SCOTT COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 466 officials are investigating a reported threat at the high school in Scott City, according to a statement from principal Matt Bayer released by the Scott City Police Department.

Police were notified and immediately began investigating. They determined the threat was not credible and did not believe there was any immediate danger to students and staff at the high school.

Law enforcement and school officials will continue to work together to maintain a safe environment for all students. There will continue to be a police presence at the school Friday to provide peace of mind for students and staff, according to Bayer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695338174658.png" alt="Scott City High School-Google image" />
 <figcaption>Scott City High School-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SCOTT COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 466 officials are investigating a reported threat at the high school in Scott City, according to a statement from principal Matt Bayer released by the Scott City Police Department.Police were notified and immediately began investigating. They determined the threat was not credible and did not believe there was any immediate danger to students and staff at the high school.Law enforcement and school officials will continue to work together to maintain a safe environment for all students. There will continue to be a police presence at the school Friday to provide peace of mind for students and staff, according to Bayer.

School threat: Police presence continues at Kansas high school 

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has been charged with two counts of murder after detectives in a newly formed cold case unit connected him to the deaths of two women nearly three decades ago.

DNA evidence led to the arrest of 52-year-old Gary Dion Davis, Kansas City Police Chief Karl Oakman and Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Dupree said Wednesday. Davis is jailed on a $500,000 bond for two counts of second-degree murder, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article279564234.html">Kansas City Star</a>&nbsp;reported.

Davis was a long-haul truck driver in the 1990s. He is accused of killing 26-year-old Christina King, who was found beaten to death behind an abandoned building on Christmas Day in 1996. He also is charged with fatally stabbing Pearl Barnes, whose body was found in a vacant house a month earlier.

Davis does not yet have a listed attorney. Two phone numbers listed for him were no longer in service, and a third had a full mailbox and wasn't accepting messages on Thursday.

The circumstances behind the deaths are still being investigated, but police said they do not believe that Davis knew either of the women. Detectives are trying to determine if Davis could be responsible for other crimes.

The Kansas City Kansas Police Department's cold case unit began operation in January 2022 and consists of three full-time detectives. Oakman said the department has “a lot of unsolved cases” and already had identified suspects in 11 homicide cases.

"So, it may not be today. It may not be tomorrow. In fact, it may not be this year. But there’s gonna be a time,” Oakman said. “You may be in a drive-thru line. You may be at the grocery store. We’re gonna eventually get you.”

Authorities also announced that two other unrelated cases were recently solved.

A 66-year-old inmate was charged in May after he confessed to killing 16-year-old Dion Estell, who was found shot to death in a creek bed in July 1997. The inmate, who was convicted of a 1998 killing and is now in hospice care, confessed to cold case detectives because he wanted closure for Estell's family.

The oldest case cleared involved the death of an hours-old baby girl found in a dumpster behind an apartment complex in November 1976. DNA evidence led detectives to the mother of the child in 2022.

The woman accused her grandmother of taking the baby away shortly after she gave birth. The grandmother, who has since died, was identified as the primary suspect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695293051137.png" alt="Davis-photo Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Davis-photo Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has been charged with two counts of murder after detectives in a newly formed cold case unit connected him to the deaths of two women nearly three decades ago.DNA evidence led to the arrest of 52-year-old Gary Dion Davis, Kansas City Police Chief Karl Oakman and Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Dupree said Wednesday. Davis is jailed on a $500,000 bond for two counts of second-degree murder, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article279564234.html">Kansas City Star</a>&nbsp;reported.Davis was a long-haul truck driver in the 1990s. He is accused of killing 26-year-old Christina King, who was found beaten to death behind an abandoned building on Christmas Day in 1996. He also is charged with fatally stabbing Pearl Barnes, whose body was found in a vacant house a month earlier.Davis does not yet have a listed attorney. Two phone numbers listed for him were no longer in service, and a third had a full mailbox and wasn't accepting messages on Thursday.The circumstances behind the deaths are still being investigated, but police said they do not believe that Davis knew either of the women. Detectives are trying to determine if Davis could be responsible for other crimes.The Kansas City Kansas Police Department's cold case unit began operation in January 2022 and consists of three full-time detectives. Oakman said the department has “a lot of unsolved cases” and already had identified suspects in 11 homicide cases."So, it may not be today. It may not be tomorrow. In fact, it may not be this year. But there’s gonna be a time,” Oakman said. “You may be in a drive-thru line. You may be at the grocery store. We’re gonna eventually get you.”Authorities also announced that two other unrelated cases were recently solved.A 66-year-old inmate was charged in May after he confessed to killing 16-year-old Dion Estell, who was found shot to death in a creek bed in July 1997. The inmate, who was convicted of a 1998 killing and is now in hospice care, confessed to cold case detectives because he wanted closure for Estell's family.The oldest case cleared involved the death of an hours-old baby girl found in a dumpster behind an apartment complex in November 1976. DNA evidence led detectives to the mother of the child in 2022.The woman accused her grandmother of taking the baby away shortly after she gave birth. The grandmother, who has since died, was identified as the primary suspect.

Kan. cold case detectives connect 2 killings to the same suspect

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just before 1:30a.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy&nbsp;conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 75, near Carbondale, for an alleged traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.

The driver of the vehicle, Michael S. Brumbaugh, 52, of Osage City was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of cocaine and Interference with law enforcement

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695137870483.png" alt="Brumbaugh-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Brumbaugh-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just before 1:30a.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy&nbsp;conducted a traffic stop on U.S. 75, near Carbondale, for an alleged traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.The driver of the vehicle, Michael S. Brumbaugh, 52, of Osage City was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of cocaine and Interference with law enforcement

Sheriff: Kansas man caught transporting cocaine

LYON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating after the bodies of two Kansas&nbsp; women 44-year-old Linda L. Estrada and 39-year-old&nbsp; Amy R. Ford were located in rural eastern Colorado, according to Emporia Police Captain Lisa Hayes.

The Emporia Police Department began their investigation in the early morning hours of Monday September 11, after a family member reported Linda Estrada as missing. 

Police learned Estrada and Amy Ford had been together in Colorado the previous weekend. Amy was reported missing shortly after the investigation began.

Emporia Police Investigations Division utilized cellular phone technology, along with security videos and solid police work to track the&nbsp; the two woman throughout Colorado. The investigation led detectives to portions of eastern Colorado and western Kansas. 

Authorities in Colorado spent 5 days searching with the aid of K9s, airplanes, drones and ground searches. On September 18, Emporia detectives traveled to eastern Colorado where they coordinated with local authorities. Just before 4p.m. CDT, Wednesday, the bodies were found in rural eastern Colorado.

A person of interest to the case is in custody on charges not related to this specific investigation, according to Hayes. The individual’s name will not be released by the Emporia Police Department at this time, due to the continuing investigation(s) in Colorado. Police confirmed the individual has been cooperative.

The investigation is being turned over to an eastern Colorado Sheriff’s Office and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695324168687.png" alt="&nbsp;Amy Ford and Linda Estrada-photo Emporia Police" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Amy Ford and Linda Estrada-photo Emporia Police</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating after the bodies of two Kansas&nbsp; women 44-year-old Linda L. Estrada and 39-year-old&nbsp; Amy R. Ford were located in rural eastern Colorado, according to Emporia Police Captain Lisa Hayes.The Emporia Police Department began their investigation in the early morning hours of Monday September 11, after a family member reported Linda Estrada as missing. Police learned Estrada and Amy Ford had been together in Colorado the previous weekend. Amy was reported missing shortly after the investigation began.Emporia Police Investigations Division utilized cellular phone technology, along with security videos and solid police work to track the&nbsp; the two woman throughout Colorado. The investigation led detectives to portions of eastern Colorado and western Kansas. Authorities in Colorado spent 5 days searching with the aid of K9s, airplanes, drones and ground searches. On September 18, Emporia detectives traveled to eastern Colorado where they coordinated with local authorities. Just before 4p.m. CDT, Wednesday, the bodies were found in rural eastern Colorado.A person of interest to the case is in custody on charges not related to this specific investigation, according to Hayes. The individual’s name will not be released by the Emporia Police Department at this time, due to the continuing investigation(s) in Colorado. Police confirmed the individual has been cooperative.The investigation is being turned over to an eastern Colorado Sheriff’s Office and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.

Police: Bodies of 2 missing Kansas women found in Colorado

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Texas man in connection with a theft from an ATM.

Just after 9:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 23-year-old Augustus Sherman Jr, 23, of Houston, Texas on a Riley County District Court warrant for burglary of a motor vehicle, two counts of theft, and two counts of criminal damage to property, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The charges stem from a 2022 incident in which Sherman was alleged to be involved in the theft of a vehicle and money from an ATM in Manhattan.

The total bond was set at $12,000 and he remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Texas man in connection with a theft from an ATM.Just after 9:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 23-year-old Augustus Sherman Jr, 23, of Houston, Texas on a Riley County District Court warrant for burglary of a motor vehicle, two counts of theft, and two counts of criminal damage to property, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The charges stem from a 2022 incident in which Sherman was alleged to be involved in the theft of a vehicle and money from an ATM in Manhattan.The total bond was set at $12,000 and he remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

Texas man accused of theft from ATM in Kansas

CLOUD COUNTY —The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and law enforcement authorities in north central Kansas are conducting a death investigation after a shooting occurred at a party September 16, in rural Cloud County, according to a media release.

Just before 11:30p.m., a Clay Center resident called the Cloud County Sheriff's office to request help locating a 14-year-old family member. The girl reportedly ran away and was thought to be attending a party near the small community of Aurora, Kansas.

A Cloud County deputy responded to the outdoor field party near 210th Road and Lark Road.&nbsp; High school and college students were in attendance.

&nbsp;The deputy located the girl and tried to convince her to return to her family.&nbsp; As he was escorting her to his patrol vehicle, she pulled out a firearm and shot herself. The deputy did not draw his firearm.

The deputy and an off-duty firefighter attempted life-saving measures. Shortly after midnight, the teen was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;

Multiple individuals attending the party witnessed the incident. Law enforcement is interviewing them as part of the investigation.

CLOUD COUNTY —The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and law enforcement authorities in north central Kansas are conducting a death investigation after a shooting occurred at a party September 16, in rural Cloud County, according to a media release.Just before 11:30p.m., a Clay Center resident called the Cloud County Sheriff's office to request help locating a 14-year-old family member. The girl reportedly ran away and was thought to be attending a party near the small community of Aurora, Kansas.A Cloud County deputy responded to the outdoor field party near 210th Road and Lark Road.&nbsp; High school and college students were in attendance.&nbsp;The deputy located the girl and tried to convince her to return to her family.&nbsp; As he was escorting her to his patrol vehicle, she pulled out a firearm and shot herself. The deputy did not draw his firearm.The deputy and an off-duty firefighter attempted life-saving measures. Shortly after midnight, the teen was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;Multiple individuals attending the party witnessed the incident. Law enforcement is interviewing them as part of the investigation.

KBI investigating death of 14-year-old girl at outdoor party

LAS VEGAS (AP) — MGM Resorts brought to an end a 10-day computer shutdown prompted by efforts to shield from a cyberattack data including hotel reservations and credit card processing, the casino giant said Wednesday, as analysts and academics measured the effects of the event.

“We are pleased that all of our hotels and casinos are operating normally,” the Las Vegas-based company posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. It&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mgm-resorts-casino-vegas-cybersecurity-outage-06de044bdf1880af2a8bce1a38c986ee">reported last week</a>&nbsp;that the attack was detected Sept. 10.

Rival casino owner Caesars Entertainment also disclosed last week&nbsp;<a href="https://investor.caesars.com/static-files/0bc13ee5-34a9-402e-8e7a-824b9dba4e57">to federal regulators</a>&nbsp;that it was hit by a cyberattack Sept. 7. It said that its casino and online operations were not disrupted but it could not guarantee that personal information about tens of millions of customers, including driver’s licenses and Social Security numbers of loyalty rewards members, had not been compromised.

Caesars, based in Reno, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vegas-casinos-mgm-resorts-caesars-cyberattack-shutdown-3f7f80d0d200e9f26a2efa88bc5a6862">widely reported to have paid</a>&nbsp;$15 million of a $30 million ransom sought by a group called Scattered Spider for a promise to secure the data.

Details about the extent of the MGM breach were not immediately disclosed, including the kind of information that may have been compromised and how much it cost the company.

Gregory Moody, professor and director of the cybersecurity program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, pointed to quoted estimates that the computer shutdown cost the company up to $8 million per day, which could put the cumulative effect at $80 million. But Moody also noted that MGM Resorts reports annual revenues above $14 billion, which would mean it averages at least $270 million in revenues per week.

The company reported Wednesday that systems handling resort services, dining, entertainment, pools and spas were operational and its website and app were taking dining and spa reservations while the company worked to restore hotel booking and loyalty reward functions.

"MGM Resorts properties in Las Vegas and throughout the country are back to normal operations," spokesman Brian Ahern told The Associated Press. MGM also has properties in Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York and Ohio.

FBI spokeswoman Sandra Breault in Las Vegas declined to comment and referred to a previous statement by the agency saying an investigation was ongoing.

Experts said the attacks exposed critical cybersecurity weaknesses at MGM and Caesars and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vegas-casinos-mgm-caesars-cyberattack-59644d2cb0f2a765770d30f268b81a11">shattered an image of casino invulnerability</a>.

“At this point, all casinos should be moving to the highest defensive posture possible and taking active measures to verify the integrity of their systems and environment, and reviewing — if not activating — their incident response processes,” said Christopher Budd, a director of threat research at cybersecurity firm Sophos X-Ops. “There’s been attacks against multiple casinos, and it’s possible we’ll see more.”

Caesars Entertainment is the largest casino owner in the world, with more than 65 million rewards members and properties in 18 states and Canada under the Caesars, Harrah’s, Horseshoe and Eldorado brands. It also has mobile and online operations and sports betting.

MGM Resorts is the largest private employer in Nevada, operating tens of thousands of hotel rooms in Las Vegas at its flagship MGM Grand and properties including Bellagio, Aria, New York-New York and Mandalay Bay. It also operates resorts in China and Macau. It employees 75,000 people in the U.S. and abroad.

Caesars stock traded Wednesday at $50.17 per share, up 36 cents for the day. MGM shares were at $38.77, down 43 cents. Both companies are expected to disclose effects of the attacks in quarterly reports next month to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The attack on MGM also has been attributed to Scattered Spider, a group of English-speakers also sometimes known as Øktapus operating under a Russia-based operation called ALPHV or BlackCat.

“But there are a lot of conflicting reports,” said David Richardson, an executive at cybersecurity firm Lookout. “You have Scattered Spider claiming that they’ve done both in various forums, and ALPHV, saying that Scattered Spider wasn’t involved with the other. But there’s a lot of technical evidence that shows that there’s a relationship between the two."

Lisa Plaggemier, executive director at the nonprofit&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.staysafeonline.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ckritter%40ap.org%7Cca0a20ea9b804d508b7d08dbba1f1bcb%7Ce442e1abfd6b4ba3abf3b020eb50df37%7C1%7C0%7C638308415018540478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mb7J%2FcYXYobsfimbQlMHY8zqn4%2B%2FU6M1B2XdGgBX3B8%3D&amp;reserved=0">National Cybersecurity Alliance</a>, called MGM’s decision to shut down vulnerable systems to prevent intrusion a positive step but said it highlighted “significant" security gaps and an urgent need for substantial investment in employee training and cybersecurity. The risk, she said, is ”downtime and financial losses."

“Caesars Entertainment’s decision to pay the ransom highlighted a lack of confidence and investment in their cyber defenses,” Plaggemier said.

Moody, at UNLV, said via email that the attacks showed that even for well-prepared or technically advanced companies, “it is not a matter of if you get attacked, but when you get attacked.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695299433606.png" alt="Rival casino owner Caesars Entertainment also disclosed last week&nbsp;<a href="https://investor.caesars.com/static-files/0bc13ee5-34a9-402e-8e7a-824b9dba4e57">to federal regulators</a>&nbsp;that it was hit by a cyberattack Sept. 7" />
 <figcaption>Rival casino owner Caesars Entertainment also disclosed last week&nbsp;<a href="https://investor.caesars.com/static-files/0bc13ee5-34a9-402e-8e7a-824b9dba4e57">to federal regulators</a>&nbsp;that it was hit by a cyberattack Sept. 7</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — MGM Resorts brought to an end a 10-day computer shutdown prompted by efforts to shield from a cyberattack data including hotel reservations and credit card processing, the casino giant said Wednesday, as analysts and academics measured the effects of the event.“We are pleased that all of our hotels and casinos are operating normally,” the Las Vegas-based company posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. It&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mgm-resorts-casino-vegas-cybersecurity-outage-06de044bdf1880af2a8bce1a38c986ee">reported last week</a>&nbsp;that the attack was detected Sept. 10.Rival casino owner Caesars Entertainment also disclosed last week&nbsp;<a href="https://investor.caesars.com/static-files/0bc13ee5-34a9-402e-8e7a-824b9dba4e57">to federal regulators</a>&nbsp;that it was hit by a cyberattack Sept. 7. It said that its casino and online operations were not disrupted but it could not guarantee that personal information about tens of millions of customers, including driver’s licenses and Social Security numbers of loyalty rewards members, had not been compromised.Caesars, based in Reno, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vegas-casinos-mgm-resorts-caesars-cyberattack-shutdown-3f7f80d0d200e9f26a2efa88bc5a6862">widely reported to have paid</a>&nbsp;$15 million of a $30 million ransom sought by a group called Scattered Spider for a promise to secure the data.Details about the extent of the MGM breach were not immediately disclosed, including the kind of information that may have been compromised and how much it cost the company.Gregory Moody, professor and director of the cybersecurity program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, pointed to quoted estimates that the computer shutdown cost the company up to $8 million per day, which could put the cumulative effect at $80 million. But Moody also noted that MGM Resorts reports annual revenues above $14 billion, which would mean it averages at least $270 million in revenues per week.The company reported Wednesday that systems handling resort services, dining, entertainment, pools and spas were operational and its website and app were taking dining and spa reservations while the company worked to restore hotel booking and loyalty reward functions."MGM Resorts properties in Las Vegas and throughout the country are back to normal operations," spokesman Brian Ahern told The Associated Press. MGM also has properties in Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York and Ohio.FBI spokeswoman Sandra Breault in Las Vegas declined to comment and referred to a previous statement by the agency saying an investigation was ongoing.Experts said the attacks exposed critical cybersecurity weaknesses at MGM and Caesars and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vegas-casinos-mgm-caesars-cyberattack-59644d2cb0f2a765770d30f268b81a11">shattered an image of casino invulnerability</a>.“At this point, all casinos should be moving to the highest defensive posture possible and taking active measures to verify the integrity of their systems and environment, and reviewing — if not activating — their incident response processes,” said Christopher Budd, a director of threat research at cybersecurity firm Sophos X-Ops. “There’s been attacks against multiple casinos, and it’s possible we’ll see more.”Caesars Entertainment is the largest casino owner in the world, with more than 65 million rewards members and properties in 18 states and Canada under the Caesars, Harrah’s, Horseshoe and Eldorado brands. It also has mobile and online operations and sports betting.MGM Resorts is the largest private employer in Nevada, operating tens of thousands of hotel rooms in Las Vegas at its flagship MGM Grand and properties including Bellagio, Aria, New York-New York and Mandalay Bay. It also operates resorts in China and Macau. It employees 75,000 people in the U.S. and abroad.Caesars stock traded Wednesday at $50.17 per share, up 36 cents for the day. MGM shares were at $38.77, down 43 cents. Both companies are expected to disclose effects of the attacks in quarterly reports next month to the Securities and Exchange Commission.The attack on MGM also has been attributed to Scattered Spider, a group of English-speakers also sometimes known as Øktapus operating under a Russia-based operation called ALPHV or BlackCat.“But there are a lot of conflicting reports,” said David Richardson, an executive at cybersecurity firm Lookout. “You have Scattered Spider claiming that they’ve done both in various forums, and ALPHV, saying that Scattered Spider wasn’t involved with the other. But there’s a lot of technical evidence that shows that there’s a relationship between the two."Lisa Plaggemier, executive director at the nonprofit&nbsp;<a href="https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.staysafeonline.org%2F&amp;data=05%7C01%7Ckritter%40ap.org%7Cca0a20ea9b804d508b7d08dbba1f1bcb%7Ce442e1abfd6b4ba3abf3b020eb50df37%7C1%7C0%7C638308415018540478%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=mb7J%2FcYXYobsfimbQlMHY8zqn4%2B%2FU6M1B2XdGgBX3B8%3D&amp;reserved=0">National Cybersecurity Alliance</a>, called MGM’s decision to shut down vulnerable systems to prevent intrusion a positive step but said it highlighted “significant" security gaps and an urgent need for substantial investment in employee training and cybersecurity. The risk, she said, is ”downtime and financial losses."“Caesars Entertainment’s decision to pay the ransom highlighted a lack of confidence and investment in their cyber defenses,” Plaggemier said.Moody, at UNLV, said via email that the attacks showed that even for well-prepared or technically advanced companies, “it is not a matter of if you get attacked, but when you get attacked.”

Las Vegas hotel casino lost millions after 10 day cyberattack

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a whirlwind return visit to Washington on Thursday to shore up U.S. support for Ukraine, delivering an upbeat message on the war's progress while facing new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-ukraine-funding-zelenskyy-mccarthy-9bced4d9a8c16ae5bf148f640b6f2c31">questions about the flow of American dollars</a>&nbsp;that for 19 months has helped keep his troops in the fight against Russian forces.

The Ukrainian leader received a far quieter reception than the hero's welcome he got last year, but also won generally favorable comments on the aid he says he needs to stave off defeat.

Kansas junior Senator Roger Marshall did not attend the meeting and on social media explained why.

Zelenskyy, in long-sleeve olive drab, came to the Capitol with a firm message in private talks with Republican and Democratic leaders. The Ukrainians have a solid war plan, and “they are winning,” lawmakers quoted him as assuring them, at a time that the world is watching Western support for Kyiv.

Zelenskyy also spoke with military leaders at the Pentagon and was meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin greeted Zelenskyy at the Pentagon without the usual ceremonial band or fanfare that is typical of a high-level visit.

The Ukrainian president faced varying levels of skepticism from House lawmakers. Republican leaders pressed him for his plans for winning Ukraine's counteroffensive against invading Russian forces, as the war moves closer to the two-year mark without major breakthroughs in Russia's heavily mined lines.

Zelensky “conceded that it’s tough, very tough to overcome entrenched defenses,” Independent Sen. Angus King said. “They believe they will make slow but steady progress, but it’s not going to be quick.”

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who faces opposition on support for Ukraine among far-right Republicans aligned with former President Donald Trump, notably chose not to join House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in greeting the Ukrainian president when he arrived at the Capitol. McCarthy also confirmed that he declined Zelenskyy’s request for a joint session of Congress, as happened during the Ukrainian president’s dramatic visit to Washington last winter, saying there wasn’t time for that on short notice.

But McCarthy called it a productive session.

“It was direct, it was honest, they answered some of the questions,” McCarthy said. “I heard a lot of positive things.”

Republican Rep. Mike Turner, the chairman of the House Select Intelligence Committee, said Zelenskyy “gave us details on the offensive that were very positive and his long-term goals and objectives. People in the room appreciated and supported it.”

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul said lawmakers had been looking for assurance that there was a clear strategy for victory.

“War of attrition is not going to win this,” McCaul said. “That’s what Putin wants," he said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "He wants to break the will of the American people and the Europeans.”

It is Zelenskyy's second visit to Washington since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia invaded Ukraine</a>&nbsp;in February 2022 and comes as Biden's request to Congress for an additional $24 billion for Ukraine’s military and humanitarian needs is hanging in the balance. Back home, Russian launched its heaviest strikes in a month in the hours before Zelenskyy’s arrival at Congress, killing three, igniting fires and damaging energy infrastructure as Russian missiles and artillery pounded cities across Ukraine.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby called the Ukrainian president “our best messenger” in persuading U.S. lawmakers to keep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-invasion-biden-congress-funding-d392f9b1adbb9c44249dce1cccdc2d1e">vital U.S. money</a>&nbsp;and weapons coming.

“It’s really important for members of Congress to be able to hear directly from the president about what he's facing in this counteroffensive," Kirby told reporters Wednesday, "and how he’s achieving his goals, and what he needs to continue to achieve those goals."

Biden has called on world leaders to stand strong with Ukraine, even as he faces domestic political divisions at home. A hard-right flank of Republicans, led by Trump, Biden’s chief rival in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">the 2024 race</a>&nbsp;for the White House, is increasingly opposed to sending more money overseas.

Zelenskyy faces challenges in Europe as well as cracks emerge in what had been a largely united Western alliance behind Ukraine.

Late Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poland-ukraine-weapons-russia-war-trade-dispute-5e2e7a194b5238b86c160f0f4848b4f3">Poland’s prime minister said his country is no longer sending arms</a>&nbsp;to Ukraine, a comment that appeared aimed at pressuring Kyiv and put Poland’s status as a major source of military equipment in doubt as a trade dispute between the neighboring states escalates.

Zelenskyy’s visit comes with U.S. and world government leaders watching as Ukrainian forces struggle to take back territory that Russia gained over the past year. Their progress in the next month or so before the rains come and the ground turns to mud could be critical to rousing additional global support over the winter. Russian President Putin, who believes he can outlast allied backing for Kyiv, will be ready to capitalize if he sees Ukraine is running low on air defense or other weapons.

Administration officials were set to announce another $325 million Thursday in what’s known as presidential drawdown assistance for Ukraine. The package will include dual-purpose improved conventional munitions, or&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-cluster-munition-war-7332fa86b3c52d1ea8d63f92a7d5c2cb">cluster munitions</a>, and ammunition for HIMARS rocket artillery systems, two U.S. officials said on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the weapons package prior to its announcement.

Since the start of the war, most members of Congress supported approving four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totaling about $113 billion, viewing defense of the country and its democracy as an imperative, especially when it comes to containing Putin. Some of that money went toward replenishing U.S. military equipment sent to the frontlines.

Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, who traveled to Kyiv this week, said cutting off U.S. aid during the Ukrainians’ counteroffensive would be “catastrophic” to their efforts.

“That would clearly be the opening that Putin is looking for,” Kelly said Wednesday. “They cannot be successful without our support.”

The political environment has shifted markedly since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-68c65b3274e552f36f16853f24fedbb9">Zelenskyy addressed Congress</a>&nbsp;last December on his first trip out of Ukraine since the war began. He was met with rapturous applause for his country’s bravery and surprisingly strong showing in the war.

His meeting with senators on Thursday took place behind closed doors in the Old Senate Chamber, a historic and intimate place of importance at the U.S. Capitol, signifying the respect the Senate is showing the foreign leader.

Zelenskyy received a warm welcome from both parties on his stop in the Senate. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Majority Leader Chuck Schumer flanked him as he walked in. A few lawmakers of both parties wore clothes with blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag.

Rep. Steny Hoyer, Democrat of Maryland who attended the House meeting with Zelenskyy and lawmakers, said that McCarthy made no promises but that Republicans and Democrats were united in supporting Ukraine.

“I think the message was not necessarily a promise but a determination to make sure that we could help Ukraine win this war for freedom and for all of us,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695308479356.png" alt="Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, center, walks with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., left, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of N.Y., right, at Capitol Hill on Thursday morning -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, center, walks with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., left, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of N.Y., right, at Capitol Hill on Thursday morning -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a whirlwind return visit to Washington on Thursday to shore up U.S. support for Ukraine, delivering an upbeat message on the war's progress while facing new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-ukraine-funding-zelenskyy-mccarthy-9bced4d9a8c16ae5bf148f640b6f2c31">questions about the flow of American dollars</a>&nbsp;that for 19 months has helped keep his troops in the fight against Russian forces.The Ukrainian leader received a far quieter reception than the hero's welcome he got last year, but also won generally favorable comments on the aid he says he needs to stave off defeat.Kansas junior Senator Roger Marshall did not attend the meeting and on social media explained why.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Read my statement on President Zelenskyy’s Senate Visit ⬇️ <a href="https://t.co/7zcWxoDdy5">pic.twitter.com/7zcWxoDdy5</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1704868498625774029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Zelenskyy, in long-sleeve olive drab, came to the Capitol with a firm message in private talks with Republican and Democratic leaders. The Ukrainians have a solid war plan, and “they are winning,” lawmakers quoted him as assuring them, at a time that the world is watching Western support for Kyiv.Zelenskyy also spoke with military leaders at the Pentagon and was meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin greeted Zelenskyy at the Pentagon without the usual ceremonial band or fanfare that is typical of a high-level visit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695303870802.png" alt="House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries walks with Zelensky in the Capitol early Thursday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries walks with Zelensky in the Capitol early Thursday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>The Ukrainian president faced varying levels of skepticism from House lawmakers. Republican leaders pressed him for his plans for winning Ukraine's counteroffensive against invading Russian forces, as the war moves closer to the two-year mark without major breakthroughs in Russia's heavily mined lines.Zelensky “conceded that it’s tough, very tough to overcome entrenched defenses,” Independent Sen. Angus King said. “They believe they will make slow but steady progress, but it’s not going to be quick.”House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who faces opposition on support for Ukraine among far-right Republicans aligned with former President Donald Trump, notably chose not to join House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries in greeting the Ukrainian president when he arrived at the Capitol. McCarthy also confirmed that he declined Zelenskyy’s request for a joint session of Congress, as happened during the Ukrainian president’s dramatic visit to Washington last winter, saying there wasn’t time for that on short notice.But McCarthy called it a productive session.“It was direct, it was honest, they answered some of the questions,” McCarthy said. “I heard a lot of positive things.”Republican Rep. Mike Turner, the chairman of the House Select Intelligence Committee, said Zelenskyy “gave us details on the offensive that were very positive and his long-term goals and objectives. People in the room appreciated and supported it.”Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul said lawmakers had been looking for assurance that there was a clear strategy for victory.“War of attrition is not going to win this,” McCaul said. “That’s what Putin wants," he said, referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin. "He wants to break the will of the American people and the Europeans.”It is Zelenskyy's second visit to Washington since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia invaded Ukraine</a>&nbsp;in February 2022 and comes as Biden's request to Congress for an additional $24 billion for Ukraine’s military and humanitarian needs is hanging in the balance. Back home, Russian launched its heaviest strikes in a month in the hours before Zelenskyy’s arrival at Congress, killing three, igniting fires and damaging energy infrastructure as Russian missiles and artillery pounded cities across Ukraine.National Security Council spokesman John Kirby called the Ukrainian president “our best messenger” in persuading U.S. lawmakers to keep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-invasion-biden-congress-funding-d392f9b1adbb9c44249dce1cccdc2d1e">vital U.S. money</a>&nbsp;and weapons coming.“It’s really important for members of Congress to be able to hear directly from the president about what he's facing in this counteroffensive," Kirby told reporters Wednesday, "and how he’s achieving his goals, and what he needs to continue to achieve those goals."Biden has called on world leaders to stand strong with Ukraine, even as he faces domestic political divisions at home. A hard-right flank of Republicans, led by Trump, Biden’s chief rival in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">the 2024 race</a>&nbsp;for the White House, is increasingly opposed to sending more money overseas.Zelenskyy faces challenges in Europe as well as cracks emerge in what had been a largely united Western alliance behind Ukraine.Late Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poland-ukraine-weapons-russia-war-trade-dispute-5e2e7a194b5238b86c160f0f4848b4f3">Poland’s prime minister said his country is no longer sending arms</a>&nbsp;to Ukraine, a comment that appeared aimed at pressuring Kyiv and put Poland’s status as a major source of military equipment in doubt as a trade dispute between the neighboring states escalates.Zelenskyy’s visit comes with U.S. and world government leaders watching as Ukrainian forces struggle to take back territory that Russia gained over the past year. Their progress in the next month or so before the rains come and the ground turns to mud could be critical to rousing additional global support over the winter. Russian President Putin, who believes he can outlast allied backing for Kyiv, will be ready to capitalize if he sees Ukraine is running low on air defense or other weapons.Administration officials were set to announce another $325 million Thursday in what’s known as presidential drawdown assistance for Ukraine. The package will include dual-purpose improved conventional munitions, or&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-cluster-munition-war-7332fa86b3c52d1ea8d63f92a7d5c2cb">cluster munitions</a>, and ammunition for HIMARS rocket artillery systems, two U.S. officials said on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the weapons package prior to its announcement.Since the start of the war, most members of Congress supported approving four rounds of aid to Ukraine, totaling about $113 billion, viewing defense of the country and its democracy as an imperative, especially when it comes to containing Putin. Some of that money went toward replenishing U.S. military equipment sent to the frontlines.Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, who traveled to Kyiv this week, said cutting off U.S. aid during the Ukrainians’ counteroffensive would be “catastrophic” to their efforts.“That would clearly be the opening that Putin is looking for,” Kelly said Wednesday. “They cannot be successful without our support.”The political environment has shifted markedly since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-68c65b3274e552f36f16853f24fedbb9">Zelenskyy addressed Congress</a>&nbsp;last December on his first trip out of Ukraine since the war began. He was met with rapturous applause for his country’s bravery and surprisingly strong showing in the war.His meeting with senators on Thursday took place behind closed doors in the Old Senate Chamber, a historic and intimate place of importance at the U.S. Capitol, signifying the respect the Senate is showing the foreign leader.Zelenskyy received a warm welcome from both parties on his stop in the Senate. Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and Majority Leader Chuck Schumer flanked him as he walked in. A few lawmakers of both parties wore clothes with blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag.Rep. Steny Hoyer, Democrat of Maryland who attended the House meeting with Zelenskyy and lawmakers, said that McCarthy made no promises but that Republicans and Democrats were united in supporting Ukraine.“I think the message was not necessarily a promise but a determination to make sure that we could help Ukraine win this war for freedom and for all of us,” he said.___

Senator Marshall:  I will not support another cent going to Ukraine

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent armed robbery and made three arrests.

Just before 3a.m. September 3, police responded to a robbery in the 300 block of SE Lawrence Street in Topeka.&nbsp; Officers found two individuals who had been assaulted and robbed with a firearm. As a result of the investigation, detectives identified a suspect as Cristian Soto, 20, of Topeka.

Police found Soto on September 6, arrested and booked into jail on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/dangerous weapon, Aggravated battery; Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon and Theft.

As a result of this investigation, two additional suspects were identified as Darian J. Isley, 20, of Topeka, and Raul A. Retana Jr., 22, of Topeka. On Wednesday, police located both suspects and made arrests.

Darian J. Isley is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated assault; Use of deadly weapon, Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/dangerous weapon, Theft, Criminal possession of a weapon; convicted of person/drug felony; firearm used in crime and a Warrant.

Raul A. Retana is in jail on requested charges of Aggravated battery; Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon, Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/dangerous weapon and Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695297606240.png" alt="Soto-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Soto-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent armed robbery and made three arrests.Just before 3a.m. September 3, police responded to a robbery in the 300 block of SE Lawrence Street in Topeka.&nbsp; Officers found two individuals who had been assaulted and robbed with a firearm. As a result of the investigation, detectives identified a suspect as Cristian Soto, 20, of Topeka.Police found Soto on September 6, arrested and booked into jail on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/dangerous weapon, Aggravated battery; Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon and Theft.As a result of this investigation, two additional suspects were identified as Darian J. Isley, 20, of Topeka, and Raul A. Retana Jr., 22, of Topeka. On Wednesday, police located both suspects and made arrests.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695298004986.png" alt="Isley-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Isley-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Darian J. Isley is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated assault; Use of deadly weapon, Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/dangerous weapon, Theft, Criminal possession of a weapon; convicted of person/drug felony; firearm used in crime and a Warrant.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695297785444.png" alt="Retana-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Retana-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Raul A. Retana is in jail on requested charges of Aggravated battery; Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon, Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/dangerous weapon and Theft.

3 suspects in violent Kansas armed robbery captured

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Gen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joint-chiefs-chairman-brown-tuberville-military-42176ceb51300bdd11f7939db888d701">CQ Brown</a>&nbsp;as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, putting him in place to succeed Gen. Mark Milley when he retires at the end of the month.

Brown's confirmation on a 83-11 vote. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the nomination. Kansas junior Senator Roger Marshall along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt voted no.

Wednesday's vote came months after President Joe Biden nominated him for the post, comes as Democrats try to maneuver around&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tuberville-military-holds-senate-officers-45c4230a8aee5222bf32b43823e29acc">holds placed on hundreds of nominations</a>&nbsp;by Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville over the Pentagon's abortion policy. The Senate is also expected to confirm&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-chief-recruiting-shortfall-nomination-holds-2f1da426a54694eb333882fe7ec31571">Gen. Randy George</a>&nbsp;to be Army Chief of Staff and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marine-commandant-biden-nomination-iraq-afghanistan-8a1704122edc25c388aa33980ff6592a">Gen. Eric Smith</a>&nbsp;as commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps this week.

Tuberville has been blocking the Senate from the routine process of approving military nominations in groups, frustrating Democrats who had said they would not go through the time-consuming process of bringing up individual nominations for a vote. More than 300 nominees are still stalled amid Tuberville's blockade, and confirming them one-by-one would take months.

But Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., reversed course on Wednesday and moved to force votes on Brown, George and Smith.

“Senator Tuberville is forcing us to face his obstruction head on,” Schumer said. “I want to make clear to my Republican colleagues — this cannot continue.”

Tuberville did not object to the confirmation votes, saying he will maintain his holds but is fine with bringing up nominations individually for roll call votes.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Brown’s confirmation, along with expected votes on Smith and George, is positive news. But “we should have never been in this position,” he said.

“While good for these three officers, it doesn’t fix the problem or provide a path forward for the 316 other general and flag officers that are held up by this ridiculous hold,” Kirby told reporters.

Brown, a career fighter pilot, was the Air Force’s first Black commander of the Pacific Air Forces and most recently its first Black chief of staff, making him the first African American to lead any of the military branches. His confirmation will also mark the first time the Pentagon’s top two posts were held by African Americans, with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/lloyd-austin">Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin</a>&nbsp;as the top civilian leader.

In a statement late Wednesday, Austin said Brown would be a “tremendous leader" as the new chairman.

Brown, 60, replaces Joint Chiefs Chairman Army Gen. Mark Milley, who is retiring after four decades in military service. Milley's four-year term as chairman ends on Sept. 30.

Tuberville said on Wednesday that he will continue to hold up the other nominations unless the Pentagon ends its policy of paying for travel when a service member has to go out of state to get an abortion or other reproductive care. The Biden administration instituted the policy after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide right to an abortion and some states have limited or banned the procedure.

“Let’s do one at a time or change the policy back,” Tuberville said after Schumer put the three nominations up for a vote. “Let’s vote on it.”

In an effort to force Tuberville’s hand, Democrats had said they would not bring up the most senior nominees while the others were still stalled. “There’s an old saying in the military, leave no one behind,” Senate Armed Services Chairman Jack Reed said in July.

But in a frustrated speech on the Senate floor, Schumer said Wednesday he was left with no other choice.

“Senator Tuberville is using them as pawns,” Schumer said of the nominees.

The votes come as a host of military officers have spoken out about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tuberville-holds-military-nominations-664c15d00d330b2b06b75ebeda8e3f01">damage of the delays</a>&nbsp;for service members. While Tuberville's holds are focused on all general and flag officers, they carry career impacts on the military’s younger rising officers. Until each general or admiral is confirmed, it blocks an opportunity for a more junior officer to rise.

That affects pay, retirement, lifestyle and future assignments — and in some fields where the private sector will pay more, it becomes harder to convince those highly trained young leaders to stay.

“Senator Tuberville’s continued hold on hundreds of our nation’s military leaders endangers our national security and military readiness. It is well past time to confirm the over 300 other military nominees,” Austin said, noting he would "continue to personally engage with members of Congress in both parties until all of these well-qualified, apolitical officers are confirmed.”

Tuberville said he has not talked to Austin since July about the holds.

The blockade has frustrated members on both sides of the aisle, and it is still unclear how the larger standoff will be resolved. Schumer did not say if he will put additional nominations on the floor.

The monthslong holds have devolved into a convoluted procedural back and forth in recent days.

Tuberville claimed victory after Schumer’s move, even though the Pentagon policy remains unchanged.

“We called them out, and they blinked,” he told reporters of Schumer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695305939334.png" alt="President Biden nominated General Brown in May- White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Biden nominated General Brown in May- White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Gen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joint-chiefs-chairman-brown-tuberville-military-42176ceb51300bdd11f7939db888d701">CQ Brown</a>&nbsp;as the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, putting him in place to succeed Gen. Mark Milley when he retires at the end of the month.Brown's confirmation on a 83-11 vote. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran voted in favor of the nomination. Kansas junior Senator Roger Marshall along with Missouri Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt voted no.Wednesday's vote came months after President Joe Biden nominated him for the post, comes as Democrats try to maneuver around&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tuberville-military-holds-senate-officers-45c4230a8aee5222bf32b43823e29acc">holds placed on hundreds of nominations</a>&nbsp;by Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville over the Pentagon's abortion policy. The Senate is also expected to confirm&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-chief-recruiting-shortfall-nomination-holds-2f1da426a54694eb333882fe7ec31571">Gen. Randy George</a>&nbsp;to be Army Chief of Staff and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marine-commandant-biden-nomination-iraq-afghanistan-8a1704122edc25c388aa33980ff6592a">Gen. Eric Smith</a>&nbsp;as commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps this week.Tuberville has been blocking the Senate from the routine process of approving military nominations in groups, frustrating Democrats who had said they would not go through the time-consuming process of bringing up individual nominations for a vote. More than 300 nominees are still stalled amid Tuberville's blockade, and confirming them one-by-one would take months.But Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., reversed course on Wednesday and moved to force votes on Brown, George and Smith.“Senator Tuberville is forcing us to face his obstruction head on,” Schumer said. “I want to make clear to my Republican colleagues — this cannot continue.”Tuberville did not object to the confirmation votes, saying he will maintain his holds but is fine with bringing up nominations individually for roll call votes.White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that Brown’s confirmation, along with expected votes on Smith and George, is positive news. But “we should have never been in this position,” he said.“While good for these three officers, it doesn’t fix the problem or provide a path forward for the 316 other general and flag officers that are held up by this ridiculous hold,” Kirby told reporters.Brown, a career fighter pilot, was the Air Force’s first Black commander of the Pacific Air Forces and most recently its first Black chief of staff, making him the first African American to lead any of the military branches. His confirmation will also mark the first time the Pentagon’s top two posts were held by African Americans, with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/lloyd-austin">Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin</a>&nbsp;as the top civilian leader.In a statement late Wednesday, Austin said Brown would be a “tremendous leader" as the new chairman.Brown, 60, replaces Joint Chiefs Chairman Army Gen. Mark Milley, who is retiring after four decades in military service. Milley's four-year term as chairman ends on Sept. 30.Tuberville said on Wednesday that he will continue to hold up the other nominations unless the Pentagon ends its policy of paying for travel when a service member has to go out of state to get an abortion or other reproductive care. The Biden administration instituted the policy after the Supreme Court overturned the nationwide right to an abortion and some states have limited or banned the procedure.“Let’s do one at a time or change the policy back,” Tuberville said after Schumer put the three nominations up for a vote. “Let’s vote on it.”In an effort to force Tuberville’s hand, Democrats had said they would not bring up the most senior nominees while the others were still stalled. “There’s an old saying in the military, leave no one behind,” Senate Armed Services Chairman Jack Reed said in July.But in a frustrated speech on the Senate floor, Schumer said Wednesday he was left with no other choice.“Senator Tuberville is using them as pawns,” Schumer said of the nominees.The votes come as a host of military officers have spoken out about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tuberville-holds-military-nominations-664c15d00d330b2b06b75ebeda8e3f01">damage of the delays</a>&nbsp;for service members. While Tuberville's holds are focused on all general and flag officers, they carry career impacts on the military’s younger rising officers. Until each general or admiral is confirmed, it blocks an opportunity for a more junior officer to rise.That affects pay, retirement, lifestyle and future assignments — and in some fields where the private sector will pay more, it becomes harder to convince those highly trained young leaders to stay.“Senator Tuberville’s continued hold on hundreds of our nation’s military leaders endangers our national security and military readiness. It is well past time to confirm the over 300 other military nominees,” Austin said, noting he would "continue to personally engage with members of Congress in both parties until all of these well-qualified, apolitical officers are confirmed.”Tuberville said he has not talked to Austin since July about the holds.The blockade has frustrated members on both sides of the aisle, and it is still unclear how the larger standoff will be resolved. Schumer did not say if he will put additional nominations on the floor.The monthslong holds have devolved into a convoluted procedural back and forth in recent days.Tuberville claimed victory after Schumer’s move, even though the Pentagon policy remains unchanged.“We called them out, and they blinked,” he told reporters of Schumer.

Mo. U.S. Senators vote against confirmation of next Joint Chiefs chairman

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A woman walking her dog on a wooded trail in Colorado's Rocky Mountains spooked a cow moose Wednesday and it charged, headbutting the hiker and stomping on her before she escaped back down the trail, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Authorities said the woman was taken to a hospital but they declined to provide information on the woman's injuries or condition. They said the moose had stomped on her “several times” and that the dog had minor injuries.

The moose attack occurred just west of Boulder and was the third in Boulder County this year, said Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. She added fatal encounters are rare.

Van Hoose said the animals are often aggressive with dogs, which they perceive as a threat. They also become more aggressive during mating season — called the rut — which is just beginning in Colorado.

“If a moose thinks a dog is a threat it’s going to react to it, and that’s normal for a moose," she said.

Wildlife officers couldn’t find the moose, but posted signs warning hikers of the potentially aggressive animal. It will likely be difficult to find the exact moose that attacked without DNA, said Van Hoose.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife warned hikers to keep their pets leashed and be on the lookout for the animals, especially near water or in willow trees. If a moose is spotted, officials said, people should keep their distance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695302009591.png" alt="Photo Colorado Parks and Wildlife" />
 <figcaption>Photo Colorado Parks and Wildlife</figcaption>
 </figure>BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — A woman walking her dog on a wooded trail in Colorado's Rocky Mountains spooked a cow moose Wednesday and it charged, headbutting the hiker and stomping on her before she escaped back down the trail, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.Authorities said the woman was taken to a hospital but they declined to provide information on the woman's injuries or condition. They said the moose had stomped on her “several times” and that the dog had minor injuries.The moose attack occurred just west of Boulder and was the third in Boulder County this year, said Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. She added fatal encounters are rare.Van Hoose said the animals are often aggressive with dogs, which they perceive as a threat. They also become more aggressive during mating season — called the rut — which is just beginning in Colorado.“If a moose thinks a dog is a threat it’s going to react to it, and that’s normal for a moose," she said.Wildlife officers couldn’t find the moose, but posted signs warning hikers of the potentially aggressive animal. It will likely be difficult to find the exact moose that attacked without DNA, said Van Hoose.Colorado Parks and Wildlife warned hikers to keep their pets leashed and be on the lookout for the animals, especially near water or in willow trees. If a moose is spotted, officials said, people should keep their distance.___

Woman attacked by moose while walking her dog in Colorado

NEW YORK (AP) — Rupert Murdoch, the 92-year-old media magnate who created Fox News, is stepping down as leader of both Fox's parent company and his News Corp. media holdings.

Fox said Thursday that Murdoch would become chairman emeritus of both companies. His son, Lachlan, will become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-election-lawsuit-new-york-oregon-c77a0630afca5de243a96265c5815b33">News Corp.</a>&nbsp;chairman and continue as chief executive officer of Fox Corp.

Lachlan Murdoch said that “we are grateful that he will serve as chairman emeritus and know he will continue to provide valued counsel to both companies.”

Besides Fox News, Murdoch started the Fox broadcast network, the first to successfully challenge the Big Three of ABC, CBS and NBC. He is owner of the Wall Street Journal and the New York Post.

Murdoch is a force in the conservative world, where Fox News Channel has profoundly influenced television and the nation's politics since its start in 1996.

Murdoch vowed in a letter to employees that he would remain engaged at Fox.

“In my new role, I can guarantee you that I will be involved every day in the contest of ideas, Murdoch wrote. “Our companies are communities, and I will be an active member of our community. I will be watching our broadcasts with a critical eye, reading our newspapers and websites and books with much interest.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695303516372.png" alt="Rupert Murdoch during a 2017 appearance in New York -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Rupert Murdoch during a 2017 appearance in New York -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Rupert Murdoch, the 92-year-old media magnate who created Fox News, is stepping down as leader of both Fox's parent company and his News Corp. media holdings.Fox said Thursday that Murdoch would become chairman emeritus of both companies. His son, Lachlan, will become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-election-lawsuit-new-york-oregon-c77a0630afca5de243a96265c5815b33">News Corp.</a>&nbsp;chairman and continue as chief executive officer of Fox Corp.Lachlan Murdoch said that “we are grateful that he will serve as chairman emeritus and know he will continue to provide valued counsel to both companies.”Besides Fox News, Murdoch started the Fox broadcast network, the first to successfully challenge the Big Three of ABC, CBS and NBC. He is owner of the Wall Street Journal and the New York Post.Murdoch is a force in the conservative world, where Fox News Channel has profoundly influenced television and the nation's politics since its start in 1996.Murdoch vowed in a letter to employees that he would remain engaged at Fox.“In my new role, I can guarantee you that I will be involved every day in the contest of ideas, Murdoch wrote. “Our companies are communities, and I will be an active member of our community. I will be watching our broadcasts with a critical eye, reading our newspapers and websites and books with much interest.”

Rupert Murdoch steps down as chairman of Fox and News Corp

Mann, Estes earn F grade for voting record on Ukraine’s war with Russia

BY: TIM CARPENTER,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The organization Republicans for Ukraine issued a report card giving U.S. Reps. Tracey Mann and Ron Estes of Kansas failing grades based primarily on their voting record in Congress tied to sustaining U.S. military, economic and humanitarian support of Ukraine’s war against Russia.

The GOP advocacy group, which is part of Defending Democracy Together, based the evaluation on six factors that included votes on legislation supporting or limiting aid to Ukraine as well as public statements regarding the invasion by Russia. The grade-card message has been reinforced with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/S3-MPwk2CVA">national advertising &nbsp;</a>on Fox News and other platforms and is to be highlighted in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/NLZowlIIrkw">30-second ad&nbsp;</a>during the Republican presidential debate Sept. 27 on Fox Business.

“For just 5% of our annual defense budget, America has helped Ukraine destroy half of Russia’s army and liberate its territory and people. That’s a great return on investment for American national security,” said Gunner Ramer, spokesman for Republicans for Ukraine.

The organization graded only Republicans in the House in terms of their view on funding of the U.S. ally and Eastern European democracy. Republicans for Ukraine doled out 82 A’s, 43 B’s, eight C’s, 17 D’s and 72 F’s.

The lobbying effort coincided with debate in the Republican-led U.S. House on legislation tied to a potential federal government shutdown and a request from President Joe Biden for a $24 billion supplemental aid package to Ukraine. Polling has revealed erosion in support for Ukraine among Republican voters, which has resonated with the chamber’s most conservative members.

Estes and Mann both voted for the initial 2022 bipartisan bill authorizing the U.S. government to provide defense material to Ukraine through a $13.6 billion lend-lease program. Months later, the two GOP House members voted against a $40 billion supplemental aid bill that was approved.

Both of the Kansas lawmakers voted for a House amendment that would have stricken from a bill $300 million in U.S. funding for Ukraine. They voted with their Kansas colleagues against a failed amendment blocking all security assistance to Ukraine, but Mann embraced an unsuccessful amendment preventing extension of the lend-lease initiative.

While Mann and Estes received an F grade for their “very poor” support of Ukraine, the other House Republican from Kansas, Jake LaTurner, earned a B- grade. LaTurner voted for the initial and supplemental funding bills in 2022 and against House amendments designed to curtail aid to Ukraine.

In July, Mann defended his vote for House amendments that would have restricted “unconditional spending to&nbsp;Ukraine”&nbsp;and would have increased oversight of funding devoted to the war. He represents the 1st District stretching from the Colorado border to Lawrence in eastern Kansas.

Estes, of the 4th District centered on Wichita, denounced the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and referred to the military incursion as an “unprovoked and unjust attack on their sovereignty.” Estes also supported economic sanctions against Russia and commended Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

“Former KGB officer and tyrant Vladimir Putin is disrupting stability in the world for his personal gain without regard to loss of life or even the will of his own people. There must be consequences for such a reckless and dangerous action,” Estes said at that time.

LaTurner, the 2nd District congressman who received the B- grade, responded to the invasion by traveling to the Ukraine border in March 2022. He affirmed support for NATO and Ukraine while condemning the unlawful invasion by Putin.

“The world needs a strong, sturdy and determined America as much as ever before,” LaTurner said at that time. “The United States and our allies must continue to be very clear in our message to the rest of the world: Vladimir Putin is a war criminal and must be held accountable for his unprovoked and evil attack on&nbsp;Ukraine.”

LaTurner said on the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion that he was concerned the Biden administration was neglecting domestic priorities while concentrating on the Ukraine-Russia war.

“We can’t care more about&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;than we do our own country,” he said. “The White House continues to prioritize&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;while leaving American communities behind. It’s unacceptable.”

The U.S. Congress has approved $43 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since outset of Russia’s invasion of the country.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695299753196.png" alt=" U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, the 1st District Republican, received an F grade in terms of his votes and statements related to Ukraine's defense against the Russia invasion. A GOP advocacy organization is lobbying Mann and U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, also a Kansas Republican, to support a new round of U.S. aid to Ukraine. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann, the 1st District Republican, received an F grade in terms of his votes and statements related to Ukraine's defense against the Russia invasion. A GOP advocacy organization is lobbying Mann and U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, also a Kansas Republican, to support a new round of U.S. aid to Ukraine. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Mann, Estes earn F grade for voting record on Ukraine’s war with Russia</h2>BY: TIM CARPENTER,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The organization Republicans for Ukraine issued a report card giving U.S. Reps. Tracey Mann and Ron Estes of Kansas failing grades based primarily on their voting record in Congress tied to sustaining U.S. military, economic and humanitarian support of Ukraine’s war against Russia.The GOP advocacy group, which is part of Defending Democracy Together, based the evaluation on six factors that included votes on legislation supporting or limiting aid to Ukraine as well as public statements regarding the invasion by Russia. The grade-card message has been reinforced with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/S3-MPwk2CVA">national advertising &nbsp;</a>on Fox News and other platforms and is to be highlighted in a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/NLZowlIIrkw">30-second ad&nbsp;</a>during the Republican presidential debate Sept. 27 on Fox Business.“For just 5% of our annual defense budget, America has helped Ukraine destroy half of Russia’s army and liberate its territory and people. That’s a great return on investment for American national security,” said Gunner Ramer, spokesman for Republicans for Ukraine.The organization graded only Republicans in the House in terms of their view on funding of the U.S. ally and Eastern European democracy. Republicans for Ukraine doled out 82 A’s, 43 B’s, eight C’s, 17 D’s and 72 F’s.The lobbying effort coincided with debate in the Republican-led U.S. House on legislation tied to a potential federal government shutdown and a request from President Joe Biden for a $24 billion supplemental aid package to Ukraine. Polling has revealed erosion in support for Ukraine among Republican voters, which has resonated with the chamber’s most conservative members.Estes and Mann both voted for the initial 2022 bipartisan bill authorizing the U.S. government to provide defense material to Ukraine through a $13.6 billion lend-lease program. Months later, the two GOP House members voted against a $40 billion supplemental aid bill that was approved.Both of the Kansas lawmakers voted for a House amendment that would have stricken from a bill $300 million in U.S. funding for Ukraine. They voted with their Kansas colleagues against a failed amendment blocking all security assistance to Ukraine, but Mann embraced an unsuccessful amendment preventing extension of the lend-lease initiative.While Mann and Estes received an F grade for their “very poor” support of Ukraine, the other House Republican from Kansas, Jake LaTurner, earned a B- grade. LaTurner voted for the initial and supplemental funding bills in 2022 and against House amendments designed to curtail aid to Ukraine.In July, Mann defended his vote for House amendments that would have restricted “unconditional spending to&nbsp;Ukraine”&nbsp;and would have increased oversight of funding devoted to the war. He represents the 1st District stretching from the Colorado border to Lawrence in eastern Kansas.Estes, of the 4th District centered on Wichita, denounced the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and referred to the military incursion as an “unprovoked and unjust attack on their sovereignty.” Estes also supported economic sanctions against Russia and commended Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.“Former KGB officer and tyrant Vladimir Putin is disrupting stability in the world for his personal gain without regard to loss of life or even the will of his own people. There must be consequences for such a reckless and dangerous action,” Estes said at that time.LaTurner, the 2nd District congressman who received the B- grade, responded to the invasion by traveling to the Ukraine border in March 2022. He affirmed support for NATO and Ukraine while condemning the unlawful invasion by Putin.“The world needs a strong, sturdy and determined America as much as ever before,” LaTurner said at that time. “The United States and our allies must continue to be very clear in our message to the rest of the world: Vladimir Putin is a war criminal and must be held accountable for his unprovoked and evil attack on&nbsp;Ukraine.”LaTurner said on the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion that he was concerned the Biden administration was neglecting domestic priorities while concentrating on the Ukraine-Russia war.“We can’t care more about&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;than we do our own country,” he said. “The White House continues to prioritize&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;while leaving American communities behind. It’s unacceptable.”The U.S. Congress has approved $43 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since outset of Russia’s invasion of the country.

Advocacy group pressures Kan. reps to support new Ukrainian aid package

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide that took place in the 4700 Block of Parallel Parkway.

Just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a disturbance at O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, according to a media release.

Dispatch advised officers that two adult men entered the store and began shoplifting. A physical altercation ensued between the shoplifters and employees outside of the store that resulted in one of the shoplifters being killed. 

Once officers arrived on scene they performed CPR but the victim was already decease on scene. The other shoplifter had minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment and was reported in stable condition.

All employees involved in the physical altercation were taken into police custody.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the man who died or additional details.

First responders located a man outside of the store. Officers quickly recognized that he was unresponsive and performed CPR. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. 

There was another man on the scene who had minor injuries. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment and was reported in stable condition.

Police took a suspect into custody. This death is being handled as a homicide and is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695205267512.png" alt="Anyone with information on the crime is encouraged to contact KCK Police-photo courtesy KMBC TV" />
 <figcaption>Anyone with information on the crime is encouraged to contact KCK Police-photo courtesy KMBC TV</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide that took place in the 4700 Block of Parallel Parkway.Just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a disturbance at O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, according to a media release.Dispatch advised officers that two adult men entered the store and began shoplifting. A physical altercation ensued between the shoplifters and employees outside of the store that resulted in one of the shoplifters being killed. Once officers arrived on scene they performed CPR but the victim was already decease on scene. The other shoplifter had minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment and was reported in stable condition.All employees involved in the physical altercation were taken into police custody.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the man who died or additional details.-------WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide that took place in the 4700 Block of Parallel Parkway.Just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a disturbance at O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, according to a media release.First responders located a man outside of the store. Officers quickly recognized that he was unresponsive and performed CPR. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. There was another man on the scene who had minor injuries. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment and was reported in stable condition.Police took a suspect into custody. This death is being handled as a homicide and is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.

Police: Man killed at Kansas auto parts store was shoplifter

WINFIELD&nbsp;– On Wednesday, outside William Newton Hospital, Governor Laura Kelly launched her “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour to rally Kansans statewide in support of her top priority this upcoming legislative session, Medicaid Expansion. Throughout the fall, Governor Kelly will travel across the state to share how expanding access to health insurance will reduce costs for every Kansan, preserve and strengthen rural health care, and make Kansas more economically competitive.&nbsp;

Governor Kelly has long been a supporter of Medicaid Expansion. This is her first statewide tour to encourage the 78% of Kansans who support expansion to pressure state lawmakers to force the issue to a vote in the spring.&nbsp;

“Expanding Medicaid and ensuring that every Kansan has access to affordable, high-quality health care is the smartest, sanest way to keep our state moving forward,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“When the legislature reconvenes in January, I will propose Medicaid expansion for the sixth time so Kansas can achieve a healthier workforce and a healthier economy. I encourage every Kansan to call their legislator and tell them to demand that legislative leadership give them a chance to vote for Medicaid expansion.”&nbsp;

7 rural hospitals in Kansans have closed since states have had the option to expand Medicaid, and 60 out of Kansas’ 104 remaining rural hospitals are at risk of shutting their doors — a higher percentage than any other state in the country. To emphasize that risk, Governor Kelly made the announcement at William Newton Hospital in Winfield, one of the small rural hospitals that would benefit from Medicaid Expansion. She was joined by William Newton Hospital CEO Brian Barta.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Kansas is one of ten states that continues to lag behind the rest of our country to expand Medicaid and address healthcare inequity for many hardworking Kansans. We greatly appreciate Governor Kelly’s persistence and dedication to move Kansas toward passing commonsense legislation to utilize federal funding that will cover 90% of the cost to expand Medicaid,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Brian Barta, CEO of William Newton Hospital.&nbsp;“It is estimated that Medicaid expansion will help over 150,000 Kansans and continued failure by the state legislature to support Medicaid expansion undermines the physical, emotional, and economic health for all of Kansas.”&nbsp;

Census data shows that nearly 140,000 Kansans work but don’t have health insurance. To illustrate how a lack of health coverage impacts the Kansas workforce, Governor Kelly was also joined by Chandra Dickson, a Wichita resident whose mother, Jo Anne, passed away in 2016. Working as a waitress and doing other jobs to make ends meet, Jo Anne made slightly too much to qualify for KanCare, the program Kansas uses to administer Medicaid. Without health insurance, she delayed getting treatment for her cancer until it was too late. She would have been one of the Kansans who benefited from Medicaid Expansion.&nbsp;

“Watching my mother be unable to access health care and then ultimately die because of lack of access to lifesaving treatment was one of the most painful experiences of my life. It wasn't fair to her or my family,”&nbsp;Chandra Dickson said.&nbsp;“I want to see Medicaid Expansion in Kansas because everyone should have access to health care no matter their life circumstances or ability to pay. Expanding Medicaid is the right thing to do for the state and its citizens.”&nbsp;

Expanding Medicaid would also have a positive effect on Kansas’ economy, creating 23,000 new jobs and creating a healthier workforce. Governor Kelly was joined by Alex Gottlob, a small business owner with several employees who fall into the current KanCare coverage gap.&nbsp;

“As an employer of both full time and seasonal employees, my wife and I see first-hand the challenges related to health care that our employees face and how it oftentimes affects their performance at work,”&nbsp;said Alex Gottlob, Owner of Gottlob Lawn &amp; Landscape.&nbsp;“Insurance costs grow more and more out of reach for small companies such as ours. Medicaid Expansion would not only benefit individuals but has the ability to bridge the gap when small businesses are not able to provide insurance.”&nbsp;

By law, 90% of the costs to expand Medicaid would be funded by the federal government with the state providing 10% of funds to match. Kansas has left more than $6.5 billion federal dollars on the table while waiting for Medicaid Expansion, including nearly $80 million so far in 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695237266389.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WINFIELD&nbsp;– On Wednesday, outside William Newton Hospital, Governor Laura Kelly launched her “Healthy Workers, Healthy Economy” tour to rally Kansans statewide in support of her top priority this upcoming legislative session, Medicaid Expansion. Throughout the fall, Governor Kelly will travel across the state to share how expanding access to health insurance will reduce costs for every Kansan, preserve and strengthen rural health care, and make Kansas more economically competitive.&nbsp;Governor Kelly has long been a supporter of Medicaid Expansion. This is her first statewide tour to encourage the 78% of Kansans who support expansion to pressure state lawmakers to force the issue to a vote in the spring.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695237358941.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Expanding Medicaid and ensuring that every Kansan has access to affordable, high-quality health care is the smartest, sanest way to keep our state moving forward,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“When the legislature reconvenes in January, I will propose Medicaid expansion for the sixth time so Kansas can achieve a healthier workforce and a healthier economy. I encourage every Kansan to call their legislator and tell them to demand that legislative leadership give them a chance to vote for Medicaid expansion.”&nbsp;7 rural hospitals in Kansans have closed since states have had the option to expand Medicaid, and 60 out of Kansas’ 104 remaining rural hospitals are at risk of shutting their doors — a higher percentage than any other state in the country. To emphasize that risk, Governor Kelly made the announcement at William Newton Hospital in Winfield, one of the small rural hospitals that would benefit from Medicaid Expansion. She was joined by William Newton Hospital CEO Brian Barta.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Kansas is one of ten states that continues to lag behind the rest of our country to expand Medicaid and address healthcare inequity for many hardworking Kansans. We greatly appreciate Governor Kelly’s persistence and dedication to move Kansas toward passing commonsense legislation to utilize federal funding that will cover 90% of the cost to expand Medicaid,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Brian Barta, CEO of William Newton Hospital.&nbsp;“It is estimated that Medicaid expansion will help over 150,000 Kansans and continued failure by the state legislature to support Medicaid expansion undermines the physical, emotional, and economic health for all of Kansas.”&nbsp;Census data shows that nearly 140,000 Kansans work but don’t have health insurance. To illustrate how a lack of health coverage impacts the Kansas workforce, Governor Kelly was also joined by Chandra Dickson, a Wichita resident whose mother, Jo Anne, passed away in 2016. Working as a waitress and doing other jobs to make ends meet, Jo Anne made slightly too much to qualify for KanCare, the program Kansas uses to administer Medicaid. Without health insurance, she delayed getting treatment for her cancer until it was too late. She would have been one of the Kansans who benefited from Medicaid Expansion.&nbsp;“Watching my mother be unable to access health care and then ultimately die because of lack of access to lifesaving treatment was one of the most painful experiences of my life. It wasn't fair to her or my family,”&nbsp;Chandra Dickson said.&nbsp;“I want to see Medicaid Expansion in Kansas because everyone should have access to health care no matter their life circumstances or ability to pay. Expanding Medicaid is the right thing to do for the state and its citizens.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695237358941.png" alt="Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>Expanding Medicaid would also have a positive effect on Kansas’ economy, creating 23,000 new jobs and creating a healthier workforce. Governor Kelly was joined by Alex Gottlob, a small business owner with several employees who fall into the current KanCare coverage gap.&nbsp;“As an employer of both full time and seasonal employees, my wife and I see first-hand the challenges related to health care that our employees face and how it oftentimes affects their performance at work,”&nbsp;said Alex Gottlob, Owner of Gottlob Lawn &amp; Landscape.&nbsp;“Insurance costs grow more and more out of reach for small companies such as ours. Medicaid Expansion would not only benefit individuals but has the ability to bridge the gap when small businesses are not able to provide insurance.”&nbsp;By law, 90% of the costs to expand Medicaid would be funded by the federal government with the state providing 10% of funds to match. Kansas has left more than $6.5 billion federal dollars on the table while waiting for Medicaid Expansion, including nearly $80 million so far in 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gov. launches tour to rally Kansans for Medicaid expansion 

NEW YORK (AP) — President Joe Biden raised “hard issues,” including protecting the “checks and balances” in a democracy, in a Wednesday meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pushing the Israeli leader to find a compromise on a judicial overhaul that has set off months of mass protests in Israel and concerns in Washington.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/09/20/readout-of-president-joe-bidens-meeting-with-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-of-israel/">Click here to</a> view the White House readout of the meeting

Biden also raised concerns about the far-right Israeli government's treatment of the Palestinians, urging Netanyahu to take steps to improve conditions in the West Bank at a time of heightened violence in the occupied territory.

The two leaders sat down and took time to chat one-on-one on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly. It was their first meeting since Netanyahu took office at the helm of his country’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-protests-judiciary-overhaul-netanyahu-tel-aviv-8369021c593bafbe7abe84c8aee6bba8">far-right government</a>&nbsp;late last year.

Relations have cooled since Netanyahu returned to office with a coalition of ultra-Orthodox and ultranationalist partners. His new government has stepped up construction in West Bank settlements, angering the U.S., and pressed ahead with its contentious judicial overhaul plan despite deep divisions at home and criticism from the U.S. and other allies.

Netanyahu tried to play down concerns about the plan, saying there is “one thing that will never change and that is Israel's commitment to democracy."

Biden opened the meeting by stressing the U.S. friendship with Israel as being “ironclad” and saying that “without Israel, there’s not a Jew in the world who is secure. Israel is essential.” But Biden also acknowledged the tensions with Netanyahu’s government and its policies.

“We’re going to discuss some of the hard issues, that is upholding democratic values that lie at the heart of our partnership, including the checks and balances in our systems,” Biden said. He said they would also talk about a path to a negotiated two-state solution with Palestinians and “ensuring that Iran never, never acquires a nuclear weapon.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695242635278.png" alt="Biden: We discussed several issues, from the progress we have made on integration efforts to the viability of a two-state solution, upholding our democratic values, and countering Iran.- White House photo" />
 <figcaption>Biden: We discussed several issues, from the progress we have made on integration efforts to the viability of a two-state solution, upholding our democratic values, and countering Iran.- White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — President Joe Biden raised “hard issues,” including protecting the “checks and balances” in a democracy, in a Wednesday meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pushing the Israeli leader to find a compromise on a judicial overhaul that has set off months of mass protests in Israel and concerns in Washington.<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/09/20/readout-of-president-joe-bidens-meeting-with-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-of-israel/">Click here to</a> view the White House readout of the meetingBiden also raised concerns about the far-right Israeli government's treatment of the Palestinians, urging Netanyahu to take steps to improve conditions in the West Bank at a time of heightened violence in the occupied territory.The two leaders sat down and took time to chat one-on-one on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly. It was their first meeting since Netanyahu took office at the helm of his country’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-protests-judiciary-overhaul-netanyahu-tel-aviv-8369021c593bafbe7abe84c8aee6bba8">far-right government</a>&nbsp;late last year.Relations have cooled since Netanyahu returned to office with a coalition of ultra-Orthodox and ultranationalist partners. His new government has stepped up construction in West Bank settlements, angering the U.S., and pressed ahead with its contentious judicial overhaul plan despite deep divisions at home and criticism from the U.S. and other allies.Netanyahu tried to play down concerns about the plan, saying there is “one thing that will never change and that is Israel's commitment to democracy."Biden opened the meeting by stressing the U.S. friendship with Israel as being “ironclad” and saying that “without Israel, there’s not a Jew in the world who is secure. Israel is essential.” But Biden also acknowledged the tensions with Netanyahu’s government and its policies.“We’re going to discuss some of the hard issues, that is upholding democratic values that lie at the heart of our partnership, including the checks and balances in our systems,” Biden said. He said they would also talk about a path to a negotiated two-state solution with Palestinians and “ensuring that Iran never, never acquires a nuclear weapon.”A senior Biden administration official said Biden pushed Netanyahu to find a compromise on his planned changes to the Israeli court system. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private meeting, did not want to characterize Netanyahu's reaction to what Biden said, only that the Israeli leader understood the need for a compromise.Israeli media, citing a senior official, said Netanyahu assured Biden he was seeking a compromise. However, Netanyahu has made similar pledges in recent months while pushing ahead with the plan, drawing accusations from his opponents that he is not negotiating in good faith. His coalition pushed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/netanyahu-israel-hospital-judicial-overhaul-protests-closures-fb595629e7033ee34d246ee9a367c4d4">the first major piece of the legislation</a>&nbsp;through parliament in July.A statement by Netanyahu's office said the meeting with Biden was primarily about brokering a peace agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;The prospect of an agreement was also raised by Saudi Crown Prince&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-dubai-united-arab-emirates-saudi-arabia-jamal-khashoggi-aba648586c12cf5438836252408b6a76">Mohammed bin Salman</a>, who said in an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6337512022112">interview with Fox News</a>&nbsp;being aired Wednesday that the two countries are getting closer to normalizing relations. But Saudi Arabia's de facto leader also said it was “very important” to reach a pact on the treatment of Palestinians as part of any agreement.“We got to see where we go,” he said. “We hope that will reach a place, that it will ease the life of the Palestinians, get Israel as a player in the Middle East.”The location of Biden and Netanyahu's long-anticipated meeting — a New York hotel room on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly meetings rather than the grandeur of the Oval Office — has been widely interpreted in Israel as a sign of U.S. displeasure with Netanyahu’s new government.Netanyahu has been a frequent White House visitor over the years, and Israeli leaders are typically invited within weeks of starting their tenure to the Oval Office. But his judicial proposals have raised concerns within Israel as well as the U.S. about his commitment to a democratic system.Bien held out the possibility of the coveted Oval Office meeting, saying, “I hope we’ll see each other in Washington by the end of the year.” The U.S. later formally invited Netanyahu to the White House, eyeing a meeting in November or December.Biden himself has repeatedly raised concerns about Netanyahu’s plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-netanyahu-court-overhaul-judicial-8a20142f39006e9489e58411c39671fb">overhaul Israel’s judicial system</a>.Netanyahu says the country’s unelected judges wield too much power over government decision-making. His plan seeks to give more authority to the ruling coalition in parliament, which he heads. Critics say that by weakening the independent judiciary, Netanyahu is pushing Israel toward authoritarian rule.The plan has divided the nation and led to months of mass protests against his government. Those demonstrations followed him to the United States, with large numbers of Israeli expatriates waving the country's flag in protest Wednesday in New York. Hundreds of Israelis also protested outside the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv on Wednesday.Early this year, Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-united-states-biden-netanyahu-judicial-overhaul-5d53ba11bfd5ebe0d2e2e668ad2ee5f1">voiced his unhappiness</a>&nbsp;over the judicial overhaul, saying Netanyahu “cannot continue down this road” and urging the Israeli leader to find a compromise.The Israeli government’s treatment of the Palestinians has also drawn American ire. Netanyahu’s coalition is dominated by far-right ultranationalists who have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinians-israel-occupation-west-bank-smotrich-netanyahu-e262d0bca6a637d217852ea238ab45b2">greatly expanded Israeli settlement construction</a>&nbsp;on occupied lands claimed by the Palestinians for a future state. Israel’s government also opposes a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians — a cornerstone of White House policy in the region. The deadlock has coincided with a spike in fighting in the West Bank.According to a White House summary of the talks, Biden stressed the “need to take immediate measures to improve the security and economic situation” in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-killed-gaza-west-bank-0454cf65390d6d8c27ddb55d51a083c4">West Bank</a>, where violence between Israelis and Palestinians over the past 18 months has intensified to its worst levels in roughly two decades. The two leaders also reaffirmed their intention to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.The Biden-Netanyahu meeting came at a time of cooling ties between Israel and the Democratic Party. A poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that while Americans generally view Israel as a partner or ally, many are questioning whether Netanyahu’s government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-israel-united-states-biden-netanyahu-41ba5cb189185f3e4956f4465c00999f">shares American values</a>. Republicans were significantly more likely than Democrats to call Israel an ally with shared values.Topping Netanyahu’s wish list were discussions on U.S. efforts to broker a deal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-saudi-arabia-normalization-jake-sullivan-mbs-peace-deal-377e3c1e4b4732124b565ed968c5f0c8">establishing full diplomatic relations</a>&nbsp;between Israel and Saudi Arabia. The White House statement said Biden and Netanyahu discussed the shipping and rail corridor announced at the Group of 20 summit that would connect Israel with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan.Netanyahu, who also led Israel when President Donald Trump brokered the “Abraham Accords” between Israel and four Arab countries, said a similar deal with Saudi Arabia would “go a long way” to promoting Israel's relations with the broader Arab and Muslim world and help advance “a genuine peace” with the Palestinians.The White House has acknowledged that it is seeking such a deal, but obstacles lie in the way. Saudi Arabia is pushing for a nuclear cooperation deal and defense guarantees from the U.S.The Saudis have also said they expect Israel to make significant concessions to the Palestinians.The Saudi foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, told reporters “there is no other way” to solve the conflict than by establishing a Palestinian state. But senior ministers in Netanyahu’s government have already ruled out any concessions to the Palestinians.