SEDGWICK COUNTY—Two juveniles were injured and three others are in custody after a shooting on Friday at a mall in Wichita.

&nbsp;Just after&nbsp;3:36 p.m. on Friday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the Town East Mall parking lot, near Round 1 Bowling, according to a media release.

Investigators discovered that a fight involving five males escalated into gunfire. Two victims were injured: one was shot in the torso and the other in the leg. Officers applied a tourniquet to the leg injury before Sedgwick County EMS arrived.

An off-duty officer from the Great Bend Police Department, who was in plain clothes, detained one suspect just as Wichita officers arrived. This suspect was found to be in possession of what appeared to be a rifle-caliber pistol. Officers subsequently took two additional males into custody.

The two victims, aged 17 and 15, were transported to a nearby hospital, where they were listed in critical condition on Saturday morning, according to police.

 The victims were on the ground when the primary suspect continued to shoot at them. The primary suspect, age 17, has been arrested for two counts of attempted murder. The two other suspects, both 16 years old, will be booked with disorderly conduct related to fighting.

Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan highlighted the dangers of youth access to high-powered weapons, stating, “Once again, we have an incident involving teenagers with a high-powered weapon that resulted in two young people being hospitalized. This was the result of poor decision-making by these teens. Lives were saved due to the quick and decisive actions of the off-duty Great Bend Police officer who happened to be at the scene and the rapid response of Wichita officers, which helped prevent further tragedy. I urge parents to monitor their children’s activities, possessions, and associates. Community involvement is crucial if we are to keep our youth safe and prevent these incidents from occurring.”

This incident remains under active investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Wichita Police Department detectives or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754688094504.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Two juveniles were injured and three others are in custody after a shooting on Friday at a mall in Wichita.&nbsp;Just after&nbsp;3:36 p.m. on Friday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the Town East Mall parking lot, near Round 1 Bowling, according to a media release.Investigators discovered that a fight involving five males escalated into gunfire. Two victims were injured: one was shot in the torso and the other in the leg. Officers applied a tourniquet to the leg injury before Sedgwick County EMS arrived.An off-duty officer from the Great Bend Police Department, who was in plain clothes, detained one suspect just as Wichita officers arrived. This suspect was found to be in possession of what appeared to be a rifle-caliber pistol. Officers subsequently took two additional males into custody.The two victims, aged 17 and 15, were transported to a nearby hospital, where they were listed in critical condition on Saturday morning, according to police. The victims were on the ground when the primary suspect continued to shoot at them. The primary suspect, age 17, has been arrested for two counts of attempted murder. The two other suspects, both 16 years old, will be booked with disorderly conduct related to fighting.Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan highlighted the dangers of youth access to high-powered weapons, stating, “Once again, we have an incident involving teenagers with a high-powered weapon that resulted in two young people being hospitalized. This was the result of poor decision-making by these teens. Lives were saved due to the quick and decisive actions of the off-duty Great Bend Police officer who happened to be at the scene and the rapid response of Wichita officers, which helped prevent further tragedy. I urge parents to monitor their children’s activities, possessions, and associates. Community involvement is crucial if we are to keep our youth safe and prevent these incidents from occurring.”This incident remains under active investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Wichita Police Department detectives or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Teens critically injured in Kan. mall parking lot shooting

WICHITA, KAN, – A Kansas businessman pleaded guilty to various charges related to defrauding clients of his accounting firm by falsely claiming money he had stolen was being used to pay business expenses, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Quintin Flanagin, 45, of Colby pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of false statements, and one count of money laundering.

Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), used his status as a signatory on the accounts of his clients’ business, Diamond M. Farms, to make unauthorized transactions between December 2021 and August 2022. He wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations. 

Middle Finger Ranch is a fictitious business name that Flanagin connected to his personal bank account. Flanagin actually used the illegally obtained funds to pay for the construction on his new home.

Flanagin is scheduled to be sentenced on October 30, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714043354777.png" alt="Flanagin from his booking in Sedgwick County in April 2024" />
 <figcaption>Flanagin from his booking in Sedgwick County in April 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN, – A Kansas businessman pleaded guilty to various charges related to defrauding clients of his accounting firm by falsely claiming money he had stolen was being used to pay business expenses, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Quintin Flanagin, 45, of Colby pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of false statements, and one count of money laundering.Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), used his status as a signatory on the accounts of his clients’ business, Diamond M. Farms, to make unauthorized transactions between December 2021 and August 2022. He wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations. Middle Finger Ranch is a fictitious business name that Flanagin connected to his personal bank account. Flanagin actually used the illegally obtained funds to pay for the construction on his new home.Flanagin is scheduled to be sentenced on October 30, 2025. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Kan. CPA, creator of ‘Middle Finger Ranch,’ admits fraud scheme

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement in Saline County are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 5:30 am Friday and have made an arrest.

According to Saline County Sheriff's Captain Jim Hughes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by&nbsp;32-year-old Kayla Errebo of Lorraine was westbound on Kansas 140 at South Reese Road in rural Saline County. Errebo entered the eastbound lanes and struck a&nbsp;Chevrolet truck driven by&nbsp;61-year-old Mark Sommerfeld of Brookville head-on.

A passenger in the Chevy identified as 55-year-old Deanna Sommerfeld from Brookville was pronounced dead at the scene. 

EMS transported Mark Sommerfield to Salina Regional Health Center. Both were properly restrained, according to Hughes.

Errebo was not at the scene of the crash. However, deputies located her just before 8:30 am at an address in Ellsworth.&nbsp; She had minor&nbsp;injuries that did not require medical treatment. 

Errebo was taken into custody and booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges that could include: 

Murder in the second degree, Failure to report an injury accident, Circumvention of ignition interlock device and Probation violation.

The Saline County Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the incident and encourages anyone with information to contact the Sheriff's Office at (785) 826-6500.

Salina Post will provide more details once received

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754697774905.png" alt="Kayla Errebo had a previous arrest for alleged DUI in June of 2024. She was also accused of DUI in January of 2024, according to online jail records.-photo Saline Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Kayla Errebo had a previous arrest for alleged DUI in June of 2024. She was also accused of DUI in January of 2024, according to online jail records.-photo Saline Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina PostSALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement in Saline County are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 5:30 am Friday and have made an arrest.According to Saline County Sheriff's Captain Jim Hughes, a Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by&nbsp;32-year-old Kayla Errebo of Lorraine was westbound on Kansas 140 at South Reese Road in rural Saline County. Errebo entered the eastbound lanes and struck a&nbsp;Chevrolet truck driven by&nbsp;61-year-old Mark Sommerfeld of Brookville head-on.A passenger in the Chevy identified as 55-year-old Deanna Sommerfeld from Brookville was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Mark Sommerfield to Salina Regional Health Center. Both were properly restrained, according to Hughes.Errebo was not at the scene of the crash. However, deputies located her just before 8:30 am at an address in Ellsworth.&nbsp; She had minor&nbsp;injuries that did not require medical treatment. Errebo was taken into custody and booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges that could include: Murder in the second degree, Failure to report an injury accident, Circumvention of ignition interlock device and Probation violation.The Saline County Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the incident and encourages anyone with information to contact the Sheriff's Office at (785) 826-6500.Salina Post will provide more details once received

UPDATE: Woman accused of second degree murder after fatality crash in Saline County

Wichita man accused of stalking and threatening to kill a Salina woman.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Thursday, August 7th at about 4:45 pm, a 27-year old woman reported that a man she knows had been stalking her. Reportedly, the woman told 41-year old Dustin Tyler of Wichita 'to stay away,' after he had been following her around Salina in a vehicle.

The woman then drove to her friend's house in the 900 block of Seneca, as Tyler followed in his vehicle. When she arrived, Tyler exited his vehicle and approached her. As he got near, Tyler allegedly 'threatened to kill' the woman and pushed her as well. Tyler then left the area in his vehicle. 

At around 2:00 am, an officer on patrol discovered a vehicle driving in the area of Broadway and N. 13th without its headlights on. The officer then conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver as Tyler.

Tyler was then arrested without incident and booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges:

&nbsp;Criminal Threat, Stalking and Domestic Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754660157390.jpeg" alt="Tyler, Dustin Dean; photo courtesy of the Saline County Sheriff's Office (Saline County Jail Bookings, August 8, 2025)" />
 <figcaption>Tyler, Dustin Dean; photo courtesy of the Saline County Sheriff's Office (Saline County Jail Bookings, August 8, 2025)</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostWichita man accused of stalking and threatening to kill a Salina woman.According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Thursday, August 7th at about 4:45 pm, a 27-year old woman reported that a man she knows had been stalking her. Reportedly, the woman told 41-year old Dustin Tyler of Wichita 'to stay away,' after he had been following her around Salina in a vehicle.The woman then drove to her friend's house in the 900 block of Seneca, as Tyler followed in his vehicle. When she arrived, Tyler exited his vehicle and approached her. As he got near, Tyler allegedly 'threatened to kill' the woman and pushed her as well. Tyler then left the area in his vehicle. At around 2:00 am, an officer on patrol discovered a vehicle driving in the area of Broadway and N. 13th without its headlights on. The officer then conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver as Tyler.Tyler was then arrested without incident and booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges:&nbsp;Criminal Threat, Stalking and Domestic Battery.

Wichita man accused of stalking and threatening to kill a Salina woman

JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase.

Just after 2a.m. on August, 5, a Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a 2018 Chevy Silverado heading north on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road for allegedly committing traffic infractions, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit ensued northbound on U.S. Hwy 75. The suspect vehicle allegedly exceeded over 100mph.  At one point, a Jackson County Deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention which temporarily disabled the suspect vehicle. The suspect allegedly ran motorists off the road way during the pursuit. The suspect vehicle eventually came to a stop near 278th Road on U.S. Hwy 75. 

 The driver, 35-year-old Michael Andrew Richardson of Topeka was arrested and taken into custody.  Richardson was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include two counts of aggravated battery on law enforcement, two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement, two counts battery on law enforcement, battery on a corrections officer, one count of aggravated assault, felony criminal damage to property, flee and eluding law enforcement by reckless driving, driving under the influence and felony interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754506700869.png" alt="Richardson-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Richardson-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase.Just after 2a.m. on August, 5, a Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to stop a 2018 Chevy Silverado heading north on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road for allegedly committing traffic infractions, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit ensued northbound on U.S. Hwy 75. The suspect vehicle allegedly exceeded over 100mph. At one point, a Jackson County Deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention which temporarily disabled the suspect vehicle. The suspect allegedly ran motorists off the road way during the pursuit. The suspect vehicle eventually came to a stop near 278th Road on U.S. Hwy 75. The driver, 35-year-old Michael Andrew Richardson of Topeka was arrested and taken into custody. Richardson was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include two counts of aggravated battery on law enforcement, two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement, two counts battery on law enforcement, battery on a corrections officer, one count of aggravated assault, felony criminal damage to property, flee and eluding law enforcement by reckless driving, driving under the influence and felony interference with law enforcement.

Sheriff: Kansas driver ran vehicles off the road during 100mph chase

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a standoff in Great Bend.

Just before 11 a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a residence located at 217 Pine Street in Great Bend in reference to a domestic disturbance, according to a media release.

 Officers were advised that the suspect 34-year-old Robert C. Amador was damaging property inside the residence and making threats to harm others with a homemade hatchet. 

 Upon officers’ arrival they were able to safely get two other occupants of the home out safely. Robert Amador barricaded himself inside the residence and refused to come out.  Officers tried talking Amador out of the residence for approximately an hour and fifteen minutes and were unable to get him to cooperate. 

 Officers used the department drone to help locate Amador in the residence, then using a distraction on the opposite side of the residence, officers made entry into the residence and took Amador into custody. Amador was transported to the Barton County Detention Center where he was booked on requested charges of Aggravated Assault Domestic Violence and Felony Obstruction.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754607384971.png" alt="Amador photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Amador photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a standoff in Great Bend.Just before 11 a.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a residence located at 217 Pine Street in Great Bend in reference to a domestic disturbance, according to a media release. Officers were advised that the suspect 34-year-old Robert C. Amador was damaging property inside the residence and making threats to harm others with a homemade hatchet. Upon officers’ arrival they were able to safely get two other occupants of the home out safely. Robert Amador barricaded himself inside the residence and refused to come out. Officers tried talking Amador out of the residence for approximately an hour and fifteen minutes and were unable to get him to cooperate. Officers used the department drone to help locate Amador in the residence, then using a distraction on the opposite side of the residence, officers made entry into the residence and took Amador into custody. Amador was transported to the Barton County Detention Center where he was booked on requested charges of Aggravated Assault Domestic Violence and Felony Obstruction.

Kan. man armed with a homemade hatchet jailed after standoff

America's largest family-owned retail seed company and the third-largest seed brand, has celebrated the opening of their new $21 million, 90,000 square foot warehouse in Salina.

Beck's Hybrids, a family-owned company originating from Atlanta, Indiana looks to bring their experienced years of research and agricultural techniques to heart of Kansas. 

On Tuesday, August 5th, Beck's held an open house at their brand new facility located on 2201 N. Ohio. People in attendance got to experience first-hand the mission and passion the family-owned company with over a century of rich history, brings to local farmers. 

During the open house, President Scott Beck spoke to a large crowd about what Beck's is all about.

"Our purpose is helping farmers succeed," said Scott. "This location in Salina is meant to have close proximity for farmers to able to access products and be able to come in and look at our practical farm research."

Extensive research and successful practices &amp; resources for farmers

Beck's Hybrids uses products that ranges from corn, soybeans, wheat, corn silage, alfalfa, milo/grain sorghum, cover crops/forages, great harvest organics and Beck's better bedding. Working with farmers across 23 states, Beck's teaches and shows farming practices that farmers can utilize to improve their daily operations.

Beck's is loaded with a research and testing team that helps farmers get access to the wide diversity of Beck's products. Farmers can obtain this useful information by attending their "Becknology Days," as they can learn about all the resources and testimonies of successful farming. Plus, each year Beck's publishes 300 plus, page book comprising of more than 100 different research projects the company is doing. Every winter, Beck's holds 'insight meetings' where they share with farmers the major highlights of the year.&nbsp;

Scott emphasized the importance of agriculture from a national security standpoint.

"When people have food to eat, there are less riots and more stability among all of our communities," he said. "Supporting the farmers that are bringing that level of stability to our nation, state and local communities is really important. As much as we can do to support our farmers and research to do things better, the better all of our lives will be."

Corey Beck of Beck's Hybrids handles all of the business analytics for Beck's Hybrids. During the President's speech he went over Succession planning and the mission of Beck's

"Succession planning is really about thinking generationally and planning ahead to best position your family and your farm to be successful for many years into the future," said Corey Beck. "What has been occurring in recent years is a significant gap in estate value versus income. This is leading to farm estates increasing at a very quick rate, but cash and income are not keeping up. So, having a plan for managing that gap as farms transition from one generation to another is really critical to effectively manage estate taxes and working capital."

Corey stated Beck's sole mission is help farmers succeed.

"Our mission is to help farmers succeed. We are focused on providing industry-leading value and leaning into the relationships that we build to deliver an exceptional experience," he said.

Words from Senator Moran and Mayor Lenkiewicz

Senator Jerry Moran and Salina Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz each made an appearance at the open house. Both expressed words of praise and admiration for the work Beck's Hybrids does.

"I came today (Tuesday) to get better acquainted with Beck's and welcome them to Salina," Moran said. "What a great family with values that are very helpful and meaningful to people across Kansas."

Moran plans on acknowledging Beck's Hybrids back to Washington and wants to support them along the coming years.

"It would be great if the values that Beck's has, were values that were dominant in the United States," he said. "For the country to be well and better, we need people that have great values. We try to make sure the values that are necessary for the well-being of the country are those that are found in the nation's Capital as well."

Salina Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz commented on the economic prosperity&nbsp; Beck's would bring to Salina.

"We are elated to have them here in the community, they (Beck's) will bring more jobs and it's another big piece to puzzle for the economic development and expansion of our community," said Lenkiewicz.

With Beck's being apart of the Salina community, Lenkiewicz stated the importance in facilitating relationships and growth from the government to a family-owned business.

"I'm a big believer that if a business is in the confines of zoning in the various structure, that we will just stay out of the way and let them do their thing," he said.

For more information about Beck's Hybrids, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beckshybrids.com/">https://www.beckshybrids.com/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754497173613.jpeg" alt="Beck's Hybrids, largest family-owned retail seed company and the third-largest seed brand in the US, establishes warehouse in Salina, KS on 2201 N. Ohio." />
 <figcaption>Beck's Hybrids, largest family-owned retail seed company and the third-largest seed brand in the US, establishes warehouse in Salina, KS on 2201 N. Ohio.</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostAmerica's largest family-owned retail seed company and the third-largest seed brand, has celebrated the opening of their new $21 million, 90,000 square foot warehouse in Salina.Beck's Hybrids, a family-owned company originating from Atlanta, Indiana looks to bring their experienced years of research and agricultural techniques to heart of Kansas. On Tuesday, August 5th, Beck's held an open house at their brand new facility located on 2201 N. Ohio. People in attendance got to experience first-hand the mission and passion the family-owned company with over a century of rich history, brings to local farmers. During the open house, President Scott Beck spoke to a large crowd about what Beck's is all about."Our purpose is helping farmers succeed," said Scott. "This location in Salina is meant to have close proximity for farmers to able to access products and be able to come in and look at our practical farm research."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754502011853.jpeg" alt="Scott Beck during the "President's Speech" at Beck's Hybrids open house on Tuesday, August 5th" />
 <figcaption>Scott Beck during the "President's Speech" at Beck's Hybrids open house on Tuesday, August 5th</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Extensive research and successful practices &amp; resources for farmers</h2>Beck's Hybrids uses products that ranges from corn, soybeans, wheat, corn silage, alfalfa, milo/grain sorghum, cover crops/forages, great harvest organics and Beck's better bedding. Working with farmers across 23 states, Beck's teaches and shows farming practices that farmers can utilize to improve their daily operations.Beck's is loaded with a research and testing team that helps farmers get access to the wide diversity of Beck's products. Farmers can obtain this useful information by attending their "Becknology Days," as they can learn about all the resources and testimonies of successful farming. Plus, each year Beck's publishes 300 plus, page book comprising of more than 100 different research projects the company is doing. Every winter, Beck's holds 'insight meetings' where they share with farmers the major highlights of the year.&nbsp;Scott emphasized the importance of agriculture from a national security standpoint."When people have food to eat, there are less riots and more stability among all of our communities," he said. "Supporting the farmers that are bringing that level of stability to our nation, state and local communities is really important. As much as we can do to support our farmers and research to do things better, the better all of our lives will be."Corey Beck of Beck's Hybrids handles all of the business analytics for Beck's Hybrids. During the President's speech he went over Succession planning and the mission of Beck's"Succession planning is really about thinking generationally and planning ahead to best position your family and your farm to be successful for many years into the future," said Corey Beck. "What has been occurring in recent years is a significant gap in estate value versus income. This is leading to farm estates increasing at a very quick rate, but cash and income are not keeping up. So, having a plan for managing that gap as farms transition from one generation to another is really critical to effectively manage estate taxes and working capital."Corey stated Beck's sole mission is help farmers succeed."Our mission is to help farmers succeed. We are focused on providing industry-leading value and leaning into the relationships that we build to deliver an exceptional experience," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754503411034.jpeg" alt="Welcome to Kansas Becknology Days sign at the open house on Tuesday, August 5th in Salina" />
 <figcaption>Welcome to Kansas Becknology Days sign at the open house on Tuesday, August 5th in Salina</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Words from Senator Moran and Mayor Lenkiewicz</h2>Senator Jerry Moran and Salina Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz each made an appearance at the open house. Both expressed words of praise and admiration for the work Beck's Hybrids does."I came today (Tuesday) to get better acquainted with Beck's and welcome them to Salina," Moran said. "What a great family with values that are very helpful and meaningful to people across Kansas."Moran plans on acknowledging Beck's Hybrids back to Washington and wants to support them along the coming years."It would be great if the values that Beck's has, were values that were dominant in the United States," he said. "For the country to be well and better, we need people that have great values. We try to make sure the values that are necessary for the well-being of the country are those that are found in the nation's Capital as well."Salina Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz commented on the economic prosperity&nbsp; Beck's would bring to Salina."We are elated to have them here in the community, they (Beck's) will bring more jobs and it's another big piece to puzzle for the economic development and expansion of our community," said Lenkiewicz.With Beck's being apart of the Salina community, Lenkiewicz stated the importance in facilitating relationships and growth from the government to a family-owned business."I'm a big believer that if a business is in the confines of zoning in the various structure, that we will just stay out of the way and let them do their thing," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754505984607.jpeg" alt="Senator Jerry Moran and Salina Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz both speaking during the "President's Speech" at Beck's Hybrids on Tuesday, August 5th" />
 <figcaption>Senator Jerry Moran and Salina Mayor Greg Lenkiewicz both speaking during the "President's Speech" at Beck's Hybrids on Tuesday, August 5th</figcaption>
 </figure>For more information about Beck's Hybrids, go to:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.beckshybrids.com/">https://www.beckshybrids.com/</a>

Beck's Hybrids opens $23 million, 90,000 square foot facility in Salina: What to know

RENO COUNTY — A former USD 309 Nickerson school district employee is in custody for alleged child sex crimes.

Authorities arrested Ryan Stoecklein, 29, on Wednesday and just before 11a.m., booked him into the Reno County jail on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child under 18 and attempted unlawful sexual relations, according to the county arrest report.

According to the complaint, "Between January 1 and March 24, 2025, in Reno County, Kansas, Ryan James Stoecklein did unlawfully and feloniously attempt to engage in consensual sexual intercourse and lewd fondling or touching with a person who was a student enrolled at the school where the offender was employed, to wit: Nickerson High School, who was 16 or more years of age, to-wit: JMFG (DOB: xx/xx/2007), and who was not married to the offender, while the offender was a teacher or other person in a position of authority, by completing an overt act towards the perpetration of the crime, done by a person who intended to commit such crime but failed in the perpetration thereof or was prevented or intercepted in executing such crime, a severity level 7 person felony."

<a href="https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/kake.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/b8/4b85d371-d587-4e69-ba84-ad3cc6e6dfa4/6893e1163ec77.pdf.pdf">Click here to read the full complaint.</a>

Stoecklein is being held on a $120,000 bond and will make a court appearance on Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754530743944.png" alt="Stoecklein photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Stoecklein photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — A former USD 309 Nickerson school district employee is in custody for alleged child sex crimes.Authorities arrested Ryan Stoecklein, 29, on Wednesday and just before 11a.m., booked him into the Reno County jail on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child under 18 and attempted unlawful sexual relations, according to the county arrest report.According to the complaint, "Between January 1 and March 24, 2025, in Reno County, Kansas, Ryan James Stoecklein did unlawfully and feloniously attempt to engage in consensual sexual intercourse and lewd fondling or touching with a person who was a student enrolled at the school where the offender was employed, to wit: Nickerson High School, who was 16 or more years of age, to-wit: JMFG (DOB: xx/xx/2007), and who was not married to the offender, while the offender was a teacher or other person in a position of authority, by completing an overt act towards the perpetration of the crime, done by a person who intended to commit such crime but failed in the perpetration thereof or was prevented or intercepted in executing such crime, a severity level 7 person felony."<a href="https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/kake.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/4/b8/4b85d371-d587-4e69-ba84-ad3cc6e6dfa4/6893e1163ec77.pdf.pdf">Click here to read the full complaint.</a>Stoecklein is being held on a $120,000 bond and will make a court appearance on Thursday.

Former Kan. school employee accused of sex crimes with student 

SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;—Law enforcement investigating a man's murder have a suspect in custody.

On Wednesday, the Wichita Police Department the arrest of&nbsp; a 41-year-old Wichita man identified according to booking records as Ricardo S. Talavera, in connection with the shooting death of 49-year-old Ruben Parga-Quintanar.

Just before 9a.m. Friday, officers and Wichita Fire Department crews responded to a report of a man down near the entrance to an alley in the 2400 block of North Jeanette. When fire personnel arrived, they found Parga-Quintanar with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:53 a.m.

Early findings in the investigation suggested Parga-Quintanar was shot elsewhere and collapsed after fleeing on a bicycle. As the case progressed, detectives determined he was shot in the alley and then collapsed nearby.

Investigators identified Talavera as a suspect and served a search warrant at his home on Saturday. On Tuesday night, police arrested him and booked him into the Sedgwick County Jail on a requested charge of second-degree murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754486168417.png" alt="Talavera-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Talavera-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;—Law enforcement investigating a man's murder have a suspect in custody.On Wednesday, the Wichita Police Department the arrest of&nbsp; a 41-year-old Wichita man identified according to booking records as Ricardo S. Talavera, in connection with the shooting death of 49-year-old Ruben Parga-Quintanar.Just before 9a.m. Friday, officers and Wichita Fire Department crews responded to a report of a man down near the entrance to an alley in the 2400 block of North Jeanette. When fire personnel arrived, they found Parga-Quintanar with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:53 a.m.Early findings in the investigation suggested Parga-Quintanar was shot elsewhere and collapsed after fleeing on a bicycle. As the case progressed, detectives determined he was shot in the alley and then collapsed nearby.Investigators identified Talavera as a suspect and served a search warrant at his home on Saturday. On Tuesday night, police arrested him and booked him into the Sedgwick County Jail on a requested charge of second-degree murder.

Suspect accused of killing SW Kan. man who escaped on bicycle

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused of killing his mother-in-law in front of his 8-year-old son made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.

&nbsp;Stephen Jacob Rogers was charged with first-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated endangering a child, and criminal threat in the death of&nbsp;49-year-old Sharmaine Burke, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred late Wednesday night&nbsp;

At 11:32 p.m., July 30, Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a 911 call from 49-year-old Sharmaine Marlene Burke, according to a media release from the sheriff's office. Burke reported that her son-in-law, 29-year-old Stephen J. Rogers of Wichita, was drunk and had threatened to shoot her. She also stated that her eight-year-old grandson, Rogers’ son, was inside their home at the time, at the Longbranch Mobile Home Park near Derby.

The 911 call-taker stayed on the line as deputies responded. A few minutes into the call, gunshots were heard, and the line went silent.

Deputies arrived at 11:41 p.m. and found Burke with multiple gunshot wounds to her upper body. Deputies and Sedgwick County EMS attempted life-saving measures, but Burke succumbed to her injuries at 11:57 p.m.

Rogers and his son were not at the scene when deputies arrived. An immediate search for both the suspect and the child began. Deputies obtained critical information, including a description of Rogers’ vehicle, and shared it with surrounding law enforcement agencies.

At 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, FLOCK camera technology detected Rogers’ vehicle in Augusta. Butler County law enforcement quickly located and stopped the vehicle on U.S. Highway 54 near Haverhill Road. Rogers was arrested and the child was found unharmed inside the vehicle.

Rogers was taken to the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigations Division, and was booked into jail.

Deputies and investigators provided immediate resources to ensure the child’s safety and wellbeing.

The Sheriff’s Office coordinated with multiple agencies during the investigation. Quick action and cooperation allowed law enforcement to safely locate the child and apprehend the suspect.

As part of the investigation, it was determined that an Amber Alert was not necessary because investigators obtained real-time intelligence on the suspect’s vehicle and used FLOCK technology to track it. Issuing an Amber Alert could have alerted the suspect, increasing the risk to the child and complicating the search.

The process for issuing an alert also involves the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and the timeline indicates the alert would have been issued only after the suspect and child were located.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754002321266.png" alt="Rogers-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Rogers-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused of killing his mother-in-law in front of his 8-year-old son made his first court appearance in the case Tuesday.&nbsp;Stephen Jacob Rogers was charged with first-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated endangering a child, and criminal threat in the death of&nbsp;49-year-old Sharmaine Burke, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754428952134.png" alt="Sharmaine Burke photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Sharmaine Burke photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred late Wednesday night&nbsp;At 11:32 p.m., July 30, Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a 911 call from 49-year-old Sharmaine Marlene Burke, according to a media release from the sheriff's office. Burke reported that her son-in-law, 29-year-old Stephen J. Rogers of Wichita, was drunk and had threatened to shoot her. She also stated that her eight-year-old grandson, Rogers’ son, was inside their home at the time, at the Longbranch Mobile Home Park near Derby.The 911 call-taker stayed on the line as deputies responded. A few minutes into the call, gunshots were heard, and the line went silent.Deputies arrived at 11:41 p.m. and found Burke with multiple gunshot wounds to her upper body. Deputies and Sedgwick County EMS attempted life-saving measures, but Burke succumbed to her injuries at 11:57 p.m.Rogers and his son were not at the scene when deputies arrived. An immediate search for both the suspect and the child began. Deputies obtained critical information, including a description of Rogers’ vehicle, and shared it with surrounding law enforcement agencies.At 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, FLOCK camera technology detected Rogers’ vehicle in Augusta. Butler County law enforcement quickly located and stopped the vehicle on U.S. Highway 54 near Haverhill Road. Rogers was arrested and the child was found unharmed inside the vehicle.Rogers was taken to the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigations Division, and was booked into jail.Deputies and investigators provided immediate resources to ensure the child’s safety and wellbeing.The Sheriff’s Office coordinated with multiple agencies during the investigation. Quick action and cooperation allowed law enforcement to safely locate the child and apprehend the suspect.As part of the investigation, it was determined that an Amber Alert was not necessary because investigators obtained real-time intelligence on the suspect’s vehicle and used FLOCK technology to track it. Issuing an Amber Alert could have alerted the suspect, increasing the risk to the child and complicating the search.The process for issuing an alert also involves the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and the timeline indicates the alert would have been issued only after the suspect and child were located.

Kan. man accused of killing his mother-in-law faces a judge

HARVEY COUNTY – Samara Maple, 25, of Hutchinson, Kansas, pled guilty in Harvey County District Court on Tuesday to one count of Leaving the Scene of a Fatality Accident, according to the Harvey County Attorney's office.

The charge stems from a collision that occurred on April 8, 2024, when Laurie Oswald Robinson, of Newton, Kansas, was found deceased on the embankment beneath the SE 24th Street bridge over Interstate 135. 

Subsequent investigation determined that Ms. Robinson had been struck by a vehicle while walking across the bridge, and that the driver had left the scene without notifying authorities.

Following a thorough investigation by law enforcement, Maple was identified and charged in connection with the fatal hit-and-run.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 14, 2025, before District Judge Jason Lane in Harvey County District Court.

The Harvey County Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office and the Newton Police Department for their diligent work in bringing this case to resolution.

NEWTON, Kan. — Newton Police arrested a Hutchinson woman Monday evening in the fatal hit-and-run crash that killed a Newton woman Monday morning.

Samara Maple, 23, was booked into Harvey County Jail on preliminary charges of failure to stop at an accident resulting in death, which is a felony. She is being held without bond.

Laurie Robinson, 64, of Newton, died Monday morning after she was struck by a car while walking on Southeast 24th Street just east of I-135 in Newton. Police began searching for a white Honda or Acura with passenger-side damage. Maple’s white Honda was taken by police after her arrest.

NEWTON, Kan. —Police have located the vehicle and driver involved in fatal hit-and-run that occurred Monday morning in Newton, according to a social media report from Newton Police.

The City of Newton identified the victim as 64-year-old Laurie Robinson of Newton.&nbsp; She was killed in the hit-and-run on Southeast 24th Street just east of I-135 in Newton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712698752314.png" alt="Maple photo Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Maple photo Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY – Samara Maple, 25, of Hutchinson, Kansas, pled guilty in Harvey County District Court on Tuesday to one count of Leaving the Scene of a Fatality Accident, according to the Harvey County Attorney's office.The charge stems from a collision that occurred on April 8, 2024, when Laurie Oswald Robinson, of Newton, Kansas, was found deceased on the embankment beneath the SE 24th Street bridge over Interstate 135. Subsequent investigation determined that Ms. Robinson had been struck by a vehicle while walking across the bridge, and that the driver had left the scene without notifying authorities.Following a thorough investigation by law enforcement, Maple was identified and charged in connection with the fatal hit-and-run.Sentencing is scheduled for October 14, 2025, before District Judge Jason Lane in Harvey County District Court.The Harvey County Attorney’s Office extends its appreciation to the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office and the Newton Police Department for their diligent work in bringing this case to resolution.-----------------NEWTON, Kan. — Newton Police arrested a Hutchinson woman Monday evening in the fatal hit-and-run crash that killed a Newton woman Monday morning.Samara Maple, 23, was booked into Harvey County Jail on preliminary charges of failure to stop at an accident resulting in death, which is a felony. She is being held without bond.Laurie Robinson, 64, of Newton, died Monday morning after she was struck by a car while walking on Southeast 24th Street just east of I-135 in Newton. Police began searching for a white Honda or Acura with passenger-side damage. Maple’s white Honda was taken by police after her arrest.------------NEWTON, Kan. —Police have located the vehicle and driver involved in fatal hit-and-run that occurred Monday morning in Newton, according to a social media report from Newton Police.The City of Newton identified the victim as 64-year-old Laurie Robinson of Newton.&nbsp; She was killed in the hit-and-run on Southeast 24th Street just east of I-135 in Newton.

Driver enters plea for hit-and-run that killed Kansas woman

A well renowned award winning Kansan columnist, author and journalist spoke about his recently published <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> column&nbsp;at a Salina church, about the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that happened on Monday, August 6, 1945.

<a href="https://www.maxmccoy.com/">Max McCoy </a>originally from Baxter Springs, on Sunday spoke at the&nbsp;<a href="https://uusalina.org/">Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church</a> about his in-person interview in Japan with a "Hibakusha" (word for Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors) named <a href="https://ahf.nuclearmuseum.org/ahf/profile/yoshito-matsushige/">Yoshito Matsushige</a> in 1986, 41 years after the atomic bombings. Matsushige was a Hiroshima photographer who took photos the day of the atomic bombings. His photos were later used on Life Magazine in 1952, but it was not until McCoy's article&nbsp;from the Pittsburg (KS) Morning Sun about Matsushige and other survivor's perspective of the atomic bombings, that Matsushige's photos gained worldwide attention.

McCoy arrived to Japan in 1986 as a journalist for the Pittsburg Morning Sun, after he was encouraged to apply for a travel grant program. His editors of the Pittsburg Morning Sun agreed to sponsor him and he was then selected as one of two American journalists sent to Japan that same year.

McCoy was given the opportunity to choose who to interview about the aftermath of the atomic bombings, and Matsushige was at the top of his list.

"I wanted to walk with him from his house, to where he took the famous photographs and I ended up interviewing about 100 other atomic bomb survivors at that time," said McCoy.&nbsp;

After McCoy's experience in Japan, he stated that he was affected 'emotionally.' He commented that he encountered having nightmares that he was in a 'nuclear hellscape, trying to find his children.'&nbsp;

Most of the people McCoy interviewed in Japan were 'defensive' when talking to someone from the US about the atomic bombings. They frequently asked him why he was doing the story and wanting interviews. His response was showing them pictures of his children.

"When they would ask me why I was doing it, I showed them pictures of my children from my wallet and told them this is why I am doing it," he said.&nbsp;

His viewpoint afterwards reinforced to him how important telling personal narratives were. McCoy studied and read many books regarding the events of the atomic bombings before his trip.&nbsp;

"The power is in the narrative of what the people went through, that is the power to shape minds and change hearts," McCoy shared.

On June 7, 2017 the United Nations (UN) passed the&nbsp;<a href="https://ahf.nuclearmuseum.org/ahf/history/treaty-prohibition-nuclear-weapons/">Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons</a>&nbsp;(TPNW), which&nbsp;prohibits the development, testing, production, manufacturing, acquisition and possession of nuclear weapons and nuclear explosives. 122 nations adopted the treaty and 70 countries have signed the treaty since it was opened for signature on September 20, 2017. The US was not of the one countries who signed the treaty, but rather boycotted the vote.

Japan is currently under US protection through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15733368#:~:text=Despite%20the%20long%20existence%20of%20the%20Japan%2DU.S.,think%20Washington%20will%20protect%20its%20alliance%20partner.">extended nuclear deterrence</a>&nbsp;(aka, 'nuclear umbrella').

However, McCoy commented that he is 'anti-nuclear.'

He stated that we are living in an era where we are 'quickly re-arming' in terms of nuclear weapon modernization. He continued to emphasize the growth of countries becoming pro-nuclear, as he thinks there will be a 'nuclear exchange' at some point.

"The odds are increasing that at some point, we will have a nuclear exchange," said McCoy. "People look at the reduction of 70,000 warheads in '86 down to 12,000 now and that is positive, but we are also gearing up now to increase our capacity and I think we are going to see those numbers climbing back up. For many decades there was an idea that nuclear war was unthinkable. Increasingly I am seeing the idea that maybe there could be a nuclear exchange without involving a global conflict, but I do not think that is realistic."

He added that he personally feels 'disheartened and disappointed,' and that he wishes more people would know the history of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, plus the 'reality of the increase of nuclear weapons.'

"Hell is real and we have had it here on earth in Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he commented. "The horror was unimaginable and it is important to be mindful of what your leaders are doing on your behalf. I think people have a sense of powerlessness to change the world, but I would say that people can change the world."

McCoy ended his speech by encouraging the audience at the church to take a photo on Tuesday and think for themselves, "what if this is the last photo I was to take." He called it the "last photo" and told the audience to be mindful of every photo they take, which could be their last.

"Let's make our photos and actions count, keep praying for peace, but for God's sake, let's act," said McCoy.

McCoy recently just won the first-place National Society of Newspaper Columnists award in the "general interest (online)" category. He previously won first-place in 2021 for humor and second-place for general interest in 2023.&nbsp;

He currently writes for the Kansas Reflector as a Sunday columnist and writes nonfiction and fictional books.

Link to McCoy's column: <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/03/its-been-80-years-since-the-atomic-bombings-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-time-to-raise-some-l/">"It's been 80 years since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Time to raise some L."</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754328886220.jpeg" alt="Max McCoy,&nbsp;award winning Kansan columnist, author and journalist speaking at the&nbsp;Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church in Salina on Sunday, August 3rd. McCoy spoke about his published&nbsp;Kansas Reflector column about survivor's perspective of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that happened Monday, August 6, 1945." />
 <figcaption>Max McCoy,&nbsp;award winning Kansan columnist, author and journalist speaking at the&nbsp;Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church in Salina on Sunday, August 3rd. McCoy spoke about his published&nbsp;Kansas Reflector column about survivor's perspective of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that happened Monday, August 6, 1945.</figcaption>
 </figure>By: NICOLAS FIERROSalina PostA well renowned award winning Kansan columnist, author and journalist spoke about his recently published <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> column&nbsp;at a Salina church, about the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki that happened on Monday, August 6, 1945.<a href="https://www.maxmccoy.com/">Max McCoy </a>originally from Baxter Springs, on Sunday spoke at the&nbsp;<a href="https://uusalina.org/">Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church</a> about his in-person interview in Japan with a "Hibakusha" (word for Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors) named <a href="https://ahf.nuclearmuseum.org/ahf/profile/yoshito-matsushige/">Yoshito Matsushige</a> in 1986, 41 years after the atomic bombings. Matsushige was a Hiroshima photographer who took photos the day of the atomic bombings. His photos were later used on Life Magazine in 1952, but it was not until McCoy's article&nbsp;from the Pittsburg (KS) Morning Sun about Matsushige and other survivor's perspective of the atomic bombings, that Matsushige's photos gained worldwide attention.McCoy arrived to Japan in 1986 as a journalist for the Pittsburg Morning Sun, after he was encouraged to apply for a travel grant program. His editors of the Pittsburg Morning Sun agreed to sponsor him and he was then selected as one of two American journalists sent to Japan that same year.McCoy was given the opportunity to choose who to interview about the aftermath of the atomic bombings, and Matsushige was at the top of his list."I wanted to walk with him from his house, to where he took the famous photographs and I ended up interviewing about 100 other atomic bomb survivors at that time," said McCoy.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754329835332.jpeg" alt="The 'A Bomb Dome' in Hiroshima stands in 2015. The dome, which was part of the city’s industrial exhibition hall, was directly beneath the atomic bomb dropped Aug. 6, 1945. photo by Max McCoy/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>The 'A Bomb Dome' in Hiroshima stands in 2015. The dome, which was part of the city’s industrial exhibition hall, was directly beneath the atomic bomb dropped Aug. 6, 1945. photo by Max McCoy/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Emotionally affected</h2>After McCoy's experience in Japan, he stated that he was affected 'emotionally.' He commented that he encountered having nightmares that he was in a 'nuclear hellscape, trying to find his children.'&nbsp;Most of the people McCoy interviewed in Japan were 'defensive' when talking to someone from the US about the atomic bombings. They frequently asked him why he was doing the story and wanting interviews. His response was showing them pictures of his children."When they would ask me why I was doing it, I showed them pictures of my children from my wallet and told them this is why I am doing it," he said.&nbsp;His viewpoint afterwards reinforced to him how important telling personal narratives were. McCoy studied and read many books regarding the events of the atomic bombings before his trip.&nbsp;"The power is in the narrative of what the people went through, that is the power to shape minds and change hearts," McCoy shared.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754331475680.jpeg" alt="McCoy showing his Kansas Reflector column during his speech at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church on Sunday, August 3rd." />
 <figcaption>McCoy showing his Kansas Reflector column during his speech at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Church on Sunday, August 3rd.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Anti-nuclear</h2>On June 7, 2017 the United Nations (UN) passed the&nbsp;<a href="https://ahf.nuclearmuseum.org/ahf/history/treaty-prohibition-nuclear-weapons/">Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons</a>&nbsp;(TPNW), which&nbsp;prohibits the development, testing, production, manufacturing, acquisition and possession of nuclear weapons and nuclear explosives. 122 nations adopted the treaty and 70 countries have signed the treaty since it was opened for signature on September 20, 2017. The US was not of the one countries who signed the treaty, but rather boycotted the vote.Japan is currently under US protection through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15733368#:~:text=Despite%20the%20long%20existence%20of%20the%20Japan%2DU.S.,think%20Washington%20will%20protect%20its%20alliance%20partner.">extended nuclear deterrence</a>&nbsp;(aka, 'nuclear umbrella').However, McCoy commented that he is 'anti-nuclear.'He stated that we are living in an era where we are 'quickly re-arming' in terms of nuclear weapon modernization. He continued to emphasize the growth of countries becoming pro-nuclear, as he thinks there will be a 'nuclear exchange' at some point."The odds are increasing that at some point, we will have a nuclear exchange," said McCoy. "People look at the reduction of 70,000 warheads in '86 down to 12,000 now and that is positive, but we are also gearing up now to increase our capacity and I think we are going to see those numbers climbing back up. For many decades there was an idea that nuclear war was unthinkable. Increasingly I am seeing the idea that maybe there could be a nuclear exchange without involving a global conflict, but I do not think that is realistic."He added that he personally feels 'disheartened and disappointed,' and that he wishes more people would know the history of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, plus the 'reality of the increase of nuclear weapons.'"Hell is real and we have had it here on earth in Hiroshima and Nagasaki," he commented. "The horror was unimaginable and it is important to be mindful of what your leaders are doing on your behalf. I think people have a sense of powerlessness to change the world, but I would say that people can change the world."<h2>Encouraging the audience</h2>McCoy ended his speech by encouraging the audience at the church to take a photo on Tuesday and think for themselves, "what if this is the last photo I was to take." He called it the "last photo" and told the audience to be mindful of every photo they take, which could be their last."Let's make our photos and actions count, keep praying for peace, but for God's sake, let's act," said McCoy.McCoy recently just won the first-place National Society of Newspaper Columnists award in the "general interest (online)" category. He previously won first-place in 2021 for humor and second-place for general interest in 2023.&nbsp;He currently writes for the Kansas Reflector as a Sunday columnist and writes nonfiction and fictional books.Link to McCoy's column: <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/03/its-been-80-years-since-the-atomic-bombings-of-hiroshima-and-nagasaki-time-to-raise-some-l/">"It's been 80 years since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Time to raise some L."</a><h2></h2>

Kansan columnist speaks at Salina church about the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man involved in a&nbsp;deadly shooting&nbsp; rampage in Wichita last fall was sentenced on Friday.

Judge Tyler Roush sentenced&nbsp;Jose A. Acosta, 33,&nbsp;to over 50 years in prison,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In May Acosta pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, aggravated robbery, criminal discharge of a firearm, attempted aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, criminal possession of a firearm, and two counts of battery.

Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter&nbsp; listed the violent incidents involving Acosta on November 22, 2024.

At 8:52 PM, Wichita Police officers were dispatched to a reported robbery involving a firearm in the 1400 block of North Otis. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Jose Antonio Acosta, pistol whipped one individual and pointed the gun at another, stealing their bicycle.

At 8:56 PM, as Acosta walked away from the robbery, he fired multiple shots into a residence in the 1400 block of North Otis. The homeowner narrowly avoided being shot, but the gunfire struck their dog.

At 9:16 PM, another victim reported an attempted carjacking that occurred near 16th&nbsp;and Broadway. Acosta allegedly struck the vehicle's window with a gun before firing several rounds at the car as the driver fled. Evidence of gunfire, including damage to the vehicle’s back window, was confirmed.

At 9:20 PM, officers investigating the area heard gunshots south of 13th and Broadway. It was determined that Acosta had engaged in a confrontation with an unidentified man at 11th and Broadway, firing multiple rounds. Detectives are actively seeking this individual.

Around the same time, Acosta confronted a woman across the street at a convenience store. Following a verbal altercation, he fired several shots at her. Fortunately, she was not injured.

At 9:26 PM, two WPD officers located Acosta near 11th and Broadway next to the stolen bicycle. After repeated commands to surrender, Acosta attempted to draw his firearm, hindered by an extended magazine. He eventually raised the weapon toward the officers, prompting them to fire. Acosta sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital with critical but non-life-threatening injuries.

During interviews with victims of the Otis robbery, officers searched Prospect Park near 13th and Main. There, they discovered the body of 40-year-old Myron Tucker of Wichita, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Investigators believe Tucker was shot around 8:49 PM, shortly before the robbery.

Acosta was released from the hospital and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732580870839.png" alt="Acosta photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Acosta photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man involved in a&nbsp;deadly shooting&nbsp; rampage in Wichita last fall was sentenced on Friday.Judge Tyler Roush sentenced&nbsp;Jose A. Acosta, 33,&nbsp;to over 50 years in prison,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In May Acosta pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, aggravated robbery, criminal discharge of a firearm, attempted aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, criminal possession of a firearm, and two counts of battery.Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter&nbsp; listed the violent incidents involving Acosta on November 22, 2024.Timeline of EventsAt 8:52 PM, Wichita Police officers were dispatched to a reported robbery involving a firearm in the 1400 block of North Otis. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Jose Antonio Acosta, pistol whipped one individual and pointed the gun at another, stealing their bicycle.At 8:56 PM, as Acosta walked away from the robbery, he fired multiple shots into a residence in the 1400 block of North Otis. The homeowner narrowly avoided being shot, but the gunfire struck their dog.At 9:16 PM, another victim reported an attempted carjacking that occurred near 16th&nbsp;and Broadway. Acosta allegedly struck the vehicle's window with a gun before firing several rounds at the car as the driver fled. Evidence of gunfire, including damage to the vehicle’s back window, was confirmed.At 9:20 PM, officers investigating the area heard gunshots south of 13th and Broadway. It was determined that Acosta had engaged in a confrontation with an unidentified man at 11th and Broadway, firing multiple rounds. Detectives are actively seeking this individual.Around the same time, Acosta confronted a woman across the street at a convenience store. Following a verbal altercation, he fired several shots at her. Fortunately, she was not injured.At 9:26 PM, two WPD officers located Acosta near 11th and Broadway next to the stolen bicycle. After repeated commands to surrender, Acosta attempted to draw his firearm, hindered by an extended magazine. He eventually raised the weapon toward the officers, prompting them to fire. Acosta sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital with critical but non-life-threatening injuries.Additional IncidentDuring interviews with victims of the Otis robbery, officers searched Prospect Park near 13th and Main. There, they discovered the body of 40-year-old Myron Tucker of Wichita, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Investigators believe Tucker was shot around 8:49 PM, shortly before the robbery.ArrestAcosta was released from the hospital and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail.&nbsp;

Prison for Kansas man wounded by police in deadly rampage

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/dee-ann-durbin">DEE-ANN DURBIN</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/anne-dinnocenzio">ANNE D’INNOCENZIO</a> Associated Press

It’s been almost 100 years since the U.S. had tariffs at the level they could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-effect-05bc12428163b9f28ef80f952cf9dafd">reach on Friday</a>.

Once President Donald&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-mexico-3b03b98296424e59c7dc19a865d21969">Trump’s planned tariffs</a>&nbsp;take effect, Americans will see an average tax of 18.3% for imported products, the highest rate since 1934, according to the Budget Lab at Yale, a non-partisan policy research center.

Late Thursday, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-effect-05bc12428163b9f28ef80f952cf9dafd">ordered new tariff rates for 66 countries</a>, the European Union, Taiwan and the Falkland Islands. Among them: a 40% tariff on imports from Laos, a 39% tariff on goods&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/switzerland-tariffs-trump-us-trade-war-3700eaf85a7eac02bb0fd52a0461176b">from Switzerland</a>&nbsp;and a 30% tariff on South African products.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trump-trade-deals-deadline-3977a3890ab7be85c0e07d5808dd2b55">Other trade partners</a>, such as Cambodia and Bangladesh, had the tax rates on their exports to the U.S. reduced from levels the president had threatened to impose. Trump postponed the start date for all of the changes from Friday until Aug. 7.

Tariffs are a tax, and U.S. consumers are likely to foot at least part of the bill. The Budget Lab estimated that prices will increase 1.8% in the short term as a result of the trade war the U.S. waged this year. That’s the equivalent of a $2,400 loss of income per U.S. household, the group said.

Companies are dealing with tariffs in various ways. Many automakers appear to be swallowing tariff costs for now. But the world’s largest eyewear maker, EssilorLuxottica, said it raised U.S. prices due to tariffs. The maker of Ray-Bans grinds lenses and sunglasses in Mexico, Thailand and China and exports premium frames from Italy.

“Retailers have been able to hold the line on pricing so far, but the new tariffs will impact merchandise in the coming weeks,” David French, chief lobbyist for the National Retail Federation, the nation’s largest retail trade group, said Friday. “We have heard directly from small retailers who are concerned about their ability to stay in business in the face of these unsustainable tariff rates.”

Here’s what we know about the tariffs and what their impact will be on U.S. consumers:

Trump unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/news-highlights/spotlights/2025/trump-announces-sweeping-new-tariffs-to-promote-us-manufacturing-risking-inflation-and-trade-wars/" target="_blank">sweeping import taxes</a>&nbsp;on goods coming into the U.S. from nearly every country in April. He said the “reciprocal” tariffs were meant to boost domestic manufacturing and restore fairness to global trade.

The president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-reciprocal-tariffs-higher-rates-china-9645cf4608a8c153e90bdd10263ccb01">paused</a>&nbsp;the country-specific tariffs a week later but applied a 10% tax to most imports. In early July, he began notifying countries that the higher tariffs would go into effect Aug. 1 unless they reached trade deals.

In announcing the new rates for dozens of countries on Thursday, Trump delayed their implementation until Aug. 7.

In the meantime, he announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/canada-tariffs-drugs-trade-7d331082f313df53c9ad66271ae8a628">35% tariff on imports from Canada</a>&nbsp;would take effect Friday. But Trump delayed action on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-mexico-3b03b98296424e59c7dc19a865d21969">Mexico</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-economy-trade-jinping-trump-bessent-5a2debf89f0f530f80b0a956800d2576">China</a>&nbsp;while negotiations continue.

Other duties not specific to countries also remained in place Friday, like a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-steel-aluminum-trade-240dbc3823ecd66d3dd05a66883f9277">50% tariff on imported aluminum and steel</a>&nbsp;announced in June.

The Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-deadline-delay-d8ffef07d944dc1d460b472e4ffd2f57">reached deals</a>&nbsp;with the European Union, Japan and South Korea that put 15% tariffs in place. A deal with the Philippines puts 19% tariffs in place while a deal with Vietnam imposes a 20% levy. This week, Trump announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-russia-india-9e388a55583e7007149819c52f0fd71b">25% tariff on goods from India</a>&nbsp;and ordered a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-brazil-tariffs-bolsonaro-lula-trade-imbalance-de4cf0669b00a76149e8f39f200af502">50% tariff on goods from Brazil</a>.

The U.S. Court of International Trade, a federal court that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-court-4a2b662a908d1d6cec057d88c5059502">specializes in trade disputes</a>, ruled in May that Trump exceeded his authority when he invoked an emergency powers law to implement tariffs.

On Thursday, an 11-judge panel of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-court-lawsuit-trade-4c289f51008f6a3a02939caa73ab5404">U.S. Court of Appeals considered the case</a>, and judges expressed skepticism that Trump could impose tariffs without congressional approval. The case is expected to wind up before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The U.S. Commerce Department said Thursday that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-federal-reserve-economy-8c9298ce80d2e40a71a17e0c3af3c292">prices rose 2.6% in June</a>, up from an annual pace of 2.4% in May and higher than the Federal Reserve’s goal of 2%. Furniture, computers and other items that often come from abroad were among the categories with higher average prices.

Wendong Zhang, an associate professor in the Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management at Cornell University, said U.S. consumers could see prices increases in the coming months for appliances and other products that contain a large amount of steel and aluminum.

But Zhang said a 15% tariff doesn’t mean prices will immediately rise by 15%. Companies were aware of the tariff deadlines, and tried to stockpile goods and take other measures to mitigate the impacts, he said.

Zhang noted that Trump’s trade deals often contain specific provisions designed to boost U.S. exports. The agreement with the European Union, for example, calls for European companies to purchase $750 billion worth of natural gas, oil and nuclear fuel from the U.S. over three years.

Some U.S. farmers could also see a potential upside, Zhang said. As part of its trade deal, Vietnam agreed to purchase $2 billion in U.S. agricultural products over three years, including corn, wheat and soybeans, according to the International Trade Council.

But Zhang cautioned that agricultural agreements tend to be short-lived. Over the longer term, the uncertainty over tariffs could cause countries like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-donald-trump-tariffs-agriculture-china-d5674c21e240acdc72cde76e474f172a">China to back away</a>&nbsp;from U.S. agricultural markets, he said.

The tariffs will almost certainly result in higher food prices, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Tax Foundation. The U.S. simply doesn’t make enough of some products, like bananas or coffee, to satisfy demand. Fish, beer and liquor are also likely to get more expensive, the foundation said.

Ben Aneff, managing partner at Tribeca Wine Merchants and president of the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance, said shoppers would see prices rise 20% to 25% at his store and others starting Friday because of tariffs and the declining value of the dollar.

“Nobody can afford to eat the tariff. It gets passed on,” Aneff said.

Aneff said shoppers haven’t felt the impact from higher duties until now because distributors and retailers accelerated shipments from France and other European Union countries earlier in the year. But with the EU’s tariff rate set to go up to 15% in a week, Aneff expects European wine prices to jump 30% in September.

Clothing and shoe prices are already creeping up

Ninety-seven percent of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-clothing-shoes-china-vietnam-8eb3c697da9541ca849f6ed52d7279b2">clothing and shoes</a>&nbsp;sold in the U.S. are imported, primarily from Asia, according to the American Apparel &amp; Footwear Association said. China leads the pack, but companies have been shifting more of their sourcing to Vietnam, Indonesia and India.

Steve Lamar, the trade group’s president and CEO, declined to estimate how much apparel and footwear prices may increase due to tariffs. But companies may offer fewer discounts or drop products starting this fall because they’re too expensive to produce, he said.

Matt Priest, president and CEO of the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America, estimates prices for shoes are starting to go up for the back-to-school shopping season. He estimates price increases in the 5% to 10% range.

Some automakers have already raised prices to counteract tariffs. Luxury sports car maker Ferrari said Thursday it was waiting for more details of Trump’s trade deal with the European Union before scaling back a 10% surcharge it put in place in April on most vehicles in the U.S.

But for the most part, automakers haven’t raised prices as they waited for details. Kelley Blue Book, which monitors car pricing, said the average U.S. new car cost $48,907 in June, which was up just $108 from May.

But that could change.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-motors-gm-stellantis-tariff-trump-ev-6b82523319408e03ae2729ab2ebb33b8">General Motors said last week</a>&nbsp;that the impact of the tariffs could get more pronounced in the third quarter of the year. GM has estimated that the tariffs will cost it $4 billion to $5 billion this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736992380075.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/dee-ann-durbin">DEE-ANN DURBIN</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/anne-dinnocenzio">ANNE D’INNOCENZIO</a> Associated PressIt’s been almost 100 years since the U.S. had tariffs at the level they could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-effect-05bc12428163b9f28ef80f952cf9dafd">reach on Friday</a>.Once President Donald&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-mexico-3b03b98296424e59c7dc19a865d21969">Trump’s planned tariffs</a>&nbsp;take effect, Americans will see an average tax of 18.3% for imported products, the highest rate since 1934, according to the Budget Lab at Yale, a non-partisan policy research center.Late Thursday, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-effect-05bc12428163b9f28ef80f952cf9dafd">ordered new tariff rates for 66 countries</a>, the European Union, Taiwan and the Falkland Islands. Among them: a 40% tariff on imports from Laos, a 39% tariff on goods&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/switzerland-tariffs-trump-us-trade-war-3700eaf85a7eac02bb0fd52a0461176b">from Switzerland</a>&nbsp;and a 30% tariff on South African products.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trump-trade-deals-deadline-3977a3890ab7be85c0e07d5808dd2b55">Other trade partners</a>, such as Cambodia and Bangladesh, had the tax rates on their exports to the U.S. reduced from levels the president had threatened to impose. Trump postponed the start date for all of the changes from Friday until Aug. 7.Tariffs are a tax, and U.S. consumers are likely to foot at least part of the bill. The Budget Lab estimated that prices will increase 1.8% in the short term as a result of the trade war the U.S. waged this year. That’s the equivalent of a $2,400 loss of income per U.S. household, the group said.Companies are dealing with tariffs in various ways. Many automakers appear to be swallowing tariff costs for now. But the world’s largest eyewear maker, EssilorLuxottica, said it raised U.S. prices due to tariffs. The maker of Ray-Bans grinds lenses and sunglasses in Mexico, Thailand and China and exports premium frames from Italy.“Retailers have been able to hold the line on pricing so far, but the new tariffs will impact merchandise in the coming weeks,” David French, chief lobbyist for the National Retail Federation, the nation’s largest retail trade group, said Friday. “We have heard directly from small retailers who are concerned about their ability to stay in business in the face of these unsustainable tariff rates.”Here’s what we know about the tariffs and what their impact will be on U.S. consumers:<h2>How we got here</h2>Trump unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/news-highlights/spotlights/2025/trump-announces-sweeping-new-tariffs-to-promote-us-manufacturing-risking-inflation-and-trade-wars/" target="_blank">sweeping import taxes</a>&nbsp;on goods coming into the U.S. from nearly every country in April. He said the “reciprocal” tariffs were meant to boost domestic manufacturing and restore fairness to global trade.The president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-reciprocal-tariffs-higher-rates-china-9645cf4608a8c153e90bdd10263ccb01">paused</a>&nbsp;the country-specific tariffs a week later but applied a 10% tax to most imports. In early July, he began notifying countries that the higher tariffs would go into effect Aug. 1 unless they reached trade deals.In announcing the new rates for dozens of countries on Thursday, Trump delayed their implementation until Aug. 7.In the meantime, he announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/canada-tariffs-drugs-trade-7d331082f313df53c9ad66271ae8a628">35% tariff on imports from Canada</a>&nbsp;would take effect Friday. But Trump delayed action on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-mexico-3b03b98296424e59c7dc19a865d21969">Mexico</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-economy-trade-jinping-trump-bessent-5a2debf89f0f530f80b0a956800d2576">China</a>&nbsp;while negotiations continue.Other duties not specific to countries also remained in place Friday, like a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-steel-aluminum-trade-240dbc3823ecd66d3dd05a66883f9277">50% tariff on imported aluminum and steel</a>&nbsp;announced in June.<h2>What tariffs are in place already</h2>The Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-deadline-delay-d8ffef07d944dc1d460b472e4ffd2f57">reached deals</a>&nbsp;with the European Union, Japan and South Korea that put 15% tariffs in place. A deal with the Philippines puts 19% tariffs in place while a deal with Vietnam imposes a 20% levy. This week, Trump announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-russia-india-9e388a55583e7007149819c52f0fd71b">25% tariff on goods from India</a>&nbsp;and ordered a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-brazil-tariffs-bolsonaro-lula-trade-imbalance-de4cf0669b00a76149e8f39f200af502">50% tariff on goods from Brazil</a>.<h2>Tariffs are being challenged in court</h2>The U.S. Court of International Trade, a federal court that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-court-4a2b662a908d1d6cec057d88c5059502">specializes in trade disputes</a>, ruled in May that Trump exceeded his authority when he invoked an emergency powers law to implement tariffs.On Thursday, an 11-judge panel of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-court-lawsuit-trade-4c289f51008f6a3a02939caa73ab5404">U.S. Court of Appeals considered the case</a>, and judges expressed skepticism that Trump could impose tariffs without congressional approval. The case is expected to wind up before the U.S. Supreme Court.<h2>Tariffs are already impacting prices</h2>The U.S. Commerce Department said Thursday that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-federal-reserve-economy-8c9298ce80d2e40a71a17e0c3af3c292">prices rose 2.6% in June</a>, up from an annual pace of 2.4% in May and higher than the Federal Reserve’s goal of 2%. Furniture, computers and other items that often come from abroad were among the categories with higher average prices.Wendong Zhang, an associate professor in the Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management at Cornell University, said U.S. consumers could see prices increases in the coming months for appliances and other products that contain a large amount of steel and aluminum.But Zhang said a 15% tariff doesn’t mean prices will immediately rise by 15%. Companies were aware of the tariff deadlines, and tried to stockpile goods and take other measures to mitigate the impacts, he said.<h2>Some Americans will see benefits</h2>Zhang noted that Trump’s trade deals often contain specific provisions designed to boost U.S. exports. The agreement with the European Union, for example, calls for European companies to purchase $750 billion worth of natural gas, oil and nuclear fuel from the U.S. over three years.Some U.S. farmers could also see a potential upside, Zhang said. As part of its trade deal, Vietnam agreed to purchase $2 billion in U.S. agricultural products over three years, including corn, wheat and soybeans, according to the International Trade Council.But Zhang cautioned that agricultural agreements tend to be short-lived. Over the longer term, the uncertainty over tariffs could cause countries like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-donald-trump-tariffs-agriculture-china-d5674c21e240acdc72cde76e474f172a">China to back away</a>&nbsp;from U.S. agricultural markets, he said.<h2>Food and drink prices will climb</h2>The tariffs will almost certainly result in higher food prices, according to an analysis by the nonpartisan Tax Foundation. The U.S. simply doesn’t make enough of some products, like bananas or coffee, to satisfy demand. Fish, beer and liquor are also likely to get more expensive, the foundation said.Ben Aneff, managing partner at Tribeca Wine Merchants and president of the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance, said shoppers would see prices rise 20% to 25% at his store and others starting Friday because of tariffs and the declining value of the dollar.“Nobody can afford to eat the tariff. It gets passed on,” Aneff said.Aneff said shoppers haven’t felt the impact from higher duties until now because distributors and retailers accelerated shipments from France and other European Union countries earlier in the year. But with the EU’s tariff rate set to go up to 15% in a week, Aneff expects European wine prices to jump 30% in September.<h2>Clothing and shoe prices are already creeping up</h2>Ninety-seven percent of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-clothing-shoes-china-vietnam-8eb3c697da9541ca849f6ed52d7279b2">clothing and shoes</a>&nbsp;sold in the U.S. are imported, primarily from Asia, according to the American Apparel &amp; Footwear Association said. China leads the pack, but companies have been shifting more of their sourcing to Vietnam, Indonesia and India.Steve Lamar, the trade group’s president and CEO, declined to estimate how much apparel and footwear prices may increase due to tariffs. But companies may offer fewer discounts or drop products starting this fall because they’re too expensive to produce, he said.Matt Priest, president and CEO of the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America, estimates prices for shoes are starting to go up for the back-to-school shopping season. He estimates price increases in the 5% to 10% range.<h2>Car prices hold steady — so far</h2>Some automakers have already raised prices to counteract tariffs. Luxury sports car maker Ferrari said Thursday it was waiting for more details of Trump’s trade deal with the European Union before scaling back a 10% surcharge it put in place in April on most vehicles in the U.S.But for the most part, automakers haven’t raised prices as they waited for details. Kelley Blue Book, which monitors car pricing, said the average U.S. new car cost $48,907 in June, which was up just $108 from May.But that could change.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-motors-gm-stellantis-tariff-trump-ev-6b82523319408e03ae2729ab2ebb33b8">General Motors said last week</a>&nbsp;that the impact of the tariffs could get more pronounced in the third quarter of the year. GM has estimated that the tariffs will cost it $4 billion to $5 billion this year.

What you can expect from import taxes as the US sets new tariff rates

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY – Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop. 

Just after 10:30p.. on July 27, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on U.S. Highway 75, near 134th Road for a traffic infraction, acording to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The traffic stop led to the arrest of the driver, 48-year-old Carl Thomas Ramsey, of Topeka.  Ramsey was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of methampehtamine, criminal possession of a weapon by felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribute cocaine, criminal use of weapons; possession of firearm by person addicted/use controlled substance and no drug tax stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753809979269.png" alt="Ramsey-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Ramsey-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY – Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop. Just after 10:30p.. on July 27, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on U.S. Highway 75, near 134th Road for a traffic infraction, acording to Sheriff Tim Morse.The traffic stop led to the arrest of the driver, 48-year-old Carl Thomas Ramsey, of Topeka. Ramsey was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of methampehtamine, criminal possession of a weapon by felon, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribute cocaine, criminal use of weapons; possession of firearm by person addicted/use controlled substance and no drug tax stamp.

Sheriff: Kansas felon accused of selling cocaine

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hillel-italie">HILLEL ITALIE</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — Former Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;will have a memoir out in the fall on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-democratic-presidential-nomination-eb43b6b346cc644b2d195315cb2bfb20">her historic presidential run</a>.

The book is called “107 Days,” the length of her abbreviated campaign, and will be published by Simon &amp; Schuster on Sept. 23.

On Wednesday, she announced that she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-california-governor-2026-eeea5d7315d65cebb50692c5311379fb">will not run for California governor</a>&nbsp;in 2026, but she is still regarded as a potential presidential candidate for 2028. CBS Television announced that Harris will appear Thursday night on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” her first interview since the election.

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hillel-italie">HILLEL ITALIE</a>NEW YORK (AP) — Former Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;will have a memoir out in the fall on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-democratic-presidential-nomination-eb43b6b346cc644b2d195315cb2bfb20">her historic presidential run</a>.The book is called “107 Days,” the length of her abbreviated campaign, and will be published by Simon &amp; Schuster on Sept. 23.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What the world saw on the campaign trail was only part of the story. My new book is a behind-the-scenes look at my experience leading the shortest presidential campaign in modern history. 107 Days is out on September 23. I can&#39;t wait for you to read it: <a href="https://t.co/G4bkeZB4NZ">https://t.co/G4bkeZB4NZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/taUof0L4hs">pic.twitter.com/taUof0L4hs</a>&mdash; Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1950904316841115711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On Wednesday, she announced that she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-california-governor-2026-eeea5d7315d65cebb50692c5311379fb">will not run for California governor</a>&nbsp;in 2026, but she is still regarded as a potential presidential candidate for 2028. CBS Television announced that Harris will appear Thursday night on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” her first interview since the election.Simon &amp; Schuster, where authors also include former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward, is calling the Harris book a “page-turning account,” with ”surprising and revealing insights.”“Kamala Harris is a singular American leader,” Karp said in a statement. “‘107 DAYS’ captures the drama of running for president better than just about anything I’ve read. It’s one of the best works of political nonfiction Simon &amp; Schuster has ever published. It’s an eyewitness contribution to history and an extraordinary story.”Financial terms for “107 Days,” which is listed at 320 pages, were not disclosed. In 2019, Penguin Books published Harris’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9a8a5861627846f9b378bf86e9c27966">“The Truths We Hold: An American Journey</a>,” timed to coincide with her presidential run for the 2020 election. Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-ca-state-wire-politics-election-2020-kamala-harris-9f15f9bae46c54de8d88ad3e8388e4be">dropped out before the first primary</a>&nbsp;but was eventually chosen by Biden to be his running mate.“Just over a year ago, I launched my campaign for President of the United States,” Harris said in a video announcement on Thursday. “107 days traveling the country, fighting for our future — the shortest presidential campaign in modern history. Since leaving office, I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on those days and with candor and reflection, I’ve written a behind-the-scenes account of that journey. I believe there’s value in sharing what I saw, what I learned, and what it will take to move forward.”Simon &amp; Schuster CEO Jonathan Karp declined to offer any specifics on what Harris will write about, including her thoughts on questions about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-pardon-fitness-reelection-interview-eb84cf6c3e201fa6100419b9fe616f8a">President Joe Biden’s fitness for office</a>, but said Harris “addresses everything we would want her to address.”Harris ended up heading the Democratic ticket after Biden dropped out last July in the wake of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-2024-lawmakers-debate-2c426f98063ab30143a7675cba10a5b4">a disastrous debate performance</a>, and she was defeated last November by Republican Donald Trump. She would have been the first woman and first woman of color to become president.