Artists from across the region are headed to Arkansas City, Kansas for a Cowboy Poetry weekend event this October.

For the second year in a row, cowboy poets from Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas will come together to celebrate cowboy culture. This free event will run from October 11-12 at Rivers Eagle Bar &amp; Grill (31332 61st Lane South, Arkansas City, KS).

A self proclaimed "cowgirl poet and crazy goat lady," Mary Powell is one of the performers at this year's event. Previously the 2023 Humorous Division cowboy poet for the state of Kansas, Powell lives in the world of cowboy poetry.

"Cowboy poetry is poetry that rhymes. It breaks the rules of English grammar. It is all focused on the cowboy way of life: agriculture, patriotism, God, gun and country type stuff," Powell explained. "We share our beliefs and our way of life through our poetry and stories."

Powell went on to say, "If there is anybody out there who fancies themselves a cowboy poet who has a poem about the cowboy way of life that rhymes, we are more than happy to have you come along."

Arkansas City holds cowboy poetry event

Central Kansas Mental Health Center

Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) marks two years of the Co-Responder Program during National Co-Responder and Crisis Responder Week, September 14–20, 2025. 

This week honors the essential work of co-responders and crisis responders in Salina, who provide immediate support to individuals experiencing a behavioral health crisis while strengthening the community’s overall safety and wellbeing.&nbsp;

Mental health and substance use challenges can lead to homelessness, incarceration, and emergency room visits, which are more intrusive and costly for communities than earlier interventions and connections to behavioral health services. National data show that one in four people with a mental illness have been arrested, and individuals with serious mental illness are significantly more likely to experience law enforcement encounters that escalate or involve the use of force. These realities highlight the urgent need for compassionate intervention and stronger connections to care.&nbsp;

To address this need, Central Kansas Mental Health Center, the Salina Police Department, Saline County Sheriff’s Office, and Saline Fire Department launched the Co-Responder Program in September 2023, supported in part by American Rescue Plan Act funding through Saline County. This partnership places behavioral health professionals alongside law enforcement officers, ensuring that people in crisis receive immediate support, compassionate care, and connection to longer-term services.&nbsp;

“The Co-Responders have supported individuals with a wide range of needs, not just mental health. People have received help with VA assistance, shelter, food, and clothing,” shared Officer Chris Venables of the Salina Police Department. “I have seen them spend countless hours assisting people. Without their efforts and compassion, many would fall through the cracks and never get the help they need. They also help law enforcement officers and EMS personnel find solutions that, in the past, might have only resulted in jail or a hospital visit.”&nbsp;

In just two years, the program has impacted over 1000 individuals, expanded with the addition of a second co-responder in 2024, and has played a vital role in training first responders. The co-responder team helps lead Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trainings, which equip officers with de-escalation skills and practical knowledge about mental health. These efforts reduce the need for force and increase the likelihood that individuals in crisis are referred to appropriate care rather than entering the criminal justice system.&nbsp;

Undersheriff Brent Melander of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the program’s impact: “The CKMHC Co-Responder program has been invaluable in assisting deputies during mental health crises and ensuring follow-up with families. Co-Responders often meet with family members after an incident to provide guidance on next steps, answer difficult questions, and connect them with resources. Their partnership helps law enforcement support individuals and families in ways we could not do alone.”&nbsp;

In recognition of National Co-responder and Crisis Responder Week, CKMHC extends gratitude to all crisis responders in our community—including co-responders, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and crisis line staff—whose service makes a lasting difference for individuals and families across Salina.

If someone is experiencing a behavioral health crisis that poses an immediate risk to safety, call 911. Community members can inform dispatch that the situation may involve a mental health concern and request a CIT-trained officer or co-responder to respond. For ongoing support or non-emergency behavioral health needs, individuals may also contact CKMHC directly at (785) 823-6322 or the 988 Suicide &amp; Crisis Lifeline.

CKMHC recognizes Co-responder and crisis responder week

ABILENE - The Memorial Health System (MHS) Volunteer Corps has once again been recognized with the Gold Award of Excellence from the Hospital Auxiliaries of Kansas – marking their 31st consecutive year receiving this distinguished honor.&nbsp;

To qualify for the award, volunteer groups must meet 15 requirements each year. The MHS Volunteer Corps fulfilled these by engaging in a variety of impactful activities, including:&nbsp;

· Hosting fundraisers such as the Purse-A-Palooza Silent Auction, Scrub Hub,&nbsp;

SUNdae FUNdraiser, and the popular Collective Goods lobby sale&nbsp;

· Supporting health career scholarships&nbsp;

· Promoting National Volunteer Week&nbsp;

Jenny Stuck, MHS Volunteer Services Manager, commended the Corps for their achievement.&nbsp;

“We have the most amazing volunteers!” Stuck said. “Meeting the Gold Award requirements every year shows the level of commitment our volunteers have to Memorial Health System and our community, which is truly remarkable. Each and every volunteer plays a role in the success and strength of the Volunteer Corps.”&nbsp;

For more information on becoming a volunteer at Memorial Hospital, please contact Jenny Stuck, MHS Volunteer Services Manager, at 785-263-6692.

Memorial Health System Volunteer Corps receives 31st Gold Award of Excellence

The Friends of the River Foundation is excited to announce the annual "Fall Fix-Up 2025," set for Saturday, October 4th, from 8:00 am to noon.

This cherished community event brings Salina residents together to improve and beautify key areas of our city through hands-on volunteer projects.

Volunteers of all ages are invited to take part in activities at multiple locations around Salina. Tools and snacks will be provided. 

Participants are encouraged to dress in clothes suitable for outdoor work and projects that may get messy. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Ashby House (143 S. 8th St.) – Campus clean-up, sheetrock hanging, painting, yard work, apartment prep, and storm window installation.

City of Salina – Storm Drain Project (336 S. Santa Fe Ave., The Temple parking lot) – Install medallions to raise awareness about trash in waterways.

CHDO (748 Duvall Ave.) – Repair and paint sheds, stain/paint porches and decks, and trim or remove overgrown trees, vines, and shrubs.

Friends of the River – Smoky Hill River (YMCA parking lot, park at Kenwood Cove) – Remove invasive plants and clean up trash along the river.

North Town District Mounted Patrol &amp; Rescue Squad (1020 W. North St.) – Trim shrubs, pull weeds, and clean landscaping.

5 Corners (N. 9th &amp; Broadway/Pacific intersection) – Trim shrubs and clean landscaping.

Little Library Storage – Waddle’s Heating &amp; Cooling (346 N. 9th St.) – Organize and box books by category.

Salina Downtown (Strand Plaza, 118 S. Santa Fe – parking in back) – Refresh planter pots, add mulch, tie ribbons on grasses, and sweep/clean benches and planters along Santa Fe.

Salina Food Bank (255 S. Chicago) – Garden clean-up, landscaping, weeding, shelf cleaning, and a Christmas project.

Salina Rescue Mission (1716 Summers Rd.) – Clean garden beds, refresh prayer garden, weatherproof wooden posts, assist with painting, and move supplies between floors.

The Temple (336 S. Santa Fe, north red door) – Cleaning and painting.

City of Salina – Free Landfill Day (4292 S. Burma Rd.) – Free disposal from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm (loads must be covered or secured).

The Friends of the River Foundation encourages all community members to join in this meaningful day of service. Fall Fix-Up is a great way to meet neighbors, give back, and take pride in keeping Salina a beautiful place to live. 

Sign-up to volunteer at For more information, please contact Jane at janea@smokyhillriver.org or (785) 493-8491.

Friends of the River invites community for annual "Fall Fix-Up"

From Kansas soil to Kosovo's frontlines, retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 Hector A. Vasquez has devoted more than four decades to serving the Kansas Army National Guard. 

On September 6, Kansas State University formally recognized Vasquez's distinguished military career by presenting him with the 2025 Kansas State University Medal for Military Excellence.

Vasquez was presented with the commemorative medal by President Richard Linton during a first-quarter public ceremony at the K-State vs. Army football game, recognizing his exemplary military service and commitment to living out the university's mission of service to Kansas. Vasquez was also recognized during a private ceremony on July 21, where he received a certificate from Executive Vice President for External Engagement and Chief of Staff Marshall Stewart in front of family and friends.

Raised in&nbsp;Topeka, Vasquez has been a Wildcat fan since his teenage years. He began his college studies at K-State in fall 1977 but paused his education after just one semester to enlist in the Kansas Army National Guard, later returning to earn his bachelor's degree in social sciences in 2010.

Before his first uniformed military appointment, Vasquez served as a civilian technician, holding nine different positions in the Combined Support Maintenance Shop in Topeka. During his military service, Vaquez held nine military assignments, served three deployments — Bosnia 1996, Iraq 2004-2005 and Kosovo 2007-2008 — completed 28 military education courses and received a total of 34 awards, decorations and badges.

Vasquez's dedication extends far beyond his military service to every aspect of his life, including his love for K-State. A strong supporter of K-State Athletics, Vasquez and his family have contributed to the Ahearn Fund since 2018 and hold football season tickets and regularly attend men's basketball, women's basketball and baseball games.&nbsp;

"My dad really embodies what it means to be a K-Stater and is the best representation of our K-State family," said Whitney Vasquez, his daughter. "He has received many distinguished honors in his military career, but nothing means more to him than being recognized by his K-State family as a veteran, patriot, family man and die-hard Wildcat fan."

The Kansas State University for Military Excellence, coordinated by the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/">Office of External Engagement</a>, is the most prestigious military-related award that K-State grants. The award honors those who have showcased exemplary leadership, vision and service to the country while remaining committed to Kansas State University and its land-grant mission.

Decorated Kansas Army National Guard veteran honored with K-State's most prestigious military-related award

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Driving While Suspended

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance; Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE: Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, September 13

Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;will showcase an extraordinary musical collaboration featuring banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck, harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer Antonio Sánchez on Sunday, September 28, in an evening of cross-genre artistry.

The ensemble is led by 19-time Grammy Award winner Fleck, whose groundbreaking career spans from his beginning work with Béla Fleck and the Flecktones to collaborations with jazz legend Chick Corea and a bold reinterpretation of Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue." 

For decades, Fleck has redefined the banjo's boundaries, breaking past traditional bluegrass scores and into the genres of jazz, classical, world music and more.

Joining him is Colombian-born jazz harpist Castañeda, celebrated for fusing Latin rhythms and modern jazz expression with classical performance. Known for leading acclaimed ensembles and collaborating with renowned artists including Hiromi, Paquito D'Rivera and Grégoire Maret, Castañeda brings the spirit of his native country to global stages.

Completing the trio is five-time Grammy Award-winning drummer Sánchez, best known for his innovative work with the group Bad Hombre and his Golden Globe-nominated percussion score for the acclaimed 2014 film "Birdman." 

The Mexico City native has performed alongside guitar master Pat Metheny and jazz legends including Chick Corea, Gary Burton, Charlie Haden and Michael Brecker.

Together, the trio will perform original compositions — including selections from their collaborative album "BEATrio" — blending rhythm, melody and fun into an unforgettable performance.

For discount details, contact the ticket office. Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mccain@k-state.edu">mccain@k-state.edu</a>.

Béla Fleck trio to bring genre-blending performance to McCain Auditorium

Kansas Trails Inc. has announced the launch of the first-ever Ride for Resilience (R4R), a 30-day, 700-mile cycling journey across Kansas trails to raise awareness and funds for both GO2 for Lung Cancer and Kansas Trails Inc.

From September 15 to October 15, Mike Scanlon, Executive Director of Kansas Trails Inc., will ride across 60 trails and 50 Kansas towns, sharing stories of survival, community, and resilience.

Along the way, he hopes to meet cancer survivors, fighters and trail enthusiasts who will join him in celebrating the power of trails and the strength of the human spirit.

“Trails are more than paths through the prairie; they are lifelines for small towns, strengthening connections and boosting local economies,” said Scanlon. “This ride is about resilience—in lung cancer treatments that extend lives and research that opens new possibilities, in the riders who bike our trails, and in the rural communities those trails connect.”

Scanlon, who was diagnosed in March 2024 with Stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), credits a rare biomarker (EGFR Exon 19 deletion) and targeted therapy (Tagrisso by AstraZeneca) for keeping him among the small fraction of NSCLC patients currently with No Evidence of Disease (NED). While his own battle continues, he is determined to use his journey to inspire others and to bring awareness to the need for wider biomarker testing and cancer research.

The fundraising goal for Ride 4 Resilience is $75,000, shared equally between GO2 for Lung Cancer and Kansas Trails Inc. Two anonymous donors have pledged to match every dollar up to $20,000, doubling the impact of contributions.

Daily highlights will be shared on social media throughout the ride, with opportunities for local communities to participate as the tour passes through their towns.

“This is more than a ride,” Scanlon added. “It’s about leaving our communities not less, but better and more beautiful than we found them. If I can help one person with lung cancer or brighten one Kansas town, it will be the greatest gift I can offer.”

Donate: <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/ride-for-resilience-r4r-help-us-make-a-difference">https://www.gofundme.com/f/ride-for-resilience-r4r-help-us-make-a-difference</a>

Follow the journey: Facebook: @kstrails | Instagram: @kstrails | LinkedIn: kansas-trails-inc/

Kansas man to ride 60 trails around the state to raise funds for lung cancer

MCPHERSON - The Evaline Hess Healthcare Careers Education Scholarship Committee is proud to announce that 19 scholarships have been awarded to students pursuing careers in healthcare.

Each year, the committee reviews applications from both new candidates and returning awardees, with eligibility for up to four years of support. The program is made possible through the collaboration of the Scholarship Committee and McPherson Hospital, honoring the legacy of George and Evaline Hess, whose generosity has had a lasting impact on healthcare education in McPherson.

Established in 1980, the Evaline Hess Healthcare Careers Education Scholarship has helped generations of students by providing financial assistance for health-related education. Scholarships are awarded in three categories: initial entry into healthcare, career advancement, and updates in technical training. Through these awards, the committee aims to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The charitable Evaline Hess Healthcare Careers Education Fund is administered by the McPherson County Community Foundation and continues to welcome additional gifts in support of its mission.

Students interested in applying for the 2026 scholarships should contact Tara Williams at McPherson Hospital in late January 2026 at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:taras@mcphersonhospital.org">taras@mcphersonhospital.org</a>.

Evaline Hess Healthcare Careers Education Scholarship awards 19 scholarships to local students

Schools across Kansas have an exciting opportunity to unite around the shared goal of student health through the Healthy Habits for Life grant program available now at <a href="http://bcbsks.com/hhfl">bcbsks.com/hhfl</a>.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation is offering up to $200,000 in grants to assist schools in implementing programs that promote healthy lifestyle choices to their K-12 students. These school-based programs must address at least one of four criteria: reduce cardiovascular risk, increase physical activity, learn healthy eating habits, and reinforce positive mental health among students.

Since its creation in 2005, the Healthy Habits for Life grant program has awarded more than $2 million through more than 2,000 grants. School personnel have used past grant dollars to educate students on healthy portion sizes, begin a daily walking program for students before or after school, invest in equipment for physical education classes and much more.

“Healthy Habits for Life grants give schools the tools they need to help kids be active, eat well and take care of their minds. These grants are more than money – they’re an investment in our future,” said Marlou Wegener, Chief Operating Officer of the BCBSKS Foundation. “By helping students build healthy habits now, we’re preparing strong, confident leaders who can make Kansas a healthier place for everyone.”

Healthy Habits for Life grants are available in the service area of the BCBSKS Foundation, which includes all Kansas counties except Johnson and Wyandotte. The maximum grant amount is $2,000 and grants are limited to one per school but&nbsp;multiple schools within a district can apply.

Applications must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, October 10, with the funds distributed in mid-December. Grant recipients may use the funds for programs offered during the 2026 calendar year.

School nurses, physical education, health and family and consumer science teachers, athletic directors, principals and other school administrators are encouraged to visit <a href="http://bcbsks.com/hhfl">bcbsks.com/hhfl</a> for a program overview, application and tip sheet.

Kansas schools invited to apply for grants to champion student health and wellness

Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery

LINDSBORG - Pianists Slawomir Dobrzanski and Alfonso Hernandez will be performing selections by Mozart, Schubert, Ravel, and more at the Sandzén Gallery&nbsp;(401 N. 1st St.) on Sunday, September 21&nbsp;at 2:00 pm.&nbsp;

Praised by the Buenos Aires Herald as “one of the best Polish pianists,” Slawomir Dobrzanski currently serves as Professor of Piano at the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance at Kansas State University. Originally from Poland, he is a graduate of the Chopin University of Music in Warsaw and the University of Connecticut. Dobrzanski has released several world-premiere recordings of piano music and is the author of the first biography of Polish composer Maria Szymanowska in the English language.&nbsp;

Alfonso Hernandez is a passionate musician and arts advocate, praised by Prensa Libre as “one of the best Guatemalan pianists today, thanks to his energy, precision, and delicacy.” He earned a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Maryland and an MBA in Arts Innovation from the Global Leaders Institute in Washington, D.C. Hernandez also earned degrees from the University of Houston, Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, and Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. He has participated in many renowned music festivals, including Chautauqua in New York, Aspen in Colorado, and Zeister Muziekdagen in the Netherlands.&nbsp;

The Sandzén Gallery is located at 401 North First Street in Lindsborg. There is no charge for the concert, however, donations are appreciated. 

For further information, please call the Gallery at (785) 227-2220 or email: sandzengallery@gmail.com.

Sandzén Gallery hosts piano duet recital with Slawomir Dobrzanski & Alfonso Hernandez

<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, September 12 - September 14

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 10 - September 12

The US National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for Saline County, that has officially taken into effect now and will remain until Wednesday of this week.

According to Saline County Emergency Management, water levels for rivers and creeks have continued to rise from Monday's heavy rainfall. It was estimated between 4 to 10 inches of rain have already fallen across the county, leading to&nbsp;flooded roadways in Brookville&nbsp;and&nbsp;many rural routes that are waterlogged or impassable.

Additional rainfall is expected to occur late tonight (Monday, September 8) into Tuesday morning.&nbsp;Scattered showers and storms are possible, mainly east of Saline County.

Moreover, additional showers and storms are expected to develop from the west on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, bringing extra heavy rainfall.

Then late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, another round of storms are possible.

Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, allow extra time for commutes and use alternate routes where needed.

Expected to crest at 26.5 feet late tonight into Tuesday afternoon (Moderate Flood Stage). At this level, widespread agricultural flooding is expected. If high flow continues on the Saline River, water could back up on Mulberry Creek, flooding properties including the KOA campground.

Expected to crest at 26.6 feet late Wednesday morning or early afternoon (Minor Flood Stage).

UPDATE: Flood warning issued through Wednesday in Saline County

Storms from this morning throughout Central KS are expected to now continue past noon.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) the scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout Central KS are expected to now continue past noon on Monday.

The National Weather Service also expects a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms to occur tonight in Salina.

Please be aware of the roads as localized flooding is possible.

UPDATE: Central KS storms continue past noon

W. Old 40 Highway between S. Reese and S. Wyman roads in Saline County, are reportedly closed due to flooding.

According to the Saline County Sheriff's Office, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has placed road-closed barricades on W. Old 40 Highway between S. Reese and S. Wyman due to flooding.

The Sheriff's Office will update Salina Post once the highway reopens.

Flooding causes Saline County highway to close

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 8 - September 10

Cold temperatures are expected during the evening hours this weekend, with lows in the 40s.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), after a cold front passed through Central Kansas on early Friday morning, evening lows for tonight and Saturday evening are expected to be from 48-56 degrees.

Temperatures tonight and Saturday evening drop 20-25 degrees below normal, with highs in the 60s for Friday.

Temperatures dropping to the 40s during the evening hours this weekend

Three day weather forecast Salina, September 5 - September 7

Possibilities of scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected to occur throughout Central Kansas this evening.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), these storms will gradually increase from the west later tonight and persist through early to mid-evening on Friday. Pockets of heavy rainfall are likely, with a few isolated storms capable of dime to nickel size hail.

Salina has a 68% chance of showers and thunderstorms for tonight.

Another round of thunderstorms anticipated throughout Central Kansas tonight

A round of severe storms are expected to occur later this evening on Wednesday, September 3 in Salina.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), widely scattered storms are anticipated to occur in Salina from the hours of 4:00 - 7:00 pm. These storms reportedly are expected to develop in Central Kansas, move south and east throughout the evening and nighttime hours.

Accordingly, +2 inch sized hail and 60-70 mph wind gusts are possible.&nbsp;

The US National Weather Service advises you to a plan ahead if you have outdoor activities late this afternoon or early this evening of Wednesday.

Severe storms expected Wednesday evening in Salina

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/josh-boak">JOSH BOAK</a>

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. (AP) — President Donald Trump said Saturday he believes the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia-Ukraine war</a>&nbsp;would end if all NATO countries stopped buying oil from Russia and placed tariffs on China of 50% to 100% for its purchases of Russian petroleum.

Trump posted on his social media site that NATO’S commitment to winning the war “has been far less than 100%" and the purchase of Russian oil by some members of the alliance is “shocking.” As if speaking with NATO members, he said: “It greatly weakens your negotiating position, and bargaining power, over Russia.”

Since 2023, NATO member Turkey has been the third largest buyer of Russian oil, after China and India. according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-russia-oil-china-turkey-f377653aebf6d5a34a09a7466d85fd56">Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air</a>. Other members of the 32-state alliance involved in purchasing Russian oil include Hungary and Slovakia. It’s unclear whether Trump would want to directly confront Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan or Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. That leaves uncertain whether the threats might actually lead to new tariffs or a ban on Russian oil purchases.

Trump’s post arrives after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-poland-drones-sanctions-rafale-429ff46431a916feff629f26a5d0c0da">the Wednesday flight</a>&nbsp;of multiple Russian drones into Poland, an escalatory move by Russia as it was entering the airspace of a NATO ally. Poland shot down the drones, yet Trump played down the severity of the incursion and Russia’s motives by saying it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nato-russia-poland-drones-air-defense-dc1a039d30388f2ebcc3b78a5dda365b">“could have been a mistake.”</a>

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Saturday that the drone incursion was “unacceptable and unfortunate and dangerous” as he judged NATO’s response so far to be appropriate. Still, Rubio said it was unclear if the drones were intentionally sent to Poland.

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“The question is whether the drones were targeted to go into Poland specifically,” Rubio said. “If that’s the case, that the evidence leads us there, then obviously that would be a highly escalatory move.”

While Trump as a candidate promised to end the war quickly, he has yet to hit the pressure points needed to end the violence and has at times been seen as reluctant to confront Russian President Vladimir Putin. Congress is currently trying to get the U.S. president to back a bill toughening sanctions, after Trump last month hosted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-ukraine-war-takeaways-b9ff04c4143c6ac228e196ddaf6dd6d3">Putin in Alaska</a>&nbsp;for talks that failed to deliver on progress toward peace.

The U.S. and its allies are seeking to show a firmer degree of resolve against Russia. At an emergency U.N. Security Council meeting Friday, acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea said America “will defend every inch of NATO territory” and that the drones entering Poland “intentionally or otherwise show immense disrespect for good-faith U.S. efforts to bring an end to this conflict.”

Britain on Friday also took steps to penalize the trading of Russian oil, including a ban on 70 vessels allegedly used in its transportation. The United Kingdom also sanctioned 30 individuals and companies, included businesses based in China and Turkey, that have supplied Russia with electronics, chemicals, explosives and other weapons components.

Trump in his post Saturday said a NATO ban on Russian oil plus tariffs on China would “also be of great help in ENDING this deadly, but RIDICULOUS, WAR.”

The president said that NATO members should put the 50% to 100% tariffs on China and withdraw them if the war that launched with Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine ends.

“China has a strong control, and even grip, over Russia,” he posted, and powerful tariffs “will break that grip.”

The U.S. president has already imposed a 25% import tax on goods from India, specifically for its buying of Russian energy products. He has placed in total a 50% tariff on India, though Trump has indicated that negotiations with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi could help settle differences.

The prospect of further import tax hikes on China and its retaliation could carry collateral damage for the U.S. and European economies.

Earlier this year, Trump hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariff-economy-recession-china-imports-trade-8d90bb37735e833c43a7b7a9d5a0b9a2">Chinese goods with new tariffs totaling 145%</a>, prompting China to respond with 125% import taxes on American goods. Taxes at that level were essentially a blockade on commerce between the world’s two largest economies, causing worries about global growth that led to negotiations that ratcheted down the tariffs being levied by both nations.

So that trade talks could proceed, America lowered its tariffs against China to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trade-tariffs-china-deadline-ad2c003e9a709a1dfdfc9a9fd3798baf">still-high 30%</a>, while China took its rate to 10%.

In his post, the Republican president said responsibility for the war fell on his predecessor, Democrat Joe Biden, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He did not include in that list Putin, who launched the invasion.

Trump’s post builds on a call Friday with finance ministers in the Group of Seven, a forum of industrialized democracies. During the call, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on their counterparts to have a “unified front” to cut off “the revenues funding Putin’s war machine,” according to Greer’s office.

Read Trump's letter to NATO nations on ‘major sanctions’ for Russia 

KANSAS CITY —Nine people were injured in an accident just before 4p.m. Friday in Kansas City, Missouri.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a white SUV was eastbound on Linwood Boulevard above the speed limit, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMaratino. The SUV ran the red traffic light and collided with a school bus.. 

The driver of the school bus and seven children were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the white SUV was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The accident remains under investigation

KCPD: SUV driver in school bus crash was traveling above speed limit

KANSAS CITY– A member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club pleaded guilty this week before U.S. District Judge Greg Kays for his involvement in an assault against a member of a rival motorcycle club, according to the United State's Attorney.

Mark A. Crump, also known as “Navajo,” 55, of Lee’s Summit, Mo., pleaded guilty today to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in aid of racketeering.

On July 20, 2023, Crump, Jarrid A. Hammer, and another member of the Pagan’s assaulted a lone rival motorcycle gang member at a bar &amp; grill in North Kansas City, Mo.&nbsp; Hammer told the victim that they were there to shut the victim’s club down, then flipped a table over knocking the victim to the ground.&nbsp; Once on the ground, Hammer, Crump and the other Pagan’s member began stomping, kicking and punching the victim.&nbsp; The victim later told law enforcement that those who assaulted him were wearing steel-toed boots.&nbsp; Crump, Hammer and the other Pagan’s member fled the bar &amp; grill before any law enforcement arrived.&nbsp; The victim was later transported by ambulance to a local hospital, suffering from a head contusion (bruise on the brain), rib fracture, hemothorax (accumulation of blood in the area between the chest wall and lungs), a left pulmonary contusion (bruising of the lung), pneumothorax (collapsed lung) and a traumatic brain injury.

Hammer pleaded guilty to the assault on June 18, 2025, and is awaiting sentencing.

Under federal statutes, Crump is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the FBI, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Blue Springs, Mo., Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.

Member of KC area motorcycle club enters plea for attack on rival club member

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Wichita police arrested 27-year-old Jordan Lee Jones following a shooting Sunday night that left a 25-year-old family member injured.

Just before 10p.m. Sept. 7, officers responded to a shooting in the 1200 block of N. Grove in Wichita, according to a media release. They found a 25-year-old man in a vehicle in a driveway with a gunshot wound to the midsection. The victim, who is related to the suspect, was taken to a local hospital in critical but stable condition.

Investigators learned that&nbsp;a domestic disturbance between the two family members escalated into a physical fight outside the home, leading to the shooting.&nbsp;

Community tips helped officers track Jones to residence in the 1600 block of S. Edgemoor in Wichita. He was taken into custody without incident and booked into jail facing charges of aggravated battery and criminal use of weapons. He remains jailed on bonds just over $100,000, according to online jail records.

Chief Joe Sullivan said the incident underscores the importance of community cooperation:

“The arrest is a clear example of how quickly we can bring a dangerous situation to a close when our community and officers work together. We are grateful for the tips that helped us locate the suspect and keep Wichita safe.”

Police: Kansas man shot family member during fight

By MELISSA GOLDIN &nbsp;Associated Press

A flood of false and misleading claims filled social media in the two days it took officials to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooter-search-utah-governor-21ba12bbf01579fd2fbcdbe1da03dae5">arrest and publicly identify</a>&nbsp;22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the suspect in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Wednesday's assassination</a>&nbsp;of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

The reaction followed a well-worn pattern of misinformation and conspiracy theories that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/subway-burning-misinformation-amelia-carter-c566897a3abc073c0a587188e17a7688">often come after</a>&nbsp;breaking news events when facts can be fluid. Those kinds of posts appeared within hours of the shooting, with some of the earliest incorrectly identifying the gunman before officials had released any information about a suspect. More claims spawned on Thursday and Friday, presenting old videos and photos as recent footage of the shooter and erroneously reporting on Robinson's background.

CLAIM: Robinson is a registered Republican.

THE FACTS: This is false.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/charlie-kirk-shooting-news#00000199-3e68-d49f-a99f-3fef75fe0000">Utah records</a>&nbsp;say Robinson was registered as a voter, but not affiliated with either political party. His voter status is inactive, meaning&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title20A/Chapter2/20A-2-S505.html?v=C20A-2-S505_2025050720250507">he did not vote</a>&nbsp;in two regular general elections after receiving a notice from his county clerk. According to Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, Robinson's family said he had become “more political in recent years” and had criticized Kirk, mentioning that he was due to appear at an event in Utah and saying “Kirk was full of hate and spreading hate.” Cox stated that ammunition found at the scene was engraved with taunting, anti-fascist and meme culture messaging.

CLAIM: Robinson is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America.

THE FACTS: This is false. Priscilla Yeverino, spokesperson for the group, confirmed that “we have no members in DSA named Tyler Robinson anywhere in the country.” A photo of a person who bears a resemblance to Robinson wearing a Salt Lake City DSA shirt with the slogan “bee the change” has been used to support this claim. Yeverino declined to confirm that person's identity “for this person's privacy and safety.” Prior to Robinson’s arrest, many on social media were quick to assume the shooter was a Democrat and prominent conservative figures, including President Donald Trump, blamed liberal politics for Kirk’s death.

CLAIM: A video of a man running toward a parking lot shows the shooter escaping.

THE FACTS: This is false.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BurVXG-9aCs">The video</a>&nbsp;was filmed on July 28, more than a month before Kirk was shot and began spreading before Robinson was arrested. It shows Dakota Hawver, the suspected gunman who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/reno-nevada-grand-sierra-resort-shooting-e8892d51ec4dd2d61b507012773a8c4d">killed three people</a>&nbsp;and injured three others at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, running from the front of the resort in the direction of its front parking lot. Multiple&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kolotv.com/2025/07/29/newly-released-video-shows-gsr-gunman-moments-after-shooting/">local news networks</a>&nbsp;published the footage after the Reno shooting. Hawver was shot by police and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/reno-nevada-casino-shooting-d5f6cf374a331373b27c3496405dffa3">died in the hospital</a>&nbsp;days later. A version of the misrepresented video included a caption falsely stating: “video shows Charlie Kirk's real shooter escaping.”

CLAIM: Democrats opposed a moment of prayer for Kirk in the House.

THE FACTS: This is misleading. On Wednesday, the House observed a “moment of prayer for Charlie Kirk and his family” at the request of Speaker Mike Johnson. A subsequent request for a “moment of prayer out loud” elicited vocal objections and chaos on the House floor.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/us-house-of-representatives/house-observes-moment-of-silence-for-charlie-kirk/665499">Footage shows</a>&nbsp;members standing silently for about 30 seconds. Johnson then bangs his gavel and Rep. Lauren Boebert says that “silent prayers get silent results” before requesting that someone lead a spoken prayer as well. An audible “no” can be heard in response, among other protests. Shouting continues for about a minute, requiring Johnson to bang his gavel and state, “the House will be in order” several times. In the commotion, Johnson also says: “We will join for prayer right after this, OK?” Many posts claiming that Democrats had opposed a moment of prayer for Kirk shared clips that omitted Johnson's initial request and the ensuing silence.

CLAIM: The shooter was identified as Michael Mallinson or George Zinn.

THE FACTS: This is false. Robinson was named as the suspected shooter on Friday. Others, including Mallinson and Zinn, were misidentified as the shooter as authorities searched for a suspect. Mallinson is a 77-year-old Toronto resident who&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-retiree-falsely-accused-of-charlie-kirk-shooting-1.7631799">told the CBC</a>&nbsp;that he found out he had been wrongly accused after waking up from a nap and receiving a panicked call from his daughter telling him to delete his social media accounts. He said that before the shooting he had “never heard of Charlie Kirk.” Mallinson bears a resemblance to a man named George Zinn, who was filmed being dragged away handcuffed by two officers. The video spread widely on social media after the shooting. The Utah Public Safety Department&nbsp;<a href="https://mailchi.mp/utah/for-immediate-release-updates-on-charlie-kirk-shooting-at-uvu?e=98970b8875">said in a statement</a>&nbsp;that it “initially took in George Zinn as a suspect,” but that he was later released and charged with obstruction. The statement said Zinn, as well as a second person who was taken into custody and released after interrogation, has “no current ties to the shooting.”

Assassination of Charlie Kirk prompts flood of false and misleading claims online

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration announced sweeping reforms to rein in misleading direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertisements.

The FDA is sending thousands of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/188616/download?attachment">letters</a>&nbsp;warning pharmaceutical companies to remove misleading ads and issuing approximately 100 cease-and-desist letters to companies with deceptive ads.&nbsp;In addition to enforcing existing law, the FDA is initiating rulemaking to close the “adequate provision” loophole created in 1997, which drug companies have used to conceal critical safety risks in broadcast and digital ads, fueling inappropriate drug use and eroding public trust.&nbsp;“Pharmaceutical ads hooked this country on prescription drugs,”&nbsp;

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said.&nbsp;“We will shut down that pipeline of deception and require drug companies to disclose all critical safety facts in their advertising. Only radical transparency will break the cycle of overmedicalization that drives America’s chronic disease epidemic.”The FDA is concerned patients are not seeing a fair balance of information about drug products. This concern is magnified when serious risks are not clearly presented, or the information is too difficult for seniors to read or hear.&nbsp;

“For far too long, the FDA has permitted misleading drug advertisements, distorting the doctor-patient relationship and creating increased demand for medications regardless of clinical appropriateness,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H.&nbsp;“Drug companies spend up to 25% of their budget on advertising. Those billions of dollars would be better spent on lowering drug prices for everyday Americans.”

Americans also live in a new era of social media. An increasing reliance on digital and social media channels, including undisclosed paid influencer promotion, has blurred the lines among editorial content, user-generated media and pharmaceutical advertising, making it increasingly difficult for patients to distinguish between evidence-based information and promotional material.&nbsp;

A 2024 review in the Journal of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research reveals that while 100% of pharmaceutical social media posts highlight drug benefits, only 33% mention potential harms. Moreover, 88% of advertisements for top-selling drugs are posted by individuals and organizations that fail to adhere to the FDA fair balance guidelines.

The stakes surrounding prescription drug ads are high. While these ads can raise awareness of disease states and beneficial therapies, they must also disclose important risks and limitations. Current law requires that advertisements present a fair balance between a product’s risks and benefits; avoid exaggerating benefits; not create a misleading overall impression; properly disclose financial relationships; and include information regarding major side effects and contraindications.&nbsp;

Despite widespread violations, the FDA has been increasingly lax and reactive in its enforcement approach over the last few decades. The FDA used to send more than a hundred warning letters each year, and misleading ads were rare. But over time, enforcement waned and the number of warning letters sent to pharmaceutical companies dropped to one in 2023 and zero in 2024.

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