SALINE COUNTY —The Salina Police Department&nbsp; is investigating and awaiting the results of a final forensic pathologist report for a 7-week-old&nbsp; who died on July 28.

According to police they are staying in communication with Kansas City medical examiners on the child's cause of death.

Once police they receive an update, they will release that information and any further details.

SALINE COUNTY —The Salina Police Department&nbsp; is investigating and awaiting the results of a final forensic pathologist report for a 7-week-old&nbsp; who died on July 28.According to police they are staying in communication with Kansas City medical examiners on the child's cause of death.Once police they receive an update, they will release that information and any further details.

Police investigating death of 7-week-old in Salina

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A woman accused in connection with an accidental shooting that injured a 4-year-old girl was back in court on Friday for a preliminary hearing

Judge Shawn Elliott ruled 50-year-old Ana Sorto Mejia, 50, of Wichita will go to trial in the case. In April, the judge charged her with one count of aggravated endangering a child.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 2p.m. April 11, police responded to the 2500 block of E. Harry in Wichita following reports of a shooting, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders found a 4-year-old girl who had sustained a single gunshot wound to her lower torso. She was immediately transported to a local hospital with critical injuries, according to Gupilan.

After preliminary investigation, it was found that the child's guardian, identified as Sorto, left a firearm unsecured, allowing the child to access it, resulting in the child unintentionally shooting themselves.&nbsp;

Sorto will return to court in September, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744469792810.png" alt="Sorto photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Sorto photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A woman accused in connection with an accidental shooting that injured a 4-year-old girl was back in court on Friday for a preliminary hearingJudge Shawn Elliott ruled 50-year-old Ana Sorto Mejia, 50, of Wichita will go to trial in the case. In April, the judge charged her with one count of aggravated endangering a child.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before 2p.m. April 11, police responded to the 2500 block of E. Harry in Wichita following reports of a shooting, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders found a 4-year-old girl who had sustained a single gunshot wound to her lower torso. She was immediately transported to a local hospital with critical injuries, according to Gupilan.After preliminary investigation, it was found that the child's guardian, identified as Sorto, left a firearm unsecured, allowing the child to access it, resulting in the child unintentionally shooting themselves.&nbsp;Sorto will return to court in September, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. woman will go to trial for accidental shooting of 4-year-old

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran led his Kansas delegation colleagues Sen. Roger Marshall, and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Ron Estes (KS-04) in urging President Trump to make a disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe wind storms, flooding and tornadoes that occurred from June 3 through June 7, according to a statement from Moran's office.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly formally submitted the request for federal support on August 6, 2025.

“We write today in support of Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a major disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred from June 3 through June 7, 2025,”&nbsp;wrote the delegation.&nbsp;

“The aftermath of these natural disasters has left lasting impacts on the communities affected beyond when the storms have taken place.”“According to the National Weather Service, the state of Kansas experienced near record values of atmospheric moisture through a very deep layer which is more typical of a tropical environment as opposed to Kansas,”&nbsp;continued the delegation.&nbsp;

“This resulted in dangerous flash flooding across the state, with many counties experiencing the heaviest rainfall between 5-12 inches occurred.”

“Due to the extent of the damage, it will be important to have federal support available to assist rural electric cooperatives and municipally owned utilities rebuild their electric utility infrastructure,” Governor Kelly said.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management requested a joint Public Assistance Program to assess the damage caused in early June. Counties included in this letter include: Barber, Butler, Chase, Cowley, Coffey, Franklin, Greenwood, Harper, Hodgeman, Kingman, Lyon, Morris, Osage, Stanton, Sumner and Wallace.

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran led his Kansas delegation colleagues Sen. Roger Marshall, and U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Ron Estes (KS-04) in urging President Trump to make a disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe wind storms, flooding and tornadoes that occurred from June 3 through June 7, according to a statement from Moran's office.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here&#39;s a look at the two day rainfall totals that brought the significant flooding to the area. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/jCKAnTyOkE">pic.twitter.com/jCKAnTyOkE</a>&mdash; NWS Wichita (@NWSWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSWichita/status/1930311315198713936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly formally submitted the request for federal support on August 6, 2025.“We write today in support of Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a major disaster declaration for the State of Kansas following the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred from June 3 through June 7, 2025,”&nbsp;wrote the delegation.&nbsp;“The aftermath of these natural disasters has left lasting impacts on the communities affected beyond when the storms have taken place.”“According to the National Weather Service, the state of Kansas experienced near record values of atmospheric moisture through a very deep layer which is more typical of a tropical environment as opposed to Kansas,”&nbsp;continued the delegation.&nbsp;“This resulted in dangerous flash flooding across the state, with many counties experiencing the heaviest rainfall between 5-12 inches occurred.”“Due to the extent of the damage, it will be important to have federal support available to assist rural electric cooperatives and municipally owned utilities rebuild their electric utility infrastructure,” Governor Kelly said.The Kansas Division of Emergency Management requested a joint Public Assistance Program to assess the damage caused in early June. Counties included in this letter include: Barber, Butler, Chase, Cowley, Coffey, Franklin, Greenwood, Harper, Hodgeman, Kingman, Lyon, Morris, Osage, Stanton, Sumner and Wallace.

Kan. delegation asks Trump to make disaster declaration for June storm damage

NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon is now rolling out a service where its Prime members can order their blueberries and milk at the same time as basic items like batteries and T-shirts and get them within hours.

The online juggernaut said that customers in more than 1,000 cities and towns including Raleigh, North Carolina; Milwaukee; and Columbus, Ohio, now have access to fresh groceries with its free same-day delivery service on orders over $25 for Prime members, with plans to reach over 2,300 cities and towns by year-end.

Amazon called the move “one of the most significant grocery expansions” for the online retailer as it introduces thousands of perishable items into its existing logistics network. The expansion is expected to put pressure on grocery delivery services offered by such rivals as Walmart, Kroger and Target, which all saw their shares take a hit in trading Wednesday.

Amazon said that if an order doesn’t meet the minimum, members can still choose same-day delivery for a $2.99 fee. For customers without a Prime membership, the service is available with a $12.99 fee, regardless of order size.

In the past, Prime subscribers’ grocery orders were fulfilled through Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market.

Prime members pay $14.99 monthly or $139 annually.

Amazon launched its Prime membership in 2005, and it has become the gold standard for subscription services with a slew of perks including unlimited streaming with Prime Video and discounts at Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh. Walmart, which launched its membership program called Walmart + in 2020, has been racing to add more benefits. It costs $12.95 per month or $98 per year. Depending on members' location and availability, Walmart members can schedule same-day delivery for their groceries, including perishables.

“We’re continuously innovating to make grocery shopping simpler, faster, and more affordable for our customers, especially Prime members,” said Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores, in a statement. “By introducing fresh groceries into our Same-Day Delivery service, we’re creating a quick and easy experience for customers. ”

Herrington noted that customers can order milk alongside electronics; oranges, apples, and potatoes with a mystery novel; and frozen pizza at the same time as tools for their next home improvement project—and check out with one cart and have everything delivered to their doorstep within hours.

The company first tested the service in Phoenix, last year, and then added Orlando, Florida and Kansas City, Missouri, earlier this year.

Amazon noted that many of its customers were first-time Amazon grocery shoppers who now return to shop twice as often with the same-day deliver service compared to those who didn't purchase food. It also noted that based on early sales, strawberries now regularly knock AirPods out of the top five best sellers of all products sold, while bananas, Honeycrisp apples, limes, and avocados round out the top ten best-selling perishable grocery items in their same-day delivery carts.

“It's a nice step forward,” said Jason Goldberg, chief commerce strategy officer at Publicis Groupe, a global marketing and communications company. “It definitely makes them more competitive" in perishables.

Goldberg noted that Amazon has struggled to succeed in fresh food and that shoppers have been confused ordering shelf stable items and perishables, and having them appear in different online shopping carts, including Amazon Fresh. He said this move will greatly improve the experience.

Amazon said it generated over $100 billion in gross sales of groceries and household essentials last year not including sales from Whole Foods Market and Amazon Fresh.

In June, Amazon said it was investing more than $4 billion to triple the size of its delivery network by 2026, with a focus on small towns and rural communities across the country.

It also noted that it's using artificial intelligence to help it predict local customer preferences so it can stock popular items alongside items targeted for specific communities

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734613644311.png" alt="Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon is now rolling out a service where its Prime members can order their blueberries and milk at the same time as basic items like batteries and T-shirts and get them within hours.The online juggernaut said that customers in more than 1,000 cities and towns including Raleigh, North Carolina; Milwaukee; and Columbus, Ohio, now have access to fresh groceries with its free same-day delivery service on orders over $25 for Prime members, with plans to reach over 2,300 cities and towns by year-end.Amazon called the move “one of the most significant grocery expansions” for the online retailer as it introduces thousands of perishable items into its existing logistics network. The expansion is expected to put pressure on grocery delivery services offered by such rivals as Walmart, Kroger and Target, which all saw their shares take a hit in trading Wednesday.Amazon's shares rose 1%.Amazon said that if an order doesn’t meet the minimum, members can still choose same-day delivery for a $2.99 fee. For customers without a Prime membership, the service is available with a $12.99 fee, regardless of order size.In the past, Prime subscribers’ grocery orders were fulfilled through Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Market.Prime members pay $14.99 monthly or $139 annually.Amazon launched its Prime membership in 2005, and it has become the gold standard for subscription services with a slew of perks including unlimited streaming with Prime Video and discounts at Whole Foods and Amazon Fresh. Walmart, which launched its membership program called Walmart + in 2020, has been racing to add more benefits. It costs $12.95 per month or $98 per year. Depending on members' location and availability, Walmart members can schedule same-day delivery for their groceries, including perishables.“We’re continuously innovating to make grocery shopping simpler, faster, and more affordable for our customers, especially Prime members,” said Doug Herrington, CEO of Worldwide Amazon Stores, in a statement. “By introducing fresh groceries into our Same-Day Delivery service, we’re creating a quick and easy experience for customers. ”Herrington noted that customers can order milk alongside electronics; oranges, apples, and potatoes with a mystery novel; and frozen pizza at the same time as tools for their next home improvement project—and check out with one cart and have everything delivered to their doorstep within hours.The company first tested the service in Phoenix, last year, and then added Orlando, Florida and Kansas City, Missouri, earlier this year.Amazon noted that many of its customers were first-time Amazon grocery shoppers who now return to shop twice as often with the same-day deliver service compared to those who didn't purchase food. It also noted that based on early sales, strawberries now regularly knock AirPods out of the top five best sellers of all products sold, while bananas, Honeycrisp apples, limes, and avocados round out the top ten best-selling perishable grocery items in their same-day delivery carts.“It's a nice step forward,” said Jason Goldberg, chief commerce strategy officer at Publicis Groupe, a global marketing and communications company. “It definitely makes them more competitive" in perishables.Goldberg noted that Amazon has struggled to succeed in fresh food and that shoppers have been confused ordering shelf stable items and perishables, and having them appear in different online shopping carts, including Amazon Fresh. He said this move will greatly improve the experience.Amazon said it generated over $100 billion in gross sales of groceries and household essentials last year not including sales from Whole Foods Market and Amazon Fresh.In June, Amazon said it was investing more than $4 billion to triple the size of its delivery network by 2026, with a focus on small towns and rural communities across the country.It also noted that it's using artificial intelligence to help it predict local customer preferences so it can stock popular items alongside items targeted for specific communities

Amazon expands its delivery service, putting pressure on traditional grocers

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald Trump answered questions from the media prior to&nbsp;&nbsp;critical talks on Ukraine with European leaders at the White House on Monday.

A reported who was critical of Zelenskyy's appearance during a February meeting, praised what Zelenskyy was wearing for the Monday meeting and apologized for his earlier comments.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald Trump answered questions from the media prior to&nbsp;&nbsp;critical talks on Ukraine with European leaders at the White House on Monday.A reported who was critical of Zelenskyy's appearance during a February meeting, praised what Zelenskyy was wearing for the Monday meeting and apologized for his earlier comments.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">REPORTER: &quot;You look fabulous in that suit!&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I said the same thing!&quot; 🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/aRQLIOYJJC">pic.twitter.com/aRQLIOYJJC</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1957495624531865910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/brianglenntv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@brianglenntv</a>: &quot;President Zelensky, you look fabulous in that suit.&quot; President Trump: &quot;I said the same thing...that&#39;s the one that attacked you last time.&quot; President Zelensky: &quot;I remember.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/GqxHRzkVag">https://t.co/GqxHRzkVag</a> <a href="https://t.co/f6kty4fh7s">pic.twitter.com/f6kty4fh7s</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1957497115464085817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥President Zelensky wears a suit to White House meeting

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in a fatal hit-and-run will face a judge on Monday afternoon.

Gauge Brasher, 19, is scheduled to make a first appearance in court, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

&nbsp;Wichita police took Brasher&nbsp; into custody shortly after 4 p.m. Friday in the 3100 block of E. Range Road, according to a statement from Wichita Police.

Around 6:30 p.m. August 13, a nearby Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in the area saw the aftermath of fatal crash that killed&nbsp;14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa and saw two men running from a black BMW that had crashed. After a short foot pursuit, both men were apprehended.

The preliminary investigation indicated the BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit a power pole and then a utility box. The impact forced the power pole and utility box into Nzabonimpa, who died on scene from his injuries.&nbsp;

Witnesses at the intersection identified the 19-year-old suspect Gauge Brasher, who fled as the driver. He is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. The investigation indicated that impairment and speed were likely contributing factors in the collision. Brasher was admitted to the hospital for medical treatment and later left the hospital. The passenger is a 24-year-old man who was detained and later released with no charges.&nbsp;

Police investigators presented the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, and Brasher was charged with second-degree murder in the Aug. 13, crash.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755212957933.png" alt="View of the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>View of the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused in a fatal hit-and-run will face a judge on Monday afternoon.Gauge Brasher, 19, is scheduled to make a first appearance in court, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755346851465.png" alt="Brasher photo Sedgwick Co. " />
 <figcaption>Brasher photo Sedgwick Co. </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Wichita police took Brasher&nbsp; into custody shortly after 4 p.m. Friday in the 3100 block of E. Range Road, according to a statement from Wichita Police.Around 6:30 p.m. August 13, a nearby Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in the area saw the aftermath of fatal crash that killed&nbsp;14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa and saw two men running from a black BMW that had crashed. After a short foot pursuit, both men were apprehended.The preliminary investigation indicated the BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit a power pole and then a utility box. The impact forced the power pole and utility box into Nzabonimpa, who died on scene from his injuries.&nbsp;Witnesses at the intersection identified the 19-year-old suspect Gauge Brasher, who fled as the driver. He is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. The investigation indicated that impairment and speed were likely contributing factors in the collision. Brasher was admitted to the hospital for medical treatment and later left the hospital. The passenger is a 24-year-old man who was detained and later released with no charges.&nbsp;Police investigators presented the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, and Brasher was charged with second-degree murder in the Aug. 13, crash.

Suspect who hid after fatal Kansas crash will face a judge

CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting in connection with a robbery and are searching for a suspect.

Just after 11p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 300 Block of East 1st Street in Concordia after report of a man with a gunshot wound, according to a media release.

At the scene, police found the victim with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. Officers and first responders from the Concordia Fire Department rendered life-saving aid at the scene. The victim was then transported to a local hospital for additional medical treatment.

Officers secured the scene, obtained witness statement and identified individuals believed to be connected to the incident. Police detained three individuals for interviews as part of the investigation. Police also executed search warrants at the scene and a second location.&nbsp; Police are working with outside agencies in an effort to locate and apprehend the suspect.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police have forward charges of first degree attempted murder and two counts of aggravated robbery to the Cloud County Attorney.&nbsp; Police released no additional details including the possible suspect.

CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting in connection with a robbery and are searching for a suspect.Just after 11p.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 300 Block of East 1st Street in Concordia after report of a man with a gunshot wound, according to a media release.At the scene, police found the victim with a gunshot wound to his abdomen. Officers and first responders from the Concordia Fire Department rendered life-saving aid at the scene. The victim was then transported to a local hospital for additional medical treatment.Officers secured the scene, obtained witness statement and identified individuals believed to be connected to the incident. Police detained three individuals for interviews as part of the investigation. Police also executed search warrants at the scene and a second location.&nbsp; Police are working with outside agencies in an effort to locate and apprehend the suspect.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police have forward charges of first degree attempted murder and two counts of aggravated robbery to the Cloud County Attorney.&nbsp; Police released no additional details including the possible suspect.

Police: Man shot during robbery in north central Kansas

MCPHERSON COUNTY&nbsp;—One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Sunday in McPherson County.

The McPherson County Sheriff reported a GMC Acadia driven by 47-year-old Tawny O'Hara of Galva was attempting to make a left turn onto Comanche from 22nd. A Honda motorcycle driven by a 65-year-old Terrance Regehr of Galva attempted to pass the SUV.&nbsp; 

The motorcycle struck the driver's side of the Acadia. Moundridge EMS provided lifesaving aid to Regehr but he was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to the Sheriff's office.&nbsp; O'Hara was not injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

MCPHERSON COUNTY&nbsp;—One person died in an accident just after 10a.m. Sunday in McPherson County.The McPherson County Sheriff reported a GMC Acadia driven by 47-year-old Tawny O'Hara of Galva was attempting to make a left turn onto Comanche from 22nd. A Honda motorcycle driven by a 65-year-old Terrance Regehr of Galva attempted to pass the SUV.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the driver's side of the Acadia. Moundridge EMS provided lifesaving aid to Regehr but he was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to the Sheriff's office.&nbsp; O'Hara was not injured.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Kansas man dies in motorcycle, SUV crash

By&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas is making history today, honoring the voices, vision, and impact of women in sports media with the first-ever observance of Women in Sports Broadcasting Day.&nbsp;

The day was proclaimed by Gov. Laura Kelly at the urging of KSN-TV sports anchor and reporter Asia Cymone Smith, whose advocacy turned a personal mission into a statewide recognition. For Smith, the proclamation is more than a ceremonial gesture, it’s a statement of value in an industry where women still make up just 38% of sports broadcasting roles in Kansas, according to a review of recent staff directories from stations in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.&nbsp;

“It’s something that felt surreal, something that I’d been thinking about for a long time,” Smith said. “I wanted to make sure that women, us hard-working women who are also putting in work here, are recognized. This is a testament to the recognition and the work we’ve put in. And it highlights contributions of the former women in sports broadcasting and the ones to come.”&nbsp;

Smith, who also serves as Miss Kansas USA, has made women in sports broadcasting a central part of her public platform. She operates a mentorship initiative called Girls Talk Game, aimed at uplifting young girls who aspire to careers in the field through school visits, group sessions and one-on-one coaching. “I want to be the help that I always wish I had when I first got started,” she said. “I want to be that person that teaches them the ropes so they don’t have to struggle and so they have the same opportunities to learn and get the knowledge they need to succeed.”&nbsp;

That desire was shaped by her own experiences. Early in her career, she was once told, “We’re not here to hold your hand or teach you the ropes.”

It was a moment that stayed with her, and one she vowed not to repeat with the next generation.

“For every little girl who really is watching the TV news and sees us, I want them to know that it’s possible, no matter what other people tell you, when they tell you, you don’t belong in the industry,” Smith said. “Those are comments we get all the time. And I want them to know those people can’t define your success.”&nbsp;

From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.

The proclamation also honors the women who have inspired others on the national stage. It names Kansas-connected journalists such as Becky Dixon, the first woman to co-host ABC’s Wide World of Sports; Aminia Smith, a former sports journalist in Lawrence now hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter; and Kendra Douglas, a former Wichita sports anchor now working as an NBA sideline reporter. Smith said seeing them succeed at such high levels serves as proof of what’s possible. “They’re inspirations to us who are sitting here today,” she said.&nbsp;

Joining Smith in celebrating the day are KAKE-TV sports director Micaela Dea and KWCH-TV multimedia journalist Rachel Hallam. Though they work at competing stations, the three regularly cross paths on the sidelines, at press conferences and in locker rooms, and have forged a bond over shared experiences.

“We see each other all the time,” Dea said. “I knew from the onset of joining this career I wanted to be one of those women that helped other women. If I could have my small part in making that easier for the next woman, that’s amazing. And of course, I want to pay tribute to all the other women before us that have literally trailblazed the way.”&nbsp;

Dea, who became KAKE’s first female sports director last year, said she is encouraged by how far the industry has come. “I can’t imagine where it will be in the next twenty years or the next couple of decades,” she said. “But I definitely am proud to be one of those women in sports that loves to empower other women.”&nbsp;

Hallam said the observance is a meaningful acknowledgment of both the progress made and the challenges that remain. “It means everything,” Hallam said. “It’s hard to be in this industry in the first place, and then how hard it is to be a woman in this industry. Just for everybody to finally recognize that, not just ourselves and not just the other women that are in this industry, but to know that it is still a growing industry and we still have opportunities laid out in front of us.”&nbsp;

Smith said she hopes today’s recognition sparks more opportunities for women in leadership roles, production and high-profile analyst positions in men’s sports. “There’s a lot of leadership positions I think can still be filled,” she said. “Women have completely trailblazed and transformed the sideline reporter role. But why not have those same broadcasters be analysts for the NBA and for the NFL? Our perspective is important and should be shown, too.” She pointed to growing momentum in women’s sports coverage, from WNBA expansion to record-breaking college softball and volleyball crowds, as proof that the appetite is there for more women’s voices. “I think it’s continuing to grow, and that’s great to see,” she said.&nbsp;

From left, Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist; Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Sean Boston, Eagle Media sports director; and Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director, are pictured in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.

While Women in Sports Broadcasting Day is new, those celebrating it hope it becomes an annual touchpoint for progress. “I hope every girl watching sees this and thinks, ‘That can be me,’” Smith said. “Because it absolutely can.”&nbsp;

The proclamation urges Kansans to join in recognizing the achievements of women in sports media and to support ongoing efforts toward equality in the profession. For Smith, Dea and Hallam, that means continuing to show up for each other, and for the young women they hope will follow in their footsteps.&nbsp;

“We’re supposed to be competitors,” Hallam said, “but we’re constantly having each other’s backs. That’s what makes this day so important, it’s a reminder that we’re here, we can do our job, and we’re not going anywhere.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029604394.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Asia Cymone Smith" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Asia Cymone Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas is making history today, honoring the voices, vision, and impact of women in sports media with the first-ever observance of Women in Sports Broadcasting Day.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029796536.jpeg" alt="From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas." />
 <figcaption>From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.</figcaption>
 </figure>The day was proclaimed by Gov. Laura Kelly at the urging of KSN-TV sports anchor and reporter Asia Cymone Smith, whose advocacy turned a personal mission into a statewide recognition. For Smith, the proclamation is more than a ceremonial gesture, it’s a statement of value in an industry where women still make up just 38% of sports broadcasting roles in Kansas, according to a review of recent staff directories from stations in Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City.&nbsp;“It’s something that felt surreal, something that I’d been thinking about for a long time,” Smith said. “I wanted to make sure that women, us hard-working women who are also putting in work here, are recognized. This is a testament to the recognition and the work we’ve put in. And it highlights contributions of the former women in sports broadcasting and the ones to come.”&nbsp;Smith, who also serves as Miss Kansas USA, has made women in sports broadcasting a central part of her public platform. She operates a mentorship initiative called Girls Talk Game, aimed at uplifting young girls who aspire to careers in the field through school visits, group sessions and one-on-one coaching. “I want to be the help that I always wish I had when I first got started,” she said. “I want to be that person that teaches them the ropes so they don’t have to struggle and so they have the same opportunities to learn and get the knowledge they need to succeed.”&nbsp;That desire was shaped by her own experiences. Early in her career, she was once told, “We’re not here to hold your hand or teach you the ropes.”It was a moment that stayed with her, and one she vowed not to repeat with the next generation.“For every little girl who really is watching the TV news and sees us, I want them to know that it’s possible, no matter what other people tell you, when they tell you, you don’t belong in the industry,” Smith said. “Those are comments we get all the time. And I want them to know those people can’t define your success.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029796536.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From left, Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director; and Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist, pose in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.The proclamation also honors the women who have inspired others on the national stage. It names Kansas-connected journalists such as Becky Dixon, the first woman to co-host ABC’s Wide World of Sports; Aminia Smith, a former sports journalist in Lawrence now hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter; and Kendra Douglas, a former Wichita sports anchor now working as an NBA sideline reporter. Smith said seeing them succeed at such high levels serves as proof of what’s possible. “They’re inspirations to us who are sitting here today,” she said.&nbsp;Joining Smith in celebrating the day are KAKE-TV sports director Micaela Dea and KWCH-TV multimedia journalist Rachel Hallam. Though they work at competing stations, the three regularly cross paths on the sidelines, at press conferences and in locker rooms, and have forged a bond over shared experiences.“We see each other all the time,” Dea said. “I knew from the onset of joining this career I wanted to be one of those women that helped other women. If I could have my small part in making that easier for the next woman, that’s amazing. And of course, I want to pay tribute to all the other women before us that have literally trailblazed the way.”&nbsp;Dea, who became KAKE’s first female sports director last year, said she is encouraged by how far the industry has come. “I can’t imagine where it will be in the next twenty years or the next couple of decades,” she said. “But I definitely am proud to be one of those women in sports that loves to empower other women.”&nbsp;Hallam said the observance is a meaningful acknowledgment of both the progress made and the challenges that remain. “It means everything,” Hallam said. “It’s hard to be in this industry in the first place, and then how hard it is to be a woman in this industry. Just for everybody to finally recognize that, not just ourselves and not just the other women that are in this industry, but to know that it is still a growing industry and we still have opportunities laid out in front of us.”&nbsp;Smith said she hopes today’s recognition sparks more opportunities for women in leadership roles, production and high-profile analyst positions in men’s sports. “There’s a lot of leadership positions I think can still be filled,” she said. “Women have completely trailblazed and transformed the sideline reporter role. But why not have those same broadcasters be analysts for the NBA and for the NFL? Our perspective is important and should be shown, too.” She pointed to growing momentum in women’s sports coverage, from WNBA expansion to record-breaking college softball and volleyball crowds, as proof that the appetite is there for more women’s voices. “I think it’s continuing to grow, and that’s great to see,” she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755029846575.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From left, Rachel Hallam, KWCH-TV multimedia journalist; Asia Cymone Smith, KSN-TV sports anchor/reporter; Sean Boston, Eagle Media sports director; and Micaela Dea, KAKE-TV sports director, are pictured in the KWBW Radio studio in Hutchinson, Kan., on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, during an interview marking the first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day in Kansas.While Women in Sports Broadcasting Day is new, those celebrating it hope it becomes an annual touchpoint for progress. “I hope every girl watching sees this and thinks, ‘That can be me,’” Smith said. “Because it absolutely can.”&nbsp;The proclamation urges Kansans to join in recognizing the achievements of women in sports media and to support ongoing efforts toward equality in the profession. For Smith, Dea and Hallam, that means continuing to show up for each other, and for the young women they hope will follow in their footsteps.&nbsp;“We’re supposed to be competitors,” Hallam said, “but we’re constantly having each other’s backs. That’s what makes this day so important, it’s a reminder that we’re here, we can do our job, and we’re not going anywhere.”&nbsp;

Kansas marks first Women in Sports Broadcasting Day

WASHINGTON (AP) —A Federal court on Thursday ordered the Department of Agriculture to restore grants to farming organizations.

The court ruled that six grants must be restored to organizations that lost their funding after several Trump administration Executive Orders and at the direction of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The ruling “sets a strong precedent that could allow hundreds of other grants to be challenged and reinstated,” environmental nonprofit Earthjustice said in a statement.

Plaintiffs included groups that support causes like tree planting, climate-friendly farming practices and growing food in underserved communities.

The total value of the terminated grants was over $34 million, the attorneys said.

“In the wake of this ruling, we hope the USDA stops arbitrarily cancelling grants and contracts without an understanding of the work being done,” said Erin McKee, community food systems program director at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, one of the plaintiffs.

WASHINGTON (AP) —A Federal court on Thursday ordered the Department of Agriculture to restore grants to farming organizations.The court ruled that six grants must be restored to organizations that lost their funding after several Trump administration Executive Orders and at the direction of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).The ruling “sets a strong precedent that could allow hundreds of other grants to be challenged and reinstated,” environmental nonprofit Earthjustice said in a statement.Plaintiffs included groups that support causes like tree planting, climate-friendly farming practices and growing food in underserved communities.The total value of the terminated grants was over $34 million, the attorneys said.“In the wake of this ruling, we hope the USDA stops arbitrarily cancelling grants and contracts without an understanding of the work being done,” said Erin McKee, community food systems program director at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, one of the plaintiffs.

Court orders Dept. of Ag to restore grants to farm organizations

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused of child sex crimes is due back in court Monday.

A jury trial is scheduled to begin in Judge Quentin Pittman's courtroom for 39-year-old Jamie Torres-Cordero Wichita,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.

He is charged with rape, 5 counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and 2 counts of aggravated criminal sodomy.

On Sept. 7, 2024 police&nbsp; booked Torres-Cordero into the Sedgwick County Jail after&nbsp;detectives with the Exploited and Missing Children's Unit investigated possible sexual abuse occurring at a home in the 600 block of North Battin in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Police believe Torres-Cordero had engaged in unlawful sexual activity with a minor in the home multiple times over the past six years, according to Macy&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;He remains jailed on a bond of $250,000, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631312554368.png" alt="Torres-Cordero" />
 <figcaption>Torres-Cordero</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused of child sex crimes is due back in court Monday.A jury trial is scheduled to begin in Judge Quentin Pittman's courtroom for 39-year-old Jamie Torres-Cordero Wichita,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District attorney's office.He is charged with rape, 5 counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and 2 counts of aggravated criminal sodomy.On Sept. 7, 2024 police&nbsp; booked Torres-Cordero into the Sedgwick County Jail after&nbsp;detectives with the Exploited and Missing Children's Unit investigated possible sexual abuse occurring at a home in the 600 block of North Battin in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.Police believe Torres-Cordero had engaged in unlawful sexual activity with a minor in the home multiple times over the past six years, according to Macy&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He remains jailed on a bond of $250,000, according to online jail records.

Jury trial: Kan. man accused of years long sex abuse of child

CAMDEN COUNTY —A child drowned just before 12:30p.m. Sunday at Lake of the Ozarks.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Lowe Pontoon was anchored at 4.8 mile mark of the Glaize arm of the lake. The Tuscumbia, Missouri boy entered the water from the back of the boat and did not resurface. 

State Troopers recovered the child's body and he was transported to Phillips Funeral Home in Eldon. The child was not wearing a life jacket, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

CAMDEN COUNTY —A child drowned just before 12:30p.m. Sunday at Lake of the Ozarks.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Lowe Pontoon was anchored at 4.8 mile mark of the Glaize arm of the lake. The Tuscumbia, Missouri boy entered the water from the back of the boat and did not resurface. State Troopers recovered the child's body and he was transported to Phillips Funeral Home in Eldon. The child was not wearing a life jacket, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Patrol: 3-year-old drowns at Lake of the Ozarks

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 12:15a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1700 block of E 97th Street in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported sound of shots, according to Officer&nbsp; Alayna Gonzalez.

As they approached the scene, &nbsp;a bystander flagged down &nbsp;officers and reports several people were involved in an altercation that lead to gunfire in a nearby parking lot.

 All involved individuals were observed fleeing in unknown directions prior to police arrival. Officers were notified that a 14-year-old boy and a girl under age 16 arrived to an area hospital suffering from gunshot wounds

The boy, identified as Teandre Gibson was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The girl had non-life threatening injuries. 

Police had no details indicating what lead up to the shooting and have not reported an arrest.. This incident is being investigated as a homicide.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755433938342.png" alt="Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just after 12:15a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1700 block of E 97th Street in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported sound of shots, according to Officer&nbsp; Alayna Gonzalez.As they approached the scene, &nbsp;a bystander flagged down &nbsp;officers and reports several people were involved in an altercation that lead to gunfire in a nearby parking lot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755434009656.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure> All involved individuals were observed fleeing in unknown directions prior to police arrival. Officers were notified that a 14-year-old boy and a girl under age 16 arrived to an area hospital suffering from gunshot woundsThe boy, identified as Teandre Gibson was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The girl had non-life threatening injuries. Police had no details indicating what lead up to the shooting and have not reported an arrest.. This incident is being investigated as a homicide.

Homicide: 14-year-old KC boy dead, girl hospitalized 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukraine’s future could hinge on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/european-leaders-white-house-meeting-zelenskyy-trump-d7b082bae4136ef8932e16ac2d166303">hastily assembled meeting</a>&nbsp;Monday at the White House as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy brings with him an extraordinary cadre of European leaders to show U.S. President Donald Trump a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-european-statement-084569cce3a6b383325b0a8efa37bc6e">united front against Russia</a>.

The European political heavy-hitters were left out of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-alaska-russia-ukraine-a7b167f17a3e06fbce2f583c93f8bae1">Trump’s summit</a>&nbsp;with Russian President Vladimir Putin last Friday, and they are looking to safeguard Ukraine and the continent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-witkoff-ukraine-russia-putin-war-048aa829a69b4020ca368577bfe18aee">from any widening aggression</a>&nbsp;from Moscow.

By arriving as a group, they hope to avoid any debacles like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-security-guarantees-trump-meeting-washington-eebdf97b663c2cdc9e51fa346b09591d">Zelenskyy’s February meeting in the Oval Office</a>, where Trump chastised him for not showing enough gratitude for American military aid. The meeting also is a test of America’s relationship with its closest allies after the European Union and United Kingdom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-trump-security-tariffs-ukraine-russia-cb323423c4317c89410c0dee3d389753">accepted Trump’s tariff hikes</a>&nbsp;partly because they wanted his support on Ukraine.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740795067290.png" alt="File photo from the contentious February meeting&nbsp; Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had at the White House.-image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>File photo from the contentious February meeting&nbsp; Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had at the White House.-image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukraine’s future could hinge on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/european-leaders-white-house-meeting-zelenskyy-trump-d7b082bae4136ef8932e16ac2d166303">hastily assembled meeting</a>&nbsp;Monday at the White House as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy brings with him an extraordinary cadre of European leaders to show U.S. President Donald Trump a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-european-statement-084569cce3a6b383325b0a8efa37bc6e">united front against Russia</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/NIFG5GjBnf">pic.twitter.com/NIFG5GjBnf</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1957251015138263110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I have already arrived in Washington, tomorrow I am meeting with President Trump. Tomorrow we are also speaking with European leaders. I am grateful to <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> for the invitation. We all share a strong desire to end this war quickly and reliably. And peace must be lasting. Not…&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1957271398902039032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This afternoon, I will welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a> in Brussels. Together, we will participate in the Coalition of Willing VTC. At the request of President Zelenskyy, I will join the meeting with President Trump and other European leaders in the White House tomorrow.&mdash; Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1957015978383999422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a>: &quot;You can&#39;t have a deal between two warring factions unless both sides agree to give up something and both sides agree that the other side gets something... Ultimately, where this should lead is to a meeting between the three leaders.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/XOp6SFFkDo">pic.twitter.com/XOp6SFFkDo</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1957086054776742133?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇺🇦 <a href="https://t.co/GmIpLNh6OP">pic.twitter.com/GmIpLNh6OP</a>&mdash; MFA of Ukraine 🇺🇦 (@MFA_Ukraine) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_Ukraine/status/1954074196536938656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The European political heavy-hitters were left out of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-alaska-russia-ukraine-a7b167f17a3e06fbce2f583c93f8bae1">Trump’s summit</a>&nbsp;with Russian President Vladimir Putin last Friday, and they are looking to safeguard Ukraine and the continent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-witkoff-ukraine-russia-putin-war-048aa829a69b4020ca368577bfe18aee">from any widening aggression</a>&nbsp;from Moscow.By arriving as a group, they hope to avoid any debacles like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-security-guarantees-trump-meeting-washington-eebdf97b663c2cdc9e51fa346b09591d">Zelenskyy’s February meeting in the Oval Office</a>, where Trump chastised him for not showing enough gratitude for American military aid. The meeting also is a test of America’s relationship with its closest allies after the European Union and United Kingdom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-trump-security-tariffs-ukraine-russia-cb323423c4317c89410c0dee3d389753">accepted Trump’s tariff hikes</a>&nbsp;partly because they wanted his support on Ukraine.

European leaders rush to White House to discuss  future of Ukraine

JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri —Law enforcement authorities in Johnson County, Missouri are working to make the public aware of a new drug threat. A Narcan-resistant substance known as "purple fentanyl."

According to a social media report from the sheriff, The Johnson County&nbsp; Crime Resolution Team (CRT) detectives recently seized purple powder containing fentanyl, possibly mixed with lidocaine, originating from the Kansas City area.

"Many families have been affected by fentanyl, and countless individuals are currently struggling with addiction. This reality adds urgency to our efforts to help those in need of recovery support. It is crucial to reach out and offer assistance to those affected."

Unlike traditional opioids such as fentanyl, this purple version may include lidocaine, a local anesthetic that blocks nerve signals but does not respond to Narcan. Narcan, which reverses the effects of opioids, is ineffective against this substance.

The purple color is likely a marketing ploy to attract more users. It's important to note that this color does not indicate the presence of a specific chemical but rather serves to appeal to potential users.

This mixture could intensify the side effects of the drugs, making it even more dangerous. There may also be other variants with different substances, including xylazine, which pose further risks as they are also Narcan-resistant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755512118804.png" alt="Photos Johnson County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Johnson County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri —Law enforcement authorities in Johnson County, Missouri are working to make the public aware of a new drug threat. A Narcan-resistant substance known as "purple fentanyl."According to a social media report from the sheriff, The Johnson County&nbsp; Crime Resolution Team (CRT) detectives recently seized purple powder containing fentanyl, possibly mixed with lidocaine, originating from the Kansas City area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755512145422.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>"Many families have been affected by fentanyl, and countless individuals are currently struggling with addiction. This reality adds urgency to our efforts to help those in need of recovery support. It is crucial to reach out and offer assistance to those affected."Unlike traditional opioids such as fentanyl, this purple version may include lidocaine, a local anesthetic that blocks nerve signals but does not respond to Narcan. Narcan, which reverses the effects of opioids, is ineffective against this substance.The purple color is likely a marketing ploy to attract more users. It's important to note that this color does not indicate the presence of a specific chemical but rather serves to appeal to potential users.This mixture could intensify the side effects of the drugs, making it even more dangerous. There may also be other variants with different substances, including xylazine, which pose further risks as they are also Narcan-resistant.

Sheriff's warns of Narcan-resistant ‘purple fentanyl’ in KC area 

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement in southwest Kansas have a homicide suspect in custody after an incident at a motel.

Just after 5:30 p.m., August 13, police &nbsp;responded to a business assist call at the Best Western – Emerald Inn &amp; Suites, 2412 E. Kansas Avenue in Garden City, according to a media release from police. 

Motel staff reported that a man was refusing to leave and requested he be criminally trespassed. After arriving, officers made contact with 61-year-old &nbsp;James Eaton. During the investigation, police discovered Eaton had an outstanding felony warrant out of Maryland for failing to appear in court on multiple charges, including homicide. 

Eaton was taken into custody and remains in the Finney County Jail for the out-of-state warrant. &nbsp;Police released no additional details on the charges against Eaton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755457602272.png" alt="Eaton photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Eaton photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement in southwest Kansas have a homicide suspect in custody after an incident at a motel.Just after 5:30 p.m., August 13, police &nbsp;responded to a business assist call at the Best Western – Emerald Inn &amp; Suites, 2412 E. Kansas Avenue in Garden City, according to a media release from police. Motel staff reported that a man was refusing to leave and requested he be criminally trespassed. After arriving, officers made contact with 61-year-old &nbsp;James Eaton. During the investigation, police discovered Eaton had an outstanding felony warrant out of Maryland for failing to appear in court on multiple charges, including homicide. Eaton was taken into custody and remains in the Finney County Jail for the out-of-state warrant. &nbsp;Police released no additional details on the charges against Eaton.

Maryland homicide suspect jailed in SW Kansas

The U.S. Military had the opportunity to perform just before the start of the historic summit on Friday in Alaska. &nbsp;The performance lasted just a moment but certainly made an impression on those who saw it.

When President Donald Trump welcomed Russian leader Vladimir Putin to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, a B-2 bomber from Whiteman Air Force Base &nbsp;and four F35 fighter jets flew over the base.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The flyover was among the most successful portions of the historic meeting.&nbsp;Whiteman is located approximately 70 miles southeast of Kansas City.

The U.S. Military had the opportunity to perform just before the start of the historic summit on Friday in Alaska. &nbsp;The performance lasted just a moment but certainly made an impression on those who saw it.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">HAPPENING NOW! <a href="https://t.co/5OBEWIttVv">https://t.co/5OBEWIttVv</a> <a href="https://t.co/s9KIftc3ZW">pic.twitter.com/s9KIftc3ZW</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1956435635818070211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">8/15/25 | Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska… 🇺🇸🦅 <a href="https://t.co/hjnYbfinLh">pic.twitter.com/hjnYbfinLh</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1956503820206489970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>When President Donald Trump welcomed Russian leader Vladimir Putin to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, a B-2 bomber from Whiteman Air Force Base &nbsp;and four F35 fighter jets flew over the base.&nbsp;&nbsp;The flyover was among the most successful portions of the historic meeting.&nbsp;Whiteman is located approximately 70 miles southeast of Kansas City.

🎥B-2 stealth bomber flyover at Trump-Putin summit

KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court for distributing fentanyl, which resulted in three overdose deaths in Belton and Raymore, Missouri as part of a drug-trafficking conspiracy, according to the United State's Attorney.

Tiger Dean Draggoo, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 40 years in federal prison without parole.

On Oct. 16, 2024, Draggoo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and three counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death.

Draggoo admitted that during his fentanyl distribution conspiracy, on three separate occasions the fentanyl he sold caused the death of the purchaser, one of which was a juvenile.

“This case is a sad reminder of the horrific damage and destruction that fentanyl can have in our community.&nbsp; It is also a stern reminder to those who seek to make a profit off dealing fentanyl will be vigorously investigated, prosecuted, and incarcerated,” R. Matthew Price United States Attorney.&nbsp; “I want to express my condolences to the family members of the victims and thank our law enforcement partners and United States Attorney’s Office staff who worked on this case.&nbsp; I know that the sentence does not bring back their loved ones but hope that the lengthy sentence brings some measure of peace that justice was served for the individual responsible for providing the drug that killed their loved one.”

"Armed, violent criminals who traffic deadly fentanyl into our communities and prey on the most vulnerable pose an immediate threat to everyone’s safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Jackson County Drug Task Force and the United States Attorney’s Office, whose collaborative work not only delivered justice, but has put an end to this devastating path."

“This case further highlights the terrible effect fentanyl continues to have on public safety. The FBI is dedicated to work with all our local, state and federal partners to crush those that supply and sell fentanyl and other drugs within our communities,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus.

Draggoo also admitted that the investigation established that he was responsible for distributing or possessing at least 22,364 pills that contained a total of 2,460 grams of fentanyl.&nbsp; As part of the investigation, during a search of Tiger Draggoo’s apartment, law enforcement found 17 firearms, including two machine guns, ammunition of various calibers, $246,769 in cash, a ballistic vest with plates, a money counter, numerous pills that contained fentanyl, eight suspected LSD tabs, and marijuana. The 17 firearms included a Del-Ton 5.56-caliber rifle (converted into a machine gun), a Glock switch (used to convert a Glock pistol into a machine gun), three Marlin .22-caliber rifles, a Norinco 7.62-caliber rifle, a Mosin-Nagant rifle, an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber rifle, a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, an Armscorp USA .308-caliber rifle, a Century Arms 7.62-caliber rifle, a Herbert Schmidt .22-caliber revolver, a New England Firearms .22-caliber revolver, a Kimber 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, and a Metro Arms .45-caliber pistol.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the Jackson County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Belton, Mo., Police Department, the Raymore, Mo., Police Department, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696014760468.png" alt="Draggoo photo Lee's Summit Police" />
 <figcaption>Draggoo photo Lee's Summit Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court for distributing fentanyl, which resulted in three overdose deaths in Belton and Raymore, Missouri as part of a drug-trafficking conspiracy, according to the United State's Attorney.Tiger Dean Draggoo, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to 40 years in federal prison without parole.On Oct. 16, 2024, Draggoo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and three counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death.Draggoo admitted that during his fentanyl distribution conspiracy, on three separate occasions the fentanyl he sold caused the death of the purchaser, one of which was a juvenile.“This case is a sad reminder of the horrific damage and destruction that fentanyl can have in our community.&nbsp; It is also a stern reminder to those who seek to make a profit off dealing fentanyl will be vigorously investigated, prosecuted, and incarcerated,” R. Matthew Price United States Attorney.&nbsp; “I want to express my condolences to the family members of the victims and thank our law enforcement partners and United States Attorney’s Office staff who worked on this case.&nbsp; I know that the sentence does not bring back their loved ones but hope that the lengthy sentence brings some measure of peace that justice was served for the individual responsible for providing the drug that killed their loved one.”"Armed, violent criminals who traffic deadly fentanyl into our communities and prey on the most vulnerable pose an immediate threat to everyone’s safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Jackson County Drug Task Force and the United States Attorney’s Office, whose collaborative work not only delivered justice, but has put an end to this devastating path."“This case further highlights the terrible effect fentanyl continues to have on public safety. The FBI is dedicated to work with all our local, state and federal partners to crush those that supply and sell fentanyl and other drugs within our communities,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus.Draggoo also admitted that the investigation established that he was responsible for distributing or possessing at least 22,364 pills that contained a total of 2,460 grams of fentanyl.&nbsp; As part of the investigation, during a search of Tiger Draggoo’s apartment, law enforcement found 17 firearms, including two machine guns, ammunition of various calibers, $246,769 in cash, a ballistic vest with plates, a money counter, numerous pills that contained fentanyl, eight suspected LSD tabs, and marijuana. The 17 firearms included a Del-Ton 5.56-caliber rifle (converted into a machine gun), a Glock switch (used to convert a Glock pistol into a machine gun), three Marlin .22-caliber rifles, a Norinco 7.62-caliber rifle, a Mosin-Nagant rifle, an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber rifle, a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun, an Armscorp USA .308-caliber rifle, a Century Arms 7.62-caliber rifle, a Herbert Schmidt .22-caliber revolver, a New England Firearms .22-caliber revolver, a Kimber 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, and a Metro Arms .45-caliber pistol.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brad K. Kavanaugh and Robert Smith. It was investigated by the Jackson County Drug Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Belton, Mo., Police Department, the Raymore, Mo., Police Department, the Cass County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI.

KC man going to prison for 3 fentanyl overdose deaths

BY&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/collin-binkley">COLLIN BINKLEY</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — Teachers, social workers, nurses and other public workers would be cut off from a popular&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-public-service-trump-145f6a07a477e5c82f4374bc89e1eea7">student loan cancellation program</a>&nbsp;if the Trump administration finds their employer engaged in activities with a “substantial illegal purpose,” under a new federal proposal released on Friday.

The Education Department took aim at nonprofits or government bodies that work with immigrants and transgender youth, releasing plans to overhaul the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-cancellation-forgiveness-debt-774b0ee69f911f68f646a066031ee604">Public Service Loan Forgiveness program</a>. Opponents fear the new policy would turn the loan forgiveness benefit into a tool of political retribution.

The proposal would give the education secretary the final say in deciding whether a group or government entity should be excluded from the program, which was created by Congress in 2007 to encourage more college graduates to enter lower-paying public service fields. The proposal says illegal activity includes the trafficking or “chemical castration” of children, illegal immigration and supporting foreign terrorist organizations. “Chemical castration” is defined as using hormone therapy or drugs that delay puberty —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-gender-affirming-care-lawsuit-hospitals-dfc156f4bffcf4b6136658207488d17d">gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;common for transgender children or teens.

President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-service-student-loan-forgiveness-trump-457a24f8dba3c52dfe58f1e72ba61fa4">ordered the changes</a>&nbsp;in March, saying the loan forgiveness program was steering taxpayer money to “activist organizations” that pose a threat to national security and do not serve the public.

The public will be given 30 days to weigh in on the proposal before it can be finalized. Any changes would take effect in July 2026.

Under current rules, government employees and many nonprofit workers can get their federal student loans canceled after they’ve made 10 years of payments. The program is open to government workers, including teachers, firefighters and employees of public hospitals, along with nonprofits that focus on certain areas.

The new proposal would exclude employees of any organization tied to an activity deemed illegal. The Education Department predicts that fewer than 10 organizations would be deemed ineligible per year. It doesn’t expect a “significant reduction” in the percentage of borrowers who would be granted forgiveness under the program, according to the proposal.

Yet the agency acknowledges that not all industries would be affected evenly. Schools, universities, health care providers, social workers and legal services organizations are among those most likely to have their eligibility jeopardized, the department wrote.&nbsp;

It did not give more specifics about what “illegal” actions those groups were taking that could bar them from the program. But the proposal suggests that performing gender-affirming care in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-care-minors-ban-supreme-court-tennessee-2222e833fdbb51d5afb93a09fd47fc43">27 states that outlaw it</a>&nbsp;would be enough.&nbsp;

If a state or federal court rules against an employer, that could lead to its expulsion from the program, or if the employer is involved in a legal settlement that includes an admission of wrongdoing.

Even without a legal finding, however, the education secretary could determine independently that an organization should be ejected.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/linda-mcmahon-trump-education-secretary-wwe-613016d0c164b89765af761404cbb123">The secretary</a>&nbsp;could judge whether an organization participated in illegal activity by using a legal standard known as the “preponderance of the evidence” — meaning it’s more likely than not that an accusation is true.

Once an organization is barred from the program, its workers’ future loan payments would no longer count toward cancellation. They would have to find work at another eligible employer to keep making progress toward forgiveness. A ban from the Education Department would last 10 years or until the employer completed a “corrective action plan” approved by the secretary.

Critics blasted the proposal as an illegal attempt to weaponize student loan cancellation. Kristin McGuire, CEO of the nonprofit Young Invincibles, which advocates for loan forgiveness, called it a political stunt designed to confuse borrowers.

“By using a distorted and overly broad definition of ‘illegal activities,’ the Trump administration is exploiting the student loan system to attack political opponents,” McGuire said in a statement.

The Education Department sketched out its plans for the overhaul during a federal rulemaking process that began in June. The agency gathered a panel of experts to help hash out the details — a process known as negotiated rulemaking. But the panel failed to reach a consensus, which freed the department to move forward with a proposal of its own design.

The proposal released on Friday included some changes meant to ease concerns raised by the expert panel. Some had worried the department would ban organizations merely for supporting transgender rights, even if they have no direct involvement in gender-affirming care. The new proposal clarifies that the secretary would not expel organizations for exercising their First Amendment rights.

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/" target="_blank">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/" target="_blank">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755204689376.png" alt="Education Secretary Linda McMahon" />
 <figcaption>Education Secretary Linda McMahon</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/collin-binkley">COLLIN BINKLEY</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — Teachers, social workers, nurses and other public workers would be cut off from a popular&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-public-service-trump-145f6a07a477e5c82f4374bc89e1eea7">student loan cancellation program</a>&nbsp;if the Trump administration finds their employer engaged in activities with a “substantial illegal purpose,” under a new federal proposal released on Friday.The Education Department took aim at nonprofits or government bodies that work with immigrants and transgender youth, releasing plans to overhaul the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-cancellation-forgiveness-debt-774b0ee69f911f68f646a066031ee604">Public Service Loan Forgiveness program</a>. Opponents fear the new policy would turn the loan forgiveness benefit into a tool of political retribution.The proposal would give the education secretary the final say in deciding whether a group or government entity should be excluded from the program, which was created by Congress in 2007 to encourage more college graduates to enter lower-paying public service fields. The proposal says illegal activity includes the trafficking or “chemical castration” of children, illegal immigration and supporting foreign terrorist organizations. “Chemical castration” is defined as using hormone therapy or drugs that delay puberty —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-gender-affirming-care-lawsuit-hospitals-dfc156f4bffcf4b6136658207488d17d">gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;common for transgender children or teens.President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-service-student-loan-forgiveness-trump-457a24f8dba3c52dfe58f1e72ba61fa4">ordered the changes</a>&nbsp;in March, saying the loan forgiveness program was steering taxpayer money to “activist organizations” that pose a threat to national security and do not serve the public.The public will be given 30 days to weigh in on the proposal before it can be finalized. Any changes would take effect in July 2026.Under current rules, government employees and many nonprofit workers can get their federal student loans canceled after they’ve made 10 years of payments. The program is open to government workers, including teachers, firefighters and employees of public hospitals, along with nonprofits that focus on certain areas.The new proposal would exclude employees of any organization tied to an activity deemed illegal. The Education Department predicts that fewer than 10 organizations would be deemed ineligible per year. It doesn’t expect a “significant reduction” in the percentage of borrowers who would be granted forgiveness under the program, according to the proposal.Yet the agency acknowledges that not all industries would be affected evenly. Schools, universities, health care providers, social workers and legal services organizations are among those most likely to have their eligibility jeopardized, the department wrote.&nbsp;It did not give more specifics about what “illegal” actions those groups were taking that could bar them from the program. But the proposal suggests that performing gender-affirming care in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-care-minors-ban-supreme-court-tennessee-2222e833fdbb51d5afb93a09fd47fc43">27 states that outlaw it</a>&nbsp;would be enough.&nbsp;If a state or federal court rules against an employer, that could lead to its expulsion from the program, or if the employer is involved in a legal settlement that includes an admission of wrongdoing.Even without a legal finding, however, the education secretary could determine independently that an organization should be ejected.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/linda-mcmahon-trump-education-secretary-wwe-613016d0c164b89765af761404cbb123">The secretary</a>&nbsp;could judge whether an organization participated in illegal activity by using a legal standard known as the “preponderance of the evidence” — meaning it’s more likely than not that an accusation is true.Once an organization is barred from the program, its workers’ future loan payments would no longer count toward cancellation. They would have to find work at another eligible employer to keep making progress toward forgiveness. A ban from the Education Department would last 10 years or until the employer completed a “corrective action plan” approved by the secretary.Critics blasted the proposal as an illegal attempt to weaponize student loan cancellation. Kristin McGuire, CEO of the nonprofit Young Invincibles, which advocates for loan forgiveness, called it a political stunt designed to confuse borrowers.“By using a distorted and overly broad definition of ‘illegal activities,’ the Trump administration is exploiting the student loan system to attack political opponents,” McGuire said in a statement.The Education Department sketched out its plans for the overhaul during a federal rulemaking process that began in June. The agency gathered a panel of experts to help hash out the details — a process known as negotiated rulemaking. But the panel failed to reach a consensus, which freed the department to move forward with a proposal of its own design.The proposal released on Friday included some changes meant to ease concerns raised by the expert panel. Some had worried the department would ban organizations merely for supporting transgender rights, even if they have no direct involvement in gender-affirming care. The new proposal clarifies that the secretary would not expel organizations for exercising their First Amendment rights.___The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/" target="_blank">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/" target="_blank">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Some would be excluded from student loan forgiveness program for ‘illegal’ activity

ELIS COUNTY—One person is dead following a police standoff in Hays.

At approximately 11:40 p.m., Saturday, police responded to a report of domestic violence at a residence in Hays, according to a media release.

The report was made by a child inside the home, claiming a physical altercation was underway between and a man and woman, and that the man was in possession of a firearm. Two other minors were identified to be inside.

After initial contact with the man, he refused to exit, or allow others to exit, and the immediate area was secured by responding officers.

The Hays Police Special Situational Response Team, along with Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team, including a crisis negotiator, were called to assist.

Following negotiations with the subject, the adult woman was allowed to exit the residence at around 1:22 a.m., Sunday Aug. 17. She was found to have trauma to the head and was taken to HaysMed for evaluation. She was later transferred to a Wichita hospital.

At around 6:42 a.m. the minors were allowed to exit. They were not found to have been physically harmed and have been released to family.

As negotiations continued, a gunshot was heard by officers.

Electronic surveillance was used to investigate inside. Officers then made entry. The subject was found to have what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was declared deceased on the scene at around 8:15 a.m., by responding EMS.

Pending notification to the family, the name of the subject, and location of the incident will not be released at this time.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigations has been requested to assist with the ongoing investigation.

ELIS COUNTY—One person is dead following a police standoff in Hays.At approximately 11:40 p.m., Saturday, police responded to a report of domestic violence at a residence in Hays, according to a media release.The report was made by a child inside the home, claiming a physical altercation was underway between and a man and woman, and that the man was in possession of a firearm. Two other minors were identified to be inside.After initial contact with the man, he refused to exit, or allow others to exit, and the immediate area was secured by responding officers.The Hays Police Special Situational Response Team, along with Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team, including a crisis negotiator, were called to assist.Following negotiations with the subject, the adult woman was allowed to exit the residence at around 1:22 a.m., Sunday Aug. 17. She was found to have trauma to the head and was taken to HaysMed for evaluation. She was later transferred to a Wichita hospital.At around 6:42 a.m. the minors were allowed to exit. They were not found to have been physically harmed and have been released to family.As negotiations continued, a gunshot was heard by officers.Electronic surveillance was used to investigate inside. Officers then made entry. The subject was found to have what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was declared deceased on the scene at around 8:15 a.m., by responding EMS.Pending notification to the family, the name of the subject, and location of the incident will not be released at this time.The Kansas Bureau of Investigations has been requested to assist with the ongoing investigation.

Police: Man dead, woman injured after standoff in Hays

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The lesser prairie chicken, a dancing grouse that has long teetered between threatened and endangered classifications, lost its federal protections in court in a victory for Great Plains petroleum and cattle industries.

In a Tuesday decision from a Texas federal court, the lesser prairie chicken was stripped of any endangered or threatened species protections, which were established through a Biden-era ruling.

The Trump administration challenged that ruling, arguing it contained mistakes, and the lesser prairie chicken would be adequately protected without endangered or threatened classifications.

U.S. District Judge David Counts, a Trump appointee, agreed, denying a slate of motions in a 15-page omnibus order that reversed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/17/federal-wildlife-officials-list-lesser-prairie-chicken-as-threatened-in-kansas/">2022</a>&nbsp;classifications.

The lesser prairie chicken forages on what’s widely considered to be prime ranching and drilling land in the grasslands and brush of southwestern Kansas, southeastern Colorado, eastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma and the panhandle and south plains of Texas. The bird was first protected in 2014, a decision that was overturned a year later.&nbsp;

In the 2022 classifications, the bird’s populations were divided into a southern range in New Mexico and the southwest Texas Panhandle, where it was listed as endangered, and a northern range in Kansas, Oklahoma and the northeast Texas Panhandle, where it was listed as threatened.

More than 70% of the estimated lesser prairie chicken population resides in Kansas.

Fish and Wildlife Service admitted in the case that it erred in creating two distinct populations of lesser prairie chickens, and it failed to justify the classification of the two distinct population segments — northern and southern, Counts said.

He added that “the later endangered and threatened findings have no leg to stand on.”

“Fish and Wildlife is unable to correct this square one error without engaging in an entirely new analysis,” he said.

Counts reasoned that any “disruptive consequences” of removing protections “are short-lived and minimized by the sixteen existing voluntary conservation programs and efforts in place across the range of the lesser prairie-chicken.”

Many of those programs, which are administered by federal, state and private groups, existed before the 2022 listing decision and were designed to mitigate threats to the lesser prairie chicken and its habitat, Counts said.

“These efforts are not thought to be inadequate over the short term,” he said. “Rather, even the current listing decision couched their inadequacies in the long term — a span of 25 years.”

The decision is a win for Kansas agricultural and energy producers, said U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, who has publicly opposed listing the lesser prairie chicken since 2021. He added it is “a huge loss for radical climate activists and bureaucrats who have abused the Endangered Species Act for over a decade to hurt American agriculture and energy production.”

“Kansas farmers, ranchers and agricultural producers have always been and always will be the original conservationists of the land,” he said.

Mann was behind a bill this year that delisted the lesser prairie chicken and prevented any future efforts to relist it. However, the legislation did not progress.

Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association, said in an emailed statement that the 2022 ruling contained “significant flaws” that “disproportionately affected livestock operations.” He said the association, which was part of the lawsuit, is pleased the Trump administration is reexamining the listing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681936745789.jpeg" alt="Prairie Chicken stomp -Photo by Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>Prairie Chicken stomp -Photo by Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The lesser prairie chicken, a dancing grouse that has long teetered between threatened and endangered classifications, lost its federal protections in court in a victory for Great Plains petroleum and cattle industries.In a Tuesday decision from a Texas federal court, the lesser prairie chicken was stripped of any endangered or threatened species protections, which were established through a Biden-era ruling.The Trump administration challenged that ruling, arguing it contained mistakes, and the lesser prairie chicken would be adequately protected without endangered or threatened classifications.U.S. District Judge David Counts, a Trump appointee, agreed, denying a slate of motions in a 15-page omnibus order that reversed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/17/federal-wildlife-officials-list-lesser-prairie-chicken-as-threatened-in-kansas/">2022</a>&nbsp;classifications.The lesser prairie chicken forages on what’s widely considered to be prime ranching and drilling land in the grasslands and brush of southwestern Kansas, southeastern Colorado, eastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma and the panhandle and south plains of Texas. The bird was first protected in 2014, a decision that was overturned a year later.&nbsp;In the 2022 classifications, the bird’s populations were divided into a southern range in New Mexico and the southwest Texas Panhandle, where it was listed as endangered, and a northern range in Kansas, Oklahoma and the northeast Texas Panhandle, where it was listed as threatened.More than 70% of the estimated lesser prairie chicken population resides in Kansas.Fish and Wildlife Service admitted in the case that it erred in creating two distinct populations of lesser prairie chickens, and it failed to justify the classification of the two distinct population segments — northern and southern, Counts said.He added that “the later endangered and threatened findings have no leg to stand on.”“Fish and Wildlife is unable to correct this square one error without engaging in an entirely new analysis,” he said.Counts reasoned that any “disruptive consequences” of removing protections “are short-lived and minimized by the sixteen existing voluntary conservation programs and efforts in place across the range of the lesser prairie-chicken.”Many of those programs, which are administered by federal, state and private groups, existed before the 2022 listing decision and were designed to mitigate threats to the lesser prairie chicken and its habitat, Counts said.“These efforts are not thought to be inadequate over the short term,” he said. “Rather, even the current listing decision couched their inadequacies in the long term — a span of 25 years.”The decision is a win for Kansas agricultural and energy producers, said U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, who has publicly opposed listing the lesser prairie chicken since 2021. He added it is “a huge loss for radical climate activists and bureaucrats who have abused the Endangered Species Act for over a decade to hurt American agriculture and energy production.”“Kansas farmers, ranchers and agricultural producers have always been and always will be the original conservationists of the land,” he said.Mann was behind a bill this year that delisted the lesser prairie chicken and prevented any future efforts to relist it. However, the legislation did not progress.Matt Teagarden, CEO of the Kansas Livestock Association, said in an emailed statement that the 2022 ruling contained “significant flaws” that “disproportionately affected livestock operations.” He said the association, which was part of the lawsuit, is pleased the Trump administration is reexamining the listing.“Over the coming months,” he said, “we hope the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will take into account the voluntary conservation efforts already taking place, most of which are being done by ranchers.”Texas agencies initially sued the Fish and Wildlife Service in March 2023. Among them was the state’s railroad commission, which regulates oil and natural gas production in the state. Attorneys general in&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/12/kobach-adds-kansas-to-lawsuit-against-biden-administration-on-lesser-prairie-chicken/">Kansas</a>&nbsp;and Oklahoma and the petroleum and cattle industries later joined the suit.Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond celebrated the decision.“The listing of the species as threatened or endangered would have crippled oil and wind energy production and would have limited where and when Kansas ranchers could graze cattle on their own property,” Kobach said in a Friday news release.Drummond said in a Wednesday news release that he had called the Biden administration’s ruling “outrageous and illegal federal overreach.”“This court decision affirms we were right,” Drummond said. “Oklahoma’s cattle grazing, energy production and rural economy are no longer under siege by this unlawful regulation.”In Kobach’s initial argument in federal court, he worried Kansas would lose revenues from cattle ranching, farming, oil and gas production, wind energy production and tourism if the lesser prairie chicken’s threatened status stood. He worried the status would lead to job losses in the state, which would “further adversely impact state tax revenues, in addition to causing social instability among Kansans who lose their jobs.”Under the Endangered Species Act, the habitat and species protections that accompany a threatened or endangered status determination curtail certain land uses such as cattle ranching, oil drilling and energy production in protected habitats.Jason Rylander, legal director of the Center for Biological Diversity’s Climate Law Institute, which was an intervenor in the case, said the Trump administration’s rationale for removing the lesser prairie chicken’s protections was in bad faith.“This ruling has nothing to do with science or the law and everything to do with kowtowing to the oil and gas industry,” he said. “We won’t be silent witnesses while the Trump administration and fossil fuel companies try to carve up what’s left of these dancing birds’ habitat and doom them to extinction.”But the fight for the lesser prairie chicken is not over, Rylander said.The institute is considering its legal options, including a possible appeal of Counts’ decision and a new petition with the USFWS to relist the lesser prairie chicken.