Salina Area Technical College has been recognized by the Associated General Contractors of Kansas (AGC) as the Mid-East Kansas Region Post-Secondary School of the Year for 2025. In addition, Brett Hillegiest, Electrical Technology Instructor, was named the Mid-East Kansas Region Post-Secondary Instructor of the Year for 2025.

These awards, presented by AGC’s Build Up Kansas Workforce Development Program, celebrate excellence in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the leadership that helps build a strong pipeline of skilled workers for Kansas industries.

In its recognition letter, AGC praised Salina Tech and Mr. Hillegeist for their “leadership in delivering valuable NCCER construction trade instruction” and for helping students earn industry-recognized credentials that prepare them for employment as professionals in Kansas’ growing construction sector.

The honor also includes a $1,000 per award to support Salina Tech’s Electrical Technology program.

“We are extremely proud of this recognition,” said Jennifer Callis, Vice President of Student and Academic Affairs. “It’s a reflection of the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students who work every day to advance technical education and meet workforce needs across Kansas. We are excited to celebrate Brett on receiving such an honor for his commitment to his program.”

The Associated General Contractors of Kansas represents the state’s leading commercial contractors and works to strengthen the construction industry through education, advocacy, and workforce development.

For more information about Salina Tech’s Electrical Technology, Construction Technology or any other programs, visit <a href="http://www.salinatech.edu">www.salinatech.edu</a>.

Salina Tech and Electrical Technology instructor receive prestigious awards 

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear person/family; 2nd or subs

NAME:&nbsp;Hammon, Elijah Christopher

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct

NAME:&nbsp;Hokett, Christopher Lee

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Indirect

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

*No image available for&nbsp;Klinkerman, Shealynn Jane*

NAME:&nbsp;Klinkerman, Shealynn Jane

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm; Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K

NAME:&nbsp;Mullins, David Williams

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

NAME:&nbsp;Santana, Angel De Jesus

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Improper method of notice to turn; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; felony; License carried/exhibited; Possess of firearm while under the influence

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, November 8

A Retired Kansas Court of Appeals judge and his wife have established a new scholarship through the Kansas Bar Foundation (KBF) that celebrates the Buser family’s three generations of lawyers. 

The scholarship is designed to encourage law students to be the first person in their family to enter the legal profession and inspire students with a disability to achieve the goal of becoming a lawyer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Honorable Michael B. Buser and his wife, Holly Buser, provided funding for the Buser Family Scholarship. Judge Buser attended law school at the University of Kansas. His father, George J. Buser, Jr., attended the University of Kansas City (now the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law or UMKC School of Law) and was a career banker/trust officer in Overland Park. Following in Judge Buser’s footsteps is his son, Andrew, who graduated from UMKC School of Law and is general counsel of The Lead Group, a digital media company.

“The scholarship commemorates three generations of the Buser family who have practiced law in Kansas. It also acknowledges the commitment of many other Kansas families who have served our legal profession,” stated Buser. “For example, my former colleague on the Court, Judge Patrick D. McAnany, was a third-generation lawyer and father to a fourth-generation lawyer, his son Chris.”&nbsp;

In 2024, the McAnany family established the Judge Patrick D. McAnany Scholarship with the KBF. Judge Buser doubts there will be a fourth-generation attorney in their family. 

When Holly asked their 8-year-old grandson if he was going to be an attorney he said, “I don’t want to be an attorney.” She then asked him if he wanted to be a judge and he replied, “Yeah, I want to be Aaron Judge!”

Kevin Mitchelson, KBF President, stated, “One of our strategic goals is to build the Foundation’s endowments and offer more scholarships. In addition to encouraging individuals to be the first person in their family to enter the legal profession, the Buser Family Scholarship provides an opportunity for law students with disabilities. We are grateful to Judge Buser and Mrs. Buser and proud to offer this scholarship. We look forward to sharing this opportunity with law students.”

According to Judge Buser, besides prioritizing first-generation law students, students with disabilities also will receive preference in being awarded the scholarship. 

“This aspect of the scholarship is in recognition of my wife Holly’s 40-year career as a pediatric physical therapist,” stated Buser. “Recently my wife was thrilled to learn that an infant with neurological issues that she had treated more than 20 years ago just received a scholarship to earn a doctorate in physical therapy. Similarly, we hope this new KBF scholarship will assist a student with a disability to achieve the goal of becoming a lawyer.”

Kansas Bar Association&nbsp;The 2026 KBF&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbar.org/?pg=scholarships">Scholarship program</a>&nbsp;will start accepting applications in December 2025.

The Buser Family Scholarship is one of twelve that will provide a total of about $40,000 to several outstanding students.

Retired Court of Appeals Judge & wife establish scholarship for first-gen law students and disabled pursuant in law career

McPherson Center for Health

MCPHERSON - McPherson Center for Health recently hosted its 4th annual&nbsp;Mammos &amp; Mocktails, an event dedicated to women’s health, early detection, and a little fun to go along!

This year’s event was especially exciting because it was the first time&nbsp;Mammos &amp; Mocktails&nbsp;could take full advantage of the hospital’s stereotactic breast biopsy technology, allowing women to receive advanced diagnostic care after their screening mammogram if necessary. Combined with the hospital’s 3D mammography technology, these tools help provide earlier, more accurate detection, all close to home.

This year’s event also had something new: Radiology Office Coordinator, Courtney Long, used a waitlist of patients overdue for a mammogram to help more women get scheduled sooner and be part of the celebration.

“We’ve had such a positive response over the years,” said Tammy Field, Director of Radiology. “It’s been wonderful to see not only the community engage with the event, but also our CAREgivers who volunteer to help with wayfinding and registration. Their involvement helps spread awareness throughout McPherson and beyond.”

Participants included both local residents and women who traveled from nearby communities, even a former McPherson resident who now lives in Salina made the trip back to have her mammogram performed during the event.

For Field, success isn’t measured in numbers but in the peace of mind women walk away with. “If we can put someone at ease so she’ll come back next year, or help identify something early, that’s a win,” she said.

What makes&nbsp;Mammos &amp; Mocktails&nbsp;special, Field added, is the level of experience and care behind it all. “Our Women’s Imaging and Diagnostic Center has more than 66 years of combined mammographer experience, all within a 5-Star Center for Health. That’s something we’re proud of.”

Field also credited the consistent support from senior leadership, CAREgivers, and the Radiology scheduling team. “It takes a lot of teamwork and heart to make this event happen every year, and I’m so grateful for everyone who plays a part,” she said.

Women who are due for their annual mammogram are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling 620-241-2251 EXT 3950 or visiting <a href="http://mcphersoncenterforhealth.org">mcphersoncenterforhealth.org</a>.

McPherson Center for Health hosts 4th annual “Mammos & Mocktails” event

Rolling Hills Zoo was transformed into a haven of dreams for children with chronic or terminal illnesses and disabilities during this year’s Dream Night event held September 20, 2025. This event was made possible through the generous support of Salina Regional Health Foundation’s CHIP grant and the McCune &amp; Middlekauff Foundation.

A dedicated team of Dream Night volunteers greeted the VIP children and their parents or guardians upon their arrival, and each child received a special Rolling Hills Zoo keepsake bag, complete with a plush animal, water bottle, cozy animal themed hat, and a variety of delightful surprises inside.

Rolling Hills Zoo’s mascots George the Giraffe and Rowdy the Rhino, along with the Kansas Wesleyan University’s Casey the Coyote, greeted the children and posed for photos. Adding to this year’s excitement was a giant bubble maker creating an enticing pile of bubbles for the kids to run through, while the Salina Selfie Station offered a fun way for families to capture their VIP memories together.

After enjoying a warm meal in the Conference Center, families explored the Wildlife Museum, Hideaway Hollow and the Earl Bane Gallery, took tram rides through the zoo, participated in crafts, and met some of the zoo’s animal ambassadors up close. Smiles, laughter, and moments of pure joy filled every corner of the evening.

This year's Dream Night at Rolling Hills Zoo was attended by seventy-four remarkable children and their parents. The success of this event was made possible by the unwavering support of Independent Connection volunteers, the KWU Cheer Squad, and the devoted team at Rolling Hills Zoo.

VIP children who were unable to attend Dream Night on September 20th, received a special Golden Ticket which granted them and two parents or guardians free admission to the zoo. Additionally, they were presented with their VIP keepsake bag and a $20 gift card that could be redeemed at the Overlook Restaurant or Elephant’s Trunk Gift Shop. This gesture allowed additional VIP children to enjoy this special time set aside just for them.

The heartwarming tradition of Dream Night at the Zoo has a rich history beginning in 1996 at the Rotterdam Zoo. That year, children from the Sophia Children’s Hospital, especially cancer patients, were treated to a memorable evening. Over the years, this tradition has continued to grow, expanding the event to include more children and various hospitals and institutions.

In 2007, Rolling Hills Zoo joined this heartwarming initiative as an official partner, dedicating a special night exclusively to children with terminal or chronic illnesses and disabilities, along with their parents. Each year the Zoo is committed to providing an environment where children facing unique mental and physical health challenges can feel at ease and enjoy the company of animals while engaging in special activities at their own pace, all in a safe and enjoyable setting.

Rolling Hills Zoo, the Salina Regional Health Foundation, and the McCune &amp; Middlekauff Foundation are honored to have the opportunity to bring joy and unforgettable memories to these extraordinary children and their families through Dream Night at the Zoo. We look forward to continuing this tradition of love, care, and support in the years to come.

For more information about Rolling Hills Zoo and its ongoing conservation and animal care efforts, visit <a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org">rollinghillszoo.org</a> or follow the Zoo on social media.

Dream night brings joy to children with special needs at Rolling Hills Zoo

Kansas Wesleyan University will launch a marching band program in the fall of 2026, adding to the Music Department’s wide range of ensemble and performance opportunities for Coyote students.&nbsp;

“Here at Kansas Wesleyan, we are committed to providing involvement opportunities for our students,” said Ken Oliver, executive vice president. “While there may be some crossover in involvement between the two groups, a marching band opens different doors than a traditional ensemble, simply because of the positions and work involved. We will be one of the few private institutions in the region to offer this opportunity, and our hope is that opens doors for the next generation of Coyotes.&nbsp;

This will be the first time Kansas Wesleyan has a marching band in nearly a decade, and much like other KWU groups, it will provide opportunities for continuous improvement and personal growth.&nbsp;

“We have so much respect for elite musicians, without question,” said Jake Montoya, director of athletic bands, who will lead the marching band. “However, at KWU, we want any musician who will work hard, engage with their bandmates and put their best efforts in every day. We want to see musicians grow, and we want to see students fall more in love with music during their time as a Coyote. This is our philosophy as a department. For marching band, it means that we have opportunities for band members at different levels, with varying degrees of experience, and we want to hear from anyone interested in the program.”&nbsp;

Scholarships specific to the program will be available and will be announced in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

For additional information on the marching band program, contact Montoya at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jake.montoya@kwu.edu">jake.montoya@kwu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

For more information on Kansas Wesleyan University, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kwu.edu/news">www.kwu.edu/news</a>.&nbsp;

KWU to bring back marching band program after nearly a decade

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

<a href="https://www.noonambucs.com/">Salina Noon AMBUCS</a>&nbsp;present and generously give an Army Veteran a new Amtryke, as the organization seeks to continue supporting Veterans.

Daryle Kirk, an Army Veteran who served the country for 23 years, was "very grateful" after receiving his new <a href="https://ambucs.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/JT2000-JT-2300-USS.pdf">JT 2300 Amtryke</a> from the Salina Noon AMBUCS team.

This new Amtryke model presented to Kirk, comes after the Noon AMBUCS team obtained a $1,400 grant from the <a href="https://ambucs.org/">national AMBUCS office in North Carolina</a>.&nbsp;

Ambility "Amtryke" Chairman, Kathy Butala stated they are working to grow in supporting more veterans with Amtrykes in the days ahead. Kirk will benefit tremendously from the Amtryke as it will support his back.

Kirk met with the Noon AMBUCS team at the OCCK bike rodeo event, that occurred on May of this year. He took his grandchildren to the event, where the AMBUCS team learned about the back injuries Kirk sustained while in service. AMBUCS then kept in contact with Kirk and provided him with an Amtryke.

The JT 2300 he received, will replace the Amtryke he initially had.

AMBUCS provides and tests with different models of Amtrykes, to find out which model best suits the beneficiary. They also work with therapists to determine which Amtryke best suites the one receiving it.

"With these Amtrykes, they get to ride with their friends and families when they couldn't," said Karen Vidricksen, President of Salina Noon AMBUCS.

In addition, Noon AMBUCS also holds their annual <a href="https://www.noonambucs.com/bid-appetit">Bid Appetite</a>&nbsp;fundraiser, the first Sunday of every March. The next&nbsp;Bid Appetite will be held on March 1, 2026.

Last year, Noon AMBUCS gave away 30 Amtrykes to children ages 2-18.&nbsp;

<a href="https://amtryke.org/?srsltid=AfmBOoqsRvtmQgNV6ACzt--43uIsQ--7QHw5zVspZY-fTxKbY8BJwHsN">Amtryke LLC</a>&nbsp;is a subsidiary of National AMBUCS, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to inspiring mobility and independence by providing Amtryke adaptive trykes, scholarships for therapists and many forms of community service.

Click <a href="https://ambucs.org/amtryke-support/">here</a>&nbsp;to find all the models of Amtrykes, manuals and instructional videos.

For more information about the Noon AMBUCS Salina chapter, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.noonambucs.com/">https://www.noonambucs.com/</a>

Salina Noon AMBUCS gives Army Veteran new Amtryke model: Growing Veteran support

Here is the lineup for the Saturday Morning Show with Dave Foor &amp; Nicolas Fierro on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA for&nbsp;November 10:

- Karen Couch, Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank&nbsp;

- Dan Holiday, Meteorologist giving weather updates

- Melissa McCoy, "Operation Green Light"

All episodes are recorded and uploaded on the&nbsp;<a href="https://streamdb7web.securenetsystems.net/cirrusencore/index.cfm?CFID=05fb1ecb-7d68-4542-adb3-9b7c11d9b5e5&amp;CFTOKEN=0&amp;stationCallSign=KINA&amp;onDemandAutoStart=true&amp;p92136680=true&amp;relocateURL=true">910 AM and 107.5 FM KINA website</a>, under the 'KINA Saturday Mornings'&nbsp;tab.

Saturday Morning Show lineup with Dave Foor & Nicolas Fierro, November 8

A victim of a scam is out $4,000 after befriending someone on Facebook.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD), a 65-year old man befriended a female on Facebook back on the beginning of October. Reportedly, the woman told the man she had "inherited $1.6 million."

The man was advised he could obtain a portion of this amount. 

Afterwards, the man was contacted by an "attorney" stating he needed to provide fees and legal paperwork in order to receive this amount.

The victim then sent a total of $4,000 in Apple gift cards to pay for these "legal fees."&nbsp;

On Thursday, the victim contacted SPD stating he was scammed.

SPD would like to remind everyone if anybody by phone perceives to be a "lawyer, attorney or government official" and asks for gift cards, money or bitcoin, to NOT follow through with it.&nbsp;It is a scam.

Victim of scam out $4,000 after befriending someone on Facebook

Salina Police arrest and book two felons on several requested charges after a conducted traffic stop.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Thursday at around noon, an officer in the areas of Schilling and I-135 conducted a traffic stop on a black 2012 Ford Mustang that failed make a complete stop at a stop sign and driving improperly.

When the vehicle complied, a K9 with the officer indicated there were a possibility of illegal drugs present. During the search of the suspect vehicle, law enforcement located methamphetamine, a handgun and drug paraphernalia. 

Two suspects were then arrested from the vehicle.

Those suspects were identified as Dalton Freeze (29) and&nbsp;Carl Persinger (38) both from Salina.

Freeze and Persinger were booked into the Saline County Jail for the requested charges of:

Distribution of Opiates, Possession of Opiates, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Felon in Possession with a Firearm and two requested charges of No Drug Tax Stamp.

Additionally, Freeze had several driving infractions.

Two felons booked on several requested charges after traffic stop arrest

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Four day weather forecast Salina, November 7 - November 10

Three day weather forecast Salina, November 5 - November 7

Three day weather forecast Salina, November 3 - November 5

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 31 - November 2

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 29 - October 31

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 27 - October 29

Four day weather forecast Salina, October 24 - October 27

The US National Weather Service has announced events of showers and thunderstorms are expected to return this weekend in Salina and throughout Central Kansas.

Accordingly, showers and thunderstorms will overspread the area starting Thursday night, with the greatest coverage in southern Kansas. Temperatures will drop into the upper 40s and 50s throughout the area.

Forecast depicts that showers and thunderstorms are likely to occur throughout the span of this weekend, and into Monday, October 27.

Showers and thunderstorms expected to return to Salina this weekend

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 22 - October 24

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 20 - October 22

NEW YORK (AP) — Peloton is recalling nearly 878,000 of its exercise bikes across the U.S. and Canada because the products’ seat posts can break during use, posing fall hazards.

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2026/Peloton-Recalls-Original-Series-Bike-Exercise-Bikes-Due-to-Fall-and-Injury-Hazards" target="_blank">notices published</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada on Thursday, the recall covers certain “Peloton Original Series Bike+” units carrying model number PL02. Peloton has received three reports of seat posts breaking on these bikes in the U.S., two of which resulted in fall injuries. There’s been no additional incidents&nbsp;<a href="https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/peloton-original-series-bike-model-pl02-seat-post-recalled-due-potential-fall-hazard" target="_blank">in Canada</a>&nbsp;to date.

Both consumer safety watchdogs and Peloton urge owners of these bikes to stop using them and contact the New York-based exercise company for a free seat post replacement.

“The integrity of our products and our Members’ well-being are our top priorities,” a Peloton spokesperson said in an emailed statement — adding that the company would make its redesigned seat post replacements “available to all affected Bike+ users.”

<a href="https://support.onepeloton.com/s/article/Peloton-Original-Series-Bike-Plus-Seat-Post-Recall-and-Free-Seat-Post-Replacement?language=en_CA" target="_blank">Peloton’s website</a>&nbsp;has information to help determine if your bike is part of the recall and instructions on how to install this new seat post if needed.

The now-recalled bikes were sold at Peloton and Dick’s Sporting Goods stores, as well as websites like Amazon and eBay, from 2020 through April 2025 for about $2,495. The impacted Bike+ units have serial numbers beginning with the letter “T.” About 833,000 units were sold in the U.S. and another 44,800 in Canada.

Peloton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/peloton-recall-exercise-bike-97e041d66bb5677af87a2db02a093437">previously recalled 2 million of its original Bikes</a>&nbsp;(with model number PL01) back in 2023, following similar — and more numerous — reports of breaking seat posts and related injuries.

The Bike+ products recalled this week were manufactured before that 2023 recall, between December 2019 and July 2022. But the company has since rolled out its redesigned seat post. According to Peloton’s spokesperson, Bike+ products made since the middle of 2023 have had that new seat post and are not impacted.

Why Peloton is recalling 878,000 exercise bikes

Speaker: Ten Republicans in House refuse to sign petition to change U.S. House boundaries

TOPEKA — Kansas House Speaker Dan Hawkins stripped three Republicans of committee chairmanships for refusing to sign a petition calling for a special legislative session to redraw congressional boundaries in a bid to block reelection of Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids and to tackle a handful of unrelated bills.

Hawkins relied on his unilateral power as the House’s top leader to alter committee assignments and remove as chairmen GOP Reps. Steven Howe of Salina, Nathan Butler of Junction City and Jesse Borjon of Topeka. Hawkins also removed Rep. Clarke Sanders of Salina and Rep. Leah Howell of Derby from vice chair positions.

Sanders, who was vice chair of the House Higher Education Budget Committee, said Hawkins called him Friday with the news. Sanders said Republicans in committee leadership positions who wouldn’t sign the special session petition were targeted.

“Those of us who were chairs and vice chairs … have been relieved because we didn’t agree to sign on for a special session,” Sanders said. “I understand it. I knew that not signing it came with a risk. I just didn’t think it was the right thing to do. I hope to maintain a good relationship with the speaker, but this was something he felt he had to do.”

It’s likely additional committee vice chairs could be removed from leadership positions by the House speaker. Rank-and-file members of the House also could face sanctions in terms of committee assignments ahead of the 2026 legislative session in January.

The committee leaders demoted by Hawkins were among 10 Republican House members who declined to sign the petition for the special session. Neither Howe, Butler nor Borjon could be immediately reached for comment.

“I’m not shocked. It wasn’t too much of a surprise to me,” said Rep. Mark Schreiber, an Emporia Republican who was among the GOP representatives who didn’t sign the petition. “I’ve been there quite a long time as a lobbyist and legislator. I’ve seen that from leadership.”

He said the Republicans who lost committee assignments wouldn’t be deprived of an opportunity to represent their constituents in the House.

“They still have votes on the floor and can speak from the (House) well,” Schreiber said.

Hawkins was able to convince 78 of the 88 GOP members of the House to sign, which fell below the two-thirds requirement of 84 signatures from 125 House members to authorize the special session. Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson was able to secure the necessary 27 signatures to complete special session requirements in that chamber. The special session had been scheduled for Nov. 7.

On Tuesday, Hawkins threw in the towel on a plan to circumvent Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and call a special session devoted to congressional redistricting intended to undermine Davids, a four-term congresswoman with a district centered on Johnson County.

The Kansas Constitution permits the state’s governor to call special sessions. The Legislature also could convene the House and Senate at the Capitol for a special session, but that required petition signatures from at least two-thirds of members in the House and Senate.

Under legislative rules, Hawkins said, once the Nov. 7 deadline was breached the original House and Senate petitions would be voided and the signature search would have to start over.

“To say I’m disappointed would be an understatement,” Hawkins said in his newsletter posted Friday. “At this late date, the only option was to wait until we return for the regular session on January 12.”

In terms of Kansas’ four congressional districts, President Donald Trump urged GOP-led legislatures in Kansas and other states to redraw boundaries to promote election of more Republicans in November 2026 so the U.S. House might remain under GOP control.

Hawkins wanted the Legislature to gather in November to address Trump’s plea for mid-decade redistricting and to consider how to handle federal funding of rural health care and a court decision allowing Kansans to change gender information on a driver’s license. There also were discussions about taking up property tax legislation during the special session.

He said in a statement Tuesday that scheduling conflicts and competing agendas made planning a special session an “uphill battle.”

In the House speaker’s newsletter Friday, he said delaying decisions until January meant Kelly would have “full discretion” on allocation of new federal funding for health care in rural Kansas. Without advance guardrails, he said, funding accepted by Kelly couldn’t be returned to the federal government.

“Those who refused to sign a petition played right into the governor’s hands by giving her free rein without oversight on hundreds of millions of dollars. Sad,” Hawkins said.

Hawkins said delaying passage of a gender identification bill meant the Legislature’s action to nullify the court decision would be “very costly and difficult.”

The timeline for imposing new congressional districts on Kansans — the focus has been on splitting voter-rich Johnson County among multiple districts — would be “greatly shortened,” Hawkins said.

He also disclosed there were “valid” complaints about the cost to taxpayers of a special session, especially since the regular session would begin in two months on Jan. 12. The GOP-controlled Legislative Coordinating Council voted in October to allocate $460,000 to the special session.

“It’s also important to remember that the Legislature did their business in record time this (2025 regular) session saving a significant amount of money,” Hawkins said. “These savings would have been more than enough to cover the cost of a special session.”

Hawkins notified the chief clerk of the House of committee changes in a memo dated Friday.

The memo shows Rep. Adam Turk of Shawnee replaced Howe as the chair of Higher Education Budget Committee. Rep. Rick James of La Cygne replaced Butler as chair of the Veterans and Military Committee. Rep. Carl Turner of Leawood replaced Borjon as chair of the Legislative Modernization Committee.

Rep. Kyler Sweely of Hutchinson replaced Sanders as vice chair on the Higher Education Budget Committee, and Rep. John Resman of Olathe replaced Howell as vice chair on the Transportation and Public Safety Budget Committee.

In other changes, Rep. Blake Carpenter was removed from the Interstate Cooperation Committee, Rep. Brian Bergkamp was removed from the Child Welfare and Foster Care Committee, and Rep. Megan Steele was removed from the Veterans and Military Committee.

Kansas House speaker punishes GOP colleagues for not supporting special session

Earlier this week, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasTurnpike?__cft__[0]=AZWTnnNDBynwYuBVyTdC0hFaaJITHuM7xH0uXoKT7JGNTIDF4mFinyqK6I1fiPdRp6bSOffsEnsbDcDnUr9kbYs-pAkEsKIKH8wwkgNK1W-itWBlSdRcZB7RiW8yVfItnVDw07qC3xiX7KKwBrnnye8Q-En5leIQU4Ri0bop7AWeSu-JRt4Nc5ndBQjXfeb8AlzOq_N6my10zrB32r4-8p9s&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Turnpike Authority</a> Trooper was stopped with its emergency lights activated in the left lane of traffic on I-70 blocking a wrecked vehicle in the roadway, according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

 The trooper was in his vehicle, along with a witness of that previous crash.  A motorist failed to move over and struck the stationary patrol car. 

"This is why it’s important to Slow Down and Move Over." If you can’t tell exactly where the flashing lights are - on the shoulder or in the lane - you have time to react if you’ve already slowed to prepare for an emergency ahead."

"The new Move Over law includes moving over for anyone on the side of the road with hazard lights activated. For everyone’s safety, please remember to Slow Down. Move Over."

🎥Car slammed into Trooper's vehicle on I-70

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs on Tuesday spoke on the Senate floor ahead of Veterans Day next Tuesday to mark this year as the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, commemorate the service of Vietnam veterans and recognize the impact Vietnam veterans have had on Kansas and the nation. Sen. Moran this week introduced a resolution to recognize 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War.

“In Kansas, many communities have set up memorials to recognize their hometown heroes and the hundreds of Kansans who died serving in the Vietnam War,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“From the Rooks County Memorial at the local courthouse near my hometown to the Vietnam Wall at Pittsburg State in the eastern part of the state, Kansans have made it their mission to never forget those who served.”

“As we approach Veterans Day, we are reminded of our nation’s commitment to honor those who have served in our nation’s Armed Forces and to make certain their legacy is never forgotten,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Vietnam veterans were not treated with the dignity and respect they deserved when they returned home from their service. Their service earned our nation’s lasting gratitude, and we should strive to honor our nation’s heroes and the sacrifices they made.”

Sen. Moran also honored two Kansans from Rooks County, Marine Corps Sergeant Timmy Miller and Army Private First-Class Charles Acheson, who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country in Vietnam.

Sens. Moran, Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) introduced a resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. Learn more about the resolution&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.veterans.senate.gov/services/files/E9913A5B-E16E-43B1-B93C-9497FDD654A1">here</a>.

🎥Moran on the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam war 

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/david-a-lieb">DAVID A. LIEB</a> Associated Press

People in some U.S. states will be able to buy groceries with federally funded SNAP benefits Saturday while those in other states were still waiting for November food benefits that had been delayed by a protracted legal battle over the federal government shutdown.

The Trump administration initially&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-aid-government-shutdown-snap-trump-democrats-8a52a63b26a707ea676962226b090bb1">said last month</a>&nbsp;that it would not fund&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-how-it-works-cards-e061c2af0f3cc997b69a24296238783c">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>&nbsp;benefits for November because of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/the-government-shutdown-is-now-the-longest-in-history-d732b4616fa5467a9f6772793d1b8906">U.S. government shutdown</a>. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-food-government-shutdown-trump-a807e9f0c0a7213e203c074553dc1f9b">twists and turns</a>&nbsp;since have exacerbated uncertainty for the nearly 1 in 8 Americans who receive monthly SNAP benefits to spend at grocery stores and farmer’s markets.

On Friday, some states began issuing full monthly SNAP benefits to people, a day after a federal judge ordered the Trump administration to provide the funds.

But Friday night, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson temporarily paused that judicial order to allow time for an appeals court to decide whether to issue a more lasting halt. Jackson acted because she handles emergency matters from Massachusetts.

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Nearly 42 million Americans receive SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps, for help buying groceries. Most have incomes below the poverty line, which is about $32,000 for a family of four.

An individual can receive a monthly maximum food benefit of nearly $300 and a family of four up to nearly $1,000, although many receive less than that under a formula that takes into consideration their income.

The delay in payments has led to a surge in demand at food banks and pantries across the country, as well as long lines for free meals or drive-thru giveaways.

Some states have provided emergency funding to food banks to help them respond to the increased need. Some states also used their own dollars to fund direct payments to people while the federal benefits were in limbo.

Where have people already received benefits?

Whether SNAP beneficiaries see money on their electronic benefits transfer cards depends on where they live.

In Hawaii, Oregon and Wisconsin, officials worked quickly after a judge ordered full benefit payments Thursday to instruct their EBT providers to process the full payments.

“We moved with haste once we verified everything,” Joseph Campos II, deputy director of Hawaii’s Department of Human Services, told The Associated Press.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat, said state employees “worked through the night” to issue full November benefits “to make sure every Oregon family relying on SNAP could buy groceries” over the weekend.

Officials in California, Kansas, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Washington also confirmed that some SNAP recipients were issued their full November payments on Friday.

Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, said more than 250,00 households that missed their regular monthly SNAP payment during the first week of November received their full amount on Friday. The remaining beneficiaries would receive their November funds on their regularly scheduled dates later this month — if distribution does not remain blocked by legal challenges.

The Trump administration said in a legal filing with the Supreme Court that “there is no ready mechanism for the government to recover those funds” that already have been distributed.

Before Jackson ordered a pause, Colorado and Massachusetts had said SNAP participants could receive their full November payments as soon as Saturday. New York had said access to full SNAP benefits should begin by Sunday. New Hampshire had said full benefits should be available over the weekend.

And Arizona, Connecticut and Minnesota all had said that full SNAP benefits should be accessible in the coming days.

Whether people actually will receive those benefits on their EBT cards remains unclear.

For peoples in some other states, the wait appears likely to extend into next week. Numerous state officials said they had been waiting for further guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers SNAP.

What has been holding up November benefits?

Because of the federal government shutdown, the Trump administration originally had said SNAP benefits would not be available in November. After two judges ruled the administration could not skip November’s benefits entirely, the administration said it would use an emergency reserve fund containing more than $4.6 billion to provide partial benefits in November.

A judge on Thursday said that wasn’t good enough, and ordered other funds to be used to make the full monthly payment. The Trump administration appealed, asking a higher court to suspend any orders that require it to spend more money than is available in the contingency fund. That is what led to Jackson’s temporary hold issued late Friday.

Kansans issued full SNAP food aid while others wait for Nov. benefits

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just before 11a.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the area of E 39th Street and Chestnut Avenue, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Officers responded and began canvassing the area for any victims. Officers located a man lying on the sidewalk unresponsive and suffering from gunshot trauma.&nbsp; EMS immediately responded and declared the victim deceased.

Police have no suspect details and released no additional information.

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