The 4th annual Central Kansas 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and Family 5k walk is set to occur in September.

On Saturday, September 13 starting&nbsp;8:00 am at JRI Stadium on the campus of Kansas Wesleyan, will be the annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb organized by Salina Guns &amp; Hoses.&nbsp;

Registration is open today and those wishing to participate can do so as well by registering at 7:00 am the day of the event (Scan QR code on the flyer above to register).

Cost is $30 per person and all proceeds will be donated to 3-year old Ezra and his family.

Ezra was diagnosed with Hepatoblastoma (rare liver cancer) on May 2024. With the liver tumor touching his heart, Ezra endured six rounds of chemo in an attempt to shirk the tumor before having his first surgery on August 2024. He has had double lung surgery, where 17 tumors were removed from his lungs. Pathology reports showed a more aggressive cancer, Hepatocellular Neoplasm NOS.

Ezra just had his second lung surgery, removing three more tumors.&nbsp;

"Ezra is a strong, brave little hero, and his mom (Breann) and family are by his side, cheering him on!" (statement from the flyer).

The stair climb is a physical and emotional tribute to the firefighters and first responders who sacrificed their lives for lives of others during the September 11th attacks at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon in 2001. Participants climb the equivalent of 110 stories, which is the height of the World Trade Center towers.

Other key aspects about the event include a tribute to the fallen, a symbolic journey, emotional impact and a physical challenge. Michael Ascher of Salina Guns &amp; Hoses said this year, the climb will be focused on the community.

"We believe by bringing civil service together for the goal of helping local families in need, we not only improve the working relationship between law enforcement, fire and EMT, but we also improve public trust," stated Ascher. "This event aligns perfectly with our mission and vision."

Salina Guns &amp; Hoses has partnered with Be Assure, Be Wealth, Kansas Wesleyan and several other loyal sponsors to make the memorial stair climb the largest event to date. A "paddle battle" pickleball tournament will also occur during the event.

4th annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb set for September in Salina 

After the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">public meet &amp; greet and&nbsp;closed interviews with the Salina City Commission</a>, the decision on a new City Manager is still pending.

The decision on the fulfillment of the City Manager position for Salina has yet to be announced. Finalists <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">Jacob Wood</a>, <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">Darrin Tangeman</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">Michael Tremblay</a> each made an appearance at the public meet &amp; greet that took place at the Stiefel Theatre on Monday, August 11.

According to the Human Resources Director for the City of Salina, Natalie Fischer, after closed interviews the Commissioners conducted with the finalists on Tuesday, August 12th, no decision was made. 

Fischer mentioned City of Salina staff are currently awaiting a decision from the Commissioners.

Fischer is unsure of the Commissioner's timeline on a decision.

Salina Post will provide updates and the decision on the new City Manager once received.

UPDATE: Decision on Salina City Manager still pending

A 2-year old girl from Salina has been nominated as part of a nationwide competition for a chance to win "Toddler of the Year," by <a href="https://www.toysfortots.org/">Toys for Tots</a>.

Salina born, Londyn Carter has a chance to win $25,000.00, a photoshoot campaign for brands, lead the "Hollywood Christmas Parade," and visiting the Peppa Pig Amusement Park in Florida. Carter has been&nbsp;a competitor for the last several weeks for "Toddler of the Year" in partnership with <a href="https://shop.hasbro.com/en-us">Hasbro</a> and <a href="https://www.toysfortots.org/">Toys for Tots. </a>&nbsp;She has placed top 20, top 15 and top 10.

If given the chance to win, the money would go towards Londyn and her siblings college funds.&nbsp;

Her parents are Casey Herring (Joel Lutz) and Andrew Aronson of Salina, KS. Herring stated Londyn was born in Salina two months premature and spent a short time in the NICU with her twin brother. 

"Londyn now enjoys playing with her siblings, feeding farm animals, riding tractors and keeping everyone on their toes," said Herring. "$25,000 would be a blessing for our family as we have endured several obstacles over the years. This would help start schooling funds for Londyn and her siblings."

Londyn is now in running for top 5 that ends Thursday August 21st. After the voting ends, the start of group finals occurs. But the competition still has several stages to go, beginning and ending every Thursday until September 25th.

Voting is free once daily through:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftoddleroftheyear.org%2F2025%2Flondyn-70df%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExRFBRb1VPSUh6U2RiSUZvYwEeWlbnHAODcwMiQtpuHlHrwJfC_2POC0XmJsbtXF4fy7CEYxWv2BWDBYkS6Tw_aem_9byjolzcJPn5xKq2ry4V2g&amp;h=AT3Gr4WG1Ln8GH-EHIiLLBQTfj6arjKf30jkmoZVUURhXd0uY9uGFiLMk5PX-ktNRafOfCe33j9xt-RsfvqL7a88TJO6GDjB_7TDkzrw7OQS3y4Y9gdGFKqmgKsyEdNrxzW7R-jLFtY">https://toddleroftheyear.org/2025/londyn-70df</a>

Buying votes is also an option through the link. All proceeds from buying votes goes towards donations for Toys for Tots.

Vote Salina born Londyn for nationwide competition "Toddler of the Year"

Central Kansas shoppers now have a brand-new way to score deals on jewelry, dining, entertainment, and more with the launch of&nbsp;<a href="http://SalinaMarketplace.com">SalinaMarketplace.com</a>.

The&nbsp;Salina Marketplace&nbsp;features over&nbsp;$10,000 worth of items and experiences, including restaurant gift cards, jewelry, zoo passes, concert tickets, advertising packages and unique gifts from local businesses. Shoppers can browse the catalog and&nbsp;pay what they want&nbsp;for each item.

From dinner-and-a-show packages at the Stiefel Theatre and Martinelli’s, to premium jewelry from Vernon Jewelers, to radio advertising campaigns and family experiences, there’s something for everyone.

But hurry—all Marketplace items close this Friday, August 22nd at 5:00 pm. Once they’re gone, they’re gone!

“Salina Marketplace is a chance for shoppers to support local businesses and get great deals at the same time,” said [Insert Name/Title if you want a quote]. “It’s a win-win for the community.”

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.salinamarketplace.com/">www.SalinaMarketplace.com</a>&nbsp;today to shop, save, and discover something new!

Man arrested after throwing rocks at operating vehicles in Salina

A woman was arrested after threatening a teenage girl with a knife inside a home.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Sunday, August 17th at around noon, a teenage girl called police about her female relative threatening her with a knife inside a home in South Salina.

SPD immediately arrived to the home and arrested 30-year old, Maria Perez-Aguilar without incident. According to SPD, Perez-Aguilar was going through a 'mental-health crisis' when she threatened the girl.

Perez-Aguilar was transported to Salina Regional Health Center for a medical evaluation. She is facing requested charges of Aggravated Assault and Child Endangerment.

Woman arrested after threatening a teenage girl with a knife inside a home

CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting in connection with a robbery and are searching for a suspect.

Just after 11p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 300 Block of East 1st Street in Concordia after report of a man with a gunshot wound, according to a media release.

At the scene, police found the victim with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. Officers and first responders from the Concordia Fire Department rendered life-saving aid at the scene. The victim was then transported to a local hospital for additional medical treatment.

Officers secured the scene, obtained witness statement and identified individuals believed to be connected to the incident. Police detained three individuals for interviews as part of the investigation. Police also executed search warrants at the scene and a second location.&nbsp; Police are working with outside agencies in an effort to locate and apprehend the suspect.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police have forward charges of first degree attempted murder and two counts of aggravated robbery to the Cloud County Attorney.&nbsp; Police released no additional details including the possible suspect.

Police: Man shot during robbery in north central Kansas

Two suspects were arrested after a home invasion and allegedly assaulting the homeowner.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Friday, August 15th just before 5:00 pm, a male victim of a home invasion called police about two suspects allegedly stealing cash and assaulting him.

Reportedly, two male armed suspects broke into his home on the 400 block of S. Ohio. Both suspects stole an undisclosed amount of cash from the victim and hit him in the mouth with a pistol, causing a minor injury.&nbsp;

The suspects then left in a vehicle, and it was reported that one of the suspects is known to the victim.

About an hour later, SPD located a vehicle that matched the description of the suspect's on Westport Blvd. An officer conducted a traffic stop and arrested both suspects without incident. No firearms were recovered at the time of the arrest.

Arrested was 45-year old, James Floyd and 52-year old, Anthony Miller.

Both were charged with Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault and Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Felon.

The victim did not need any medical treatment.

Two suspects arrested in connection to home invasion and alleged assault of the homeowner

Salina Police arrest a man who admitted to exposing himself to two females in Central Salina.&nbsp;

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Friday, August 15th at around 10:00 am, the police department received a call about a man who exposed himself to a woman and her daughter in Central Salina.&nbsp;

After the report, officers arrived to the area and came in contact with the suspect. Reportedly, the suspect was found to have his shorts unzipped and admitted he exposed himself to the victims.

Officers then arrested 61-year old, Gerald Shaw. Shaw was booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges of Lewd &amp; Lasciviousness and Possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Salina PD arrest man who admitted to exposing himself to two females

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

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

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

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

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

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

Salina Post obituary policy (subject to change)

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

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

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

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

Recent obituaries and service times

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 18 - August 20

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

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

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

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

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 15 - August 17

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 13 - August 15

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

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

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

Central Kansas Weather Forecast: August 12 - August 16

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 11 - August 13

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 8 - August 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 6 - August 8

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran led his Kansas delegation colleagues Sen. Roger Marshall, and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Ron Estes (KS-04) in urging President Trump to make a disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe wind storms, flooding and tornadoes that occurred from June 3 through June 7, according to a statement from Moran's office.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly formally submitted the request for federal support on August 6, 2025.

“We write today in support of Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a major disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred from June 3 through June 7, 2025,”&nbsp;wrote the delegation.&nbsp;

“The aftermath of these natural disasters has left lasting impacts on the communities affected beyond when the storms have taken place.”“According to the National Weather Service, the state of Kansas experienced near record values of atmospheric moisture through a very deep layer which is more typical of a tropical environment as opposed to Kansas,”&nbsp;continued the delegation.&nbsp;

“This resulted in dangerous flash flooding across the state, with many counties experiencing the heaviest rainfall between 5-12 inches occurred.”

“Due to the extent of the damage, it will be important to have federal support available to assist rural electric cooperatives and municipally owned utilities rebuild their electric utility infrastructure,” Governor Kelly said.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management requested a joint Public Assistance Program to assess the damage caused in early June. Counties included in this letter include: Barber, Butler, Chase, Cowley, Coffey, Franklin, Greenwood, Harper, Hodgeman, Kingman, Lyon, Morris, Osage, Stanton, Sumner and Wallace.

Kan. delegation asks Trump to make disaster declaration for June storm damage

NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon is now rolling out a service where its Prime members can order their blueberries and milk at the same time as basic items like batteries and T-shirts and get them within hours.

The online juggernaut said that customers in more than 1,000 cities and towns including Raleigh, North Carolina; Milwaukee; and Columbus, Ohio, now have access to fresh groceries with its free same-day delivery service on orders over $25 for Prime members, with plans to reach over 2,300 cities and towns by year-end.

Amazon called the move “one of the most significant grocery expansions” for the online retailer as it introduces thousands of perishable items into its existing logistics network. The expansion is expected to put pressure on grocery delivery services offered by such rivals as Walmart, Kroger and Target, which all saw their shares take a hit in trading Wednesday.

Amazon said that if an order doesn’t meet the minimum, members can still choose same-day delivery for a $2.99 fee. For customers without a Prime membership, the service is available with a $12.99 fee, regardless of order size.

In the past, Prime subscribers’ grocery orders were fulfilled through Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market.

Prime members pay $14.99 monthly or $139 annually.

Amazon launched its Prime membership in 2005, and it has become the gold standard for subscription services with a slew of perks including unlimited streaming with Prime Video and discounts at Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh. Walmart, which launched its membership program called Walmart + in 2020, has been racing to add more benefits. It costs $12.95 per month or $98 per year. Depending on members' location and availability, Walmart members can schedule same-day delivery for their groceries, including perishables.

“We’re continuously innovating to make grocery shopping simpler, faster, and more affordable for our customers, especially Prime members,” said Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores, in a statement. “By introducing fresh groceries into our Same-Day Delivery service, we’re creating a quick and easy experience for customers. ”

Herrington noted that customers can order milk alongside electronics; oranges, apples, and potatoes with a mystery novel; and frozen pizza at the same time as tools for their next home improvement project—and check out with one cart and have everything delivered to their doorstep within hours.

The company first tested the service in Phoenix, last year, and then added Orlando, Florida and Kansas City, Missouri, earlier this year.

Amazon noted that many of its customers were first-time Amazon grocery shoppers who now return to shop twice as often with the same-day deliver service compared to those who didn't purchase food. It also noted that based on early sales, strawberries now regularly knock AirPods out of the top five best sellers of all products sold, while bananas, Honeycrisp apples, limes, and avocados round out the top ten best-selling perishable grocery items in their same-day delivery carts.

“It's a nice step forward,” said Jason Goldberg, chief commerce strategy officer at Publicis Groupe, a global marketing and communications company. “It definitely makes them more competitive" in perishables.

Goldberg noted that Amazon has struggled to succeed in fresh food and that shoppers have been confused ordering shelf stable items and perishables, and having them appear in different online shopping carts, including Amazon Fresh. He said this move will greatly improve the experience.

Amazon said it generated over $100 billion in gross sales of groceries and household essentials last year not including sales from Whole Foods Market and Amazon Fresh.

In June, Amazon said it was investing more than $4 billion to triple the size of its delivery network by 2026, with a focus on small towns and rural communities across the country.

It also noted that it's using artificial intelligence to help it predict local customer preferences so it can stock popular items alongside items targeted for specific communities

Amazon expands its delivery service, putting pressure on traditional grocers

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald Trump answered questions from the media prior to&nbsp;&nbsp;critical talks on Ukraine with European leaders at the White House on Monday.

A reported who was critical of Zelenskyy's appearance during a February meeting, praised what Zelenskyy was wearing for the Monday meeting and apologized for his earlier comments.

🎥President Zelensky wears a suit to White House meeting

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in a fatal hit-and-run will face a judge on Monday afternoon.

Gauge Brasher, 19, is scheduled to make a first appearance in court, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

&nbsp;Wichita police took Brasher&nbsp; into custody shortly after 4 p.m. Friday in the 3100 block of E. Range Road, according to a statement from Wichita Police.

Around 6:30 p.m. August 13, a nearby Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in the area saw the aftermath of fatal crash that killed&nbsp;14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa and saw two men running from a black BMW that had crashed. After a short foot pursuit, both men were apprehended.

The preliminary investigation indicated the BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit a power pole and then a utility box. The impact forced the power pole and utility box into Nzabonimpa, who died on scene from his injuries.&nbsp;

Witnesses at the intersection identified the 19-year-old suspect Gauge Brasher, who fled as the driver. He is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. The investigation indicated that impairment and speed were likely contributing factors in the collision. Brasher was admitted to the hospital for medical treatment and later left the hospital. The passenger is a 24-year-old man who was detained and later released with no charges.&nbsp;

Police investigators presented the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, and Brasher was charged with second-degree murder in the Aug. 13, crash.

Suspect who hid after fatal Kansas crash will face a judge

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

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

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

Kansas man dies in motorcycle, SUV crash

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas marks first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1)&nbsp;Coming off a third-straight season of at least nine wins, No. 17 Kansas State begins the 2025 campaign in style as the Wildcats take on Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic on Saturday inside Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The game, which kicks off at 11 a.m. CT (5 p.m. IST), will be shown on ESPN with Dave Pasch (play-by-play), Dusty Dvoracek (analyst) and Taylor McGregor (sidelines) on the call.

2)&nbsp;This is only the second time in program history that the Wildcats are opening a season with a conference opponent. The first came in 1996 when K-State faced Texas Tech in the inaugural Big 12 game inside then-KSU Stadium in Manhattan. The trip across the Atlantic Ocean is the second time Kansas State will play on foreign soil as the Cats faced Nebraska in Tokyo, Japan, in 1992.

3)&nbsp;Quarterback Avery Johnson is set to make his 15th-career start under center. The Wichita, Kansas, product has led the Wildcats to a 10-4 record in his first 14 starts. A junior, Johnson returns after setting the school record with 25 touchdown passes in 2024. He is joined in the backfield by running back Dylan Edwards, who set a K-State bowl record with 196 yards in the 2024 Rate Bowl.

4)&nbsp;K-State’s receiving corps is headlined by its tight ends as four players combined for 13 receiving touchdowns last year, which was the most in the nation. At wide receiver, Jayce Brown is back after totaling 823 yards and five touchdowns a year ago, including a 106-yard, two-touchdown game at Iowa State. Transfers with experience in Jaron Tibbs (Purdue) and Jerand Bradley (Texas Tech/BC) enter the mix as well.

5)&nbsp;The Wildcats’ top two tacklers from a year ago are back in linebacker Austin Romaine (96) and safety VJ Payne (64). Alongside Romaine at linebacker is Des Purnell, who has started 26 career games and is coming off a season in which he had a career-high 9.5 tackles for loss. A combined 49 starts are back along the defensive line, headlined by tackle Damian Ilalio, who has 16 in his career after starting all 13 games in 2024.

STATISTICAL SPOTLIGHTS4,140&nbsp;– Miles “as the crow flies” between Manhattan and Dublin. It is the second-furthest game from MHK (Tokyo in 1992 – 6,127).

144&nbsp;– Big 12 victories by K-State since the conference's inception in 1996, the most among active programs.

13&nbsp;– TD receptions by K-State’s tight end unit in 2024, the most in the nation; All players that accounted for those TDs are back.

4&nbsp;– Victories last year when trailing in the fourth quarter, which were the second most in the nation (Illinois, 5).

1&nbsp;– The Aer Lingus College Football Classic is the first NCAA football game of 2025 among all of Divisions I, II and III.

TEAM NOTESGETTING THE PARTY STARTED

• K-State will play in the first Division I college football game of the 2025 season when the Wildcats take on Iowa State in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic on Saturday.

• That matchup is one of only five FBS games this week before the entire slate gets underway next week.

• The Wildcats will be playing abroad for just the second time in program history as they faced Nebraska in Tokyo, Japan, in 1992.

• This season will be the first ever Big 12 matchup in Ireland, the fourth edition of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic and the 10th college football game all-time played in Ireland.

• With K-State checking in at No. 17 and Iowa State at No. 22 in the preseason Associated Press Top 25, this is the first Aer Lingus College Football Classic featuring two ranked teams and believed to be the first international game to lay that claim.

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