<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> en route to Alaska: &quot;I&#39;m not doing this for my health. I don&#39;t need it. I&#39;d like to focus on our country — but I&#39;m doing this to save a lot of lives.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/nHd5jKSXLI">pic.twitter.com/nHd5jKSXLI</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1956341194826424432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on &quot;security guarantees&quot;: &quot;Not in the form of NATO because there are certain things that aren&#39;t going to happen — but along with Europe, there&#39;s a possibility of that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/p1VslFOrQH">pic.twitter.com/p1VslFOrQH</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1956340908728721532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755264031202.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on the possibility of territorial swaps: &quot;They&#39;ll be discussed, but I&#39;ve got to let Ukraine make that decision ... I&#39;m not here to negotiate for Ukraine. I&#39;m here to get them at a table.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/IQJGr1Wyi1">pic.twitter.com/IQJGr1Wyi1</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1956340201728426291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> gaggles with the press while en route to Anchorage, Alaska 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/JnjEKlMj3K">pic.twitter.com/JnjEKlMj3K</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1956331165696045421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> en route to ALASKA! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/KOK2uHXSLZ">pic.twitter.com/KOK2uHXSLZ</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1956326375394005252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Air Force One en route to Anchorage, Alaska. <a href="https://t.co/iyhVaDl4yx">pic.twitter.com/iyhVaDl4yx</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1956328369693327830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">POTUS🛫ALASKA… <a href="https://t.co/13UM9NAZsb">https://t.co/13UM9NAZsb</a> <a href="https://t.co/Uw0CnzZ0HX">pic.twitter.com/Uw0CnzZ0HX</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1956329245841531231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump aboard Air Force One, en route to Alaska… <a href="https://t.co/Oxwvul96SL">pic.twitter.com/Oxwvul96SL</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1956393300149105060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump discusses meeting with Putin while en route to Alaska

JOHNSON COUNTY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a restaurant fire in Overland Park.

Just after 2a.m. Thursday, crews&nbsp;battled a fire at Torreador Restaurant, 79th and Floyd, according to a social media report from Overland Park Fire Department.

&nbsp;The fire was quickly extinguished. There was smoke and fire damage to the restaurant and adjoining bookstore. There were no injuries.&nbsp;

Overland Park Consolidated Fire District #2 and Lenexa Fire responded to the scene.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a restaurant fire in Overland Park.Just after 2a.m. Thursday, crews&nbsp;battled a fire at Torreador Restaurant, 79th and Floyd, according to a social media report from Overland Park Fire Department.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An OPFD firefighter emerges from an overnight building fire as an electrical panel arcs behind him. With a primary search completed and the fire knocked down, it was time to get to safety until power to the building could be disconnected. <a href="https://t.co/YGEgbJ2vVm">pic.twitter.com/YGEgbJ2vVm</a>&mdash; Overland Park Fire Department (@OverlandParkFD) <a href="https://twitter.com/OverlandParkFD/status/1955930175088062658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;The fire was quickly extinguished. There was smoke and fire damage to the restaurant and adjoining bookstore. There were no injuries.&nbsp;Overland Park Consolidated Fire District #2 and Lenexa Fire responded to the scene.

Crews battle fire at Kansas restaurant

STONE COUNTY —A teen drowned just after 11a.m. Thursday at Table Rock Lake.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 16-year-old from Panama was swimming between the docs at Kimberling City, Little North Indian Creek. The boy disappeared beneath the surface approximately 50-feet from the dock.&nbsp; 

Stone County Fire crews utilized an underwater drone to locate him. He was recovered by a fire department diver pronounced dead at the scene. The Patrol no longer releases names of drowning incidents.

STONE COUNTY —A teen drowned just after 11a.m. Thursday at Table Rock Lake.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 16-year-old from Panama was swimming between the docs at Kimberling City, Little North Indian Creek. The boy disappeared beneath the surface approximately 50-feet from the dock.&nbsp; Stone County Fire crews utilized an underwater drone to locate him. He was recovered by a fire department diver pronounced dead at the scene. The Patrol no longer releases names of drowning incidents.

16-year-old drowns at Table Rock Lake

FRANKLIN COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Thursday in Franklin County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Freightliner semi driven by Zachary Williams, 29, Liberty, Tennessee, was northbound on Interstate 35 just south of Sand CreekRoad in the outside lane.

The semi drifted through the inside lane, crossing the grass median, entered the southbound lanes and struck a southbound 2020 Freightliner semi driven by Thomas&nbsp;Romero, 52,&nbsp;Albuquerque, New Mexico. After impact the 2023 semi came to rest in the west ditch and became fully engulfed in flames.

Williams was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Forensic Medical. EMS transported Romero to KU Medical. Williams was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

FRANKLIN COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 10:30a.m. Thursday in Franklin County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Freightliner semi driven by Zachary Williams, 29, Liberty, Tennessee, was northbound on Interstate 35 just south of Sand CreekRoad in the outside lane.The semi drifted through the inside lane, crossing the grass median, entered the southbound lanes and struck a southbound 2020 Freightliner semi driven by Thomas&nbsp;Romero, 52,&nbsp;Albuquerque, New Mexico. After impact the 2023 semi came to rest in the west ditch and became fully engulfed in flames.Williams was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Forensic Medical. EMS transported Romero to KU Medical. Williams was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver dies after wrong-way semi crash, fire on Kansas highway

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

TOPEKA — The U.S. Department of Education is investigating four Kansas school districts after a right-wing nonprofit complained about their policies allowing teachers to maintain confidentiality with transgender students.

Topeka, Shawnee Mission, Olathe and Kansas City, Kansas, public school districts are under investigation for potentially violating Title IX and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, the department said in a Thursday press release.

The education secretary, Linda McMahon, said the districts’ alleged violations are an affront to the law and educational leadership.

“School personnel should not confuse and unsettle young girls by forcing them to share sex-separated sports and intimate facilities with boys,” McMahon said, “nor should school personnel abuse their position of authority by hiding sensitive information pertaining to a child’s health and wellbeing from that child’s parents.”

She vowed a vigorous investigation into the four districts.

Those school districts allegedly allow students to participate in sports and use restrooms and locker rooms based on gender identity instead of biological sex, said the initial complaint from the Defense of Freedom Institute for Policy Studies, a conservative nonprofit founded by two former Trump administration officials. Kansas law already prohibits transgender and cisgender girls from playing sports together and bans transgender girls from school locker rooms and bathrooms.

The district policies under investigation also allow educators to maintain confidentiality with transgender students, which in some cases means not disclosing a student’s gender identity to their parents without the student’s consent.

In a 35-page complaint detailing the districts’ gender identity practices and policies, the institute encouraged the federal department to pull funding from the districts, listing court decisions, a January presidential executive order, federal law and state law as justification.

The institute alleges Shawnee Mission, Topeka and Kansas City, Kansas, districts violated Title IX “by forcing students to share intimate facilities with members of the opposite sex as a condition of participation in their education programs and activities,” the complaint said. It argues that the districts’ gender identity policies “erase” sex.

All four schools, the complaint argues, are allegedly in violation of FERPA, which prohibits districts from preventing parental access to student educational records.

The districts “are undermining parents’ rights to access their children’s educational records and appear to be distributing the information contained therein to employees with no legitimate educational interest in these records without parental consent,” the complaint said.

Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach wrote a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showdocument?id=24580&amp;t=638863684518261138" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;to McMahon in June, urging the department to investigate. He said in a Thursday announcement that Title IX was created to safeguard girls’ equal educational opportunities.

Kobach had previously sent letters to six Kansas school districts in 2023, criticizing gender identity policies and practices.

“It would be arrogant beyond belief to hide something with such weighty consequences from the very people (parents) that both law and nature vest with providing for a child’s long-term well-being,” he wrote in the December 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/10474/638460589512800000" target="_blank">letter</a>. “That a Kansas school district could so cavalierly allow&nbsp;a minor child—whom science tells us does not even have a fully formed brain until into his or her twenties—to decide whether his or her parents know about such things is shockingly irresponsible.”

Two school districts reportedly modified their policies, Kobach said, but four did not. Those four districts are the subject of the recent complaint.

Kobach also sued the Biden administration in federal court in 2024 to challenge new rules that strengthened antidiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ students and expanded the definition of sexual harassment at colleges and schools. A federal judge eventually&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/03/kansas-judge-issues-injunction-blocking-new-federal-anti-discrimination-rules-in-education/">blocked</a>&nbsp;the rules from taking effect in Kansas.

“I am grateful that we now have a federal government that takes Title IX seriously and will ensure that school districts follow the law,” Kobach said.

Title IX is enforced by the federal department’s Office of Civil Rights and FERPA is enforced by the department’s Student Privacy Policy Office.

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said in a statement the investigation and complaint illustrate “how out of touch Republicans are with reality and with what is happening in our school buildings.”

“These vague, unspecified claims are a witch hunt and a distraction from providing a world-class education,” said Sykes, whose Senate district sits within the Shawnee Mission school district.

She said the investigations are a distraction “from the real issues that are impacting our students right now,” including access to mental and physical health care, food access for families and school funding threats.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755204689376.png" alt="U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon-courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon-courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The U.S. Department of Education is investigating four Kansas school districts after a right-wing nonprofit complained about their policies allowing teachers to maintain confidentiality with transgender students.Topeka, Shawnee Mission, Olathe and Kansas City, Kansas, public school districts are under investigation for potentially violating Title IX and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, the department said in a Thursday press release.The education secretary, Linda McMahon, said the districts’ alleged violations are an affront to the law and educational leadership.“School personnel should not confuse and unsettle young girls by forcing them to share sex-separated sports and intimate facilities with boys,” McMahon said, “nor should school personnel abuse their position of authority by hiding sensitive information pertaining to a child’s health and wellbeing from that child’s parents.”She vowed a vigorous investigation into the four districts.Those school districts allegedly allow students to participate in sports and use restrooms and locker rooms based on gender identity instead of biological sex, said the initial complaint from the Defense of Freedom Institute for Policy Studies, a conservative nonprofit founded by two former Trump administration officials. Kansas law already prohibits transgender and cisgender girls from playing sports together and bans transgender girls from school locker rooms and bathrooms.The district policies under investigation also allow educators to maintain confidentiality with transgender students, which in some cases means not disclosing a student’s gender identity to their parents without the student’s consent.In a 35-page complaint detailing the districts’ gender identity practices and policies, the institute encouraged the federal department to pull funding from the districts, listing court decisions, a January presidential executive order, federal law and state law as justification.The institute alleges Shawnee Mission, Topeka and Kansas City, Kansas, districts violated Title IX “by forcing students to share intimate facilities with members of the opposite sex as a condition of participation in their education programs and activities,” the complaint said. It argues that the districts’ gender identity policies “erase” sex.All four schools, the complaint argues, are allegedly in violation of FERPA, which prohibits districts from preventing parental access to student educational records.The districts “are undermining parents’ rights to access their children’s educational records and appear to be distributing the information contained therein to employees with no legitimate educational interest in these records without parental consent,” the complaint said.Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach wrote a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showdocument?id=24580&amp;t=638863684518261138" target="_blank">letter</a>&nbsp;to McMahon in June, urging the department to investigate. He said in a Thursday announcement that Title IX was created to safeguard girls’ equal educational opportunities.Kobach had previously sent letters to six Kansas school districts in 2023, criticizing gender identity policies and practices.“It would be arrogant beyond belief to hide something with such weighty consequences from the very people (parents) that both law and nature vest with providing for a child’s long-term well-being,” he wrote in the December 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/10474/638460589512800000" target="_blank">letter</a>. “That a Kansas school district could so cavalierly allow&nbsp;a minor child—whom science tells us does not even have a fully formed brain until into his or her twenties—to decide whether his or her parents know about such things is shockingly irresponsible.”Two school districts reportedly modified their policies, Kobach said, but four did not. Those four districts are the subject of the recent complaint.Kobach also sued the Biden administration in federal court in 2024 to challenge new rules that strengthened antidiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ students and expanded the definition of sexual harassment at colleges and schools. A federal judge eventually&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/03/kansas-judge-issues-injunction-blocking-new-federal-anti-discrimination-rules-in-education/">blocked</a>&nbsp;the rules from taking effect in Kansas.“I am grateful that we now have a federal government that takes Title IX seriously and will ensure that school districts follow the law,” Kobach said.Title IX is enforced by the federal department’s Office of Civil Rights and FERPA is enforced by the department’s Student Privacy Policy Office.Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said in a statement the investigation and complaint illustrate “how out of touch Republicans are with reality and with what is happening in our school buildings.”“These vague, unspecified claims are a witch hunt and a distraction from providing a world-class education,” said Sykes, whose Senate district sits within the Shawnee Mission school district.She said the investigations are a distraction “from the real issues that are impacting our students right now,” including access to mental and physical health care, food access for families and school funding threats.

U.S. education dept. launches investigation into Kansas schools’ gender identity policies

KANSAS CITY— Law enforcement are investigating a fatal crash following an attempted traffic stop that occurred&nbsp; just after midnight Wednesday.

A police sergeant attempted to initiate a car check of a stolen white Hyundai Tucson in the area of Independence Avenue and Brooklyn in Kansas City, Missouri, according to.Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

The Hyundai refused to stop for the Sergeant and the Sergeant ended his attempt to stop the Hyundai in the area of Independence and Wabash. 

The Hyundai was last seen traveling northbound on Wabash at a high rate of speed with no patrol units pursuing it. In the area of Lexington and Wabash, the Hyundai driver failed to stop for the posted stop sign, entered the intersection and struck a westbound silver Jeep Grand Cherokee.

 The driver, front seat passenger, left rear seat passenger, and middle seat juvenile passenger of the Jeep were all transported to local hospitals with critical injuries. 

The right rear passenger of the Jeep was ejected from the vehicle and was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries and later was&nbsp; pronounced deceased by hospital staff, according to Gonzalez.

The driver and rear seat passenger of the Hyundai were both transported to local hospitals with serious injuries. The front seat passenger of the Hyundai was uninjured in the collision. The surviving driver and the surviving passengers of the Jeep are all currently in critical condition. The driver and passenger of the Hyundai are both currently in stable condition This is fatality #46 compared to #59 at this time last year according to&nbsp; Gonzalez.

KANSAS CITY— Law enforcement are investigating a fatal crash following an attempted traffic stop that occurred&nbsp; just after midnight Wednesday.A police sergeant attempted to initiate a car check of a stolen white Hyundai Tucson in the area of Independence Avenue and Brooklyn in Kansas City, Missouri, according to.Officer Alayna Gonzalez.The Hyundai refused to stop for the Sergeant and the Sergeant ended his attempt to stop the Hyundai in the area of Independence and Wabash. The Hyundai was last seen traveling northbound on Wabash at a high rate of speed with no patrol units pursuing it. In the area of Lexington and Wabash, the Hyundai driver failed to stop for the posted stop sign, entered the intersection and struck a westbound silver Jeep Grand Cherokee. The driver, front seat passenger, left rear seat passenger, and middle seat juvenile passenger of the Jeep were all transported to local hospitals with critical injuries. The right rear passenger of the Jeep was ejected from the vehicle and was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries and later was&nbsp; pronounced deceased by hospital staff, according to Gonzalez.The driver and rear seat passenger of the Hyundai were both transported to local hospitals with serious injuries. The front seat passenger of the Hyundai was uninjured in the collision. The surviving driver and the surviving passengers of the Jeep are all currently in critical condition. The driver and passenger of the Hyundai are both currently in stable condition This is fatality #46 compared to #59 at this time last year according to&nbsp; Gonzalez.

KCPD: 1 dead after driver of SUV fled traffic stop

&nbsp;Danny Zeck, a member of the Kansas State Board of Education, appears at a July 8, 2025, board meeting. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA — Judith Deedy said there’s been a disconnect for a decade in Kansas’ student assessment scores.

Her oldest child once earned fives — the highest level at the time — until 2015, when she began scoring at level three after the assessment scores changed.

“The Kansas assessment has persistently been an outlier for all of the three children in my own family and for thousands of students across the state, as data has shown,” Deedy, a public education advocate, said at a Tuesday meeting of the Kansas State Board of Education.

State assessment scores have shown a steady increase in the number of Kansas students scoring lower on math, science and English language arts tests since 2016, while achieving marks of post-secondary success, such as higher education degrees and military careers.

The state education board voted 7-3 on Tuesday to change assessment cut scores in the 2025-2026 school year, broadening the scoring range and shrinking the tests. Board members Michelle Dombrosky, Connie O’Brien and Debby Potter voted against resetting the scores.

In partnership with the University of Kansas and with input from nearly 150 educators, the Kansas State Department of Education crafted new metrics for the assessment tests students periodically take in English language arts, math and science throughout their school careers.

Cut scores divide performance levels, reflecting student achievement.

Following the board’s vote, cut scores are undergoing an expansion. Previously, the scoring scale ranged from 220-380, with cutoffs varying by grade, level and subject.

Now, the lowest obtainable score is 400 across all grades and subjects, and the highest is 700. Level two cuts off at 510, and the level three cutoff is 540 for all grades and subjects. The level four cutoff varies by grade and subject.

In May, the board approved new performance definitions for each level. Previously, scores fell into the following levels: limited, basic, effective and excellent. Now, “limited” and “basic” remain for levels one and two, but “effective” was changed to “proficient” and “excellent” to “advanced.”

Beth Fultz, director of career standards and assessment services for the education department, addressed the board before its vote. She said it “was an opportunity to impact Kansas education for several years to come.”

Beryl New, a board member from Topeka, said she has heard from constituents who are concerned the state education department is lowering standards.

Fultz responded that the change is more of a realignment of expectations for student performance.

“I do believe we are not reducing the rigor on this assessment,” Fultz said.

The state education commissioner, Randy Watson, said the department brought to the table “a scientifically based process that’s nationally recognized,” and came from the voices of teachers. He assured the board that the new scores still set the highest expectations for Kansas kids.

Deedy, who spoke during the board’s public forum section at the beginning of the meeting, said the old cut scores overshot a desire to be aspirational.

“Adjusting cut scores is not lowering our standards,” Deedy said, ”but rather improving the predictability and reliability of this point-in-time assessment to more accurately reflect student achievement levels.”

Danny Zeck, a board member from Leavenworth, said he struggles with assessments. He said he was once what he called “a level one kid.”

Zeck, following a long pause, said: “The problem I have with level one, two, three and four is that level one person wakes up sometime and they’re gonna be successful.”

He also encouraged parents, if they do not agree with the new cut scores, to exempt their students from participating in assessments.

“C’mon, people,” he said. “If you really dislike it, opt them out. It’s not a rocket science deal.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755189194778.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Danny Zeck, a member of the Kansas State Board of Education, appears at a July 8, 2025, board meeting. (Anna Kaminski/Kansas Reflector)BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Judith Deedy said there’s been a disconnect for a decade in Kansas’ student assessment scores.Her oldest child once earned fives — the highest level at the time — until 2015, when she began scoring at level three after the assessment scores changed.“The Kansas assessment has persistently been an outlier for all of the three children in my own family and for thousands of students across the state, as data has shown,” Deedy, a public education advocate, said at a Tuesday meeting of the Kansas State Board of Education.State assessment scores have shown a steady increase in the number of Kansas students scoring lower on math, science and English language arts tests since 2016, while achieving marks of post-secondary success, such as higher education degrees and military careers.The state education board voted 7-3 on Tuesday to change assessment cut scores in the 2025-2026 school year, broadening the scoring range and shrinking the tests. Board members Michelle Dombrosky, Connie O’Brien and Debby Potter voted against resetting the scores.In partnership with the University of Kansas and with input from nearly 150 educators, the Kansas State Department of Education crafted new metrics for the assessment tests students periodically take in English language arts, math and science throughout their school careers.Cut scores divide performance levels, reflecting student achievement.Following the board’s vote, cut scores are undergoing an expansion. Previously, the scoring scale ranged from 220-380, with cutoffs varying by grade, level and subject.Now, the lowest obtainable score is 400 across all grades and subjects, and the highest is 700. Level two cuts off at 510, and the level three cutoff is 540 for all grades and subjects. The level four cutoff varies by grade and subject.In May, the board approved new performance definitions for each level. Previously, scores fell into the following levels: limited, basic, effective and excellent. Now, “limited” and “basic” remain for levels one and two, but “effective” was changed to “proficient” and “excellent” to “advanced.”Beth Fultz, director of career standards and assessment services for the education department, addressed the board before its vote. She said it “was an opportunity to impact Kansas education for several years to come.”Beryl New, a board member from Topeka, said she has heard from constituents who are concerned the state education department is lowering standards.Fultz responded that the change is more of a realignment of expectations for student performance.“I do believe we are not reducing the rigor on this assessment,” Fultz said.The state education commissioner, Randy Watson, said the department brought to the table “a scientifically based process that’s nationally recognized,” and came from the voices of teachers. He assured the board that the new scores still set the highest expectations for Kansas kids.Deedy, who spoke during the board’s public forum section at the beginning of the meeting, said the old cut scores overshot a desire to be aspirational.“Adjusting cut scores is not lowering our standards,” Deedy said, ”but rather improving the predictability and reliability of this point-in-time assessment to more accurately reflect student achievement levels.”Danny Zeck, a board member from Leavenworth, said he struggles with assessments. He said he was once what he called “a level one kid.”Zeck, following a long pause, said: “The problem I have with level one, two, three and four is that level one person wakes up sometime and they’re gonna be successful.”Everybody reacts differently, he said.He also encouraged parents, if they do not agree with the new cut scores, to exempt their students from participating in assessments.“C’mon, people,” he said. “If you really dislike it, opt them out. It’s not a rocket science deal.”

Kansas state education board expands scoring range for student assessments

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating what police now believe is accidental shooting in Lawrence.

Just before 7p.m. Wednesday police found several people in and around the apartment&nbsp; near 19th and Naismith, according to a media release.&nbsp; One man had been shot in the abdomen. Officers worked to slow the bleeding and provide other lifesaving measures until medics from Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical arrived. 

Crime Scene Investigators processed the scene and detectives brought several witnesses in for questioning. The victim was transported to a trauma center by ambulance.&nbsp;The man who fired the gun is cooperating with police.&nbsp; Police released no additional details late Wednesday.

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating what police now believe is accidental shooting in Lawrence.Just before 7p.m. Wednesday police found several people in and around the apartment&nbsp; near 19th and Naismith, according to a media release.&nbsp; One man had been shot in the abdomen. Officers worked to slow the bleeding and provide other lifesaving measures until medics from Lawrence Douglas County Fire Medical arrived. Crime Scene Investigators processed the scene and detectives brought several witnesses in for questioning. The victim was transported to a trauma center by ambulance.&nbsp;The man who fired the gun is cooperating with police.&nbsp; Police released no additional details late Wednesday.

Police: Kansas man hospitalized after accidental shooting

MORGAN COUNTY —A 2-year-old girl drowned just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday at Lake of the Ozarks.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported the child wandered away from home located at 10.2 of the Gravois Arm of the lake. She was discovered face-up in the lake and transported by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital. 

She was pronounced deceased just after 12:30p.m. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

MORGAN COUNTY —A 2-year-old girl drowned just after 10:30a.m. Wednesday at Lake of the Ozarks.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported the child wandered away from home located at 10.2 of the Gravois Arm of the lake. She was discovered face-up in the lake and transported by ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital. She was pronounced deceased just after 12:30p.m. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

2-year-old wandered from home, drowns at Lake of the Ozarks

KANSAS CITY —Three people were rescued from apartment building fire in Kansas City on Wednesday.

Just before 6a.m. Wednesday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported building fire in the 4100 block of Pennsylvania in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

First responders reported heavy fire from the second floor of a three-story multi-use building. The building contained commercial space on the first floor and apartments on the second and third. 

Crews initiated interior operations and conducted three successful rescue operations. Additional searches of the structure came back all clear. All three patients were transported in stable condition to be evaluated for smoke inhalation. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755113249137.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Three people were rescued from apartment building fire in Kansas City on Wednesday.Just before 6a.m. Wednesday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported building fire in the 4100 block of Pennsylvania in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.First responders reported heavy fire from the second floor of a three-story multi-use building. The building contained commercial space on the first floor and apartments on the second and third. Crews initiated interior operations and conducted three successful rescue operations. Additional searches of the structure came back all clear. All three patients were transported in stable condition to be evaluated for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD.

Three rescued from apartment fire in Kansas City

KANSAS CITY –&nbsp;<a></a>A Kansas City, Missouri man was sentenced to four years of imprisonment in federal court for conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons and illegally trafficking firearms, according to the United State's Attorney.

Antonio Manning, Sr., 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 48 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.&nbsp;The court also ordered the defendant to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $11,260.

On April 14, 2025, Antonio Manning admitted that he knowingly and willfully joined in an agreement to sell firearms to individuals who were prohibited from possessing them under federal law.&nbsp; According to the plea agreement, the defendants trafficked at least 22 firearms to persons who were known felons or they sold firearms that were converted into unregistered machineguns in violation of federal law.&nbsp; Pursuant to the plea agreement, Antonio Manning admitted that he was personally involved in illegally selling at least nine firearms and one of those firearms was an unregistered machinegun.

On Jan. 22, 2025, co-defendant Sheron Manning, the brother of Antonio Manning, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons and to one count of illegally trafficking a firearm that had been converted into an unregistered machinegun.&nbsp; On May 21, 2025, Sheron Manning, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 57 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.

On April 07, 2025, co-defendant Michael Dewayne Hardy, 23, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons, to one count of illegally trafficking a firearm that had been converted into an unregistered machinegun, and one count of knowingly being a felon in possession of firearms.&nbsp; On June 26, 2024, Michael Dewayne Hardy, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 70 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.

KANSAS CITY –&nbsp;<a></a>A Kansas City, Missouri man was sentenced to four years of imprisonment in federal court for conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons and illegally trafficking firearms, according to the United State's Attorney.Antonio Manning, Sr., 23, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 48 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.&nbsp;The court also ordered the defendant to pay a criminal forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $11,260.On April 14, 2025, Antonio Manning admitted that he knowingly and willfully joined in an agreement to sell firearms to individuals who were prohibited from possessing them under federal law.&nbsp; According to the plea agreement, the defendants trafficked at least 22 firearms to persons who were known felons or they sold firearms that were converted into unregistered machineguns in violation of federal law.&nbsp; Pursuant to the plea agreement, Antonio Manning admitted that he was personally involved in illegally selling at least nine firearms and one of those firearms was an unregistered machinegun.On Jan. 22, 2025, co-defendant Sheron Manning, the brother of Antonio Manning, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons and to one count of illegally trafficking a firearm that had been converted into an unregistered machinegun.&nbsp; On May 21, 2025, Sheron Manning, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 57 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.On April 07, 2025, co-defendant Michael Dewayne Hardy, 23, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to traffic firearms to prohibited persons, to one count of illegally trafficking a firearm that had been converted into an unregistered machinegun, and one count of knowingly being a felon in possession of firearms.&nbsp; On June 26, 2024, Michael Dewayne Hardy, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips, to 70 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.

Prison for selling unregistered machine guns to known felons 

KANSAS CITY– The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) announced on Wednesday a case of an adult Missouri resident with a laboratory-confirmed infection of&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/naegleria/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/index.html">Naegleria fowleri</a>&nbsp;is a microscopic single-celled free-living ameba that can cause a rare deadly infection of the brain called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), also known as “brain-eating” infection. Typically, fewer than 10 people a year in the United States get PAM.

The Missouri patient is currently being treated for PAM in an intensive care unit of a hospital, and currently, no additional suspected cases of PAM are being investigated in Missouri.

The ameba is common and naturally present in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers and ponds; however, PAM is extremely rare. Between 1962 and 2024, there were 167 reported cases of PAM in the United States.

The source of the patient’s exposure is currently being investigated by public health officials. While not confirmed, preliminary information implies the patient may have been water skiing at the Lake of the Ozarks days prior to becoming ill. Recreational water users should assume that&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;is present in warm freshwater across the United States; however, infection remains very rare.

Although a rare occurrence, people become infected by&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;when water containing the ameba enters the body through the nose from freshwater sources. The&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;ameba then travels up the nose to the brain where it damages the brain tissue. This infection cannot be spread from one person to another, and it cannot be contracted by swallowing contaminated water.

People can take actions to reduce the risk of infection by limiting the amount of water going up the nose. These actions could include:

Those who experience the following symptoms after swimming in any warm body of water should contact their health care provider immediately as the disease progresses rapidly:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755118398929.png" alt="Naegleria fowleri  infects people by traveling up the nose and to the brain (shown here) where it consumes brain tissue. Photo: Dr. James Roberts, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta" />
 <figcaption>Naegleria fowleri  infects people by traveling up the nose and to the brain (shown here) where it consumes brain tissue. Photo: Dr. James Roberts, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY– The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) announced on Wednesday a case of an adult Missouri resident with a laboratory-confirmed infection of&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/naegleria/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/naegleria/index.html">Naegleria fowleri</a>&nbsp;is a microscopic single-celled free-living ameba that can cause a rare deadly infection of the brain called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), also known as “brain-eating” infection. Typically, fewer than 10 people a year in the United States get PAM.The Missouri patient is currently being treated for PAM in an intensive care unit of a hospital, and currently, no additional suspected cases of PAM are being investigated in Missouri.The ameba is common and naturally present in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers and ponds; however, PAM is extremely rare. Between 1962 and 2024, there were 167 reported cases of PAM in the United States.The source of the patient’s exposure is currently being investigated by public health officials. While not confirmed, preliminary information implies the patient may have been water skiing at the Lake of the Ozarks days prior to becoming ill. Recreational water users should assume that&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;is present in warm freshwater across the United States; however, infection remains very rare.Although a rare occurrence, people become infected by&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;when water containing the ameba enters the body through the nose from freshwater sources. The&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;ameba then travels up the nose to the brain where it damages the brain tissue. This infection cannot be spread from one person to another, and it cannot be contracted by swallowing contaminated water.People can take actions to reduce the risk of infection by limiting the amount of water going up the nose. These actions could include:<ul>
 <li>Hold your nose shut, use nose clips, or keep your head above water when taking part in activities in bodies of warm freshwater, especially if you jump or dive into the water.</li><li>Avoid putting your head under the water in hot springs and other untreated thermal waters.</li><li>Avoid water-related activities in warm freshwater during periods of high-water temperature.</li><li>Avoid digging in, or stirring up, the sediment while taking part in water-related activities in shallow, warm freshwater areas.&nbsp;Naegleria fowleri&nbsp;amebas are more likely to live in sediment at the bottom of lakes, ponds and rivers.</li>
 </ul>Those who experience the following symptoms after swimming in any warm body of water should contact their health care provider immediately as the disease progresses rapidly:<ul>
 <li>Severe headache.</li><li>Fever.</li><li>Nausea.</li><li>Vomiting.</li><li>Stiff neck.</li><li>Seizures.</li><li>Altered mental status.</li><li>Hallucinations.</li>
 </ul>

Victim in ICU with 'brain-eating' amoeba had been at Lake of the Ozarks

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/7v3sX41WVujpU5S5oDNfVdUtl4bGe0JJUeZLnMafa3A=417">Kansas&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks Commission</a>&nbsp;will hold its next public meeting on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/vAZKVyFc9VkO3bCZCuVzCeePlbaEJfBgQWpPIZIcoto=417">Thursday, August 14, 2025</a>, at the Finnup Center at the Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City. The meeting will begin at noon and continue until all agenda items are addressed.

Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FHow-to-Attend-Commission-Meetings-Virtually%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/BWUVxYbMNQdr-bnVFrJgK907qnpuP2ur2nsx-t0CuJ4=417">HERE</a>&nbsp;under “How To Attend Commission Meetings Virtually.”

The meeting will begin with a report from the Kansas Department of&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks, including a public hearing on the following regulations:

Commissioners will also receive updates on regulations currently in the promulgation process.

The meeting will conclude with an additional opportunity for public comment.

The complete agenda can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/2/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/LgbKoYmp5OyXa94_N5C2OtbMPUzH91LcQ3lYO-jy95o=417">HERE</a>.

An interpreter for the hearing impaired can be requested by calling the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Individuals with disabilities may request other accommodations by contacting KDWP at (785) 294-2645.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/7v3sX41WVujpU5S5oDNfVdUtl4bGe0JJUeZLnMafa3A=417">Kansas&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks Commission</a>&nbsp;will hold its next public meeting on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/vAZKVyFc9VkO3bCZCuVzCeePlbaEJfBgQWpPIZIcoto=417">Thursday, August 14, 2025</a>, at the Finnup Center at the Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City. The meeting will begin at noon and continue until all agenda items are addressed.Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FHow-to-Attend-Commission-Meetings-Virtually%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/BWUVxYbMNQdr-bnVFrJgK907qnpuP2ur2nsx-t0CuJ4=417">HERE</a>&nbsp;under “How To Attend Commission Meetings Virtually.”The meeting will begin with a report from the Kansas Department of&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks, including a public hearing on the following regulations:<ul>
 <li>K.A.R. 115-2-1 – Trout Fee and Senior License FeesEstablishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting OR Fishing License (ages 65–74) for $50.Establishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting AND Fishing Combo License (ages 65–74) for $90.Increasing the trout permit fee from $12 to $17.50.</li><li>Establishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting OR Fishing License (ages 65–74) for $50.</li><li>Establishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting AND Fishing Combo License (ages 65–74) for $90.</li><li>Increasing the trout permit fee from $12 to $17.50.</li><li>K.A.R. 115-4-4 – Nonlead Muzzleloader ShotExpanding allowable projectile types for muzzleloaders, enabling use of modern, non-lead (non-toxic) options.</li><li>Expanding allowable projectile types for muzzleloaders, enabling use of modern, non-lead (non-toxic) options.</li><li>K.A.R. 115-25-9 – Deer SeasonsUpdating season dates, units, and permit limits for the 2025–2026 Extended White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm Season:Proposed Season DatesUnit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026Proposed Permit LimitsNo WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18One WAO permit: Unit 3Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>Updating season dates, units, and permit limits for the 2025–2026 Extended White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm Season:Proposed Season DatesUnit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026Proposed Permit LimitsNo WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18One WAO permit: Unit 3Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>Proposed Season DatesUnit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026</li><li>Unit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026</li><li>Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026</li><li>Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026</li><li>Proposed Permit LimitsNo WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18One WAO permit: Unit 3Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>No WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18</li><li>One WAO permit: Unit 3</li><li>Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16</li><li>Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>K.A.R. 115-25-9a – Deer Seasons on Military UnitsSetting specific deer season dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Smoky Hill Air National Guard, including antlerless-only and extended firearm opportunities.Fort RileyPre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026Fort LeavenworthFirearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026Smoky Hill Air National GuardFirearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>Setting specific deer season dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Smoky Hill Air National Guard, including antlerless-only and extended firearm opportunities.Fort RileyPre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026Fort LeavenworthFirearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026Smoky Hill Air National GuardFirearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>Fort RileyPre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026</li><li>Pre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025</li><li>White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025</li><li>Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025</li><li>Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026</li><li>Fort LeavenworthFirearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026</li><li>Firearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025</li><li>Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026</li><li>Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026</li><li>Smoky Hill Air National GuardFirearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>Firearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>K.A.R. 115-25-12 – Coyote SeasonsExtending the night vision coyote hunting season to run from September 1 through March 31, excluding the following periods:The first Saturday in September and the 22 consecutive days following (total of 23 days)The Wednesday following Thanksgiving and the 11 consecutive days following (total of 12 days)If approved, the 2025-2026 night vision coyote hunting season would begin September 29 and run through December 2, then resume December 15 through March 31, 2026. The September 1-5 window will not be in effect for 2025 due to regulatory timelines.</li><li>Extending the night vision coyote hunting season to run from September 1 through March 31, excluding the following periods:The first Saturday in September and the 22 consecutive days following (total of 23 days)The Wednesday following Thanksgiving and the 11 consecutive days following (total of 12 days)</li><li>The first Saturday in September and the 22 consecutive days following (total of 23 days)</li><li>The Wednesday following Thanksgiving and the 11 consecutive days following (total of 12 days)</li><li>If approved, the 2025-2026 night vision coyote hunting season would begin September 29 and run through December 2, then resume December 15 through March 31, 2026. The September 1-5 window will not be in effect for 2025 due to regulatory timelines.</li><li>K.A.R. 115-5-1 – Coyote Equipment, Taking MethodsUpdating the season dates established by K.A.R. 115-25-12.</li><li>Updating the season dates established by K.A.R. 115-25-12.</li>
 </ul>Commissioners will also receive updates on regulations currently in the promulgation process.Other agenda items include:<ul>
 <li>General public comment</li><li>Remarks from KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy</li><li>Informational updates on Kansas State Park camping fees</li><li>General discussion on nonresident waterfowl hunting</li><li>Review of additional topics that may be voted on at a future meeting</li>
 </ul>The meeting will conclude with an additional opportunity for public comment.The complete agenda can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/2/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/LgbKoYmp5OyXa94_N5C2OtbMPUzH91LcQ3lYO-jy95o=417">HERE</a>.Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FHow-to-Attend-Commission-Meetings-Virtually%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/BWUVxYbMNQdr-bnVFrJgK907qnpuP2ur2nsx-t0CuJ4=417">HERE</a>&nbsp;under “How To Attend Commission Meetings Virtually.”An interpreter for the hearing impaired can be requested by calling the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Individuals with disabilities may request other accommodations by contacting KDWP at (785) 294-2645.

Kan. wildlife officials to review deer, coyote and trout regulations

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Kennedy Center is proud to announce our incredible lineup of 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees: •George Strait (<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeStrait?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeorgeStrait</a>) •Michael Crawford •Sylvester Stallone (<a href="https://twitter.com/TheSlyStallone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSlyStallone</a>) •Gloria Gaynor (<a href="https://twitter.com/gloriagaynor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GloriaGaynor</a>) •Kiss (<a href="https://twitter.com/kiss?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kiss</a>) Congratulations to our 48th Class! <a href="https://t.co/y8iWt4U0Lq">pic.twitter.com/y8iWt4U0Lq</a>&mdash; The Kennedy Center (@kencen) <a href="https://twitter.com/kencen/status/1955665540208603319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeStrait?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeorgeStrait</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/QWJ89jYXIE">pic.twitter.com/QWJ89jYXIE</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955655797846732992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces Michael Crawford as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee. <a href="https://t.co/wDpNxgSrSG">pic.twitter.com/wDpNxgSrSG</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955656852529889353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces <a href="https://twitter.com/kiss?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kiss</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/2humQiLBio">pic.twitter.com/2humQiLBio</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955658164130775127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces legendary actor <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSlyStallone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSlyStallone</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/wOro0slUCx">pic.twitter.com/wOro0slUCx</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955658539453554690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces <a href="https://twitter.com/gloriagaynor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gloriagaynor</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/YPztXwvCeZ">pic.twitter.com/YPztXwvCeZ</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955658293734707559?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Country music legend among Kennedy Center honor nominees

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a four-vehicle crash that sent three people to the hospital.

Just before 7p.m. Tuesday, a black Chevrolet Malibu was eastbound on 18th Street at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

 At 18th and Indiana, The Chevrolet struck a northbound Toyota Highlander.&nbsp; The Chevrolet then struck a westbound Dodge Durango. The impact forced the Toyota into a rotational spin and redirected the Toyota into the westbound lanes of 18th Street. 

As the Toyota was spinning, it struck a red Ford Taurus and a black Chrysler 200 that were both traveling westbound on 18th Street before coming to rest. 

EMS transported the driver of the Toyota to a local hospital with critical injuries. The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The passenger of the Chevrolet was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

All of the drivers and or passengers of the Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and Chrysler fled the scene of the collision prior to the arrival of the responding officers. 

The driver of the Toyota was in critical, but stable condition Wednesday morning, according to Gonzalez.&nbsp; The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota and the passenger of the Chevrolet are both in stable condition. Police released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a four-vehicle crash that sent three people to the hospital.Just before 7p.m. Tuesday, a black Chevrolet Malibu was eastbound on 18th Street at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. At 18th and Indiana, The Chevrolet struck a northbound Toyota Highlander.&nbsp; The Chevrolet then struck a westbound Dodge Durango. The impact forced the Toyota into a rotational spin and redirected the Toyota into the westbound lanes of 18th Street. As the Toyota was spinning, it struck a red Ford Taurus and a black Chrysler 200 that were both traveling westbound on 18th Street before coming to rest. EMS transported the driver of the Toyota to a local hospital with critical injuries. The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The passenger of the Chevrolet was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. All of the drivers and or passengers of the Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and Chrysler fled the scene of the collision prior to the arrival of the responding officers. The driver of the Toyota was in critical, but stable condition Wednesday morning, according to Gonzalez.&nbsp; The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota and the passenger of the Chevrolet are both in stable condition. Police released no additional details.

KCPD: 4 drivers fled after 5-vehicle critical injury crash

LAWRENCE, Kan.—&nbsp;Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season kickoff against Fresno State on Aug. 23, the University of Kansas announced an unprecedented gift from alumnus David G. Booth of Austin, Texas. The extraordinary gift, amounting to approximately $300 million, is the largest in Kansas Athletics and University of Kansas history, and is among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics, according to a media release from the university.&nbsp;

Booth, a graduate of both Lawrence High School and KU, is an investing legend and founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors — a global investment firm that manages $853 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025. Booth's visionary gift includes a $75 million challenge to other donors that launches the next phase of progress on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The remainder of his commitment will generate a stream of income that will strengthen Kansas Athletics across generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"David's unprecedented generosity is transformative now and for our future," said KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/travis-goff/166">Travis Goff</a>. "It accelerates phase II of the Gateway District and the new 'Booth' and inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision. We're profoundly grateful for David's leadership and extraordinary impact on generations of student-athletes and fans. There is no more generous and impactful Jayhawk, and we are so fortunate to call him a friend and mentor."&nbsp;

It's not just the scale of the gift that is remarkable, but what it will accomplish. Booth's commitment will propel the Gateway District's next phase, which adds to private and civic investment for a new hotel, additional retail and restaurant spaces, student housing, improved parking and an outdoor event plaza.

The remainder of Booth's gift will allow Kansas Athletics to be strategic, innovative and maintain a leadership position in college athletics. With the advent of revenue sharing and the continued changes in NCAA and conference dynamics, his generosity will help enable KU to take the next step in cementing itself as a national leader in college athletics.

"David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities, generate Jayhawk spirit and create lasting bonds between alumni, students and fans," said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. "His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep. We are beyond grateful for his transformative gift."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For Booth, giving back to KU is an investment in the university and its mission. He hopes his philanthropy will inspire others to also support the Gateway District project and what he calls "the prototype for future football stadiums" at whatever level they can.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"One of life's greatest privileges is being able to give back to the people and places that gave so much to you," said Booth. "KU and Lawrence are a big part of my story, and it means a lot to support the community that invested in me. Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come. This is really about the future we're building."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

When he was a child, Booth's parents, Gilbert and Betty Booth, moved the family from their home in Garnett, Kansas, to Lawrence at 1931 Naismith Drive, near Allen Fieldhouse. The family gathered regularly to listen to KU games on the radio, glued to Max Falkenstien's iconic voice. At the age of 13, Booth attended his first game through the Boy Scouts, working as an usher in the football stadium. He later worked basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse by selling popcorn in the stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Lawrence High graduate attended KU, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1968 and a Master of Science in Business in 1969 before earning his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Booth founded Dimensional Fund Advisors in 1981 to apply the principles of financial science to practical investment solutions. Booth started Dimensional in collaboration with several others from the University of Chicago, including Booth's mentor, former professor and Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama, and classmate Rex Sinquefield, who co-founded the firm. Booth and Dimensional have been recognized for helping transform the industry toward more transparent, low-cost and data-driven solutions for investors. That story was recently profiled by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris in the film "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T98825bzcKw" target="_blank">Tune Out the Noise</a>."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Booth's landmark gift is the most recent in his long legacy of support at KU, helping transform athletics and its impact for the university. Booth provided a foundational gift of $50 million in 2017 to kick off renovations at the stadium, which was named for him in 2018. In 2010, he donated James Naismith's original rules of basketball to the university, a top attraction at the Booth Family Hall of Athletics, which he and his family provided $5 million for in 2004, followed by $4 million for subsequent improvements. His philanthropy is legendary and extends across areas, including the arts and academics. In 2008, he provided a gift valued at $300 million to the University of Chicago School of Business, where he earned his MBA. The school was named the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in his honor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

With KU's football season opener around the corner, Booth's excitement to get back to the stadium is growing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I feel the same inspiration that I felt as an usher in the stadium in 1960," Booth said. "I was blown away by all the people in the stands, the Jayhawk spirit. I'm feeling the same way now — I'm ready to celebrate with everyone."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755093387790.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan.—&nbsp;Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season kickoff against Fresno State on Aug. 23, the University of Kansas announced an unprecedented gift from alumnus David G. Booth of Austin, Texas. The extraordinary gift, amounting to approximately $300 million, is the largest in Kansas Athletics and University of Kansas history, and is among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics, according to a media release from the university.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For every Jayhawk today and tomorrow – Thank you, David Booth. 🔗→<a href="https://t.co/eF80fPxmfc">https://t.co/eF80fPxmfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/oQGvOatSk6">pic.twitter.com/oQGvOatSk6</a>&mdash; Kansas Jayhawks (@KUAthletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUAthletics/status/1955625648334032933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script</div>Booth, a graduate of both Lawrence High School and KU, is an investing legend and founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors — a global investment firm that manages $853 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025. Booth's visionary gift includes a $75 million challenge to other donors that launches the next phase of progress on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The remainder of his commitment will generate a stream of income that will strengthen Kansas Athletics across generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;"David's unprecedented generosity is transformative now and for our future," said KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/travis-goff/166">Travis Goff</a>. "It accelerates phase II of the Gateway District and the new 'Booth' and inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision. We're profoundly grateful for David's leadership and extraordinary impact on generations of student-athletes and fans. There is no more generous and impactful Jayhawk, and we are so fortunate to call him a friend and mentor."&nbsp;It's not just the scale of the gift that is remarkable, but what it will accomplish. Booth's commitment will propel the Gateway District's next phase, which adds to private and civic investment for a new hotel, additional retail and restaurant spaces, student housing, improved parking and an outdoor event plaza.The remainder of Booth's gift will allow Kansas Athletics to be strategic, innovative and maintain a leadership position in college athletics. With the advent of revenue sharing and the continued changes in NCAA and conference dynamics, his generosity will help enable KU to take the next step in cementing itself as a national leader in college athletics."David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities, generate Jayhawk spirit and create lasting bonds between alumni, students and fans," said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. "His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep. We are beyond grateful for his transformative gift."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For Booth, giving back to KU is an investment in the university and its mission. He hopes his philanthropy will inspire others to also support the Gateway District project and what he calls "the prototype for future football stadiums" at whatever level they can.&nbsp;&nbsp;"One of life's greatest privileges is being able to give back to the people and places that gave so much to you," said Booth. "KU and Lawrence are a big part of my story, and it means a lot to support the community that invested in me. Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come. This is really about the future we're building."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When he was a child, Booth's parents, Gilbert and Betty Booth, moved the family from their home in Garnett, Kansas, to Lawrence at 1931 Naismith Drive, near Allen Fieldhouse. The family gathered regularly to listen to KU games on the radio, glued to Max Falkenstien's iconic voice. At the age of 13, Booth attended his first game through the Boy Scouts, working as an usher in the football stadium. He later worked basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse by selling popcorn in the stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Lawrence High graduate attended KU, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1968 and a Master of Science in Business in 1969 before earning his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Booth founded Dimensional Fund Advisors in 1981 to apply the principles of financial science to practical investment solutions. Booth started Dimensional in collaboration with several others from the University of Chicago, including Booth's mentor, former professor and Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama, and classmate Rex Sinquefield, who co-founded the firm. Booth and Dimensional have been recognized for helping transform the industry toward more transparent, low-cost and data-driven solutions for investors. That story was recently profiled by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris in the film "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T98825bzcKw" target="_blank">Tune Out the Noise</a>."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Booth's landmark gift is the most recent in his long legacy of support at KU, helping transform athletics and its impact for the university. Booth provided a foundational gift of $50 million in 2017 to kick off renovations at the stadium, which was named for him in 2018. In 2010, he donated James Naismith's original rules of basketball to the university, a top attraction at the Booth Family Hall of Athletics, which he and his family provided $5 million for in 2004, followed by $4 million for subsequent improvements. His philanthropy is legendary and extends across areas, including the arts and academics. In 2008, he provided a gift valued at $300 million to the University of Chicago School of Business, where he earned his MBA. The school was named the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in his honor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With KU's football season opener around the corner, Booth's excitement to get back to the stadium is growing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I feel the same inspiration that I felt as an usher in the stadium in 1960," Booth said. "I was blown away by all the people in the stands, the Jayhawk spirit. I'm feeling the same way now — I'm ready to celebrate with everyone."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥 KU receives among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics

A Kansas state representative is calling on Gov. Laura Kelly to address allegations of misconduct involving his predecessor, now serving on the Kansas State Fair Board.

Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, said in a letter to Kelly on Monday that Jason Probst, acted “highly inappropriately” toward him during the Boots and Bling fundraiser for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation on Saturday. Sweely defeated Probst in the 2024 election for the 102nd District seat. Kelly appointed Probst to the Fair Board on July 7.

“Mr. Probst, visibly intoxicated, made disturbing sexual and homophobic comments toward me in front of attendees, and had to be physically held back due to escalating, aggressive behavior,” Sweely wrote in a statement to Hutch Post on Tuesday.

When asked, Jason Probst replied to the accusations saying in a statement, "Kyler Sweely is doing all he can to deflect from his history of abuse and dishonesty. If his feelings get hurt so easily perhaps public service isn’t for him."&nbsp;

In the letter to Gov. Kelly, Sweely said the encounter was not an isolated incident, claiming it was the second time in the past month that Probst had directed a “rant filled with homophobic comments” at him. He urged the governor to “immediately review this matter and take appropriate action” regarding Probst’s continued role on the board.

Kelly’s office confirmed receipt of Sweely’s letter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722265569928.jpeg" alt="Kyler Sweely -file photo" />
 <figcaption>Kyler Sweely -file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;A Kansas state representative is calling on Gov. Laura Kelly to address allegations of misconduct involving his predecessor, now serving on the Kansas State Fair Board.Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, said in a letter to Kelly on Monday that Jason Probst, acted “highly inappropriately” toward him during the Boots and Bling fundraiser for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation on Saturday. Sweely defeated Probst in the 2024 election for the 102nd District seat. Kelly appointed Probst to the Fair Board on July 7.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665505897161.jpeg" alt="Jason Probst-file photo" />
 <figcaption>Jason Probst-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“Mr. Probst, visibly intoxicated, made disturbing sexual and homophobic comments toward me in front of attendees, and had to be physically held back due to escalating, aggressive behavior,” Sweely wrote in a statement to Hutch Post on Tuesday.When asked, Jason Probst replied to the accusations saying in a statement, "Kyler Sweely is doing all he can to deflect from his history of abuse and dishonesty. If his feelings get hurt so easily perhaps public service isn’t for him."&nbsp;In the letter to Gov. Kelly, Sweely said the encounter was not an isolated incident, claiming it was the second time in the past month that Probst had directed a “rant filled with homophobic comments” at him. He urged the governor to “immediately review this matter and take appropriate action” regarding Probst’s continued role on the board.Kelly’s office confirmed receipt of Sweely’s letter.

Kan. lawmaker asks governor to remove rival from State Fair Board

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump: &quot;We&#39;re going to have a meeting with Vladimir Putin and at the end of that meeting, probably in the first two minutes, I&#39;ll know exactly whether or not a deal can be made.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/edokeefe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@edokeefe</a>: &quot;How will you know that?&quot; Trump: &quot;Because that&#39;s what I do. I make deals.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/0zAtfgAxCT">pic.twitter.com/0zAtfgAxCT</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1954935746751615406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Trump explains how he'll know if Putin wants a peace deal with Ukraine

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement continue to make arrests for those involved in sideshows and related activity in Kansas City.

Last weekend police caught suspects running red lights, driving the wrong way into oncoming traffic and performing stunts on Kansas City streets, according to a social media report from the KCPD. "We're cracking down on this illegal behavior."

On Saturday night, police arrested nine suspects, towed eight vehicles, including ATVs on city streets, recovered a&nbsp;stolen vehicle, issued 51 citations, and broke up two sideshows in the making. This resulted from officers assigned to stop lawlessness on the streets and those in the Entertainment District plan.&nbsp; The Clay County Sheriff's Deputies, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Johnson County Sheriff's Deputies and Independence Police assisted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754839853546.jpeg" alt="Photos KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photos KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement continue to make arrests for those involved in sideshows and related activity in Kansas City.Last weekend police caught suspects running red lights, driving the wrong way into oncoming traffic and performing stunts on Kansas City streets, according to a social media report from the KCPD. "We're cracking down on this illegal behavior."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754839804647.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday night, police arrested nine suspects, towed eight vehicles, including ATVs on city streets, recovered a&nbsp;stolen vehicle, issued 51 citations, and broke up two sideshows in the making. This resulted from officers assigned to stop lawlessness on the streets and those in the Entertainment District plan.&nbsp; The Clay County Sheriff's Deputies, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Johnson County Sheriff's Deputies and Independence Police assisted.

KCPD makes more arrests for sideshows

MEADE COUNTY —&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe a heat burst spread a wildfire in in southwest Kansas last weekend at&nbsp;Meade State Park.

On August 9, Kansas Forest Service personnel were requested to respond to a wildfire on Meade State Park,&nbsp;southwest of the city of Meade, according to a social media report from the Kansas Forest Service.

The wildfire started around 1:00 am and spread very actively due to a "Heat Burst." A heat burst is a rare meteorological phenomenon characterized by a sudden, localized increase in air temperature typically occurring during the late evening or nighttime hours. 

It is often associated with decaying thunderstorms and is marked by strong gusty winds and a sharp drop in humidity. Heat bursts can cause extreme temperature increases, which was the case in Meade County as temperatures at 12:00 am exceeded 100°F, with wind gusts exceeding 60mph.

Kansas Forest Service personnel worked alongside local responders to contain the wildfire. Western Kansas' vegetation continues to dry out due to a lack of rainfall and windy conditions. Please remain vigilant during outdoor activities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755027014316.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MEADE COUNTY —&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe a heat burst spread a wildfire in in southwest Kansas last weekend at&nbsp;Meade State Park.On August 9, Kansas Forest Service personnel were requested to respond to a wildfire on Meade State Park,&nbsp;southwest of the city of Meade, according to a social media report from the Kansas Forest Service.The wildfire started around 1:00 am and spread very actively due to a "Heat Burst." A heat burst is a rare meteorological phenomenon characterized by a sudden, localized increase in air temperature typically occurring during the late evening or nighttime hours. It is often associated with decaying thunderstorms and is marked by strong gusty winds and a sharp drop in humidity. Heat bursts can cause extreme temperature increases, which was the case in Meade County as temperatures at 12:00 am exceeded 100°F, with wind gusts exceeding 60mph.Kansas Forest Service personnel worked alongside local responders to contain the wildfire. Western Kansas' vegetation continues to dry out due to a lack of rainfall and windy conditions. Please remain vigilant during outdoor activities.&nbsp;

Forest Service: Heat burst spread Kansas wildfire

The United States announced Tuesday that it has taken into custody 26 fugitives from Mexico facing a range of federal and state criminal charges from around the country, including charges relating to drug-trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, illegal use of firearms, human smuggling, money laundering, the murder of a sheriffs’ deputy, and other crimes, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Among the fugitives taken into U.S. custody today are leaders and managers of dangerous drug cartels, such as those designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), and Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas). These fugitives are collectively alleged to have imported into the United States tonnage quantities of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin.

“Today is the latest example of the Trump administration's historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores -- under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country. We are grateful to Mexico’s National Security team for their collaboration in this matter.” &nbsp;

Included in today’s transfer are the following fugitives:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755050571697.png" alt="Image U.S. Dept. of Treasury" />
 <figcaption>Image U.S. Dept. of Treasury</figcaption>
 </figure>The United States announced Tuesday that it has taken into custody 26 fugitives from Mexico facing a range of federal and state criminal charges from around the country, including charges relating to drug-trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, illegal use of firearms, human smuggling, money laundering, the murder of a sheriffs’ deputy, and other crimes, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of Justice.Among the fugitives taken into U.S. custody today are leaders and managers of dangerous drug cartels, such as those designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), and Cártel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas). These fugitives are collectively alleged to have imported into the United States tonnage quantities of dangerous drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin.“Today is the latest example of the Trump administration's historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “These 26 men have all played a role in bringing violence and drugs to American shores -- under this Department of Justice, they will face severe consequences for their crimes against this country. We are grateful to Mexico’s National Security team for their collaboration in this matter.” &nbsp;Included in today’s transfer are the following fugitives:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fopa%2Fpr%2Fco-founder-los-cuinis-drug-cartel-sentenced-30-years-prison-high-ranking-cartel-de-jalisco%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000198a09d54ef-d2daa78c-60c7-4299-abbb-727e7a0412e1-000000/jnChD6bGv-P_wgqzI8ZG30wwB3ShKzdKOebhJ_UhW5g=418" target="_blank">Abigael Gonzalez Valencia</a>&nbsp;also known as “Cuini” – is one of the leaders of Los Cuinis, a major Mexican drug cartel responsible for trafficking multiple tons of cocaine from South America, through Mexico, into the United States.</li><li>Kevin Gil Acosta and Martin Zazueta Perez – According to court documents, Gil Acosta and Zazueta Perez are leaders of the security apparatus for the&nbsp;Chapitos, a powerful faction of the Sinaloa Cartel that engages in prolific fentanyl trafficking. Both men have led&nbsp;sicarios&nbsp;armed with military-style weapons – such as AK-47s, M-16s, AR-15s, and grenade launchers – in attacks on Mexican government and military officials. Gil Acosta leads&nbsp;sicarios&nbsp;tasked with protecting fentanyl labs and distribution routes while Zazueta Perez provides personal security for a leader of the&nbsp;Chapitos.</li><li><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Farchives%2Fopa%2Fpr%2Falleged-transnational-human-smuggler-indicted-and-sanctioned-united-states-and-arrested%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000198a09d54ef-d2daa78c-60c7-4299-abbb-727e7a0412e1-000000/3Y2GsatlwL2_UTzpxQcoEQEJZQw0WNXy9jkTG_SsWUM=418" target="_blank">Abdul Karim Conteh</a>, a national of Sierra Leone, allegedly led a human smuggling organization that smuggled thousands of migrants to the United States through Mexico. These smuggled migrants originated from countries around the world, including Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Somalia, Cameroon, Senegal, Mauritania, Ethiopia, Egypt, and others. The migrants paid smuggling fees, often tens of thousands of dollars. Conteh allegedly oversaw the migrants’ unlawful entry into the United States by various surreptitious and unlawful means, including the use of ladders and tunnels.</li><li><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fd9%2Fpress-releases%2Fattachments%2F2023%2F04%2F14%2Fu.s._v._garcia_corrales_et_al_indictment_1.pdf%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000198a09d54ef-d2daa78c-60c7-4299-abbb-727e7a0412e1-000000/iZnZuVxRpjiifISSBnesYS6K3HS2hYsYHPpfMW7I29Y=418" target="_blank">Leobardo Garcia Corrales</a>&nbsp;is believed to be an important figure in the Sinaloa Cartel who has trafficked kilogram quantities of fentanyl into the United States, sometimes in exchange for military-grade weapons such as AK-47s, grenades, and submachine guns. He claims to be close friends and associates with Joaquín Archivaldo Guzmán Loera, aka “El Chapo.”</li><li><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.justice.gov%2Fusao-de%2Fpr%2Fmexican-national-charged-holding-american-citizen-hostage-and-drug-trafficking%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01000198a09d54ef-d2daa78c-60c7-4299-abbb-727e7a0412e1-000000/9tY8HP9jilOPS9CH8d4M2nsbEn7AunE8b7-f7aZoxVk=418" target="_blank">Luis Raul Castro Valenzuela</a>&nbsp;also known as “Chacho,” a member of the Sinaloa Cartel, has been charged with kidnapping and holding hostage a U.S. citizen.</li><li>Juan Carlos Felix Gastelum also known as “El Chavo Félix,” a major Sinaloa Cartel cell leader and son-in-law to former Sinaloa Cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada,&nbsp;is alleged &nbsp;to be a principal operator of the Sinaloa Cartel’s clandestine methamphetamine manufacturing laboratories located in the Sierra Madre Mountains of Sinaloa and Durango, Mexico involved in the manufacturing and distribution of large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico into the United States.</li><li>Roberto Salazar is wanted in connection with the murder of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Juan Escalante, who was killed in 2008 when he was leaving his home during the early morning hours.</li><li>Pablo Edwin Huerta Nuno, also known as “Flaquito,” is a violent Tijuana Plaza boss who has operated with impunity during the last 15 years. Huerta-Nuno is alleged to have supplied thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine to distributors and cells located throughout San Diego and Los Angeles. And in return, millions of dollars in narcotics proceeds were delivered to him and his organization via shipments of bulk cash from San Diego into Tijuana.</li>
 </ul>

Fugitives wanted for violent crimes returned to the U.S. from Mexico 

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City area man faces charges for that fatal shooting that occurred in northeast Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson .

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2701/Arel-Dawkins-RED-COMPLAINT-AD">Arel Dawkins</a>, 36,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2700/Arel-Dawkins-RED-PC-AD">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on Morrell Avenue in the northeast neighborhood in Kansas City on August 6 and located the victim on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp;

Based on eyewitness testimony and surveillance footage, Dawkins ran over the victim with his Ford F-150, then got out and shot her multiple times at close range while she was on the ground after premeditation. He walked toward the street, turned back, and fired at her again. After reloading his weapon, he returned and shot her again before driving away.&nbsp;

Dawkins' cell phone also pinged in the area of the crime scene just prior to the homicide.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755028242050.png" alt="Dawkins photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Dawkins photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City area man faces charges for that fatal shooting that occurred in northeast Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson .<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2701/Arel-Dawkins-RED-COMPLAINT-AD">Arel Dawkins</a>, 36,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2700/Arel-Dawkins-RED-PC-AD">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on Morrell Avenue in the northeast neighborhood in Kansas City on August 6 and located the victim on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp;Based on eyewitness testimony and surveillance footage, Dawkins ran over the victim with his Ford F-150, then got out and shot her multiple times at close range while she was on the ground after premeditation. He walked toward the street, turned back, and fired at her again. After reloading his weapon, he returned and shot her again before driving away.&nbsp;Dawkins' cell phone also pinged in the area of the crime scene just prior to the homicide.&nbsp;

Court records: Suspect ran over victim with pickup and shot her

SHAWNEE COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas Sex Offender on drug allegations after a traffic stop

Just before 3:30p.m., August 8, a K-9 Unit with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a black 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck in the 3400 block of NW Frontage Road for an improper turn, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the investigation, the deputy found illegal narcotics.

Michael R. Anderson, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia

Anderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016 after ten convictions for sexual exploitation of a child in Ellis County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755033467479.png" alt="Anderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016." />
 <figcaption>Anderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas Sex Offender on drug allegations after a traffic stopJust before 3:30p.m., August 8, a K-9 Unit with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a black 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck in the 3400 block of NW Frontage Road for an improper turn, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the investigation, the deputy found illegal narcotics.Michael R. Anderson, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernaliaAnderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016 after ten convictions for sexual exploitation of a child in Ellis County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. sex offender jailed on drug allegations after traffic stop

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750268276007.png" alt="Image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Breaking News 🚨UFC has a new home in 2026 only on <a href="https://twitter.com/paramountplus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paramountplus</a> <a href="https://t.co/FUQjemPnBS">pic.twitter.com/FUQjemPnBS</a>&mdash; danawhite (@danawhite) <a href="https://twitter.com/danawhite/status/1954876574404366488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“We’re going to have a UFC fight, think of this, on the grounds of the White House. We have a lot of land there. We&#39;re gonna build a little - Dana&#39;s gonna do it... Championship fight, full fight, like 20, 25,000 people. And we&#39;re going to do that as part of A250&quot; - Trump in Iowa <a href="https://t.co/5Dkam2IFWU">pic.twitter.com/5Dkam2IFWU</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1941078076903043230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

UFC fight at the White House is part of deal with Paramount

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry – joined Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) in introducing the&nbsp;Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Improvement and Flexibility Act.

The legislation would bolster CRP by improving access to grazing, maximizing enrollment options for producers and expediting emergency haying in response to drought and other weather-related disaster events.

“Equipping farmers and ranchers with improved access to CRP resources is crucial to the sustainability of the agricultural economy in Kansas,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“This bipartisan legislation grants greater flexibility for producers in Kansas and across the country to improve their economic stability while conserving our nation’s farmland, wildlife habitats and water supply for future generations to benefit from and enjoy.”

“Ensuring that CRP continues to be an effective option for producers and landowners is critical to South Dakota’s agriculture industry,”&nbsp;said Sen. Thune. “As a longtime supporter of CRP, I’m proud to lead this commonsense legislation that would help advance the multiple-use benefits of this conservation program, including wildlife habitat and livestock forage potential.”

“The Conservation Reserve Program helps equip our farmers with the tools to conserve and improve soil, water quality, and wildlife habitat,”&nbsp;said Sen. Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation makes commonsense improvements to CRP that will strengthen conservation practices and landowner enrollment in this vital program.”

“The Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) has long advocated for additional grazing opportunities on CRP acres,”&nbsp;said Matt Teagarden, CEO of Kansas Livestock Association.&nbsp;“Grazing benefits the native grass species, advancing the conservation goals of the program. We appreciate Senator Moran's leadership in improving CRP for producers and the land.”

“The Conservation Reserve Program is one of our nation’s most effective tools for improving wildlife habitat, water quality, and soil health on private lands, and is a vital part of the farm safety net,”&nbsp;said Andrew Schmidt, Director of Government Affairs for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.

“The&nbsp;CRP Improvement and Flexibility Act&nbsp;will make this critical program work better for farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and wildlife. PF and QF are grateful to Majority Leader Thune, Ranking Member Klobuchar, and Sens. Moran and Smith for their continued leadership in strengthening CRP and ensuring it remains a cornerstone of private lands conservation.”

“The Conservation Reserve Program is an important, incentive-based program that provides flexibility for farmers and ranchers to implement voluntary conservation practices on their land,”&nbsp;said Mike Bulk, Ducks Unlimited Kansas state policy chair. “We thank Senators Moran, Thune, Klobuchar, and Smith for their leadership in enhancing CRP to ensure landowners can continue to get the most out of this historically successful program in Kansas and across the U.S.”The&nbsp;CRP Improvement and Flexibility Act&nbsp;would:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754944135152.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry – joined Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) in introducing the&nbsp;Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Improvement and Flexibility Act. The legislation would bolster CRP by improving access to grazing, maximizing enrollment options for producers and expediting emergency haying in response to drought and other weather-related disaster events.“Equipping farmers and ranchers with improved access to CRP resources is crucial to the sustainability of the agricultural economy in Kansas,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“This bipartisan legislation grants greater flexibility for producers in Kansas and across the country to improve their economic stability while conserving our nation’s farmland, wildlife habitats and water supply for future generations to benefit from and enjoy.”“Ensuring that CRP continues to be an effective option for producers and landowners is critical to South Dakota’s agriculture industry,”&nbsp;said Sen. Thune. “As a longtime supporter of CRP, I’m proud to lead this commonsense legislation that would help advance the multiple-use benefits of this conservation program, including wildlife habitat and livestock forage potential.”“The Conservation Reserve Program helps equip our farmers with the tools to conserve and improve soil, water quality, and wildlife habitat,”&nbsp;said Sen. Klobuchar. “This bipartisan legislation makes commonsense improvements to CRP that will strengthen conservation practices and landowner enrollment in this vital program.”“The Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) has long advocated for additional grazing opportunities on CRP acres,”&nbsp;said Matt Teagarden, CEO of Kansas Livestock Association.&nbsp;“Grazing benefits the native grass species, advancing the conservation goals of the program. We appreciate Senator Moran's leadership in improving CRP for producers and the land.”“The Conservation Reserve Program is one of our nation’s most effective tools for improving wildlife habitat, water quality, and soil health on private lands, and is a vital part of the farm safety net,”&nbsp;said Andrew Schmidt, Director of Government Affairs for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “The&nbsp;CRP Improvement and Flexibility Act&nbsp;will make this critical program work better for farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and wildlife. PF and QF are grateful to Majority Leader Thune, Ranking Member Klobuchar, and Sens. Moran and Smith for their continued leadership in strengthening CRP and ensuring it remains a cornerstone of private lands conservation.”“The Conservation Reserve Program is an important, incentive-based program that provides flexibility for farmers and ranchers to implement voluntary conservation practices on their land,”&nbsp;said Mike Bulk, Ducks Unlimited Kansas state policy chair. “We thank Senators Moran, Thune, Klobuchar, and Smith for their leadership in enhancing CRP to ensure landowners can continue to get the most out of this historically successful program in Kansas and across the U.S.”The&nbsp;CRP Improvement and Flexibility Act&nbsp;would:<ul>
 <li>Make CRP grazing a more attractive option by providing cost-share for the establishment of grazing infrastructure – including fencing and water distribution – on all CRP practices and contracts if grazing is included in the approved conservation plan.</li><li>Increase the CRP annual payment limitation from $50,000, which was established in 1985, to $125,000 to account for inflation and rising land values and provide landowners with more CRP enrollment options to ensure resources are appropriately conserved.</li><li>Reinstate mid-contract management cost-share payments for activities that are not related to haying or grazing.</li><li>Permanently establish the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement practice under Continuous CRP.</li><li>Create flexibility for producers by allowing emergency haying on CRP acres when certain conditions are met and in consultation with state technical committees.</li>
 </ul>