<a href="https://www.replaysportscards.com/">Replay Sports Cards&nbsp;</a>(“Replay”), America’s first national franchise dedicated exclusively to the hobby, has signed a new franchise agreement&nbsp;with&nbsp;Andrea&nbsp;Deatrich&nbsp;to bring a location to Salina.

The shop is targeting an opening in&nbsp;late spring, introducing Replay’s modern, community-driven card shop experience to a market underserved by traditional sports card retail.

The Salina agreement&nbsp;represents&nbsp;another step in Replay’s strategic franchise growth, as the brand continues to partner with operators who combine business acumen with a passion for the hobby and community engagement.

“Our goal is to build a shop that feels welcoming, educational, and fun for collectors of all ages,” said&nbsp;Deatrich.&nbsp;“Replay gives us the structure, credibility, and support to open a business that can grow with the community while staying true to what makes the hobby special.”

After&nbsp;identifying&nbsp;an opportunity to bring a modern card shop experience to Salina,&nbsp;Andrea, alongside her husband David,&nbsp;selected Replay as the right platform to launch their business.

A&nbsp;Family-Driven Approach to the Hobby&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Deatrichs&nbsp;were drawn to Replay after bonding over collecting with their son, Dylan. They saw an opportunity to turn that shared passion into a long-term business that connects collectors and families throughout the Salina community.&nbsp;The couple plans to make Replay a hub for collectors through trade nights, live breaks, grading services, and community-focused events.

“Replay’s franchise model stood out because of its national reach and collaborative network,” said&nbsp;David Deatrich.&nbsp;“The ability to tap into shared inventory, systems, and expertise gives us a strong foundation to build a sustainable local business.”

The&nbsp;Deatrichs&nbsp;are currently vetting a general manager and&nbsp;additional&nbsp;staff to oversee day-to-day operations and deliver Replay’s customer-first experience in Salina.

Replay Sports Cards continues to expand through franchising, offering entrepreneurs a proven system that modernizes the traditional card shop while preserving the heart of the hobby.&nbsp;The agreement reflects continued demand for Replay’s franchise model, which blends modern retail systems with a community-driven approach to the hobby.

“Andrea brings the leadership, perspective, and community-first mindset we look for in Replay franchisees,” said&nbsp;Mike&nbsp;Martin,&nbsp;Co-Founder of Franchising for Replay Sports Cards. “We’re excited to welcome Andrea and David to the Replay family and support the launch of Replay Sports Cards in Salina.”

<a href="https://www.replaysportscards.com/">Go here for more information about Replay Sports Cards.</a>

National sports cards business signs franchise agreement with local woman to build location in Salina

The Salina Family YMCA is welcoming new families to its Early Learning Centers (ELC), with openings available at all three of their Salina locations. 

Designed for children ages 6 weeks - 5 years, the YMCA’s early education programs go far beyond basic childcare — offering a nurturing, development-focused environment rooted in the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

At the YMCA, licensed childcare professionals provide enriching, age-appropriate activities that support social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. 

From arts and crafts and language development to social-emotional learning and school readiness preparation, each child is encouraged to grow with confidence and curiosity. The YMCA’s comprehensive preschool curriculum helps prepare children for the transition into kindergarten, giving them a strong foundation for future learning.

“With openings at all of our early learning locations, now is a great time for families to explore what the Y has to offer,” said Marti Higdon, Senior Director of Youth Development. “Our early learning classrooms are more than childcare, they’re a safe, supportive place where children can build foundational skills, make friends, and thrive in a community that cares about their growth.”

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/d2008eab-3d44-4b42-b4f1-35c5151c474d">The Salina Family YMCA’s Early Learning Centers are Praesidium Accredited</a>, reflecting the Y’s ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of every child in its care. This accreditation means the YMCA meets the highest standards in abuse prevention, staff training, screening, and program monitoring. For families, Praesidium accreditation provides added peace of mind, knowing their children are learning and growing in an environment built on trust, accountability, and proactive safety measures.

Enrollment is open now, and families interested in learning more or reserving a spot are encouraged to <a href="http://salinaymca.org/programs/child-care">visit the website</a> or contact Constance Zimmerman at czimmerman@salinaymca.org or 785.404.4031 for assistance.

Openings and registration open at Salina YMCA’s preschool & Early Learning Centers

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/267396805154598/">Salina Jeepers Club</a>&nbsp;are collaborating with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068315317205">Thursday Night Cruisers of Salina</a>&nbsp;to put together a dream vintage parade &amp; car show for a man in hospice care to fulfill his "last wish."

On January 31, the car show &amp; parade will occur in Buhler, KS from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm. The show will be held Buhler, KS near Sunshine Meadows Retirement Home on 400 S Buhler Rd.

Sunshine Meadows Retirement Home in Buhler serves the man who is in hospice care.

There is no entry fee and the parade/car show is open to anyone wishing to participate.

The Salina Jeepers Club has been active for over seven years and their mission is to bring community, positivity and connection.

"We proudly attend local events and fundraisers to support meaningful causes, but we also believe that simply showing up and spreading joy matter just as much," said Samantha Cook of Salina Jeepers Club. "At the core of our group is the belief that life can be hard, but there should always be something to look forward to. Through fun, kindness and community involvement, we aim to remind people that positivity still exists and that small moments can make a big impact."

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/267396805154598">To join the group or learn more about Salina Jeepers Club, go to their Facebook page.</a>

Salina car groups holding vintage parade & car show for man in hospice care to fulfill his "last wish" 

Saline County Sheriff's Office are seeking tips after a trailer burglary resulted in over $9,000 of items were stolen.

Original: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/19c2da51-8d2c-4951-a32f-d5a5fa7c25d9">Unknown suspect(s) steals over $9,000 worth of items from container</a>

According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office sometime between&nbsp; December 18, 2025 and January 8, 2026, an unknown suspect(s)&nbsp;forced entry into a white box trailer located in west Saline County (north of Hedville)

Reportedly, the suspect(s) gained access by cutting the lock and forcing the door open causing approximately $120 in damage to the trailer. 

Once entry was gained into the trailer, the following items were stolen:

Puma 8008GHE portable air compressor, a Pit Bull 14 Fusion machine with three sets of dies, and miscellaneous hand tools. 

The estimated loss in tools and equipment is approximately $9303.

If you have any information concerning who attempted to commit this crime, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637).&nbsp;

You may receive a cash reward of up to $1000 and you are not required to give your name.

UPDATE: Saline Co. Sheriff seeking tips after trailer burglary, over $9,000 of stolen items 

Following is recent booking activity for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salinecountyks.gov/Sheriff-Office/Online-search/Booking-Activities">Saline County Jail</a>, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;Khamdalanikone,Khamphun

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

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Liquor; Purch/poss/consume 18-20 yrs; unkn conv

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

Saline County Jail Bookings, January 30

Here is the lineup for the Saturday Morning Show with Dave Foor &amp; Nicolas Fierro on&nbsp;910 AM/107.5 FM KINA for&nbsp;January 31, 2026:

Rev. Shay Craig - Christ Cathedral Episcopal Church; moving to North Dakota to become 1st woman as Bishop of the Diocese

Juan Maldonado - Central Kansas United Fútbol Club

Susan Hawksworth - Smoky Hill Museum; 165th Kansas birthday

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

Saturday Morning Show lineup with Dave Foor & Nicolas Fierro, January 31, 2026

<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, January 30 - February 1

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

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

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

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

Recent obituaries and service times, how to submit an obituary

Salina Regional Health Center (SRHC) has been re-verified as a Level III Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). 

Trauma centers verified by the ACS must undergo a lengthy review every three years to insure standards for optimal care of injured patients are being met.

The ACS verification program looks at all aspects of trauma care from the prehospital phase to the rehabilitation process. Verified trauma centers also must remain focused on performance improvement to confirm processes in place lead to the best possible patient outcomes. 


Salina Regional was first verified as a Level III Trauma Center in 2012. This is the fifth time the hospital has been verified by the ACS. 

Since the Trauma Program was implemented at Salina Regional, a team of individuals with highly defined roles are on stand-by around the clock—ready to descend upon the emergency department whenever a trauma alert is received. 

Team members include a trauma surgeon, emergency department physician, trauma nurse, intensive care nurse, surgical nurse and staff from pharmacy, radiology, laboratory, blood bank, respiratory care, security and chaplaincy.

“The American College of Surgeons’ re-verification of Salina Regional Health Center as a Level III Trauma Center reaffirms our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional trauma care to patients in Saline County and across north central Kansas,” said Dr. Justin Klaassen, a trauma surgeon and medical director for the Trauma Program at Salina Regional. “This recognition highlights the expertise, hard work and teamwork of our EMS partners, emergency department clinicians, surgeons, nursing and rehabilitation staff, and the many support personnel who contribute to the care of critically injured patients. It also underscores our continued involvement within the Kansas Trauma System.”

Salina Regional Trauma Center receives re-verification from American College of Surgeons for 5th time

Saline County&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li_2024/b2023_24/members/rep_sanders_clarke_1/">Rep. Clarke Sanders</a> (R-Kansas, 69th District) and <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/members/sen_hill_scott_1/">Sen. Scott Hill</a> (R-Kansas, 24th District) gave comments on the passing of a Senate Bill, that would require government bathrooms to be designated to people's biological sex at birth.

The Kansas House and Senate voted on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/">Senate Bill 244</a>&nbsp;(SB244), Wednesday. The House passed on a 87-36 vote, along party lines with one Republican opposed. The Senate also voted with a 30-9 result, along party lines as well.

There is an expectation Governor Laura Kelly would veto the legislation, as there would need to be 84 House votes and 27 Senate votes to override the veto if that would happen.

Kansas Democrats argued the hearing of the bill was "rushed through the legislative process," given the fact the hearing was being held in less than a 24 hour notice and "without public input."

Sanders said legislators "followed the rules" and that constituents knew about this bill, as he received many emails regarding the hearing.

"There is a process, we followed the rules and somebody had a chance to talk to their constituents, because I got alot of emails on this bill, so people knew it was going to happen," he said.&nbsp;

Sanders added SB 244 was known about already, due to the fact that <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2426/">House Bill 2426</a> ("gender" to mean biological sex at birth, correct gender ID on driver's licenses and birth certificates) was introduced on January 12 and then added into the Senate bill, making it <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/">House Sub for SB244</a>.

However, the only difference was the addition of public bathrooms into the bill.

"There was already a set up bill before it even came over to us, and I think it's mischaracterizing to say that nobody knew about it," Sanders said.

His message to the public on why restricting public bathroom access based on sex at birth is necessary, is because he does not want "men in women's bathrooms and women in men's bathrooms."

"As a general rule we don't men in women's bathrooms and women in men's bathrooms, and I don't think that is unreasonable."

At the end of the hearing, there was no fiscal note that was made for how much the bill would cost. 

However, Sanders said there is no reason to place a fiscal note.

"There is no cost of the state, because bathrooms are already labeled as men, women or family. There are no labels that need to be changed or construction needed to be put in place."

Moreover with the arguments that the hearing of the bill was rushed, Sen. Hill stated a condensed session saves taxpayer dollars and the legislature operates on a rapid pace.

Hill also said the hearings were held in accordance with notification guidelines.

"The resultant recommendation to the House committee of the whole is subject to a calendar restraint however there is not a hour restriction, example 24 hours," he said. "That is a legalistic way of saying that although the bill was expedited, it was in no way improper."

He added the debate in Topeka was "robust," much more than any committee hearing ever is and the legislation was not passed from "lack of knowledge."

"This legislation was passed not from lack of knowledge, but rather from a sensitivity to the wishes of average Kansans that have made it very clear that they want to see biological males use male only facilities and biological females to use female only facilities."

Hill thought the statement of Kansas Democrats arguing there was "no public input" is flawed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The legislators are publicly elected officials, they are all accessible from the public and I know I am. The input directed to legislators both publicly and in private conversations are as valid as committee proceedings. The judiciary committee did not approve SB244 without knowledge of the content. I would contend that no issue in this legislature which began in 2025 has had more information and committee hearing time than the idea of protecting the private space of biological females and males. The opponents of this legislation may contend it only passed because the legislature was uninformed, however I think after 6 plus hours of debate in committee of the whole anyone who has not heard the issues on both sides is not capable of hearing."

There may be a slight cost to the reissuing of birth certificates with the correct biological birth sex, but would be easily absorbed according to Hill. With there being no fiscal note, he confirmed the same point as Sanders by stating "the use of restrooms and other designated spaces requires no changes of governmental buildings, since the spaces already exist and are designated."

Furthermore, Hill added if there is a fiscal note, it can be available before veto override if necessary.

"If there is a significant fiscal note it can be available before veto override if necessary. It is important to note that the changing of birth certificates that have already been done due to subverted previous legislation only increase in number the longer the length of time to clarify the previous legislation. That is a major component of how expedited this bill has been."

Rep. Sanders and Sen. Hill give comments over passing of Bill requiring government bathrooms designated to biological sex at birth

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Salina-Senior-Theatre-Project-100069630977046/">Salina Senior Theatre Project</a>&nbsp;(SSTP) will be showcasing a witty comedy with auditions being held before the selecting of the cast.

SSTP will hold auditions for "Dinner at Seven, Panic at Nine," a comedy by Iva Polansky, on Monday, February 23 &amp; Tuesday, February 24 at 7pm&nbsp;inside the Hawthorne Clubhouse (715 North 9th) in Salina.

The comedy is about&nbsp;longtime friends whose monthly dinner party erupts into chaos when one member reveals she's written a tell-all novel exposing everyone's secrets, comprised with a sharp exploration of friendship, truth and second acts in life.

Selections will be looking for 4 females and 3 male actors, open to anyone aged 50 plus, regardless of theatre experience.

Reading copies of the scripts can be obtained by calling 785-502-0017 or by email at: SSTP67401@yahoo.com

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Salina-Senior-Theatre-Project-100069630977046/">Go here to visit the&nbsp;Salina Senior Theatre Project Facebook page for more information.</a>

Salina Senior Theatre Project holding auditions for chaotic witty comedy 

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 28 - January 30

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 26 - January 28

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 23 - January 25

Saline County Emergency Management&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Wichita reports an&nbsp;Arctic outbreak and winter weather&nbsp;will impact Saline County&nbsp;beginning Friday and continuing through Monday morning, bringing&nbsp;dangerous cold, hazardous travel conditions, and&nbsp;accumulating snow.

Arctic air is expected to move into the area early Friday morning and persist through the weekend, with&nbsp;dangerous wind chills between -10°F and -20°F&nbsp;likely from Friday morning through Monday morning. The coldest conditions are expected during the overnight and early morning hours.

Snow&nbsp;is expected to begin late Friday afternoon or Friday evening and continue through Saturday night, with&nbsp;slick roads&nbsp;and&nbsp;hazardous travel&nbsp;possible. While higher snowfall totals are more likely south of Saline County, confidence is high that snow will affect the area.&nbsp;Travel impacts are expected&nbsp;due to&nbsp;reduced visibility, slick roads,&nbsp;and&nbsp;prolonged cold conditions.

A&nbsp;Winter Storm Watch&nbsp;remains in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday night, and an&nbsp;Extreme Cold Watch&nbsp;has been issued for the entire forecast area through Monday morning. Confidence is high in the timing and severity of the cold, with medium confidence in exact snowfall amounts due to potential shifts in the heaviest snow band.&nbsp;

<a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/55d47694801/2b6fb17f-1676-4697-ac6f-7c32ed6b5928.pdf?rdr=true">Click here to view the full packet of the upcoming severe weather</a>

Arctic outbreak & winter weather to impact Saline Co. Friday - Monday

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 21 - January 23

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 19 - January 21

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 16 - January 18

High wind gusts are expected to make its way through Salina and central Kansas on Friday.

According to the US National Weather Service, gusty&nbsp;northwest winds are forecasted during the day on Friday. Wind gusts are expected to range from 40-50 mph.

This is also paired with dry conditions, which there will be a very high grassland fire danger in the afternoon.

Russell is expected to have the highest speed of wind gusts with the range being 45-50 mph.

High temperatures for Salina is 41 degrees.

Stay updated with local weather on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NWSWichita">US National Weather Service Wichita Kansas</a>&nbsp;Facebook page.

High wind gusts and grassland fire danger expected throughout central Kansas, Salina on Friday

Three day weather forecast Salina, January 14 - January 16

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/josh-funk">JOSH FUNK</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/peter-smith">PETER SMITH</a> Associated Press

Nine people, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/don-lemon-arrest-minnesota-church-service-d3091fe3d1e37100a7c46573667eb85c">former CNN anchor Don Lemon</a>&nbsp;and another journalist — have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/don-lemon-arrest-minnesota-church-service-d3091fe3d1e37100a7c46573667eb85c">charged</a>&nbsp;with violating two different federal laws in connection with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-ice-doj-church-protest-st-paul-46dac5c5595ec78e3360ec927eef92d2">protest that interrupted a worship service at a Minnesota church</a>&nbsp;earlier this month.

The group that barged into a worship service that Sunday was upset that the head of a local field office for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement serves as a pastor. The protest was quickly denounced by President Donald Trump, Attorney General Pam Bondi and other officials, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-protest-church-minneapolis-fcc97a29b9c4434c665d76d4811c5a3e">many religious leaders</a>.

<a href="https://sortor.us/release/lemon.pdf">Click here to read </a>the full indictment

Lemon and a local reporter were covering the protest on Jan. 18 at the Cities Church in St. Paul. A grand jury in Minnesota indicted Lemon and others on charges of conspiracy and interfering with the First Amendment rights of worshippers. The indictment alleges various actions by the group that entered the church, including what Lemon said as he reported on the event for his livestream show.

The arrests of Lemon and independent journalist Georgia Fort are especially troubling for legal experts and media groups who worry about the chilling effect on coverage of the Trump administration.

David Harris, a University of Pittsburgh law professor specializing in criminal law, said the charges against the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-church-protest-history-58817d7033c6b83867131f4cee87256a">protesters</a>&nbsp;are more tenable, given the federal laws against disrupting the free exercise of worship. “A court will have to sort that out,” he said.

But charges against reporters are troubling, he said.

“Charging journalists for being there covering the disruption does not mean they were part of the disruption,” Harris said. “Don Lemon and other journalists are the way that we the public are finding out what is happening in these spaces,” he said. “They are our eyes and ears. The message that is being sent is that journalists like Don Lemon and others should feel intimidated from doing this.”

The two key laws cited in the complaints against those who were arrested were passed more than a century apart — one rooted in efforts to prevent intimidation by the post-Civil War Ku Klux Klan and the other to enable access to abortion clinics, though they both have had wider applications.

Law designed to protect access to abortion clinics and churches

The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances law, known as the FACE Act for short, was passed in 1994 to help ensure that patients seeking care at an abortion clinic — as well as the doctors and nurses who work there — could safely access the facilities that often draw protests. It followed incidents of violence targeting clinic workers.

A Republican-sponsored clause that provided for penalties for disruptions of worship services was also incorporated into the law.

Anti-abortion conservatives have denounced the law, focusing on the clinic protections. Trump last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-trump-executive-order-pardon-817774b21d32a4edf6d39ee43cbc18f4">pardoned</a>&nbsp;several people convicted for blockading clinics. His Justice Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justice-department-reproductive-care-clinics-prosecutions-5f693b186d0dd62fc693474aab7b5f3f">scaled back</a>&nbsp;FACE Act prosecutions of those accused of blocking clinics, claiming there had been a “weaponization” of the law.

But the U.S. Supreme Court, despite having overturned the Roe v. Wade decision that had legalized abortion nationwide, last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-buffer-zones-7979c3d747d7eab88f7e8b723397e768">refused</a>&nbsp;to hear a challenge to the constitutionality of FACE.

In 2025, 42 House Republicans co-sponsored legislation, introduced by Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, to repeal the FACE Act. The conservative Heritage Foundation supported the stalled repeal effort, calling the FACE Act “an ideological weapon” designed to suppress anti-abortion activity.

They have contended the worship-protection aspect of the law hasn’t been invoked in the past. In 2025, the Justice Department did invoke the act in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justice-department-lawsuit-reproductive-care-clinic-d8e45edcf962ea62b3d86251de103737">lawsuit</a>&nbsp;against demonstrators who protested outside of a synagogue.

Someone charged with their first violation of the FACE Act could be fined or sentenced up to one year in jail. Subsequent offenses, or charges that involve injuries, deaths or damage, could face tougher penalties.

The Conspiracy Against Rights law dates back to the post Civil War era

The other charges against Lemon and Fort are based on a law commonly known as the Conspiracy Against Rights law, which was enacted shortly after the Civil War. It was originally designed to target vigilante groups such as the Ku Klux Klan. The law prohibits intimidating or otherwise preventing someone from exercising constitutional rights.

The Klan had been targeting those newly freed from slavery, but over the years the law has been revised to apply to a wide range of violations of constitutional rights. It was used to charge suspects in the “Mississippi Burning” killings of three civil rights workers in 1964. It has been used in cases ranging from church arsons and antisemitic intimidation to political conspiracy and witness tampering.

The law carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison –- or more if it involves injury, death or destruction of property.

Harris said it’s important for Americans to be able to see what’s happening so they can make up their own minds, instead of only hearing officials describe what happened.

“We all have had the experience of them telling us things that simply do not square with what we see with our own eyes,” he said. “Journalists being present to witness these things and report them are crucial to our being able to make our minds about what our government is doing.”

Jonathan Manes, senior counsel in the MacArthur Justice Center’s Illinois Office, agreed.

“It’s astonishing that the federal government is criminally charging journalists for covering a protest,” said Manes, whose work focuses on governmental civil rights violations.

“The crucial point is that a journalist covering activities going on is not part of those activities,” he said. “None of this is to say that the protest here was a good thing or that it was even allowed, but journalists shouldn’t be charged federally with conspiracy when they’re covering it.”

AP reporters Tiffany Stanley in Washington and Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu contributed.

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

Read the indictment: Former CNN anchor charged with 2 federal crimes

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —A family lost their home to a fire on Thursday.

Just before 10:30a.m., the&nbsp;Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a house fire located at 25098 P. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The Holton, Mayetta and Solder Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene along with Jackson County EMS and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. 

The&nbsp; fire resulted in the complete loss of the h9ome The residents of the address were not home at the time of the fire. There were no injuries reported. A relief account has been established at the Denison State Bank for the family, according to Morse.

Sheriff: Rural Kansas home destroyed by fire

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/cora-lewis">CORA LEWIS</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — Tax filing season is underway, and the IRS expects 164 million people will file returns by April 15.

The average refund last year was $3,167. This year, analysts have projected it could be $1,000 higher, thanks to changes in tax law. More than 165 million individual income tax returns were processed last year, with 94% submitted electronically.

People with straightforward returns should not encounter delays, but because of an exodus of IRS workers since the start of the Trump administration, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/irs-tax-season-taxpayer-advocate-report-cd82286bb60e7e896b5372da25178b1e">national taxpayer advocate has cautioned</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasury-irs-tax-season-fd379f43d501d064cdad046eb32fb9f6">the 2026 tax filing season</a>&nbsp;is likely to present challenges for those who run into problems filing.

While last year IRS employees were not permitted to accept a buyout offer from the Trump administration until after the taxpayer filing deadline, many of those customer service workers have now left. The IRS started 2025 with about 102,000 employees and finished with roughly 74,000 after a series of firings and layoffs led by the Department of Government Efficiency.

If you file electronically, the IRS says it should take 21 days or less to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-season-refund-debt-credit-personal-finance-39412fe2d14f39fc3237e50789c10dc9">receive your refund</a>. If you choose direct deposit, it should take even less time. If you file a paper return, the refund could take four weeks or more, and if your return requires amendments or corrections, it could take longer.

The IRS cautions that taxpayers not rely on receiving a refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills.

Taxpayers can use the online tool&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/wheres-my-refund" target="_blank">Where’s My Refund?</a>&nbsp;to check the status of their refund within 24 hours of e-filing and generally within four weeks of filing a paper return. The “Where’s My Refund?” tool will also provide projected deposit dates for most early EITC/ACTC refund filers by Feb. 21, according to the IRS.

Information related to this tool is updated once daily, overnight. To access the status of your refund, you’ll need:

— Your Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN)

Taxpayers can also consult the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/irs2goapp" target="_blank">IRS2Go</a>&nbsp;app, or their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-account-for-individuals" target="_blank">IRS Individual Online Account</a>, to check their refund status.

If you paid more through the year than you owe in tax, due to withholding or other reasons, you should get money back. Even if you didn’t pay excess tax, you may still get a refund if you qualify for a refundable credit, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit. To get your refund, you must file a return, and you have three years to claim a tax refund.

Who qualifies for the Earned Income Tax Credit

To qualify for the EITC, you must have under $11,950 in investment income and earn less than a specific income level from working.

If you’re single with no children, your income level must be $19,104 or below. And if you’re married filing jointly with three or more children, you must make $68,675 or below. To determine if your household qualifies based on your marital status and your number of dependents you can use the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/use-the-eitc-assistant" target="_blank">online EITC Assistant tool.</a>

Who qualifies for the Child Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit

If you have a child, you are most likely eligible for the Child Tax Credit. The credit is up to $2,200 per qualifying child. To qualify, a child must:

— Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (for example, a grandchild, niece or nephew)

— Not provide more than half of his or her own support for the tax year

— Have lived with you for more than half the tax year

— Be claimed as a dependent on your tax return

— Not file a joint return for the year (or filed the joint return only to claim a refund of taxes withheld or estimated taxes)

— Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or a U.S. resident alien

You qualify for the full amount of the Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return).

You qualify for the Additional Child Tax Credit if ($1,700 per qualifying child) if you meet these factors and have little or no federal income tax liability. You must have earned income of at least $2,500 to be eligible for the ACTC.

When the tax credits will become available

The IRS expects most refunds for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit to be available in bank accounts or on debit cards by March 2 for taxpayers who choose direct deposit. Some taxpayers may receive their refund earlier, depending on their financial institution.

This year, most taxpayers must provide their routing and account numbers to receive refunds directly deposited into their bank accounts. That’s because the IRS began phasing out paper tax refund checks on Sept. 30 in accordance with an executive order.

The Associated Press receives support from the Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism.

Here's when you'll get your tax refund from the IRS

On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly welcomed 35 new Americans as they took the Oath of Allegiance and officially became citizens of the United States—and Kansans during a ceremony at the Statehouse.

On her social media account the Governor wrote, "Today’s Naturalization Ceremony serves as a powerful reminder that our nation is strengthened by those who choose to call it home."

Governor welcomes 35 new Americans during ceremony at Kan. Statehouse

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement made an arrest after a suspect had a difficult time navigating a fast food restaurant drive-through.

Just before 10:30p.m. January 25, police&nbsp;responded to a report of a vehicle stuck near a fast-food drive-through in the 12000 block of Shawnee Mission Parkway, according to a social media report from the Shawnee, Kansas Police. The driver was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.

"Driving impaired puts everyone at risk. Please help keep our roads safe by planning responsibly. Use a designated driver, a ride-share service, or food delivery instead of driving under the influence."

Police: Impaired Kan. driver struck in restaurant drive-through

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a> <a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — The federal government began a partial shutdown early Saturday, even though Senate Democrats and President Donald Trump reached a deal that allows lawmakers more time to negotiate new constraints on immigration enforcement.&nbsp;

The Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1192/vote_119_2_00020.htm" target="_blank">voted 71-29</a>&nbsp;on Friday evening to pass the reworked government funding package before a midnight deadline. But the earliest the House could clear it for Trump’s signature is Monday evening, when members return from a recess.

The scheduling problem guarantees the current spending law, which Congress approved in November at the end of the last shutdown, will expire without a replacement.&nbsp;

However, the effects on the nation are not expected to be as dramatic as those during the historic 43-day shutdown last year. Since Congress has already passed half of the dozen annual appropriations bills, this shutdown will only affect part of the government, and possibly with moderate impacts since it may only last a few days until the House acts.

The unexpected hitch in progress toward passing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7148/text" target="_blank">the $1.2 trillion package</a>&nbsp;came about after immigration agents killed a second person in Minneapolis and Senate Democrats demanded reforms be included in the Department of Homeland Security spending bill. Trump has agreed to two weeks of negotiations on the DHS bill, which includes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Customs and Border Protection and other immigration enforcement agencies.

Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Susan Collins, R-Maine, said the full-year measures are “fiscally responsible bills that reflect months of hard work and deliberation from members from both parties and both sides of the Capitol.”

“The package also continues funding for the Department of Homeland Security for two weeks to allow us additional time to evaluate further changes in ICE procedures beyond those that we have already included in this bill,” she said.&nbsp;

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