Teaching literacy skills to children in their earliest years does far more than prepare them to read — it helps build the very foundation of their brain development, say two Kansas State University Extension agents.

“We’re really laying the foundation from ages zero to 3 with all of the opportunities for kids to learn,” said Monique Koerner, family and consumer wellness agent for K-State Extension’s Cottonwood District. “We know that brain development is huge in those early years, and literacy is a piece of that puzzle.”

According to the K-State Extension fact sheet,&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/early-literacy-building-the-foundation-for-lifelong-learning-fact-sheet_MF3691">Early Literacy: Building the Foundation for Lifelong Learning,</a>&nbsp;brain growth is rapid in a child’s first three years, and language and literacy activities help form lasting neural connections.

From birth to 12 months, babies are already busy wiring their brains for communication. Lisa Newman, family and consumer wellness agent in the Central Kansas District, said that even newborns recognize familiar voices.

“You can take a newborn, and they already recognize Mom and Dad’s voices, even siblings,” Newman said. “You can see evidence of that when they turn their heads toward those voices shortly after birth.”

Newman added that talking to infants throughout the day — whether during diaper changes, in the car, or at bedtime — helps strengthen those language pathways.

“Reading to your child every day, even from the get-go, is important because what’s really happening during that time is language development and making those brain connections even stronger,” she said.

It’s also well known that babies are much more able to process and learn various languages than adults are able to do.

“If you take a baby that’s born in Kansas, and take them somewhere to a foreign land, those connections can be strengthened by hearing the language that’s around them,” Newman said. “That’s why it’s easier to learn an additional language when you’re young — those brain connections are there and can be strengthened.”

Koerner added that “the plasticity of the brain is greater when we’re younger,” making early exposure to multiple languages especially beneficial.

Between 12 and 24 months, children begin to use expressive language. “By 18 months or so, children pretty much understand everything that’s being said to them,” Koerner said, “but they may not be able to speak it yet.”

Words like ‘Mama,’ ‘Dada,’ and ‘ball’ often appear first, followed by simple two-word phrases around age 2.

“Oftentimes you’ll see that language explosion around 18 months,” Newman said. “That expressive piece really starts to blossom during that time.”

From ages 2 to 3, children’s vocabularies expand rapidly, fueled by everyday conversations and shared reading. “Books can expose children to new topics and new words that might not be part of their everyday experiences,” Koerner said.

Koerner encourages parents to use “parallel talk” — describing what a child is doing — and “self-talk,” or narrating their own actions throughout the day. “Just really enriching their vocabulary by talking about what they’re doing,” she said.

Repetition also helps build connections. “There may be a treasured book they want to read over and over again, and that’s perfectly normal,” Newman said. “Repetition is part of their literacy and language skill.”

Exploring new places and experiences adds another layer of learning. “It’s so important for parents to get children out and explore new things,” Koerner said. “That will expose them to new opportunities, new vocabulary, and new experiences that help the brain develop.”

Both agents emphasized that parents are their children’s first teachers. Trusted programs such as Parents as Teachers, Early Head Start, and Infant-Toddler Services can guide families who have questions about developmental milestones.

Simple routines also matter. The American Academy of Pediatrics promotes the “Brush, Book, Bed” approach — brushing teeth, reading, and then going to bed. “It sets parents up for a good bedtime routine and supports brain health,” Koerner said.

Newman noted that any reading time counts. “You see a lot of initiatives suggesting 15 minutes a day, but I believe any reading — whenever it fits into your day — is wonderful,” she said.

Koerner added, “Every family is different, and every child is different. Do what works best for your family.”

For more information, download&nbsp;Early Literacy: Building the Foundation for Lifelong Learning&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/early-literacy-building-the-foundation-for-lifelong-learning-fact-sheet_MF3691">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/early-literacy-building-the-foundation-for-lifelong-learning-fact-sheet_MF3691</a>.

More information also is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas</a>.

KSU provides tips for Parents: Teaching literacy early builds strong brains

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;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Klinkerman, Shealynn Jane

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Viol protection order; Abuse order; Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

NAME:&nbsp;Lawson,Eric Christopher

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

NAME:&nbsp;Marfise, Morgan Elizabeth

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended; Driving while habitual violator

Saline County jail bookings, November 15

CLOUD COUNTY - Farm Country Ford recently presented a $6,000 check to the Cloud County Community College Athletics Department for August’s Drive 4 UR Community event.

For every valid test during the event, Ford Motor Company donated $30 to the Athletics Department, up to a maximum of $6,000.

“We are grateful to Farm Country Ford and Ford Motor Company for choosing to support our athletics department through the Drive 4UR Community event,” said Matt Bechard, Cloud County Athletics Director. “Their partnership helps strengthen our programs and makes a meaningful impact on our student athletes.”

Since its launch in 2007, Ford’s Drive 4 UR Community program has helped schools across the nation raise more than $35 million for local education initiatives.

“We’re thrilled to be part of this program that directly benefits Cloud,” said Darell Gallegos, owner of Farm Country Ford. “It’s a fun, easy way for community members to make a real difference – just by getting behind the wheel of a new Ford.”

Farm Country Ford presents Drive 4UR community check at Cloud Co. Community College

High School Sports LIVE STREAMS

By TYLER HENRY Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post

South and Central have shared Salina since 1863, but the city has never felt big enough for the two of them.

For over 150 years, fierce battles between the Mustangs and the Cougars have delighted Salina on the gridiron, the court, and the diamond, and tonight, the next chapter in this storied rivalry will be written.

In week one of the high school football season, Central defeated South 31-21 to claim the Mayor’s Cup for a fifth-straight year.

When the Cougars finished the regular season 1-7, few around the 5A world could have fathomed that the two would meet in the state quarterfinals, but despite the odds, that’s exactly where we stand.

Central’s path to this moment has been one of triumph.&nbsp;

On the heels of a disappointing 4-5 campaign, the Mustangs rallied behind junior quarterback Griffin Hall and bruising tailback Cooper Reves to right the ship and post a 7-1 record in the regular season against an identical schedule.

The Mustangs picked up right where they left off in the first two rounds of the playoffs, dominating Topeka West 68-22 and doing the same to Goddard 62-32 to reach the sectional round.

For South, this run has been rightfully defined as one of destiny.

The Cougars had won just four games in the five seasons leading up to this one, and won just one contest, a lopsided affair against a hapless Campus team, to finish the 2025 regular season at 1-7.

Then, the pieces that had spent the entire season floating around their intended targets began to snap into place.

South needed to play their best football to survive against an Andover team that just three weeks prior rolled over the Mustangs 48-21.

They did just that, holding the Trojans well under their averages in a stunning 24-20 upset.

The Cougars would have to play another nearly-perfect game of football on the road at Liberal the following week, and yet they found a way, handing the Redskins their third loss of the season in a thrilling 22-16 victory.

Those four wins for two schools have led us here, to the first postseason meeting between South and Central football since 2005.

Anyone who has lived in Salina for long knows the story, but there was an era where the road to a 5A state title ran through Salina.

From 1999-2005 the Mustangs and Cougars met in six-straight playoffs with the winner appearing in the state championship game every year, and a champion from Salina being crowned in five of those six seasons.

Now, for the first time in 20 years, that road will be re-paved in Salina’s quest for a return to immortality.

Central’s stars will be on full display today, led by quarterback Griffin Hall and tailback Cooper Reves, who combined have accounted for over 4,300 yards of total offense, 53 touchdowns, and just three turnovers.

That tandem will need to outpace a South passing attack anchored by sophomore standout Izzy Telles, who has over 2,000 yards passing and 22 touchdowns, thanks in large part to a combination of star wideouts Jaxon Myers and Jae Curtis.

This game has everything, from a made-for-Hollywood script with primetime-level stars to a title-starved community eager to show out and support their teams at the top of their game.

Tonight’s game will be streamed live on Salina Post and on the Salina Post YouTube page 100% free to the public. This game will also be available to watch back on-demand any time.

You can tune in tonight in the window below.

🏈 South and Central square off in quarterfinal clash for the first time in 20 years 

NAME:&nbsp;Briscoe, Haiden Geraldine

NAME:&nbsp;Desmornes, Medjine Amanie

REQUESTED CHARGES: Agg assault; w/ deadly weapon; Agg battery; Knowingly cause angry phys contact; Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Return for court testimony

NAME:&nbsp;Shinn, Jonathan Steven

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose felony warrant; Aggravated burglary; Vehicle; to commit felony, theft, domestic violence or sexually motivated crime; Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K; Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

NAME:&nbsp;Williams,Katie Angel Lee

Saline County Jail Bookings, November 14

OCCK Inc. Transportation invites the public to upcoming Public Forums to discuss the approaching 81 Connection route changes, officially launching on December 1st, 2025.

Salina Public Forum&nbsp;- November 20, 11:00 am, OCCK Inc. Transportation Building, 340 N. Santa Fe, Salina

Concordia Public Forum -&nbsp;November 21, 11:00 am, OCCK Inc. Building, 1502 Lincoln St., Concordia

During these sessions, OCCK Transportation staff will outline the upcoming route changes, answer questions, and provide resources including travel training information and updated ride guides.

“These forums are an important opportunity for riders and community members to learn what’s changing and share feedback before the new route goes into effect,” said Trell Grinter, OCCK Transportation Director.&nbsp; “Everyone is welcome – bring your questions.”

For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.occk.com/">www.occk.com</a>.&nbsp;

For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/">www.salinacitygo.com</a>&nbsp;Or contact the OCCK Transportation Center at 785-826-1583.

OCCK inviting community to public forums discussing 81 Connection route changes

The&nbsp;Salina Fire Department (SFD) has announced they be hosting their Holiday Open House and Honor Guard Fundraiser.

On Saturday&nbsp;November 22, from 2:00 – 4:00 pm at Fire Station 1 (222 W Elm St.), SFD will be holding their open house and fundraiser.

The open house and fundraiser is meant for the community to view their&nbsp;new fire apparatus, a chance to meet the fire crews and accepting donations for new uniforms and equipment.

Coffee, hot chocolate and snacks will be provided as well.

Salina FD to host community holiday open house and fundraiser

The Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Salina (BGCS) has announced they are officially hiring Vision Leaders and accepting AmeriCorps applicants for their brand new site at Oakdale Elementary in Salina.

According to BGCS Vision Leaders will work approximately 15 hours per week, helping guide and mentor youth through engaging, meaningful programs focused on Academic Success, Character &amp; Leadership, Health &amp; Well-Being, and Life &amp; Workforce Readiness.

AmeriCorps members will serve approximately 25 hours per week supporting programs in the priority areas of education and youth development and mentoring.

“This is an incredible opportunity for anyone passionate about working with youth,” shared Site Director Heather Neuhofel-Tracy. “It’s a great way to begin a journey in youth development or education—and a fun, rewarding second job for those already in the field.”

Both positions offer a rewarding opportunity to help shape the future of young people in Salina while gaining valuable professional experience.

To learn more or apply, visit <a href="http://bgchutch.com/s/careers">bgchutch.com/s/careers</a>.

Newly Boys & Girls Club of Salina seeking for Vision Leaders  

<a target="_blank" href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;student pilots recently took to the skies in St. Louis, MO, to demonstrate their aviation skills, and thanks to a valiant team effort, they'll soon be competing for a national title.

The K-State Salina Flight Team's success at the National Intercollegiate Flying Association, or NIFA, Region 6/7 competition has qualified them for the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nifa.aero/safecon">NIFA SAFECON</a>&nbsp;national competition in May 2026 — the K-State team's 12th national qualification in the last 15 years.

For the regional competition, the team flew against eight other colleges. With outstanding individual and team performances in the flying events that tested the preparation and skills of the collegiate pilots, K-State's team finished in third place.

"We had an internal goal as a team to improve from our fourth-place finish in regionals from last year, so to finish third and be so close to the top two teams was very exciting," said Michael Einwich, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Bel Aire, and team captain. "There is a lot of studying and preparation that goes into being able to perform well in these events, and the team really put in a lot of work to compete well. We also appreciated the support from the K-State Salina campus; the aviation administration really helped get us the resources we needed to be successful in competition."

On top of the excellent team performance, many K-State Salina student pilots had fantastic individual performances.

Isaac Smith, senior in professional pilot, Salina, took home the Top Pilot award — the competition's top individual award — and won the Short Field award; Einwich finished in third place for the Top Pilot award, fifth in the Short Field competition and second in the SCAN event; Daniel Novovesky, sophomore in professional pilot,&nbsp;Overland Park, placed fifth for the Top Pilot award; and Mary Barbour, junior in aviation maintenance management,&nbsp;Quakertown, Pennsylvania, won the AMT Test award.Other notable performances included strong finishes in the Unlimited NAV event: Novovesky and Gavin Bowman, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Wichita, teamed up to place third; and a team of Einwich and Claire Trapp, junior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Green Lake, Wisconsin, finished in fourth place.

"I am proud of the efforts of our student pilots at the Region VI event," said Tysen Pina, K-State Salina aviation department head. "These students showcased the whole range of skills that go into being an excellent pilot, including the flight, planning and safety skills that we teach every day at K-State. Like with any challenge or competition, there comes adversity, but as is an emphasis in our program, the students were able to overcome it like the professionals they are."

Competitions like NIFA SAFECON allow K-State Salina pilot students to showcase their skills, experience instruction outside of a traditional classroom or daily flight instruction, and pilot and experience different flying conditions from what is typical in Kansas. Students also have the opportunity to network with fellow aviation students from around the country.

Fourteen K-State Salina students competed on Flight Team at the regional competition:

Michael Einwich, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Bel Aire; Daniel Novovesky, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Overland Park; Alex Mercy, sophomore in professional pilot, and Isaac Smith, senior in professional pilot, both from&nbsp;Salina; Luke Dufort, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Shawnee; and Gavin Bowman, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Wichita.From out of state: Logan Dobransky, freshman in professional pilot,&nbsp;Goodyear, Arizona; Timothy Mallari, freshman in professional pilot,&nbsp;Denver, Colorado; Mac Doser, sophomore in professional pilot,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Matthew Tirella, senior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Littleton, Colorado; Nathan Wallace, junior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Omaha, Nebraska; Mary Barbour, junior in aviation maintenance management,&nbsp;Quakertown, Pennsylvania; Claire Trapp, junior in professional pilot,&nbsp;Green Lake, Wisconsin; and Lauren LaFountain, freshman dual majoring in aviation management and professional pilot,&nbsp;New Berlin, Wisconsin.

KSU Salina pilot students set to compete for national title  

Salina Police are currently seeking tips for a burglary crime that occurred at a convenience store, where an unknown suspect stole an undisclosed amount of cash.

ORIGINAL: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/af74f0f8-3d84-4fe8-a73a-76e299bbd64c">Undisclosed amount of cash stolen from convenience store in Salina, investigation ongoing</a>

On the early morning hours of Monday, November 10 an unknown suspect broke into Casey's (1100 E. Iron) and stole an undisclosed amount of cash from a safe.

A female employee upon arrival to open the store, found the front door unsecure.&nbsp;She then went inside and the store's alarm went off.

Afterwards, she found the safe that had been broken into and trash spread out on the floor. The employee then contacted police and officers arrived to the scene.

The concern became how the alarm didn't sound off, before the employee arrived and found the store to have appeared to be burglarized.

Surveillance video (screenshot above) showed the suspect was wearing brown overalls, gloves and had their face covered.

Coins stolen from the safe were recovered behind the business. 

The suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of currency.

If you have any information concerning this incident or identification of the individual involved, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS.

You can also make an online tip at: <a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#">https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=950#</a>.

You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tipsters may also contact the Salina Police Department at (785) 826-7210, case 2025-30518.

UPDATE: Salina Police seeking tips for suspect stealing undisclosed amount of cash from convenience store

<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 14 - November 17

Four day weather forecast Salina, November 12 - November 14

Four day weather forecast Salina, November 10 - November 12

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

FORD COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) trooper following a domestic violence investigation, according to a media release from the agency.

Just before 9p.m. Friday, KBI agents served an arrest warrant for Dillon Keller, 34, of Dodge City, at his residence. Keller was arrested on requested charges that include one count of kidnapping, one count of forgery, two counts of criminal threat, and two counts of domestic battery.

On July 2 of this year, the Dodge City Police Department requested the KBI investigate an off-duty KHP trooper and allegations of domestic violence. The alleged incidents occurred over several months leading up to the start of the investigation.

Following the arrest, Keller was booked into the Ford County Jail. He met the requirement for bond and was released just before 11p.m. Friday, according to online jail records.

The case is expected to be prosecuted by Kiowa County Attorney’s Office.

KHP Trooper accused of kidnapping, forgery and domestic battery

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol continues investigating a deadly crash during a police chase in Wichita and released new details on the cause of death of the driver.

On October 31, 2025, the Wichita Police Department requested assistance from the Patrol to investigate an injury crash resulting from a police pursuit at 8th and Edgemoor in Wichita.

Officers attempted to stop a vehicle near Central and Oliver and a brief pursuit ensued. The fleeing vehicle struck another vehicle at low speed near 8th and Edgemoor. Four of the five occupants fled the suspect vehicle on foot following the crash. Three of the occupants that fled were located and taken into custody by the Wichita Police Department.

The driver of the fleeing vehicle, 16-year-old Dreshawn Hardyway, sustained critical injuries from an airbag deployment during the crash. He was provided immediate life-saving measures by officers on scene until emergency medical services arrived. Hardyway was transported to a Wichita hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on November 3, 2025.

A firearm was recovered from the suspect vehicle. Injuries to the driver were initially believed to be a gunshot wound; however, medical examinations and evidence recovered during the crash investigation confirmed otherwise.

An investigation of the crash by Kansas Highway Patrol’s Critical Highway Accident Reconstruction Team (CHART) is ongoing.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas teen injured in a Halloween night chase and crash in Wichita died days after the incident.

On Halloween night, police were in the area of Central and Oliver in Wichita to monitor a crowd gathering after receiving unverified information suggesting potential violence in the area for a balloon release related to a homicide that occurred on Halloween in 2024.

While monitoring the event, officers observed a man they recognized as violating his probation conditions enter a vehicle with several others. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, and it attempted to flee.

A brief pursuit ensued and concluded at 8th Street and Edgemoor, where the suspect vehicle was involved in a minor collision with another vehicle. The driver of that vehicle sustained minor injuries.

Four people exited the suspect vehicle and fled on foot. Officers were able to detain three of the individuals, who were subsequently booked into the Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) for obstruction. A fourth suspect remained at large.

A fifth male, who was the driver identified as 16-year-old&nbsp;Dreshawn A Hardyway, was found inside the vehicle with what was initially believed to be a gunshot wound. Officers provided immediate life-saving measures until EMS arrived. He was transported to a local hospital died November 3.&nbsp;Police recovered a firearm from the vehicle.&nbsp;

In accordance with Wichita Police Department policy related to vehicle pursuits resulting in crashes, the Kansas Highway Patrol was called in to investigate the traffic collision.

All five individuals in the suspect vehicle were juveniles including two 16-year-old boys, two 15-year-old boys and a 14-year-old boy.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported police were in pursuit of a southbound 2008 Chevy Malibu driven by Dreshawn A&nbsp;Hardyway, 16, Wichita, in the 800 Block of North Edgemoor Street. The Malibu turned west on East 8th Street and struck a 2021 Chrysler Voyager driven by Christopher B.&nbsp;Paramo, 23, Wichita, who was&nbsp;&nbsp;stopped waiting to turn onto North Edgemoor Street.

EMS transported Hardyway to Wesley Medical Center where he died November 3.&nbsp; Two 14-year-olds were not injured. Paramo was not injured. The drivers and occupants in both vehicles were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

KHP updates details in death of teen in Halloween chase, crash

The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department was notified of a confirmed case of measles in a&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;resident who&nbsp;was present&nbsp;in&nbsp;a&nbsp;terminal&nbsp;at the Kansas City International Airport&nbsp;(MCI)&nbsp;on November 5 from approximately 2 a.m.&nbsp;until noon,&nbsp;and&nbsp;on November 10,&nbsp;from&nbsp;2 a.m. until 4&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Measles is a highly infectious respiratory disease caused by a virus.&nbsp;Measles&nbsp;is spread through the air by breathing, coughing, or sneezing. Measles can be spread to others from four days before to four days after the rash appears. Measles cannot be spread to others by&nbsp;an&nbsp;exposed&nbsp;person&nbsp;unless that person develops&nbsp;measles&nbsp;disease&nbsp;symptoms.&nbsp;

If you are up to date on your Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, your risk of getting sick is&nbsp;very low.&nbsp;The best way to prevent measles is to get your MMR vaccination. Those not vaccinated or infants under the age of 1 who are too young to be vaccinated are at the highest risk for contracting measles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We want people to stay calm but stay aware,”&nbsp;said Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department.&nbsp;“Measles is highly contagious, but vaccination offers strong protection. If you&nbsp;haven’t&nbsp;received your MMR vaccine, now is the time to get it.&nbsp;I also&nbsp;urge&nbsp;people to avoid travel if they&nbsp;haven’t&nbsp;been vaccinated.”&nbsp;

Any exposed person would be expected to develop symptoms between November 12&nbsp;-&nbsp;December 1. The symptoms of measles&nbsp;generally include&nbsp;a rash that appears 7-21 days&nbsp;after exposure. Measles symptoms typically begin with:&nbsp;

Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears. The rash typically appears as flat, red spots that initially break out on the face, near the hairline, and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.&nbsp;

We are urging people who are ill or exhibiting symptoms similar to measles to stay home unless they are seeking medical attention.&nbsp;Before visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead and let the provider know of the measles exposure so that steps can be taken to protect other patients and staff, especially if you have a fever and rash.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/health/measles" target="_blank">Click here for more information about measles.</a>&nbsp;

Residents can receive Measles vaccinations at the Kansas City Health Department Immunization Clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;Monday&nbsp;through&nbsp;Friday.&nbsp;The&nbsp;measles&nbsp;vaccines&nbsp;are free for children under 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to&nbsp;contact their primary care provider&nbsp;or&nbsp;call the Health Department at 816-513-6008.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Health department: Potential measles exposure at KCI

WASHINGTON (AP) — The most advanced U.S. aircraft carrier&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-carriers-trump-venezuela-middle-east-a458b9c4f1a5690e19d7c532dd6b7fd7">is expected to reach the waters</a>&nbsp;off&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/venezuela">Venezuela</a>&nbsp;in days, a flex of American military power not seen in Latin America for generations.

Experts disagree on the possibility that American warplanes will catapult off the USS Gerald R. Ford to bomb targets inside Venezuela and further pressure authoritarian President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;to step down. Still, whether it may serve that purpose or only patrols the Caribbean as the U.S. blows up boats it accuses of trafficking drugs, the presence of the 100,000-ton warship alone is sending a message.

“This is the anchor of what it means to have U.S. military power once again in Latin America,” said Elizabeth Dickinson, the International Crisis Group’s senior analyst for the Andes region. “And it has raised a lot of anxieties in Venezuela but also throughout the region. I think everyone is watching this with sort of bated breath to see just how willing the U.S. is to really use military force.”

The Ford’s impending arrival is a major moment in the Trump administration’s campaign in South America, which it describes as a counterdrug operation. It escalates the already massive buildup of military firepower in the region, with added pressure from bomber training runs near the Venezuelan coast, CIA operations that have been publicly authorized inside the country and boat strikes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean that have killed over 75 people.

The U.S. has long used aircraft carriers as tools of deterrence to pressure and influence other nations, often without employing any force at all. They carry thousands of sailors and dozens of warplanes that can strike targets deep inside another country.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday formally named the mission Operation Southern Spear, emphasizing the growing significance and permanence of the military’s presence in the region. Once the Ford arrives, the mission will encompass nearly a dozen Navy ships as well 12,000 sailors and Marines.

Trump administration says it’s focused on fighting drug trafficking

Secretary of State Marco Rubio insists that President Donald Trump is focused on stopping drugs from entering the U.S. by combatting “organized criminal narcoterrorists.”

“That’s what he’s authorized. That’s what the military’s doing. That’s why our assets are there,” he told reporters Wednesday after meeting his counterparts from the Group of Seven democracies in Canada.

But Rubio also says the U.S. doesn’t recognize Maduro, who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-election-tally-sheets-actas-oas-carter-center-41d1000926d0ab99e522e53bf6c2b916">widely accused of stealing last year’s election</a>, as the leader of Venezuela and called the government a “transshipment organization” that openly cooperates with those trafficking drugs toward the U.S.

Some experts say deploying the Ford appears to be geared more toward a government change in Venezuela than drug trafficking.

“There’s nothing that an aircraft carrier brings that is useful for combating the drug trade,” Dickinson said. “I think it’s clearly a message that is much more geared toward pressuring Caracas.”

Bryan Clark, a former Navy submariner and defense analyst at the Hudson Institute, a conservative think tank, said the Trump administration would not have deployed the Ford “if they didn’t intend to use it.”

“I think this administration is very open to using military force to accomplish particular objectives,” Clark said. “I think they’re going to want to actually do some military operations unless Maduro steps down in the next month or so.”

After Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-boat-strikes-congress-6163b24e940dd74005fc3cb78751f92a">briefed lawmakers last week</a>, Rep. Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, said they gave no indication that the strikes would be stopping but also indicated that they were targeting cocaine traffickers and not overtly intending to overthrow Maduro.

Mark Cancian, a retired Marine colonel and a senior adviser with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, expects U.S. warships to launch missiles from other ships before launching any American warplanes. He said Venezuela has relatively sophisticated missile defense systems from Russia that could put American pilots at risk.

“Because they have so many systems, some are relatively new, and all are mobile, we probably wouldn’t get them all,” Cancian said. “So there’s some risk that we could lose some aircraft.”

Venezuela’s government this week touted a “massive” mobilization of troops and civilians to defend against possible U.S. attacks. Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López said in a statement that “land, air, naval, riverine, and missile assets” would be part of a two-day readiness effort “to confront imperialist threats.”

State television showed members of the military, police and militias standing in formations across the country. Padrino also delivered remarks, broadcast on state television, standing by a surface-to-air missile system in a military base in the capital, Caracas.

Maduro, who faces charges of narcoterrorism in the U.S., has insisted the Trump administration’s intentions are to force him from power. Venezuela’s U.S.-backed political opposition has renewed its promise of an imminent government change.

David Smilde, a Tulane University professor who has studied Venezuela for more than 30 years, said the U.S. military does not have enough manpower in the region, even with the aircraft carrier, for an invasion.

“It’s consistent with this desire to demonstrate credible force, which they had already,” Smilde said of the carrier. “It doesn’t change the equation. I don’t think that the fact that it is there means that they necessarily have to strike. It just means that Trump and Hegseth have not forgotten about this, and they are still onboard in trying to generate a regime change through a show of force.”

Smilde said Venezuela’s political opposition has long told U.S. officials that “just a credible threat of force” would cause Maduro’s government to crumble. For Trump, he said, that would be the best outcome of this operation.

The U.S. actions have faced pushback in the region, in Congress and among rights organizations. However, Senate Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-strikes-congress-6c0061bf5a9c417e66f76fcc6ee57405">voted last week</a>&nbsp;to reject legislation that would have put a check on Trump’s ability to launch an attack against Venezuela.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who was recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-colombia-petro-sanctions-drug-trafficking-1b6ead338ec266b3df40859db6ee2d8d">hit with U.S. sanctions</a>&nbsp;over allegations of aiding the drug trade, on Tuesday announced he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colombia-trump-drug-strikes-intelligence-2424e84a97f3a584a491143627dfdaa7">cutting off intelligence sharing</a>&nbsp;with the longtime North American ally until the strikes stop. But he softened his stance the following day, saying the sharing would continue as long as agencies guarantee it won’t be used in actions that jeopardize human rights.

Rubio pushed back on reports that the United Kingdom has halted some intelligence sharing in the region over concerns about the strikes, saying U.S. assets in the region provide such information.

The U.S. is not “asking anyone to help us with what we’re doing — in any realm. And that includes the military,” he said.

Mexico, however, is stepping up its cooperation with the U.S. in targeting drug trafficking. President Claudia Sheinbaum said Thursday that her administration made an agreement with the U.S. for Mexico’s navy to intercept boats in international waters near Mexico that the U.S. alleges are carrying drugs to avoid any more strikes off its coast.

‘A use-it-or-lose-it kind of situation’

The Ford, originally deployed to the Mediterranean Sea, was within the U.S. Southern Command region but not yet in the Caribbean. The carrier was in the mid-Atlantic on Thursday, a defense official who wasn’t authorized to discuss the matter said on condition of anonymity.

Clark said sending the Ford to South America would have a minimal impact on costs and readiness in the short term because it still has a month or two left on its regularly scheduled deployment.

Cancian, of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said the U.S. can’t afford to have the Ford “dawdling around the Caribbean” for long. It’s such a powerful military asset that it may be needed elsewhere, such as the Middle East.

“It’s a use-it-or-lose-it kind of situation,” he said.

Garcia Cano reported from Caracas, Venezuela.

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