WASHINGTON (AP) — A man was taken into custody late Tuesday after driving his car into a security barrier outside the White House, authorities said.

The U. S. Secret Service said the man crashed into the security gate at a White House entrance at 10:37 p.m. on Tuesday. The man was immediately arrested by officers from the Secret Service’s uniformed division, the agency said.

Investigators searched his car and deemed it to be safe, Secret Service officials said in a statement.

The man, whose name wasn’t immediately released, was taken to a hospital for a mental health evaluation, according to a Secret Service spokesperson. He is expected to be charged with unlawful entry and destruction of government property, the spokesperson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756996833819.png" alt="File Image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>File Image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A man was taken into custody late Tuesday after driving his car into a security barrier outside the White House, authorities said.The U. S. Secret Service said the man crashed into the security gate at a White House entrance at 10:37 p.m. on Tuesday. The man was immediately arrested by officers from the Secret Service’s uniformed division, the agency said.Investigators searched his car and deemed it to be safe, Secret Service officials said in a statement.The man, whose name wasn’t immediately released, was taken to a hospital for a mental health evaluation, according to a Secret Service spokesperson. He is expected to be charged with unlawful entry and destruction of government property, the spokesperson said.

Man arrested after driving car into security gate outside White House

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Decision allows lawsuit against Capitol Federal to proceed in Shawnee County

TOPEKA — The Kansas Supreme Court unanimously affirmed reversal of a district court judge who dismissed legal challenges to a Kansas bank’s policy on assessing overdraft fees.

The Supreme Court sent the case back to Shawnee County District Court, where Judge Merlin Wheeler had dismissed claims of plaintiffs alleging Capitol Federal Savings Bank’s practice of applying overdraft penalties on checking accounts was flawed.

One plaintiff claimed a breach of contract when Topeka-headquartered Capitol Federal charged multiple overdraft fees for repeated attempts to process a single payment that was returned for insufficient funds. Another plaintiff alleged the bank violated its contract by charging multiple fees on transactions that wouldn’t have initially overdrawn the account, but were later processed when the account was deficient.

Wheeler granted in October 2024 the bank’s motion to dismiss the plaintiffs’ petition after concluding overdraft provisions of the contract with customers mandated each report “errors or improper charges” within 30 days of receiving an account statement.

The judge said plaintiffs Jennifer Harding and Samantha Ramirez failed to comply with the bank’s “very clear notice provision” regarding challenges of fees and both were prohibited from proceeding with claims.

The Kansas Court of Appeals reversed the district court after concluding Capitol Federal’s use of the term “improper charges” in its contract wasn’t “inherently clear” to consumers. Capitol Federal, which serves clients in Missouri and Kansas, appealed to the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Justice Caleb Stegall, appointed in 2014 by Gov. Sam Brownback, wrote the unanimous opinion affirming the Court of Appeals’ view that ambiguity in Capitol Federal’s contract meant the 30-day notice provision couldn’t be applied to the bank’s overdraft fees.

“We agree with the Court of Appeals that the contractual term ‘improper charges’ is ambiguous,” Stegall wrote in the opinion. “When a court properly finds a contract to be ambiguous, the court must construe that ambiguity against the drafter. Our task, at this point, becomes simple. The ambiguity inherent in the contested phrase ‘improper charges’ must be construed against Capitol Federal to exclude the fees the bank itself imposes upon its own customers.”

The case was remanded by the Supreme Court back to district court for further proceedings. The plaintiffs have sought to represent a class action against the bank.

Harding’s lawyers filed suit in 2022 asserting Capitol Federal assessed a overdraft fee for a purchase that was authorized when she had a positive balance in her checking account. The conflict arose when a subsequent, unrelated transaction that further lowered her account balance pushed the balance into overdraft status. When the original electronic transaction was presented for settlement, the transaction was declared an overdraft and the fee charged.

Harding claimed this sequence was a violation of the bank’s customer agreement to charge a $32 overdraft fee on the original transaction.

Ramirez’ counsel alleged Capitol Federal broke the account agreement by charging a fee each time AT&amp;T attempted to collect on a $164.87 bill. She alleged nothing in the customer agreement gave Capitol Federal authority to assess the $32 overdraft fee three separate times on a single debit card item.

Here is the key portion of Capitol Federal’s contract with customers that became a focus of the court case: “If your account statement contains any errors or improper charges, you agree to notify us of any such errors or improper charges within 30 days of the date on which we mailed or otherwise made the affected statement available to you. If you do not notify us within that time, you are barred from bringing any action against us that is in any way related to the errors or improper charges.”

Kersten Holzhueter, a Kansas City, Missouri, attorney who represented Capitol Federal in oral arguments last month before the Supreme Court, said the challenged fee structure was permitted by language contained in the contract with customers. She said the 30-day limit on challenges of fees was reasonable.

“Having a bank account comes with obligations on the bank, but it also has responsibility for the account holder,” she told Supreme Court justices. “This includes an obligation to notify Capitol Federal of certain disputes.”

However, the Supreme Court decided the bank’s notice provision didn’t clearly say “improper charges” included “bank fees.”

“The context within the notice provision itself is actually focused on forgeries and alterations and is clearly concerned with fraudulent activity on a customer’s account,” Stegall wrote in the opinion. “That is, it is talking about a disputed ‘charge’ made by a third party against the balance in a customer’s account. It is confusing at best to conflate this with a ‘charge’ made by the bank against the customer for services rendered” such as covering an overdraft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761159136896.png" alt="Kansas Supreme Court Justice Caleb Stegall, right, authored the high court's unanimous opinion rejecting arguments by Capitol Federal Savings Bank, headquartered in Topeka, that plaintiffs shouldn't be allowed to pursue a lawsuit claiming the bank's customer contract didn't clearly outline rules on overdraft fees. The Supreme Court affirmed a decision by the Kansas Court Appeals against Capitol Federal, which sends the case back to Shawnee County District Court. In this image from Jan. 15, 2025, Stegall is with Supreme Court Justice Dan Biles. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Supreme Court Justice Caleb Stegall, right, authored the high court's unanimous opinion rejecting arguments by Capitol Federal Savings Bank, headquartered in Topeka, that plaintiffs shouldn't be allowed to pursue a lawsuit claiming the bank's customer contract didn't clearly outline rules on overdraft fees. The Supreme Court affirmed a decision by the Kansas Court Appeals against Capitol Federal, which sends the case back to Shawnee County District Court. In this image from Jan. 15, 2025, Stegall is with Supreme Court Justice Dan Biles. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>Decision allows lawsuit against Capitol Federal to proceed in Shawnee County</h2>TOPEKA — The Kansas Supreme Court unanimously affirmed reversal of a district court judge who dismissed legal challenges to a Kansas bank’s policy on assessing overdraft fees.The Supreme Court sent the case back to Shawnee County District Court, where Judge Merlin Wheeler had dismissed claims of plaintiffs alleging Capitol Federal Savings Bank’s practice of applying overdraft penalties on checking accounts was flawed.One plaintiff claimed a breach of contract when Topeka-headquartered Capitol Federal charged multiple overdraft fees for repeated attempts to process a single payment that was returned for insufficient funds. Another plaintiff alleged the bank violated its contract by charging multiple fees on transactions that wouldn’t have initially overdrawn the account, but were later processed when the account was deficient.Wheeler granted in October 2024 the bank’s motion to dismiss the plaintiffs’ petition after concluding overdraft provisions of the contract with customers mandated each report “errors or improper charges” within 30 days of receiving an account statement.The judge said plaintiffs Jennifer Harding and Samantha Ramirez failed to comply with the bank’s “very clear notice provision” regarding challenges of fees and both were prohibited from proceeding with claims.The Kansas Court of Appeals reversed the district court after concluding Capitol Federal’s use of the term “improper charges” in its contract wasn’t “inherently clear” to consumers. Capitol Federal, which serves clients in Missouri and Kansas, appealed to the Supreme Court.Supreme Court Justice Caleb Stegall, appointed in 2014 by Gov. Sam Brownback, wrote the unanimous opinion affirming the Court of Appeals’ view that ambiguity in Capitol Federal’s contract meant the 30-day notice provision couldn’t be applied to the bank’s overdraft fees.“We agree with the Court of Appeals that the contractual term ‘improper charges’ is ambiguous,” Stegall wrote in the opinion. “When a court properly finds a contract to be ambiguous, the court must construe that ambiguity against the drafter. Our task, at this point, becomes simple. The ambiguity inherent in the contested phrase ‘improper charges’ must be construed against Capitol Federal to exclude the fees the bank itself imposes upon its own customers.”The case was remanded by the Supreme Court back to district court for further proceedings. The plaintiffs have sought to represent a class action against the bank.Harding’s lawyers filed suit in 2022 asserting Capitol Federal assessed a overdraft fee for a purchase that was authorized when she had a positive balance in her checking account. The conflict arose when a subsequent, unrelated transaction that further lowered her account balance pushed the balance into overdraft status. When the original electronic transaction was presented for settlement, the transaction was declared an overdraft and the fee charged.Harding claimed this sequence was a violation of the bank’s customer agreement to charge a $32 overdraft fee on the original transaction.Ramirez’ counsel alleged Capitol Federal broke the account agreement by charging a fee each time AT&amp;T attempted to collect on a $164.87 bill. She alleged nothing in the customer agreement gave Capitol Federal authority to assess the $32 overdraft fee three separate times on a single debit card item.Here is the key portion of Capitol Federal’s contract with customers that became a focus of the court case: “If your account statement contains any errors or improper charges, you agree to notify us of any such errors or improper charges within 30 days of the date on which we mailed or otherwise made the affected statement available to you. If you do not notify us within that time, you are barred from bringing any action against us that is in any way related to the errors or improper charges.”Kersten Holzhueter, a Kansas City, Missouri, attorney who represented Capitol Federal in oral arguments last month before the Supreme Court, said the challenged fee structure was permitted by language contained in the contract with customers. She said the 30-day limit on challenges of fees was reasonable.“Having a bank account comes with obligations on the bank, but it also has responsibility for the account holder,” she told Supreme Court justices. “This includes an obligation to notify Capitol Federal of certain disputes.”However, the Supreme Court decided the bank’s notice provision didn’t clearly say “improper charges” included “bank fees.”“The context within the notice provision itself is actually focused on forgeries and alterations and is clearly concerned with fraudulent activity on a customer’s account,” Stegall wrote in the opinion. “That is, it is talking about a disputed ‘charge’ made by a third party against the balance in a customer’s account. It is confusing at best to conflate this with a ‘charge’ made by the bank against the customer for services rendered” such as covering an overdraft.

Kan. Supreme Court unanimously rejects bank’s overdraft fee policy as ‘ambiguous’

MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday directed drills of the country’s strategic nuclear forces that featured practice missile launches, an exercise that came as his planned summit on Ukraine with U.S. President Donald Trump was put on hold.

The Kremlin said that as part of the maneuvers involving all parts of Moscow’s nuclear triad, a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile was test-fired from the Plesetsk launch facility in northwestern Russia, and a Sineva ICBM was launched by a submarine in the Barents Sea. The drills also involved Tu-95 strategic bombers firing long-range cruise missiles.

The exercise tested the skills of military command structures, the Kremlin said in a statement.

The chief of the military’s General Staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, reported to Putin via video link that the drills were intended to “practice procedures for authorizing the use of nuclear weapons.”

While Putin emphasized that the maneuvers had been planned in advance, they came hours after President Donald Trump said Tuesday his plan for a swift meeting with Putin in Budapest was on hold because he didn’t want it to be a “waste of time.”

The decision about the meeting in Budapest, Hungary, which Trump had announced last week, was made following a call Monday between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Lavrov made clear in comments Tuesday that Russia is opposed to an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. Trump, meanwhile, has been shifting his stance all year on key issues in the conflict, including whether a ceasefire should come before longer-term peace talks, and whether Ukraine could win back land seized by Russia during almost four years of fighting.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Wednesday emphasized that the planned Putin-Trump summit needs to be thoroughly prepared.

“No one wants to waste time: neither President Trump nor President Putin,” Peskov told reporters. “These are the two presidents who are accustomed to working efficiently with high productivity. But effectiveness always requires preparation.”

The Associated Press receives support for nuclear security coverage from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.carnegie.org/" target="_blank">the Carnegie Corporation of New York</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://outrider.org/" target="_blank">Outrider Foundation</a>. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755307816617.png" alt="President Trump and Russian President Putin during their meeting in August -White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Trump and Russian President Putin during their meeting in August -White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday directed drills of the country’s strategic nuclear forces that featured practice missile launches, an exercise that came as his planned summit on Ukraine with U.S. President Donald Trump was put on hold.The Kremlin said that as part of the maneuvers involving all parts of Moscow’s nuclear triad, a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile was test-fired from the Plesetsk launch facility in northwestern Russia, and a Sineva ICBM was launched by a submarine in the Barents Sea. The drills also involved Tu-95 strategic bombers firing long-range cruise missiles.The exercise tested the skills of military command structures, the Kremlin said in a statement.The chief of the military’s General Staff, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, reported to Putin via video link that the drills were intended to “practice procedures for authorizing the use of nuclear weapons.”While Putin emphasized that the maneuvers had been planned in advance, they came hours after President Donald Trump said Tuesday his plan for a swift meeting with Putin in Budapest was on hold because he didn’t want it to be a “waste of time.”The decision about the meeting in Budapest, Hungary, which Trump had announced last week, was made following a call Monday between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.Lavrov made clear in comments Tuesday that Russia is opposed to an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. Trump, meanwhile, has been shifting his stance all year on key issues in the conflict, including whether a ceasefire should come before longer-term peace talks, and whether Ukraine could win back land seized by Russia during almost four years of fighting.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Wednesday emphasized that the planned Putin-Trump summit needs to be thoroughly prepared.“No one wants to waste time: neither President Trump nor President Putin,” Peskov told reporters. “These are the two presidents who are accustomed to working efficiently with high productivity. But effectiveness always requires preparation.”___The Associated Press receives support for nuclear security coverage from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.carnegie.org/" target="_blank">the Carnegie Corporation of New York</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://outrider.org/" target="_blank">Outrider Foundation</a>. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Russia holds nuclear drills after delay to Trump-Putin summit

WASHINGTON (AP) —The Agriculture Department will reopen about 2,100 county offices all across the country Thursday despite the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-republicans-senate-trump-white-house-8cac539f2a553ced68bc9e0b32bc7b94">ongoing government shutdown</a>&nbsp;to help farmers and ranchers get access to $3 billion of aid from existing programs.

The USDA said each Farm Service Agency office will have two workers who will be paid even though the government remains&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">shutdown</a>. These offices help farmers apply for farm loans, crop insurance, disaster aid and other programs. Thousands of other federal employees like air traffic controllers are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-trump-furloughs-firings-economy-federal-workers-efced4c32282087c8c53aeab535230a0">working without pay</a>&nbsp;during the shutdown.

A USDA spokesperson said this move reflects President Trump's commitment to helping farmers and ranchers, who are traditionally some of his strongest supporters. Recently, some of them have been unhappy with Trump's latest moves although his support remains strong across rural America.

Just this week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/beef-prices-cattle-imports-trump-argentina-9f8e9efd6e74e958c586ea1e32797ba2">ranchers were unhappy</a>&nbsp;with Trump's idea to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/beef-argentina-us-consumers-prices-f7fadbe1b3fef4646f9c3623f901209a">import more beef</a>&nbsp;from Argentina because that could hurt their profits, and earlier this month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soybeans-trade-tariff-china-united-states-export-025792707c4e4e91d975f8558edae1d8">soybean farmers complained</a>&nbsp;that a $20 billion aid package for Argentina allowed that country to sell soybeans to China. Farmers are also still waiting on details of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-soybean-farmers-trade-war-aid-1a848735ba89c2673d44489eea5a0e35">aid package Trump promised</a>&nbsp;to help them survive his trade war with China, but that aid has been put on hold because of the shutdown.

“President Trump will not let the radical left Democrat shutdown impact critical USDA services while harvest is underway across the country,” the USDA spokesman said.

A White House official said the administration is using funds from the Commodity Credit Corporation, a USDA agency that addresses agricultural prices. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the administration’s plans were not yet publicized.

Republicans like Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley and North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven along with farm groups like the National Corn Growers Association and Illinois Soybean Association praised the move while Democrats accused the administration of using farmers as political pawns in the shutdown fight. Both parties have been unable to reach an agreement to fund the government and end the shutdown that began Oct. 1.

Thune said reopening these offices, like he has been urging the administration to do, will give farmers access to critical services in the midst of harvest season.

“Like many hardworking Americans, producers in South Dakota and across the country – who work tirelessly to provide high-quality food for our nation – are being hurt by Senate Democrats’ reckless government shutdown,” Thune said.

Kenneth Hartman Jr., who is chairman of the Corn Growers Association, said this is a crucial time because farmers are getting ready to place orders for next year's seed and fertilizer right now as well as settling up with the bankers for this year's operating loans. And farmers are grappling with soaring costs.

“Because of the inflation factor, the farm economy is really in a critical situation here. So anything that the farmers can get when it comes to support from the farm programs from the farm bill of last year, we need to get that open and get that money out to them,” said Hartman, who is in the middle of harvesting his crop near Waterloo, Illinois.

The House Agriculture Committee Democrats said on X that this shows that Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins “could have supported farmers all along, but you chose not to because you’d rather use farmers’ pain to score cheap political points while increasing the cost of living for ordinary Americans by making food and health care more expensive.”

Minnesota Rep. Angie Craig, who is the ranking Democrat on the Agriculture Committee, said the administration should have done this sooner to ensure that farmers can get the help they need.

“I am glad the administration is finally doing right by America’s farmers by partially opening FSA offices, though I question why the administration waited so long and made this decision only after putting farmers through three weeks of uncertainty," Craig said.

Associated Press writer Seung Min Kim contributed to this story from Washington.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761151096326.png" alt="USDA image" />
 <figcaption>USDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The Agriculture Department will reopen about 2,100 county offices all across the country Thursday despite the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-republicans-senate-trump-white-house-8cac539f2a553ced68bc9e0b32bc7b94">ongoing government shutdown</a>&nbsp;to help farmers and ranchers get access to $3 billion of aid from existing programs.The USDA said each Farm Service Agency office will have two workers who will be paid even though the government remains&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">shutdown</a>. These offices help farmers apply for farm loans, crop insurance, disaster aid and other programs. Thousands of other federal employees like air traffic controllers are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-trump-furloughs-firings-economy-federal-workers-efced4c32282087c8c53aeab535230a0">working without pay</a>&nbsp;during the shutdown.A USDA spokesperson said this move reflects President Trump's commitment to helping farmers and ranchers, who are traditionally some of his strongest supporters. Recently, some of them have been unhappy with Trump's latest moves although his support remains strong across rural America.Just this week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/beef-prices-cattle-imports-trump-argentina-9f8e9efd6e74e958c586ea1e32797ba2">ranchers were unhappy</a>&nbsp;with Trump's idea to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/beef-argentina-us-consumers-prices-f7fadbe1b3fef4646f9c3623f901209a">import more beef</a>&nbsp;from Argentina because that could hurt their profits, and earlier this month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soybeans-trade-tariff-china-united-states-export-025792707c4e4e91d975f8558edae1d8">soybean farmers complained</a>&nbsp;that a $20 billion aid package for Argentina allowed that country to sell soybeans to China. Farmers are also still waiting on details of an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-soybean-farmers-trade-war-aid-1a848735ba89c2673d44489eea5a0e35">aid package Trump promised</a>&nbsp;to help them survive his trade war with China, but that aid has been put on hold because of the shutdown.“President Trump will not let the radical left Democrat shutdown impact critical USDA services while harvest is underway across the country,” the USDA spokesman said.A White House official said the administration is using funds from the Commodity Credit Corporation, a USDA agency that addresses agricultural prices. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the administration’s plans were not yet publicized.Republicans like Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley and North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven along with farm groups like the National Corn Growers Association and Illinois Soybean Association praised the move while Democrats accused the administration of using farmers as political pawns in the shutdown fight. Both parties have been unable to reach an agreement to fund the government and end the shutdown that began Oct. 1.Thune said reopening these offices, like he has been urging the administration to do, will give farmers access to critical services in the midst of harvest season.“Like many hardworking Americans, producers in South Dakota and across the country – who work tirelessly to provide high-quality food for our nation – are being hurt by Senate Democrats’ reckless government shutdown,” Thune said.Kenneth Hartman Jr., who is chairman of the Corn Growers Association, said this is a crucial time because farmers are getting ready to place orders for next year's seed and fertilizer right now as well as settling up with the bankers for this year's operating loans. And farmers are grappling with soaring costs.“Because of the inflation factor, the farm economy is really in a critical situation here. So anything that the farmers can get when it comes to support from the farm programs from the farm bill of last year, we need to get that open and get that money out to them,” said Hartman, who is in the middle of harvesting his crop near Waterloo, Illinois.The House Agriculture Committee Democrats said on X that this shows that Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins “could have supported farmers all along, but you chose not to because you’d rather use farmers’ pain to score cheap political points while increasing the cost of living for ordinary Americans by making food and health care more expensive.”Minnesota Rep. Angie Craig, who is the ranking Democrat on the Agriculture Committee, said the administration should have done this sooner to ensure that farmers can get the help they need.“I am glad the administration is finally doing right by America’s farmers by partially opening FSA offices, though I question why the administration waited so long and made this decision only after putting farmers through three weeks of uncertainty," Craig said.___Associated Press writer Seung Min Kim contributed to this story from Washington.

USDA reopening some 2,100 offices to help farmers

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man jailed for a deadly shooting on a&nbsp;City of Wichita bus made his first court appearance on Tuesday.

&nbsp;Travis L. Finney, 34, was charged with first degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon and probation violation, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 3:30 p.m. October 16, police responded to a report of a shooting at South Meridian and West Burton. When officers arrived, they found a 54-year-old&nbsp; Reginald Griffith suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Sedgwick County EMS pronounced him deceased on scene.

Investigators determined that both Finney and Griffith were passengers on the bus and knew each other.

Finney remains jailed on bonds of&nbsp;$2,575,000.00, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760655721036.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man jailed for a deadly shooting on a&nbsp;City of Wichita bus made his first court appearance on Tuesday.&nbsp;Travis L. Finney, 34, was charged with first degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon and probation violation, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760696407932.png" alt="Finney photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Finney photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 3:30 p.m. October 16, police responded to a report of a shooting at South Meridian and West Burton. When officers arrived, they found a 54-year-old&nbsp; Reginald Griffith suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Sedgwick County EMS pronounced him deceased on scene.Investigators determined that both Finney and Griffith were passengers on the bus and knew each other.Finney remains jailed on bonds of&nbsp;$2,575,000.00, according to online jail records.

Kan. suspect accused of killing a man on city bus faces a judge

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has received a letter from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) regarding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to a media release from the ageny.

 That letter to all states says that if a lapse in funding, caused by the shutdown, continues, there will not be enough money to pay full SNAP benefits for November.

The letter directs agencies to hold off on processing November benefits until further notice. Until a budget agreement or continuing resolution is reached at the federal level, or the federal government identifies a funding pathway, November SNAP benefits may be delayed or interrupted entirely. If no federal action is taken by October 28, 2025, November SNAP benefits will not be disbursed until the federal government reaches a resolution.

SNAP provides benefits for approximately 42 million people across the country. That includes a total distribution of more than $34.4 million to more than 93,000 Kansas households&nbsp;–&nbsp;nearly 188,000 Kansans&nbsp;–&nbsp;who depend on SNAP each month to help put food on their tables.

This potential interruption in benefits comes at the start of the holiday season – an already busy time for food banks and food pantries helping people in need and when many children have days off from school without access to school meals.

DCF is monitoring the situation closely and is exploring what this may mean for Kansans. November benefits for current SNAP recipients are set to begin processing on October 28 and appearing on Kansas Benefits Cards beginning November 1-10 on an established staggered schedule based on last names. If an agreement is not reached by October 28, benefits could be delayed or suspended until the shutdown has ended.

“As soon as an agreement is reached or the federal government finds an alternative funding source, and DCF receives approval from FNS, we are prepared to act quickly with contracting partners to get benefits out to Kansans,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“Depending on the timing of the approval, DCF and its partners could have benefits available on cards within 72 hours.”

October SNAP benefits were distributed as planned. At this time, SNAP recipients should continue using their October benefits as normal. SNAP recipients should continue meeting program requirements, including reporting required changes and completing recertifications.

DCF is continuing to process SNAP applications as usual. Applications can be accessed online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/Pw50Ky-F6jZe97hbD8910xmJbnwz4c5ds_T1aiJ-LPY=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by visiting a local DCF service center. A map with service center locations can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/yIVHnmTgHvIx8KE_7gV4h9rxS4s3LfNUIP6BARB07NQ=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF is closely monitoring the impact the federal government shutdown is having on programs and services the agency delivers and will provide updates through its various communication channels as this situation evolves. Information about federal shutdown impacts on DCF programs and services is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/HyecglYp9szWTxUSH16i3dNP81VB1Yk_TwHNB2z3F1w=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.

For Kansans in need of additional support, Kansas Food Source,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/VEyJqWTKk0_hI2zUeCwKkZH_zjY6AZ1kmIwda4WDuIY=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.harvesters.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/1MBJcfOfx5eKTBQ3gAxcMFp0N-zWt-YKc8YD-kB-byo=427">Harvesters.org</a>&nbsp;provide locations of food banks and food pantries across the state. The United Way’s 211 hotline or website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.211.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/_1vmhiAbZnEEnnUeIbHPI9qqsXHd2UeeT-8vEaesxug=427">211.org</a>, and 1-800-CHILDREN,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2F1800childrenks.com%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/ito8OQbQ2CaG44nOjBaS7MmKFdED3Q_3sl4uhHFy5Go=427">1800childrenks.com</a>, also connects Kansans to resources in their communities.

The loss of federal funding places additional stress on Kansas food banks, pantries and meals programs, which are already strained to meet the needs of those who utilize them. Kansans wishing to help their local food resources can find those locations on the Kansas Food Source website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/M-IrQv87Mio2He4EBpIzXKtc4WoQbFYcAAObNQh6drE=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689674819900.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has received a letter from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) regarding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to a media release from the ageny. That letter to all states says that if a lapse in funding, caused by the shutdown, continues, there will not be enough money to pay full SNAP benefits for November.The letter directs agencies to hold off on processing November benefits until further notice. Until a budget agreement or continuing resolution is reached at the federal level, or the federal government identifies a funding pathway, November SNAP benefits may be delayed or interrupted entirely. If no federal action is taken by October 28, 2025, November SNAP benefits will not be disbursed until the federal government reaches a resolution.SNAP provides benefits for approximately 42 million people across the country. That includes a total distribution of more than $34.4 million to more than 93,000 Kansas households&nbsp;–&nbsp;nearly 188,000 Kansans&nbsp;–&nbsp;who depend on SNAP each month to help put food on their tables.Impact on KansansThis potential interruption in benefits comes at the start of the holiday season – an already busy time for food banks and food pantries helping people in need and when many children have days off from school without access to school meals.DCF is monitoring the situation closely and is exploring what this may mean for Kansans. November benefits for current SNAP recipients are set to begin processing on October 28 and appearing on Kansas Benefits Cards beginning November 1-10 on an established staggered schedule based on last names. If an agreement is not reached by October 28, benefits could be delayed or suspended until the shutdown has ended.“As soon as an agreement is reached or the federal government finds an alternative funding source, and DCF receives approval from FNS, we are prepared to act quickly with contracting partners to get benefits out to Kansans,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“Depending on the timing of the approval, DCF and its partners could have benefits available on cards within 72 hours.”October SNAP benefits were distributed as planned. At this time, SNAP recipients should continue using their October benefits as normal. SNAP recipients should continue meeting program requirements, including reporting required changes and completing recertifications.DCF is continuing to process SNAP applications as usual. Applications can be accessed online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/Pw50Ky-F6jZe97hbD8910xmJbnwz4c5ds_T1aiJ-LPY=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by visiting a local DCF service center. A map with service center locations can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/yIVHnmTgHvIx8KE_7gV4h9rxS4s3LfNUIP6BARB07NQ=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.What happens next?DCF is closely monitoring the impact the federal government shutdown is having on programs and services the agency delivers and will provide updates through its various communication channels as this situation evolves. Information about federal shutdown impacts on DCF programs and services is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/HyecglYp9szWTxUSH16i3dNP81VB1Yk_TwHNB2z3F1w=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.Help for KansansFor Kansans in need of additional support, Kansas Food Source,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/VEyJqWTKk0_hI2zUeCwKkZH_zjY6AZ1kmIwda4WDuIY=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.harvesters.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/1MBJcfOfx5eKTBQ3gAxcMFp0N-zWt-YKc8YD-kB-byo=427">Harvesters.org</a>&nbsp;provide locations of food banks and food pantries across the state. The United Way’s 211 hotline or website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.211.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/_1vmhiAbZnEEnnUeIbHPI9qqsXHd2UeeT-8vEaesxug=427">211.org</a>, and 1-800-CHILDREN,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2F1800childrenks.com%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/ito8OQbQ2CaG44nOjBaS7MmKFdED3Q_3sl4uhHFy5Go=427">1800childrenks.com</a>, also connects Kansans to resources in their communities.The loss of federal funding places additional stress on Kansas food banks, pantries and meals programs, which are already strained to meet the needs of those who utilize them. Kansans wishing to help their local food resources can find those locations on the Kansas Food Source website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/M-IrQv87Mio2He4EBpIzXKtc4WoQbFYcAAObNQh6drE=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>.

Kan. SNAP benefits on hold for November due to government shutdown

SALINE COUNTY —Police are investigating a report of scammers who deceive three people in Salina who were attempting to earn US citizenship.

On Monday afternoon, three people including two 49-year-old women and a 34-year-old man, seeking US citizenship visited the Salina Police station to report the scam, according to statement from police.

In January, the three reported they were contacted via email by scammers claiming to be 'immigration lawyers.' These scammers advised they could 'assist them with their immigration status.'

The victims received various phone calls, followed by requests of money for filing fees and other reasons since the first initial contact in January.

According to police the women each lost $2,180 and the man lost $5,550.

SPD told Salina Post, they want to inform the community to be aware of scams, such as this crime.&nbsp;

SALINE COUNTY —Police are investigating a report of scammers who deceive three people in Salina who were attempting to earn US citizenship.On Monday afternoon, three people including two 49-year-old women and a 34-year-old man, seeking US citizenship visited the Salina Police station to report the scam, according to statement from police.In January, the three reported they were contacted via email by scammers claiming to be 'immigration lawyers.' These scammers advised they could 'assist them with their immigration status.'The victims received various phone calls, followed by requests of money for filing fees and other reasons since the first initial contact in January.According to police the women each lost $2,180 and the man lost $5,550.SPD told Salina Post, they want to inform the community to be aware of scams, such as this crime.&nbsp;

Police: 3 lost thousands of dollars to immigration scam 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 39-year-old Vincent Taylor, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers were dispatched to the 900 block of Jefferson in Kansas City on report of someone who was shot.

First responders located Taylor suffering from gunshot wounds, just inside of an apartment building at the Quality Hill Towers. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD Medics arrived. 

EMS pronounced him deceased on scene. This is being investigated as a homicide. 

Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shots being fired and Taylor being struck. Police released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 39-year-old Vincent Taylor, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers were dispatched to the 900 block of Jefferson in Kansas City on report of someone who was shot.First responders located Taylor suffering from gunshot wounds, just inside of an apartment building at the Quality Hill Towers. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD Medics arrived. EMS pronounced him deceased on scene. This is being investigated as a homicide. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shots being fired and Taylor being struck. Police released no additional details.

Homicide: Police ID man found just inside KC apartment building

WASHINGTON (AP) — Head Start programs that serve tens of thousands of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/preschool-head-start-alaska-education-b32c3623193f2b972521922954b71dbd">the nation’s neediest preschoolers</a>&nbsp;are facing a cutoff of federal funding at the end of the month because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">the government shutdown</a>, leaving many scrambling to figure out how to keep their doors open.

The early education initiative is funded almost entirely by the federal government, making it particularly vulnerable to funding disruptions. The programs — which are run by schools, local governments and nonprofits — receive new grants annually and are not allowed to carry over unspent money.

With new grants on hold, a half dozen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/head-start-preschool-child-care-teacher-pay-256a66cc4df8a331a2d0badcba7f72e8">Head Start</a>&nbsp;programs already missed federal disbursements they were expecting on Oct. 1 and are staying open with fast-dwindling reserves or help from local governments. Another 134 programs will not receive federal money that is due Nov. 1 if the government does not reopen, according to the National Head Start Association. All told, more than 65,000 seats at Head Start programs across the country could be affected.

In Tallahassee, Florida, a Head Start program run by Capital Area Community Action Agency Inc. has been running on “fumes” since it stopped receiving federal money at the start of the month, interim CEO Nina Singleton Self said. It is drawing down reserves, getting an advance on a city grant and taking out a line of credit, but those funds will run dry this week.

To stay open beyond that, Self is asking how many staff members would work without pay. She’s also steeling them for financial uncertainty, advising them on how to take loans out from their retirement accounts or apply to programs that would help them pay utility bills. She’s asked other nonprofits and philanthropies for help, too.

“We’re reaching out for everything that we can,” Self said.

Preschool centers count the days they could stay open

Another organization in north Florida that operates eight rural Head Start centers for 365 kids was cut off Oct. 1 and has enough funding to keep its doors open until the end of November.

After that, “I don’t really know what to tell you,” said Michele Ward, executive director of Suwanee Valley Community Coordinated Child Care.

In Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas warned Head Start centers that serve 2,300 children will have to shutter if the federal government remains closed.

“Closing early childhood care for thousands of Kansas City children and families will have devastating effects on thousands of Kansas City families, workplaces and, most importantly, kids,” said Lucas, a Democrat.

Rekah Strong, who leads a Vancouver, Washington-based organization that operates Head Start centers, said some likely will have to shut down around Nov. 1, when the organization would normally receive its federal grant. She doesn’t see other funding options.

Closing a center even briefly has ripple effects, Head Start leaders warn. The early education program provides two meals a day to students, along with medical screenings and dental care. Many of the children who attend Head Start have parents working in hourly jobs who risk losing work if they do not have child care.

“Every day this shutdown continues, programs are forced to make impossible choices just to keep their doors open. Children cannot wait,” said Yasmina Vinci, executive director of the National Head Start Association.

Low-income families that rely on Head Start are facing the prospect of losing other assistance as well.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-wic-food-a6d66fa0ce3d02257b5b43a79355b1bf">The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children</a>, better known as WIC, nearly ran out of money because of the shutdown before President Donald Trump’s administration provided $300 million to keep it running temporarily. The Republican president’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-sign-tax-cut-bill-july-4-3804df732e461a626fd8c2b43413c3f0">big tax breaks and spending cuts law</a>&nbsp;also imposes cuts on Medicaid and food stamps.

Launched six decades ago as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, Head Start has a history of bipartisan support but has faced calls this year for its funding to be cut back.

A budget document showed the White House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/head-start-trump-funding-budget-cuts-education-204077e046329eb22c71445d57ba002b">weighed shutting down</a>&nbsp;Head Start altogether, a prospect that led to an outcry from both sides of the aisle before Trump’s administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-budget-head-start-cuts-survive-f55be05f92250ab3ac5d5bcb389ded47">backed away from the proposal</a>. Project 2025, a detailed set of policy recommendations authored by the conservative Heritage Foundation, recommended eliminating Head Start.

In January, Head Start operators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/head-start-medicaid-federal-funding-4fe440e35df70c7ede8ce8e0409cb581">struggled to access their federal money</a>&nbsp;because of problems with the government’s online portal. Some had to shut down temporarily.

The shutdown began when Congress failed to pass a bill to fund the government. In a standoff with the Trump administration, Democrats are insisting on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-health-care-subsidies-obamacare-congress-10b2ae9648bc5252fc2bd485ddc83493">the extension of tax credits</a>&nbsp;that make health insurance cheaper for millions of Americans and the restoration of cuts made to Medicaid. Without the tax credits, more than 20 million Americans on Affordable Care Act plans would see their health care costs rise. Republicans say they won’t discuss the health care subsidies, or any other policy, until the government reopens.

Joel Ryan, executive director of the Washington Head Start Association, said he is eager for Congress to end the shutdown. But he said he also knows that many Head Start families and staff members rely on Medicaid and on the Affordable Care Act plans.

“I’m glad that the Democrats are fighting to restore health care access,” Ryan said. “I’m also really cognizant of the ramifications of the government shutdown.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — Head Start programs that serve tens of thousands of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/preschool-head-start-alaska-education-b32c3623193f2b972521922954b71dbd">the nation’s neediest preschoolers</a>&nbsp;are facing a cutoff of federal funding at the end of the month because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">the government shutdown</a>, leaving many scrambling to figure out how to keep their doors open.The early education initiative is funded almost entirely by the federal government, making it particularly vulnerable to funding disruptions. The programs — which are run by schools, local governments and nonprofits — receive new grants annually and are not allowed to carry over unspent money.With new grants on hold, a half dozen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/head-start-preschool-child-care-teacher-pay-256a66cc4df8a331a2d0badcba7f72e8">Head Start</a>&nbsp;programs already missed federal disbursements they were expecting on Oct. 1 and are staying open with fast-dwindling reserves or help from local governments. Another 134 programs will not receive federal money that is due Nov. 1 if the government does not reopen, according to the National Head Start Association. All told, more than 65,000 seats at Head Start programs across the country could be affected.In Tallahassee, Florida, a Head Start program run by Capital Area Community Action Agency Inc. has been running on “fumes” since it stopped receiving federal money at the start of the month, interim CEO Nina Singleton Self said. It is drawing down reserves, getting an advance on a city grant and taking out a line of credit, but those funds will run dry this week.To stay open beyond that, Self is asking how many staff members would work without pay. She’s also steeling them for financial uncertainty, advising them on how to take loans out from their retirement accounts or apply to programs that would help them pay utility bills. She’s asked other nonprofits and philanthropies for help, too.“We’re reaching out for everything that we can,” Self said.<h2>Preschool centers count the days they could stay open</h2>Another organization in north Florida that operates eight rural Head Start centers for 365 kids was cut off Oct. 1 and has enough funding to keep its doors open until the end of November.After that, “I don’t really know what to tell you,” said Michele Ward, executive director of Suwanee Valley Community Coordinated Child Care.In Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Quinton Lucas warned Head Start centers that serve 2,300 children will have to shutter if the federal government remains closed.“Closing early childhood care for thousands of Kansas City children and families will have devastating effects on thousands of Kansas City families, workplaces and, most importantly, kids,” said Lucas, a Democrat.Rekah Strong, who leads a Vancouver, Washington-based organization that operates Head Start centers, said some likely will have to shut down around Nov. 1, when the organization would normally receive its federal grant. She doesn’t see other funding options.Closing a center even briefly has ripple effects, Head Start leaders warn. The early education program provides two meals a day to students, along with medical screenings and dental care. Many of the children who attend Head Start have parents working in hourly jobs who risk losing work if they do not have child care.“Every day this shutdown continues, programs are forced to make impossible choices just to keep their doors open. Children cannot wait,” said Yasmina Vinci, executive director of the National Head Start Association.Low-income families that rely on Head Start are facing the prospect of losing other assistance as well.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-wic-food-a6d66fa0ce3d02257b5b43a79355b1bf">The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children</a>, better known as WIC, nearly ran out of money because of the shutdown before President Donald Trump’s administration provided $300 million to keep it running temporarily. The Republican president’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-sign-tax-cut-bill-july-4-3804df732e461a626fd8c2b43413c3f0">big tax breaks and spending cuts law</a>&nbsp;also imposes cuts on Medicaid and food stamps.<h2>Head Start faces a string of challenges</h2>Launched six decades ago as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, Head Start has a history of bipartisan support but has faced calls this year for its funding to be cut back.A budget document showed the White House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/head-start-trump-funding-budget-cuts-education-204077e046329eb22c71445d57ba002b">weighed shutting down</a>&nbsp;Head Start altogether, a prospect that led to an outcry from both sides of the aisle before Trump’s administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-budget-head-start-cuts-survive-f55be05f92250ab3ac5d5bcb389ded47">backed away from the proposal</a>. Project 2025, a detailed set of policy recommendations authored by the conservative Heritage Foundation, recommended eliminating Head Start.In January, Head Start operators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/head-start-medicaid-federal-funding-4fe440e35df70c7ede8ce8e0409cb581">struggled to access their federal money</a>&nbsp;because of problems with the government’s online portal. Some had to shut down temporarily.The shutdown began when Congress failed to pass a bill to fund the government. In a standoff with the Trump administration, Democrats are insisting on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-health-care-subsidies-obamacare-congress-10b2ae9648bc5252fc2bd485ddc83493">the extension of tax credits</a>&nbsp;that make health insurance cheaper for millions of Americans and the restoration of cuts made to Medicaid. Without the tax credits, more than 20 million Americans on Affordable Care Act plans would see their health care costs rise. Republicans say they won’t discuss the health care subsidies, or any other policy, until the government reopens.Joel Ryan, executive director of the Washington Head Start Association, said he is eager for Congress to end the shutdown. But he said he also knows that many Head Start families and staff members rely on Medicaid and on the Affordable Care Act plans.“I’m glad that the Democrats are fighting to restore health care access,” Ryan said. “I’m also really cognizant of the ramifications of the government shutdown.”___

Government shutdown imperils dozens of Head Start preschool programs

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man found guilty of charges in a fatal hit-and-run that killed 43-year-old bicyclist Thomas Doyle learn his fate on Tuesday.

&nbsp;Judge Quentin Pittman sentenced 23-year-old Christopher Johnson to 19 months in prison&nbsp;for failure to stop at an accident resulting in death and an additional six months in jail for driving under the influence, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In June,&nbsp; Johnson plead not guilty to a charge of felony hit-and-run, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In September, he entered a no contest plea to avod a jury trial, according to the district attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In August of 2024, police responded to a traffic collision involving a vehicle and an electric bicycle at 2400 N. Hoover in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

First responders found 43-year-old Thomas Doyle of Wichita who was riding the bike unresponsive. Doyle was later pronounced deceased at the scene by Sedgwick County EMS.

Investigators determined Doyle was northbound on Hoover Street when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Johnson who then continued driving north.

On August 22, police arrested Johnson.&nbsp; He bonded out of jail the following day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724409391079.png" alt="Johnson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Johnson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man found guilty of charges in a fatal hit-and-run that killed 43-year-old bicyclist Thomas Doyle learn his fate on Tuesday.&nbsp;Judge Quentin Pittman sentenced 23-year-old Christopher Johnson to 19 months in prison&nbsp;for failure to stop at an accident resulting in death and an additional six months in jail for driving under the influence, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In June,&nbsp; Johnson plead not guilty to a charge of felony hit-and-run, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In September, he entered a no contest plea to avod a jury trial, according to the district attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;In August of 2024, police responded to a traffic collision involving a vehicle and an electric bicycle at 2400 N. Hoover in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.First responders found 43-year-old Thomas Doyle of Wichita who was riding the bike unresponsive. Doyle was later pronounced deceased at the scene by Sedgwick County EMS.Investigators determined Doyle was northbound on Hoover Street when he was struck by a vehicle driven by Johnson who then continued driving north.On August 22, police arrested Johnson.&nbsp; He bonded out of jail the following day.

Prison for DUI crash that killed Kansas man on electric bicycle

CLAY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident outside a Kansas City area high school.

Just after 9a.m. Tuesday, a&nbsp;School Resource Officer was patrolling the parking lot of Liberty High School,&nbsp;200 Blue Jay Drive in Liberty, Missouri, when he noticed a suspicious person standing near several vehicles, according to a media release from Independence Police.

The officer stopped to check on the individual, and an altercation ensued when the person resisted being detained. The School Resource Officer called for emergency assistance from other officers. The individual was able to break free, and a foot chase followed.

Due to the unknown reason for the person’s presence on school property and their resistance to the officer, the resources officer requested assistance from surrounding agencies to help locate the suspect. 

At approximately 9:15a.m., the suspect was located at a nearby business and taken into custody without further incident. The suspect is a juvenile and is being referred to the Clay County Juvenile Office. 

CLAY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident outside a Kansas City area high school.Just after 9a.m. Tuesday, a&nbsp;School Resource Officer was patrolling the parking lot of Liberty High School,&nbsp;200 Blue Jay Drive in Liberty, Missouri, when he noticed a suspicious person standing near several vehicles, according to a media release from Independence Police.The officer stopped to check on the individual, and an altercation ensued when the person resisted being detained. The School Resource Officer called for emergency assistance from other officers. The individual was able to break free, and a foot chase followed.Due to the unknown reason for the person’s presence on school property and their resistance to the officer, the resources officer requested assistance from surrounding agencies to help locate the suspect. At approximately 9:15a.m., the suspect was located at a nearby business and taken into custody without further incident. The suspect is a juvenile and is being referred to the Clay County Juvenile Office.

Police: Juvenile arrested after fight with resource officer outside KC area school

JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri- Investigators confirmed that a fire Monday night at the Leeton United Methodist Church was intentionally set, prompting an arson investigation led by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to a statement from the Johnson County Fire Protection District.

Just after 9p.m. Monday, firefighters from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department, responding through automatic mutual aid for a ladder truck to 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton. 

 When crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible from inside the 129-year-old church. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack, bringing the fire under control after nearly three hours. 

 Despite extensive damage throughout the structure, the church remains standing, and crews were able to save some items from inside.

The Leeton United Methodist Church, built in 1896, has long served as a cornerstone of the Leeton community.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire with assistance from the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit. 

 Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, prompting a formal arson investigation.“

It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” said JCFPD Captain Joe Jennings.  “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton. 

 Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”Captain Jennings urged anyone with information to come forward.“Someone knows something,” Jennings said.  “We’re asking the public to do the right thing and help bring whoever is responsible to justice.  No tip is too small.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-39-ARSON (1-800-392-7766).  A cash reward is available for information leading to an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761096204652.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri- Investigators confirmed that a fire Monday night at the Leeton United Methodist Church was intentionally set, prompting an arson investigation led by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to a statement from the Johnson County Fire Protection District.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1285842890014232%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Just after 9p.m. Monday, firefighters from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department, responding through automatic mutual aid for a ladder truck to 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton. When crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible from inside the 129-year-old church. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack, bringing the fire under control after nearly three hours. Despite extensive damage throughout the structure, the church remains standing, and crews were able to save some items from inside.The Leeton United Methodist Church, built in 1896, has long served as a cornerstone of the Leeton community.The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire with assistance from the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit. Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, prompting a formal arson investigation.“It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” said JCFPD Captain Joe Jennings. “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton. Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”Captain Jennings urged anyone with information to come forward.“Someone knows something,” Jennings said. “We’re asking the public to do the right thing and help bring whoever is responsible to justice. No tip is too small.”Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-39-ARSON (1-800-392-7766). A cash reward is available for information leading to an arrest.

Arson fire damages 129-year-old Methodist church

The nation is feeling the financial hit of the government shutdown, which is on track to become among the longest in U.S. history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are&nbsp;going without pay and there are few signs of any end to the stalemate.

The U.S. Senate will vote again Wednesday on whether to end the shutdown.

The nation is feeling the financial hit of the government shutdown, which is on track to become among the longest in U.S. history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are&nbsp;going without pay and there are few signs of any end to the stalemate.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Democrats attempt to be recognized during House Pro Forma Session. <a href="https://t.co/VcH9hZqGVu">pic.twitter.com/VcH9hZqGVu</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1980699082415874173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Leader Thune is offering to negotiate on the Affordable Care Act with you if you re-open the government. Why won&#39;t you take the deal?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenSchumer</a>: &quot;The bottom line is that&#39;s no deal, that&#39;s a partisan plan that leaves the American people high and dry.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zDYUyqlyhr">pic.twitter.com/zDYUyqlyhr</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1980713747120275965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 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/LeaderJohnThune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderJohnThune</a>: &quot;People keep saying, &#39;Negotiate!&#39; — Negotiate what? I don&#39;t know what that is right now. The government needs to open up, and then we&#39;re happy to sit down and talk about any other issues the Democrats want to talk about.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/LCms5PQq3K">pic.twitter.com/LCms5PQq3K</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980706435945119745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Three weeks in, Washington Democrats are still playing politics with Americans’ livelihoods.<a href="https://twitter.com/HouseGOP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HouseGOP</a> passed a clean, non-partisan CR to keep the government open 36 days ago, but Washington Democrats would rather fight for free health care for illegal immigrants than keep basic…&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1980703529149837819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 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/SenJohnBarrasso?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenJohnBarrasso</a>: &quot;The government has been closed now for 21 days and the Democrats have had a chance to open it 11 times — and each time, they voted no... The Democrats are holding this country hostage. It&#39;s time for it to END. It&#39;s time to reopen the government...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/fp7UYE8iXR">pic.twitter.com/fp7UYE8iXR</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980702533929607441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;From the beginning, our message has been very simple: we will NOT be extorted&quot; by Democrats, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> tells Senate Republicans. &quot;Chuck Schumer and the Senate Democrats need to vote for the clean, bipartisan CR and reopen our government!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/g4GaTYWB8s">pic.twitter.com/g4GaTYWB8s</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980682137264144490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The U.S. Senate will vote again Wednesday on whether to end the shutdown.

🎥What Congressional leaders are saying about the gov't shutdown

CASS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Cass County.

The Missouri State Highway reported a 2022 GMC Savana driven by a 42-year-old Kansas City, Missouri man traveled northbound into the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 just south of Belton. 

The van struck the front of a 2025 Freightliner semi driven by a 51-year-old Ames, Iowa man. After impact the Freightliner struck the passenger side of a 1992 Peterbilt semi driven by a 66-year-old Webb City man.&nbsp; The van caught fire and caused the other two vehicle to also catch fire. 

The van driver was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; EMS transported the Freightliner driver to Research Medical Center. There were no other injuries. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims. The accident kept I-49 closed in both diretions until early Tuesday evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761076272230.png" alt="Photo MSHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>CASS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Cass County.The Missouri State Highway reported a 2022 GMC Savana driven by a 42-year-old Kansas City, Missouri man traveled northbound into the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 just south of Belton. The van struck the front of a 2025 Freightliner semi driven by a 51-year-old Ames, Iowa man. After impact the Freightliner struck the passenger side of a 1992 Peterbilt semi driven by a 66-year-old Webb City man.&nbsp; The van caught fire and caused the other two vehicle to also catch fire. The van driver was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; EMS transported the Freightliner driver to Research Medical Center. There were no other injuries. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims. The accident kept I-49 closed in both diretions until early Tuesday evening.

Kansas City man killed in 3-vehicle wrong-way crash and fire

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hyung-jin-kim">HYUNG-JIN KIM</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/kim-tong-hyung">KIM TONG-HYUNG</a>

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea performed its first ballistic missile tests in five months Wednesday, days before U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-jinping-china-asia-8f21df3df6fa3f51ca4ab4dfcf7669ba">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and other leaders are expected to meet in South Korea.

South Korea’s military said it detected multiple short-range ballistic missiles that were launched from an area south of Pyongyang and flew about 350 kilometers (220 miles) toward the northeast. The South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff didn’t release more specific flight details but said the missiles didn’t land in the sea.

The Joint Chiefs added that the South’s military remains ready to repel any provocations by North Korea based on its solid military alliance with the United States.

Japan’s new Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-first-female-prime-minister-vote-trump-24b4a5e2a2b777139de66e38665ced0d">Sanae Takaichi</a>&nbsp;told reporters that Tokyo was closely communicating with Washington and Seoul, including by sharing real-time missile warning data. North Korea didn’t immediately comment on the launches.

Trump is to leave for Asia at the end of the week in the first trip to the region of his second term. He plans to go to Malaysia first for a regional summit, and then head to Japan before travelling on to South Korea for an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, an annual summit meant to promote economic integration and trade.

Trump was expected to visit the South Korean city of Gyeongju ahead of the summit for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-tariffs-trade-rare-earths-6432313cca9be9adf1f378f9650fc36a">bilateral meetings</a>&nbsp;with leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, but South Korean officials say Trump won’t likely attend APEC’s main conference set for Oct. 30-Nov. 1.

Experts earlier said North Korea could conduct provocative missile tests before or during the APEC summit to underscore its commitment to gain recognition as a nuclear weapons state. Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would need that status to call for the U.N. to lift the economic sanctions punishing it for its weapons program.

Wednesday’s ballistic missile launches by North Korea were the first of their kind since the country on May 8 tested short-range systems that simulated nuclear counterstrikes against U.S. and South Korean forces. They were also North Korea’s first ballistic missile testing activities since Lee took office in June with a promise&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-korea-lee-kim-jong-un-military-agreement-japan-d6d190d7b4cc4d8394bcbd7e057bf990">to push to restore peace</a>&nbsp;on the Korean Peninsula.

Kim has been sharply accelerating the pace of weapons tests since his high-stakes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-north-korea-vietnam-north-america-1a282706835d427184efc29700f94121">nuclear diplomacy</a>&nbsp;with Trump fell apart in 2019 due to wrangling over the U.S.-led economic sanctions. But last month, Kim suggested he could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-trump-kim-good-memories-nuclear-be9f1f41e56914ca07934bf7c50b8237">return to talks</a>&nbsp;if the U.S. drops its demand for North Korea’s denuclearization, after Trump repeatedly expressed his hopes for new diplomacy.

Earlier this month, Kim displayed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-missile-kim-jong-un-8a6b9f3498d50effe3f72969bfe9c842">a new intercontinental ballistic missile</a>&nbsp;at a military parade attended by Chinese, Russian and other top officials. The parade highlighted Kim’s growing diplomatic footing and his relentless drive to build a reliable arsenal of nuclear missiles targeting the U.S. and its allies.

North Korea’s state media said the Oct. 10 parade featured the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile, which it described as the country’s “most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system.” Observers said the new ICBM is designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads to defeat U.S. missile defenses and that North Korea could test-launch it in coming months.

Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667483523229.png" alt="File photo A TV screen showing a news program reporting about North Korea's missile launch with file footage is seen at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022.&nbsp; (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)" />
 <figcaption>File photo A TV screen showing a news program reporting about North Korea's missile launch with file footage is seen at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022.&nbsp; (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/hyung-jin-kim">HYUNG-JIN KIM</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/kim-tong-hyung">KIM TONG-HYUNG</a>SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korea performed its first ballistic missile tests in five months Wednesday, days before U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-jinping-china-asia-8f21df3df6fa3f51ca4ab4dfcf7669ba">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and other leaders are expected to meet in South Korea.South Korea’s military said it detected multiple short-range ballistic missiles that were launched from an area south of Pyongyang and flew about 350 kilometers (220 miles) toward the northeast. The South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff didn’t release more specific flight details but said the missiles didn’t land in the sea.The Joint Chiefs added that the South’s military remains ready to repel any provocations by North Korea based on its solid military alliance with the United States.Japan’s new Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-first-female-prime-minister-vote-trump-24b4a5e2a2b777139de66e38665ced0d">Sanae Takaichi</a>&nbsp;told reporters that Tokyo was closely communicating with Washington and Seoul, including by sharing real-time missile warning data. North Korea didn’t immediately comment on the launches.Trump is to leave for Asia at the end of the week in the first trip to the region of his second term. He plans to go to Malaysia first for a regional summit, and then head to Japan before travelling on to South Korea for an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, an annual summit meant to promote economic integration and trade.Trump was expected to visit the South Korean city of Gyeongju ahead of the summit for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-tariffs-trade-rare-earths-6432313cca9be9adf1f378f9650fc36a">bilateral meetings</a>&nbsp;with leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, but South Korean officials say Trump won’t likely attend APEC’s main conference set for Oct. 30-Nov. 1.Experts earlier said North Korea could conduct provocative missile tests before or during the APEC summit to underscore its commitment to gain recognition as a nuclear weapons state. Experts say North Korean leader Kim Jong Un would need that status to call for the U.N. to lift the economic sanctions punishing it for its weapons program.Wednesday’s ballistic missile launches by North Korea were the first of their kind since the country on May 8 tested short-range systems that simulated nuclear counterstrikes against U.S. and South Korean forces. They were also North Korea’s first ballistic missile testing activities since Lee took office in June with a promise&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-korea-lee-kim-jong-un-military-agreement-japan-d6d190d7b4cc4d8394bcbd7e057bf990">to push to restore peace</a>&nbsp;on the Korean Peninsula.Kim has been sharply accelerating the pace of weapons tests since his high-stakes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-north-korea-vietnam-north-america-1a282706835d427184efc29700f94121">nuclear diplomacy</a>&nbsp;with Trump fell apart in 2019 due to wrangling over the U.S.-led economic sanctions. But last month, Kim suggested he could&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-trump-kim-good-memories-nuclear-be9f1f41e56914ca07934bf7c50b8237">return to talks</a>&nbsp;if the U.S. drops its demand for North Korea’s denuclearization, after Trump repeatedly expressed his hopes for new diplomacy.Earlier this month, Kim displayed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-missile-kim-jong-un-8a6b9f3498d50effe3f72969bfe9c842">a new intercontinental ballistic missile</a>&nbsp;at a military parade attended by Chinese, Russian and other top officials. The parade highlighted Kim’s growing diplomatic footing and his relentless drive to build a reliable arsenal of nuclear missiles targeting the U.S. and its allies.North Korea’s state media said the Oct. 10 parade featured the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile, which it described as the country’s “most powerful nuclear strategic weapon system.” Observers said the new ICBM is designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads to defeat U.S. missile defenses and that North Korea could test-launch it in coming months.___Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.

North Korea test-fires ballistic missiles ahead of Trump’s Asia trip

Rolling Hills Zoo (RHZ) announced with heavy hearts that it has recently said goodbye to Andrea, the Zoo’s beloved female Amur tiger. Over the past several months, Andrea had been under close observation by RHZ’s animal care team and veterinary staff due to age-related declining health. Despite dedicated professional care and close monitoring, Andrea was experiencing an overall decline in her quality of life.

After careful consideration, the team made the compassionate decision to humanely euthanize Andrea, ensuring her comfort and dignity in her final moments.

Born April 28, 2008, at Saint Louis Zoological Park, Andrea was 17 years and 5 months old. The average life span of Amur tigers is typically 10–15 years, and slightly longer when in the care of humans.

Andrea transferred to Rolling Hills Zoo in 2016 from the Indianapolis Zoo under a breeding recommendation by the Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a program that works cooperatively with Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos to maintain healthy, genetically diverse animal populations. The SSP carefully evaluates the entire Amur tiger population across participating institutions and makes breeding recommendations aimed at preserving a 97% genetic diversity within the managed population.

During her time at Rolling Hills Zoo, Andrea gave birth to three cubs, having previously welcomed one cub while at the Indianapolis Zoo. She played an important role in supporting the growth and sustainability of the Amur tiger population within AZA zoos — an incredible contribution to the long-term conservation of this critically endangered species.

“Andrea was a great companion to the other tigers living at RHZ. She was also a tentative mother to the three cubs that were born here. She easily captured the hearts of anyone that had the privilege of taking care of her,” shared Vickie Musselman, RHZ Registrar.

“Andrea was very patient with the keepers when it came to training, especially those just starting out,” said Kira Noda, RHZ Associate Curator. “She always had a calm and confident demeanor in everything that she did. My favorite activity with Andrea was feeding time —

as she would sit patiently waiting for you to feed her. Andrea will be greatly missed by everyone that has cared for her while at Rolling Hills Zoo.”

Andrea’s presence, strength, and gentle spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her and those who visit Rolling Hills Zoo. Her legacy lives on through her cubs and the continued conservation work of zoos around the world.

For more information about Rolling Hills Zoo and its ongoing conservation and animal care efforts, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org/">rollinghillszoo.org</a>&nbsp;or follow the Zoo on social media.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761087978895.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo</figcaption>
 </figure>Rolling Hills ZooRolling Hills Zoo (RHZ) announced with heavy hearts that it has recently said goodbye to Andrea, the Zoo’s beloved female Amur tiger. Over the past several months, Andrea had been under close observation by RHZ’s animal care team and veterinary staff due to age-related declining health. Despite dedicated professional care and close monitoring, Andrea was experiencing an overall decline in her quality of life.After careful consideration, the team made the compassionate decision to humanely euthanize Andrea, ensuring her comfort and dignity in her final moments.Born April 28, 2008, at Saint Louis Zoological Park, Andrea was 17 years and 5 months old. The average life span of Amur tigers is typically 10–15 years, and slightly longer when in the care of humans.Andrea transferred to Rolling Hills Zoo in 2016 from the Indianapolis Zoo under a breeding recommendation by the Species Survival Plan® (SSP), a program that works cooperatively with Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoos to maintain healthy, genetically diverse animal populations. The SSP carefully evaluates the entire Amur tiger population across participating institutions and makes breeding recommendations aimed at preserving a 97% genetic diversity within the managed population.During her time at Rolling Hills Zoo, Andrea gave birth to three cubs, having previously welcomed one cub while at the Indianapolis Zoo. She played an important role in supporting the growth and sustainability of the Amur tiger population within AZA zoos — an incredible contribution to the long-term conservation of this critically endangered species.“Andrea was a great companion to the other tigers living at RHZ. She was also a tentative mother to the three cubs that were born here. She easily captured the hearts of anyone that had the privilege of taking care of her,” shared Vickie Musselman, RHZ Registrar.“Andrea was very patient with the keepers when it came to training, especially those just starting out,” said Kira Noda, RHZ Associate Curator. “She always had a calm and confident demeanor in everything that she did. My favorite activity with Andrea was feeding time —as she would sit patiently waiting for you to feed her. Andrea will be greatly missed by everyone that has cared for her while at Rolling Hills Zoo.”Andrea’s presence, strength, and gentle spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her and those who visit Rolling Hills Zoo. Her legacy lives on through her cubs and the continued conservation work of zoos around the world.For more information about Rolling Hills Zoo and its ongoing conservation and animal care efforts, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://rollinghillszoo.org/">rollinghillszoo.org</a>&nbsp;or follow the Zoo on social media.

Kansas zoo mourns loss of beloved Amur tiger

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man jailed in connection with a fatal drug overdose involving a teen made his first court appearance on Monday.

&nbsp;Isaac L. Hord, 24, was charged with first-degree murder and aggravated&nbsp; endangering a child in the death of 15-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

Just before 8a.m. on&nbsp;September 14, police responded to the report of a deceased 15-year-old in Wichita, according to a media release from police. The investigation determined the death to be the result of a drug overdose.

Since then, Wichita police overdose analyst have been working to pursue justice and ensure accountability for the people responsible for this senseless death.&nbsp;

Just after 5:30p.m. Oct. 15,&nbsp;K-9 officers arrested Hord, in connection with this case. He remains in custody in the Sedgwick Count Jail on a one-million dollar bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760610637070.png" alt="Hord-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hord-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man jailed in connection with a fatal drug overdose involving a teen made his first court appearance on Monday.&nbsp;Isaac L. Hord, 24, was charged with first-degree murder and aggravated&nbsp; endangering a child in the death of 15-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079684304.png" alt="<a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>&nbsp;-photo courtesy Cozine Memorial Group" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.cozine.com/obituaries/kennedy-herren" target="_blank">Kennedy Herren</a>&nbsp;-photo courtesy Cozine Memorial Group</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 8a.m. on&nbsp;September 14, police responded to the report of a deceased 15-year-old in Wichita, according to a media release from police. The investigation determined the death to be the result of a drug overdose.Since then, Wichita police overdose analyst have been working to pursue justice and ensure accountability for the people responsible for this senseless death.&nbsp;Just after 5:30p.m. Oct. 15,&nbsp;K-9 officers arrested Hord, in connection with this case. He remains in custody in the Sedgwick Count Jail on a one-million dollar bond, according to online jail records.

Suspect in overdose death of Kansas girl faces a judge

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Tuesday his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-putin-russia-ukraine-e3a1d62d2a24f459aa6dbbfa940e1067">plan for a swift meeting</a>&nbsp;with Russian leader Vladimir Putin was on hold because he didn't want it to be a “waste of time.” It was the latest twist in Trump's stop-and-go effort to resolve the war in Ukraine.

The decision to hold off on the meeting in Budapest, Hungary, which Trump had announced last week, was made following a call Monday between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

“I don’t want to have a wasted meeting,” Trump said. “I don’t want to have a waste of time — so we’ll see what happens.”

Lavrov made clear in public comments Tuesday that Russia is opposed to an immediate ceasefire. Trump, meanwhile, has been shifting his stance all year on key issues in the war, including whether a ceasefire should come before longer-term peace talks, and whether Ukraine could win back land seized by Russia during almost four years of fighting.

Trump's hesitancy in meeting Putin will likely come as a relief to European leaders, who have accused Putin of stalling for time with diplomacy while trying to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-blackout-energy-winter-grid-074fafac8a4b5bb556308379808d041b">gain ground on the battlefield</a>.

The leaders — including the British prime minister, French president and German chancellor — said they opposed any push to make Ukraine surrender land captured by Russian forces in return for peace, as Trump most recently has suggested.

They also plan to push forward with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-russia-assets-frozen-loans-plan-91929d8b2263ace7ea452157f19a6222">plans to use</a>&nbsp;billions of dollars in frozen Russian assets to help fund Ukraine’s war efforts, despite some misgivings about the legality and consequences of such a step.

The U.S. and Russian presidents last&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-ukraine-war-takeaways-b9ff04c4143c6ac228e196ddaf6dd6d3">met in Alaska</a>&nbsp;in August, but the encounter did not advance Trump’s stalled attempts to end a war that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The Kremlin didn’t seem to be in a rush to get Trump and Putin together again either. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that “preparation is needed, serious preparation” before a meeting.

Trump suggested that decisions about the meeting would be made in the coming days.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been trying to strengthen Ukraine's position by seeking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tomahawk-cruise-missile-ukraine-united-states-trump-a0b292b0a0a51486305346550f30f6c0">long-range Tomahawk missiles</a>&nbsp;from the U.S., although Trump has waffled on whether he would provide them.

“We need to end this war, and only pressure will lead to peace,” Zelenskyy said Tuesday in a Telegram post.

He noted that Putin returned to diplomacy and called Trump last week when it looked like Tomahawk missiles were a possibility. But "as soon as the pressure eased a little, the Russians began to try to drop diplomacy, postpone the dialogue,” Zelenskyy said.

On Wednesday, Trump is expected to hold talks in the White House with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The military alliance has been coordinating deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, many of them&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-trump-drones-05ba74cd9fbefcd81cc90886d091af5a">purchased from the U.S.</a>&nbsp;by Canada and European countries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755286154581.png" alt="File photo Russian President Putin and President Trump during the summit in Alaska-image White House" />
 <figcaption>File photo Russian President Putin and President Trump during the summit in Alaska-image White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Tuesday his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-putin-russia-ukraine-e3a1d62d2a24f459aa6dbbfa940e1067">plan for a swift meeting</a>&nbsp;with Russian leader Vladimir Putin was on hold because he didn't want it to be a “waste of time.” It was the latest twist in Trump's stop-and-go effort to resolve the war in Ukraine.The decision to hold off on the meeting in Budapest, Hungary, which Trump had announced last week, was made following a call Monday between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.“I don’t want to have a wasted meeting,” Trump said. “I don’t want to have a waste of time — so we’ll see what happens.”Lavrov made clear in public comments Tuesday that Russia is opposed to an immediate ceasefire. Trump, meanwhile, has been shifting his stance all year on key issues in the war, including whether a ceasefire should come before longer-term peace talks, and whether Ukraine could win back land seized by Russia during almost four years of fighting.Trump's hesitancy in meeting Putin will likely come as a relief to European leaders, who have accused Putin of stalling for time with diplomacy while trying to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-blackout-energy-winter-grid-074fafac8a4b5bb556308379808d041b">gain ground on the battlefield</a>.The leaders — including the British prime minister, French president and German chancellor — said they opposed any push to make Ukraine surrender land captured by Russian forces in return for peace, as Trump most recently has suggested.They also plan to push forward with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-russia-assets-frozen-loans-plan-91929d8b2263ace7ea452157f19a6222">plans to use</a>&nbsp;billions of dollars in frozen Russian assets to help fund Ukraine’s war efforts, despite some misgivings about the legality and consequences of such a step.The U.S. and Russian presidents last&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-ukraine-war-takeaways-b9ff04c4143c6ac228e196ddaf6dd6d3">met in Alaska</a>&nbsp;in August, but the encounter did not advance Trump’s stalled attempts to end a war that began with Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.The Kremlin didn’t seem to be in a rush to get Trump and Putin together again either. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that “preparation is needed, serious preparation” before a meeting.Trump suggested that decisions about the meeting would be made in the coming days.<h2>What Ukraine wants from the US</h2>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been trying to strengthen Ukraine's position by seeking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tomahawk-cruise-missile-ukraine-united-states-trump-a0b292b0a0a51486305346550f30f6c0">long-range Tomahawk missiles</a>&nbsp;from the U.S., although Trump has waffled on whether he would provide them.“We need to end this war, and only pressure will lead to peace,” Zelenskyy said Tuesday in a Telegram post.He noted that Putin returned to diplomacy and called Trump last week when it looked like Tomahawk missiles were a possibility. But "as soon as the pressure eased a little, the Russians began to try to drop diplomacy, postpone the dialogue,” Zelenskyy said.On Wednesday, Trump is expected to hold talks in the White House with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The military alliance has been coordinating deliveries of weapons to Ukraine, many of them&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-trump-drones-05ba74cd9fbefcd81cc90886d091af5a">purchased from the U.S.</a>&nbsp;by Canada and European countries.A meeting of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-witkoff-europe-61ae60275a00cb442c743181df13b785">Coalition of the Willing</a>&nbsp;— a group of 35 countries who support Ukraine — is due to take place in London on Friday.<h2>How Trump's stance on the war has shifted</h2>Trump initially focused on pressuring Ukraine to make concessions, but then grew frustrated with Putin's intransigence. Trump often complains that he thought his good relationship with his Russian counterpart would have made it easier to end the war.Last month, Trump reversed his long-held position that Ukraine would have to give up land and suggested it could win back all the territory it has lost to Russia. But after a phone call with Putin last week and a subsequent meeting with Zelenskyy on Friday, Trump shifted his position again and called on Kyiv and Moscow to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-putin-ukraine-tomahawks-ce697e5eda6ce9793b4343499d105a8c">“stop where they are"</a>&nbsp;and end the war.On Sunday, Trump said the industrial Donbas region of eastern Ukraine should be “cut up,” leaving most of it in Russian hands.Trump said Monday that while he thinks it is possible that Ukraine can ultimately defeat Russia,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-trump-tomahawk-fd61aa7ed980d2fe111f0521073b5382">he’s now doubtful</a>&nbsp;it will happen.<h2>Ukrainian and European leaders trying to keep Trump on their side</h2>“We strongly support President Trump’s position that the fighting should stop immediately, and that the current line of contact should be the starting point of negotiations,” the leaders' statement said. “We can all see that Putin continues to choose violence and destruction."Lavrov made clear Tuesday that Russia opposes a ceasefire, Russian state news agencies reported. He told journalists in Moscow that it would go against what the two presidents agreed upon in Alaska. Trump had hoped to get Russia to stop the fighting, but he was rebuffed by Putin, who has pushed for a comprehensive settlement to end the war.Russia occupies about one fifth of Ukraine, but carving up their country in return for peace is unacceptable to Kyiv officials.Also, a conflict frozen on the current front line could fester, with occupied areas of Ukraine offering Moscow a springboard for new attacks in the future, Ukrainian and European officials fear.The statement by the leaders of Ukraine, the U.K., Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Denmark and EU officials came early in what Zelenskyy said Monday would be a week that is “very active in diplomacy.”More international economic sanctions on Russia are likely to be discussed at an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday.“We must ramp up the pressure on Russia’s economy and its defense industry, until Putin is ready to make peace,” Tuesday’s statement said.___WASHINGTON (AP) — Plans are on hold for President Donald Trump to sit down with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to talk about resolving the war in Ukraine, a U.S. official said Tuesday.The meeting had been announced last week. It was supposed to take place in Budapest, although a date had not been set.The decision was made following a call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.The official wasn’t authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated Tuesday there was no sense of urgency for Trump and Putin to meet, saying that “preparation is needed, serious preparation.”The back-and-forth over Trump’s plans is the latest bout of whiplash caused by his stutter-step efforts to resolve a conflict that has persisted for nearly four years.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders accused Putin of stalling for time to continue his invasion as diplomatic efforts took place. They also said they opposed any push to make Kyiv surrender land captured by Russian forces in return for peace, as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-drones-gas-strikes-energy-50826ce7b96814ad943d8721c1a2915c">Trump has on occasion suggested</a>.Eight European leaders as well as senior European Union officials said in a joint statement they intend to go ahead with plans to use Moscow’s billions of dollars (euros) of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-russia-assets-frozen-loans-plan-91929d8b2263ace7ea452157f19a6222">frozen assets abroad</a>&nbsp;to help Kyiv win the war, despite some misgivings about the legality and consequences of such a step.Zelenskyy noted that Putin returned to diplomacy and called Trump last week when facing the possibility that the U.S. would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tomahawk-missiles-russia-ukraine-war-522fb8bb8fe8ce87107e1eb320abae0e">supply Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles</a>.But “as soon as the pressure eased a little, the Russians began to try to drop diplomacy, postpone the dialogue,” Zelenskyy said Tuesday in a Telegram post.“We need to end this war, and only pressure will lead to peace,” he said.The leaders’ statement laid down a marker by saying the leaders “remain committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force.”Trump last month reversed his long-held position that Ukraine would have to concede land and suggested it could win back all the territory it has lost to Russia. However, after a phone call with Putin last week and a subsequent meeting with Zelenskyy on Friday, Trump shifted his position again and called on Kyiv and Moscow to “stop where they are” in the more than three-year war.On Sunday, Trump said that the industrial Donbas region of eastern Ukraine should be “cut up,” leaving most of it in Russian hands.Trump said Monday that while he thinks it is possible that Ukraine can ultimately defeat Russia,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-zelenskyy-trump-tomahawk-fd61aa7ed980d2fe111f0521073b5382">he’s now doubtful</a>&nbsp;it will happen.Ukrainian and European leaders are trying hard to keep Trump on their side.“We strongly support President Trump’s position that the fighting should stop immediately, and that the current line of contact should be the starting point of negotiations,” the statement said. “We can all see that Putin continues to choose violence and destruction.”The dynamics of Trump’s engagement with Europe’s biggest conflict since World War II&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-russia-ukraine-putin-comments-2b977a12e445817fffd6ef9f8df9aa38">have zigzagged</a>&nbsp;as he searches for a peace deal.Russia occupies about one fifth of Ukraine, but carving up their country in return for peace is unacceptable to Kyiv officials.Also, a conflict frozen on the current front line could fester, with occupied areas of Ukraine offering Moscow a springboard for new attacks in the future, Ukrainian and European officials fear.The statement by the leaders of Ukraine, the U.K., Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Denmark and EU officials came early in what Zelenskyy said Monday would be a week that is “very active in diplomacy.”More international economic sanctions on Russia are likely to be discussed at an EU summit in Brussels on Thursday.“We must ramp up the pressure on Russia’s economy and its defense industry, until Putin is ready to make peace,” Tuesday’s statement said.On Friday, a meeting of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-witkoff-europe-61ae60275a00cb442c743181df13b785">Coalition of the Willing</a>&nbsp;— a group of 35 countries who support Ukraine — is due to take place in London.___Associated Press writer Chris Megerian contributed.