Kansas State Department of Education

The Kansas State Board of Education has approved new cut scores for state assessments, reaffirming the state’s commitment to maintaining high academic expectations while ensuring a more accurate and fair measure of student achievement.

Kansas introduced a new assessment in 2025, and as is standard practice, cut scores were developed accordingly. 

Kansas educators coming together to set cut scores also afforded an opportunity to address what multiple measures have shown to be a long-standing misalignment between assessment scores and actual student performance.

Through an in-depth study comparing individual state assessment results with ACT scores, AP coursework, dual credit, graduation rates and postsecondary outcomes, educators found that previous performance levels did not accurately reflect student readiness.

“This process is about accuracy, fairness and alignment, not lowering expectations,” said Kansas Education Commissioner Randy Watson. “Kansas educators led this process, using their professional expertise and data to set cut scores that reflect what our students truly know and can do.”

The new cut scores provide a more precise, transparent and evidence-based measure of achievement.

Cut scores are specific points on a test’s scoring scale that separate different levels of student performance. They determine the minimum score a student must achieve to be placed into a particular performance category – Limited, Basic, Proficient, Advanced.&nbsp;

2025 State Assessment Performance Level Descriptors:

Kansas State Board of Education approves new state assessment cut scores

After the high temperatures and over 100 heat indices, a possibility of rain is expected to occur throughout Central Kansas this week.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), an anticipation of showers and thunderstorms are expected to happen throughout Central Kansas. Reportedly, there is a better chance on Tuesday, August 19 and into the following day on Wednesday.

Slightly cooler weather is expected for Wednesday and Thursday with highs being in the range of 89-93.

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>.

Chances of showers and t-storms expected for Tuesday & Wednesday

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Salina Post obituary policy (subject to change)

Salina Post understands the importance of honoring the deceased and welcomes all submissions of obituaries with a full summary of their life, survivors, services, website of the funeral home and a photo.

Salina Post accepts all obituaries&nbsp;free of charge&nbsp;and you can email all obituaries:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>&nbsp;and will be posted on the website within 24 business hours.

If you have an issue outside of business hours, if your obituary has not been published within 24 business hours, or if have any questions, please email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com">nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com</a>

You can also call:&nbsp;(785) 656-9856

Recent obituaries and service times

<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>

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 18 - August 20

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.

NAME:&nbsp;Brintnall, William Lawrence

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp;Fairchild, Zachary Ryan

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown; Failure to appear; Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for misdemeanor case

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

NAME:&nbsp;McMillin, Shane Douglas

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; No Proof Of Insurance; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation

NAME:&nbsp;Perez Aguilar, Maria Guadalupe

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit; Agg. assault; w/ deadly weapon

REQUESTED CHARGE: Failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, August 18

Kansas Wesleyan is proud to announce the winners of its 2025 Alumni Awards. Being honored this year are Abby Wray ’23&nbsp;(Young Alumni Award),&nbsp;Dr. David B. Laha ’79&nbsp;(Alumni Service Award)&nbsp;and Powers G. Porter ’12&nbsp;(Alumni Achievement Award). Tom Wilbur will&nbsp;receive the Alumni by Choice distinction.

The awards will be given at the Hall of Fame Induction and Alumni Association Award ceremonies at 9 a.m. Oct. 25, during Homecoming.

Wray is an award-winning multimedia journalist, producer and weekend news anchor at KAKE News in Wichita. She won two first place Kansas Association Broadcasters awards for her work in the News Feature and Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion categories in July.

At KWU, Wray was a part of the forensics and debate team, earning five national titles in parliamentary debate, interviewing, dramatic interpretation, POI and novice prose, and winning the All-American title her junior year. She was an active Communications student, anchoring the news show, hosting a radio show and podcast, writing and editing for the newspaper, and live-streaming countless events during her time in school.

A Biology major, Laha graduated with honors, laying the foundation for his medical career. He was a prominent figure in KWU athletics, excelling in basketball, track and cross country. His dedication to these sports earned him induction into the Jerry Jones Kansas Wesleyan Athletic Hall of Fame for all three sports.

Laha established his podiatry practice in Overland Park, Kan., in 1985, where he has since become a respected specialist in the medical and surgical treatment of the foot. His expertise in reconstructive foot surgery and sports medicine of the lower extremity has made him a leading provider of care in the Kansas City area. He served from 2012 to 2020 on the Kansas State Board of Healing Arts and was the first podiatrist to hold the position of president of the board, from 2017 to 2018.

Porter graduated from Kansas Wesleyan University’s Normal Department on June 5, 1912,&nbsp;when he was&nbsp;one of several graduating speakers. He was born in Oswego, Kan. in 1891 and served as an educator in the state’s school system for 35 years. In his eight years as a principal in Olathe, from 1914 to 1922, he spearheaded the building of a new school.

He became the first principal at Dunbar School, for Black students kindergarten through eighth grade, in Salina in 1922. Porter was selected by Gov. Jonathan McMillan Davis in January 1923 for a special honor as a state delegate to attend the annual Negro National Educational Convention in Washington, D.C., in March that year.

In 1926, he moved to Atchison, where he retired from education in 1947.

Porter continued his involvement in civic affairs. He was widely known in Republican circles in Kansas and served as a campaign speaker for the party’s national committee.&nbsp;He rose to the post of grand master in his Mason lodge, and after his death in June 1973, P.G. Porter Lodge #142, was formed in St. Louis, Ill., and named in his honor.

Wilbur, a prominent business leader and community advocate based in Salina, is being recognized with the Alumni by Choice award. The Alumni by Choice honors individuals who have given unselfishly of themselves to Kansas Wesleyan University but neither graduated from nor attended the university. They must show a strong commitment to the university’s mission and exemplify outstanding commitment.&nbsp;Wilbur most recently served as chairman and CEO of BANK VI, a locally owned financial institution he helped form in 2005. In addition to his banking role, Wilbur is the managing partner of Wilbur Development, LLC, a company focused on real estate and community development projects and regional outreach.

He has been actively involved in charitable causes, and supported numerous nonprofit organizations throughout the years, including serving on their boards. His dedication to civic engagement led to his appointment to the Kansas Wesleyan University Foundation Board in 2019, where he served with distinction for several years.

For more information and to buy tickets for the awards ceremony, please&nbsp;visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kwu.edu/homecoming2025">www.kwu.edu/homecoming2025</a>&nbsp;or call (785) 833-4392.

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

KWU alumni award recipients to be honored at homecoming

*No image available&nbsp;Horacek, Gary Eugene*

NAME:&nbsp;Katzenmeier, Dennis Ryan

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Obstructing apprehension or prosecution; Committed or charged with felony

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;DUI; 2nd conv.; blood or breath .08 or higher; Transporting an open container

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity

NAME:&nbsp;Sanchez-Gallegos, Jose Cristian

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Speeding; maximum limits; Transporting an open container

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, August 17

Kansas Wesleyan is proud to announce the selection of a trio of new members to the university’s Board of Trustees. Judge Angela (Angie) Coble ’94, Bob Meyer ’73 and Teresa (Teri) Schultz ’88 began stints on the board this past month.

“These three distinguished alumni each brings gifts, talents and experiences that will help set the direction of KWU,” said Dr. Matt Thompson, KWU president. “I look forward to working with them to shape our university and the future for the students we serve.”

Angela (Angie) Coble ’94 (Salina, Kan.)&nbsp;is a judge of the Kansas Court of Appeals in Topeka but maintains her residence in Salina. After growing up in western Kansas and graduating from Stockton High School, she earned her bachelor's degree at KWU with a degree in Criminal Justice, receiving the KWU Student Hall of Fame award in 1994. She later earned her law degree from Washburn University School of Law and practiced at a local law firm before spending a decade as a research attorney for two federal judges in Wichita. She was appointed to the Court of Appeals by Gov. Laura Kelly and confirmed by the Kansas Senate to her position in 2022. Coble has served the Salina community in numerous ways, as a volunteer at local schools, church and the Smoky Hill River Festival, and on the boards of organizations such as Salina Emergency Aid/Food Bank, Salina Airport Authority, and more than a decade at Salina Family Healthcare.

Bob Meyer ’73 (Olathe, Kan.)&nbsp;is a longtime leader of the KWU Foundation who recently completed eight years on that board, including a term as chair. Meyer worked alongside KWU leadership to foster continued improvements in the KWU endowment, which is now approaching $50 million. He spent 10 years utilizing his KWU Chemistry degree, working for an environmental laboratory in Salina. He transitioned to financial advising in 1984 and has continued in that career since. In addition to his work with KWU, Meyer has served in various leadership roles in his church and with other charitable organizations. Meyer’s late wife, Karen, attended KWU. They are proud of their long connection to the university.

Teresa (Teri) Schultz ’88 (Lawrence, Kan.)&nbsp;is a patent attorney currently serving as director of licensing for the University of Kansas Center for Technology Commercialization, supporting all of KU, including the KU Medical Center. In addition to more than 12 years of experience in academic technology transfer, Schultz worked in the legal department of a pharmaceutical company for 12 years, advising the company with respect to intellectual property matters, licensing and acquisitions.&nbsp; Teri obtained a B.S. in Chemistry from Kansas Wesleyan, a M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Arizona, and a J.D. from Washburn University School of Law. Numerous family members, including both parents, are alumni of KWU, and she is related to Henry M. Mayo, the first graduate of Kansas Wesleyan (1887), through her grandmother’s side of the family.

Former Kansas Gov. William “Bill” Graves ’76 and Jerry Norton ’59 were selected as trustee emeritus members of the board.

KWU announces newest members of Board of Trustees

ABILENE - Roxie Yonkey, a best-selling author from Goodland, will discuss her newest book "Historic Kansas Roadsides," at the&nbsp;Abilene Public Library&nbsp; (209 NW 4th St.) at 6:30 pm on Thursday, August 21.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Historic Kansas Roadsides" outlines a dozen Kansas road trips. Yonkey will have all her Kansas books available for purchase.&nbsp;

Usually, Yonkey begins presentations by leading "Home on the Range," the Kansas state song. She will then highlight several topics from Historic Kansas Roadsides relating to Abilene, Dickinson County and surrounding counties.

Historic Kansas Roadsides&nbsp;is Yonkey's fifth published book. She wrote the bestseller "100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die," "Secret Kansas: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure" and the Kansas sections of&nbsp;Midwest Road Trip Adventures&nbsp;and&nbsp;Midwest State Park Adventures. 

Yonkey has written about Kansas for more than 35 years and has amassed numerous awards.

Best-selling author from Goodland to discuss Kansas road trips at Abilene library 

Volga German Sesquicentennial Action Committee

HAYS/ELLIS COUNTY — The <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">Volga German Sesquicentennial Action Committee</a> is calling on the community of Ellis County to help preserve Ellis County’s rich Volga German heritage by submitting historical photographs, documents and personal stories for a forthcoming 2026 commemorative publication.

The committee is gathering high-quality images and narratives that showcase all aspects of Volga German immigrant life, from the settlers’ arrival in the 1870s to the present day.

Organizers say contributions will celebrate 150 years of Volga German influence in the region, marking the official sesquicentennial of their arrival in western Kansas in 1876.

The public submissions can cover a broad range of subjects: 

People and family life, historic buildings and churches, cultural traditions, the German dialect spoken by descendants, recipes and foods or any other facet of Volga German life.

Personal stories and recollections are welcome in either first-person accounts or third-person narratives.

“We want to ensure this anniversary is celebrated not just with dates and facts, but with the voices and images of the families who built our communities,” said Amanda Rupp, executive director of the Ellis County Historical Society. “Preserving these family photos and stories is vital to understanding who we are as a community. It’s about capturing the everyday lives and traditions of the Volga German families that made this area their home.”

Submissions are being accepted through the project website, <a href="http://OurPeopleOurHome.org">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a> which was created to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Volga Germans arrival in Ellis County.

The site’s Submission Center allows users to upload images, videos or written stories and contributors are asked to include captions or descriptions for any photographs.

Submissions will be considered for use online, on social media and in the upcoming published book.

James Bell, publications chair for the Sesquicentennial Action Committee, said that materials from beyond Ellis County are welcome as well.

“We know the region’s Volga German story extends beyond Ellis County’s borders,” Bell said. “If families in surrounding counties have a shared heritage, we encourage them to contribute their stories and photos too. The more perspectives we include, the richer this collection will be.”

For those who have old prints, slides or artifacts that aren’t yet digitized, the committee is offering scanning assistance.&nbsp;Individuals with physical photographs, letters or other documents can contact organizers via the website to arrange use of scanning equipment or other help in converting items to a digital format.

“If you have a box of old photographs or letters in the attic, we want to help you share those,” Bell said. “We have resources to safely scan and digitize these treasures so they can be part of this preservation effort. Every family keepsake has the potential to tell a story.”

Organizers emphasized that all submitted materials should be original (or submitted with permission of the owner) so that the content can be published without legal issues.

Contributors will retain ownership of their originals; the committee requests only the right to include the material in the sesquicentennial project.

The 150th anniversary celebrations are expected to span throughout 2026, honoring the legacy of the Volga German settlers who first arrived in Ellis County in 1876.

Ellis County became a hub for these immigrants in the late 1870s, when German families who had previously settled in Russia’s Volga River region came to the United States seeking new opportunities.

They established a number of local villages, such as Liebenthal, Catherine, Herzog (now Victoria) and others, that still cherish their Volga German roots.

The upcoming sesquicentennial festivities will highlight this heritage through exhibits, cultural demonstrations and gatherings of descendants.

A calendar of events for 2026 is being developed and will be published on <a href="http://OurPeopleOurHome.org">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a> website as plans are finalized.

The American Historical Society of Germans from Russia has again chosen Hays, KS to host its national conference in 2026, reflecting the area’s importance as a center of Volga German history.

The publication and events are an initiative of the Sesquicentennial Action Committee to engage the public in celebrating 150 years of Volga German contributions to the area.

Rupp said the success of the project depends on broad community participation.

“This project is truly about community collaboration,” she said. “Every photo album or family tale that gets shared brings us one step closer to preserving our history for the next generation.”

Community members can upload their materials via the Submit Materials page at <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a>.

Those needing assistance or more information may reach out through the site’s "Contact Us" form or call the Ellis County Historical Society.

The committee encourages early submissions as the commemorative publication will be compiled over the coming months in preparation for the 2026 festivities.

By contributing to <a href="https://ourpeopleourhome.org/">OurPeopleOurHome.org</a> local families can help paint a vibrant picture of Volga German life in Ellis County and ensure that our home and our people are remembered for generations to come.

For questions or more information email: ourpeople150yearsourhome@gmail.com.

Action Committee calling Ellis County members to support its rich history of Volga German heritage

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On August 14, deputies with the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ryan Matthew Roth, 38, of Enterprise, Kansas on a warrant for aggravated internet trading in child pornography and sexual exploitation of a child.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In April, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office began the investigation after receiving tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.&nbsp; During the investigation, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the 500 Block of Court Street, Enterprise, Kansas. &nbsp;Additional search warrants were executed and the warrant was then issued for the arrest of Roth.&nbsp; Roth is being held on a $250,000 bond in the Dickinson County Detention Facility, according to online jail records.

Kansas man accused of trading child porn online

High temperatures and breezy winds are expected to occur throughout Central Kansas this weekend and into Monday, August 18.&nbsp;

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), heat indices are expected to reach as high as 105 in Central Kansas this weekend. Breezy conditions are anticipated to occur as well.

Hot and dry weather will remain through the weekend before chances rain return moving into next week on Monday.

High temps returning this weekend with breezy conditions, rain expected on Monday  

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 15 - August 17

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 13 - August 15

After isolated scattered storms until Wednesday, heat indices are expected to reach back up to the 100's from Thursday and into the weekend in Central Kansas.

According to the US National Weather Service, isolated to widely scattered thunderstorms will remain possible areawide on Tuesday and over southeast Kansas till Wednesday. 

A return to triple digit heat indices is expected by Thursday and persisting through at least the weekend.

Central Kansas Weather Forecast: August 12 - August 16

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 11 - August 13

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 8 - August 10

Temperatures are ramping back up after a dropdown last week in Central Kansas.

According the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), heat indices throughout the Central Kansas region are expected to reach over 100 degrees. 

Areas such as Salina, Russell, Hutchinson, Wichita, Harper and Winfield are under a heat advisory for Thursday, August 7 and Friday, August 8. 

Additional areas include Emporia, Eureka, Chanute and Coffeyville for Friday

US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) advises everyone to take precaution during these times.

Temperatures ramping back up in Central Kansas with heat indices over 100

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 6 - August 8

MCPHERSON COUNTY&nbsp;—One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Sunday in McPherson County.

The McPherson County Sheriff reported a GMC Acadia driven by 47-year-old Tawny O'Hara of Galva was attempting to make a left turn onto Comanche from 22nd. A Honda motorcycle driven by a 65-year-old Terrance Regehr of Galva attempted to pass the SUV.&nbsp; 

The motorcycle struck the driver's side of the Acadia. Moundridge EMS provided lifesaving aid to Regehr but he was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to the Sheriff's office.&nbsp; O'Hara was not injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Kansas man dies in motorcycle, SUV crash

By&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas is making history today, honoring the voices, vision, and impact of women in sports media with the first-ever observance of Women in Sports Broadcasting Day.&nbsp;

The day was proclaimed by Gov. Laura Kelly at the urging of KSN-TV sports anchor and reporter Asia Cymone Smith, whose advocacy turned a personal mission into a statewide recognition. For Smith, the proclamation is more than a ceremonial gesture, it’s a statement of value in an industry where women still make up just 38% of sports broadcasting roles in Kansas, according to a review of recent staff directories from stations in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.&nbsp;

“It’s something that felt surreal, something that I’d been thinking about for a long time,” Smith said. “I wanted to make sure that women, us hard-working women who are also putting in work here, are recognized. This is a testament to the recognition and the work we’ve put in. And it highlights contributions of the former women in sports broadcasting and the ones to come.”&nbsp;

Smith, who also serves as Miss Kansas USA, has made women in sports broadcasting a central part of her public platform. She operates a mentorship initiative called Girls Talk Game, aimed at uplifting young girls who aspire to careers in the field through school visits, group sessions and one-on-one coaching. “I want to be the help that I always wish I had when I first got started,” she said. “I want to be that person that teaches them the ropes so they don’t have to struggle and so they have the same opportunities to learn and get the knowledge they need to succeed.”&nbsp;

That desire was shaped by her own experiences. Early in her career, she was once told, “We’re not here to hold your hand or teach you the ropes.”

It was a moment that stayed with her, and one she vowed not to repeat with the next generation.

“For every little girl who really is watching the TV news and sees us, I want them to know that it’s possible, no matter what other people tell you, when they tell you, you don’t belong in the industry,” Smith said. “Those are comments we get all the time. And I want them to know those people can’t define your success.”&nbsp;

From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.

The proclamation also honors the women who have inspired others on the national stage. It names Kansas-connected journalists such as Becky Dixon, the first woman to co-host ABC’s Wide World of Sports; Aminia Smith, a former sports journalist in Lawrence now hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter; and Kendra Douglas, a former Wichita sports anchor now working as an NBA sideline reporter. Smith said seeing them succeed at such high levels serves as proof of what’s possible. “They’re inspirations to us who are sitting here today,” she said.&nbsp;

Joining Smith in celebrating the day are KAKE-TV sports director Micaela Dea and KWCH-TV multimedia journalist Rachel Hallam. Though they work at competing stations, the three regularly cross paths on the sidelines, at press conferences and in locker rooms, and have forged a bond over shared experiences.

“We see each other all the time,” Dea said. “I knew from the onset of joining this career I wanted to be one of those women that helped other women. If I could have my small part in making that easier for the next woman, that’s amazing. And of course, I want to pay tribute to all the other women before us that have literally trailblazed the way.”&nbsp;

Dea, who became KAKE’s first female sports director last year, said she is encouraged by how far the industry has come. “I can’t imagine where it will be in the next twenty years or the next couple of decades,” she said. “But I definitely am proud to be one of those women in sports that loves to empower other women.”&nbsp;

Hallam said the observance is a meaningful acknowledgment of both the progress made and the challenges that remain. “It means everything,” Hallam said. “It’s hard to be in this industry in the first place, and then how hard it is to be a woman in this industry. Just for everybody to finally recognize that, not just ourselves and not just the other women that are in this industry, but to know that it is still a growing industry and we still have opportunities laid out in front of us.”&nbsp;

Smith said she hopes today’s recognition sparks more opportunities for women in leadership roles, production and high-profile analyst positions in men’s sports. “There’s a lot of leadership positions I think can still be filled,” she said. “Women have completely trailblazed and transformed the sideline reporter role. But why not have those same broadcasters be analysts for the NBA and for the NFL? Our perspective is important and should be shown, too.” She pointed to growing momentum in women’s sports coverage, from WNBA expansion to record-breaking college softball and volleyball crowds, as proof that the appetite is there for more women’s voices. “I think it’s continuing to grow, and that’s great to see,” she said.&nbsp;

From left, Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist; Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Sean Boston, Eagle Media sports director; and Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director, are pictured in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.

While Women in Sports Broadcasting Day is new, those celebrating it hope it becomes an annual touchpoint for progress. “I hope every girl watching sees this and thinks, ‘That can be me,’” Smith said. “Because it absolutely can.”&nbsp;

The proclamation urges Kansans to join in recognizing the achievements of women in sports media and to support ongoing efforts toward equality in the profession. For Smith, Dea and Hallam, that means continuing to show up for each other, and for the young women they hope will follow in their footsteps.&nbsp;

“We’re supposed to be competitors,” Hallam said, “but we’re constantly having each other’s backs. That’s what makes this day so important, it’s a reminder that we’re here, we can do our job, and we’re not going anywhere.”&nbsp;

Kansas marks first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day

WASHINGTON (AP) —A Federal court on Thursday ordered the Department of Agriculture to restore grants to farming organizations.

The court ruled that six grants must be restored to organizations that lost their funding after several Trump administration Executive Orders and at the direction of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The ruling “sets a strong precedent that could allow hundreds of other grants to be challenged and reinstated,” environmental nonprofit Earthjustice said in a statement.

Plaintiffs included groups that support causes like tree planting, climate-friendly farming practices and growing food in underserved communities.

The total value of the terminated grants was over $34 million, the attorneys said.

“In the wake of this ruling, we hope the USDA stops arbitrarily cancelling grants and contracts without an understanding of the work being done,” said Erin McKee, community food systems program director at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, one of the plaintiffs.

Court orders Dept. of Ag to restore grants to farm organizations

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused of child sex crimes is due back in court Monday.

A jury trial is scheduled to begin in Judge Quentin Pittman's courtroom for 39-year-old Jamie Torres-Cordero Wichita,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.

He is charged with rape, 5 counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and 2 counts of aggravated criminal sodomy.

On Sept. 7, 2024 police&nbsp; booked Torres-Cordero into the Sedgwick County Jail after&nbsp;detectives with the Exploited and Missing Children's Unit investigated possible sexual abuse occurring at a home in the 600 block of North Battin in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Police believe Torres-Cordero had engaged in unlawful sexual activity with a minor in the home multiple times over the past six years, according to Macy&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;He remains jailed on a bond of $250,000, according to online jail records.

Jury trial: Kan. man accused of years long sex abuse of child

CAMDEN COUNTY —A child drowned just before 12:30p.m. Sunday at Lake of the Ozarks.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Lowe Pontoon was anchored at 4.8 mile mark of the Glaize arm of the lake. The Tuscumbia, Missouri boy entered the water from the back of the boat and did not resurface. 

State Troopers recovered the child's body and he was transported to Phillips Funeral Home in Eldon. The child was not wearing a life jacket, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Patrol: 3-year-old drowns at Lake of the Ozarks

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

Just after 12:15a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1700 block of E 97th Street in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported sound of shots, according to Officer&nbsp; Alayna Gonzalez.

As they approached the scene, &nbsp;a bystander flagged down &nbsp;officers and reports several people were involved in an altercation that lead to gunfire in a nearby parking lot.

 All involved individuals were observed fleeing in unknown directions prior to police arrival. Officers were notified that a 14-year-old boy and a girl under age 16 arrived to an area hospital suffering from gunshot wounds

The boy, identified as Teandre Gibson was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The girl had non-life threatening injuries. 

Police had no details indicating what lead up to the shooting and have not reported an arrest.. This incident is being investigated as a homicide.

Homicide: 14-year-old KC boy dead, girl hospitalized 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukraine’s future could hinge on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/european-leaders-white-house-meeting-zelenskyy-trump-d7b082bae4136ef8932e16ac2d166303">hastily assembled meeting</a>&nbsp;Monday at the White House as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy brings with him an extraordinary cadre of European leaders to show U.S. President Donald Trump a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-european-statement-084569cce3a6b383325b0a8efa37bc6e">united front against Russia</a>.

The European political heavy-hitters were left out of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-alaska-russia-ukraine-a7b167f17a3e06fbce2f583c93f8bae1">Trump’s summit</a>&nbsp;with Russian President Vladimir Putin last Friday, and they are looking to safeguard Ukraine and the continent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-witkoff-ukraine-russia-putin-war-048aa829a69b4020ca368577bfe18aee">from any widening aggression</a>&nbsp;from Moscow.

By arriving as a group, they hope to avoid any debacles like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-security-guarantees-trump-meeting-washington-eebdf97b663c2cdc9e51fa346b09591d">Zelenskyy’s February meeting in the Oval Office</a>, where Trump chastised him for not showing enough gratitude for American military aid. The meeting also is a test of America’s relationship with its closest allies after the European Union and United Kingdom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-trump-security-tariffs-ukraine-russia-cb323423c4317c89410c0dee3d389753">accepted Trump’s tariff hikes</a>&nbsp;partly because they wanted his support on Ukraine.

European leaders rush to White House to discuss  future of Ukraine

JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri —Law enforcement authorities in Johnson County, Missouri are working to make the public aware of a new drug threat. A Narcan-resistant substance known as "purple fentanyl."

According to a social media report from the sheriff, The Johnson County&nbsp; Crime Resolution Team (CRT) detectives recently seized purple powder containing fentanyl, possibly mixed with lidocaine, originating from the Kansas City area.

"Many families have been affected by fentanyl, and countless individuals are currently struggling with addiction. This reality adds urgency to our efforts to help those in need of recovery support. It is crucial to reach out and offer assistance to those affected."

Unlike traditional opioids such as fentanyl, this purple version may include lidocaine, a local anesthetic that blocks nerve signals but does not respond to Narcan. Narcan, which reverses the effects of opioids, is ineffective against this substance.

The purple color is likely a marketing ploy to attract more users. It's important to note that this color does not indicate the presence of a specific chemical but rather serves to appeal to potential users.

This mixture could intensify the side effects of the drugs, making it even more dangerous. There may also be other variants with different substances, including xylazine, which pose further risks as they are also Narcan-resistant.

Sheriff's warns of Narcan-resistant ‘purple fentanyl’ in KC area 

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement in southwest Kansas have a homicide suspect in custody after an incident at a motel.

Just after 5:30 p.m., August 13, police &nbsp;responded to a business assist call at the Best Western – Emerald Inn &amp; Suites, 2412 E. Kansas Avenue in Garden City, according to a media release from police. 

Motel staff reported that a man was refusing to leave and requested he be criminally trespassed. After arriving, officers made contact with 61-year-old &nbsp;James Eaton. During the investigation, police discovered Eaton had an outstanding felony warrant out of Maryland for failing to appear in court on multiple charges, including homicide. 

Eaton was taken into custody and remains in the Finney County Jail for the out-of-state warrant. &nbsp;Police released no additional details on the charges against Eaton.

Maryland homicide suspect jailed in SW Kansas

The U.S. Military had the opportunity to perform just before the start of the historic summit on Friday in Alaska. &nbsp;The performance lasted just a moment but certainly made an impression on those who saw it.

When President Donald Trump welcomed Russian leader Vladimir Putin to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, a B-2 bomber from Whiteman Air Force Base &nbsp;and four F35 fighter jets flew over the base.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The flyover was among the most successful portions of the historic meeting.&nbsp;Whiteman is located approximately 70 miles southeast of Kansas City.

🎥B-2 stealth bomber flyover at Trump-Putin summit

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Former K-State All-American Michael Beasley was selected as the BIG3 Most Valuable Player in a vote by league players and coaches on Friday night (August 15), repeating the honor he won for the first time in 2024.

The BIG3 is a 12-team, 3-on-3 basketball league that was founded by hip-hop musician and actor Ice Cube and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz in 2017. Rosters include both former NBA and international players in a variation of 3-on-3 basketball seen in FIBA and the Olympics.

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