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Project Salina has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the&nbsp; Kansas Masonic Foundation, in partnership with Salina Lodge 60. Representatives from the&nbsp; Finance and Charity Committees of Salina Lodge 60 presented the check to Project Salina board members on Wednesday, October 8.&nbsp;

As the philanthropic arm of Kansas Masons, the Kansas Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Kansas communities and supporting fellow Masons and their families. Since its inception, the foundation has invested more than $50 million in Kansas communities and individuals through academic, scientific, and charitable initiatives. Salina Lodge 60 has been an active part of the Salina community since 1867. So far this year, the lodge has contributed more than $16,000 in donations to local scholarships and community organizations.&nbsp;

Founded in 1990 by Jack Parr and Jane Kramer, Project Salina is a local nonprofit committed to&nbsp; fighting hunger in Salina. Recognizing that food donations often peak during the holidays but decline in the summer—when demand for food assistance is highest—Project Salina works to&nbsp; fill that gap. The organization partners with six agencies: the Emergency Aid Food Bank, the Salvation Army, the Salina Rescue Mission, the Ashby House, DVACK, and Salina Grace.&nbsp;

Each year from May 1 to May 31, Project Salina collects cash and food donations to purchase food for its partner agencies. When supplies run low, agencies turn to Project Salina, which uses&nbsp; donated funds to keep their shelves stocked.&nbsp;

The $5,000 grant from the Kansas Masonic Foundation will directly support this mission, helping to keep food supplies strong so local agencies can continue serving individuals and&nbsp; families in need. Learn about how you can help Project Salina at:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.projectsalina.com/">https://www.projectsalina.com/&nbsp;</a>

For more information about the Kansas Masonic Foundation, visit:

<a href="https://kansasmasonicfoundation.org">https://kansasmasonicfoundation.org</a>.&nbsp;

Kansas Masonic Foundation awards $5,000 grant to Project Salina 

The Salina Senior Theatre Project will close its 5th season with&nbsp;"An Evening Of One Acts"&nbsp;featuring four performances titled "Blue Sky With Approaching Storm," "Bank Robbery ?," "You Know Your Old When"&nbsp;and "Just The Facts Ma'am."

The shows will be presented Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25 at 7:00 pm at the Salvation Army Chapel&nbsp;(1137 N Santa Fe). The cast includes local talents such as, Danton McDiffett, Stephanie Silcott-McDiffett, Temprance Schreiner, Jan Oberle, Bethanny Carter,&nbsp;Amanda Lynn, Bob Hunter, Bob Sears, Wally Hitchcock, Terri Levin, Carol Bragg and Don Ratzlaff.&nbsp;

Tickets will go on sale Monday, October 13.&nbsp;

Tickets will be $10 in advance at the Salvation Army front desk (785)-823-2251 or at the door the night of each performance.

Refreshments will be provided and drawing for door prizes.&nbsp;Half of the proceeds received will go toward the Salvation Army Repair Fund.

Salina Senior Theatre Project closes 5th season with 4 performances

Red Fern Booksellers has announced their third local Authors Fair will occur, for another chance to meet authors from across the state.

On Sunday, October 19 from&nbsp;3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Red Fern Booksellers (106 S. Santa Fe Ave), Kansan&nbsp;authors expected to make an appearance include: Jamie Bosse, Willa R. Finnegan, Tim (T.D.) Keane, Sherry Krehbiel, Mary L. Schmidt, Julie Stielstra, Michael Travis and Randall Weber.

Each of these authors will have their books available for purchase. Several genres will be represented at this fair, including Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Romance, Mystery, Poetry, and General Fiction.&nbsp;

Click <a href="https://redfernbooksellers.com/">here</a> for the Red Fern Booksellers website.

Red Fern hosting 3rd local Authors Fair Oct. 19

On Thursday, Salina Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a grand opening event for Dacus Auto Body and Collision Repair.

&nbsp;Co-owners Chris and Kena Dacus started Dacus Auto Body in McPherson 11 years ago. This past May, Dacus purchased Crossroads Collision from the previous owners, who were looking to retire. Located at&nbsp;1334 N Ohio, Dacus Auto Body and Collision Repair uses the same production staff as Crossroads Collision while also bringing in new workers to the site.&nbsp;

"I have a lot of connections to Salina from my childhood," said Kena Dacus. "It's been really welcoming and really nice."

Kena Dacus also announced that among the 17 OEM certifications Dacus Auto Body already holds, they recently received certification for Rivian, an electric vehicle manufacturer. Dacus hopes to continue to grow and provide new services to the Salina community.

For more information about&nbsp;Dacus Auto Body and Collision Repair, click <a href="https://www.dacusauto.com/#SalinaLocationHome">here</a>.

Chamber of Commerce celebrates body shop grand opening

The Salvation Army Thrift Store in Salina has long been more than just a place to shop for affordable clothing, furniture and household goods. It is a vital part of The Salvation Army’s mission to serve those in need. 

But, the store faces a serious challenge: 

Without an increase in sales and donations, the store may be forced to close its doors.

The store, located at 157 S. 5th Street, directly funds local programs that provide food, emergency shelter, financial assistance, and spiritual care to individuals and families in Salina. Every purchase made and every item donated stays in Salina, helping neighbors right here in our community.

“When you shop or donate at our thrift store, you are doing more than finding a bargain—you are helping a family keep the lights on, feeding a child who might otherwise go hungry, or giving hope to someone who feels forgotten,” said Lt. Luke Hursh. “Without this store, much of that support could disappear.”

· Affordable goods for families and individuals.

· Emergency Assistance for local families or individuals who are in need after an unexpected emergency.

· Direct funding for The Salvation Army’s programs in Salina.

Closing the store would mean a significant loss, not only to those who rely on affordable shopping but also to the many who benefit from the vital services the store helps fund.

“We are asking the community to rally around this ministry,” said Lt. Hursh. “Whether it’s by shopping a little more often, donating gently used items, or spreading the word, every act of support helps keep this mission alive.”

Community members are encouraged to donate gently used clothing, electronics, small furniture, and household goods, and to make shopping at The Salvation Army Thrift Store a part of their weekly routine. Together, the community can help keep the store open and ensure The Salvation Army continues its mission of “Doing the Most Good” in Salina.

Donations and Shopping Hours: The Salvation Army Thrift Store

157 S. 5th Street, Salina, KS 67401 Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm Donation Hours: Monday – Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm

Salvation Army of Salina Thrift Store faces financial strain: Needing community support to keep doors open

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7a.m. Friday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Chrysler Voyager driven by Arianna Lyn&nbsp;Ortiz,&nbsp; 21, Kansas City, Kansas, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Kansas 14 Ellsworth South exit. The Van rear-ended a 2022 Ford pickup driven by Shawn Michael Barnicle, 57, Justin, Texas, who was slowing for another crash ahead in the road.

EMS transported a passenger in the van identified as Matthew Lee Shorman, 35, Hays to&nbsp; Ellsworth County Medical Center. The drivers were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after I-70 rear-end crash

Salina Parks &amp; Recreation has announced they will begin removing the current playground at Kenwood Park and replacing it for a brand new play experience.

According to Salina Parks &amp; Rec Director, Jeff Hammond the current playground will be demolished on Monday, October 13. He added the City has a playground replacement plan for all 29 playgrounds and the Kenwood playground was chosen to be replaced due to 'age and condition.'

The current playground is 35 years old. Hammond stated a playground's longevity is about 15-20 years.

Installation of the new playground is expected to begin in November (weather permitting and possibility of delays from manufacturers).

Hammond added the playground at Bill Burke Park will be replaced as well. There was no date given for demolition or completion on that.

Playground at Kenwood Park set to be demolished and replaced

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man&nbsp; who admitted to vandalizing a&nbsp; church in Wichita learned his fate on Friday.

&nbsp;Judge Tyler Roush sentenced Michael Gonzalez, 23, of Saline County,&nbsp;to 34 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections&nbsp; for his role in the significant vandalism and criminal desecration at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In July Gonzalez pleaded guilty to felony charges: of burglary and criminal desecration and two misdemeanor charges of theft and criminal damage to property.

Just after 8:30a.m. March 15, police responded to a reported burglary at St. Patrick Catholic Church, located in the 2000 block of N. Arkansas Street in Wichita, according to Wichita Police spokesman Brad Wright.

Officers discovered significant vandalism, including hate speech and damage to items such as statues, candles, and glass. Notably, a United States flag had been burned.

Recognizing the severity of this crime, Wichita Police and investigators—alongside federal law enforcement partners including the FBI and ATF—immediately launched a full-scale investigation. The Wichita Police dedicated Crime Scene Investigation team worked diligently to analyze evidence, leading to the swift identification of a suspect.

Officers from the Wichita Police Field Community Response Teams were provided with critical intelligence and began searching for the suspect. At approximately 2:20 a.m. March 16, officers located and arrested Gonzalez in the 2800 block of N. Hillside in Wichita without incident.

&nbsp;Gonzalez remains jailed on bonds totaling over $500,000, according to online jail records.

Prison time for for extreme vandalism at Kansas church

DICKINSON COUNTY - After a ten month long illegal drug investigation, Dickinson County law enforcement arrested four suspects with a possibility of more.

According to the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office, on December 2024 the Sheriff's Drug Enforcement Unit began the investigation after an alleged distribution of&nbsp;Methamphetamine that occurred in Herington.

This investigation took approximately 10 months, until on Thursday, October 9, 2025, deputies conducted a search warrant at a residence in the 500 Block of South A Street in Herington. Reportedly, the search revealed&nbsp;Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, Cocaine, Marijuana, and other controlled substances inside the home.

Deputies also arrested four people from the home with the assistance of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Junction City Police Department and the Herington Police Department.&nbsp;

Those suspects arrested were identified as:

- Charles Miller, 48, Woodbine, KS (requested charges:&nbsp;Distribution of Methamphetamine; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with the Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Distribution of Controlled Substance using communication facility; No Drug Tax Stamp)

-&nbsp;Tyrone Wynne, 44, Herington, KS (requested charges:&nbsp;Distribution of Methamphetamine; Possession of Methamphetamine with intent to distribute; Distribution of Controlled Substance using communication facility; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with the Intent to Distribute; No Drug Tax Stamp)

-&nbsp;Jessica Christyauntie, 44, Herington, KS (requested charges:&nbsp;Distribution of Methamphetamine; Distribution of Controlled Substance using communication facility; No Drug Tax Stamp)

-&nbsp;AnneMarie Foxx-Cupp, 48, Florence, KS (requested charges:&nbsp;Distribution of Methamphetamine; No Drug Tax Stamp; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute)

Each suspect was booked into the Dickinson County Jail.

The investigation is ongoing and additional arrests, as well as charges are possible.&nbsp;

Anyone with information regarding the use/distribution of illegal drugs or any other crime can contact the Dickinson County Sheriff’s office at (785) 263-4081.

People can submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Dickinson County at 1-888-535-8477 or the Crime Stoppers online/mobile app via <a href="http://www.p3tips.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExb0hCOW41ZWFJMktvSUhjMwEe9ZmBmayRRSkleZWieJwkIWAiLlCLyXYov33cZr7q7kwh4D0ntiU9dQ5JTAY_aem_VllhKqeZ7Pr1AQdMv_Y9Bw" target="_blank">www.p3tips.com.</a>

Ten month long illegal drug investigation results in 4 arrests

I am Dr. Trent Davis, and I’m running for re-election to the Salina City Commission.

I was born and raised in Washington, D.C. After high school, I planned to become a Lutheran minister—but life had other plans, and I was blessed instead to become a physician. I have called Salina my home since 1999 and am still actively practicing Neurology. I also serve as a Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at the KU School of Medicine–Salina, and I’ve been honored to serve on the City Commission since 2014.

My wife, Dr. Pamela B. Davis, is a Radiologist in Salina and also active in activities that build the social fabric of our community. Pam is the sister of Dr. Mace Braxton who started the heart surgery program at SRHC in 1998. We have a blended family of six children, one of whom we sadly lost in September 2024. Our three sons were raised here in Salina and graduated from Salina Central High School; their two older sisters live in the Washington, D.C. area. Our doggie is the famous Halle Berry, nine pounds of Pompoo royalty!

Our families have long emphasized character development, confidence, and education. Among our children are four physicians (three KU graduates!) and one MPH who was ordained a minister in 2024.

My introduction to civic engagement came in the early 2000s, when I helped lead the charge for Kansas’ first Clean Indoor Air Act—banning smoking in local businesses—an initiative that later became state law. Since then, I’ve served on the Salina–Saline County Board of Health (as its last chair before restructuring), as well as the Boards of Salina Community Access TV, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the NAACP, and as President of the SRHC Medical Staff. I also worked on the successful

petition to expand the Saline County Commission from three to five members. Other activities include the Church Council at St. John’s Lutheran Church and the Salina Downtown Lions Club.

Appointed to the City Commission in 2014, I’ve since been re-elected three times. To prepare for my term as Mayor in 2019, I completed KU’s Certified Public Management program to strengthen my communication and analytical skills while serving as Vice Mayor in 2018. I have ardently pushed for economic incentives that have resulted in expansion of Salina’s commercial air service and related aerospace industries.

My favorite color is cerulean blue, my favorite pastime is throwing a Frisbee on the beach, some of my favorite books are The Power of Positive Thinking and Leading When You’re Not in Charge. And, of course, my favorite football team—no surprise—is the Chiefs!

I am a modest person, and my life is full and rewarding, but because I love this city I want to continue the momentum and progress that make Salina such a special place.

Since 2014, I’ve been proud to help guide Salina’s downtown renaissance—from the early talks about a Downtown Fieldhouse, through growing pains, to the vibrant destination we now enjoy.

The Commission’s work often involves balancing big ideas and tough realities—supporting job growth, small business expansion, the arts, housing development, public safety, and infrastructure. Much of it’s work is reactive – issues brought to us, rather than from us -- from neighborhood concerns to complex social challenges like homelessness and public health. I have a calm, steady presence—quick to listen, slow to anger—to navigate it all.

A friend once suggested Salina’s motto could be “Salina … in the Middle of Everywhere.” That “everywhere” reflects more than geography: it’s our diversity,

opportunity, and drive to grow. Salina’s competition isn’t just nearby towns—it’s the world. We need leaders unafraid to engage it.

As I see it, the City Commission is like the old BASF ad: “We don’t make the products you use; we make them better.” Our role is to be the catalyst—helping the people and organizations who make Salina thrive. Government isn’t about grabbing the spotlight, but about creating the conditions where others can shine. And while rules are necessary to protect fairness and safety, it’s our job to recognize when they’re outdated and adapt them for the future.

I want to be your City Commissioner because Salina deserves steady leadership—someone experienced, patient, and committed to managing your tax dollars responsibly. This is a dynamic city, and the Commission faces a constant stream of new challenges. Experience matters and you deserve someone honorable and dependable.

We don’t need single-issue candidates or those quick to shout that their way is the only way. I believe in listening first, learning always, and respecting every viewpoint brought to the table. As my father-in-law wisely said:

“If you have to yell louder, you need a better argument.”

Salina’s future depends on investing wisely—not in a fantasy of “no taxes,” but in sustainable progress that exceeds the length of our terms and serves generations to come. I believe it’s time to focus on our human infrastructure:

· Keeping our kids in school and out of jail

I’ve been here, working with our community to make these goals real. I’d be honored to continue that work.

I appreciate your confidence and your vote—early or on November 4, 2025—to keep Salina moving forward.

Meet City Commission Candidate: Dr. Trent Davis

<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>.

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 10 - October 12

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 8 - October 10

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 6 - October 8

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 3 - October 5

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 1 - October 3

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 29 - October 1

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 26 - September 28

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/">weathe</a>

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 24 - September 26

As Tuesday morning's showers continue throughout Central Kansas,&nbsp; flooding remains a possibility.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) the severity remains low for these scattered showers and storms throughout the region on Tuesday. However, heavy rainfall amounts and flooding are a possibility.&nbsp;

Please stay alert on the roadways and be safe while driving.

Flooding remains possible with Tuesday morning's showers 

The US National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita forecasts severe thunderstorms are expected to develop after midnight tonight and continue into Tuesday morning across Central Kansas.

According to NWS Wichita, these storms are likely to produce high rainfall rates, which may lead to flooding. Storms are expected to move in from the west after midnights, with most locations in Saline County after 3:00 am. The heaviest rainfall is likely between 4:00 am and noon Tuesday.

Saline County Emergency Management stated there is slightly lower confidence on how large hailstones may get, but the confidence is in the heavy rainfall and flooding potential has been increasing.

Severe storms with heavy rainfall amounts expected after midnight in Central Kansas

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 20-year-old&nbsp; Za’marion V. Taylor, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

Just before 6p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting at a convenience store in the 1300 block of Bannister Road in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Becchina.

On arrival officers were directed to a shooting victim, later identified as Taylor, unresponsive on the ground next to the business. Officers rendered aid and called for EMS who responded and declared him deceased at the scene. Homicide detectives responded to&nbsp; the scene and canvassed for any witnesses.

Preliminary investigation indicates that Taylor had an interaction with an unknown suspect in the parking lot of the business that escalated to gunfire which struck him. Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

Police ID victim in KC business parking lot killing

WASHINGTON (AP) — First lady Melania Trump says eight Ukrainian children have been reunited with their families after ongoing talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Melania Trump in August wrote a letter to Putin and had her husband hand-deliver it during his meeting with the Russian president in Alaska.

Putin’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in Russia&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukrainian-children-russia-7493cb22c9086c6293c1ac7986d85ef6">taking Ukrainian children</a>&nbsp;out of their country so that they can be raised as Russian.

The first lady, speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday, said that Putin responded to her letter and after that, they had established an “open channel of communication” regarding the welfare of those children.

“We have agreed to cooperate with each other for the benefit of all people involved in this war,” she said.

The Associated Press documented the grabbing of Ukrainian children in 2022, after which the International Criminal Court said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/icc-putin-war-crimes-ukraine-9857eb68d827340394960eccf0589253">had issued an arrest warrant</a>&nbsp;for Putin for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.

🎥First lady reveals talks with Putin over kidnapped Ukraine children

WASHINGTON (AP) —A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-wic-food-a6d66fa0ce3d02257b5b43a79355b1bf">food aid program</a>&nbsp;that supports millions of low-income mothers and their young children received a $300 million infusion from the Trump administration this week, alleviating some anxiety that it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wic-government-shutdown-food-aid-7b1d5fc317b25b79015ea335197f37bd">run out of money</a>&nbsp;during the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children helps more than 6 million low-income mothers, young children and expectant parents to purchase nutritious staples like fruits and vegetables, low-fat milk and infant formula. The program, known as WIC, was at risk of running out of money this month because of the government shutdown, which occurred right before it was slated to receive its annual appropriation.

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said this week in a post&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/PressSec/status/1975642840416780535">on the social platform X</a>&nbsp;that the White House had found “a creative solution” to use tariff revenues to keep the program afloat. By Thursday at least some states were receiving WIC money. Alaska and Washington said they received enough federal funds to keep their programs running until at least the end of October.

WIC food program receives $300M to keep running during gov't shutdown

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal shooting in Wichita have arrested a suspect.

A 52-year-old male from Wichita is in custody following a deadly shooting Thursday evening at the American Legion located at 1335 N. Hydraulic in Wichita.

Just before 7:30p.m. Thursday, police responded to a report of a shooting inside the American Legion, 1135 North Hydraulic in Wichita, according t a media release.&nbsp;

First responders found 55-year-old Anthony Grayson from Wichita unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 7:55 p.m.

A second victim, a 56-year-old man, arrived at a hospital by private vehicle with a gunshot wound to the torso. He was reported in serious but stable condition late Friday.

Investigators confirmed that the suspect identified from Sedgwick County booking records as Darrell E. Buckner, Jr., and Grayson were involved in a fight inside the bar. Buckner then left, retrieved a firearm from his vehicle, and returned. Employees attempted to prevent him from reentering, but he pushed past them and went back inside, where another fight broke out. During the altercation, Buckner fired the gun, striking Grayson and the second victim, who was attempting to intervene.

The suspect was taken into custody at the scene and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on charges of first-degree murder and aggravated battery. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charges.

“This is deeply frustrating,” said Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan. “Once again, someone has lost their life, not because of a stranger, but because an argument between friends turned violent. Every act of violence begins with a choice. When someone decides to bring a gun into an argument, that is an intentional act, and that choice destroys lives, families, and neighborhoods.”

Chief Sullivan added that while the department continues to use technology and community partnerships to identify suspects and solve cases quickly, the broader fight against violence requires shared responsibility.

“We have a 96% homicide clearance rate, overall part 1 crime arrests are up 12% compared to this time last year. This reflects our ongoing commitment to victims of violent crimes. But it doesn’t prevent a homicide when the people involved already know each other,” Sullivan said.

“Law enforcement cannot be everywhere,” he continued. “Families, friends, neighbors, and other law enforcement partners all play a role in stopping violence before it happens. When someone decides that they are going out to drink and brings a gun with them, that is an intentional act. That is a choice they made that creates a potential for tragedy."

Kansas man jailed for deadly fight at American Legion Hall

Representative Sharice Davids hosted an online meeting alongside Kansans whose industries have been directly affected by the government shutdown. Those participants shared personal and professional stories, including how the shutdown impacts mental health services and infrastructure projects at home. 

According to a statement from her office, Davids has&nbsp;<a href="https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-statement-consequential-government-shutdown">repeatedly</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RepDavids/status/1976034161975755107" target="_blank">advocated</a>&nbsp;for a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/RepDavids/status/1973457458971771127" target="_blank">bipartisan solution</a>&nbsp;to reopen the government and safeguard the livelihoods of Kansans.&nbsp;

“This shutdown is a devastating blow to our economy and represents real consequences for hardworking Kansans,” said&nbsp;Davids. “I’m committed to working with both parties to find a commonsense, bipartisan solution to reopen the government and ensure Kansans are protected from skyrocketing health care costs. As we heard today, there’s too much at stake for this to go on any longer.”

At today’s press conference, Davids was joined by Tim DeWeese of Johnson County Mental Health Center, Haley Kottler of Kansas Appleseed, Keely Schneider of Workforce Partnership, and Sarah White of the Missouri &amp; Associated Rivers Coalition (MOARC) to highlight how the ongoing government shutdown is affecting Kansans. Mental health services face delays and reduced access, workforce training and small business support are stalled, vital river and infrastructure projects are slowed, and nutrition assistance programs like SNAP and WIC are at risk — putting families, workers, and communities across the state in jeopardy.

Davids is pushing for a bipartisan agreement to reopen the government and protect Kansans from the consequences of partisan gridlock in D.C. She recently announced her support for two bills: one to guarantee pay for&nbsp;<a href="https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/davids-backs-effort-keep-air-travel-safe-employees-paid-during-government">aviation workers</a>&nbsp;and another to ensure&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5401/cosponsors" target="_blank">active-duty service members</a>&nbsp;continue receiving their paychecks. Kansas is home to more than&nbsp;<a href="https://usafacts.org/answers/how-many-civilian-jobs-are-in-the-us-federal-government/state/kansas/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">25,000</a>&nbsp;federal employees and more than&nbsp;<a href="https://download.militaryonesource.mil/12038/MOS/Reports/2020-demographics-report.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">21,000</a>&nbsp;active-duty service members.

A shutdown has serious&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jec.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/democrats/issue-briefs/?id=B7FCE9F4-4DFE-495C-8263-AD277CE4716B" target="_blank">impacts</a>&nbsp;on Kansas families and the overall U.S. economy. Americans now face disruptions to important benefits, service members are not being compensated, many small businesses have altered their operations, and federal workers have been furloughed without pay. Specifically:&nbsp;

While Davids works to reopen the government, Kansans impacted by the shutdown can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://davids.house.gov/shutdown">davids.house.gov/shutdown</a>&nbsp;for resources that may help during this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥Kan. Congresswoman met with Kansans affected by gov't shutdown 

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;is in “exceptional health,” his physician said Friday after he underwent a checkup that included lab tests and preventive health assessments at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Trump spent roughly three hours at the Bethesda, Maryland, hospital earlier Friday for what his doctor, Navy Capt. Sean Barbabella, called a “scheduled follow-up evaluation” that was a “part of his ongoing health maintenance plan.” While there, Trump also got his yearly flu shot, as well as a COVID-19 booster vaccine.

“President Donald J. Trump remains in exceptional health, exhibiting strong cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological and physical performance,” Barbabella wrote in a one-page memo released Friday night by the White House. The doctor noted in the memo that the evaluation helped prepare for Trump’s upcoming overseas trips and included advanced imaging, lab testing and preventive health assessments.

The president is traveling to the Middle East this weekend and is scheduled to fly to Asia at the end of this month.

Barbabella also said he evaluated Trump’s cardiac age, which was about 14 years younger than his chronological age. Trump is 79 and was the oldest U.S. president at his inauguration.

The White House this week initially described Trump’s Walter Reed visit as a “routine yearly checkup,” although Trump had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-physical-weight-loss-oldest-president-75913b1e114cec64ae0acab1389118b2">his annual physical</a>&nbsp;in April. The president then called it a “semiannual physical.”

Trump’s April physical found that he was “fully fit” to serve as commander in chief. The three-page summary of the exam done by Barbabella then said he had lost 20 pounds (9 kilograms) since a medical exam in June 2020 and said he has an “active lifestyle” that “continues to contribute significantly” to the well-being of the president.

In July, the White House announced that Trump had recently undergone a medical checkup after noticing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-swelling-legs-chronic-venous-insufficiency-health-40beb3c818cfb914645db9d1f143fdd8">“mild swelling” in his lower legs</a>&nbsp;and was found to have a condition common in older adults that causes blood to pool in his veins. Tests by the White House medical unit showed that Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chronic-venous-insufficiency-trump-c2e8884d5e5debd1a0c156cb0060928a">chronic venous insufficiency</a>, which occurs when little valves inside the veins that normally help move blood against gravity gradually lose the ability to work properly.

At the April physical, Trump also passed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-cognitive-test-neurology-brain-memory-522ecf3c0d746f4105ce7d4416422ba6">a short screening test</a>&nbsp;to assess different brain functions.

Presidents have large discretion over what health information they choose to release to the public. Trump’s summary from his April exam included information about his weight, body mass index, past surgeries, mental health screenings, cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

When spokesperson Karoline Leavitt discussed the results of his chronic venous insufficiency diagnosis from the briefing room, she noted that the White House was disclosing details of the checkup to dispel rumors about Trump’s health. At the time, Trump was frequently observed with bruising on his hand.

The Republican president has also repeatedly used the issue of health as a political cudgel. He repeatedly questioned the mental and physical health of his Democratic predecessor, President Joe Biden, and pointed out that he has undergone cognitive testing that Biden hadn’t.

Biden has brushed aside those criticisms and said he was fit to serve, but he dropped out of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024">the 2024 race</a>&nbsp;for the White House after a disastrous debate with Trump raised doubts about his fitness for office.

Read the physician report from President Trump's checkup on Friday

LYON COUNTY–A juvenile is under investigation for setting a house fire in Emporia.

Just before 4:30pm Saturday, September 20, the Emporia Fire Department responded to a reported house fire in the 1100 block of Constitution Street in Emporia, according to a media release. Fire crews encountered an active fire within the home and acted swiftly to bring the incident under control.

After the fire was out, the&nbsp;Emporia Fire Department's Fire Investigators conducted a thorough investigation into the cause and origin of the fire. Based on evidence collected, the fire has been classified as incendiary, indicating it was intentionally set.

Intentionally set fires represent a significant threat to life, property, and public safety. The Emporia Fire Department remains committed to diligently investigating such incidents to identify those responsible and ensure public safety.

As a result of the investigation, a juvenile has been referred to the Lyon County Attorney’s Office for possible charges. Due to the individual’s age, authorities released no additional details.

Juvenile faces charges for allegedly starting Kan. house fire

Kan. governor responds to 'childish attacks from public officials'

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;is the speaker of a House that is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">no longer in session</a>.

The Republican leader sent lawmakers home&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-trump-funding-bill-republicans-shutdown-1fea0f79c85ec69b91d9789fbda00834">three weeks ago</a>&nbsp;after the House approved a bill to fund the federal government. They haven’t been back in working session since. And on Friday, his leadership team announced they won’t be returning next week either.

In the intervening time, the government has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-congress-138fd09f4476dcf142be6e9bbc42a592">shut down</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;began a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-federal-worker-firings-0439e8d0979d9a32e021c5c851fea1cf">mass firing of federal workers</a>. And a Democrat,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-congress-grijalva-butierez-1d9fe8fd6f0604f8064f67f6d8cfdca7">Adelita Grijalva</a>, won a special election in Arizona but has not been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-files-adelita-grijalva-arizona-congress-d52af4b1471a3ed6cd9f0803f711ed64">sworn into office</a>&nbsp;to take her seat in Congress.

“People are upset. I’m upset. I’m a very patient man, but I am angry right now,” Johnson said during one of his almost daily press conferences on the empty side of the Capitol.

“I’m doing our job. We passed the bill,” he said Friday, as he left the building. “It’s on the Senate. They’re the ones playing games. All the questions need to be for them.”

The House’s absence is creating a risky political dilemma for Johnson. It’s testing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/speaker-johnson-trump-tax-bill-christian-prayer-f82ed140d9110d5cc7b4029b681ea9eb">his leadership</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-mike-johnson-majority-trump-election-65d7217e4541cd314849c9a0da2b0081">his grip on the gavel</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ufc-house-speaker-johnson-madison-square-garden-995a7ee3324e04ec6da680c826136655">the legacy he will leave</a>&nbsp;as speaker of a House that is essentially writing itself off the page at a crucial moment in the national debate.

There are few easy choices on the schedule ahead. If the speaker calls lawmakers back to Washington, he opens the doors to a potentially&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/senators-from-arizona-confront-speaker-johnson-about-not-swearing-in-democratic-colleague-c952e6858c52443fa0edd2fbd95cd16b">chaotic atmosphere</a>&nbsp;of anger, uncertainty and his own GOP defections and divisions as the shutdown drags on.

But by keeping the representatives away going on a fourth week, lawmakers risk being criticized for being absent during a crisis — “on vacation,” as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-jeffries-sombrero-hats-cb8281193a071b812020ba5dd1c3db78">House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries</a>&nbsp;puts it — as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-pay-government-shutdown-congress-trump-e2eabd75a923a7a6feaeeb4af1854054">military goes without pay</a>&nbsp;and government services shut down.

Johnson’s initial strategy to avoid the government shutdown was a well-worn one — have the House pass its bill, leave town right before the deadline and force the Senate to accept it. Jamming the other chamber, as it’s often called. And it often works.

But this time, it’s a strategy that is failing.

As House skips town, blame falls to Senate

GOP senators have been unable to heave the House bill to passage,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-senate-schumer-thune-trump-health-care-b85fe6cdd5d8cdc3e3aa1f4ae889474f">blocked by most of the Democrats</a>, who are refusing to reopen the government as they demand health care funds for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">insurance subsidies</a>&nbsp;that will expire at year’s end if Congress fails to act.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-thune-ap-interview-omb-memo-6b79cd64987b6173f1b3295dc3505994">Senate Majority Leader John Thune</a>, R-S.D., has been trying, repeatedly, to peel off more Democratic support.

But after having called a vote more than a half-dozen times to pass the House’s bill out of the Senate, not enough Democrats have signed on. Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/charles-schumer">Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer</a>&nbsp;is holding out for a deal on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-tax-credits-health-insurance-trump-poll-obamacare-dab7b10bf13dec33a884df5f9fe343f6">the health care issue</a>.

Stalemated, quiet talks are underway, as small groups of lawmakers are privately trying to negotiate off-ramps.

Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska has proposed keeping the health care subsidies in place for the next two years while instituting changes to the program. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., has a similar proposal, and GOP Sen. Susan Collins of Maine has shared with leadership her own six-point plan.

“We’re making progress,” said Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., who is close to the Republican president. “I think we’re kind of starting to get to a place.”

Not since then-Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nancy-pelosi">Nancy Pelosi</a>, a Democrat, sent lawmakers home at the start of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-donald-trump-business-ap-top-news-steven-mnuchin-502a3b1afb9c5d1bc14e6af77d112207">the coronavirus pandemic</a>&nbsp;in 2020 has the House been without its lawmakers for such an extended period of time outside of an August recess — but even then, leaders quickly stood up a new system of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/history-in-the-making-as-house-casts-proxy-votes-in-pandemic-6f6fb7ab7ca80360117e0664d4b45682">proxy voting</a>&nbsp;as legislative business continued.

In the Capitol’s empty halls, a few lawmakers linger. They have been filming social media posts as they narrate the inaction. They have created viral moments, including GOP Rep. Mike Lawler’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-donald-trump-business-ap-top-news-steven-mnuchin-502a3b1afb9c5d1bc14e6af77d112207">confrontation with Jeffries</a>. Some are simply giving tours to visiting constituents.

GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia has been among the most outspoken critics of her party’s stance, saying Congress needs to address the health care subsidies.

And Grijalva is just&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/adelita-grijalva-swear-congress-epstein-files-25636fec1d99960a5fb11501ac86cc69">trying to go to work</a>.

The representative-elect won the special election to replace her father, veteran Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/raul-grijalva-death-obituary-9484cd0f4911430ef6ef01f9590402d5">Raul Grijalva</a>, who died earlier this year after his own career in Congress.

Her arrival would shrink Johnson’s already slim majority to paper thin, and she has said she would sign onto the legislation demanding the release of the files pertaining to the sex trafficking investigation into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>, providing the last signature needed to force a vote. Democrats have clamored for the release of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-files-senate-trump-1793c4c1c2f74f89b0cab9ecfd0cfcc8">the Epstein files</a>, looking to force Republicans to either join their push for disclosure or publicly oppose a cause many in the Republican base support.

Johnson, whose majority is among the most narrow in modern times, has refused to swear Grijalva into office.

The speaker has given shifting reasons for why he won’t allow Grijalva to take her seat, saying he’d do it whenever she wanted but also saying the shutdown needs to end first.

He said it has nothing to do with the Epstein files.

As questions mounted over the House’s next steps, so did the speaker’s exasperation.

“The reason the House isn’t here in regular session is because they turned the lights off,” he said during Thursday’s press conference. “I’m trying to muster every ounce of Christian charity that I can, but this is outrageous.”

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