HARVEY COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a house fire in Harvey County.

Just after 5a.m. Thanksgiving morning, crews&nbsp;&nbsp;responded to the fire at a home in Newton, according to a social media report from Harvey County Fire and Rescue. Crews were able to stop the fire as it was entering the home. 

The occupants were away from their home for Thanksgiving at the time of the fire.&nbsp; Three dogs were found deceased. No firefighters were injured during this incident. 

&nbsp;Mutual aid was provided by Sedgwick Fire, Walton Fire, and Whitewater Fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700833417235.png" alt="Photo Newton Fire and EMS" />
 <figcaption>Photo Newton Fire and EMS</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a house fire in Harvey County.Just after 5a.m. Thanksgiving morning, crews&nbsp;&nbsp;responded to the fire at a home in Newton, according to a social media report from Harvey County Fire and Rescue. Crews were able to stop the fire as it was entering the home. The occupants were away from their home for Thanksgiving at the time of the fire.&nbsp; Three dogs were found deceased. No firefighters were injured during this incident. &nbsp;Mutual aid was provided by Sedgwick Fire, Walton Fire, and Whitewater Fire.

Pets die in Thanksgiving Day fire at Kansas home

JEFFERSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Thursday in Jefferson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Pontiac Grand Am driven by Rebecca K. Bryant, 81,&nbsp;Oskaloosa, was southbound on U.S 59 just north 118th Street.

The car traveled left of center and struck a northbound 2005 Hyundai Sonata driven by Jesse M.&nbsp; Breshears, 33, McLouth, head-on.

Bryant was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Barnett Funeral Home.&nbsp; EMS transported Breshears to KU Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

JEFFERSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Thursday in Jefferson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Pontiac Grand Am driven by Rebecca K. Bryant, 81,&nbsp;Oskaloosa, was southbound on U.S 59 just north 118th Street.The car traveled left of center and struck a northbound 2005 Hyundai Sonata driven by Jesse M.&nbsp; Breshears, 33, McLouth, head-on.Bryant was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Barnett Funeral Home.&nbsp; EMS transported Breshears to KU Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dead, man hospitalized after head-on crash

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have a boy in custody.

Just before 4p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a reported shooting in the 8100 Block of Perry Street in Overland Park, according to a media release.

First responders discovered a boy who had been shot. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators learned the victim was threatened with a firearm by another boy who shot him.

Police identified the suspect, located him and took him into custody.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have a boy in custody.Just before 4p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a reported shooting in the 8100 Block of Perry Street in Overland Park, according to a media release.First responders discovered a boy who had been shot. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.Investigators learned the victim was threatened with a firearm by another boy who shot him.Police identified the suspect, located him and took him into custody.

Police: Juvenile accused of shooting boy at Kansas home

WASHINGTON (AP) — A major Iranian-backed militant group in Iraq warned it may strike additional U.S. targets after U.S. warplanes killed multiple militants in response to the first use of short-range ballistic missiles against U.S. forces at Al-Asad Air Base Monday and shot down drones over the Red Sea.

U.S. fighter jets struck a Kataib Hezbollah operations center and a Kataib Hezbollah command and control node near Al Anbar and Jurf al Saqr, south of Baghdad, on Tuesday, two defense officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity to provide additional sensitive details of the attacks.

There were Kataib Hezbollah personnel at both sites at the time of the strikes, but the officials said they could not yet confirm whether anyone there was killed.

Militia officials in Iraq said the attack had killed eight Kataib Hezbollah members.

The U.S. airstrikes followed an earlier retaliatory strike by an AC-130 gunship that was in the air when the Iranian-backed militants fired two short-range ballistic missiles at Al-Asad Air Base in Iraq late Monday evening. The gunship was able to locate the origin of the missiles, and fired on several militants who had fled in a vehicle, killing several of them.

Kataib Hezbollah in a statement meanwhile said it was considering “expanding the scope of targets” if the U.S. military continues with its strikes, adding that the attack “will not go unpunished”.

The dangerous back-and-forth strikes have escalated since Iranian-backed militant groups under the umbrella group called the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and Syria began striking U.S. facilities Oct. 17, the date that a blast at a hospital in Gaza killed hundreds. The attacks have continued unabated since, with at least 66 rocket and missile attacks hitting U.S. facilities and wounding at least 62 service members.

The Monday attack stood out in that it was the first time militants had used ballistic missiles, and the U.S. response inside Iraq was immediate.

It was also noteworthy because the previous planned counterattacks by U.S. warplanes had focused on militant weapons caches and training centers in Syria, due to political sensitivities in Iraq.

The office of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who rose to power through the backing of an Iran-backed political coalition, called the recent escalations “a dangerous development," reflecting the delicate balance the government must strike between Iranian factions and U.S. military presence.

In a statement, Sudani called the the U.S. attack a violation of the country’s sovereignty and of the U.S.-led coalition’s mission to combat Islamic State militants on Iraqi soil, given that the attack was done without giving Iraq notice. Over the past month however, the Iraqi premier has also called for the authorities to pursue the attackers of U.S. bases in Iraq, as he tries to maintain a delicate balance in maintaining positive ties with both Washington and Tehran.

On Tuesday evening, U.S. officials speaking on background said the U.S. is trying to communicate that it does not seek wider conflict, but that the Iran-backed attacks against American forces must stop and that the U.S. will take further action if needed. The U.S. has moved considerable assets to the region — two carrier groups, multiple squadrons of warplanes and U.S. personnel to try and dissuade factions from turning the crisis between Israel and Hamas into a regional war.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A major Iranian-backed militant group in Iraq warned it may strike additional U.S. targets after U.S. warplanes killed multiple militants in response to the first use of short-range ballistic missiles against U.S. forces at Al-Asad Air Base Monday and shot down drones over the Red Sea.U.S. fighter jets struck a Kataib Hezbollah operations center and a Kataib Hezbollah command and control node near Al Anbar and Jurf al Saqr, south of Baghdad, on Tuesday, two defense officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity to provide additional sensitive details of the attacks.There were Kataib Hezbollah personnel at both sites at the time of the strikes, but the officials said they could not yet confirm whether anyone there was killed.Militia officials in Iraq said the attack had killed eight Kataib Hezbollah members.The U.S. airstrikes followed an earlier retaliatory strike by an AC-130 gunship that was in the air when the Iranian-backed militants fired two short-range ballistic missiles at Al-Asad Air Base in Iraq late Monday evening. The gunship was able to locate the origin of the missiles, and fired on several militants who had fled in a vehicle, killing several of them.Kataib Hezbollah in a statement meanwhile said it was considering “expanding the scope of targets” if the U.S. military continues with its strikes, adding that the attack “will not go unpunished”.The dangerous back-and-forth strikes have escalated since Iranian-backed militant groups under the umbrella group called the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and Syria began striking U.S. facilities Oct. 17, the date that a blast at a hospital in Gaza killed hundreds. The attacks have continued unabated since, with at least 66 rocket and missile attacks hitting U.S. facilities and wounding at least 62 service members.The Monday attack stood out in that it was the first time militants had used ballistic missiles, and the U.S. response inside Iraq was immediate.It was also noteworthy because the previous planned counterattacks by U.S. warplanes had focused on militant weapons caches and training centers in Syria, due to political sensitivities in Iraq.The office of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who rose to power through the backing of an Iran-backed political coalition, called the recent escalations “a dangerous development," reflecting the delicate balance the government must strike between Iranian factions and U.S. military presence.In a statement, Sudani called the the U.S. attack a violation of the country’s sovereignty and of the U.S.-led coalition’s mission to combat Islamic State militants on Iraqi soil, given that the attack was done without giving Iraq notice. Over the past month however, the Iraqi premier has also called for the authorities to pursue the attackers of U.S. bases in Iraq, as he tries to maintain a delicate balance in maintaining positive ties with both Washington and Tehran.On Tuesday evening, U.S. officials speaking on background said the U.S. is trying to communicate that it does not seek wider conflict, but that the Iran-backed attacks against American forces must stop and that the U.S. will take further action if needed. The U.S. has moved considerable assets to the region — two carrier groups, multiple squadrons of warplanes and U.S. personnel to try and dissuade factions from turning the crisis between Israel and Hamas into a regional war.

Iranian-backed terrorists issue threat if U.S. airstrikes continue

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly stabbing and after asking for help have taken a suspect identified as 34-year-old Anthony Durking into custody.

Just before 4:30p.m. Nov. 12, a citizen transported a man to&nbsp; Fire Station #3 in Independence, Missouri, with apparent stab wounds, for medical treatment, according to a media release.

 As fire department personnel were rendering aid to the individual, he died of his injuries. 

 During the investigation, it was determined that the stabbing occurred in the area of Truman Road and Hardy Avenue, according to online jail records, Durkin is being held without bond in the Johnson County, Missouri jail.

Police had described him as having a tattoo “RESPETO” on the right side of his neck and tattoo&nbsp;“Scooby Doo”  on his right arm. Durkin in homeless, according to police. Authorities have not reported possible charges he will face.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700791850458.png" alt="Durking-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Durking-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly stabbing and after asking for help have taken a suspect identified as 34-year-old Anthony Durking into custody.Just before 4:30p.m. Nov. 12, a citizen transported a man to&nbsp; Fire Station #3 in Independence, Missouri, with apparent stab wounds, for medical treatment, according to a media release. As fire department personnel were rendering aid to the individual, he died of his injuries. During the investigation, it was determined that the stabbing occurred in the area of Truman Road and Hardy Avenue, according to online jail records, Durkin is being held without bond in the Johnson County, Missouri jail.Police had described him as having a tattoo “RESPETO” on the right side of his neck and tattoo&nbsp;“Scooby Doo” on his right arm. Durkin in homeless, according to police. Authorities have not reported possible charges he will face.

Police captured wanted murder suspect with “Scooby Doo” tattoo 

By&nbsp;RACHEL MIPRO&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Bureau of Investigation released amended crime statistics after discovering its original report wasn’t accurate.

The agency said a system error caused thousands of offenses to go uncounted.

“When we recognized how many offenses weren’t represented in the annual crime report, we knew we had a responsibility to let the public, the Legislature and our law enforcement partners know that what we understood about crime in Kansas had changed,” said KBI director Tony Mattivi.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.gov/kbi/stats/stats_crime.shtml">amended report</a>&nbsp;for 2022 crimes was released Nov. 16. Mattivi said one trend that had changed from the new data was violent crime. The June report documented a slight decrease in violent crime statewide, but new data suggests there was actually a small increase in violent crime in 2022, up by 2.9% from the previous year.

The data used in the annual crime report comes from local law enforcement agencies across Kansas. Agencies submit reports into the Kansas Incident Based Reporting System, a system described as outdated and one with “severe constraints,” according to KBI officials. The bureau is working to complete a new statewide crime information database system.

The Wichita Police Department alerted the KBI to mistakes in the report when they reviewed their crime data in the June report.

“Upon reviewing the crime data released by the KBI, the Wichita Police Department promptly alerted KBI to the inaccuracies. Collaborating with KBI, we pinpointed the issue and rectified it,” said Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan. “Furthermore, we implemented extra checks in coordination with KBI to ensure that submitted data undergoes thorough end-to-end verification upon receipt.”

The KIBRS unit opened up 2022 submissions again, receiving 4,979 more reports from agencies that had additional crimes reported for 2022 after the deadline along with reports that hadn’t been submitted before the original deadline.

The revised data shows a total of 13,808 violent crimes, such as aggravated assault and battery, reported in Kansas in 2022.&nbsp; In 2021, 13,422 violent crimes were reported by law enforcement.

The change brings violent crime in 2022 up to 17.5% higher than the 10-year average. Reported property crimes declined by 4.1% in the year, with 65,119 reported property crimes. In 2021, there were 67,928 property crimes reported in the state.

KBI spokeswoman Melissa Underwood said the KBI has no plans to amend the agency’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.gov/kbi/stats/docs/pdf/DVStalking%20Rape%202022.pdf">annual state report</a>&nbsp;on domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault, despite a change in these numbers as well.&nbsp;The first report for 2022 documented 1,160 reported rapes in the state. The amended report put the number at 1,281.

Underwood said the domestic violence report didn’t need to be amended because the additional offenses were already included in the amended crime report. She said the two reports are difficult to reconcile because the assault report documents incidents and the crime report documents victims.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700582241832.png" alt=" KBI director Tony Mattivi says offenses that weren't included in a previous report need to be publicized. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> KBI director Tony Mattivi says offenses that weren't included in a previous report need to be publicized. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;RACHEL MIPRO&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Bureau of Investigation released amended crime statistics after discovering its original report wasn’t accurate.The agency said a system error caused thousands of offenses to go uncounted.“When we recognized how many offenses weren’t represented in the annual crime report, we knew we had a responsibility to let the public, the Legislature and our law enforcement partners know that what we understood about crime in Kansas had changed,” said KBI director Tony Mattivi.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.gov/kbi/stats/stats_crime.shtml">amended report</a>&nbsp;for 2022 crimes was released Nov. 16. Mattivi said one trend that had changed from the new data was violent crime. The June report documented a slight decrease in violent crime statewide, but new data suggests there was actually a small increase in violent crime in 2022, up by 2.9% from the previous year.The data used in the annual crime report comes from local law enforcement agencies across Kansas. Agencies submit reports into the Kansas Incident Based Reporting System, a system described as outdated and one with “severe constraints,” according to KBI officials. The bureau is working to complete a new statewide crime information database system.The Wichita Police Department alerted the KBI to mistakes in the report when they reviewed their crime data in the June report.“Upon reviewing the crime data released by the KBI, the Wichita Police Department promptly alerted KBI to the inaccuracies. Collaborating with KBI, we pinpointed the issue and rectified it,” said Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan. “Furthermore, we implemented extra checks in coordination with KBI to ensure that submitted data undergoes thorough end-to-end verification upon receipt.”The KIBRS unit opened up 2022 submissions again, receiving 4,979 more reports from agencies that had additional crimes reported for 2022 after the deadline along with reports that hadn’t been submitted before the original deadline.The revised data shows a total of 13,808 violent crimes, such as aggravated assault and battery, reported in Kansas in 2022.&nbsp; In 2021, 13,422 violent crimes were reported by law enforcement.The change brings violent crime in 2022 up to 17.5% higher than the 10-year average. Reported property crimes declined by 4.1% in the year, with 65,119 reported property crimes. In 2021, there were 67,928 property crimes reported in the state.KBI spokeswoman Melissa Underwood said the KBI has no plans to amend the agency’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.gov/kbi/stats/docs/pdf/DVStalking%20Rape%202022.pdf">annual state report</a>&nbsp;on domestic violence, stalking and sexual assault, despite a change in these numbers as well.&nbsp;The first report for 2022 documented 1,160 reported rapes in the state. The amended report put the number at 1,281.Underwood said the domestic violence report didn’t need to be amended because the additional offenses were already included in the amended crime report. She said the two reports are difficult to reconcile because the assault report documents incidents and the crime report documents victims.

KBI revised Kan. crime report for 2022, adds more than 4K new offenses

WICHITA– Thanks to quick thinking by a visitor and actions by Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center staff, a Veteran and his family will celebrate at least one more holiday season together.

On Nov. 17, Cathy Tullis came to Dole VA to pick up a family member who had been in the hospital. As she pulled up, she noticed a person lying face down near the parking lot. She jumped out of her car to check on the man. Finding him unresponsive, she immediately ran inside the building and notified a staff member.

Kristine Davis, Transportation Assistant, was that employee. Davis asked her co-worker to call the VA Police Department and then immediately went outside with Tullis to assess the situation.

“When we got to the gentleman, he was still lying face down,” said Davis. “A couple nurses from our Quality Management department happened to see us and came to help.”

The unresponsive man was turned onto his back and a quick assessment was performed, revealing the man wasn’t breathing and had no pulse. They immediately started CPR using chest compressions and continued until the hospital’s rapid response team arrived. A short time later, the man responded with a pulse and began breathing again.

Sedgwick County EMS and the Wichita Fire Department responded and helped move the patient to the Dole VA Emergency Room, where he was further stabilized before being transferred to another facility. ER staff noted the patient was awake and talking prior to transfer, a good sign after having gone through cardiac arrest.

Tullis was impressed with how calm and professional the staff were that day. “I know I saw a life saved that day,” said Tullis. “The staff were so calm, cool, and collected – it was very impressive.”

“We are very proud of the heroic actions taken by our staff last week,” said Medical Center Director Michael Payne. “We get high marks and ratings for the care we provide to our Veterans, but nothing says ‘we care’ like rushing into the parking lot to save a person’s life.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700706790724.png" alt="(L-R) RN Lacey Vogts, Transportation Specialist Kristine Davis, and RN Jessica Raub quickly responded to a call for assistance in the parking lot of Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center on Friday, Nov. 17. The three Dole VA staff members worked together to perform CPR and save the life of a Veteran who had gone into cardiac arrest and collapsed in the parking lot." />
 <figcaption>(L-R) RN Lacey Vogts, Transportation Specialist Kristine Davis, and RN Jessica Raub quickly responded to a call for assistance in the parking lot of Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center on Friday, Nov. 17. The three Dole VA staff members worked together to perform CPR and save the life of a Veteran who had gone into cardiac arrest and collapsed in the parking lot.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Jeff HerndonWICHITA– Thanks to quick thinking by a visitor and actions by Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center staff, a Veteran and his family will celebrate at least one more holiday season together.On Nov. 17, Cathy Tullis came to Dole VA to pick up a family member who had been in the hospital. As she pulled up, she noticed a person lying face down near the parking lot. She jumped out of her car to check on the man. Finding him unresponsive, she immediately ran inside the building and notified a staff member.Kristine Davis, Transportation Assistant, was that employee. Davis asked her co-worker to call the VA Police Department and then immediately went outside with Tullis to assess the situation.“When we got to the gentleman, he was still lying face down,” said Davis. “A couple nurses from our Quality Management department happened to see us and came to help.”The unresponsive man was turned onto his back and a quick assessment was performed, revealing the man wasn’t breathing and had no pulse. They immediately started CPR using chest compressions and continued until the hospital’s rapid response team arrived. A short time later, the man responded with a pulse and began breathing again.Sedgwick County EMS and the Wichita Fire Department responded and helped move the patient to the Dole VA Emergency Room, where he was further stabilized before being transferred to another facility. ER staff noted the patient was awake and talking prior to transfer, a good sign after having gone through cardiac arrest.Tullis was impressed with how calm and professional the staff were that day. “I know I saw a life saved that day,” said Tullis. “The staff were so calm, cool, and collected – it was very impressive.”“We are very proud of the heroic actions taken by our staff last week,” said Medical Center Director Michael Payne. “We get high marks and ratings for the care we provide to our Veterans, but nothing says ‘we care’ like rushing into the parking lot to save a person’s life.”

Thankful: Dole VA staff worked together to save visitor's life

NEW YORK (AP) — Retailers are kicking off the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season on Friday with a bevy of discounts and other enticements. But executives are growing concerned with a spending slowdown that could temper sales on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/black-friday-2023-history-holiday-shopping-308658520bbbeaaff41540078f616ca2">the day after Thanksgiving</a>&nbsp;as well as throughout the holidays.

Shoppers, powered by a solid job market and steady wage growth, had demonstrated a resilience that confounded economists and ran counter to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.conference-board.org/topics/consumer-confidence">sour sentiments</a>&nbsp;expressed in opinion polls. Such spending, while cautious, came despite higher prices in the grocery aisle and higher borrowing costs.

But consumers are now coming under more pressure from dwindling savings, increased credit card debt and still stubborn inflation. In fact, shoppers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/retail-sales-inflation-economy-spending-ad844bf1aae175204dd1e68d45ebd382">cut their buying in October</a>, ending six straight months of gains. Shoppers have gotten some relief from easing inflation, but many goods and services like meat and rent are still far higher than they were just three years ago.

The latest quarterly results from a string of retailers from Walmart to Best Buy have reported a weakening consumer. Walmart said it noticed shoppers cutting back in October and offered a muted annual sales outlook. Best Buy, the nation’s largest retailer, said shoppers are trading down to cheaper TVs. And Target said shoppers are waiting longer to buy items. For example, instead of buying sweatshirts or denim back in August or September, they held out until the weather turned cold.

“It’s clear that consumers have been remarkably resilient,” Target's CEO Brian Cornell told analysts last week. “Yet in our research, things like uncertainty, caution and managing a budget are top of mind.”

Even luxury retailers are noting their shoppers are feeling pinched.

"We’re taking a measured approach. There’s been some softening,” said Marc Metrick, CEO of Saks Fifth Avenue’s standalone online business, Saks. “I don’t think (the holiday season) is going to be some horrible business nor is it going to be some kind of explosive holiday season.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-retail-federation-holiday-season-inflation-15eea87804a392cc13c352fd58ff6347">National Retail Federation</a>, the nation’s largest retail trade group, expects shoppers will spend more this year than last year, but their pace will slow given all the economic uncertainty.

The group has forecast that U.S. holiday sales will rise 3% to 4% for November through December, compared with a 5.4% growth of a year ago. The pace is consistent with the average annual holiday increase of 3.6% from 2010 to pre-pandemic 2019. Americans ramped up spending during the pandemic, with more money in their pockets from federal relief checks and nowhere to go during lockdowns. For the holiday 2021 season, sales for the two-month period surged 12.7%.

Many retailers had already ordered fewer goods for this holiday season and have pushed holiday sales earlier in October than last year to help shoppers spread out their spending. An early shopping push appears to be a trend that only got more pronounced during the pandemic when clogs in the supply network in 2021 made people buy early for fear of not getting what they wanted.

But retailers said that many shoppers will be focusing more on deals and will likely wait until the last minute. Best Buy said it's pushing more items at opening price points, while Kohl's has simplified its deals, promoting items under a certain price point like $25 at its stores.

Barbara Lindquist, 85, from Hawthorne Woods, Illinois, said she and her husband plan to spend about $1,000 for holiday gifts for her three adult children, 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. That's about the same as last year.

But Lindquist, who continues to work as a pre-school teacher at a local church, said she’ll be more focused on deals given still high prices on meat and other staples. And she plans to buy more gift cards, which she believes will help her stick to her budget.

“I go for value,” said Lindquist, who just picked up discounted sheets and towels at Kohl's for friends who will be visiting from Panama during the holidays.

Online discounts should be better than a year ago, particularly for toys, electronics and clothing, according to Adobe Analytics, which tracks online spending. It predicts toys will be discounted on average by 35%, compared with 22% a year ago, while electronics should see 30% cuts, compared with last year's 27%. In clothing, shoppers will see an average discount of 25%, compared with 19% last year, Adobe said.

Analysts consider the five-day Black Friday weekend — which includes the Monday after the holiday known as Cyber Monday — a key barometer of shoppers’ willingness to spend. And Black Friday is expected to be once again the busiest shopping day of the year, according to Sensormatic Solutions, a firm that tracks store traffic. On average, the top 10 busiest shopping days in the U.S are expected to once again account for roughly 40% of all holiday retail traffic, Sensormatic said.

Stores have been increasingly pushing Black Friday-type deals all month, helping to perk up business.

Adobe Analytics reported that from Nov. 1 through Monday, consumers spent $63.2 billion online, up 5% compared with the year-ago period and outpacing its estimate of 4.8% for the two-month holiday period.

However, Marshal Cohen, chief retail adviser at Circana, a market research firm, said he thinks that shoppers will just stick to a list and not buy on impulse. He also believes they will take their time buying throughout the season.

NEW YORK (AP) — Retailers are kicking off the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season on Friday with a bevy of discounts and other enticements. But executives are growing concerned with a spending slowdown that could temper sales on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/black-friday-2023-history-holiday-shopping-308658520bbbeaaff41540078f616ca2">the day after Thanksgiving</a>&nbsp;as well as throughout the holidays.Shoppers, powered by a solid job market and steady wage growth, had demonstrated a resilience that confounded economists and ran counter to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.conference-board.org/topics/consumer-confidence">sour sentiments</a>&nbsp;expressed in opinion polls. Such spending, while cautious, came despite higher prices in the grocery aisle and higher borrowing costs.But consumers are now coming under more pressure from dwindling savings, increased credit card debt and still stubborn inflation. In fact, shoppers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/retail-sales-inflation-economy-spending-ad844bf1aae175204dd1e68d45ebd382">cut their buying in October</a>, ending six straight months of gains. Shoppers have gotten some relief from easing inflation, but many goods and services like meat and rent are still far higher than they were just three years ago.The latest quarterly results from a string of retailers from Walmart to Best Buy have reported a weakening consumer. Walmart said it noticed shoppers cutting back in October and offered a muted annual sales outlook. Best Buy, the nation’s largest retailer, said shoppers are trading down to cheaper TVs. And Target said shoppers are waiting longer to buy items. For example, instead of buying sweatshirts or denim back in August or September, they held out until the weather turned cold.“It’s clear that consumers have been remarkably resilient,” Target's CEO Brian Cornell told analysts last week. “Yet in our research, things like uncertainty, caution and managing a budget are top of mind.”Even luxury retailers are noting their shoppers are feeling pinched."We’re taking a measured approach. There’s been some softening,” said Marc Metrick, CEO of Saks Fifth Avenue’s standalone online business, Saks. “I don’t think (the holiday season) is going to be some horrible business nor is it going to be some kind of explosive holiday season.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-retail-federation-holiday-season-inflation-15eea87804a392cc13c352fd58ff6347">National Retail Federation</a>, the nation’s largest retail trade group, expects shoppers will spend more this year than last year, but their pace will slow given all the economic uncertainty.The group has forecast that U.S. holiday sales will rise 3% to 4% for November through December, compared with a 5.4% growth of a year ago. The pace is consistent with the average annual holiday increase of 3.6% from 2010 to pre-pandemic 2019. Americans ramped up spending during the pandemic, with more money in their pockets from federal relief checks and nowhere to go during lockdowns. For the holiday 2021 season, sales for the two-month period surged 12.7%.Many retailers had already ordered fewer goods for this holiday season and have pushed holiday sales earlier in October than last year to help shoppers spread out their spending. An early shopping push appears to be a trend that only got more pronounced during the pandemic when clogs in the supply network in 2021 made people buy early for fear of not getting what they wanted.But retailers said that many shoppers will be focusing more on deals and will likely wait until the last minute. Best Buy said it's pushing more items at opening price points, while Kohl's has simplified its deals, promoting items under a certain price point like $25 at its stores.Barbara Lindquist, 85, from Hawthorne Woods, Illinois, said she and her husband plan to spend about $1,000 for holiday gifts for her three adult children, 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. That's about the same as last year.But Lindquist, who continues to work as a pre-school teacher at a local church, said she’ll be more focused on deals given still high prices on meat and other staples. And she plans to buy more gift cards, which she believes will help her stick to her budget.“I go for value,” said Lindquist, who just picked up discounted sheets and towels at Kohl's for friends who will be visiting from Panama during the holidays.Online discounts should be better than a year ago, particularly for toys, electronics and clothing, according to Adobe Analytics, which tracks online spending. It predicts toys will be discounted on average by 35%, compared with 22% a year ago, while electronics should see 30% cuts, compared with last year's 27%. In clothing, shoppers will see an average discount of 25%, compared with 19% last year, Adobe said.Analysts consider the five-day Black Friday weekend — which includes the Monday after the holiday known as Cyber Monday — a key barometer of shoppers’ willingness to spend. And Black Friday is expected to be once again the busiest shopping day of the year, according to Sensormatic Solutions, a firm that tracks store traffic. On average, the top 10 busiest shopping days in the U.S are expected to once again account for roughly 40% of all holiday retail traffic, Sensormatic said.Stores have been increasingly pushing Black Friday-type deals all month, helping to perk up business.Adobe Analytics reported that from Nov. 1 through Monday, consumers spent $63.2 billion online, up 5% compared with the year-ago period and outpacing its estimate of 4.8% for the two-month holiday period.However, Marshal Cohen, chief retail adviser at Circana, a market research firm, said he thinks that shoppers will just stick to a list and not buy on impulse. He also believes they will take their time buying throughout the season.

Retailers ready for Black Friday as shoppers pull back on spending

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting that injured a 9-year-old boy have made an additional arrest of the suspect's father.

On Monday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division served a search warrant in the 1100 Block SW Glendale Drive in Topeka related to the search for 16-yeard-old Anthony Guerrero III, a subject wanted for questioning in the shooting that injured a child at a home&nbsp; November 19, in the 6700 Block SW Greencastle Drive, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.

During the investigation, illegal narcotics and firearms were located in the home.

On Tuesday, police arrested 38-year-old Anthony Guerrero II, father of Anthony Guerrero III, and booked in to the Shawnee County Department of Correction (SNDOC) for criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, criminal use of weapons, and possession of cocaine.

This incident and the shooting incident are still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office at (785)251-2200.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; a&nbsp; shooting that sent a child to the hospital have a suspect in custody.

On Monday police asked for help to locate 16-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Anthony Rocky Guerrero III for the Sunday evening gunfire near the 6700 Block of SW Greencastle Drive in Topeka, according to Sheriff's Lieutenant Scott Wanamaker.&nbsp;

A 9-year-old&nbsp; had been struck by the gunfire. He was inside a home and was struck in his left leg. EMS transported the boy to a local hospital for treatment. There were 3 adults and 5 juveniles in the home at the time of the shooting, according to Wanamaker.

After shooting at the residence the two suspects fled the area on foot, entered a silver passenger car in the 6800 Block SW Rockpost Road and fled the scene.&nbsp; &nbsp;Guerrero turned himself in and was booked into the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm at an occupied dwelling and Felony Criminal Damage to Property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700667139206.png" alt="Guerrero II-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Guerrero II-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting that injured a 9-year-old boy have made an additional arrest of the suspect's father.On Monday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division served a search warrant in the 1100 Block SW Glendale Drive in Topeka related to the search for 16-yeard-old Anthony Guerrero III, a subject wanted for questioning in the shooting that injured a child at a home&nbsp; November 19, in the 6700 Block SW Greencastle Drive, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.During the investigation, illegal narcotics and firearms were located in the home.On Tuesday, police arrested 38-year-old Anthony Guerrero II, father of Anthony Guerrero III, and booked in to the Shawnee County Department of Correction (SNDOC) for criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, criminal use of weapons, and possession of cocaine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700520416350.png" alt="Guerrero III photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Guerrero III photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>This incident and the shooting incident are still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office at (785)251-2200.--------------SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; a&nbsp; shooting that sent a child to the hospital have a suspect in custody.On Monday police asked for help to locate 16-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Anthony Rocky Guerrero III for the Sunday evening gunfire near the 6700 Block of SW Greencastle Drive in Topeka, according to Sheriff's Lieutenant Scott Wanamaker.&nbsp;A 9-year-old&nbsp; had been struck by the gunfire. He was inside a home and was struck in his left leg. EMS transported the boy to a local hospital for treatment. There were 3 adults and 5 juveniles in the home at the time of the shooting, according to Wanamaker.After shooting at the residence the two suspects fled the area on foot, entered a silver passenger car in the 6800 Block SW Rockpost Road and fled the scene.&nbsp; &nbsp;Guerrero turned himself in and was booked into the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm at an occupied dwelling and Felony Criminal Damage to Property.

Police arrest father of Kansas teen shooting suspect 

NEW YORK (AP) — It’s the season of giving thanks — and it turns out humans have been doing it for a long, long time.

As more researchers dig into the science of gratitude, they've found the feeling likely played a key role in helping our ancestors band together and survive.

That legacy continues today, as being in the mood for gratitude shapes who we are as a species and how we connect with the people around us.

“This is something that is part of our human DNA,” said Sarah Schnitker, a psychologist at Baylor University. “It is a glue, in a sense, that holds us together.”

Humans are social animals. That’s how we've lasted so long; not by being the biggest or the strongest, but by figuring out how to work together.

A key part of building relationships is the idea of reciprocity: “If you like me and do nice things for me, then I like you and do nice things for you,” said Michael Tomasello, a developmental psychologist at Duke University.

The animal kingdom has some parallel give-and-take behaviors, said Malini Suchak, an animal behavior researcher at Canisius University. In experiments with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1213173109">capuchin monkeys</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://peerj.com/articles/417/">chimpanzees</a>, Suchak found the primates became more willing to help out a partner if that individual had helped them in the past.

Some scientists think the feeling of gratitude evolved to keep the helping exchanges going. In other words, if you were helped, you’d feel like you should repay the debt with a good deed in return, said Jenae Nelson, who researches gratitude at Baylor and Harvard universities.

“This give and take — this is very, very primal and very important to a cooperative society,” Nelson said. “Otherwise, you just get a culture of takers.”

In animals and in humans, these aren’t always one-to-one transactions. Sometimes, an ape that gets groomed by another will later back that partner up in a fight, Suchak said, showing that reciprocity might not be about keeping exact scores, but forming broader emotional ties.

Though we can’t “speak chimp” well enough to know if they’re actually saying thanks, Suchak added, it makes sense that some form of this social debt showed up early in our lineage.

“It didn’t just pop out of nowhere when humans evolved," Suchak said.

Thousands of years later, gratitude has taken root in humans.

Studies have found gratitude may show up in a few spots in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4249462/#:~:text=Specifically%2C%20after%20receiving%20an%20expression,was%20responsive%20as%20well%20as">genes</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/cercor/article/19/2/276/340011">brains</a>&nbsp;— including ones linked to social bonding, feeling reward and seeing other people’s point of view.

And the feeling emerges early on: Children as young as 2 and 3 demonstrate they want to return favors, said Amrisha Vaish, who studies moral development at the University of Virginia. At age 4, children also show a tendency to “pay it forward,” she added.

<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31951927/">In a study</a>, Vaish found that when kids got help completing a task — in this case, finding a key to unlock a box of stickers — they were more likely to share their sticker reward with a new person.

It's that kind of behavior that shows gratitude is more than simple exchange, Schnitker said. It can make us more generous with other people in general — even if they didn't help us first.

Giving thanks might be good for you, too:&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26746580/">A 2016 study</a>&nbsp;found that people who wrote letters of gratitude reported better mental health and saw changes in their brain activity — even months down the line.

But Nelson pointed out that recognizing the giver, not just the gift, is key.

So, if Thanksgiving has you in a mood for gratitude, she suggested focusing on thanking the people in your life, rather than just making “gratitude lists” of the stuff you have. This is more in line with why the feeling evolved in the first place, she said.

“It’s not just about stuff and materialism,” Nelson said. “It’s about relationships, and the things that people do for you, and then the things that you can in turn do back for other people.”

NEW YORK (AP) — It’s the season of giving thanks — and it turns out humans have been doing it for a long, long time.As more researchers dig into the science of gratitude, they've found the feeling likely played a key role in helping our ancestors band together and survive.That legacy continues today, as being in the mood for gratitude shapes who we are as a species and how we connect with the people around us.“This is something that is part of our human DNA,” said Sarah Schnitker, a psychologist at Baylor University. “It is a glue, in a sense, that holds us together.”How we got gratefulHumans are social animals. That’s how we've lasted so long; not by being the biggest or the strongest, but by figuring out how to work together.A key part of building relationships is the idea of reciprocity: “If you like me and do nice things for me, then I like you and do nice things for you,” said Michael Tomasello, a developmental psychologist at Duke University.The animal kingdom has some parallel give-and-take behaviors, said Malini Suchak, an animal behavior researcher at Canisius University. In experiments with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1213173109">capuchin monkeys</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://peerj.com/articles/417/">chimpanzees</a>, Suchak found the primates became more willing to help out a partner if that individual had helped them in the past.Some scientists think the feeling of gratitude evolved to keep the helping exchanges going. In other words, if you were helped, you’d feel like you should repay the debt with a good deed in return, said Jenae Nelson, who researches gratitude at Baylor and Harvard universities.“This give and take — this is very, very primal and very important to a cooperative society,” Nelson said. “Otherwise, you just get a culture of takers.”In animals and in humans, these aren’t always one-to-one transactions. Sometimes, an ape that gets groomed by another will later back that partner up in a fight, Suchak said, showing that reciprocity might not be about keeping exact scores, but forming broader emotional ties.Though we can’t “speak chimp” well enough to know if they’re actually saying thanks, Suchak added, it makes sense that some form of this social debt showed up early in our lineage.“It didn’t just pop out of nowhere when humans evolved," Suchak said.And how we stayed gratefulThousands of years later, gratitude has taken root in humans.Studies have found gratitude may show up in a few spots in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4249462/#:~:text=Specifically%2C%20after%20receiving%20an%20expression,was%20responsive%20as%20well%20as">genes</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/cercor/article/19/2/276/340011">brains</a>&nbsp;— including ones linked to social bonding, feeling reward and seeing other people’s point of view.And the feeling emerges early on: Children as young as 2 and 3 demonstrate they want to return favors, said Amrisha Vaish, who studies moral development at the University of Virginia. At age 4, children also show a tendency to “pay it forward,” she added.<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31951927/">In a study</a>, Vaish found that when kids got help completing a task — in this case, finding a key to unlock a box of stickers — they were more likely to share their sticker reward with a new person.It's that kind of behavior that shows gratitude is more than simple exchange, Schnitker said. It can make us more generous with other people in general — even if they didn't help us first.Giving thanks might be good for you, too:&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26746580/">A 2016 study</a>&nbsp;found that people who wrote letters of gratitude reported better mental health and saw changes in their brain activity — even months down the line.But Nelson pointed out that recognizing the giver, not just the gift, is key.So, if Thanksgiving has you in a mood for gratitude, she suggested focusing on thanking the people in your life, rather than just making “gratitude lists” of the stuff you have. This is more in line with why the feeling evolved in the first place, she said.“It’s not just about stuff and materialism,” Nelson said. “It’s about relationships, and the things that people do for you, and then the things that you can in turn do back for other people.”

Giving thanks isn't just a holiday tradition. It's part of how humans evolved

JERUSALEM —On the morning of November 23, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) shot down multiple one-way attack drones launched from Houthi controlled areas in Yemen, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

The drones were shot down while the U.S. warship was on patrol in the Red Sea. The ship and crew sustained no damage or injury.

This is the second similar incident involving the the USS Thomas Hudner in the past week.

On November 15, the naval destroyer down a drone that was heading toward the it as it sailed in the southern Red Sea.

The Hudner was sailing toward the Bab-el-Mandeb strait when the crew saw the drone, which originated in Yemen. The ship shot down the drone over the water. Officials said the crew took action to ensure the safety of U.S. personnel, and there were no casualties or damage to the ship. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing military operations.

According to a initial intelligence assessment, the drone was likely targeting the ship, said one of the officials. The U.S. did not directly blame the Iran-backed Houthi rebels for launching the unmanned aircraft. But the early Wednesday incident comes less than a week after Houthis shot down a U.S. drone over the Red Sea. Officials said the MQ-9 Reaper was in international airspace. The Houthis said it was in Yemeni airspace and was shot down by air defenses.

The Houthis have launched at least six aerial attacks against Israel since Oct. 7 and, according to the group’s leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, have vowed to target ships operating in the Red Sea.

Another Navy destroyer, the USS Carney, took similar strikes on drones coming from Yemen on Oct. 19. The ship took out three missiles and several drones. It wasn’t certain if they were aimed at Israel. One of the officials said the U.S. does not believe the missiles were aimed at the ship.

The Houthi are staunch foes of Israel and regularly hold huge demonstrations in support of Palestinians, during peacetime and wartime.

-The Associated Press contributed to this story.

JERUSALEM —On the morning of November 23, the USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) shot down multiple one-way attack drones launched from Houthi controlled areas in Yemen, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.The drones were shot down while the U.S. warship was on patrol in the Red Sea. The ship and crew sustained no damage or injury.This is the second similar incident involving the the USS Thomas Hudner in the past week.On November 15, the naval destroyer down a drone that was heading toward the it as it sailed in the southern Red Sea.The Hudner was sailing toward the Bab-el-Mandeb strait when the crew saw the drone, which originated in Yemen. The ship shot down the drone over the water. Officials said the crew took action to ensure the safety of U.S. personnel, and there were no casualties or damage to the ship. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss ongoing military operations.According to a initial intelligence assessment, the drone was likely targeting the ship, said one of the officials. The U.S. did not directly blame the Iran-backed Houthi rebels for launching the unmanned aircraft. But the early Wednesday incident comes less than a week after Houthis shot down a U.S. drone over the Red Sea. Officials said the MQ-9 Reaper was in international airspace. The Houthis said it was in Yemeni airspace and was shot down by air defenses.The Houthis have launched at least six aerial attacks against Israel since Oct. 7 and, according to the group’s leader, Abdul Malik al-Houthi, have vowed to target ships operating in the Red Sea.Another Navy destroyer, the USS Carney, took similar strikes on drones coming from Yemen on Oct. 19. The ship took out three missiles and several drones. It wasn’t certain if they were aimed at Israel. One of the officials said the U.S. does not believe the missiles were aimed at the ship.The Houthi are staunch foes of Israel and regularly hold huge demonstrations in support of Palestinians, during peacetime and wartime.-The Associated Press contributed to this story.

U.S. warship shot down multiple attack drones over the Red Sea

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for alleged car theft after she&nbsp;led police on a chase through blinding gravel roads, barreled through a fence into a field, fled on foot and was eventually found hiding under some construction equipment.

Just after 10p.m. Nov. 19, a concerned driver called 911 after seeing the car driving the wrong way with no lights on Bob Billings near Kasold, according to Lawrence Police.

The caller said the wrong-way driver almost hit him and another vehicle. An officer tried to pull the car over but the driver took off.  She continued west on Bob Billings past Kansas 10 to 800 Road, then south for a while until turning onto private property through a fence and field. 

The w0man got out of the car and ran. Officers set up a perimeter and launched the drone but ultimately, an officer spotted her under the equipment. The woman had outstanding warrants and is suspected of driving under the influence and various other crimes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700483787408.png" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for alleged car theft after she&nbsp;led police on a chase through blinding gravel roads, barreled through a fence into a field, fled on foot and was eventually found hiding under some construction equipment.Just after 10p.m. Nov. 19, a concerned driver called 911 after seeing the car driving the wrong way with no lights on Bob Billings near Kasold, according to Lawrence Police.The caller said the wrong-way driver almost hit him and another vehicle. An officer tried to pull the car over but the driver took off. She continued west on Bob Billings past Kansas 10 to 800 Road, then south for a while until turning onto private property through a fence and field. The w0man got out of the car and ran. Officers set up a perimeter and launched the drone but ultimately, an officer spotted her under the equipment. The woman had outstanding warrants and is suspected of driving under the influence and various other crimes.

Kan. car theft suspect caught hiding under construction equipment

WASHINGTON (AP) — More children were apparently sickened by apple puree pouches recently recalled due to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wanabana-lead-poisoning-cinnamon-fruit-pouch-fda-736695be83554147723147759cb7ddae">dangerous lead contamination</a>, the Food and Drug Administration said.

The agency has received 52 reports of elevated lead levels among children who reportedly consumed the products, which is up from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wanabana-lead-poisoning-cinnamon-fruit-pouch-fda-736695be83554147723147759cb7ddae">34 cases reported last week</a>. The reports span 22 states and involve children between the ages of 1 to 4, according to the FDA's online update on the investigation.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wanabana-lead-poisoning-children-cdc-applesauce-puree-793c33aa66544044ae6413f8d34e169a">pouches</a>&nbsp;were marketed to parents and children under three brands: WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree and Schnucks and Weis cinnamon applesauce pouches. They were sold by national grocery chains, including Dollar Tree, and online retailers such as Amazon.

The FDA said it is still working with Dollar Tree to get the recalled products off of shelves in several states.

“This product should not be available for sale and consumers should not purchase or consume this product,” the agency said.

Parents should dispose of the pouches by emptying the contents into the trash and discarding the packaging, the agency said.

The FDA said Wednesday it is investigating the source of the contamination in cooperation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency previously said cinnamon imported from a manufacturer in Ecuador was the “likely source” of the lead contamination.

Lead exposure can lead to serious learning and behavior problems. Heavy metals like lead can get into food products from soil, air, water or industrial processes, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

There’s no safe level of lead exposure, but the CDC uses a marker of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter to identify children with higher levels than most. The affected children’s blood lead levels ranged from 4 to 29 micrograms per deciliter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699279077387.png" alt="FDA image" />
 <figcaption>FDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — More children were apparently sickened by apple puree pouches recently recalled due to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wanabana-lead-poisoning-cinnamon-fruit-pouch-fda-736695be83554147723147759cb7ddae">dangerous lead contamination</a>, the Food and Drug Administration said.The agency has received 52 reports of elevated lead levels among children who reportedly consumed the products, which is up from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wanabana-lead-poisoning-cinnamon-fruit-pouch-fda-736695be83554147723147759cb7ddae">34 cases reported last week</a>. The reports span 22 states and involve children between the ages of 1 to 4, according to the FDA's online update on the investigation.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wanabana-lead-poisoning-children-cdc-applesauce-puree-793c33aa66544044ae6413f8d34e169a">pouches</a>&nbsp;were marketed to parents and children under three brands: WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree and Schnucks and Weis cinnamon applesauce pouches. They were sold by national grocery chains, including Dollar Tree, and online retailers such as Amazon.The FDA said it is still working with Dollar Tree to get the recalled products off of shelves in several states.“This product should not be available for sale and consumers should not purchase or consume this product,” the agency said.Parents should dispose of the pouches by emptying the contents into the trash and discarding the packaging, the agency said.The FDA said Wednesday it is investigating the source of the contamination in cooperation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency previously said cinnamon imported from a manufacturer in Ecuador was the “likely source” of the lead contamination.Lead exposure can lead to serious learning and behavior problems. Heavy metals like lead can get into food products from soil, air, water or industrial processes, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.There’s no safe level of lead exposure, but the CDC uses a marker of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter to identify children with higher levels than most. The affected children’s blood lead levels ranged from 4 to 29 micrograms per deciliter.___

FDA: More children sickened by fruit pouches tainted with lead

SHAWNEE COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting and have captured a suspect.

On October 11, police responded to a shooting in the 1200 block of SW Clay Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

 First responders found 18-year-old s Ra’Juan Spicer,suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene.&nbsp;

Police asked the public to help locate Reginald Rucker-Plakio, 17, of Topeka, in reference to the homicide.

On Tuesday, US Marshalls, Shawnee Sheriff Department Deputies and Topeka Police Officers located him near the area of 21st and Auburn Rd., and after a short foot pursuit were able to take him into custody without any injuries, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

Later that evening, in relation to the investigation, Topeka Police Department Detectives served a search warrant in the 3400 Blk. of SW Kirklawn Avenue.

As a result of the investigation, Reginald Rucker-Plakio, 17, of Topeka, was transported to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections where he was booked in on requested charges of Murder in the 1st Degree and&nbsp;Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699048664862.png" alt="Rucker-Plakio-photo Topeka Police" />
 <figcaption>Rucker-Plakio-photo Topeka Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting and have captured a suspect.On October 11, police responded to a shooting in the 1200 block of SW Clay Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks. First responders found 18-year-old s Ra’Juan Spicer,suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene.&nbsp;Police asked the public to help locate Reginald Rucker-Plakio, 17, of Topeka, in reference to the homicide.On Tuesday, US Marshalls, Shawnee Sheriff Department Deputies and Topeka Police Officers located him near the area of 21st and Auburn Rd., and after a short foot pursuit were able to take him into custody without any injuries, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.Later that evening, in relation to the investigation, Topeka Police Department Detectives served a search warrant in the 3400 Blk. of SW Kirklawn Avenue.As a result of the investigation, Reginald Rucker-Plakio, 17, of Topeka, was transported to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections where he was booked in on requested charges of Murder in the 1st Degree and&nbsp;Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

U.S. Marshals help capture Kan. teen wanted for murder

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

WASHINGTON — The Democratic and Republican nominees for president would debate three times next year if both candidates agree to a schedule released Monday by the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates.

“The United States’ general election debates, watched live worldwide, are a model for many other countries: the opportunity to hear and see leading candidates address serious issues in a fair and neutral setting,” co-chairs Frank Fahrenkopf and Antonia Hernández said in a written statement. “This tradition remains unbroken since 1976.”

The first presidential debate is scheduled for Sept. 16 at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas.

That would be followed on Oct. 1 by a debate at Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia. And a third presidential debate would be held on Oct. 9 at The University of Utah in Salt Lake City.

The vice presidential candidates are scheduled to have their debate on Sept. 25 at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania.

The debate at Virginia State University would be the first presidential debate hosted by a Historically Black College or University.

The Democratic nominee will likely be President Joe Biden and at the moment former President Donald Trump is leading in the GOP polls, though he has several challengers.

Trump has not attended any of the Republican primary debates, often choosing to hold rallies instead.

It wasn’t immediately clear Monday if any of the candidates running for president had committed to participating in the debates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700582027830.png" alt="The 2020 presidential debate stage -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>The 2020 presidential debate stage -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>WASHINGTON — The Democratic and Republican nominees for president would debate three times next year if both candidates agree to a schedule released Monday by the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates.“The United States’ general election debates, watched live worldwide, are a model for many other countries: the opportunity to hear and see leading candidates address serious issues in a fair and neutral setting,” co-chairs Frank Fahrenkopf and Antonia Hernández said in a written statement. “This tradition remains unbroken since 1976.”The first presidential debate is scheduled for Sept. 16 at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas.That would be followed on Oct. 1 by a debate at Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia. And a third presidential debate would be held on Oct. 9 at The University of Utah in Salt Lake City.The vice presidential candidates are scheduled to have their debate on Sept. 25 at Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania.The debate at Virginia State University would be the first presidential debate hosted by a Historically Black College or University.The Democratic nominee will likely be President Joe Biden and at the moment former President Donald Trump is leading in the GOP polls, though he has several challengers.Trump has not attended any of the Republican primary debates, often choosing to hold rallies instead.It wasn’t immediately clear Monday if any of the candidates running for president had committed to participating in the debates.

3 presidential debates, one VP debate set ahead of 2024 election

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly on Wednesday revealed a new license plate design that will be seen on Kansas roadways beginning in spring 2024, according to a media release from her office.

 The new design is part of the state’s phased approach to replacing current embossed standard plates because of safety concerns.

“The new license plate design promotes the state and our sense of optimism as Kansans travel near and far,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“It serves as a reminder that there are endless possibilities and that we should always reach for the stars.”

The new plate displays a wheat-yellow color in the background with black and midnight blue text. The design pays tribute to the state motto, “ad astra per aspera,” with “to the stars” emblazoned across the bottom of the plate.

“Kansas Tourism was thrilled to be part of the process in designing a new state license plate,”&nbsp;said Bridgette Jobe, Director of Kansas Tourism. “Using ‘To the Stars’ proclaims to the rest of the world the Kansas optimistic and forward-looking spirit.”

The Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is phasing out its embossed license plates starting in January 2024, and the new plate design will appear on vehicles beginning in March 2024.

“Many of the embossed plates out on the road have become difficult to read due to significant deterioration,”&nbsp;David Harper, Director of KDOR Division of Vehicles, said. “Replacing these plates will not only help law enforcement but ensure that drivers can be easily identified in case of emergency.”

Additional information regarding the replacement process will be mailed with regular renewal notices. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmV2ZW51ZS5nb3YvZG92bmV3cGxhdGUuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjIuODYwMzU5NjEifQ.Dm3TMPXgSipWlVTHXrU9aljt3hYKGJ7LWU0kQwyYtm0/s/1303160919/br/231456464132-l" target="_blank">https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovnewplate.html</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700669520769.png" alt="courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly on Wednesday revealed a new license plate design that will be seen on Kansas roadways beginning in spring 2024, according to a media release from her office. The new design is part of the state’s phased approach to replacing current embossed standard plates because of safety concerns.“The new license plate design promotes the state and our sense of optimism as Kansans travel near and far,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“It serves as a reminder that there are endless possibilities and that we should always reach for the stars.”The new plate displays a wheat-yellow color in the background with black and midnight blue text. The design pays tribute to the state motto, “ad astra per aspera,” with “to the stars” emblazoned across the bottom of the plate.“Kansas Tourism was thrilled to be part of the process in designing a new state license plate,”&nbsp;said Bridgette Jobe, Director of Kansas Tourism. “Using ‘To the Stars’ proclaims to the rest of the world the Kansas optimistic and forward-looking spirit.”The Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is phasing out its embossed license plates starting in January 2024, and the new plate design will appear on vehicles beginning in March 2024.<ul>
 <li>Vehicle owners who update their registration in January or February and have embossed license plates will get the current design on flat, print-on-demand plates.</li><li>Vehicle owners who update their registration between March and December and have embossed license plates will get the new design on flat, print-on-demand plates.</li><li>All other standard flat, print-on-demand plates will continue to use the current design.</li>
 </ul>“Many of the embossed plates out on the road have become difficult to read due to significant deterioration,”&nbsp;David Harper, Director of KDOR Division of Vehicles, said. “Replacing these plates will not only help law enforcement but ensure that drivers can be easily identified in case of emergency.”Additional information regarding the replacement process will be mailed with regular renewal notices. Answers to frequently asked questions can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzcmV2ZW51ZS5nb3YvZG92bmV3cGxhdGUuaHRtbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzExMjIuODYwMzU5NjEifQ.Dm3TMPXgSipWlVTHXrU9aljt3hYKGJ7LWU0kQwyYtm0/s/1303160919/br/231456464132-l" target="_blank">https://www.ksrevenue.gov/dovnewplate.html</a>.

New standard license plate design for Kansas 

&nbsp;KANSAS CITY —Detectives are investigating the death of a man at a residence near 70th and South Benton in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found the man was suffering from gunshot wounds. While being transported to the hospital he died.&nbsp;

Police have not released the man's name or reported an arrest.

&nbsp;KANSAS CITY —Detectives are investigating the death of a man at a residence near 70th and South Benton in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found the man was suffering from gunshot wounds. While being transported to the hospital he died.&nbsp;Police have not released the man's name or reported an arrest.

Homicide: Man found with gunshot wounds in KC home 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As part of the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Wednesday, the tiebreaker was held for an election in a Reno County community.

"We have a tie vote in Langdon city, for the city council," said Reno County Deputy Elections Clerk Jenna Fager. "They each received three write in votes, and that was for Lathan Keener and Karen Fisher. Today, we do need to go ahead and break that tie."

The Board of Canvassers chose a coin toss to break the tie and they had Chaplain Richard Haley toss the coin. It came up heads, so Lathan Keener wins the city council seat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700666822194.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL&nbsp;Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — As part of the Board of County Commissioners meeting on Wednesday, the tiebreaker was held for an election in a Reno County community."We have a tie vote in Langdon city, for the city council," said Reno County Deputy Elections Clerk Jenna Fager. "They each received three write in votes, and that was for Lathan Keener and Karen Fisher. Today, we do need to go ahead and break that tie."The Board of Canvassers chose a coin toss to break the tie and they had Chaplain Richard Haley toss the coin. It came up heads, so Lathan Keener wins the city council seat.

Coin toss decides city council race in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused of killing a sheriff's K9 during an arrest in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.

Kaylon Kirkwood,24,&nbsp; was charged with one count of harming or killing a dog, battery against a law enforcement officer, domestic battery and battery, according to the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.

Just before noon on Nov. 16 the Wichita Police Domestic intervention and Violence Reduction team was in the area of Pawnee and Rock attempting to locate a 24-year-old robbery suspect later identified as Kaylon Kirkwood according to Wichita Police Lt.&nbsp;Lieutenant Aaron Moses.

Just after noon, police located Kirkwood but he fled into a creek and barricaded himself in a storm drain and refused to come out.

Sheriff's deputies and police used extended leashes and sent K9 officers into the drain.&nbsp; There was an altercation between the Kirkwood and&nbsp; Sedgwick County Sheriff K9 Bane. The dog was pronounced deceased on scene, according to Moses.

Just after 2:30p.m. the Kirkwood was finally taken into custody and transported for treatment of minor injuries from the K9. After Kirwood was released, police booked him into the Sedgwick County Detention Center.

A necropsy will be performed on the K9 officer to determine the cause of death. Wichita Police are in charge of the investigation and will present the case to the district attorney's office, according Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs.

A memorial service to recognize PSD Bane will take place on November 29 at 9:30 a.m., according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700174387964.png" alt="A memorial service to recognize PSD Bane will take place on November 29 at 9:30 a.m., according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A memorial service to recognize PSD Bane will take place on November 29 at 9:30 a.m., according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused of killing a sheriff's K9 during an arrest in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.Kaylon Kirkwood,24,&nbsp; was charged with one count of harming or killing a dog, battery against a law enforcement officer, domestic battery and battery, according to the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700237992193.png" alt="Kirkwood-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Kirkwood-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before noon on Nov. 16 the Wichita Police Domestic intervention and Violence Reduction team was in the area of Pawnee and Rock attempting to locate a 24-year-old robbery suspect later identified as Kaylon Kirkwood according to Wichita Police Lt.&nbsp;Lieutenant Aaron Moses.Just after noon, police located Kirkwood but he fled into a creek and barricaded himself in a storm drain and refused to come out.Sheriff's deputies and police used extended leashes and sent K9 officers into the drain.&nbsp; There was an altercation between the Kirkwood and&nbsp; Sedgwick County Sheriff K9 Bane. The dog was pronounced deceased on scene, according to Moses.Just after 2:30p.m. the Kirkwood was finally taken into custody and transported for treatment of minor injuries from the K9. After Kirwood was released, police booked him into the Sedgwick County Detention Center.A necropsy will be performed on the K9 officer to determine the cause of death. Wichita Police are in charge of the investigation and will present the case to the district attorney's office, according Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs.A memorial service to recognize PSD Bane will take place on November 29 at 9:30 a.m., according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;

Man accused of killing Kan. sheriff's K9 appears in court

DALLAS (AP) — Just minutes after President John F. Kennedy was fatally shot as his motorcade rolled through downtown Dallas, Associated Press reporter Peggy Simpson rushed to the scene and immediately attached herself to the police officers who had converged on the building from which a sniper's bullets had been fired.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700660048156.png" alt="Peggy Simpson holds a photograph of law enforcement carrying Lee Harvey Oswald's gun through a hallway packed with reporters, Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at her home in Washington. Simpson, a former Associated Press reporter, is among the last surviving witnesses to the events surrounding the assassination of Kennedy are among those sharing their stories as the nation marks the 60th anniversary. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)" />
 <figcaption>Peggy Simpson holds a photograph of law enforcement carrying Lee Harvey Oswald's gun through a hallway packed with reporters, Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at her home in Washington. Simpson, a former Associated Press reporter, is among the last surviving witnesses to the events surrounding the assassination of Kennedy are among those sharing their stories as the nation marks the 60th anniversary. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMIE STENGLE&nbsp;&nbsp;DALLAS (AP) — Just minutes after President John F. Kennedy was fatally shot as his motorcade rolled through downtown Dallas, Associated Press reporter Peggy Simpson rushed to the scene and immediately attached herself to the police officers who had converged on the building from which a sniper's bullets had been fired."I was sort of under their armpit," Simpson said, noting that every time she was able to get any information from them, she would rush to a pay phone to call her editors, and then "go back to the cops."Simpson, now 84, is among the last surviving witnesses who are sharing their stories as the nation marks the 60th anniversary of the Nov. 22, 1963, assassination on Wednesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700660678254.png" alt="FILE - In this Nov. 22, 1963 file photo, President John F. Kennedy waves from his car in a motorcade approximately one minute before he was shot in Dallas. Riding with Kennedy are First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, right, Nellie Connally, second from left, and her husband, Texas Gov. John Connally, far left. (AP Photo/Jim Altgens, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - In this Nov. 22, 1963 file photo, President John F. Kennedy waves from his car in a motorcade approximately one minute before he was shot in Dallas. Riding with Kennedy are First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, right, Nellie Connally, second from left, and her husband, Texas Gov. John Connally, far left. (AP Photo/Jim Altgens, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>"A tangible link to the past is going to be lost when the last voices from that time period are gone," said Stephen Fagin, curator at The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which tells the story of the assassination from the Texas School Book Depository, where Lee Harvey Oswald's sniper's perch was found."So many of the voices that were here, even 10 years ago, to share their memories — law enforcement officials, reporters, eyewitnesses — so many of those folks have passed away," he said.Simpson, former U.S. Secret Service Agent Clint Hill and others are featured in "JFK: One Day in America," a three-part series from National Geographic released this month that pairs their recollections with archival footage, some of which has been colorized for the first time. Director Ella Wright said that hearing from those who were there helps tell the "behind the scenes" story that augments archival footage."We wanted people to really understand what it felt like to be back there and to experience the emotional impact of those events," Wright said.People still flock to Dealey Plaza, which the presidential motorcade was passing through when Kennedy was killed."The assassination certainly defined a generation," Fagin said. "For those people who lived through it and came of age in the 1960s, it represented a significant shift in American culture."On the day of the assassination, Simpson had originally been assigned to attend an evening fundraising dinner for Kennedy in Austin. With time on her hands before she needed to leave Dallas, she was sent to watch the presidential motorcade, but she wasn't near Dealey Plaza.Simpson had no idea that anything out of the ordinary had happened until she arrived at The Dallas Times Herald's building where the AP's office was located. Stepping off an elevator, she heard a newspaper receptionist say, "All we know is that the president has been shot," and then heard the paper's editor briefing the staff.She raced to the AP office in time to watch over the bureau chief's shoulder as he filed the news to the world, and then ran out to the Texas School Book Depository to track down more information.Later, at police headquarters, she said, she witnessed "just a wild, crazy chaotic, unfathomable scene." Reporters had filled the hallways where an officer walked through with Lee Harvey Oswald 's rifle held aloft. The suspect's mother and wife arrived, and at one point authorities held a news conference where Oswald was asked questions by reporters."I was just with a great mass of other reporters, just trying to find any bit of information," she said.Two days later, Simpson was covering Oswald's transfer from police headquarters to the county jail, when nightclub owner Jack Ruby burst forth from a gaggle of news reporters and shot the suspect dead.As police officers wrestled with Ruby on the floor, Simpson rushed to a nearby bank of phones "and started dictating everything I saw to the AP editors," she said. In that moment, she was just thinking about getting out the news."As an AP reporter, you just go for the phone, you can't process anything at that point," she said.Simpson said she must have heard the gunshot but she can't remember it."Probably Ruby was 2 or 3 feet away from me but I didn't know him, didn't see him, didn't see him come out from the crowd of reporters," she said.Simpson's recollections are included in an oral history collection at the Sixth Floor Museum that now includes about 2,500 recordings, according to Fagin.The museum curator said Simpson is "a terrific example of somebody who was just where the action was that weekend and got caught up in truly historic events while simply doing her job as a professional journalist."Fagin said oral histories are still being recorded. Many of the more recent ones have been with people who were children in the '60s and remembered hearing about the assassination while at school."It's a race against time really to try to capture these recollections," Fagin said.