This edition of&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/salina-sees-you">Salina Sees You</a>, brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://local.demandforce.com/b/visionsource-drscoleandcooper">Drs. Cooper &amp; Banninger, LLC Family Vision Care</a>&nbsp;(1000 E. Cloud) presents:

Oscar Campa, a 24-year old Salina native who tells his story of battling a 2-year long bone cancer diagnosis, how he overcame it and his love for encouraging others.

Oscar Campa is the 2nd&nbsp;oldest of 5 siblings, with his father being from Mexico and mother from Salina. Campa grew up playing sports with his older sister. In his adolescent years, his uncles influenced him to get into music. 

However, this was the same time he was diagnosed with <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15041-osteosarcoma">osteosarcoma</a>, a type of bone cancer.&nbsp;

According to Cleveland Clinic, only 7 in 10 people survive if the osteosarcoma doesn’t spread to other parts of their bodies.

Before the diagnosis, he would experience high levels of fatigue when playing baseball and soccer. Shortly after a few more games and still experiencing the fatigueness, his family scheduled an appointment for him to be evaluated.

“From that point on, it was appointment after appointment, until they found out what it actually was,” said Campa. “From that day on, it kinda changed my life.”

Roughly around middle school was when Campa went through chemotherapy and he could not continue sports anymore. During this time, his music teacher taught him how to play guitar and this was when he got back into it.&nbsp;

Campa conquered the battle of osteosarcoma in 2015 after being diagnosed in 2013. However, a couple of months later the disease came back again.

“It knocked me off my feet, because I had beaten it, gained all my confidence back and then I got diagnosed again, which threw me off,” he said.

This was the time when Campa was told he needed his left arm amputated. Fortunately, he overcame the disease again on December 2, 2015.

Afterwards, his mother started taking him to the gym and he fell in love with it.

Campa’s uncles then asked him if he wanted to play in their band. His uncle taught him how to play the bass and he was able to do it with one arm.&nbsp;

“I always kept music and the gym in my life,” he said.

This edition of Salina Sees You is brought to you by&nbsp;<a href="https://local.demandforce.com/b/visionsource-drscoleandcooper">Drs. Cooper &amp; Banninger, LLC Family Vision Care</a>&nbsp;(1000 E. Cloud). Call (785) 823-6391 or visit today, to make an appointment.

Throughout the process of chemo and battling cancer, Campa felt times of isolation. At times, people he interacted with would tell him how much of an inspiration he is.

“When I run into somebody, they will know who I am, but I won’t necessarily know who they are,” he said. “They will tell me how much of an inspiration I am, but that won’t click in my head until I really think about it, because when I look at other kids who have cancer, I just remember being in their shoes at some point and looking how hard it was for them to go through that.”

He added that he stays grateful even after his amputation, since many people have lost their lives and loved ones due to cancer.

“There is more to be grateful for, there is someone who is wishing they could be in my shoes right now. Even though I lost my arm and hair, I am still alive,” he said.&nbsp;

What kept him going was reiterating quotes to himself such as, “feelings come and go, but time doesn’t,” and “someone is always outworking you and you have to get it done no matter what it is, because if you don’t then someone else will.”

“I am disabled, but I don’t like to claim I am disabled and I like to think I am just as capable of doing anything,” he said.

In the past, Campa has published motivational videos to inspire others on his YouTube and Instagram pages.&nbsp;

“I love helping people and I can do that by being myself, which is crazy because I never thought that would be possible,” he said.

He shared some words of encouragement for those who are currently going through tough times and battling cancer.

“One thing I always try to keep in mind, is that there is always light at the end of the tunnel,” he said. “Hardship creates growth. That is how everything is in life, no matter how small or big it is, you will get through it, as long as you keep your head up and stay positive. You make the most out of any situation, or you can make the least out of it."

Love, Chloe Foundation, family and friends supporting Campa

Campa stated the <a href="https://lovechloe.org/">Love, Chloe Foundation</a> helped him throughout his cancer journey. Back when he was diagnosed, the organization reached out to his family for support. He thanked President and Founder, Heidi Feyerherm Smith and rest of the Love, Chloe team.

“They have been very supportive and they always support alot of families,” he said.

He also thanked his family and everyone for their continuous support.

Campa&nbsp;recently acquired a job with the City of Salina. This will be his first full-time job in awhile.&nbsp;

His goals are to continue playing music, hit the gym and restart publishing his motivational content, reaching both spanish and english audiences.

December 2025 will mark the 10-year anniversary of Campa being cancer free.

If you would like to share your personal story or know anyone who may have a story that will inspire each reader, please email Salina Post News Director, Nicolas Fierro:&nbsp;nicolas.fierro@eaglemedia.com&nbsp;or&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com&nbsp;(during regular business hours)

You can also contact:&nbsp;(785) 656-9856&nbsp;(during regular business hours)

Salina Sees You: Oscar Campa

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 CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg endangering a child; Reckless &lt;18; Use/poss drug paraphernalia/human body; Poss para w/intent to manuf contr subst; Poss of marijuana; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

NAME:&nbsp;Buchanan, Sedrick Letha

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;Diaz Brito, Elier Ricardo

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm; Agg Domestic Battery: impede breathing/choke; Agg intimidation of witness/victim; Threat; Agg robbery; Inflicts bodily harm; Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K; Operate a MV w/o a valid license

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Unsafe turning or stopping - Fail to Signal; Flee or attempt to elude;five or more moving violations; Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case; Drive on left side of roadway; Drive w/o lights when needed; Reckless Driving; Speeding; maximum limits; Traffic Control Signals; Unlawful acts: vehicle registration violation; Vehicle emerging from alley/private drive

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Higgins, Bastian Raymond-Edwards

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Viol protection order; Abuse order

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Return for court testimony

Saline County Jail Bookings, October 9

Salina Public Library (SPL) invites the community to its second annual&nbsp;Community Nonprofit Showcase and Hygiene Drive, a free, come-and-go event highlighting nearly 30 local organizations that provide vital resources and services to the Salina area.

The&nbsp;Community Nonprofit Showcase&nbsp;will take place at SPL (301 W. Elm Street) on&nbsp;Friday, October 10, from 10:00 am to noon, offering residents a chance to connect directly with community organizations that focus on giving, not fundraising.

The event provides an opportunity to learn more about free and affordable programs that support local individuals and families.

“This event is about meeting our community where they are at to provide free and affordable resources,” said Katie Zey, Head of Marketing. “There are so many incredible nonprofits in Salina dedicated to helping others. The Showcase allows them to share information and resources directly with the community in one welcoming space.”

In conjunction with the event, the library is hosting a&nbsp;Free Hygiene Drive, with more than&nbsp;2,000 free items&nbsp;available this year, including soap, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, toothbrush kits, toilet paper and more. These items will be available free of charge to anyone attending the Showcase, while supplies last.&nbsp;

Last year’s drive was a tremendous success, with every item distributed to attendees in need. 

This year’s generous donations came from Courtyard, Salina Public Library Staff, Noon Network AMBUCS, Alher’s Family Dentistry, Delta Dental, Dillon’s (Ohio &amp; Cloud), Bennington State Bank, Sam’s Club, Comfort Inn North, La Quinta, Hays Hair Academy, Nu Mu - Beta Signa Phi Sorority and Salina Rotary.

The&nbsp;2025 participating nonprofits&nbsp;include: 

KDHE, Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland, Resilience Clubhouse, OCCK Transportation, The Salvation Army, Salina Community Relations Division, K-State Extension - Central Kansas District, Saint Francis Ministries, Coronado Area Council, CarePortal, League of Women Voters - Salina, New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Altrusa International of Salina, KS, Salina Grace Community Resource Center, Noon Network AMBUCS, DVACK, Ashby House, NAMI Central Kansas, Salina Area United Way, Saline County Health Department, Kansas Department for Children and Families, Central Kansas Mental Health Center, Catholic Charities of Northern KS, Independent Connection, Salina Family Healthcare Center, Homestead Ministries, CAPS (Child Advocacy and Parenting Services), and Theatre Salina.

Salina Public Library invites public to 2nd annual Community Nonprofit Showcase and Hygiene Drive on Friday

As a lifetime 4th generation Salina resident this is my home and community. My wife and I were married here nearly 44 years ago. We raised two sons who essentially went to the same schools I attended in the 1960’s and 70’s. My wife and I attend and serve at Crosspoint Church.

I worked in local industries for 45 years. During these years I learned to work together in teams and collaborated to find the best solutions for complex issues and processes. Finding the most efficient cost effective solutions was imperative to continued success. After my employment ended I returned to college and received an AAS degree in computer networking/security.

I have been active and engaged in the community. Always making it a priority to attend my assigned boards and committees. These range from Economic Development, and the Chamber, to the Public Library, Convention and Tourism and Arts &amp; Humanities. These boards have given me a broad view of how things get accomplished in Salina. It has been very fulfilling as a commissioner to attend groundbreakings and see projects completed and be able to take part in the ribbon cuttings. During my term as a commissioner, I have enjoyed participating in community events from Martin Luther King Day in January to Veteran’s Day and the Mayors Christmas party in December.

If reelected, I will work to continue thinking forward for continued progress in Salina. We have seen a tremendous amount of growth and development in the past few years. I would like to continue the momentum for continued prosperity

During my 1st term as a commissioner, I have gained a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge. After the first year cycle I was able to grasp and understand the various departments and operations of the city. These range from Art’s &amp; Humanities to Sanitation, and Parks to Utilities. I’ve found everything revolves around and depends on core services we sometimes take for granted. I would like to apply that experience to serve another term.

The key to growth in Salina has been available housing. We have wide job availability. Several housing projects are coming together to meet the goals of the 2020 housing study. As units come online, they are being filled and occupied. I believe Salina is poised for significant growth.

Maintaining a stable well equipped workforce to support the city is imperative. Public safety will always be a priority. I feel we are in a good position with a first class police training facility and well equipped officers who have the latest technology available. The past year we saw seven new fire trucks come into to service. A new modern fire station is under construction with completion scheduled for next May. These investments add to officers and firefighters’ safety as they respond to calls for service to protect the city. They also aid in recruitment of new employees to serve and protect the next generation.

It has been an honor to serve on the city commission the past three and a half years. While it is a big responsibility and requires a great deal of time, I am committed to serving the city and

listening to the citizens of Salina. I have found what is very important to one person or group seems like a waste to others. Finding that balance for the city is what makes Salina a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family.

I ask for your support and vote on November 4th.

Meet City Commission Candidate: Bill Longbine 

I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to introduce myself to you and to let you know what is important to me. My name is Randall Hardy, I’m a candidate for the city commission. I’m a 45-year resident of Salina. I was president of construction rental Inc. with a store here in Salina and two stores in Nebraska. I was married to Saralyn Reece Hardy, and I have three sons, all who live in Kansas City. I also have four grandkids that I’m very proud of. I served on the city commission from 2013 through 2016 and I served in the Kansas Senate from 2017 to 2020.

Why do I want to serve as city commissioner?

My first reason is: I listen to the people of Salina. While on the commission, the vacant Dillon’s building on iron was being considered for different uses. It was important to me that that building remain a grocery store. I went out and chatted with a couple business people and discovered that they had formed a group that would provide the seed money for a grocery store at that location. I brought that idea back to the commission, and the idea became reality. Now we have DG market that is available for people who live in that area.

The second reason I am running is that I want to do good things for the people of Salina. A gentleman from Hays came up to the podium during citizens forum and remarked that he drove through Salina and enjoyed the Fire engine red beer at blue sky brewery. On his way out the door he wanted to purchase some to take home with him, but the bartender said I’m sorry we can’t sell this to you because it is Sunday and we have no liquor sales on Sunday. When I heard that, I thought, why not? So, I made my case to my fellow commissioners and they agreed that we should indeed have liquor sales on Sunday.

Lastly, I want to make Salina a better place for everyone. When we were talking about the development that was happening on Santa Fe, I remarked, wouldn’t it be great if someone could sit out on the sidewalk in a dining area of a restaurant and have a glass of wine with their meal. I think we should do that. The city manager and city attorney resisted, saying that it was not possible to do in our city. So I did some research, and called the Lawrence city commission and got a copy of their sidewalk dining with alcohol ordinance, brought it back and told the city manager I think we can do this here. Now we have it.

Again, my name is Randall Hardy, and you can visit my website <a href="http://randallhardy.org">randallhardy.org</a> if you would like to learn more about me and my campaign. Thank you for this opportunity to visit with you tonight. It is an honor to run for this position. If I am elected, I will consider my position as a partnership with the citizens of Salina; I will be open to ideas or suggestions from citizens as we decide the best path forward for Salina while I am in office. Since filing for office, I have attended every commission meeting so I can hit the ground running if I am elected. And believe me, I will stand up for you so that we never have to spend our tax dollars on an unnecessary lawsuit like Cozy Inn again. I am a former city commissioner who can do good things for Salina. I would appreciate your vote on November 4.

Meet City Commission Candidate: Randall Hardy

Kansas Department of Transportation

ELLSWORTH COUNTY - The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) plans to begin a resurfacing project along K-14 in Ellsworth County, starting Thursday.

Project work will consist of a mill and overlay on about 7 miles of K-14 from K-140 north to I-70, including the ramps at I-70.&nbsp;

During construction, flaggers and a pilot car will be used to guide one lane of traffic through construction at a reduced speed. Drivers should plan for delays of 15 minutes or less during daylight hours.

Venture Corporation, of Great Bend, is the prime contractor for this $1.6 million project, which is scheduled to be completed in November, conditions permitting.

KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010199c4d35919-99ffc62c-c33b-42c0-848b-7815511799c6-000000/DJw8A_Xzu_SDbtc8SHjwIxyfsNv4NrKsKdJUA3DbBIY=426">kandrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

For updates on highway projects in north central Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fnorthcentralnews%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010199c4d35919-99ffc62c-c33b-42c0-848b-7815511799c6-000000/VnHFhPCWwVmvaaLq5l2cL5vgTegRWXoVftHrsG-Q40A=426">ksdot.gov/northcentralnews</a>.

Highway roadwork beginning Thursday in Ellsworth Co., expected completion date in Nov.

The Salvation Army of Salina is excited to announce the arrival of the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program into their facility. 

This program is dedicated to helping local veterans and their families find stability, hope and a place to call home.

The SSVF program is designed for veterans who are homeless or facing housing instability. By offering practical support like rental assistance, case management and connections to community resources. The Salvation Army is ensuring that the men and women who served our country are not left behind.

“Salina is a community that deeply values its veterans,” said Lt. Luke Hursh. “This program gives us a way to walk beside them—to help carry some of the burdens they face, and to make sure they know they are seen, valued, and cared for.”

Through the program, veterans and their families can receive:

· Rapid Re-Housing Assistance for veterans experiencing homelessness.

· Homelessness Prevention Services to help veterans and families remain in safe housing.

· Case Management and Referrals connecting participants to healthcare, counseling, employment, and other vital community resources.

· Financial Assistance for eligible households to cover rent, utilities, moving costs, and other essential needs.

For many veterans, stability begins with a safe place to live—and with SSVF now in Salina, The Salvation Army is making that possible.

“We want our veterans to know this: you are not alone,” said Lt. Hursh. “Your community stands with you, and The Salvation Army is here to help.”

The Salvation Army invites veterans, family members, and community partners to learn more about the program and how it can serve those in need. 

Interested veterans or families should contact The Salvation Army of Salina at (785) 823-2251 or visit the local office at 1137 N Santa Fe Ave, Salina, KS 67401 for more information.

A new mission of hope: The Salvation Army brings Veteran support program to Salina

<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.

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 8 - October 10

Domestic argument leads to the arrest of man after allegedly threatening two people with a knife.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Tuesday afternoon, officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Pawnee for a domestic disturbance. Reportedly, a man was swinging a knife at two family members inside a home. SPD stated the man was in a 'mental health crisis.'

SPD stated before the incident happened, the man got into an argument with both the relatives over a bracelet situation. No one was physically harmed during and after the argument.

Officers arrested 60-year old, Saladin Bass. He was transported to Salina Regional Health Center to be evaluated and was then booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges:

Aggravated Assault, Criminal Threat, Obstruction and Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia.

Domestic argument and knife threat results in arrest 

A male suspect was arrested after breaking into a home and was shortly located by a robotic device, used by law enforcement.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Tuesday at around 6:00 am, a resident in the 500 block of Jupiter called police when they heard glass breaking at their neighbor's home. Subsequently, the owner reported their home had been broken into. The homeowner was not sure of the suspect's whereabouts and exited the house.

Afterwards, officers were dispatched to the house and deployed a robot to locate the suspect. Through the camera on the robot, officers found the suspect in the basement and sleeping on a couch. The suspect was then arrested.

The suspect identified was 33-year old, Julius Eagle Feather-Johnson. Eagle Feather-Johnson was taken to Salina Regional Health Center to be evaluated, before he was booked into the Saline County Jail for the following requested charges:

Battery of Law Enforcement Officer, Interference with Law Enforcement Officer, Criminal Trespass and Criminal Damage to Property.

SPD added Eagle Feather-Johnson, seemed to be 'very intoxicated' during the arrest.

Male suspect trespasses home and located by robotic device before arrest

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Agg assault; w/ deadly weapon

NAME:&nbsp;Collins-Espinoza, Majja Lin'Treyy

NAME:&nbsp;Eagle Feather Johnson, Julius Dakota

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; misd; Criminal trespass; Property as posted per KSA 32-1013; Probation Violation

NAME:&nbsp;McMillan, Michaela Danae

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Failure to appear

NAME:&nbsp;Novak, Stevi Elizabeth

Saline County Jail Bookings, October 8

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 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

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 22 - September 24

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/josh-funk">JOSH FUNK</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/rio-yamat">RIO YAMAT</a>,&nbsp; AP Transportation&nbsp;and&nbsp;Airlines Writers

The federal government shutdown has entered its second week, and already shortages of air traffic controllers have strained operations and disrupted flights at some U.S. airports.

Reagan National Airport became the latest this week to report delays because of staffing issues on Wednesday. But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-delays-government-shutdown-air-traffic-3c6f0add8d591119b583b5cc4c581bdf">earlier in the week</a>&nbsp;there were also problems at airports in Chicago, Newark, Denver and Nashville, and the tower even had to shut down for several hours in Burbank, California.

Experts, as well as union leaders representing air traffic controllers and security screeners, warn that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/air-traffic-controllers-duffy-shutdown-stress-3bc9c88f7b2af413dee41720f6980b5d">the impact</a>&nbsp;could grow significantly worse if the shutdown continues and employees start to miss paychecks.

Here is what to know about your rights as a passenger and what you can do if delays and cancellations start piling up:

It is better to be stuck at home or in a hotel than to be stranded in an airport terminal, so use the airline’s app or flight websites to make sure that your flight is still on before heading to the airport. This&nbsp;<a href="https://nasstatus.faa.gov/" target="_blank">FAA site</a>&nbsp;can be checked to see if there are widespread delays at your airport.

Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, suggests also closely monitoring the news if you have upcoming travel plans.

“A deal, in theory, could come through Congress any day now, and that could put all of this doubt lingering over air travel to an end pretty quickly,” Potter said.

If you are already at the airport, it is time to find another flight. Get in line to speak to a customer service representative, and call or go online to connect to the airline’s reservations staff. It also helps to reach out on X, the site formerly known as Twitter, because airlines might respond quickly there.

Airlines will rebook you on a later flight for no additional charge. The good news right now is that this is not a peak travel time, so travelers stand a better chance of finding seats. But the busy holiday season is right around the corner, and at those peak times, passengers might have to wait days for a seat on a new flight.

If these problems do become more widespread, you might consider whether it makes sense to travel by train, car or bus instead. But there is really no way to predict when and where a staff shortage might happen, and the ongoing shortage of controllers is so critical that even a small number of absences can cause problems.

Potter said the shutdown is different from when a single airline is having problems and travelers can just pick another carrier. This is creating problems for entire airports at once.

“As these problems expand and spread the longer the shutdown drags on, it’s unlikely that there will be one airline running on time if the rest of the them are failing,” he said. “It’s going to affect the entire system over time.”

Can I ask to be booked on another airline?

You can, but airlines aren’t required to put you on another carrier’s flight. Some airlines, including the biggest ones except Southwest and the discount airlines, say they can put you on a partner airline. But even then it is often hit or miss.

Jeff Klee, the CEO of CheapAir.com, has recommended researching alternate flights while you wait to talk to an agent.

If you no longer want to take the trip, or have found another way of getting to your destination, the airline is legally required to refund your money, even if you bought a non-refundable ticket. It doesn’t matter why the flight was canceled.

“If the airline cancels your flight, you can say, ‘Alright. I will take a refund and get my money back,’ ” Potter said. “The important piece is that you get your payment returned to you. You’re not just settling for an airline voucher that may expire in a year or less.”

You are also entitled to a refund of any bag fees, seat upgrades or other extras that you didn’t get to use.

U.S. airlines are not required to pay additional cash compensation and cover lodging and meals for passengers who are stranded, even if a flight cancellation or a severe delay is the airline’s fault.

The Biden administration had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/airlines-compensation-biden-administration-rules-3e1d8f6c47328c274161a4cdb0910c64">proposed a rule</a>&nbsp;that would have changed that and required airlines to pay passengers for delays and cancellations in more circumstances, with compensation proposed between about $200 and as high as $775. But the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-delays-cancellations-compensation-52d65b39d2cf063c43885e71bf88317c">scrapped that last month</a>, and the airlines praised him for doing so.

Each airline is different. The U.S. Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/airline-customer-service-dashboard" target="_blank">commitments that each carrier makes</a>&nbsp;for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

Travel insurance might help if you bought a policy when you booked or used a travel credit card that offers that product, but Potter said you shouldn’t assume you will be covered even if you have insurance. Check the fine print to see if you are covered in situations like this when a shortage of workers causes flight disruptions.

If many flights are canceled, airline agents will soon be overwhelmed by requests. If you’re traveling in a group with someone who has a higher status in the airline’s loyalty program, call using their frequent flyer number. You may get quicker service.

You also can try calling your airline’s international support number, which is usually listed online and may have shorter wait times.

Be nice. The agent is likely helping other frustrated travelers, too, and yelling won’t make them more willing to help. Remember, the cancellation isn’t their fault.

What to do if your flight is delayed or canceled during the US government shutdown

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in vehicle crash and fire that left a passenger dead is due back in court on Thursday.&nbsp;

Christian Sheppard, 33 of Wichita, is charged with 2nd degree murder and is scheduled to attend a arraignment hearing before Judge Tyler Roush, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He may enter a plea in the case.

On Dec. 29, police responded to a collision in the 200 block of N. Charles Street in Wichita, according to a media release. First responders found the vehicle that struck a tree and fence and caught fire. A passenger, identified as 32-year-old Chekiel Wright, died, and the driver, later identified as Sheppard was seriously injured.

On May 21, police arrested Sheppard.&nbsp; He met the requirement of a $250,000 bond and was released from custody, according to online jail records.

Arraignment hearing for Kansas driver in fatal crash and fire 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans voted down legislation Wednesday that would have put a check on President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump’s</a>&nbsp;ability to use deadly military force against drug cartels after Democrats tried to counter the administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cartels-armed-conflict-cb57804807e55a00ace60ad5f4d4f24d">extraordinary assertion of presidential war powers</a>&nbsp;to destroy vessels in the Caribbean.

The vote fell mostly along party lines, 48-51, with two Republicans, Sens. Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski, voting in favor and Democratic Sen. John Fetterman voting against. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the measure.

It was the first vote in Congress on Trump’s military campaign, which according to the White House has so far&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hegseth-venezuela-drug-cartels-unlawful-combatants-1848b02febe08acacb82979d7da47dfb">destroyed four vessels</a>, killed at least 21 people and stopped narcotics from reaching the U.S.. The war powers resolution would have required the president to seek authorization from Congress before further military strikes on the cartels.

The Trump administration has asserted that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/caribbean-indictments-armed-forces-united-states-miami-d82797206561db03851e47df125c243f">drug traffickers</a>&nbsp;are armed combatants threatening the United States, creating justification to use military force. But that assertion has been met with some unease on Capitol Hill.

Some Republicans are asking the White House for more clarification on its legal justification and specifics on how the strikes are conducted, while Democrats insist they are violations of U.S. and international law. It’s a clash that could redefine how the world’s most powerful military uses lethal force and set the tone for future global conflict.

The White House had indicated Trump would veto the legislation, and even though the Senate vote failed it gave lawmakers an opportunity to go on the record with their objections to Trump’s declaration that the U.S. is in “armed conflict” with drug cartels.

“It sends a message when a significant number of legislators say, ‘Hey, this is a bad idea,’” said Sen. Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat who pushed the resolution alongside Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff of California.

Wednesday's vote was brought under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, which was intended to reassert congressional power over the declaration of war.

“Congress must not allow the executive branch to become judge, jury and executioner,” Paul, a Kentucky Republican who has long pushed for greater congressional oversight of war powers, said during a floor speech.

Paul was the only Republican to publicly speak in favor of the resolution before the vote, but a number of GOP senators have questioned the strikes on vessels and said they are not receiving enough information from the administration.

Sen. Kevin Cramer, a North Dakota Republican, acknowledged “there may be some concern” in the Republican conference about the strikes. However, Republican leaders argued against the resolution on the Senate floor Wednesday, calling it a political ploy from Democrats.

“People were attacking our country by bringing in poisonous substances to deposit into our country that would have killed Americans,” said Sen. Jim Risch, the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “Fortunately most of those drugs are now at the bottom of the ocean.”

Risch thanked Trump for his actions and added that he hoped the military strikes would continue.

What has the administration told Congress about the strikes?

Members of the Senate Armed Services Committee received a classified briefing last week on the strikes, and Cramer said he was “comfortable with at least the plausibility of their legal argument.” But he added that no one representing intelligence agencies or the military command structure for Central and South America was present for the briefing.

“I’d be more comfortable defending the administration if they shared the information,” he said.

Kaine also said the briefing did not include any information on why the military chose to destroy the vessels rather than interdict them or get into the specifics of how the military was so confident that the vessels were carrying drugs.

“Maybe they were engaged in human trafficking, or maybe it was the wrong ship,” Schiff said. “We just have little or no information about who was onboard these ships or what intelligence was used or what the rationale was and how certain we could be that everyone on that ship deserved to die.”

The Democrats also said the administration has told them it is adding cartels to a list of organizations deemed “narco-terrorists” that are targets for military strikes, but it has not shown the lawmakers a complete list.

“The slow erosion of congressional oversight is not an abstract debate about process,” Sen. Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said in a floor speech. “It is a real and present threat to our democracy.”

Secretary of State&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/marco-rubio">Marco Rubio</a>&nbsp;visited the Republican Conference for lunch Wednesday to emphasize to senators that they should vote against the legislation. He told the senators the administration was treating cartels like governmental entities because they have seized control of large portions of some Caribbean nations, according to Sen. John Hoeven of North Dakota.

“These drug trafficking organizations are a direct threat to the safety and security of the United States to unleash violence and criminality on our streets, fueled by the drugs and the drug profits that they make,” Rubio told reporters at the Capitol. “And the president is the commander in chief, has an obligation to keep our country safe.”

Still, there is worry in the Senate that the recent buildup of U.S. maritime forces in the Caribbean was a sign of shifting U.S. priorities and tactics that could have grave repercussions. Senators warned that further military strikes had the potential to set off a conflict with Venezuela.

“This is the kind of thing that leads a country, unexpectedly and unintentionally, into war," Schiff said.

Following the vote, Sen. Todd Young, an Indiana Republican, said in a statement that even though he voted against the resolution, he was still “highly concerned about the legality” of the strikes.

He also raised concern that the military buildup in the Caribbean could divert resources from countering China's military elsewhere. Young said he would be meeting with Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth about those concerns and also called for a hearing in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

“The administration should adhere to the Constitution and keep the people’s representatives informed on this critical national security issue,” he said.

Associated Press writer Lisa Mascaro contributed.

Moran, Marshall help Senate vote down check of Trump's use of war powers against cartels

DOUGLAS COUNTY—A man found a concerning device behind some drywall as he was remodeling a house in Lawrence.

Just before 1:30p.m. Wednesday, he called dispatchers from the 900 block of Iowa with the grenade in his truck, according to a statement from Lawrence Police.

Local

Region

Sports

Weather