Adventures In Pet Sitting in Salina

Five professional pet-sitting business owners have been named top finalists for Pet Sitters International’s 2026 Pet Sitter of the Year™ Award, the industry’s highest honor. Among those recognized globally and advancing in the judging process is MiKayla Anders, CPPS, owner of Adventures In Pet Sitting in Salina.

Pet Sitters International, the world’s leading educational association for professional pet-sitting and dog-walking businesses, selects finalists who demonstrate excellence in professional pet care, business operations, and community involvement.

The five finalists submit additional documentation regarding their business practices, community involvement, pet-care training, marketing efforts and proof of clear criminal history as they move on to the next phase of the judging process.&nbsp;

“The 2026 Pet Sitter of the Year will represent the professionalism, pet-care expertise and commitment to excellence that continue to elevate the pet-sitting industry worldwide,” said PSI President Beth Stultz-Hairston. “These topfinalists not only excel in pet care and business operations, but they also model the ethical, compassionate practices that set professional pet-care businesses apart. Selecting only one winner for this honor will not be an easy task,” she added.

Since 1995, PSI has selected one professional pet-sitting business owner annually to be named Pet Sitter of the Year. Nominees are evaluated on stringent criteria including client and professional references, commitment to quality pet care and professionalism, contributions to the local community and industry-at-large, and commitment to continuing education.

It’s a true honor to be recognized globally for my years of professional pet sitting throughout Saline County and the surrounding areas,” said Anders. “I’m truly blessed to have such a caring staff, loving family, and loyal clients who have supported me through all of my pet-sitting adventures. I’m grateful for the education and resources that Pet Sitters International provides—tools that set professionals apart in this industry.

Anders founded Adventures In Pet Sitting seven years ago after earning her bachelor’s degree in biology from Kansas Wesleyan University. She is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS) and Pet CPR &amp; First Aid Safety Certified through PSI. Her team provides in-home pet care for dogs, cats, farm animals such as horses, goats, and chickens, as well as small and exotic pets including lizards, frogs, guinea pigs, and birds.

The 2026 Pet Sitter of the Year will be announced in January 2026. For more information about Adventures In Pet Sitting provides visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.petsittingadventures.com/">www.petsittingadventures.com</a>

For more information about PSI or this award, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.petsit.com/">PSI’s website</a>.

Salina pet sitting business recognized globally as finalists for award

Salina Public Library is excited to announce that the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/962ef412-382c-4096-a448-3a865819b89e">Youth Services remodel is nearly underway</a>.

This project will re-imagine the Youth Services space on the lower level to create a destination for youth and families to read, play, create, learn and grow.

To accommodate this work, several temporary changes will be in effect over the coming months.

The library will be&nbsp;closed on Monday, November 17, to allow for the transition of materials to the main floor. Normal hours will resume the following day.&nbsp;

Library staff are available to help you find materials. Holds can be placed through the&nbsp;online catalog&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://discover.salinapubliclibrary.org/">discover.salinapubliclibrary.org</a>. You will be notified when your holds are ready to be picked up.&nbsp;

For ongoing updates, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/remodel-updates">salinapubliclibrary.org/remodel-updates</a>.&nbsp;

Salina Public Library is in the final stretch of fundraising for this exciting transformation, with just under&nbsp;$220,000&nbsp;still needed to complete the space.

There are several opportunities to give before the end of the year that will&nbsp;double your donation&nbsp;and help bring the vision for the new Youth Services area to life. 

To learn more about the project and how to contribute, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library">salinapubliclibrary.org/re-imagining-our-library</a>.

Youth Services remodel nearly underway at Salina Public Library, needing a little under $220,000 to complete project

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="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

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

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

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

Four day weather forecast Salina, November 10 - November 12

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.

NAME:&nbsp;Eilrich, Jessica Coraleann

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs Unknown severity; Interf w/LEO; obstr/resist/oppose misd warrant; Transporting an open container

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Aggravated criminal sodomy; Unknown circumstance; Aggravated indecent liberties w child; Offender =&gt;18 fondle child &lt;14; Aggravated indecent solic of a child; Sex act with a child &lt;14; Rape; Offender is 18 or older and victim is &lt; 14 YOA

NAME:&nbsp;Howe, Destiny Yevette Jade

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Assault; Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Criminal Damage to Property; Value Unknown

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact

NAME:&nbsp;Rothrock, Alexander James

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct; Criminal Damage to&nbsp;Property; Misdemeanor; Theft of prop/services:Value less than $1,500

Saline County Jail Bookings, November 9

LINDSBORG - The spirit of light, kindness, and tradition will shine brightly in Lindsborg this holiday season as Katelyn Reeves has been selected to serve as the 2025 Saint Lucia. 

The annual Saint Lucia Festival will take place on Saturday, December 13th, continuing a beloved Swedish custom that brings the community together in celebration of hope and generosity.

Rooted in the legend of Saint Lucia — a young girl who brought food and light to those in need during a time of famine in Sweden — the festival is one of Lindsborg’s most cherished holiday traditions. Dressed in a white gown with a red sash and crowned with a halo of candles, Lucia symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and compassion over hardship.

This year’s festivities will include Swedish folk dancing performances by the Lindsborg Swedish Folk Dancers downtown at 10:15 am and again on the Bethany Lutheran Church lawn at 1:30 pm&nbsp;with the Lindsborg Folkdanslag. A Saint Lucia church service will follow at 3:00 pm&nbsp;inside Bethany Lutheran Church.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other holiday activities throughout downtown Lindsborg all day long.

Reeves, along with Star Boy Judah Cooper and fellow senior members of the Swedish Folk Dancers, will be serving refreshments downtown throughout the day. 

The organization will also host a Swedish Bake Sale from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm inside The Courtyard (125 N. Main St.), with all proceeds benefiting Grant’s Grace, an endowment fund established in memory of alumnus Grant Lysell-Alkire.

Lindsborg to celebrate annual & beloved Saint Lucia Festival Dec. 13

Eric Anthony Lorson (FishBones Photography) is a Salina-based photographer whose work blends more than 15 years of technical expertise with a constantly evolving artistic vision.

“Journey and Growth,” which features Lorson's photography, will open Wednesday, November 5 at The Gallery in Sams Hall of Fine Arts and run through Thursday, December 11.

Lorson’s portfolio spans live music, astrophotography, landscapes and portraiture.

“Collaboration sits at the heart of my process,” Lorson said. “Whether partnering with musicians, fellow artists or individuals seeking to capture their own story, I thrive in the exchange of perspectives that bring depth and energy to my work.”

Trained in graphic design and commercial arts, Lorson’s work reflects both precision and imagination, shaped by years of refining technical craft while deepening his ability to translate atmosphere, emotion and story into each frame.

A reception for Lorson will be 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm&nbsp;Friday, November 14.

The Gallery at KWU is free and open to the public.

Salina-based photographer set to open show at KWU 

Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau

ABILENE - Visitors often comment on the American flags waving along Buckeye Avenue and NW 3rd Street. The display helps showcase why Abilene is celebrated as a Best U.S. Small Town to Visit.

With 2026 marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Abilene is preparing to shine. 

America 250 offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate our nation’s story, and local leaders are working to create a welcoming and festive experience for the many visitors expected throughout the year.

As&nbsp;Traveling with Purpose&nbsp;shared, Merriam-Webster defines Americana as “materials concerning or characteristic of America, its civilization, or its culture; broadly: things typical of America.” They added that you could just as easily say, “See Abilene, Kansas.”

To prepare, the City of Abilene’s Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau seeks sponsors to support the community’s annual American flag program. Each year, flags are placed on poles from I-70 along Buckeye Avenue to the south city limits and from Buckeye west on NW 3rd Street. Flags fly proudly from April’s Eisenhower Marathon weekend through Veterans Day. Because they spend months outdoors, both flags and poles require regular replacement by the City’s Public Works team.

The goal is to purchase 200 new flags for the 2026 display.

While costs have increased, sponsorships will remain $25 to allow more community members to participate.

Each sponsorship helps offset the purchase and maintenance of the flags and ensures this treasured tradition continues into the nation’s semiquincentennial year.

“We want Abilene to be ready for America 250, and these flags are a welcoming sight for residents and guests alike,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. “We are grateful for the continued support of our community, as well as friends across Kansas and beyond who help keep this tradition strong.”

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations are invited to sponsor one or more flags for the 2026 season.

For more information or to participate, please contact the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau at (785) 263-2231 or visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.abilenekansas.org/flags">www.AbileneKansas.org/flags</a>&nbsp;to donate online

Abilene prepares for America 250 with flag sponsorship drive

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear person/family; 2nd or subs

NAME:&nbsp;Hammon, Elijah Christopher

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct

NAME:&nbsp;Hokett, Christopher Lee

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Indirect

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

*No image available for&nbsp;Klinkerman, Shealynn Jane*

NAME:&nbsp;Klinkerman, Shealynn Jane

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm; Crim damage to prop;w/o consent &lt;$1K

NAME:&nbsp;Mullins, David Williams

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner

NAME:&nbsp;Santana, Angel De Jesus

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Improper method of notice to turn; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circ; felony; License carried/exhibited; Possess of firearm while under the influence

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Probation Violation

Saline County Jail Bookings, November 8

Salina Area Technical College has been recognized by the Associated General Contractors of Kansas (AGC) as the Mid-East Kansas Region Post-Secondary School of the Year for 2025. In addition, Brett Hillegiest, Electrical Technology Instructor, was named the Mid-East Kansas Region Post-Secondary Instructor of the Year for 2025.

These awards, presented by AGC’s Build Up Kansas Workforce Development Program, celebrate excellence in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the leadership that helps build a strong pipeline of skilled workers for Kansas industries.

In its recognition letter, AGC praised Salina Tech and Mr. Hillegeist for their “leadership in delivering valuable NCCER construction trade instruction” and for helping students earn industry-recognized credentials that prepare them for employment as professionals in Kansas’ growing construction sector.

The honor also includes a $1,000 per award to support Salina Tech’s Electrical Technology program.

“We are extremely proud of this recognition,” said Jennifer Callis, Vice President of Student and Academic Affairs. “It’s a reflection of the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students who work every day to advance technical education and meet workforce needs across Kansas. We are excited to celebrate Brett on receiving such an honor for his commitment to his program.”

The Associated General Contractors of Kansas represents the state’s leading commercial contractors and works to strengthen the construction industry through education, advocacy, and workforce development.

For more information about Salina Tech’s Electrical Technology, Construction Technology or any other programs, visit <a href="http://www.salinatech.edu">www.salinatech.edu</a>.

Salina Tech and Electrical Technology instructor receive prestigious awards 

A Retired Kansas Court of Appeals judge and his wife have established a new scholarship through the Kansas Bar Foundation (KBF) that celebrates the Buser family’s three generations of lawyers. 

The scholarship is designed to encourage law students to be the first person in their family to enter the legal profession and inspire students with a disability to achieve the goal of becoming a lawyer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Honorable Michael B. Buser and his wife, Holly Buser, provided funding for the Buser Family Scholarship. Judge Buser attended law school at the University of Kansas. His father, George J. Buser, Jr., attended the University of Kansas City (now the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law or UMKC School of Law) and was a career banker/trust officer in Overland Park. Following in Judge Buser’s footsteps is his son, Andrew, who graduated from UMKC School of Law and is general counsel of The Lead Group, a digital media company.

“The scholarship commemorates three generations of the Buser family who have practiced law in Kansas. It also acknowledges the commitment of many other Kansas families who have served our legal profession,” stated Buser. “For example, my former colleague on the Court, Judge Patrick D. McAnany, was a third-generation lawyer and father to a fourth-generation lawyer, his son Chris.”&nbsp;

In 2024, the McAnany family established the Judge Patrick D. McAnany Scholarship with the KBF. Judge Buser doubts there will be a fourth-generation attorney in their family. 

When Holly asked their 8-year-old grandson if he was going to be an attorney he said, “I don’t want to be an attorney.” She then asked him if he wanted to be a judge and he replied, “Yeah, I want to be Aaron Judge!”

Kevin Mitchelson, KBF President, stated, “One of our strategic goals is to build the Foundation’s endowments and offer more scholarships. In addition to encouraging individuals to be the first person in their family to enter the legal profession, the Buser Family Scholarship provides an opportunity for law students with disabilities. We are grateful to Judge Buser and Mrs. Buser and proud to offer this scholarship. We look forward to sharing this opportunity with law students.”

According to Judge Buser, besides prioritizing first-generation law students, students with disabilities also will receive preference in being awarded the scholarship. 

“This aspect of the scholarship is in recognition of my wife Holly’s 40-year career as a pediatric physical therapist,” stated Buser. “Recently my wife was thrilled to learn that an infant with neurological issues that she had treated more than 20 years ago just received a scholarship to earn a doctorate in physical therapy. Similarly, we hope this new KBF scholarship will assist a student with a disability to achieve the goal of becoming a lawyer.”

Kansas Bar Association&nbsp;The 2026 KBF&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbar.org/?pg=scholarships">Scholarship program</a>&nbsp;will start accepting applications in December 2025.

The Buser Family Scholarship is one of twelve that will provide a total of about $40,000 to several outstanding students.

Retired Court of Appeals Judge & wife establish scholarship for first-gen law students and disabled pursuant in law career

Four day weather forecast Salina, November 7 - November 10

Three day weather forecast Salina, November 5 - November 7

Three day weather forecast Salina, November 3 - November 5

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 31 - November 2

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 29 - October 31

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 27 - October 29

Four day weather forecast Salina, October 24 - October 27

The US National Weather Service has announced events of showers and thunderstorms are expected to return this weekend in Salina and throughout Central Kansas.

Accordingly, showers and thunderstorms will overspread the area starting Thursday night, with the greatest coverage in southern Kansas. Temperatures will drop into the upper 40s and 50s throughout the area.

Forecast depicts that showers and thunderstorms are likely to occur throughout the span of this weekend, and into Monday, October 27.

Showers and thunderstorms expected to return to Salina this weekend

Three day weather forecast Salina, October 22 - October 24

&nbsp;WASHINGTON (AP)—Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said the latest in a series of strikes on boats accusing of ferrying drugs killed six people two vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean.

The dual strikes on Sunday bring the total number of known attacks to 19 and the death toll to at least 75 people since the Trump administration launched a campaign against drug trafficking in South American waters that many see as a pressure tactic on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

“These vessels were known by our intelligence to be associated with illicit narcotics smuggling, were carrying narcotics, and were transiting along a known narco-trafficking transit route,” Hegseth posted Monday on social media.

🎥US military kills 6 in new attacks on drug-running boats

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has pardoned his former personal lawyer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/rudy-giuliani">Rudy Giuliani</a>, his former chief of staff&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mark-meadows">Mark Meadows</a>&nbsp;and others accused of backing the Republican's efforts to overturn the 2020 election, a Justice Department official says.

Ed Martin, the government's pardon attorney, posted on social media a signed proclamation of the “full, complete, and unconditional" pardon, which also names conservative attorneys&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sidney-powell-plea-deal-georgia-election-indictment-ec7dc601ad78d756643aa2544028e9f5">Sidney Powell</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-fake-electors-charges-john-eastman-2020-1d6df9ac00b810a0d54d6fc4ae97ec57">John Eastman</a>. The proclamation, posted online late Sunday, explicitly says the pardon does not apply to Trump.

Presidential pardons apply only to federal crimes, and none of the Trump allies named were charged in federal cases over the 2020 election. But the move underscores President Donald Trump's continued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-special-prosecutor-2020-biden-election-194b3d49f49b0345f77873fc34b4dcc5">efforts to rewrite the history of the election</a>&nbsp;he lost to Democrat Joe Biden. It follows the sweeping pardons of the hundreds of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-trump-pardons-jan-6-f6e23bcd84eaed672318c88f05286767">Trump supporters charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot</a>&nbsp;at the U.S. Capitol, including those convicted of attacking law enforcement.

The proclamation described efforts to prosecute those accused of aiding Trump's efforts to cling to power “as a grave national injustice perpetrated on the American people” and said the pardons were designed to continue “the process of national reconciliation.”

The White House didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment Monday.

Also pardoned were Republicans who acted as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-fake-electors-michigan-e96dd694562a4b5903201ff538eca989">fake electors</a>&nbsp;for Trump in 2020 and were charged in state cases of submitting false certificates that confirmed they were legitimate electors despite Biden's victory in those states.

Trump himself was indicted on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">felony charges</a>&nbsp;accusing him of working overturn his 2020 election defeat, but the case brought by Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-capitol-riot-justice-department-jack-smith-d6172cf98d8e03e099571c908267456c">was abandoned</a>&nbsp;in November after Trump's victory over Democrat Kamala Harris because of the department's policy against prosecuting sitting presidents.

Giuliani, Meadows and others who were named in the proclamation had been charged by state prosecutors over the 2020 election, but the cases&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-fake-electors-michigan-e96dd694562a4b5903201ff538eca989">have hit a dead end or are just limping along</a>. A judge in September dismissed the Michigan case against 15 Republicans accused of attempting to falsely certify Trump as the winner of the election in that battleground state.

See the list: Trump pardons those tied to efforts to overturn the 2020 election

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Police have arrested a suspect in connection with a Thursday afternoon shooting in Wichita.

Just after 1 p.m.,&nbsp; police were alerted by a Raven gunshot detection system to a possible shooting in the 900 Block of North Terrace in Wichita, according to a media release.

 Responding officers determined that a disturbance had occurred between two individuals who were known to each other. During the altercation, one of the individuals was shot and left the scene in a private vehicle.&nbsp;

About an hour later, the victim’s girlfriend called 911. Officers and EMS responded to the 2400 block of South Minnesota, where they located a 47-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his lower leg. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Police took the 53-year-old suspect, according to county arrest records as Darrick D. Reed, into custody. He was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of of aggravated battery and two counts of aggravated assault. 

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Suspect arrested after Kan. shooting victim's girlfriend called 911

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate took the first step to end the government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">shutdown</a>&nbsp;on Sunday after a group of moderate Democrats agreed to proceed without a guaranteed extension of health care subsidies, angering many in their caucus who say Americans want them to continue the fight.

In a test vote that is the first in a series of required procedural maneuvers, the Senate voted 60-40 to move toward passing compromise legislation to fund the government and hold a later vote on extending Affordable Care Act tax credits that expire Jan. 1. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted with the majority.

 Final passage could be several days away if Democrats object and delay the process.

The agreement does not guarantee the health care subsidies will be extended, as Democrats have demanded for almost six weeks. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York voted against moving ahead with the package, along with all but eight of his Democratic colleagues.

A group of three former governors — New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, New Hampshire Sen. Maggie Hassan and Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine — broke the six-week stalemate on Sunday when they agreed to vote to advance three bipartisan annual spending bills and extend the rest of government funding until late January in exchange for a mid-December vote on extending the health care tax credits.

The agreement also includes a reversal of the mass firings of federal workers by the Trump administration since the shutdown began on Oct. 1 and would ensure that federal workers receive back pay.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune quickly endorsed the deal and called an immediate vote to begin the process of approving it as the shutdown continued to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-cancellations-government-shutdown-what-to-know-dea56ba97690b43397a96289f5f949e8">disrupt flights nationwide</a>, threaten&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-food-government-shutdown-trump-4a6edf5a6dbdf18049f1585bf7b61687">food assistance</a>&nbsp;for millions of Americans and leave federal workers without pay.

“The time to act is now,” Thune said.

Returning to the White House on Sunday evening after attending a football game, President Donald Trump did not say whether he endorsed the deal. But he said, “It looks like we’re getting close to the shutdown ending.”

In addition to Shaheen, King and Hassan, Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, home to tens of thousands of federal workers, also voted in favor of moving forward on the agreement. Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin, the No. 2 Democrat, Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman and Nevada Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen also voted yes.

The moderates had expected a larger number of Democrats to vote with them as 10-12 Democratic senators had been part of the negotiations. But in the end, only five Democrats switched their votes — the exact number that Republicans needed. King, Cortez Masto and Fetterman had already been voting to open the government since Oct. 1.

The vote was temporarily delayed on Sunday evening as three conservatives who often criticize spending bills, Republican Sens. Mike Lee of Utah, Rick Scott of Florida and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, withheld their votes and huddled with Thune at the back of the chamber. They eventually voted yes after speaking to Trump, Lee said.

Another Republican, Sen John Cornyn of Texas, had to fly back from Texas to deliver the crucial 60th vote.

After Democrats met for over two hours to discuss the proposal, Schumer said he could not “in good faith” support it.

Schumer, who received blowback from his party in March when he voted to keep the government open, said that Democrats have now “sounded the alarm” on health care.

“We will not give up the fight,” he said.

Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who caucuses with the Democrats, said giving up the fight was a “horrific mistake.”

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., agreed, saying that in last week's elections people voted overwhelmingly Democratic “to urge Democrats to hold firm.”

Democrats had voted 14 times not to reopen the government as they demanded the extension of tax credits that make coverage more affordable under the Affordable Care Act. Republicans said they would not negotiate on health care, but GOP leaders have been quietly working with the group of moderates as the contours of an agreement began to emerge.

The agreement includes bipartisan bills worked out by the Senate Appropriations Committee to fund parts of government — food aid, veterans programs and the legislative branch, among other things. All other funding would be extended until the end of January, giving lawmakers more than two months to finish additional spending bills.

The deal would reinstate federal workers who had received reduction in force, or layoff, notices and reimburse states that spent their own funds to keep federal programs running during the shutdown. It would also protect against future reductions in force through January and guarantee federal workers would be paid once the shutdown is over.

House Democrats swiftly criticized the Senate.

Texas Rep. Greg Casar, the chairman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said a deal that doesn't reduce health care costs is a “betrayal” of millions of Americans who are counting on Democrats to fight.

“Accepting nothing but a pinky promise from Republicans isn’t a compromise — it’s capitulation,” Casar said in a post on X. "Millions of families would pay the price.”

Rep. Angie Craig of Minnesota posted that “if people believe this is a ‘deal,’ I have a bridge to sell you.”

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries blamed Republicans and said Democrats will continue to fight.

“Donald Trump and the Republican Party own the toxic mess they have created in our country and the American people know it,” Jeffries said.

It's unclear whether the two parties would be able to find any common ground on the health care subsidies before a promised December vote in the Senate. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has said he will not commit to bring it up in his chamber.

Some Republicans have said they are open to extending the COVID-19-era tax credits as premiums could skyrocket for millions of people, but they also want new limits on who can receive the subsidies and argue that the tax dollars for the plans should be routed through individuals.

Other Republicans, including Trump, have used the debate to renew their yearslong criticism of the law and called for it to be scrapped or overhauled.

Meanwhile, the consequences of the shutdown have been compounding. U.S. airlines&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/thanksgiving-air-traffic-shutdown-delays-ae216380cdf694c518bd2a4b0830eaea">canceled more than 2,000 flights</a>&nbsp;on Sunday for the first time since the shutdown began, and there were more than 7,000 flight delays, according to FlightAware, a website that tracks air travel disruptions.

Treasury Secretary Sean Duffy said on CNN’s “State of the Union" that air travel ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday will be “reduced to a trickle” if the government doesn't reopen.

At the same time, food aid was delayed for tens of millions of people as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-how-it-works-cards-e061c2af0f3cc997b69a24296238783c">benefits</a>&nbsp;were caught up in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-benefits-trump-administration-demands-undo-states-d433f20df4d461db506e0d327a58d3c1">legal battles</a>&nbsp;related to the shutdown.

And in Washington, home to tens of thousands of federal workers who have gone unpaid, the Capital Area Food Bank said it is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-washington-economy-trump-food-bank-0f54be181fcaca70161a12b869cb619b">providing 8 million more meals</a>&nbsp;ahead of the holidays than it had prepared for this budget year — a nearly 20% increase.

Associated Press writers Stephen Groves and Kevin Freking contributed to this report.

Moran, Marshall help Senate take first step to end gov't shutdown

HENRY COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured just after 3p.m. Saturday when her kayak capsized on Truman Lake.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 45-year-old Olathe woman&nbsp; &nbsp;was overcome by wind and waves&nbsp;about two miles south of the Sparrow Foot Boat Ramp. The boat capsized and she fell into the water. She swam to the nearest shoreline. EMS transported her to Golden Valley Hospital in Clinton.&nbsp;

She was not wearing a safety device, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Kan. woman hospitalized after kayak capsized on lake

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A cause of a weekend fire that slowed traffic on the Kansas Turnpike is under investigation.

Just after 7a.m. Saturday, fire units were dispatched to a reported Semi Truck on fire on Interstate 35 just north of the Belle Plaine service area, according to Mulvate Fire and Rescue.

Crews found a Cement Mixer truck heavily involved in fire. There were no injuries were reported.&nbsp; Authorities released no additional details.

Cement mixer fire on Kansas highway

Preliminary tests showed that ByHeart baby formula contained the type of bacteria that produces the toxin linked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/infant-botulism-formula-byheart-recall-fda-cdc-91019e385a98a2fceb26a12005ea3fbb">a botulism outbreak</a>, California health officials said.

The outbreak has sickened at least 13 infants in 10 states. No deaths have been reported.

“Consumers in possession of this product should stop using it immediately,” the California Department of Public Health said in a statement late Saturday.

More tests of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula are pending as state and federal health officials investigate the outbreak that started in mid-August. The New York-based company this weekend recalled two lots of the powdered product.

Here’s what to know about the outbreak and infant botulism.

The outbreak of infant botulism has sickened babies aged 2 weeks to 5 months since mid-August. All were hospitalized after consuming ByHeart powdered formula, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The cases occurred in Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Washington.

ByHeart officials agreed to recall two lots of the company's Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The formula has a best-by date of December 2026.

California health officials tested a can of the powdered formula that was fed to a baby who fell ill. The results “suggest the presence” of the type of bacteria that produces the botulism toxin confirmed in other cases. It can take several days to confirm the results.

ByHeart officials said that “more testing is needed” to know whether the type of bacteria that causes botulism is present. It comes from a large family of bacteria, many of which are found naturally in the environment and don't cause illness, the company said.

“We take this very seriously,” it said in a statement Sunday.

The FDA is investigating reports of 83 cases of infant botulism reported since August including the cases linked to Byheart baby formula.

Infant botulism typically affects fewer than 200 babies in the U.S. each year. It is caused by a type of bacteria that produces toxins in the large intestine. The bacterium is spread through hardy spores present in the environment that can cause serious illness, including paralysis.

Infants younger than 1 are particularly vulnerable and can be sickened after exposure to the spores in dust, dirt or water or by eating contaminated honey.

Symptoms can take weeks to develop and can include poor feeding, loss of head control, drooping eyelids and a flat facial expression. Babies may feel “floppy” and can have problems swallowing or breathing.

No known outbreaks of infant botulism tied to powdered formula have previously been confirmed, said Dr. Steven Abrams, a University of Texas nutrition expert.

“This would be extremely rare,” he said.

The only treatment is known as BabyBIG, an IV medication made from the pooled blood plasma of adults immunized against botulism. California's Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program developed the product and is the sole source worldwide.

Local

Region

Sports

Weather