WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional leaders have unveiled a stopgap spending bill that will keep the federal government funded through March 14 and provide more than $100 billion in emergency aid to help states and local communities recover from Hurricanes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hurricane-helene">Helene</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hurricane-milton">Milton</a>&nbsp;and other natural disasters.

Kansas Senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran wrote on social media, "If there is no assistance for our farmers and ranchers in the Continuing Resolution, I will not support the bill."

The measure would prevent a partial government shutdown set to begin after midnight Friday. It would kick final decisions on this budget year's spending levels to a new Republican-led Congress and President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>. The continuing resolution generally continues current spending levels for agencies.

Passage of the measure is one of the final actions that lawmakers will consider this week before adjourning for the holidays and making way for the next Congress. It's the second short-term funding measure the lawmakers have taken up this fall as they struggled to pass the dozen annual appropriations bills before the new fiscal year began Oct. 1, as they typically do.

The bill will provide $100.4 billion in disaster relief, with an additional $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers struggling with low commodity prices and high input costs.

“We have to be able to help those who are in these dire straits,” said House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;told reporters.

Net farm income is projected to decline 4.1% this year after falling 19.4% the year before from the record highs reached in 2022. Johnson indicated more farm aid could be delivered in the next Congress, saying “we can't do all it right now.”

“Congress is doing the best it can under difficult circumstances, and I think it will be a big boost for the industry,” Johnson said.

Rep. Glenn Thompson, the Republican chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, said he was hoping for more economic relief for farmers, but “it’s a great start.”

“I think it’s going to send the right signal to the markets that most farmers and ranchers are going to be able to get eligible for the credit they need to borrow in order to plant a crop or raise a herd,” Thompson said.

President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;has sought about $114 billion in disaster aid,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-emergency-disaster-aid-helene-milton-hurricanes-10dab08476e9a798219878baeeb76e31">submitting</a>&nbsp;a $99 billion request in November, telling lawmakers the funding was “urgently needed.” The administration subsequently updated its request to include funding to repair federal facilities damaged due to natural disasters.

The largest share of the money, about $29 billion, will go to the main disaster relief fund at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The fund helps with debris removal, repairing public infrastructure and providing financial assistance to survivors. About $21 billion goes to help farmers who have experienced crop or livestock losses.

Another $8 billion will go to help rebuild and repair highways and bridges in more than 40 states and territories. And some $12 billion would go toward helping communities recover through block grants administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. About $2.2 billion would go to low-interest loans for businesses, nonprofits and homeowners trying to rebuild after a disaster.

As it typically does, Congress is expected to act just before another shutdown deadline. House Republicans generally give lawmakers 72 hours to review text of the legislation, which would push a vote on final passage to Friday if they follow through on that rule. The Senate is not known for acting speedily, but many lawmakers are anxious to adjourn for the year and make way for the next Congress.

Since the bill is the last must-pass legislation of the current Congress, lawmakers have worked to get certain priorities included. On the health care front, the legislation seeks to extend coverage of telehealth appointments for Medicare enrollees and rein in how much money pharmacy benefits managers — the companies that negotiate how and what drugs are covered by insurance plans — make off those deals.

The bill also includes provisions focused on countering China, including expanding on a Biden executive order that seeks to restrict investments into countries that pose a national security threat to the United States. Blocking China’s high-tech ambitions is one of the few issues that enjoys broad support in Washington from both Republicans and Democrats.

There's also a provision to transfer the land that is the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-commanders-rfk-stadium-e82cb3c504dc700b30b34f8ca6924c21">site of the old RFK Stadium</a>&nbsp;from the federal government to the District of Columbia, which could potentially lead to a new stadium for the Washington Commanders.

The legislation also provides full federal funding to rebuild Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse">collapsed</a>&nbsp;when struck by a cargo ship that reported losing power just before the crash. Federal taxpayers will be reimbursed through proceeds from insurance payments and litigation.

Associated Press staff writers Stephen Groves and Amanda Seitz contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734474980545.png" alt="The 2024 Capitol Christmas Tree -photo courtesy Architect of the Capitol" />
 <figcaption>The 2024 Capitol Christmas Tree -photo courtesy Architect of the Capitol</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional leaders have unveiled a stopgap spending bill that will keep the federal government funded through March 14 and provide more than $100 billion in emergency aid to help states and local communities recover from Hurricanes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hurricane-helene">Helene</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hurricane-milton">Milton</a>&nbsp;and other natural disasters.Kansas Senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran wrote on social media, "If there is no assistance for our farmers and ranchers in the Continuing Resolution, I will not support the bill."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If there is no assistance for our farmers and ranchers in the Continuing Resolution, I will not support the bill. Through no fault of their own, Kansas farm families are struggling to keep their heads above water, and it is critical they receive assistance as soon as possible to…&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1868700617914319004?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The measure would prevent a partial government shutdown set to begin after midnight Friday. It would kick final decisions on this budget year's spending levels to a new Republican-led Congress and President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>. The continuing resolution generally continues current spending levels for agencies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734522095390.png" alt="1,547 page spending bill-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>1,547 page spending bill-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Passage of the measure is one of the final actions that lawmakers will consider this week before adjourning for the holidays and making way for the next Congress. It's the second short-term funding measure the lawmakers have taken up this fall as they struggled to pass the dozen annual appropriations bills before the new fiscal year began Oct. 1, as they typically do.The bill will provide $100.4 billion in disaster relief, with an additional $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers struggling with low commodity prices and high input costs.“We have to be able to help those who are in these dire straits,” said House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;told reporters.Net farm income is projected to decline 4.1% this year after falling 19.4% the year before from the record highs reached in 2022. Johnson indicated more farm aid could be delivered in the next Congress, saying “we can't do all it right now.”“Congress is doing the best it can under difficult circumstances, and I think it will be a big boost for the industry,” Johnson said.Rep. Glenn Thompson, the Republican chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, said he was hoping for more economic relief for farmers, but “it’s a great start.”“I think it’s going to send the right signal to the markets that most farmers and ranchers are going to be able to get eligible for the credit they need to borrow in order to plant a crop or raise a herd,” Thompson said.President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;has sought about $114 billion in disaster aid,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-emergency-disaster-aid-helene-milton-hurricanes-10dab08476e9a798219878baeeb76e31">submitting</a>&nbsp;a $99 billion request in November, telling lawmakers the funding was “urgently needed.” The administration subsequently updated its request to include funding to repair federal facilities damaged due to natural disasters.The largest share of the money, about $29 billion, will go to the main disaster relief fund at the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The fund helps with debris removal, repairing public infrastructure and providing financial assistance to survivors. About $21 billion goes to help farmers who have experienced crop or livestock losses.Another $8 billion will go to help rebuild and repair highways and bridges in more than 40 states and territories. And some $12 billion would go toward helping communities recover through block grants administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. About $2.2 billion would go to low-interest loans for businesses, nonprofits and homeowners trying to rebuild after a disaster.As it typically does, Congress is expected to act just before another shutdown deadline. House Republicans generally give lawmakers 72 hours to review text of the legislation, which would push a vote on final passage to Friday if they follow through on that rule. The Senate is not known for acting speedily, but many lawmakers are anxious to adjourn for the year and make way for the next Congress.Since the bill is the last must-pass legislation of the current Congress, lawmakers have worked to get certain priorities included. On the health care front, the legislation seeks to extend coverage of telehealth appointments for Medicare enrollees and rein in how much money pharmacy benefits managers — the companies that negotiate how and what drugs are covered by insurance plans — make off those deals.The bill also includes provisions focused on countering China, including expanding on a Biden executive order that seeks to restrict investments into countries that pose a national security threat to the United States. Blocking China’s high-tech ambitions is one of the few issues that enjoys broad support in Washington from both Republicans and Democrats.There's also a provision to transfer the land that is the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-commanders-rfk-stadium-e82cb3c504dc700b30b34f8ca6924c21">site of the old RFK Stadium</a>&nbsp;from the federal government to the District of Columbia, which could potentially lead to a new stadium for the Washington Commanders.The legislation also provides full federal funding to rebuild Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/baltimore-key-bridge-collapse">collapsed</a>&nbsp;when struck by a cargo ship that reported losing power just before the crash. Federal taxpayers will be reimbursed through proceeds from insurance payments and litigation.____Associated Press staff writers Stephen Groves and Amanda Seitz contributed to this report.

Kan. U.S. Senator demands Merry Christmas for farmers in budget deal

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire in an apartment building in Kansas City.

Just after 9:30a.m. Tuesday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported apartment fire in the 100 block of West 39th Street in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

FIrst arriving crews reported smoke showing from the first floor of the three-story apartment building. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The first and third floors were vacant, however there were occupied apartments on the second floor. 

The damage was limited to the first-floor apartments. After an initial Red Cross request it was determined that the second-floor residence would be able to occupy their apartments after the electrical for the first floor was isolated.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734476281012.png" alt="Photos KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire in an apartment building in Kansas City.Just after 9:30a.m. Tuesday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported apartment fire in the 100 block of West 39th Street in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734476185880.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FIrst arriving crews reported smoke showing from the first floor of the three-story apartment building. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The first and third floors were vacant, however there were occupied apartments on the second floor. The damage was limited to the first-floor apartments. After an initial Red Cross request it was determined that the second-floor residence would be able to occupy their apartments after the electrical for the first floor was isolated.&nbsp;

Authorities investigate cause of KC apartment fire

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 9p.m. Tuesday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp; Frick, 40, Hays, was southbound on U183 at Munjor Road.

The pickup crossed the center line and struck a northbound semi driven by Jesse W. Crum, 34, Colorado. After impact, both vehicles traveled into the west ditch and came to rest on their wheels.

&nbsp;Frick was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Brock's- Keithley Funeral Home. Crum was not injured.&nbsp; Frick was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 9p.m. Tuesday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Toyota Tundra driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Brandon L.&nbsp; Frick, 40, Hays, was southbound on U183 at Munjor Road.The pickup crossed the center line and struck a northbound semi driven by Jesse W. Crum, 34, Colorado. After impact, both vehicles traveled into the west ditch and came to rest on their wheels.&nbsp;Frick was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Brock's- Keithley Funeral Home. Crum was not injured.&nbsp; Frick was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after pickup, semi crash

BUTLER COUNTY —An employee of a Kansas school district is under investigation for an alleged sex crime involving a child aboard a school bus.

Just before 9a.m. Tuesday, administrators with USD 402 Augusta contacted police about an alleged sexual assault of a child by school district staff member, according to a media release from the Augusta Department of Public Safety.

The school district gave officers video they had just discovered which showed the assault that occurred on Monday aboard a school bus.

Police and school district officials identified the suspect as 73-year-old William A. Wetzel of Augusta. Police arrested him at a remote school facility where children were not present.&nbsp; Police booked Wetzel into the Butler County Jail on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties of a child.

The circumstances and evidence gathered indicate this was an isolated incident, according to police. No other children were present at the time of the incident and police are not aware of any other victims.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734467161407.png" alt="Wetzel photo Butler County" />
 <figcaption>Wetzel photo Butler County</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —An employee of a Kansas school district is under investigation for an alleged sex crime involving a child aboard a school bus.Just before 9a.m. Tuesday, administrators with USD 402 Augusta contacted police about an alleged sexual assault of a child by school district staff member, according to a media release from the Augusta Department of Public Safety.The school district gave officers video they had just discovered which showed the assault that occurred on Monday aboard a school bus.Police and school district officials identified the suspect as 73-year-old William A. Wetzel of Augusta. Police arrested him at a remote school facility where children were not present.&nbsp; Police booked Wetzel into the Butler County Jail on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties of a child.The circumstances and evidence gathered indicate this was an isolated incident, according to police. No other children were present at the time of the incident and police are not aware of any other victims.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kan. school district discovers video of sex assault of student on bus

KIOWA COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just before 3p.m. Tuesday in Kiowa County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Ram 1500 driven by&nbsp; Donald&nbsp;Knier, 83, Hugoton, was westbound on U.S. 54 just east of 13th Avenue.

The pickup traveled left of the center line and struck a 2005 Ford F150 driven by Tabitha&nbsp;Ward, 17, Stratford, Texas. After impact both vehicles caught fire.

Knier and Ward were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to&nbsp; Ford County Coroner's Office. The KHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

KIOWA COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just before 3p.m. Tuesday in Kiowa County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Ram 1500 driven by&nbsp; Donald&nbsp;Knier, 83, Hugoton, was westbound on U.S. 54 just east of 13th Avenue.The pickup traveled left of the center line and struck a 2005 Ford F150 driven by Tabitha&nbsp;Ward, 17, Stratford, Texas. After impact both vehicles caught fire.Knier and Ward were pronounced dead at the scene and were transported to&nbsp; Ford County Coroner's Office. The KHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

Kansas man, teen dead after head-on crash and fire

RENO COUNTY— A Kansas man accused of attempted murder made his initial court appearance Tuesday.

According to court documents filed by Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton, Randy Colin, 30, is alleged to have attempted to kill Logan Mansur on January 22, 2022 by attempting to smother Mansur with a pillow and also attempting to strangle Mansur.

In addition to the attempted murder charge, Colin is also charged with the lesser offenses of Aggravated Domestic Battery and Domestic Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734458394275.png" alt="Colin -photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Colin -photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY— A Kansas man accused of attempted murder made his initial court appearance Tuesday.According to court documents filed by Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton, Randy Colin, 30, is alleged to have attempted to kill Logan Mansur on January 22, 2022 by attempting to smother Mansur with a pillow and also attempting to strangle Mansur.In addition to the attempted murder charge, Colin is also charged with the lesser offenses of Aggravated Domestic Battery and Domestic Battery.

Court docs: Kan. man tried to smother victim to death with a pillow

Washington, D.C. -&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall who sits on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee met with President Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Trumps choice to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation Kash Patel.

" I had a great meeting with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the next Secretary of Health and Human Services. I strongly support many of his goals, especially as it relates to Making America Healthy Again (MAHA). 

As a nation, we must prioritize addressing chronic disease, improving nutrition and food policy, ensuring vaccine and drug safety, empowering the physician-patient relationship, and leaving our world cleaner, safer, and healthier for future generations. I look forward to supporting his nomination and helping in the Trump Administration's mission to build a stronger and healthier America."

I had a great meeting with our next FBI Director

" Kash Patel is the man to turn things around and restore the FBI. He's a man of integrity, committed to truth and justice, with an exceptional resume. He will ensure the FBI is working to protect the American people instead of being politically weaponized against them.

Kansas Senior U.S. Senator also met with President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734473282160.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Washington, D.C. -&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall who sits on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee met with President Donald Trump’s nominee to serve as U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and Trumps choice to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation Kash Patel." I had a great meeting with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the next Secretary of Health and Human Services. I strongly support many of his goals, especially as it relates to Making America Healthy Again (MAHA). As a nation, we must prioritize addressing chronic disease, improving nutrition and food policy, ensuring vaccine and drug safety, empowering the physician-patient relationship, and leaving our world cleaner, safer, and healthier for future generations. I look forward to supporting his nomination and helping in the Trump Administration's mission to build a stronger and healthier America."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734452495966.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>I had a great meeting with our next FBI Director" Kash Patel is the man to turn things around and restore the FBI. He's a man of integrity, committed to truth and justice, with an exceptional resume. He will ensure the FBI is working to protect the American people instead of being politically weaponized against them.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Always great to see my friend Senator <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JerryMoran</a> ! We discussed bringing strong leadership to the world stage under President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and delivering on his America First peace through strength national security agenda. 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/PnHY0S8exH">pic.twitter.com/PnHY0S8exH</a>&mdash; Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) <a href="https://twitter.com/EliseStefanik/status/1869083134995931139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas Senior U.S. Senator also met with President Trump’s nominee for Director of National Intelligence, former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and

RFK Jr. met with Kansas U.S. Senator on Capitol Hill

LONDON (AP) — The world’s most famous fictional Top Gun is now a decorated naval hero.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mission-impossible-dead-reckoning-tom-cruise-b26aeabf09582de9cbb8361fca4c34b4">Tom Cruise</a>&nbsp;was awarded the U.S. Navy’s top civilian honor on Tuesday for “outstanding contributions to the Navy and the Marine Corps” with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/top-gun-maverick-film-review-dfe987ecf3250c3f0103da09b3dc76dc">“Top Gun” and other films</a>.

Cruise, who has been working in the U.K., was given the Distinguished Public Service Award by U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro in a ceremony at Longcross Studios near London.

The 62-year-old actor said he was proud to receive the “extraordinary acknowledgement,” which came with a medal and a certificate.

“I admire all of the servicemen and women,” Cruise said. “I know in life, something that is very true to me, is that is to lead is to serve. And I know that to my core. And I see that in the servicemen and women.”

The navy said Cruise had “increased public awareness and appreciation for our highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform.”

“Top Gun,” the smash hit 1986 movie about Cold War flying aces, made Cruise a star and drove a spike in military enlistment. The Navy even set up recruitment tables in theaters.

Interest was renewed with the 2022 sequel “Top Gun: Maverick,” in which Cruise’s character mentored a new generation of elite aviators.

The navy said the sequel “brought nostalgia to older audiences and reinvigorated the minds of newer audience members, which effectively targeted a younger audience’s interest into the skill sets and opportunities the Navy can provide.”

Cruise was also commended for his roles in “Born on the Fourth of July,” “A Few Good Men” and the “Mission: Impossible” movies.

Cruise’s next on-screen adventure, “Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning,” is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mission-impossible-postponed-sagaftra-strike-actors-ffbbb788219edaa196529d02e304de81">due for release</a>&nbsp;in May 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734482320999.png" alt="Tom Cruise, the U.S. Navy’s 36th Honorary Naval Aviator and staunch advocate for the U.S. Navy, was awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service (DPS) Award for his dedication to the Navy.-photo U.S. Navy" />
 <figcaption>Tom Cruise, the U.S. Navy’s 36th Honorary Naval Aviator and staunch advocate for the U.S. Navy, was awarded the Department of the Navy Distinguished Public Service (DPS) Award for his dedication to the Navy.-photo U.S. Navy</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — The world’s most famous fictional Top Gun is now a decorated naval hero.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mission-impossible-dead-reckoning-tom-cruise-b26aeabf09582de9cbb8361fca4c34b4">Tom Cruise</a>&nbsp;was awarded the U.S. Navy’s top civilian honor on Tuesday for “outstanding contributions to the Navy and the Marine Corps” with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/top-gun-maverick-film-review-dfe987ecf3250c3f0103da09b3dc76dc">“Top Gun” and other films</a>.Cruise, who has been working in the U.K., was given the Distinguished Public Service Award by U.S. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro in a ceremony at Longcross Studios near London.The 62-year-old actor said he was proud to receive the “extraordinary acknowledgement,” which came with a medal and a certificate.“I admire all of the servicemen and women,” Cruise said. “I know in life, something that is very true to me, is that is to lead is to serve. And I know that to my core. And I see that in the servicemen and women.”The navy said Cruise had “increased public awareness and appreciation for our highly trained personnel and the sacrifices they make while in uniform.”“Top Gun,” the smash hit 1986 movie about Cold War flying aces, made Cruise a star and drove a spike in military enlistment. The Navy even set up recruitment tables in theaters.Interest was renewed with the 2022 sequel “Top Gun: Maverick,” in which Cruise’s character mentored a new generation of elite aviators.The navy said the sequel “brought nostalgia to older audiences and reinvigorated the minds of newer audience members, which effectively targeted a younger audience’s interest into the skill sets and opportunities the Navy can provide.”Cruise was also commended for his roles in “Born on the Fourth of July,” “A Few Good Men” and the “Mission: Impossible” movies.Cruise’s next on-screen adventure, “Mission: Impossible: The Final Reckoning,” is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mission-impossible-postponed-sagaftra-strike-actors-ffbbb788219edaa196529d02e304de81">due for release</a>&nbsp;in May 2025.

Tom Cruise awarded top Navy honor for military movie roles

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement are investigating after the discovery of skeletal remains on Monday.

Just after 6p.m., deputies were called to the 4800 block of South Clifton after receiving reports of remains found beneath a tree behind a closed business, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.

 The advanced decomposition of the body prevented immediate identification, including an approximate age or gender.

Detectives were joined at the scene by the Sedgwick County Coroner and an anthropologist to assess the discovery. The remains were transported to the Regional Forensic Science Center, to determine the identity of the individual.

Detectives are reviewing missing persons reports from the region and continuing to collaborate with the forensic science center.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (316) 660-5300.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734472980895.png" alt="Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office-Image courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office-Image courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement are investigating after the discovery of skeletal remains on Monday.Just after 6p.m., deputies were called to the 4800 block of South Clifton after receiving reports of remains found beneath a tree behind a closed business, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt. The advanced decomposition of the body prevented immediate identification, including an approximate age or gender.Detectives were joined at the scene by the Sedgwick County Coroner and an anthropologist to assess the discovery. The remains were transported to the Regional Forensic Science Center, to determine the identity of the individual.Detectives are reviewing missing persons reports from the region and continuing to collaborate with the forensic science center.Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division at (316) 660-5300.

Human skeletal remains found under tree behind closed Kan. business 

NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of killing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-shooting-79a9710978fc7adbb23d3fed4ea2f70d">UnitedHealthcare's CEO</a>&nbsp;has been charged with murder as an act of terrorism, prosecutors said Tuesday as they worked to bring him to a New York court from from a Pennsylvania jail.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-shooting-luigi-mangione-10ee2f70cd843a27940a9cf1a06edf55">Luigi Mangione</a>&nbsp;already was charged with murder in the Dec. 4 killing of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-healthcare-ceo-new-york-shooting-brian-thompson-8a130e64bcab749d1a085f5a34ab8254">Brian Thompson</a>, but the terror allegation is new.

Under New York law, such a charge can be brought when an alleged crime is “intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence the policies of a unit of government by intimidation or coercion and affect the conduct of a unit of government by murder, assassination or kidnapping.”

Mangione’s New York lawyer has not commented on the case.

Thompson, 50, was shot dead as he walked to a Manhattan hotel where Minnesota-based UnitedHealthcare — the United States' biggest medical insurer — was holding an investor conference.

“This was a frightening, well-planned, targeted murder that was intended to cause shock and attention and intimidation,” Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said at a news conference Tuesday. “It occurred in one of the most bustling parts of our city, threatened the safety of local residents and tourists alike, commuters and businesspeople just starting out on their day.”

After days of intense police searches and publicity, Mangione was spotted at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and arrested. New York police officials have said Mangione was carrying&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ghost-guns-unitedhealthcare-ceo-1e3b449dd9ed5fabeb2ad592fde91575">the gun</a>&nbsp;used to kill Thompson, a passport and various fake IDs, including one that the suspected shooter presented to check into a New York hostel.

The 26-year-old was charged with Pennsylvania gun and forgery offenses and locked up there without bail. His Pennsylvania lawyer has questioned the evidence for the forgery charge and the legal grounding for the gun charge. The attorney also has said Mangione would fight&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-shooting-suspect-extradition-04e0ca9b04804e3731f6619f04400994">extradition</a>&nbsp;to New York.

Mangione has two court hearings scheduled for Thursday in Pennsylvania, including an extradition hearing, Bragg noted.

Hours after his arrest, the Manhattan district attorney’s office filed paperwork charging him with murder and other offenses. The indictment builds on that paperwork.

Investigators’ working theory is that Mangione, an Ivy League computer science grad from a prominent Maryland family, was propelled by anger at the U.S. health care system. A law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press week said that when arrested, he was carrying a handwritten letter that called health insurance companies “parasitic” and complained about corporate greed.

Mangione repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luigi-mangione-back-surgery-mental-health-35086d2e01089f53db7b95e7b6c683e4">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;about how spinal surgery last year had eased his chronic back pain, encouraging people with similar conditions to speak up for themselves if told they just had to live with it.

In a Reddit post in late April, he advised someone with a back problem to seek additional opinions from surgeons and, if necessary, say the pain made it impossible to work.

“We live in a capitalist society,” Mangione wrote. “I’ve found that the medical industry responds to these key words far more urgently than you describing unbearable pain and how it’s impacting your quality of life.”

He was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luigi-mangione-united-healthcare-ceo-d148fbdde498c3ea4cf768945889d7e7">never a UnitedHealthcare client</a>, according to the insurer.

Mangione apparently cut himself off from his family and close friends in recent months. His family&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luigi-mangione-unitedhealthcare-ceo-743e8b3ffb6a03a177c0e6d56f119581">reported him missing</a>&nbsp;to San Francisco authorities in November.

Thompson, who grew up on a farm in small-town Iowa, was trained as an accountant. A married father of two high-schoolers, he had worked at the giant UnitedHealth Group for 20 years and became CEO of its insurance arm in 2021.

His killing kindled a fiery outpouring of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-delay-deny-depose-insurance-online-criticism-2d9c9a1a2a551876e72a11a93fc7624c">resentment toward U.S. health insurance companies</a>, as Americans swapped stories online and elsewhere of being denied coverage, left in limbo as doctors and insurers disagreed, and stuck with sizeable bills.

The shooting also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-security-threats-wanted-posters-9a6687d14e667e5b48a1581923830e3f">rattled C-suites</a>, as “wanted” posters with other health care executives’ names and faces appeared on New York streets and an outpouring of online vitriol prompted police to warn that there could be an “elevated threat.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733850051113.png" alt="Mangione in a&nbsp; Blair County, PA., holding cell" />
 <figcaption>Mangione in a&nbsp; Blair County, PA., holding cell</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of killing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-shooting-79a9710978fc7adbb23d3fed4ea2f70d">UnitedHealthcare's CEO</a>&nbsp;has been charged with murder as an act of terrorism, prosecutors said Tuesday as they worked to bring him to a New York court from from a Pennsylvania jail.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-shooting-luigi-mangione-10ee2f70cd843a27940a9cf1a06edf55">Luigi Mangione</a>&nbsp;already was charged with murder in the Dec. 4 killing of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-healthcare-ceo-new-york-shooting-brian-thompson-8a130e64bcab749d1a085f5a34ab8254">Brian Thompson</a>, but the terror allegation is new.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733331393274.png" alt="Security camera image of the crime- New York Police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image of the crime- New York Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Under New York law, such a charge can be brought when an alleged crime is “intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence the policies of a unit of government by intimidation or coercion and affect the conduct of a unit of government by murder, assassination or kidnapping.”Mangione’s New York lawyer has not commented on the case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733324311684.png" alt="Brian Thompson courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Brian Thompson courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Thompson, 50, was shot dead as he walked to a Manhattan hotel where Minnesota-based UnitedHealthcare — the United States' biggest medical insurer — was holding an investor conference.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733849447711.png" alt="Mangione -photo Pennsylvania Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Mangione -photo Pennsylvania Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>“This was a frightening, well-planned, targeted murder that was intended to cause shock and attention and intimidation,” Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said at a news conference Tuesday. “It occurred in one of the most bustling parts of our city, threatened the safety of local residents and tourists alike, commuters and businesspeople just starting out on their day.”After days of intense police searches and publicity, Mangione was spotted at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and arrested. New York police officials have said Mangione was carrying&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ghost-guns-unitedhealthcare-ceo-1e3b449dd9ed5fabeb2ad592fde91575">the gun</a>&nbsp;used to kill Thompson, a passport and various fake IDs, including one that the suspected shooter presented to check into a New York hostel.The 26-year-old was charged with Pennsylvania gun and forgery offenses and locked up there without bail. His Pennsylvania lawyer has questioned the evidence for the forgery charge and the legal grounding for the gun charge. The attorney also has said Mangione would fight&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-shooting-suspect-extradition-04e0ca9b04804e3731f6619f04400994">extradition</a>&nbsp;to New York.Mangione has two court hearings scheduled for Thursday in Pennsylvania, including an extradition hearing, Bragg noted.Hours after his arrest, the Manhattan district attorney’s office filed paperwork charging him with murder and other offenses. The indictment builds on that paperwork.Investigators’ working theory is that Mangione, an Ivy League computer science grad from a prominent Maryland family, was propelled by anger at the U.S. health care system. A law enforcement bulletin obtained by The Associated Press week said that when arrested, he was carrying a handwritten letter that called health insurance companies “parasitic” and complained about corporate greed.Mangione repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luigi-mangione-back-surgery-mental-health-35086d2e01089f53db7b95e7b6c683e4">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;about how spinal surgery last year had eased his chronic back pain, encouraging people with similar conditions to speak up for themselves if told they just had to live with it.In a Reddit post in late April, he advised someone with a back problem to seek additional opinions from surgeons and, if necessary, say the pain made it impossible to work.“We live in a capitalist society,” Mangione wrote. “I’ve found that the medical industry responds to these key words far more urgently than you describing unbearable pain and how it’s impacting your quality of life.”He was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luigi-mangione-united-healthcare-ceo-d148fbdde498c3ea4cf768945889d7e7">never a UnitedHealthcare client</a>, according to the insurer.Mangione apparently cut himself off from his family and close friends in recent months. His family&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/luigi-mangione-unitedhealthcare-ceo-743e8b3ffb6a03a177c0e6d56f119581">reported him missing</a>&nbsp;to San Francisco authorities in November.Thompson, who grew up on a farm in small-town Iowa, was trained as an accountant. A married father of two high-schoolers, he had worked at the giant UnitedHealth Group for 20 years and became CEO of its insurance arm in 2021.His killing kindled a fiery outpouring of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-delay-deny-depose-insurance-online-criticism-2d9c9a1a2a551876e72a11a93fc7624c">resentment toward U.S. health insurance companies</a>, as Americans swapped stories online and elsewhere of being denied coverage, left in limbo as doctors and insurers disagreed, and stuck with sizeable bills.The shooting also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-security-threats-wanted-posters-9a6687d14e667e5b48a1581923830e3f">rattled C-suites</a>, as “wanted” posters with other health care executives’ names and faces appeared on New York streets and an outpouring of online vitriol prompted police to warn that there could be an “elevated threat.”

Act of terrorism: Suspect charged in killing insurance CEO 

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran delivered&nbsp;a&nbsp;keynote speech at the ceremony to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium.

The ceremony was held at the Battle of the Bulge Memorial in Bastogne and included WWII veterans from the Battle of the Bulge, Members of Congress and European leaders.

Sen. Moran also attended the 80th Anniversary ceremony at the Luxembourg American Cemetery where over 5,000 Americans are buried.“Eighty years after the Battle of the Bulge we remember the cost paid by those who died here,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Time cannot dim the glory of their deeds.”

“There is a smaller memorial to the veterans of the Battle of the Bulge in Abilene, Kansas at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library that bears an inscription that I will end with here today, it reads: ‘let us be glad that such heroes have lived, and mourn those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.’

“Let us indeed be glad that such heroes have lived, and let us strive to live our lives in a manner worthy of their sacrifice.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734452772595.png" alt="Sen. Moran at the Luxembourg American Cemetery" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Moran at the Luxembourg American Cemetery</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran delivered&nbsp;a&nbsp;keynote speech at the ceremony to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/55XDOpo2YN4?si=eO6dJspgTznTeNE8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The ceremony was held at the Battle of the Bulge Memorial in Bastogne and included WWII veterans from the Battle of the Bulge, Members of Congress and European leaders.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734123059902.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Sen. Moran also attended the 80th Anniversary ceremony at the Luxembourg American Cemetery where over 5,000 Americans are buried.“Eighty years after the Battle of the Bulge we remember the cost paid by those who died here,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Time cannot dim the glory of their deeds.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">We welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nasa</a> Bill Nelson and Members of Congress to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Luxembourg and Belgium. The sacrifices of brave <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WWII?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WWII</a> soldiers echo from the past, reminding us that each generation must continue the fight for freedom and… <a href="https://t.co/ae50RVceWL">pic.twitter.com/ae50RVceWL</a>&mdash; U.S. Embassy Luxembourg (@USEmbLuxembourg) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbLuxembourg/status/1867570544675090828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“There is a smaller memorial to the veterans of the Battle of the Bulge in Abilene, Kansas at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library that bears an inscription that I will end with here today, it reads: ‘let us be glad that such heroes have lived, and mourn those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.’“Let us indeed be glad that such heroes have lived, and let us strive to live our lives in a manner worthy of their sacrifice.”

🎥Moran's remarks at 80th anniversary of Battle of the Bulge 

WASHINGTON (AP) — TikTok on Monday asked the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;to step in on an emergency basis to block the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bytedance-tiktok-ban-court-trump-2f8c86057073f9412ddb7e5b3a427e0a">federal law</a>&nbsp;that would ban the popular platform in the United States unless its China-based parent company agreed to sell it.

Lawyers for the company and China-based ByteDance urged the justices to step in before the law's Jan. 19 deadline. A similar plea was expected from content creators who rely on the platform for income and some of TikTok's more than 170 million users in the U.S.

“A modest delay in enforcing the Act will create breathing room for this Court to conduct an orderly review and the new Administration to evaluate this matter — before this vital channel for Americans to communicate with their fellow citizens and the world is closed,” lawyers for the companies told the Supreme Court.

President-elect Donald Trump, who once supported a ban but then pledged during the campaign to “save TikTok,” said his administration would take a look at the situation.

“As you know, I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok,” Trump said during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. His campaign saw the platform as a way to reach younger, less politically engaged voters.

The companies have said that a shutdown lasting just a month would cause TikTok to lose about a third of its daily users in the U.S. and significant advertising revenue.

The case could attract the court's interest because it pits free speech rights against the government's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-bytedance-shou-zi-chew-8d8a6a9694357040d484670b7f4833be">stated aims of protecting national security</a>, while raising novel issues about social media platforms.

The request first goes to Chief Justice John Roberts, who oversees emergency appeals from courts in the nation's capital. He almost certainly will seek input from all nine justices.

On Friday, a panel of federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-trump-sale-bytedance-504a7b4a13184ab171415d3800017fa7">denied</a>&nbsp;an emergency plea to block the law, a procedural ruling that allowed the case to move to the Supreme Court.

The same panel had earlier&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-court-ruling-china-6bfd505295ad44126df0544fc083d6a6">unanimously upheld</a>&nbsp;the law over a First Amendment challenge claiming that it violated free speech rights.

Without a court-ordered freeze, the law would take effect Jan. 19 and expose app stores that offer TikTok and internet hosting services that support it to potential fines.

It would be up to the Justice Department to enforce the law, investigating possible violations and seeking sanctions. But lawyers for TikTok and ByteDance have argued that Trump's Justice Department might pause enforcement or otherwise seek to mitigate the law's most severe consequences. Trump takes office a day after the law goes into effect.

The Supreme Court could temporarily put the law on hold so that the justices can give fuller consideration to First Amendment and other issues. They also could quickly schedule arguments and try to render a decision by Jan. 19.

On the other hand, the high court could reject the emergency appeal, which would allow the law to take effect as scheduled.

With that last prospect in mind, the companies' lawyers asked for a ruling on their emergency request by Jan. 6 because they'd need the time “to coordinate with their service providers to perform the complex task of shutting down the TikTok platform only in the United States.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — TikTok on Monday asked the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;to step in on an emergency basis to block the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bytedance-tiktok-ban-court-trump-2f8c86057073f9412ddb7e5b3a427e0a">federal law</a>&nbsp;that would ban the popular platform in the United States unless its China-based parent company agreed to sell it.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-elect Trump on TikTok ban: &quot;We&#39;ll take a look at TikTok. I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok because I won youth by 34 points.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/NNN0edUAqe">pic.twitter.com/NNN0edUAqe</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1868699567346036762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Lawyers for the company and China-based ByteDance urged the justices to step in before the law's Jan. 19 deadline. A similar plea was expected from content creators who rely on the platform for income and some of TikTok's more than 170 million users in the U.S.“A modest delay in enforcing the Act will create breathing room for this Court to conduct an orderly review and the new Administration to evaluate this matter — before this vital channel for Americans to communicate with their fellow citizens and the world is closed,” lawyers for the companies told the Supreme Court.President-elect Donald Trump, who once supported a ban but then pledged during the campaign to “save TikTok,” said his administration would take a look at the situation.“As you know, I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok,” Trump said during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. His campaign saw the platform as a way to reach younger, less politically engaged voters.The companies have said that a shutdown lasting just a month would cause TikTok to lose about a third of its daily users in the U.S. and significant advertising revenue.The case could attract the court's interest because it pits free speech rights against the government's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-bytedance-shou-zi-chew-8d8a6a9694357040d484670b7f4833be">stated aims of protecting national security</a>, while raising novel issues about social media platforms.The request first goes to Chief Justice John Roberts, who oversees emergency appeals from courts in the nation's capital. He almost certainly will seek input from all nine justices.On Friday, a panel of federal judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-trump-sale-bytedance-504a7b4a13184ab171415d3800017fa7">denied</a>&nbsp;an emergency plea to block the law, a procedural ruling that allowed the case to move to the Supreme Court.The same panel had earlier&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-court-ruling-china-6bfd505295ad44126df0544fc083d6a6">unanimously upheld</a>&nbsp;the law over a First Amendment challenge claiming that it violated free speech rights.Without a court-ordered freeze, the law would take effect Jan. 19 and expose app stores that offer TikTok and internet hosting services that support it to potential fines.It would be up to the Justice Department to enforce the law, investigating possible violations and seeking sanctions. But lawyers for TikTok and ByteDance have argued that Trump's Justice Department might pause enforcement or otherwise seek to mitigate the law's most severe consequences. Trump takes office a day after the law goes into effect.The Supreme Court could temporarily put the law on hold so that the justices can give fuller consideration to First Amendment and other issues. They also could quickly schedule arguments and try to render a decision by Jan. 19.On the other hand, the high court could reject the emergency appeal, which would allow the law to take effect as scheduled.With that last prospect in mind, the companies' lawyers asked for a ruling on their emergency request by Jan. 6 because they'd need the time “to coordinate with their service providers to perform the complex task of shutting down the TikTok platform only in the United States.”

TikTok asks Supreme Court for emergency help to prevent US ban

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are making an impact on shoplifting and theft during the holidays.

From December 9-13,&nbsp;Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputies partnered with Liberty, Missouri Police Department officers and retailers to identify and arrest shoplifters as soon as they’d committed their crimes&nbsp; in the retail area along Missouri Route 152 in Liberty, according to a media release.

"Operation Full Cart Press" resulted in the arrests of four people, three of whom have been charged. Charges were expected on the fourth suspect. 

Combined, the suspects stole nearly $900 worth of items, and one tried to flee from arrest. Deputies and Liberty officers staged around the area last week and swooped in as soon as stores reported thefts. They also were able to recover a stolen car during the course of the operation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734458065761.png" alt="Photo Clay Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Clay Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are making an impact on shoplifting and theft during the holidays.From December 9-13,&nbsp;Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputies partnered with Liberty, Missouri Police Department officers and retailers to identify and arrest shoplifters as soon as they’d committed their crimes&nbsp; in the retail area along Missouri Route 152 in Liberty, according to a media release."Operation Full Cart Press" resulted in the arrests of four people, three of whom have been charged. Charges were expected on the fourth suspect. Combined, the suspects stole nearly $900 worth of items, and one tried to flee from arrest. Deputies and Liberty officers staged around the area last week and swooped in as soon as stores reported thefts. They also were able to recover a stolen car during the course of the operation.

Deputies catch KC area shoplifters who took $900 in merchandise

PRATT —A&nbsp; man died in a house fire in Pratt on Monday.

Just after 2:30p.m. crews were dispatched to a house fire in the 700 block of W. 3rd Street in Pratt, according to a media release. 

First responders reported a woman and her two children escaped the fire and had non-life-threatening injuries. One person was still inside the home. Firefighters from the city of Pratt were able to get the 38-year-old man out of the house. He later died of his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The State Fire Marshal's office sent two special agents to investigate. The cause of the fire was determined an accidental electrical fire.

Just after 3 p.m., crews responded to a residence in the 700 block of W. 3rd Street, according to a media release. First responders reported that a woman and&nbsp; two children were outside the residence with minor injuries. A man was still inside the home. Firefighters removed him from the residence but he later died of his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734439321224.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the deadly house fire -image courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the deadly house fire -image courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT —A&nbsp; man died in a house fire in Pratt on Monday.Just after 2:30p.m. crews were dispatched to a house fire in the 700 block of W. 3rd Street in Pratt, according to a media release. First responders reported a woman and her two children escaped the fire and had non-life-threatening injuries. One person was still inside the home. Firefighters from the city of Pratt were able to get the 38-year-old man out of the house. He later died of his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;The State Fire Marshal's office sent two special agents to investigate. The cause of the fire was determined an accidental electrical fire.--------------PRATT —A&nbsp; man died in a house fire in Pratt on Monday.Just after 3 p.m., crews responded to a residence in the 700 block of W. 3rd Street, according to a media release. First responders reported that a woman and&nbsp; two children were outside the residence with minor injuries. A man was still inside the home. Firefighters removed him from the residence but he later died of his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Fire Marshal determines cause of fatal Kansas house fire

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A large number of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6ef6cfdd5dd6508da22b3c3a1d2f6718">mysterious drones</a>&nbsp;have been reported flying over New Jersey and across the eastern U.S., sparking speculation and concern over where they came from and why.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and U.S. Sen. Andy Kim have both gone out on drone hunts, hoping for answers. The FBI, Homeland Security, state police and other agencies are investigating.

Murphy and law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-new-jersey-1bf2b36e8617d46da711dae602708be2">don’t appear to be a threat to public safety</a>, but many state and municipal lawmakers have nonetheless called for stricter rules about who can fly the unmanned aircraft — and to be allowed to shoot them out of the sky.

What's the deal with the drones in New Jersey?

Dozens of witnesses&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-sightings-central-new-jersey-cd8866c9c2568216759007716990decf">have reported seeing drones</a>&nbsp;statewide since mid-November, including near the Picatinny Arsenal, a military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.

Murphy, a Democrat, said Monday that equipment supplied by the federal government has yielded little new information. He declined to describe the equipment except to say it was powerful and could even “mitigate” the drones, though he added that’s not currently legal on U.S. soil.

The state tallied 12 sightings Saturday and just one on Sunday.

Murphy urged Congress to give states more authority to deal with the drones.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-new-jersey-8bfe84cf2678400181292b75f9193395">growing anxiety</a>&nbsp;among some residents is not lost on the Biden administration, which has faced criticism from Trump for not dealing with the matter more aggressively.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Monday said the federal government has yet to identify any public safety or national security risks from reported drone sightings in the northeast, saying officials believe they were lawfully flown drones, planes or even stars.

“There are more than 1 million drones that are lawfully registered with the Federal Aviation Administration here in the United States,” Kirby said. “And there are thousands of commercial, hobbyist and law enforcement drones that are lawfully in the sky on any given day. That is the ecosystem that we are dealing with.”

The federal government has deployed personnel and advanced technology to investigate the reports in New Jersey and other states, and is evaluating each tip reported by citizens, he said. The FBI received more than 5000 tips in recent weeks, he added, with only “about 100” deemed credible enough to require additional investigation.

The Department of Homeland Security and FBI said they have no evidence that the aircraft pose “a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.”

Speculation has nevertheless raged online, with some expressing concerns that the drones could be part of a nefarious plot by foreign agents.

Officials stress that ongoing investigations have found no evidence to support such concerns, but U.S. Rep Chris Smith, a Republican, on Saturday echoed such speculation.

“The elusive maneuvering of these drones suggests a major military power sophistication that begs the question whether they have been deployed to test our defense capabilities — or worse — by violent dictatorships, perhaps maybe Russia, or China, or Iran, or North Korea,” he said.

On Monday, Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder cast doubt on the idea that the drones are engaged in intelligence gathering, given how loud and bright they are. He said about 1 million drones are registered drones in the U.S. and about 8,000 flying on any given day.

Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh has said the aircraft are not U.S. military drones.

In Boston, city police arrested two men accused of operating a drone “dangerously close” to Logan Airport on Saturday night.

Authorities said an officer using drone monitoring technology detected the aircraft and the location of the operators. A third man fled police and remains at large.

Authorities said the two men face trespassing charges and could face more charges and fines.

Drones flying around&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/drones-mystery-new-jersey-york-b37fda04755803392178b1f39b76ccd8">Wright-Patterson Air Force Base</a>&nbsp;near Dayton, Ohio, forced base officials to close its airspace for about four hours late Friday into early Saturday, said Robert Purtiman, a base spokesperson.

It was the first time drones had been spotted at the base, one of the largest in the world, and no sightings have been reported since, Purtiman said Monday. He said the drones had no impact on any facilities on the base.

Trump has said he believes the government knows more than it’s saying.

“Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!” he posted on Truth Social. Kim said he’s heard no support for the notion the government is hiding anything. He said a lack of faith in institutions is playing a key part in the saga.

“Nothing that I’m seeing, nothing that I’ve engaged in gives me any impression of that nature. But like, I get it, some people won’t believe me, right? Because that’s the level of distrust that we face," Kim said Monday.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut last week called for the drones to be “shot down."

Rep. Smith urged the Pentagon to authorize the use of force to bring down one or more drones to try to figure out who deployed them.

The objects could be downed over the ocean or in an unpopulated area on land, Smith said Saturday.

“Why can't we bag at least one of these drones and get to the bottom of it?” Smith said.

Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden said members of the public must not try to shoot down drones, as that would violate state and federal laws.

Drone sightings were also reported in New York, where a permit is required. Mayor Eric Adams said the city was investigating and collaborating with New Jersey and federal officials.

The runways at Stewart International Airport — about 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of the city — were shut down for about an hour Friday night because of drone activity, Gov. Kathy Hochul said.

“This has gone too far,” she said in a statement.

The governor called on Congress to strengthen the FAA’s oversight of drones and give more investigative authority to state and local law enforcement.

Associated Press writers John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; Bruce Schreiner in Shelbyville, Kentucky; and Aamer Madhani in West Palm Beach, Florida, contributed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734228753383.png" alt="Image courtesy Senator Andy Kim" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Senator Andy Kim</figcaption>
 </figure>TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A large number of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6ef6cfdd5dd6508da22b3c3a1d2f6718">mysterious drones</a>&nbsp;have been reported flying over New Jersey and across the eastern U.S., sparking speculation and concern over where they came from and why.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">DHS, <a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/FAANews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FAANews</a>, and the <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofDefense</a> released the following joint statement on the ongoing response to reported drone sightings. ⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/ihGcGbjOEy">pic.twitter.com/ihGcGbjOEy</a>&mdash; Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1868853164151120317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and U.S. Sen. Andy Kim have both gone out on drone hunts, hoping for answers. The FBI, Homeland Security, state police and other agencies are investigating.Murphy and law enforcement officials have stressed that the drones&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-new-jersey-1bf2b36e8617d46da711dae602708be2">don’t appear to be a threat to public safety</a>, but many state and municipal lawmakers have nonetheless called for stricter rules about who can fly the unmanned aircraft — and to be allowed to shoot them out of the sky.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President-elect Trump on drones: &quot;They happen to be over Bedminster. They&#39;re very close to Bedminster. I think maybe I won&#39;t spend the weekend in Bedminster. I&#39;ve decided to cancel my trip.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/twHoUM2lLw">pic.twitter.com/twHoUM2lLw</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1868835001409667172?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><h2>What's the deal with the drones in New Jersey?</h2>Dozens of witnesses&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-sightings-central-new-jersey-cd8866c9c2568216759007716990decf">have reported seeing drones</a>&nbsp;statewide since mid-November, including near the Picatinny Arsenal, a military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster.Murphy, a Democrat, said Monday that equipment supplied by the federal government has yielded little new information. He declined to describe the equipment except to say it was powerful and could even “mitigate” the drones, though he added that’s not currently legal on U.S. soil.The state tallied 12 sightings Saturday and just one on Sunday.Murphy urged Congress to give states more authority to deal with the drones.<h2>Do the drones pose a threat?</h2>The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-new-jersey-8bfe84cf2678400181292b75f9193395">growing anxiety</a>&nbsp;among some residents is not lost on the Biden administration, which has faced criticism from Trump for not dealing with the matter more aggressively.White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Monday said the federal government has yet to identify any public safety or national security risks from reported drone sightings in the northeast, saying officials believe they were lawfully flown drones, planes or even stars.“There are more than 1 million drones that are lawfully registered with the Federal Aviation Administration here in the United States,” Kirby said. “And there are thousands of commercial, hobbyist and law enforcement drones that are lawfully in the sky on any given day. That is the ecosystem that we are dealing with.”The federal government has deployed personnel and advanced technology to investigate the reports in New Jersey and other states, and is evaluating each tip reported by citizens, he said. The FBI received more than 5000 tips in recent weeks, he added, with only “about 100” deemed credible enough to require additional investigation.<h2>Who is operating the drones?</h2>Authorities say they do not know.The Department of Homeland Security and FBI said they have no evidence that the aircraft pose “a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.”Speculation has nevertheless raged online, with some expressing concerns that the drones could be part of a nefarious plot by foreign agents.Officials stress that ongoing investigations have found no evidence to support such concerns, but U.S. Rep Chris Smith, a Republican, on Saturday echoed such speculation.“The elusive maneuvering of these drones suggests a major military power sophistication that begs the question whether they have been deployed to test our defense capabilities — or worse — by violent dictatorships, perhaps maybe Russia, or China, or Iran, or North Korea,” he said.On Monday, Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder cast doubt on the idea that the drones are engaged in intelligence gathering, given how loud and bright they are. He said about 1 million drones are registered drones in the U.S. and about 8,000 flying on any given day.Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh has said the aircraft are not U.S. military drones.<h2>Drone operators arrested</h2>In Boston, city police arrested two men accused of operating a drone “dangerously close” to Logan Airport on Saturday night.Authorities said an officer using drone monitoring technology detected the aircraft and the location of the operators. A third man fled police and remains at large.Authorities said the two men face trespassing charges and could face more charges and fines.<h2>Ohio Air Force base closes airspace</h2>Drones flying around&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/drones-mystery-new-jersey-york-b37fda04755803392178b1f39b76ccd8">Wright-Patterson Air Force Base</a>&nbsp;near Dayton, Ohio, forced base officials to close its airspace for about four hours late Friday into early Saturday, said Robert Purtiman, a base spokesperson.It was the first time drones had been spotted at the base, one of the largest in the world, and no sightings have been reported since, Purtiman said Monday. He said the drones had no impact on any facilities on the base.<h2>Officials urge action against the drones</h2>Trump has said he believes the government knows more than it’s saying.“Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!” he posted on Truth Social. Kim said he’s heard no support for the notion the government is hiding anything. He said a lack of faith in institutions is playing a key part in the saga.“Nothing that I’m seeing, nothing that I’ve engaged in gives me any impression of that nature. But like, I get it, some people won’t believe me, right? Because that’s the level of distrust that we face," Kim said Monday.Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut last week called for the drones to be “shot down."Rep. Smith urged the Pentagon to authorize the use of force to bring down one or more drones to try to figure out who deployed them.The objects could be downed over the ocean or in an unpopulated area on land, Smith said Saturday.“Why can't we bag at least one of these drones and get to the bottom of it?” Smith said.Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden said members of the public must not try to shoot down drones, as that would violate state and federal laws.<h2>Drones spotted over New York City</h2>Drone sightings were also reported in New York, where a permit is required. Mayor Eric Adams said the city was investigating and collaborating with New Jersey and federal officials.The runways at Stewart International Airport — about 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of the city — were shut down for about an hour Friday night because of drone activity, Gov. Kathy Hochul said.“This has gone too far,” she said in a statement.The governor called on Congress to strengthen the FAA’s oversight of drones and give more investigative authority to state and local law enforcement.___Associated Press writers John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio; Bruce Schreiner in Shelbyville, Kentucky; and Aamer Madhani in West Palm Beach, Florida, contributed.

🎥Homeland Security, FBI and Trump issue new statements on drone mystery

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating the death of a juvenile in Kansas City have identified the victim as 15-year-old&nbsp;Tacobe Kindred.

Just after 5p.m. Sunday patrol officers were dispatched to the 3300 block of Bales in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

First responders were directed to a home on the block. Inside they located a the boy suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers immediately began performing life saving measures and ordered emergency medical personnel to the scene.

 EMS transported Kindred to a local hospital where he died of his injuries.

Preliminary investigation revealed there was an argument at a birthday party that led to shots being fired and the victim ultimately being struck. Detectives canvassed the area for potential witnesses and crime scene investigators are gathered any available physical evidence.&nbsp;

Kansas City police asks anyone with information about the shooting to call police or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a $25,000 reward for information provided through the TIPS Hotline that leads to an arrest in the case.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating the death of a juvenile in Kansas City have identified the victim as 15-year-old&nbsp;Tacobe Kindred.Just after 5p.m. Sunday patrol officers were dispatched to the 3300 block of Bales in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.First responders were directed to a home on the block. Inside they located a the boy suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers immediately began performing life saving measures and ordered emergency medical personnel to the scene. EMS transported Kindred to a local hospital where he died of his injuries.Preliminary investigation revealed there was an argument at a birthday party that led to shots being fired and the victim ultimately being struck. Detectives canvassed the area for potential witnesses and crime scene investigators are gathered any available physical evidence.&nbsp;Kansas City police asks anyone with information about the shooting to call police or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a $25,000 reward for information provided through the TIPS Hotline that leads to an arrest in the case.

Police ID boy killed during birthday party at home in Kansas City 

DAMASCUS —U.S. forces conducted precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and operatives in Syria on Monday, killing 12 ISIS terrorists, according to a statement the U.S. Central Command.

The strikes against the ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps were conducted as part of the ongoing mission to disrupt, degrade, and defeat ISIS, preventing the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek opportunities to reconstitute in central Syria.

These recent strikes are in former Regime and Russian controlled areas ensuring pressure is maintained on ISIS. Battle damage assessments are underway, and there are no indications of civilian casualties.

“CENTCOM, working with allies and partners in the region, will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723583511919.png" alt="File photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —U.S. forces conducted precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and operatives in Syria on Monday, killing 12 ISIS terrorists, according to a statement the U.S. Central Command.The strikes against the ISIS leaders, operatives, and camps were conducted as part of the ongoing mission to disrupt, degrade, and defeat ISIS, preventing the terrorist group from conducting external operations and to ensure that ISIS does not seek opportunities to reconstitute in central Syria.These recent strikes are in former Regime and Russian controlled areas ensuring pressure is maintained on ISIS. Battle damage assessments are underway, and there are no indications of civilian casualties.“CENTCOM, working with allies and partners in the region, will not allow ISIS to reconstitute and take advantage of the current situation in Syria,” said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla.

U.S. conducts airstrikes against ISIS operatives in Syria

HARVEY COUNTY—&nbsp;USD 373 has concluded the internal investigation of the events that took place concerning the evacuation of a school bus on&nbsp; December 13, according to a joint statement from&nbsp;Newton USD 373 and City of Newton.

The bus driver stopped on South Kansas Avenue near SE 14th Street and asked the students to exit the bus.

Based upon the internal investigation, 37 students were onboard the bus that was evacuated due to fumes from a punctured Axe body spray aerosol can. Students were directed to stay onsite. The district says seven students returned to the bus to be taken home while the remaining students left the scene on foot. The release from the city says there were eight students. Regardless, all students made it home safely.

At that time, another bus was dispatched to assist in picking up students as well as administrators and other school personnel in personal vehicles. Transportation personnel reviewed bus video, confirmed student rosters and communicated with parents until the district was able to determine all students made it home.

USD 373 will be reaching out specifically to the families impacted by the incident regarding potential witness interviews.&nbsp;

A school resource officer made a preliminary review of the video footage from the bus on Friday, and the Police Department is now in the process of obtaining that video and audio evidence. Police are also interviewing the driver and each of the students.

“We understand parents’ frustration,” Chief Craig Dunlavy said. “We all want to know exactly what happened, but this will take some time to investigate thoroughly, especially with so many juveniles involved.

“Our primary focus on Friday was for the safety of all the kids. Now we have time to have more in-depth conversations and examination of the evidence. We’re investigating this like any other potentially criminal act.”

Some initial reports to police were that the incident took place in the Walmart parking lot because so many of the kids wound up there. Store staff helped gather them at customer service to be taken home.

“Kudos to the Walmart staff who helped round up the kids,” Dunlavy said. “That was a big help in accounting for them and getting them home sooner.

HARVEY COUNTY—&nbsp;USD 373 has concluded the internal investigation of the events that took place concerning the evacuation of a school bus on&nbsp; December 13, according to a joint statement from&nbsp;Newton USD 373 and City of Newton.The bus driver stopped on South Kansas Avenue near SE 14th Street and asked the students to exit the bus.Based upon the internal investigation, 37 students were onboard the bus that was evacuated due to fumes from a punctured Axe body spray aerosol can. Students were directed to stay onsite. The district says seven students returned to the bus to be taken home while the remaining students left the scene on foot. The release from the city says there were eight students. Regardless, all students made it home safely.At that time, another bus was dispatched to assist in picking up students as well as administrators and other school personnel in personal vehicles. Transportation personnel reviewed bus video, confirmed student rosters and communicated with parents until the district was able to determine all students made it home.USD 373 will be reaching out specifically to the families impacted by the incident regarding potential witness interviews.&nbsp;A school resource officer made a preliminary review of the video footage from the bus on Friday, and the Police Department is now in the process of obtaining that video and audio evidence. Police are also interviewing the driver and each of the students.“We understand parents’ frustration,” Chief Craig Dunlavy said. “We all want to know exactly what happened, but this will take some time to investigate thoroughly, especially with so many juveniles involved.“Our primary focus on Friday was for the safety of all the kids. Now we have time to have more in-depth conversations and examination of the evidence. We’re investigating this like any other potentially criminal act.”Some initial reports to police were that the incident took place in the Walmart parking lot because so many of the kids wound up there. Store staff helped gather them at customer service to be taken home.“Kudos to the Walmart staff who helped round up the kids,” Dunlavy said. “That was a big help in accounting for them and getting them home sooner.