MADISON, Wis. (AP) — It was the music that changed first. Or maybe that’s just when many people at the pale brick Catholic church in the quiet Wisconsin neighborhood finally began to realize what was happening.

The choir director, a fixture at St. Maria Goretti for nearly 40 years, was suddenly gone. Contemporary hymns were replaced by music rooted in medieval Europe.

So much was changing. Sermons were focusing more on sin and confession. Priests were rarely seen without cassocks. Altar girls, for a time, were banned.

At the parish elementary school, students began hearing about abortion and hell.

“It was like a step back in time,” said one former parishioner, still so dazed by the tumultuous changes that began in 2021 with a new pastor that he only spoke on condition of anonymity.

Across the U.S., the Catholic Church is undergoing an immense shift. Generations of Catholics who embraced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-religion-7033b0291ddeea9d5a5facc0d53ece0e">modernizing tide sparked in the 1960s by Vatican II</a>&nbsp;are increasingly giving way to religious conservatives who believe the church has been twisted by change, with the promise of salvation replaced by casual indifference to doctrine.

The shift, molded by plummeting church attendance, increasingly traditional priests and growing numbers of young Catholics searching for more orthodoxy, has reshaped parishes across the country, leaving them&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/catholic-bishops-unity-baltimore-meeting-bb937e3e22f2034c20184954cc9df5d6">sometimes at odds</a>&nbsp;with Pope Francis and much of the Catholic world.

The changes are not happening everywhere. There are still plenty of liberal parishes, plenty that see themselves as middle-of-the-road. Despite their growing influence, conservative Catholics remain a minority.

Yet the changes they have brought are impossible to miss.

The progressive priests who dominated the U.S. church in the years after Vatican II are now in their 70s and 80s. Many are retired. Some are dead. Younger priests, surveys show, are far more conservative.

At St. Maria Goretti, once steeped in the ethos of Vatican II, many parishioners saw the changes as a requiem.

“I don’t want my daughter to be Catholic,” said Christine Hammond, whose family left the parish when the new outlook spilled into the church’s school and her daughter’s classroom. “Not if this is the Roman Catholic Church that is coming.”

But this is not a simple story. Because there are many who welcome this new, old church.

They often stand out in the pews, with the men in ties and the women sometimes with the lace head coverings that all but disappeared from American churches more than 50 years ago. Large families signal adherence to the church’s contraception ban, which most Americans have casually ignored.

Many yearn for Masses that echo with medieval traditions – more Latin, more incense, more Gregorian chants.

“We want this ethereal experience that is different from everything else in our lives,” said Ben Rouleau, who until recently led St. Maria Goretti’s young adult group, which saw membership skyrocket even as the parish shrank amid the turmoil.

If this movement emerged from anywhere, it might be a now-demolished Denver football stadium.

Some 500,000 people descended on Denver in 1993 for the Catholic festival World Youth Day.

<a href="https://apnews.com/18f1705cf56b44f199f1183fb46e6af6">Pope John Paul II</a>, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-0885152155e64cf59209d4f77b828560">beloved</a>&nbsp;both for his kindness and his sternness, confronted an American church shaped by decades of progressive change.

The church had grown increasingly liberal since Vatican II. Confession was rarely mentioned, Latin largely abandoned. Catholic social teaching on poverty suffused churches.

On some issues, John Paul II agreed with liberal-minded Catholics, speaking against capital punishment and for workers’ rights. He preached relentlessly about forgiveness.

Catholics “are in danger of losing their faith,” he said in Denver, decrying abortion, drug abuse, and what he called “sexual disorders.”

Across the nation, fervent young Catholics listened.

Yet even today, surveys show most American Catholics are far from orthodox. Most support abortion rights. The vast majority use birth control.

But increasingly, those&nbsp;<a href="https://projects.apnews.com/features/2023/the-nones/the-nones-us.html">Catholics</a>&nbsp;are not in church.

In 1970, more than half of America’s Catholics said they went to Mass at least once a week. By 2022, that had fallen to 17%, according to CARA, a research center affiliated with Georgetown University. Among millennials, it’s just 9%.

As a result, those who remain in the church have outsized influence.

On the national level, conservatives increasingly dominate the U.S. Catholic Bishops Conference and the Catholic intellectual world. They include everyone from the philanthropist founder of Domino’s Pizza to six of the nine U.S. Supreme Court justices.

Young priests driven by liberal politics and progressive theology, so common in the 1960s and 70s, have all but vanished.

In churches from Minnesota to California, liberal parishioners have protested changes introduced by new conservative priests. Each can seem like one more skirmish in the cultural and political battles tearing at America.

Looming above the American divide is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-pope-birthday-trial-21da45380cf0890dd2bd5ce6c33f0fcf">Pope</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-trial-pope-critique-becciu-3cee6a7f78070e590c5e90f31d56d52d">Francis</a>, who has pushed the global church to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-gay-rights-ap-interview-1359756ae22f27f87c1d4d6b9c8ce212">inclusive</a>, even as he stands firm on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-women-still-cant-be-priest-3bdcad94325be16ee2993f61eb17c5a0">dogma</a>.

The orthodox movement has watched him nervously, angered by his more liberal views on issues like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-lgbtq-pope-bfa5b71fa79055626e362936e739d1d8">gay relationships</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-43eeaafd67e2429a8fb617e4261db5a4">divorce</a>. Some reject him entirely.

And the pope&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-cardinal-burke-conservatives-strickland-163f2d3522a80fa5f908421cc812cfc9">worries</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/catholic-us-bishops-lgbtq-women-pope-francis-81a602274dd604b7cc532425a289b00c">about</a>&nbsp;America.

The U.S. church has “a very strong reactionary attitude,” he said last year.

St. Maria Goretti is a well-kept island of Catholicism tucked into one of America’s most liberal cities.

In 2021, a new priest, the Rev. Scott Emerson, was named pastor.

Parishioners watched the changes - some pleased, some uneasily. Emerson’s sermons are not all fire-and-brimstone. He speaks often about forgiveness and compassion. But his tone shocked many longtime parishioners.

Protection is needed, he said in a 2023 service, from “the spiritual corruption of worldly vices.” He has warned against critics – “the atheists, journalists, politicians, the fallen-away Catholics” – he said were undermining the church.

But those critics, he says, will be proven wrong.

“How many have laughed at the church, announcing that she was passe, that her days were over and that they would bury her?” he said in a 2021 Mass.

“The church,” he said, “has buried every one of her undertakers.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714878214376.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM SULLIVANMADISON, Wis. (AP) — It was the music that changed first. Or maybe that’s just when many people at the pale brick Catholic church in the quiet Wisconsin neighborhood finally began to realize what was happening.The choir director, a fixture at St. Maria Goretti for nearly 40 years, was suddenly gone. Contemporary hymns were replaced by music rooted in medieval Europe.So much was changing. Sermons were focusing more on sin and confession. Priests were rarely seen without cassocks. Altar girls, for a time, were banned.At the parish elementary school, students began hearing about abortion and hell.“It was like a step back in time,” said one former parishioner, still so dazed by the tumultuous changes that began in 2021 with a new pastor that he only spoke on condition of anonymity.It’s not just St. Maria Goretti.Across the U.S., the Catholic Church is undergoing an immense shift. Generations of Catholics who embraced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-religion-7033b0291ddeea9d5a5facc0d53ece0e">modernizing tide sparked in the 1960s by Vatican II</a>&nbsp;are increasingly giving way to religious conservatives who believe the church has been twisted by change, with the promise of salvation replaced by casual indifference to doctrine.The shift, molded by plummeting church attendance, increasingly traditional priests and growing numbers of young Catholics searching for more orthodoxy, has reshaped parishes across the country, leaving them&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/catholic-bishops-unity-baltimore-meeting-bb937e3e22f2034c20184954cc9df5d6">sometimes at odds</a>&nbsp;with Pope Francis and much of the Catholic world.The changes are not happening everywhere. There are still plenty of liberal parishes, plenty that see themselves as middle-of-the-road. Despite their growing influence, conservative Catholics remain a minority.Yet the changes they have brought are impossible to miss.The progressive priests who dominated the U.S. church in the years after Vatican II are now in their 70s and 80s. Many are retired. Some are dead. Younger priests, surveys show, are far more conservative.At St. Maria Goretti, once steeped in the ethos of Vatican II, many parishioners saw the changes as a requiem.“I don’t want my daughter to be Catholic,” said Christine Hammond, whose family left the parish when the new outlook spilled into the church’s school and her daughter’s classroom. “Not if this is the Roman Catholic Church that is coming.”But this is not a simple story. Because there are many who welcome this new, old church.They often stand out in the pews, with the men in ties and the women sometimes with the lace head coverings that all but disappeared from American churches more than 50 years ago. Large families signal adherence to the church’s contraception ban, which most Americans have casually ignored.Many yearn for Masses that echo with medieval traditions – more Latin, more incense, more Gregorian chants.“We want this ethereal experience that is different from everything else in our lives,” said Ben Rouleau, who until recently led St. Maria Goretti’s young adult group, which saw membership skyrocket even as the parish shrank amid the turmoil.___If this movement emerged from anywhere, it might be a now-demolished Denver football stadium.Some 500,000 people descended on Denver in 1993 for the Catholic festival World Youth Day.<a href="https://apnews.com/18f1705cf56b44f199f1183fb46e6af6">Pope John Paul II</a>, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-0885152155e64cf59209d4f77b828560">beloved</a>&nbsp;both for his kindness and his sternness, confronted an American church shaped by decades of progressive change.The church had grown increasingly liberal since Vatican II. Confession was rarely mentioned, Latin largely abandoned. Catholic social teaching on poverty suffused churches.On some issues, John Paul II agreed with liberal-minded Catholics, speaking against capital punishment and for workers’ rights. He preached relentlessly about forgiveness.But he was uncompromising on dogma.Catholics “are in danger of losing their faith,” he said in Denver, decrying abortion, drug abuse, and what he called “sexual disorders.”Across the nation, fervent young Catholics listened.Yet even today, surveys show most American Catholics are far from orthodox. Most support abortion rights. The vast majority use birth control.But increasingly, those&nbsp;<a href="https://projects.apnews.com/features/2023/the-nones/the-nones-us.html">Catholics</a>&nbsp;are not in church.In 1970, more than half of America’s Catholics said they went to Mass at least once a week. By 2022, that had fallen to 17%, according to CARA, a research center affiliated with Georgetown University. Among millennials, it’s just 9%.As a result, those who remain in the church have outsized influence.On the national level, conservatives increasingly dominate the U.S. Catholic Bishops Conference and the Catholic intellectual world. They include everyone from the philanthropist founder of Domino’s Pizza to six of the nine U.S. Supreme Court justices.Then there’s the priesthood.Young priests driven by liberal politics and progressive theology, so common in the 1960s and 70s, have all but vanished.In churches from Minnesota to California, liberal parishioners have protested changes introduced by new conservative priests. Each can seem like one more skirmish in the cultural and political battles tearing at America.Looming above the American divide is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-pope-birthday-trial-21da45380cf0890dd2bd5ce6c33f0fcf">Pope</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-trial-pope-critique-becciu-3cee6a7f78070e590c5e90f31d56d52d">Francis</a>, who has pushed the global church to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-gay-rights-ap-interview-1359756ae22f27f87c1d4d6b9c8ce212">inclusive</a>, even as he stands firm on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-women-still-cant-be-priest-3bdcad94325be16ee2993f61eb17c5a0">dogma</a>.The orthodox movement has watched him nervously, angered by his more liberal views on issues like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-lgbtq-pope-bfa5b71fa79055626e362936e739d1d8">gay relationships</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-43eeaafd67e2429a8fb617e4261db5a4">divorce</a>. Some reject him entirely.And the pope&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-cardinal-burke-conservatives-strickland-163f2d3522a80fa5f908421cc812cfc9">worries</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/catholic-us-bishops-lgbtq-women-pope-francis-81a602274dd604b7cc532425a289b00c">about</a>&nbsp;America.The U.S. church has “a very strong reactionary attitude,” he said last year.St. Maria Goretti is a well-kept island of Catholicism tucked into one of America’s most liberal cities.In 2021, a new priest, the Rev. Scott Emerson, was named pastor.Parishioners watched the changes - some pleased, some uneasily. Emerson’s sermons are not all fire-and-brimstone. He speaks often about forgiveness and compassion. But his tone shocked many longtime parishioners.Protection is needed, he said in a 2023 service, from “the spiritual corruption of worldly vices.” He has warned against critics – “the atheists, journalists, politicians, the fallen-away Catholics” – he said were undermining the church.But those critics, he says, will be proven wrong.“How many have laughed at the church, announcing that she was passe, that her days were over and that they would bury her?” he said in a 2021 Mass.“The church,” he said, “has buried every one of her undertakers.”

Step back in time: America's Catholic Church sees shift toward the old ways

WICHITA —A $418,197.00 default judgment was entered against a local car dealer for engaging in deceptive acts and willfully violating a&nbsp; previous consent judgment under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA), according to a statement from the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.

The matter was investigated by the Office of the District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division after receiving a consumer complaint against Carnation LLC, located at 1301 E. Lincoln.

It’s alleged Carnation LLC violated the KCPA by failing to disclose that a car had blown airbags before selling it to the consumer. The consumer later found an airbag simulator device installed in the car which disabled the airbag light on the dash, concealing the fact that the airbag had been deployed. Further investigation by the Consumer Protection Division found 12 more cars sold by Carnation LLC in the first quarter of 2023 alone with blown airbags that were not replaced. 

Carnation failed to disclose these blown airbags when selling the cars to consumers.&nbsp; In 2019, Carnation LLC entered into a consent judgment with the Consumer Protection Division in which it admitted to a deceptive act for failing to disclose a blown airbag on a car. The Court found that the sale of each of the 13 cars in the current case with undisclosed and concealed blown airbags constituted willful violations of the 2019 consent judgment and the KCPA.

The court ordered Carnation LLC to pay $2,000.00 per car in restitution to each of 12 consumers for a total of $24,000.00. One consumer has received restitution. Carnation was ordered to pay $390,000.00 in civil penalties, as well as court costs and investigation fees. The court also revoked Carnation LLC’s license to do business in the State of Kansas and issued a permanent injunction against Carnation LLC from selling any motor vehicles within the State of Kansas.

The District Attorney reminds car buyers to exercise care when shopping for a used vehicle. Devices can be used to conceal that a car is missing functioning airbags, even if inspected by a mechanic. It is important to also examine a Carfax or similar history of the vehicle before purchase to identify crashes that may have resulted in the deployment of airbags. In addition, it is recommended that the consumer perform a general online search of the VIN number of a prospective car purchase, which can often reveal photos of prior damage to the car.

The default judgment was ordered on April 25, 2024 by Judge William Woolley. The case was investigated by Kristen Zluticky of the District Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714683742766.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —A $418,197.00 default judgment was entered against a local car dealer for engaging in deceptive acts and willfully violating a&nbsp; previous consent judgment under the Kansas Consumer Protection Act (KCPA), according to a statement from the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.The matter was investigated by the Office of the District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division after receiving a consumer complaint against Carnation LLC, located at 1301 E. Lincoln.It’s alleged Carnation LLC violated the KCPA by failing to disclose that a car had blown airbags before selling it to the consumer. The consumer later found an airbag simulator device installed in the car which disabled the airbag light on the dash, concealing the fact that the airbag had been deployed. Further investigation by the Consumer Protection Division found 12 more cars sold by Carnation LLC in the first quarter of 2023 alone with blown airbags that were not replaced. Carnation failed to disclose these blown airbags when selling the cars to consumers.&nbsp; In 2019, Carnation LLC entered into a consent judgment with the Consumer Protection Division in which it admitted to a deceptive act for failing to disclose a blown airbag on a car. The Court found that the sale of each of the 13 cars in the current case with undisclosed and concealed blown airbags constituted willful violations of the 2019 consent judgment and the KCPA.The court ordered Carnation LLC to pay $2,000.00 per car in restitution to each of 12 consumers for a total of $24,000.00. One consumer has received restitution. Carnation was ordered to pay $390,000.00 in civil penalties, as well as court costs and investigation fees. The court also revoked Carnation LLC’s license to do business in the State of Kansas and issued a permanent injunction against Carnation LLC from selling any motor vehicles within the State of Kansas.The District Attorney reminds car buyers to exercise care when shopping for a used vehicle. Devices can be used to conceal that a car is missing functioning airbags, even if inspected by a mechanic. It is important to also examine a Carfax or similar history of the vehicle before purchase to identify crashes that may have resulted in the deployment of airbags. In addition, it is recommended that the consumer perform a general online search of the VIN number of a prospective car purchase, which can often reveal photos of prior damage to the car.The default judgment was ordered on April 25, 2024 by Judge William Woolley. The case was investigated by Kristen Zluticky of the District Attorney’s Office.

Kan. car dealer to pay over $400K for not disclosing blown air bags to customers

WASHINGTON (AP) — A bipartisan group of senators including Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall is pushing for restrictions on the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/factsheets/facial-recognition-technology">facial recognition technology</a>&nbsp;by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tsa.gov/">Transportation Security Administration</a>, saying they are concerned about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/facial-recognition-airport-screening-tsa-d8b6397c02afe16602c8d34409d1451f">travelers' privacy and civil liberties</a>.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024_05_02_LTR-TSA-Freeze-to-Leadership.pdf">a letter</a>&nbsp;on Thursday, the group of 14 lawmakers called on Senate leaders to use the upcoming reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration as a vehicle to limit TSA's use of the technology so Congress can put in place some oversight.

"This technology poses significant threats to our privacy and civil liberties, and Congress should prohibit TSA’s development and deployment of facial recognition tools until rigorous congressional oversight occurs," the senators wrote.

The effort, led by Marshall and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeff-merkley">Sens. Jeff Merkley</a>&nbsp;D-Oregon and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/john-kennedy">John Kennedy</a>, R-Louisiana "would halt facial recognition technology at security checkpoints, which has proven to improve security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience,” TSA said in a statement.

The technology is currently in use at 84 airports around the country and is planned to expand in the coming years to the roughly 430 covered by TSA.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-aviation-safety-bill-faa-3bed07b5384105e1c168afb10a369eed">The FAA reauthorization</a>&nbsp;is one of the last must-pass bills of this Congress. The agency regulates airlines and aircraft manufacturers and manages the nation’s airspace.

TSA, which is part of the Homeland Security Department, has been rolling out the facial recognition technology at select airports in a pilot project. Travelers put their driver’s license into a slot that reads the card or they place their passport photo against a card reader. Then they look at a camera on a screen about the size of an iPad that captures their image and compares it to their ID. The technology is checking to make sure that travelers at the airport match the ID they present and that the identification is real. A TSA officer signs off on the screening.

The agency says the system improves accuracy of identity verification without slowing passenger speeds at checkpoints.

Passengers can opt out, although David Pekoske, the TSA administrator,&nbsp;<a href="https://schedule.sxsw.com/2023/events/PP1143589">said last year</a>&nbsp;that eventually biometrics would be required because they are more effective and efficient. He gave no timeline.

Critics have raised questions about how the data is collected, who has access to it, and what happens if there is a hack. Privacy advocates are concerned about possible bias in the algorithms and say it is not clear enough to passengers that they do not have to submit to facial recognition.

“It is clear that we are at a critical juncture," the senators wrote. “The scope of the government’s use of facial recognition on Americans will expand exponentially under TSA’s plans with little to no public discourse or congressional oversight.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714667791318.png" alt="Photo Transportation Security Administration" />
 <figcaption>Photo Transportation Security Administration</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A bipartisan group of senators including Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall is pushing for restrictions on the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/factsheets/facial-recognition-technology">facial recognition technology</a>&nbsp;by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tsa.gov/">Transportation Security Administration</a>, saying they are concerned about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/facial-recognition-airport-screening-tsa-d8b6397c02afe16602c8d34409d1451f">travelers' privacy and civil liberties</a>.In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.merkley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024_05_02_LTR-TSA-Freeze-to-Leadership.pdf">a letter</a>&nbsp;on Thursday, the group of 14 lawmakers called on Senate leaders to use the upcoming reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration as a vehicle to limit TSA's use of the technology so Congress can put in place some oversight."This technology poses significant threats to our privacy and civil liberties, and Congress should prohibit TSA’s development and deployment of facial recognition tools until rigorous congressional oversight occurs," the senators wrote.The effort, led by Marshall and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeff-merkley">Sens. Jeff Merkley</a>&nbsp;D-Oregon and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/john-kennedy">John Kennedy</a>, R-Louisiana "would halt facial recognition technology at security checkpoints, which has proven to improve security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience,” TSA said in a statement.The technology is currently in use at 84 airports around the country and is planned to expand in the coming years to the roughly 430 covered by TSA.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-aviation-safety-bill-faa-3bed07b5384105e1c168afb10a369eed">The FAA reauthorization</a>&nbsp;is one of the last must-pass bills of this Congress. The agency regulates airlines and aircraft manufacturers and manages the nation’s airspace.TSA, which is part of the Homeland Security Department, has been rolling out the facial recognition technology at select airports in a pilot project. Travelers put their driver’s license into a slot that reads the card or they place their passport photo against a card reader. Then they look at a camera on a screen about the size of an iPad that captures their image and compares it to their ID. The technology is checking to make sure that travelers at the airport match the ID they present and that the identification is real. A TSA officer signs off on the screening.The agency says the system improves accuracy of identity verification without slowing passenger speeds at checkpoints.Passengers can opt out, although David Pekoske, the TSA administrator,&nbsp;<a href="https://schedule.sxsw.com/2023/events/PP1143589">said last year</a>&nbsp;that eventually biometrics would be required because they are more effective and efficient. He gave no timeline.Critics have raised questions about how the data is collected, who has access to it, and what happens if there is a hack. Privacy advocates are concerned about possible bias in the algorithms and say it is not clear enough to passengers that they do not have to submit to facial recognition.“It is clear that we are at a critical juncture," the senators wrote. “The scope of the government’s use of facial recognition on Americans will expand exponentially under TSA’s plans with little to no public discourse or congressional oversight.”

Kan. Senator wants to limit facial recognition technology for airport screening

WASHINGTON (AP) — A driver died after a vehicle crashed into an outer perimeter gate of the White House complex, and the incident late Saturday was being investigated as a traffic crash, police said. President Joe Biden was spending the weekend in Delaware, and the Secret Service said there was no threat to the White House.

The male driver, who was not immediately identified, was found dead in the vehicle following the crash shortly before 10:30 p.m., according to a Secret Service statement.

The Metropolitan Police Department said the vehicle crashed into a security barrier at the intersection of 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Police were called to the scene at 10:46 p.m. and said one adult male was pronounced dead from the crash into a security barrier around the complex.

The Secret Service said security protocols were put in place and that there was no threat to the White House. The Secret Service and police will continue to investigate.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A driver died after a vehicle crashed into an outer perimeter gate of the White House complex, and the incident late Saturday was being investigated as a traffic crash, police said. President Joe Biden was spending the weekend in Delaware, and the Secret Service said there was no threat to the White House.The male driver, who was not immediately identified, was found dead in the vehicle following the crash shortly before 10:30 p.m., according to a Secret Service statement.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Limited traffic closures remain in effect as Secret Service teams, <a href="https://twitter.com/dcfireems?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dcfireems</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/DCPoliceDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCPoliceDept</a> investigate a fatal vehicle crash that occurred at an exterior perimeter gate by the White House. There is no threat or public safety implications and our preliminary statement is below <a href="https://t.co/zGTVDuZV5E">pic.twitter.com/zGTVDuZV5E</a>&mdash; Anthony Guglielmi (@SecretSvcSpox) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/1786972886915309885?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Metropolitan Police Department said the vehicle crashed into a security barrier at the intersection of 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Police were called to the scene at 10:46 p.m. and said one adult male was pronounced dead from the crash into a security barrier around the complex.The Secret Service said security protocols were put in place and that there was no threat to the White House. The Secret Service and police will continue to investigate.

Driver dies after crash into a security barrier around the White House complex

SEDGWICK COUNT—A suspect charged in a crash that killed a Kansas woman is out of jail.&nbsp;

&nbsp;On April 18, Austin Hedges, 24, Greeley, Colorado, was charged with reckless involuntary manslaughter and arrested in Colorado, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. On April 30, Hedges was extradited from Colorado and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online booking records.

On March 16, a vehicle driven by Hedges was northbound on Rock Road in Wichita and struck a vehicle driven by 82-year-old Kathy Knorr who was turning from Killarney Court onto southbound Rock Road, according to Wichita Police.

EMS transported Knorr to a local hospital. She died on March 30.&nbsp; Hedges met the conditions of a $100,000 bond for his release from jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714590780723.png" alt="Hedges-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Hedges-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNT—A suspect charged in a crash that killed a Kansas woman is out of jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;On April 18, Austin Hedges, 24, Greeley, Colorado, was charged with reckless involuntary manslaughter and arrested in Colorado, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. On April 30, Hedges was extradited from Colorado and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail, according to online booking records.On March 16, a vehicle driven by Hedges was northbound on Rock Road in Wichita and struck a vehicle driven by 82-year-old Kathy Knorr who was turning from Killarney Court onto southbound Rock Road, according to Wichita Police.EMS transported Knorr to a local hospital. She died on March 30.&nbsp; Hedges met the conditions of a $100,000 bond for his release from jail.&nbsp;

Man charged in crash that killed Kansas woman is out of jail

Topeka Correctional Facility inmate 36-year-old Asa Hashanna Adams&nbsp; died Saturday, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

She was found unresponsive in her living unit Saturday morning. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued after emergency medical services arrived. Adams was pronounced deceased by medical staff.&nbsp; The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

Adams was serving a life sentence for a conviction of first-degree murder committed in Sedgwick County, Kansas.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714856447685.png" alt="Adams-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Adams-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka Correctional Facility inmate 36-year-old Asa Hashanna Adams&nbsp; died Saturday, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections.She was found unresponsive in her living unit Saturday morning. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued after emergency medical services arrived. Adams was pronounced deceased by medical staff.&nbsp; The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.Adams was serving a life sentence for a conviction of first-degree murder committed in Sedgwick County, Kansas.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

36-year-old woman serving time for murder dies in Kan. prison

KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County jury on Wednesday convicted a Kansas City man in the August 2022 fatal shooting following an argument in Blue Hills Park in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

The jury found Timothy Green, dob: 12/15/1962, guilty of the following criminal charges: Murder 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.

Green will be sentenced June 28 by a Jackson County judge.

According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched on Aug. 18, 2022, to the area of 53rd and Brooklyn Avenue in Blue Hills Park on a reported shooting. Officers found the victim, later identified as Leslie Taylor. He was deceased from a gunshot. Witnesses told police they saw the defendant shoot the victim. One witness stated the victim and defendant had been in an argument. The defendant told police that the victim had been following and harassing him for weeks. A witness told police the victim was not known to carry a gun.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714661663277.png" alt="Green-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Green-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County jury on Wednesday convicted a Kansas City man in the August 2022 fatal shooting following an argument in Blue Hills Park in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.The jury found Timothy Green, dob: 12/15/1962, guilty of the following criminal charges: Murder 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.Green will be sentenced June 28 by a Jackson County judge.According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched on Aug. 18, 2022, to the area of 53rd and Brooklyn Avenue in Blue Hills Park on a reported shooting. Officers found the victim, later identified as Leslie Taylor. He was deceased from a gunshot. Witnesses told police they saw the defendant shoot the victim. One witness stated the victim and defendant had been in an argument. The defendant told police that the victim had been following and harassing him for weeks. A witness told police the victim was not known to carry a gun.

Jury: Man guilty of murder during argument

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 11:30p.m. April 30, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2016 Toyota Camry for a traffic infraction near U.S. Highway 75 and Columbine Drive north of Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 During the traffic stop, a Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the odor of illegal narcotics inside the vehicle.&nbsp; During the search of the vehicle, approx. 3.7 ounces of methamphetamine, a hallucinogenic drug, drug paraphernalia and a firearm were located.

The driver, Thomas Len Myers, 35, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal use of weapons and criminal possession of weapon by felon

The passenger, Rashad Kamen Holloway, 35, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Holloway was also arrested for a felony warrant out of Geary Co, Kansas for a probation violation stemming from a previous distribution of methamphetamine charge from 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714745661486.png" alt="Holloway-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Holloway-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 11:30p.m. April 30, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2016 Toyota Camry for a traffic infraction near U.S. Highway 75 and Columbine Drive north of Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the traffic stop, a Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the odor of illegal narcotics inside the vehicle.&nbsp; During the search of the vehicle, approx. 3.7 ounces of methamphetamine, a hallucinogenic drug, drug paraphernalia and a firearm were located.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714745640569.png" alt="Myers photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Myers photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, Thomas Len Myers, 35, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal use of weapons and criminal possession of weapon by felonThe passenger, Rashad Kamen Holloway, 35, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.Holloway was also arrested for a felony warrant out of Geary Co, Kansas for a probation violation stemming from a previous distribution of methamphetamine charge from 2022.

Two Kansas men accused of selling methamphetamine

RENO COOUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent attack on a woman and have made an arrest.

Just before 5 p.m.,&nbsp; Friday, police were dispatched to a residence in the 1300 block of North Arthur in Hutchinson for a stabbing, according to a media release from police.

First responders located a woman with life threatening injuries. The victim was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and later to a Wichita hospital where she remains in serious, but stable condition.

A suspect was identified and at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Saturday,&nbsp; Joseph D. Castorena, 41, of Hutchinson, was arrested for Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Sexual Battery, and Parole Violation.

Castorena has previous convictions for robbery. counterfeiting, aggravated battery, aiding a felon, criminal possession of firearm and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714856836546.png" alt="Castorena photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Castorena photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COOUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent attack on a woman and have made an arrest.Just before 5 p.m.,&nbsp; Friday, police were dispatched to a residence in the 1300 block of North Arthur in Hutchinson for a stabbing, according to a media release from police.First responders located a woman with life threatening injuries. The victim was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and later to a Wichita hospital where she remains in serious, but stable condition.A suspect was identified and at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Saturday,&nbsp; Joseph D. Castorena, 41, of Hutchinson, was arrested for Attempted Murder in the Second Degree, Sexual Battery, and Parole Violation.Castorena has previous convictions for robbery. counterfeiting, aggravated battery, aiding a felon, criminal possession of firearm and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. man with history of violent crime jailed for alleged attack on a woman

TOPEKA —As the Kansas Highway Patrol closed out Distracted Driving Awareness Month this week, they shared a video to remind drivers to pay attention to the roadway at all times.

  There may be something in the roadway that you would not otherwise be able to avoid, or another driver that comes into your lane.  Looking at your phone while driving is like driving blind. 

The Motorist Assist Technician struck in this video was okay and there were no serious injuries. The KHP technician was in the roadway with his emergency lights on, his sign board was activated, and all vehicles were properly yielding until he was struck.

"Put the cell phone away, focus on the roadway, and together we can ensure all motorists make it to their destinations safely. "

TOPEKA —As the Kansas Highway Patrol closed out Distracted Driving Awareness Month this week, they shared a video to remind drivers to pay attention to the roadway at all times.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FkshighwayPatrol%2Fvideos%2F7382306725191820%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=19" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div> There may be something in the roadway that you would not otherwise be able to avoid, or another driver that comes into your lane. Looking at your phone while driving is like driving blind. The Motorist Assist Technician struck in this video was okay and there were no serious injuries. The KHP technician was in the roadway with his emergency lights on, his sign board was activated, and all vehicles were properly yielding until he was struck."Put the cell phone away, focus on the roadway, and together we can ensure all motorists make it to their destinations safely. "

🎥KHP: Crash is another reminder of distracted driving

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Students speak of solidarity with victims of Israeli military campaign in Gaza

LAWRENCE — The drum beat of pro-Palestinian sentiment heard for two days on flower-dappled lawns and in academic buildings at the University of Kansas didn’t resume Friday as students apparently turned their attention to immediate challenges of final examinations.

There was no colorful protest banner displayed next to Fraser Hall where demonstrators took up station Wednesday to dramatize objections to the human and infrastructure toll of Israel’s overwhelming military assault on Gaza. The Israeli siege was a response to Hamas’ lethal incursion into border towns in October. On-campus supporters of Israel, who wrapped themselves in the nation’s Star of David flag, also took a day off.

Absent were the unequivocal messages demanding action to “Free Palestine,” “Let Gaza Live,” “End the Occupation” and “Stop the Genocide.” The quest to erect a tent village comparable to centers of protest at campuses elsewhere was thwarted by KU policy forbidding overnight camping. Strong Hall, a campus landmark on Jayhawk Boulevard, no longer served as a magnet for protesters. It reverted to its role as a place of quiet, plodding administrative activity.

It was calm enough that Cole Bruening, a graduate teaching assistant in the Department of Philosophy, brought this dog, Shep, to Wescoe Hall in an attempt to teach the energetic canine to embrace the art of sitting still. He was, of course, aware of student demonstrations about Israel-Gaza fighting, but he chose not to participate.

“I don’t think much about that,” he said. “I know it’s a sensitive subject.”

Members of Students for Justice in Palestine at KU had issued a set of demands, which apparently didn’t warrant a public response from KU administrators.

The protesters, representing students, faculty and staff as well as other Lawrence residents, called for KU to disclose and divest of financial interests in the Israeli government. They issued a plea for KU to stop accepting grants from the U.S. Department of Defense. On Friday, KU announced it ranked fifth nationally among top research universities in the annual survey of military friendly schools.

The last request of demonstrators, who may return to action Monday, was that KU respect their First Amendment rights of free speech and to “grant amnesty” for conduct that might land them in trouble.

Republican U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, of the 1st District stretching from Colorado to Lawrence, said protests on American campuses were being led by “ill-informed mobs who believe that Hamas, a terrorist organization, is good for the people of Gaza.”

“It could not be further from the truth,” he said. “We are watching the rot of of antisemitism stain our American colleges and universities.”

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, a Republican and former University of Missouri-Kansas City law professor, said KU shouldn’t side with “antisemitic terrorists” supportive of the Palestinian cause of independence. In a letter distributed by Kobach, he said the Kansas Board of Regents and KU Chancellor Doug Girod should enforce rules and regulations to prevent disruption of the university’s educational mission.

Kobach used fiery rhetoric while asserting Kansas law prohibited KU from meeting demands of “pro-Hamas” protesters. For example, he said, state law forbid the university from making procurement or investment decisions that amounted to a boycott of the government of Israel.

“As is often the case with uninformed, petulant loudmouths,” Kobach said in a rebuke of picketers, “they have not done their research. And their views are reprehensible.”

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican and graduate of KU’s medical school, said university protests were a glimpse of what would occur if “we let the woke mob win” the presidential campaign between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump in November.

“Joe Biden wants to give refugee status to thousands of Palestinians in Gaza — the same people who shout death to America,” Marshall said. “Why are the university presidents and this president turning their heads away from the violent crimes that are going on? Why is this president wanting to bring in tens of thousands, maybe hundreds of thousands of refugees from Gaza?”

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican who earned undergraduate and law degrees at KU, urged U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to use their influence to restore order on campuses effectively shut down by antisemitic groups.

“School administrators’ failure to protect Jewish students from discrimination and harassment violates federal law and is grounds for those schools losing access to federal funds,” Moran said. “Espousing support for terrorists such as Hamas violates federal immigration law and is grounds for deportation.”

U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, the Kansas Republican serving the 4th District around Wichita, echoed that sentiment. He said the volume of federal tax dollars funneled to universities and colleges in the United States meant campus administrators had a duty to provide “a safe and secure environment for college students to learn from.”

Rep. Jake LaTurner, the 2nd District Republican who announced he wouldn’t seek reelection in November, said violent antisemitic protests in the United States served interests of Hamas terrorists who “brutally raped, kidnapped and murdered thousands of innocent Israelis on October 7.”

“I stand with Jewish students across the country and fully support our great ally Israel’s right to protect and defend their freedom,” LaTurner said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714832599190.png" alt=" After two days of pro-Palestinian protests at the University of Kansas, the campus in Lawrence on Friday took on the feel of a sober, mundane summer day. The rhetoric of Kansas politicians who denounced the demonstrators was red hot. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> After two days of pro-Palestinian protests at the University of Kansas, the campus in Lawrence on Friday took on the feel of a sober, mundane summer day. The rhetoric of Kansas politicians who denounced the demonstrators was red hot. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>Students speak of solidarity with victims of Israeli military campaign in Gaza</h2>LAWRENCE — The drum beat of pro-Palestinian sentiment heard for two days on flower-dappled lawns and in academic buildings at the University of Kansas didn’t resume Friday as students apparently turned their attention to immediate challenges of final examinations.There was no colorful protest banner displayed next to Fraser Hall where demonstrators took up station Wednesday to dramatize objections to the human and infrastructure toll of Israel’s overwhelming military assault on Gaza. The Israeli siege was a response to Hamas’ lethal incursion into border towns in October. On-campus supporters of Israel, who wrapped themselves in the nation’s Star of David flag, also took a day off.Absent were the unequivocal messages demanding action to “Free Palestine,” “Let Gaza Live,” “End the Occupation” and “Stop the Genocide.” The quest to erect a tent village comparable to centers of protest at campuses elsewhere was thwarted by KU policy forbidding overnight camping. Strong Hall, a campus landmark on Jayhawk Boulevard, no longer served as a magnet for protesters. It reverted to its role as a place of quiet, plodding administrative activity.It was calm enough that Cole Bruening, a graduate teaching assistant in the Department of Philosophy, brought this dog, Shep, to Wescoe Hall in an attempt to teach the energetic canine to embrace the art of sitting still. He was, of course, aware of student demonstrations about Israel-Gaza fighting, but he chose not to participate.“I don’t think much about that,” he said. “I know it’s a sensitive subject.”Members of Students for Justice in Palestine at KU had issued a set of demands, which apparently didn’t warrant a public response from KU administrators.The protesters, representing students, faculty and staff as well as other Lawrence residents, called for KU to disclose and divest of financial interests in the Israeli government. They issued a plea for KU to stop accepting grants from the U.S. Department of Defense. On Friday, KU announced it ranked fifth nationally among top research universities in the annual survey of military friendly schools.The last request of demonstrators, who may return to action Monday, was that KU respect their First Amendment rights of free speech and to “grant amnesty” for conduct that might land them in trouble.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714832550264.png" alt=" Cole Bruening, a graduate teaching assistant in the University of Kansas philosophy department, was on campus Friday with is dog, Shep. They had the plaza at Wescoe Hall to themselves because pro-Palestinian protesters took Friday off after two days of activism. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Cole Bruening, a graduate teaching assistant in the University of Kansas philosophy department, was on campus Friday with is dog, Shep. They had the plaza at Wescoe Hall to themselves because pro-Palestinian protesters took Friday off after two days of activism. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘Twisted thinking’</h2>Republican U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, of the 1st District stretching from Colorado to Lawrence, said protests on American campuses were being led by “ill-informed mobs who believe that Hamas, a terrorist organization, is good for the people of Gaza.”“It could not be further from the truth,” he said. “We are watching the rot of of antisemitism stain our American colleges and universities.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">KU has many hallowed traditions, but siding with antisemitic terrorists is not one of them. KU should enforce all applicable rules and regs so the edu mission of KU is not disrupted. The taxpayers of KS expect and deserve the very best from KU. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KU</a> <a href="https://t.co/AoUmjIB0Ks">https://t.co/AoUmjIB0Ks</a> <a href="https://t.co/n7GPlLxcP2">pic.twitter.com/n7GPlLxcP2</a>&mdash; Kansas AG&#39;s Office (@KSAGOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSAGOffice/status/1786194664111915265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, a Republican and former University of Missouri-Kansas City law professor, said KU shouldn’t side with “antisemitic terrorists” supportive of the Palestinian cause of independence. In a letter distributed by Kobach, he said the Kansas Board of Regents and KU Chancellor Doug Girod should enforce rules and regulations to prevent disruption of the university’s educational mission.Kobach used fiery rhetoric while asserting Kansas law prohibited KU from meeting demands of “pro-Hamas” protesters. For example, he said, state law forbid the university from making procurement or investment decisions that amounted to a boycott of the government of Israel.“As is often the case with uninformed, petulant loudmouths,” Kobach said in a rebuke of picketers, “they have not done their research. And their views are reprehensible.”U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican and graduate of KU’s medical school, said university protests were a glimpse of what would occur if “we let the woke mob win” the presidential campaign between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump in November.“Joe Biden wants to give refugee status to thousands of Palestinians in Gaza — the same people who shout death to America,” Marshall said. “Why are the university presidents and this president turning their heads away from the violent crimes that are going on? Why is this president wanting to bring in tens of thousands, maybe hundreds of thousands of refugees from Gaza?”<h2>‘Stand with Jewish students’</h2>U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican who earned undergraduate and law degrees at KU, urged U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona to use their influence to restore order on campuses effectively shut down by antisemitic groups.“School administrators’ failure to protect Jewish students from discrimination and harassment violates federal law and is grounds for those schools losing access to federal funds,” Moran said. “Espousing support for terrorists such as Hamas violates federal immigration law and is grounds for deportation.”U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, the Kansas Republican serving the 4th District around Wichita, echoed that sentiment. He said the volume of federal tax dollars funneled to universities and colleges in the United States meant campus administrators had a duty to provide “a safe and secure environment for college students to learn from.”Rep. Jake LaTurner, the 2nd District Republican who announced he wouldn’t seek reelection in November, said violent antisemitic protests in the United States served interests of Hamas terrorists who “brutally raped, kidnapped and murdered thousands of innocent Israelis on October 7.”“I stand with Jewish students across the country and fully support our great ally Israel’s right to protect and defend their freedom,” LaTurner said.

Two days of pro-Palestinian protests at KU, then resumption of regular schedule

CREVE COEUR, Mo. (AP) — A 79-year-old Missouri man is accused of killing a woman in her suburban Chicago home — a crime that happened nearly six decades ago.

James Barbier was arrested Monday at his St. Louis County home and charged with first-degree murder in the November 1966 death of 18-year-old Karen Snider in Cook County, Illinois.

The break came when police reopened the cold case and sent blood evidence to a lab in December 2022, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-courts/st-louis-county-man-charged-with-1966-chicago-killing-stabbing-woman-125-times/article_dbbe0e1e-098a-11ef-b8a5-1bd0bd09a715.html#tracking-source=mp-homepage">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reported. The blood matched Barbier's. Following his arrest, he was extradited to Cook County.

The state's attorney office said Barbier was released Thursday — prosecutors didn't seek to keep him in jail because of his age and “physical infirmity.” He is prohibited from leaving Missouri or Illinois and was required to give up his passport and firearms. He faces another court hearing May 21.

It wasn't clear if Barbier had an attorney. Phone calls to his home on Saturday went unanswered.

Snider's body was found by her husband, Paul, on the night of Nov. 12, 1966, after he came home late to their house in Calumet City, Illinois, prosecutors wrote in court documents. The couple's 2-month-old daughter was in a crib, unharmed.

Karen Snider was stabbed about 125 times, according to the medical examiner. Barbier, who worked with Paul Snider at a railroad yard, was arrested in 1966 but never charged. Authorities didn't say why.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714839995710.png" alt="Barbier- photo Calumet City PD" />
 <figcaption>Barbier- photo Calumet City PD</figcaption>
 </figure>CREVE COEUR, Mo. (AP) — A 79-year-old Missouri man is accused of killing a woman in her suburban Chicago home — a crime that happened nearly six decades ago.James Barbier was arrested Monday at his St. Louis County home and charged with first-degree murder in the November 1966 death of 18-year-old Karen Snider in Cook County, Illinois.The break came when police reopened the cold case and sent blood evidence to a lab in December 2022, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-courts/st-louis-county-man-charged-with-1966-chicago-killing-stabbing-woman-125-times/article_dbbe0e1e-098a-11ef-b8a5-1bd0bd09a715.html#tracking-source=mp-homepage">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reported. The blood matched Barbier's. Following his arrest, he was extradited to Cook County.The state's attorney office said Barbier was released Thursday — prosecutors didn't seek to keep him in jail because of his age and “physical infirmity.” He is prohibited from leaving Missouri or Illinois and was required to give up his passport and firearms. He faces another court hearing May 21.It wasn't clear if Barbier had an attorney. Phone calls to his home on Saturday went unanswered.Snider's body was found by her husband, Paul, on the night of Nov. 12, 1966, after he came home late to their house in Calumet City, Illinois, prosecutors wrote in court documents. The couple's 2-month-old daughter was in a crib, unharmed.Karen Snider was stabbed about 125 times, according to the medical examiner. Barbier, who worked with Paul Snider at a railroad yard, was arrested in 1966 but never charged. Authorities didn't say why.

Missouri man charged in 1966 killing of 18-year-old

KANSAS CITY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred just before 9;30p.m. Friday in Kansas City.

According to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina, a silver Chevy Silverado was westbound on Independence Avenue at Indiana Avenue. The pickup struck a pedestrian in the #1 lane and fled the scene, with a witness following the vehicle to another location. 

The Chevy driver returned to the scene of the crash. There is also evidence a second vehicle may have also struck the pedestrian and that vehicle fled the scene, in an unknown direction, according to Becchina. Police released no additional details early Saturday.

KANSAS CITY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred just before 9;30p.m. Friday in Kansas City.According to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina, a silver Chevy Silverado was westbound on Independence Avenue at Indiana Avenue. The pickup struck a pedestrian in the #1 lane and fled the scene, with a witness following the vehicle to another location. The Chevy driver returned to the scene of the crash. There is also evidence a second vehicle may have also struck the pedestrian and that vehicle fled the scene, in an unknown direction, according to Becchina. Police released no additional details early Saturday.

Hit-and-run: Pedestrian in KC dies after struck by 2 vehicles

WASHINGTON —On Friday, President Joe Biden presented nineteen recipients the Presidential Medal of Freedom including Former U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole during a ceremony at the White House.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.

In a statement from the White House, "Senator Elizabeth Dole has served her country as a trailblazing United States Senator, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor and President of the American Red Cross. She leads by example through her Foundation’s support for military caregivers and their families." She married Kansas native and former United States Senator Bob Dole in 1975.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The following individuals also were awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom:

Mayor Michael Bloomberg is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and three-term mayor. He revolutionized the financial information industry and transformed New York City’s education, environment, public health, and the arts.

Father Greg Boyle is a Jesuit Catholic priest who is the founder and director of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program. He has helped thousands of Angelenos turn their lives around.

Representative Jim Clyburn is the former Assistant Democratic Leader and Majority Whip in the United States House of Representatives. Through three decades in the House, Representative Clyburn has transformed the lives of millions of Americans and created a freer country.

Phil Donahue is a journalist and television pioneer who pioneered the daytime issue-oriented television talk show.&nbsp;Donahue&nbsp;was the first daytime talk show to feature audience participation and one of the most influential televisions programs of its time.

Medgar Wiley Evers&nbsp;(posthumous)

Medgar Evers (d. 1963) fought for his country in World War II and returned home to lead the fight against segregation in Mississippi. After he was murdered at his home at age 37, his wife Myrlie continued the fight to seek justice and equality in his name.

Al Gore is a former Vice President, United States Senator, and member of the House of Representatives. After winning the popular vote, he accepted the outcome of a disputed presidential election for the sake of our unity. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize jointly with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for his bold action on climate change.

Clarence B. Jones is a renowned civil rights activist and lawyer who helped draft Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Jones was instrumental in preserving Dr. King’s legacy and remains an outspoken force against hate.

Secretary John Kerry is a former Secretary of State, United States Senator, and the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. His bravery in combat during the Vietnam War earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star, and history will remember his public service career that has spanned seven decades.

Frank R. Lautenberg&nbsp;(posthumous)

Senator Frank Lautenberg (d. 2013) was a five-term United States Senator and New Jersey’s longest-serving Senator. He is remembered for his critical work on environmental protection and consumer safety across a number of fields.

Katie Ledecky is the most decorated female swimmer in history. An athletic prodigy, she has won seven Olympic gold medals and twenty-one world championship gold medals so far. She will continue to compete for the Nation who watches her in awe.

Opal Lee is an educator and activist known for her efforts to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday. More than 150 years after that day in Texas, she joined President Biden to officially make Juneteenth a national holiday in 2021.

Ellen Ochoa is the first Hispanic woman in space and the second female Director of NASA’s renowned Johnson Space Center. Dr. Ochoa has flown in space four times, logged nearly 1,000 hours in orbit, and continues to inspire young generations of scientists.

Nancy Pelosi served as the 52nd Speaker of the House and has represented San Francisco in Congress for more than 36 years. A staunch defender of democracy, she has shaped legislative agendas and Democratic priorities for decades.

Jane Rigby, an astronomer who grew up in Delaware, is the chief scientist of the world’s most powerful telescope. A prolific researcher, Dr. Rigby embodies the American spirit of adventure and wonder.

Teresa Romero is the president of the United Farm Workers and the first Latina to become president of a national union in the United States. She has secured key victories to improve the lives of the workers who feed and fuel our Nation.

Judy Shepard is the co-founder of the Matthew Shephard Foundation, an organization created in honor of her son who was murdered in one of the nation’s most notorious anti-gay hate crimes. Her work has driven tremendous progress in our fight to give hate no safe harbor.

James Francis Thorpe&nbsp;(posthumous)

Jim Thorpe (d. 1953) was the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal. The country’s original multi-sport superstar, he went on to play professional football, baseball, and basketball while breaking down barriers on and off the field.

Michelle Yeoh is an actress known for her groundbreaking work in a number of blockbusters over four decades. Recently, she became the first Asian to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. Yeoh continues to shatter stereotypes and enrich American culture.

WASHINGTON —On Friday, President Joe Biden presented nineteen recipients the Presidential Medal of Freedom including Former U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole during a ceremony at the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former Sen. Elizabeth Dole receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom. <a href="https://t.co/2WqYBfasGm">pic.twitter.com/2WqYBfasGm</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1786517168739197415?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.In a statement from the White House, "Senator Elizabeth Dole has served her country as a trailblazing United States Senator, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor and President of the American Red Cross. She leads by example through her Foundation’s support for military caregivers and their families." She married Kansas native and former United States Senator Bob Dole in 1975.&nbsp;&nbsp;The following individuals also were awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom:Michael R. BloombergMayor Michael Bloomberg is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and three-term mayor. He revolutionized the financial information industry and transformed New York City’s education, environment, public health, and the arts.Gregory J. BoyleFather Greg Boyle is a Jesuit Catholic priest who is the founder and director of Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program. He has helped thousands of Angelenos turn their lives around.James E. ClyburnRepresentative Jim Clyburn is the former Assistant Democratic Leader and Majority Whip in the United States House of Representatives. Through three decades in the House, Representative Clyburn has transformed the lives of millions of Americans and created a freer country.Phil DonahuePhil Donahue is a journalist and television pioneer who pioneered the daytime issue-oriented television talk show.&nbsp;Donahue&nbsp;was the first daytime talk show to feature audience participation and one of the most influential televisions programs of its time.Medgar Wiley Evers&nbsp;(posthumous)Medgar Evers (d. 1963) fought for his country in World War II and returned home to lead the fight against segregation in Mississippi. After he was murdered at his home at age 37, his wife Myrlie continued the fight to seek justice and equality in his name.Al GoreAl Gore is a former Vice President, United States Senator, and member of the House of Representatives. After winning the popular vote, he accepted the outcome of a disputed presidential election for the sake of our unity. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize jointly with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for his bold action on climate change.Clarence B. JonesClarence B. Jones is a renowned civil rights activist and lawyer who helped draft Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Jones was instrumental in preserving Dr. King’s legacy and remains an outspoken force against hate.John Forbes KerrySecretary John Kerry is a former Secretary of State, United States Senator, and the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. His bravery in combat during the Vietnam War earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star, and history will remember his public service career that has spanned seven decades.Frank R. Lautenberg&nbsp;(posthumous)Senator Frank Lautenberg (d. 2013) was a five-term United States Senator and New Jersey’s longest-serving Senator. He is remembered for his critical work on environmental protection and consumer safety across a number of fields.Kathleen Genevieve LedeckyKatie Ledecky is the most decorated female swimmer in history. An athletic prodigy, she has won seven Olympic gold medals and twenty-one world championship gold medals so far. She will continue to compete for the Nation who watches her in awe.Opal LeeOpal Lee is an educator and activist known for her efforts to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday. More than 150 years after that day in Texas, she joined President Biden to officially make Juneteenth a national holiday in 2021.Ellen OchoaEllen Ochoa is the first Hispanic woman in space and the second female Director of NASA’s renowned Johnson Space Center. Dr. Ochoa has flown in space four times, logged nearly 1,000 hours in orbit, and continues to inspire young generations of scientists.Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi Nancy Pelosi served as the 52nd Speaker of the House and has represented San Francisco in Congress for more than 36 years. A staunch defender of democracy, she has shaped legislative agendas and Democratic priorities for decades.Jane RigbyJane Rigby, an astronomer who grew up in Delaware, is the chief scientist of the world’s most powerful telescope. A prolific researcher, Dr. Rigby embodies the American spirit of adventure and wonder.Teresa RomeroTeresa Romero is the president of the United Farm Workers and the first Latina to become president of a national union in the United States. She has secured key victories to improve the lives of the workers who feed and fuel our Nation.Judy Shepard Judy Shepard is the co-founder of the Matthew Shephard Foundation, an organization created in honor of her son who was murdered in one of the nation’s most notorious anti-gay hate crimes. Her work has driven tremendous progress in our fight to give hate no safe harbor.James Francis Thorpe&nbsp;(posthumous)Jim Thorpe (d. 1953) was the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal. The country’s original multi-sport superstar, he went on to play professional football, baseball, and basketball while breaking down barriers on and off the field.Michelle YeohMichelle Yeoh is an actress known for her groundbreaking work in a number of blockbusters over four decades. Recently, she became the first Asian to win the Academy Award for Best Actress. Yeoh continues to shatter stereotypes and enrich American culture.

🎥 Elizabeth Dole awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly and Attorney General Kris Kobach&nbsp; honored Kansas’ fallen law enforcement officers and their families during the annual Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony on Friday.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The governor made remarks and stood with the law enforcement community to pay tribute to those who selflessly served Kansas and made the ultimate sacrifice. The 2024 Law Enforcement Memorial is a time to honor their courage and acknowledge their dedication.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714763585818.png" alt="Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly and Attorney General Kris Kobach&nbsp; honored Kansas’ fallen law enforcement officers and their families during the annual Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony on Friday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714763760670.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The governor made remarks and stood with the law enforcement community to pay tribute to those who selflessly served Kansas and made the ultimate sacrifice. The 2024 Law Enforcement Memorial is a time to honor their courage and acknowledge their dedication.

Governor, attorney general honor Kansas fallen officers, families

KANSAS CITY —A shoplifting suspect who died while in custody of the Kansas City Police Department has been identified as 46-year-old Christopher Christian.

Just after 6:30pm Thursday, two KCPD officers were working off-duty security at Walmart in the 8500 block of N Boardwalk Avenue, according to Police Captain Jake Becchina.

At that time the officers took a man later identified as Christian into custody for investigation of shoplifting. Officers escorted him to the security office. While Christian was seated in the office officers observed him attempt to swallow an unknown object.

Officers attempted to get him to spit the object out but he refused. He began to exhibit difficulty breathing and then lost consciousness.

Officers immediately began to render aid and called for EMS. Officers continued lifesaving efforts until EMS arrived and took over. EMS transported Christian to the hospital for treatment in life threatening condition.

He was later declared deceased at the hospital, according to Becchina. Police released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —A shoplifting suspect who died while in custody of the Kansas City Police Department has been identified as 46-year-old Christopher Christian.Just after 6:30pm Thursday, two KCPD officers were working off-duty security at Walmart in the 8500 block of N Boardwalk Avenue, according to Police Captain Jake Becchina.At that time the officers took a man later identified as Christian into custody for investigation of shoplifting. Officers escorted him to the security office. While Christian was seated in the office officers observed him attempt to swallow an unknown object.Officers attempted to get him to spit the object out but he refused. He began to exhibit difficulty breathing and then lost consciousness.Officers immediately began to render aid and called for EMS. Officers continued lifesaving efforts until EMS arrived and took over. EMS transported Christian to the hospital for treatment in life threatening condition.He was later declared deceased at the hospital, according to Becchina. Police released no additional details.

Police ID KC shoplifting suspect who died after taken into custody

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — `United Methodist delegates on Friday repealed their church’s longstanding ban on the celebrations of same-sex marriages or unions by its clergy and in its churches.

The action marked the final major reversal of a collection of LGBTQ bans and disapprovals that have been embedded throughout the laws and social teachings of the United Methodist Church over the previous half-century.

The 447-233 vote by the UMC's General Conference came one day after delegates overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/methodists-lgbtq-samesex-marriage-gay-rights-e3a7677a3b025b07211153179727c255">voted to repeal</a>&nbsp;a 52-year-old declaration that the practice of homosexuality is "incompatible with Christian teaching” and two days after they repealed the denomination's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-methodist-lgbtq-clergy-general-conference-acabe18fe22b6838e3005ad8895534fa">ban on LGBTQ clergy</a>.

It’s the UMC’s first legislative gathering since 2019, one that featured its most progressive slate of delegates in memory following the departure of more than 7,600 mostly conservative congregations in the United States because it essentially stopped enforcing its bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination.

The delegates voted to repeal a section in their Book of Discipline, or church law, that states: “Ceremonies that celebrate homosexual unions shall not be conducted by our ministers and shall not be conducted in our churches.”

Clergy will neither be required nor prohibited from performing any marriage, according to existing law that the conference affirmed with minor revisions Friday.

On Thursday, delegates approved Revised Social Principles, or statements of the church's values. In addition to removing the language about homosexuality being “incompatible with Christian teaching," that revision also defined marriage as a covenant between two adults, without limiting it to heterosexual couples, as the previous version had done.

But while Social Principles are non-binding, the clause removed on Friday had the force of law.

Regional conferences outside the United States have the ability to set their own rules, however, so churches in Africa and elsewhere with more conservative views on sexuality could retain bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ clergy. A pending amendment to the church constitution would also enable the U.S. region to make such adaptations.

The change doesn’t mandate or even explicitly affirm same-sex marriages. But it removes their prohibition. It takes effect Saturday following the close of General Conference.

The Rev. Rebecca Girrell of Vermont told fellow delegates that she regretted having initially declined a request to perform a same-sex marriage because of church rules. “I promised I would never betray my heart or my call to offer ministry and grace to all persons again,” she said.

Later, she said she did defy church rules and performed the same-sex wedding for two military servicemen before their deployment. “You will never convince me that that was wrong,” she said.

But Samuel Cole from Liberia urged the conference not to approve the measure, saying it would not be accepted in other parts of the world and adding that only a man and a woman can produce children.

A temporary window opened in 2019 that enabled American churches to leave with their properties, normally held by the denomination, under more favorable than normal terms. While the conference voted against extending that window to international churches, the conference votes could still prompt departures of some international churches through different means — particularly in Africa, where conservative sexual values prevail and where same-sex activity is criminalized in some countries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714773005712.png" alt="Amanda Mountain (left) and Bridget Cabrera celebrate outside the Charlotte Convention Center during the United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, N.C., after delegates eliminated the longtime assertion in the denomination’s Social Principles that “the practice of homosexuality… is incompatible with Christian teaching.” Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News." />
 <figcaption>Amanda Mountain (left) and Bridget Cabrera celebrate outside the Charlotte Convention Center during the United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, N.C., after delegates eliminated the longtime assertion in the denomination’s Social Principles that “the practice of homosexuality… is incompatible with Christian teaching.” Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.</figcaption>
 </figure>CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — `United Methodist delegates on Friday repealed their church’s longstanding ban on the celebrations of same-sex marriages or unions by its clergy and in its churches.The action marked the final major reversal of a collection of LGBTQ bans and disapprovals that have been embedded throughout the laws and social teachings of the United Methodist Church over the previous half-century.The 447-233 vote by the UMC's General Conference came one day after delegates overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/methodists-lgbtq-samesex-marriage-gay-rights-e3a7677a3b025b07211153179727c255">voted to repeal</a>&nbsp;a 52-year-old declaration that the practice of homosexuality is "incompatible with Christian teaching” and two days after they repealed the denomination's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-methodist-lgbtq-clergy-general-conference-acabe18fe22b6838e3005ad8895534fa">ban on LGBTQ clergy</a>.It’s the UMC’s first legislative gathering since 2019, one that featured its most progressive slate of delegates in memory following the departure of more than 7,600 mostly conservative congregations in the United States because it essentially stopped enforcing its bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination.The delegates voted to repeal a section in their Book of Discipline, or church law, that states: “Ceremonies that celebrate homosexual unions shall not be conducted by our ministers and shall not be conducted in our churches.”Clergy will neither be required nor prohibited from performing any marriage, according to existing law that the conference affirmed with minor revisions Friday.On Thursday, delegates approved Revised Social Principles, or statements of the church's values. In addition to removing the language about homosexuality being “incompatible with Christian teaching," that revision also defined marriage as a covenant between two adults, without limiting it to heterosexual couples, as the previous version had done.But while Social Principles are non-binding, the clause removed on Friday had the force of law.Regional conferences outside the United States have the ability to set their own rules, however, so churches in Africa and elsewhere with more conservative views on sexuality could retain bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ clergy. A pending amendment to the church constitution would also enable the U.S. region to make such adaptations.The change doesn’t mandate or even explicitly affirm same-sex marriages. But it removes their prohibition. It takes effect Saturday following the close of General Conference.The Rev. Rebecca Girrell of Vermont told fellow delegates that she regretted having initially declined a request to perform a same-sex marriage because of church rules. “I promised I would never betray my heart or my call to offer ministry and grace to all persons again,” she said.Later, she said she did defy church rules and performed the same-sex wedding for two military servicemen before their deployment. “You will never convince me that that was wrong,” she said.But Samuel Cole from Liberia urged the conference not to approve the measure, saying it would not be accepted in other parts of the world and adding that only a man and a woman can produce children.A temporary window opened in 2019 that enabled American churches to leave with their properties, normally held by the denomination, under more favorable than normal terms. While the conference voted against extending that window to international churches, the conference votes could still prompt departures of some international churches through different means — particularly in Africa, where conservative sexual values prevail and where same-sex activity is criminalized in some countries.Separately, the General Conference on Friday removed language making it a chargeable offense for clergy to be a “self-avowed practicing homosexual” or perform same-sex marriages — similar to previous repeals but affecting a different part of church law. There was some debate because the measure also removed other chargeable offenses, such as being unfaithful in marriage, but proponents said there are other parts of the Book of Discipline that allow the church to discipline ministers for immorality.___Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/ap-twir">collaboration</a>&nbsp;with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.