The Powerball® jackpot has received a boost ahead of the next billion-dollar drawing Saturday night,&nbsp;according to the Multi-State Lottery Association. Game leaders increased the jackpot estimate this morning from $1.70 billion to an astonishing $1.80 billion. The jackpot has an estimated cash value of $826.4 million.

Saturday’s Powerball jackpot now ranks as the second-largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history, only behind the world record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot won in California on Nov. 7, 2022.

“Excitement is building as players look forward to tomorrow night’s drawing for this historic jackpot,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO. “We encourage everyone to play responsibly and take pride in knowing that every $2 ticket also helps support good causes in their community.”

Saturday’s Powerball drawing will be broadcast live at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. The Powerball drawing will also be live streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">Powerball.com</a>.

If a player wins the Powerball jackpot, they will have the choice between an annuitized prize estimated at $1.80 billion or a lump sum payment estimated at $826.4 million. Both prize options are before taxes. If the winner selects the annuity option, they will receive one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5-percent each year.

Saturday’s drawing will be the 42nd drawing since the Powerball jackpot was previously won in California on May 31, 2025. The record streak has already produced 101 winning tickets worth $1 million or more, and more than a thousand winning tickets worth $50,000 or more.

Powerball® tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Since its first drawing in 1992, the Powerball game has helped generate more than $36 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries.

Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">Powerball.com</a>.

The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 24.9. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.

The Powerball® jackpot has received a boost ahead of the next billion-dollar drawing Saturday night,&nbsp;according to the Multi-State Lottery Association. Game leaders increased the jackpot estimate this morning from $1.70 billion to an astonishing $1.80 billion. The jackpot has an estimated cash value of $826.4 million.Saturday’s Powerball jackpot now ranks as the second-largest jackpot in U.S. lottery history, only behind the world record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot won in California on Nov. 7, 2022.“Excitement is building as players look forward to tomorrow night’s drawing for this historic jackpot,” said Matt Strawn, Powerball Product Group Chair and Iowa Lottery CEO. “We encourage everyone to play responsibly and take pride in knowing that every $2 ticket also helps support good causes in their community.”Saturday’s Powerball drawing will be broadcast live at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. The Powerball drawing will also be live streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">Powerball.com</a>.If a player wins the Powerball jackpot, they will have the choice between an annuitized prize estimated at $1.80 billion or a lump sum payment estimated at $826.4 million. Both prize options are before taxes. If the winner selects the annuity option, they will receive one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5-percent each year.Saturday’s drawing will be the 42nd drawing since the Powerball jackpot was previously won in California on May 31, 2025. The record streak has already produced 101 winning tickets worth $1 million or more, and more than a thousand winning tickets worth $50,000 or more.Powerball® tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Since its first drawing in 1992, the Powerball game has helped generate more than $36 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries.Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">Powerball.com</a>.The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 24.9. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.Top Ten Powerball® Jackpots<ol>
 <li>$2.04 Billion – Nov. 7, 2022 – CA</li><li>$1.80 Billion (estimated) – Sept. 6, 2025</li><li>$1.765 Billion – Oct. 11, 2023 - CA</li><li>$1.586 Billion – Jan. 13, 2016 – CA, FL, TN</li><li>$1.326 Billion – April 6, 2024 – OR</li><li>$1.08 Billion – July 19, 2023 – CA</li><li>$842.4 Million – January 1, 2024 – MI</li><li>$768.4 Million – March 27, 2019 – WI</li><li>$758.7 Million – Aug. 23, 2017 – MA</li><li>$754.6 Million – Feb. 6, 2023 - WA</li>
 </ol>

Saturday's Powerball is the 2nd largest in U.S. lottery history

Catch all of the live action of Hays High and TMP Marian sports this school year on <a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/">HaysPost.com</a>.

To purchase your season-long or single game pass, go to <a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/">HaysPost.com</a> today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755620673007.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle MediaCatch all of the live action of Hays High and TMP Marian sports this school year on <a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/">HaysPost.com</a>. To purchase your season-long or single game pass, go to <a href="https://team1sports.com/eagleradio/">HaysPost.com</a> today.

Purchase your pass for live action Hays High, TMP sports on Hays Post this season 

TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court is accepting public comment on proposed new&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy96fSfekhiPBDIIsEDZ0eA8">Rule 1405</a><a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy_0MUXuVpblwSZGgpxFAhTc"></a>&nbsp;which will create a standing Rural Justice Initiative Committee.

When adopted, the rule will establish the framework for a standing committee, including members and terms. The standing committee will be responsible for implementing recommendations made in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy1j_erLabeGm-S--xIiaqws">Rural Justice Initiative Final Report</a>, monitor the effectiveness of those efforts, and identify ways to improve access to legal services in rural Kansas.

The standing committee would succeed a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy46BhJg6rTsT37T-QVdxvLw">Rural Justice Initiative Committee</a>&nbsp;created in 2022 to examine unmet legal needs in rural Kansas related to a shrinking number of attorneys living and working in rural areas.

A number of area attorneys, judges and state legislators served on the original committee.

That committee produced the final report with 10 recommendations that range from attorney recruitment projects to best practices to meet legal needs across Kansas.

The court will accept written comment by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:publiccomments@kscourts.gov">publiccomments@kscourts.gov</a>&nbsp;until 5 p.m. Thursday, October 2. The subject line must read “Rule 1405.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756917880068.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Judicial AdministrationTOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court is accepting public comment on proposed new&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy96fSfekhiPBDIIsEDZ0eA8">Rule 1405</a><a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy_0MUXuVpblwSZGgpxFAhTc"></a>&nbsp;which will create a standing Rural Justice Initiative Committee.When adopted, the rule will establish the framework for a standing committee, including members and terms. The standing committee will be responsible for implementing recommendations made in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy1j_erLabeGm-S--xIiaqws">Rural Justice Initiative Final Report</a>, monitor the effectiveness of those efforts, and identify ways to improve access to legal services in rural Kansas.The standing committee would succeed a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/Sgta4xfGbgmfRcXSa0Fqy46BhJg6rTsT37T-QVdxvLw">Rural Justice Initiative Committee</a>&nbsp;created in 2022 to examine unmet legal needs in rural Kansas related to a shrinking number of attorneys living and working in rural areas.A number of area attorneys, judges and state legislators served on the original committee.That committee produced the final report with 10 recommendations that range from attorney recruitment projects to best practices to meet legal needs across Kansas.The court will accept written comment by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:publiccomments@kscourts.gov">publiccomments@kscourts.gov</a>&nbsp;until 5 p.m. Thursday, October 2. The subject line must read “Rule 1405.”

Rural Justice Initiative Committee to become standing committee; public comment sought

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WYANDOTTE COUNTY—A Kansas City, Kansas police officer injured after being struck by a vehicle involved in a police pursuit on Tuesday morning has died, according to a statement from the Kansas Association of Chief's of Police.

Just after midnight, police were called to a report of gunshots in the area of Campus Boulevard and State Avenue, according to a media release.

First responders found a vehicle possibly involved with gunfire. Officers reported the suspect was armed with a handgun.

When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver fled and a pursuit ensued.&nbsp; As officers deployed stop sticks, the driver instead swerved and struck an officer.&nbsp; The officer was hospitalized with 'life-threatening' injuries and later died.&nbsp;The suspect was eventually taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the officer or the suspect driver.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and KHP are in charge of the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756216912404.png" alt="Law enforcement investigators on the scene early Tuesday photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement investigators on the scene early Tuesday photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY—A Kansas City, Kansas police officer injured after being struck by a vehicle involved in a police pursuit on Tuesday morning has died, according to a statement from the Kansas Association of Chief's of Police.Just after midnight, police were called to a report of gunshots in the area of Campus Boulevard and State Avenue, according to a media release.First responders found a vehicle possibly involved with gunfire. Officers reported the suspect was armed with a handgun.When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver fled and a pursuit ensued.&nbsp; As officers deployed stop sticks, the driver instead swerved and struck an officer.&nbsp; The officer was hospitalized with 'life-threatening' injuries and later died.&nbsp;The suspect was eventually taken into custody after he crashed his vehicle.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the officer or the suspect driver.The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and KHP are in charge of the investigation.

Kansas officer struck by vehicle during police pursuit has died

WAKEENEY — Neither the summer heat nor the American Sprint Car Series’ (ASCS) best regional racers could extinguish Sam Hafertepe Jr.’s hot streak Friday night.

The five-time Series champion from Sunnyvale, TX, garnered his ninth Feature win of the season —&nbsp;sixth in the past seven events — with the national 360 Sprint Car circuit, making the pass for the lead on polesitter Jake Bubak after the halfway point and holding off a final-lap challenge to bank his 86th career Series win and first-ever at WaKeeney Speedway.

A sample of Kansas and Colorado’s regional competition — multiple of whom compete with the ASCS Western Plains Region and ASCS Northern Plains Region — joined the roster for the co-sanctioned event and challenged the national Series regulars throughout the night. Bubak — a native of Arveda, CO — led the charge, turning the fastest lap in his Qualifying group, which ranked second overall behind only Hafertepe’s fastest lap.

When Bubak took the green flag from the pole of the Feature after a win in the Honest Abe Roofing Dash, Hafertepe advanced to the runner-up spot on the opening lap and began the chase at the head of the field.

“I just knew it was gonna be hard to do anything with him in open track,” Hafertepe said. “I knew it was gonna be a tough thing to do. Jake’s a really good racecar driver; he’s a really calculated racecar driver, so I knew I wasn’t going to be able to do anything with him early.”

The two drivers reached the tail of the field on Lap 8 and began working their way through lapped traffic; Bubak maintaining a formidable pace out front as the halfway point neared. But as soon as they crossed the midpoint of the race, Hafertepe made his bid for the lead.

As Bubak crossed the start/finish line to complete Lap 13, Hafertepe rode a wave of speed off Turn 4 and drove deep into Turn 1, pulling up alongside the No. 27B in Turn 2 and making the pass down the backstretch.

“We were better than him in (Turns) 3 and 4, so I got a really good run off of 4 and I thought ‘Man, if I can catch just some of the rubber off the exit, if I get beside him, maybe I can drag him off the corner,’” Hafertepe said. “I got beside him, we both got in the rubber off the exit of 2, and I just got a little better drive off of 2.”

“I thought I needed to conserve my tires, and I just slowed my pace down too far,” Bubak said. “Sam was able to charge and get by us. His pace was much quicker than mine.”

From there, it was all the No. 15H out front. Hafertepe grew his lead to nearly two seconds as he pushed his way through more lapped traffic in the final laps.

Bubak did not go away completely, however. With two laps left, he had trimmed his gap to Hafertepe down to one second, and then to slightly over 0.3 seconds as they took the white flag. With a burst of momentum down the frontstretch, Bubak drove hard into Turn 1 on the outside lane in an attempt to go around Hafertepe and steal the lead back but could not hold the line as Hafertepe drove off with the victory down the backstretch.

“I didn’t to open the bottom up for [Bubak] to dive in there,” Hafertepe said. “I knew we were getting slowed up with the lapped cars, but I didn’t want to press anything. If he was gonna win it, he was gonna have to earn it on the outside, and I knew that’d be probably pretty tough for him to do.”

“Once [Hafertepe] went by, I kinda maintained pace with him and still felt like I saved enough tire to give it one last shot there at the end, but as long as he stayed in the rubber, there was nothing I was gonna do to get by him,” Bubak said.

In the end, Bubak came across the finish line second in what appeared to be his first national ASCS podium of the season. However, he encountered a technical infraction post-race, coming up short of the 1,500-pound minimum weight requirement at the scales, therefore disqualifying him from the event.

That moved third-place finisher Kyler Johnson up into the runner-up position. The native of nearby Quinter, KS, held his spot up front the entire race and marked a new career-best finish for him with the national Series.

Arkansas native Brady Baker was promoted to third place, while Terry Easum and Matt Covington were officially credited with fourth and fifth-place finishes, respectively.

The American Sprint Car Series next races El Paso County Raceway in Calhan, CO, on Saturday, Aug. 16. Tickets for the event will be sold at the track on race day.

If you can’t be there, stream every lap live on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.G68zI1v7NZVdO5D2Z-2BAYWMTXYKwndrUlzXCnl6PWppI-3DVfH8_ai5o7a2ztpywqx-2FSZEU1mC0k3plQ2hEmdQsqZCH-2FtSbSauz5CcYpHe7spQkrAj9oKd2u9pfUdXZFI4OrBR4UG-2BRsvWFGVE5edc-2FmLQgsKE-2Bjz0bdoYU-2BC7AIOz2hAo8a5q5A75Syr2KL8a9k0orZWIN1DVYK-2BffUeyTRneGTyDtf1sNml8C6Qze-2BUWlFZPKddP3r-2BPOM8qwPJNHc9MfIp4ojNZS3bC0wsGiwpRwoH06nYJ-2B8BXNC-2B1EUnx1lTYXF22VyWY97nS6vxKp4gfZHLEhVhpCHfICSLayp4HrNFVRXsRfGrbMnS0hqDqMtDoDPtJnPEvwOvYHZM9U5Xx7QlPPB-2BHT-2F6e2l4Hb7ymMmqGjexmJ9jpNB-2FDVO4t220xmptJ5dOXD-2FHUwWe-2BjEG5bIBA-3D-3D">DIRTVision</a>.

Feature (25 Laps): 1. 15H-Sam Hafertepe Jr[3]; 2. 45X-Kyler Johnson[2]; 3. 71-Brady Baker[5]; 4. 88-Terry Easum[11]; 5. 95-Matt Covington[13]; 6. 2J-Zach Blurton[9]; 7. 36-Jason Martin[12]; 8. 52-Blake Hahn[6]; 9. 1X-Bryant Wiedeman[10]; 10. 10-Landon Britt[15]; 11. 88C-Brogan Carder[21]; 12. 88K-Jordan Knight[17]; 13. 16G-Austyn Gossel[7]; 14. 88R-Ryder Laplante[16]; 15. 6G-Bryan Gossel[19]; 16. 2B-Garrett Benson[4]; 17. 91-Jeff Stasa[23]; 18. 72-Ray Seemann[22]; 19. 74-Zack Merritt[24]; 20. 77-Cole MacEwen[18]; 21. 5D-Adam Trimble[14]; 22. 71T-Christopher Townsend[20]; 23. 10C-Jeremy Campbell[8]; 24. (DQ) 27B-Jake Bubak[1]

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.mB7pKm66TiXpNF-2B3qCAGf4TC41NKxLxNZ3rGnB-2FhfSdbH1lICDXLkTVe5HZ3a-2F7TcvCM_ai5o7a2ztpywqx-2FSZEU1mC0k3plQ2hEmdQsqZCH-2FtSbSauz5CcYpHe7spQkrAj9oKd2u9pfUdXZFI4OrBR4UG-2BRsvWFGVE5edc-2FmLQgsKE-2Bjz0bdoYU-2BC7AIOz2hAo8a5q5A75Syr2KL8a9k0orZWIN1DVYK-2BffUeyTRneGTyDtf1sNml8C6Qze-2BUWlFZPKddP3r-2BPOM8qwPJNHc9MfIpzkhoPZ6OEhX3avtIBP9HBpmahFMw9lOSStMZx617uAq8SM9eoIw0cdRWd94pRJUL00ks9m-2FSql0MlialiHX8nRMuNAJPgMklKk5KRK19sZPuHTQ8EI33xlBwCbc5aaLmofiGQ73rHd3BrjMcb0mjozflO1XnBSJhbt2-2FOaymIFoParvFCtUAOfPjC0oDiBx5A-3D-3D">American Sprint Car Series</a>&nbsp;was founded in 1992, comprised of regional races primarily in the Southwest region. It then went national in 1993 and has become the premier 360 Sprint Car Series in the country, while still sanctioning nine regional series that include 360 Sprint Cars, 410 Sprint Cars and Non-Wing Sprint Cars. ASCS is supported by DIRTVision, Hoosier Racing Tire, Honest Abe Roofing, Intercomp, Racing Electronics, Real American Beer (Official Beer), Smith Titanium, SIS Insurance, WEDG High Performance Karts, and VP Racing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755627216142.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Sam Hafertepe, Jr. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Sam Hafertepe, Jr. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>American Sprint Car SeriesWAKEENEY — Neither the summer heat nor the American Sprint Car Series’ (ASCS) best regional racers could extinguish Sam Hafertepe Jr.’s hot streak Friday night.The five-time Series champion from Sunnyvale, TX, garnered his ninth Feature win of the season —&nbsp;sixth in the past seven events — with the national 360 Sprint Car circuit, making the pass for the lead on polesitter Jake Bubak after the halfway point and holding off a final-lap challenge to bank his 86th career Series win and first-ever at WaKeeney Speedway.A sample of Kansas and Colorado’s regional competition — multiple of whom compete with the ASCS Western Plains Region and ASCS Northern Plains Region — joined the roster for the co-sanctioned event and challenged the national Series regulars throughout the night. Bubak — a native of Arveda, CO — led the charge, turning the fastest lap in his Qualifying group, which ranked second overall behind only Hafertepe’s fastest lap.When Bubak took the green flag from the pole of the Feature after a win in the Honest Abe Roofing Dash, Hafertepe advanced to the runner-up spot on the opening lap and began the chase at the head of the field.“I just knew it was gonna be hard to do anything with him in open track,” Hafertepe said. “I knew it was gonna be a tough thing to do. Jake’s a really good racecar driver; he’s a really calculated racecar driver, so I knew I wasn’t going to be able to do anything with him early.”The two drivers reached the tail of the field on Lap 8 and began working their way through lapped traffic; Bubak maintaining a formidable pace out front as the halfway point neared. But as soon as they crossed the midpoint of the race, Hafertepe made his bid for the lead.As Bubak crossed the start/finish line to complete Lap 13, Hafertepe rode a wave of speed off Turn 4 and drove deep into Turn 1, pulling up alongside the No. 27B in Turn 2 and making the pass down the backstretch.“We were better than him in (Turns) 3 and 4, so I got a really good run off of 4 and I thought ‘Man, if I can catch just some of the rubber off the exit, if I get beside him, maybe I can drag him off the corner,’” Hafertepe said. “I got beside him, we both got in the rubber off the exit of 2, and I just got a little better drive off of 2.”“I thought I needed to conserve my tires, and I just slowed my pace down too far,” Bubak said. “Sam was able to charge and get by us. His pace was much quicker than mine.”From there, it was all the No. 15H out front. Hafertepe grew his lead to nearly two seconds as he pushed his way through more lapped traffic in the final laps.Bubak did not go away completely, however. With two laps left, he had trimmed his gap to Hafertepe down to one second, and then to slightly over 0.3 seconds as they took the white flag. With a burst of momentum down the frontstretch, Bubak drove hard into Turn 1 on the outside lane in an attempt to go around Hafertepe and steal the lead back but could not hold the line as Hafertepe drove off with the victory down the backstretch.“I didn’t to open the bottom up for [Bubak] to dive in there,” Hafertepe said. “I knew we were getting slowed up with the lapped cars, but I didn’t want to press anything. If he was gonna win it, he was gonna have to earn it on the outside, and I knew that’d be probably pretty tough for him to do.”“Once [Hafertepe] went by, I kinda maintained pace with him and still felt like I saved enough tire to give it one last shot there at the end, but as long as he stayed in the rubber, there was nothing I was gonna do to get by him,” Bubak said.In the end, Bubak came across the finish line second in what appeared to be his first national ASCS podium of the season. However, he encountered a technical infraction post-race, coming up short of the 1,500-pound minimum weight requirement at the scales, therefore disqualifying him from the event.That moved third-place finisher Kyler Johnson up into the runner-up position. The native of nearby Quinter, KS, held his spot up front the entire race and marked a new career-best finish for him with the national Series.Arkansas native Brady Baker was promoted to third place, while Terry Easum and Matt Covington were officially credited with fourth and fifth-place finishes, respectively.UP NEXTThe American Sprint Car Series next races El Paso County Raceway in Calhan, CO, on Saturday, Aug. 16. Tickets for the event will be sold at the track on race day.If you can’t be there, stream every lap live on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.G68zI1v7NZVdO5D2Z-2BAYWMTXYKwndrUlzXCnl6PWppI-3DVfH8_ai5o7a2ztpywqx-2FSZEU1mC0k3plQ2hEmdQsqZCH-2FtSbSauz5CcYpHe7spQkrAj9oKd2u9pfUdXZFI4OrBR4UG-2BRsvWFGVE5edc-2FmLQgsKE-2Bjz0bdoYU-2BC7AIOz2hAo8a5q5A75Syr2KL8a9k0orZWIN1DVYK-2BffUeyTRneGTyDtf1sNml8C6Qze-2BUWlFZPKddP3r-2BPOM8qwPJNHc9MfIp4ojNZS3bC0wsGiwpRwoH06nYJ-2B8BXNC-2B1EUnx1lTYXF22VyWY97nS6vxKp4gfZHLEhVhpCHfICSLayp4HrNFVRXsRfGrbMnS0hqDqMtDoDPtJnPEvwOvYHZM9U5Xx7QlPPB-2BHT-2F6e2l4Hb7ymMmqGjexmJ9jpNB-2FDVO4t220xmptJ5dOXD-2FHUwWe-2BjEG5bIBA-3D-3D">DIRTVision</a>.FEATURE RESULTSFeature (25 Laps): 1. 15H-Sam Hafertepe Jr[3]; 2. 45X-Kyler Johnson[2]; 3. 71-Brady Baker[5]; 4. 88-Terry Easum[11]; 5. 95-Matt Covington[13]; 6. 2J-Zach Blurton[9]; 7. 36-Jason Martin[12]; 8. 52-Blake Hahn[6]; 9. 1X-Bryant Wiedeman[10]; 10. 10-Landon Britt[15]; 11. 88C-Brogan Carder[21]; 12. 88K-Jordan Knight[17]; 13. 16G-Austyn Gossel[7]; 14. 88R-Ryder Laplante[16]; 15. 6G-Bryan Gossel[19]; 16. 2B-Garrett Benson[4]; 17. 91-Jeff Stasa[23]; 18. 72-Ray Seemann[22]; 19. 74-Zack Merritt[24]; 20. 77-Cole MacEwen[18]; 21. 5D-Adam Trimble[14]; 22. 71T-Christopher Townsend[20]; 23. 10C-Jeremy Campbell[8]; 24. (DQ) 27B-Jake Bubak[1]The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.mB7pKm66TiXpNF-2B3qCAGf4TC41NKxLxNZ3rGnB-2FhfSdbH1lICDXLkTVe5HZ3a-2F7TcvCM_ai5o7a2ztpywqx-2FSZEU1mC0k3plQ2hEmdQsqZCH-2FtSbSauz5CcYpHe7spQkrAj9oKd2u9pfUdXZFI4OrBR4UG-2BRsvWFGVE5edc-2FmLQgsKE-2Bjz0bdoYU-2BC7AIOz2hAo8a5q5A75Syr2KL8a9k0orZWIN1DVYK-2BffUeyTRneGTyDtf1sNml8C6Qze-2BUWlFZPKddP3r-2BPOM8qwPJNHc9MfIpzkhoPZ6OEhX3avtIBP9HBpmahFMw9lOSStMZx617uAq8SM9eoIw0cdRWd94pRJUL00ks9m-2FSql0MlialiHX8nRMuNAJPgMklKk5KRK19sZPuHTQ8EI33xlBwCbc5aaLmofiGQ73rHd3BrjMcb0mjozflO1XnBSJhbt2-2FOaymIFoParvFCtUAOfPjC0oDiBx5A-3D-3D">American Sprint Car Series</a>&nbsp;was founded in 1992, comprised of regional races primarily in the Southwest region. It then went national in 1993 and has become the premier 360 Sprint Car Series in the country, while still sanctioning nine regional series that include 360 Sprint Cars, 410 Sprint Cars and Non-Wing Sprint Cars. ASCS is supported by DIRTVision, Hoosier Racing Tire, Honest Abe Roofing, Intercomp, Racing Electronics, Real American Beer (Official Beer), Smith Titanium, SIS Insurance, WEDG High Performance Karts, and VP Racing.

Sam Hafertepe Jr. wins at WaKeeney, bags 9th American Sprint Car Series win of 2025

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police are investigating a fatal crash at Harry and Rock Road in Wichita that killed 14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa and still searching for the driver.

Around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, a nearby Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in the area saw the aftermath of the accident and saw two men running from a black BMW that had crashed. After a short foot pursuit, both men were apprehended.

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

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

Wichita police are following up on leads to locate and arrest Brasher.

Wichita Police does not typically identify suspects who have not been formally charged. In this case, police believe the alleged recklessness of Brasher’s actions make him a danger to the&nbsp; community. Wichita Police Accident Follow-Up Unit (AFU) is continuing to investigate what led to this incident. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for charging.

“This was not an accident. It was a series of reckless choices,” Chief Joe Sullivan said. “When you mix extreme speed with suspected impairment, you turn a vehicle into a weapon. We will pursue full accountability for the death of this young man and his family, and the danger brought to our community.”&nbsp;

Anyone who has information on the location of Gauge Brasher is asked to call 911 immediately. To provide information related to this incident please call AFU investigators at 316-350-3685. To remain anonymous, you can submit a tip through Crime Stoppers at (316)-267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755212957933.png" alt="View of the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>View of the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police are investigating a fatal crash at Harry and Rock Road in Wichita that killed 14-year-old Jackson Nzabonimpa and still searching for the driver.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755212684049.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, a nearby Kansas Highway Patrol trooper in the area saw the aftermath of the accident and saw two men running from a black BMW that had crashed. After a short foot pursuit, both men were apprehended.The preliminary investigation indicates the BMW was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit a power pole and then a utility box. The impact forced the power pole and utility box into Nzabonimpa, who died on scene from his injuries.&nbsp;Witnesses at the intersection identified the 19-year-old suspect Gauge Brasher, who fled as the driver. He is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. The investigation indicated that impairment and speed were likely contributing factors in the collision. Brasher was admitted to the hospital for medical treatment and later left the hospital. The passenger is a 24-year-old man who was detained and later released with no charges.&nbsp;Wichita police are following up on leads to locate and arrest Brasher.Wichita Police does not typically identify suspects who have not been formally charged. In this case, police believe the alleged recklessness of Brasher’s actions make him a danger to the&nbsp; community. Wichita Police Accident Follow-Up Unit (AFU) is continuing to investigate what led to this incident. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for charging.“This was not an accident. It was a series of reckless choices,” Chief Joe Sullivan said. “When you mix extreme speed with suspected impairment, you turn a vehicle into a weapon. We will pursue full accountability for the death of this young man and his family, and the danger brought to our community.”&nbsp;Anyone who has information on the location of Gauge Brasher is asked to call 911 immediately. To provide information related to this incident please call AFU investigators at 316-350-3685. To remain anonymous, you can submit a tip through Crime Stoppers at (316)-267-2111.

Driver in fatal Kan. hit-and-run is still hiding from police

WICHITA&nbsp;– The Wichita Police Department (WPD) requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Wichita man, according to a media release from the KBI.

The whereabouts of 69-year-old Roosevelt Sims are unknown and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.

Sims was first reported missing to the WPD on July 25, 2025, by his wife. He was last seen in Wichita at the Wesley Medical Center, 550 N Hillside St,&nbsp;on August 2, 2025. Sims was seen for minor discomfort and discharged the same day.

Sims is a black male who is 6 feet tall and weighs around 170 pounds. He has long white hair in a ponytail, and was last seen wearing a black ballcap with "chicken chasing" written on the side, a dark blue t-shirt, blue jeans and white shoes. Sims has dementia.

If you see Roosevelt Sims, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754787818389.png" alt="Roosevelt Sims courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Roosevelt Sims courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> - Roosevelt Sims has been found safe in Mississippi with family. <a href="https://t.co/hZaJnLFRef">https://t.co/hZaJnLFRef</a> <a href="https://t.co/c8oWu9LRya">pic.twitter.com/c8oWu9LRya</a>&mdash; Wichita Police (@WichitaPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/WichitaPolice/status/1954617829115736370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>WICHITA&nbsp;– The Wichita Police Department (WPD) requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Wichita man, according to a media release from the KBI.The whereabouts of 69-year-old Roosevelt Sims are unknown and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.Sims was first reported missing to the WPD on July 25, 2025, by his wife. He was last seen in Wichita at the Wesley Medical Center, 550 N Hillside St,&nbsp;on August 2, 2025. Sims was seen for minor discomfort and discharged the same day.Sims is a black male who is 6 feet tall and weighs around 170 pounds. He has long white hair in a ponytail, and was last seen wearing a black ballcap with "chicken chasing" written on the side, a dark blue t-shirt, blue jeans and white shoes. Sims has dementia.If you see Roosevelt Sims, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled missing Kan. man found out of state

WYANDOTTE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, where a Wyandotte County sheriff’s deputy was killed, according to a media release from the agency.

Just before 3:30 p.m., a woman called requesting that police accompany her as she moved out of a residence, due to concerns about her safety. She reported that when friends tried to assist her, a man threatened them with a firearm. At around 3:45 p.m., a deputy from the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office and an officer from the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) arrived at the residence at 2627 S. 30th&nbsp;St.

Preliminary information indicates as they approached the front door, a male subject inside the house fired multiple rounds at the officers. Rounds struck 34-year-old Deputy Elijah Ming. The KCKPD officer was uninjured. Multiple law enforcement officers then responded to the scene.

As responding officers attempted to provide aid to Deputy Ming, gunfire was exchanged between the man, later identified as Shawn Harris, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas, and officers from the KCKPD and the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office. Harris was shot during the exchange of gunfire while he barricaded in the home.

Deputy Ming was transported to the hospital. Despite lifesaving measures, he died of his injuries.

Police negotiated with Harris over the phone until he surrendered and came out of the house, just after 5 p.m. He was taken into custody.

EMS transported Harris to an area hospital where he was treated for his injuries. He is currently in good condition.

This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.

When this investigation concludes, case findings will be presented to the Wyandotte County District Attorney for charging decisions. The investigation is ongoing.

&nbsp;WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Deputy was shot and killed in the line of duty on Saturday, according to a statement from the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department.

On Saturday afternoon, the deputy was shot while responding to a civil standby at a home near S 30th and Shawnee Drive, according to Kansas City, Kansas. Police Chief Karl Oakman.

The deputy was transported to an area hospital with life threatening injuries and died. The suspect was taken into custody after a standoff.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the deputy’s family, loved ones, and the entire Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office, the KCK Fire Department wrote on social media. "We also recognize the swift and courageous actions of our partners at the Kansas City Kansas Police Department and the KCKFD crews who responded to this tragedy with professionalism and compassion.Please keep all those impacted by today’s events in your thoughts — especially the deputy’s family and our brothers and sisters in blue."

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—A Wyandotte County sheriff's deputy was shot after an incident at a home in Kansas City, Kansas.

On Saturday afternoon, the deputy was shot while responding to a civil standby at a home near S 30th and Shawnee Drive, according to Kansas City, Kansas. Police Chief Karl Oakman&nbsp;

The deputy was transported to an area hospital with life threatening injuries. The suspect has been taken into custody and there is no threat to the public. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753579898051.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo by Delmeko Jordan courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo by Delmeko Jordan courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, where a Wyandotte County sheriff’s deputy was killed, according to a media release from the agency.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753612145888.png" alt="Deputy Elijah Ming-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Elijah Ming-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 3:30 p.m., a woman called requesting that police accompany her as she moved out of a residence, due to concerns about her safety. She reported that when friends tried to assist her, a man threatened them with a firearm. At around 3:45 p.m., a deputy from the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office and an officer from the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) arrived at the residence at 2627 S. 30th&nbsp;St.Preliminary information indicates as they approached the front door, a male subject inside the house fired multiple rounds at the officers. Rounds struck 34-year-old Deputy Elijah Ming. The KCKPD officer was uninjured. Multiple law enforcement officers then responded to the scene.As responding officers attempted to provide aid to Deputy Ming, gunfire was exchanged between the man, later identified as Shawn Harris, 38, of Kansas City, Kansas, and officers from the KCKPD and the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office. Harris was shot during the exchange of gunfire while he barricaded in the home.Deputy Ming was transported to the hospital. Despite lifesaving measures, he died of his injuries.Police negotiated with Harris over the phone until he surrendered and came out of the house, just after 5 p.m. He was taken into custody.EMS transported Harris to an area hospital where he was treated for his injuries. He is currently in good condition.This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.When this investigation concludes, case findings will be presented to the Wyandotte County District Attorney for charging decisions. The investigation is ongoing.----------&nbsp;WYANDOTTE COUNTY —A Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Deputy was shot and killed in the line of duty on Saturday, according to a statement from the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department.On Saturday afternoon, the deputy was shot while responding to a civil standby at a home near S 30th and Shawnee Drive, according to Kansas City, Kansas. Police Chief Karl Oakman.The deputy was transported to an area hospital with life threatening injuries and died. The suspect was taken into custody after a standoff."We extend our deepest condolences to the deputy’s family, loved ones, and the entire Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office, the KCK Fire Department wrote on social media. "We also recognize the swift and courageous actions of our partners at the Kansas City Kansas Police Department and the KCKFD crews who responded to this tragedy with professionalism and compassion.Please keep all those impacted by today’s events in your thoughts — especially the deputy’s family and our brothers and sisters in blue."-------------WYANDOTTE COUNTY—A Wyandotte County sheriff's deputy was shot after an incident at a home in Kansas City, Kansas.On Saturday afternoon, the deputy was shot while responding to a civil standby at a home near S 30th and Shawnee Drive, according to Kansas City, Kansas. Police Chief Karl Oakman&nbsp;The deputy was transported to an area hospital with life threatening injuries. The suspect has been taken into custody and there is no threat to the public.

Kansas sheriff's deputy killed in shooting, suspect in custody

WASHINGTON, D.C. — “You’ve won!” are two words likely to get your attention – but sometimes it’s a scammer delivering the news. (Spoiler: you didn’t win anything.) Here’s how to spot and avoid prize scams.

These scams usually look something like this: You get a call or a text saying you’ve won thousands (or even millions) of dollars, a car, a fancy watch — or maybe all three! You don’t remember entering a contest, but free stuff sounds good. But if you reply, they’ll say you need to pay to get the prize — maybe for processing fees or taxes.

 No matter what they say, real sweepstakes have free prizes — any money you send is going to a scammer’s pocket…and, sorry, there is no prize.

Scammers often use names that sound like well-known sweepstakes or companies, like Publishers Clearing House (PCH) — to trick you into trusting them. Here are some things to know to avoid a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/fake-prize-sweepstakes-and-lottery-scams">prize scam</a>.

Spot a prize scam? Tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726244529917.jpg" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionWASHINGTON, D.C. — “You’ve won!” are two words likely to get your attention – but sometimes it’s a scammer delivering the news. (Spoiler: you didn’t win anything.) Here’s how to spot and avoid prize scams.These scams usually look something like this: You get a call or a text saying you’ve won thousands (or even millions) of dollars, a car, a fancy watch — or maybe all three! You don’t remember entering a contest, but free stuff sounds good. But if you reply, they’ll say you need to pay to get the prize — maybe for processing fees or taxes. No matter what they say, real sweepstakes have free prizes — any money you send is going to a scammer’s pocket…and, sorry, there is no prize.Scammers often use names that sound like well-known sweepstakes or companies, like Publishers Clearing House (PCH) — to trick you into trusting them. Here are some things to know to avoid a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/fake-prize-sweepstakes-and-lottery-scams">prize scam</a>.<ul>
 <li>Real prizes are free.&nbsp;If there’s a charge, it’s a scam.&nbsp;Anyone who tells you to pay to get your prize — whether it’s for "taxes," "shipping and handling charges," or “processing fees” — is a scammer. Stop and walk away.</li><li>Scammers tell you to act NOW.&nbsp;They’ll say it’s a limited offer and try to rush you. They don’t want you to have time to think about what’s really happening. So, if anyone tries to hurry you into paying, stop. Remember that’s something scammers do.</li><li>Scammers use names that look like real companies.&nbsp;But no real sweepstakes company will demand money for a prize. If you want to double-check, reach out to the real company. Just make sure to use contact information you found yourself — not contact info from the person who called you.</li>
 </ul>Spot a prize scam? Tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: Don’t pay for a prize (scam)

ABILENE — A major half million dollar track rehabilitation project on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad has been completed, an undertaking that the railroad and its construction contractor are both promising will deliver smoother, safer rides for train crews and passengers.

            Workers from R&amp;S Track Maintenance wrapped up a month long rehabilitation project this week, signaling an end to track issues that have long hampered the railroad’s growth. A staff of eight R&amp;S construction specialists has worked on a busy four day dawn-to-dusk schedule each week, tackling problems that have been beyond the budget and expertise of the A&amp;SV’s volunteer maintenance crew. 

R&amp;S staffers have replaced 1,600 badly aged wooden crossties, tightened rail joints, leveled the track, and sealed the project with 1,000 tons of granite rock ballast. 

These moves have, in effect, added years of life to the railroad’s aged infrastructure and the difference in the quality of A&amp;SV rides has been immediately noticeable.

            Funding for the project came from the Kansas Department of Transportation’s $588,395 Rail Service Improvement Grant Program. The A&amp;SV’s successful application was announced in December. R&amp;S was the successful bidder among a final list of three railroad maintenance companies. The Columbus, Nebraska, based firm has been in business since 1987 and employs a staff of 44 workers. According to senior project manager Quentin Burkel, the firm currently has projects in Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Illinois, and routinely performs maintenance projects as well as new track construction.

            “Our primary customers are private industry—ethanol plants, coops, some short line railroads––and the Abilene and Smoky Valley has been a nice project for us,” Burkel said, who added that the heavy rains in late June were an obstacle in finishing the work by June 28, the targeted date for completion.

Burkel said the massive rehabilitation project actually began when he arrived in Abilene in late May to personally inspect the condition of the track, allowing him to gauge the enormity of the project. He rode the track with A&amp;SV maintenance manager Chris Rush, then walked the entire 5.5 miles of the main line, making note of bad ties, rail conditions, and spots where extra work would be needed.

Burkel’s inspection revealed some unexpected problems that were not covered by the initial list of needs in the KDOT grant. He worked with A&amp;SV President and General Manager Ross Boelling to make recommendations, changes that were, in turn, approved by KDOT.

“We altered the scope of the project to suit the railroad’s needs a bit better,” Burkel explained. His inspection revealed that the A&amp;SV’s original ask for 1,000 new ties was likely not enough, and he suggested altering selected items in the grant to free up more money to cover the cost of 600 additional crossties.

“We felt that the surfacing phase—the lifting and tamping of the track—would not hold up very long unless more ties were added,” he explained, noting that the crew added extra ties to some spots along the line that had proven to be problematic over the years.

“Having the expertise of maintenance professionals on hand to not only do the work but to also offer advice has been extremely helpful,” said Boelling.

“These guys have pointed out how we can best use our allotted funds to make this project even more successful.”

New granite ballast was delivered to Abilene on June 24. The new rock replaces the limestone that had been used, much of which had either washed away from heavy rains or sunk into the roadbed. The new ballast will add to the strength and durability of the rehabilitated track.

Burkel said the R&amp;S crew enjoyed their time in Abilene.

“I’ve fallen in love with that railroad. That steam locomotive is absolutely incredible, and it’s great that you’re keeping that thing alive. I can’t wait to come down and buy a ticket and ride when its rebuild is completed.”

The completion of this project coupled with the $380,000 spent in 2022 and the $60,000 upgrades in 2024, means that the A&amp;SV has now spent $1.1 million to upgrade its track. The KDOT award was a 70-30 matching grant, meaning the railroad is currently trying to raise $176,000 to cover its share of the match, coupled with the balance remaining from past maintenance work.

“We’ve funded about $658,000 of this work by ourselves,” said Boelling, “and we have about $350,000 remaining today.”

Contributions can be made at the railroad’s website, <a href="https://asvrr.org/">asvrr.org</a>, using the “2025 Track Match” link.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752244327425.jpeg" alt="Abilene and Smoky Valley train. A&amp;SV image" />
 <figcaption>Abilene and Smoky Valley train. A&amp;SV image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedABILENE — A major half million dollar track rehabilitation project on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad has been completed, an undertaking that the railroad and its construction contractor are both promising will deliver smoother, safer rides for train crews and passengers. Workers from R&amp;S Track Maintenance wrapped up a month long rehabilitation project this week, signaling an end to track issues that have long hampered the railroad’s growth. A staff of eight R&amp;S construction specialists has worked on a busy four day dawn-to-dusk schedule each week, tackling problems that have been beyond the budget and expertise of the A&amp;SV’s volunteer maintenance crew. R&amp;S staffers have replaced 1,600 badly aged wooden crossties, tightened rail joints, leveled the track, and sealed the project with 1,000 tons of granite rock ballast. These moves have, in effect, added years of life to the railroad’s aged infrastructure and the difference in the quality of A&amp;SV rides has been immediately noticeable. Funding for the project came from the Kansas Department of Transportation’s $588,395 Rail Service Improvement Grant Program. The A&amp;SV’s successful application was announced in December. R&amp;S was the successful bidder among a final list of three railroad maintenance companies. The Columbus, Nebraska, based firm has been in business since 1987 and employs a staff of 44 workers. According to senior project manager Quentin Burkel, the firm currently has projects in Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Illinois, and routinely performs maintenance projects as well as new track construction. “Our primary customers are private industry—ethanol plants, coops, some short line railroads––and the Abilene and Smoky Valley has been a nice project for us,” Burkel said, who added that the heavy rains in late June were an obstacle in finishing the work by June 28, the targeted date for completion.Burkel said the massive rehabilitation project actually began when he arrived in Abilene in late May to personally inspect the condition of the track, allowing him to gauge the enormity of the project. He rode the track with A&amp;SV maintenance manager Chris Rush, then walked the entire 5.5 miles of the main line, making note of bad ties, rail conditions, and spots where extra work would be needed.Burkel’s inspection revealed some unexpected problems that were not covered by the initial list of needs in the KDOT grant. He worked with A&amp;SV President and General Manager Ross Boelling to make recommendations, changes that were, in turn, approved by KDOT.“We altered the scope of the project to suit the railroad’s needs a bit better,” Burkel explained. His inspection revealed that the A&amp;SV’s original ask for 1,000 new ties was likely not enough, and he suggested altering selected items in the grant to free up more money to cover the cost of 600 additional crossties.“We felt that the surfacing phase—the lifting and tamping of the track—would not hold up very long unless more ties were added,” he explained, noting that the crew added extra ties to some spots along the line that had proven to be problematic over the years.“Having the expertise of maintenance professionals on hand to not only do the work but to also offer advice has been extremely helpful,” said Boelling.“These guys have pointed out how we can best use our allotted funds to make this project even more successful.”New granite ballast was delivered to Abilene on June 24. The new rock replaces the limestone that had been used, much of which had either washed away from heavy rains or sunk into the roadbed. The new ballast will add to the strength and durability of the rehabilitated track.Burkel said the R&amp;S crew enjoyed their time in Abilene.“I’ve fallen in love with that railroad. That steam locomotive is absolutely incredible, and it’s great that you’re keeping that thing alive. I can’t wait to come down and buy a ticket and ride when its rebuild is completed.”The completion of this project coupled with the $380,000 spent in 2022 and the $60,000 upgrades in 2024, means that the A&amp;SV has now spent $1.1 million to upgrade its track. The KDOT award was a 70-30 matching grant, meaning the railroad is currently trying to raise $176,000 to cover its share of the match, coupled with the balance remaining from past maintenance work.“We’ve funded about $658,000 of this work by ourselves,” said Boelling, “and we have about $350,000 remaining today.”Contributions can be made at the railroad’s website, <a href="https://asvrr.org/">asvrr.org</a>, using the “2025 Track Match” link.

Major track rehabilitation project on Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad completed

PHILLIPS COUNTY —A Phillips County Deputy and suspect died after an exchange of gunfire Friday in Phillipsburg.

At around 9:28 p.m. Friday, the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office received a report of illegal, non-consumer-grade fireworks being detonated at 899 1st Street in Phillipsburg, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department Spokesman Branden Stitt.

&nbsp;Phillips County Deputy Brandon Gaede responded to the scene and contacted 27-year-old Colton Griffith, a resident of the address and the individual believed responsible for the fireworks.

During the encounter, the undersheriff developed probable cause to arrest Griffith. As the undersheriff attempted to place Griffith in handcuffs, a struggle broke out. Griffith pulled a concealed handgun and opened fire on the the deputy.

Despite being struck by gunfire, the undersheriff returned fire and hit Griffith multiple times. Griffith died at the scene.

EMS transported Undersheriff Brandon Gaede to a local hospital. Despite life-saving measures, medical personnel pronounced him dead at 10:24 p.m.

The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the lead agency in the investigation, is working to determine the full sequence of events that led to the shooting.

Detectives are reviewing evidence and statements from witnesses, medical staff, and others involved. The Sheriff’s Office will release additional information as it becomes available. The case findings will be submitted to the Phillips County Attorney upon the conclusion of the investigation.

Gaede is survived by his wife Karlye and 3 young children.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FuFYWCTy9/">&nbsp;Click here to view the Farmer’s State Bank in Phillipsburg</a>&nbsp;is collecting donations for the family.

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Phillips County Deputy Sheriff Brandon Gaede died Friday as the result of an officer involved shooting in Phillipsburg, according to a social media report from the Holdrege, Nebraska Police Department.

On Friday night while responding to a fireworks call on the corner of First Street and E Street in Phillipsburg gunfire was exchanged between  a sheriff's deputy Gaede and a suspect, according to a social media report from Phillips County Sheriff.

The suspect died from the injuries. Deputy Gaede was wounded and transported to a hospital where he died.

Gaede is survived by his wife Karlye and 3 young children.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-gaede-family-after-tragic-loss">&nbsp;Click here to</a> view an online fundraiser for the family.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FuFYWCTy9/">&nbsp;Click here to view the Farmer’s State Bank in Phillipsburg</a>&nbsp;is collecting donations for the family.

The KBI’s Crime Scene Response Team responded, according to KBI spokesperson Natalie Turner. However, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the investigation, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting in Phillips County.

On Friday night while responding to a fireworks call on the corner of First Street and E Street in Phillipsburg gunfire was exchanged between&nbsp; a sheriff's deputy and suspect, according to a social media report from Phillips County Sheriff. 

The suspect died from the injuries. The deputy was wounded and transported to a hospital.

The KBI’s Crime Scene Response Team responded, according to KBI spokesperson Natalie Turner. However, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751127258786.png" alt="Deputy Brandon Gaede-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Brandon Gaede-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPS COUNTY —A Phillips County Deputy and suspect died after an exchange of gunfire Friday in Phillipsburg.At around 9:28 p.m. Friday, the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office received a report of illegal, non-consumer-grade fireworks being detonated at 899 1st Street in Phillipsburg, according to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department Spokesman Branden Stitt.&nbsp;Phillips County Deputy Brandon Gaede responded to the scene and contacted 27-year-old Colton Griffith, a resident of the address and the individual believed responsible for the fireworks.During the encounter, the undersheriff developed probable cause to arrest Griffith. As the undersheriff attempted to place Griffith in handcuffs, a struggle broke out. Griffith pulled a concealed handgun and opened fire on the the deputy.Despite being struck by gunfire, the undersheriff returned fire and hit Griffith multiple times. Griffith died at the scene.EMS transported Undersheriff Brandon Gaede to a local hospital. Despite life-saving measures, medical personnel pronounced him dead at 10:24 p.m.The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the lead agency in the investigation, is working to determine the full sequence of events that led to the shooting.Detectives are reviewing evidence and statements from witnesses, medical staff, and others involved. The Sheriff’s Office will release additional information as it becomes available. The case findings will be submitted to the Phillips County Attorney upon the conclusion of the investigation.Gaede is survived by his wife Karlye and 3 young children.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FuFYWCTy9/">&nbsp;Click here to view the Farmer’s State Bank in Phillipsburg</a>&nbsp;is collecting donations for the family.-----------------PHILLIPS COUNTY —Phillips County Deputy Sheriff Brandon Gaede died Friday as the result of an officer involved shooting in Phillipsburg, according to a social media report from the Holdrege, Nebraska Police Department.On Friday night while responding to a fireworks call on the corner of First Street and E Street in Phillipsburg gunfire was exchanged between a sheriff's deputy Gaede and a suspect, according to a social media report from Phillips County Sheriff.The suspect died from the injuries. Deputy Gaede was wounded and transported to a hospital where he died.Gaede is survived by his wife Karlye and 3 young children.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-gaede-family-after-tragic-loss">&nbsp;Click here to</a> view an online fundraiser for the family.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FuFYWCTy9/">&nbsp;Click here to view the Farmer’s State Bank in Phillipsburg</a>&nbsp;is collecting donations for the family.The KBI’s Crime Scene Response Team responded, according to KBI spokesperson Natalie Turner. However, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the investigation, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.-----------PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting in Phillips County.On Friday night while responding to a fireworks call on the corner of First Street and E Street in Phillipsburg gunfire was exchanged between&nbsp; a sheriff's deputy and suspect, according to a social media report from Phillips County Sheriff. The suspect died from the injuries. The deputy was wounded and transported to a hospital.The KBI’s Crime Scene Response Team responded, according to KBI spokesperson Natalie Turner. However, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is in charge of the investigation.&nbsp;

Deputy wounded in gunfight in Phillipsburg has died

Still time to register for extra funds to feed children during summer

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is going to prison.

On Friday, Charles Crawford, 63, received two consecutive life sentences&nbsp; for the murders of Vanessa Crawford, 50, and Donald Eckert, 58, on July 25, 2023, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office.

Crawford will not be eligible for parole until 2073.

In December Crawford entered a "no contest" plea to two counts of first-degree felony murder.&nbsp;

"The sentencing of Charles Crawford to two life terms provides a measure of justice for Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert, and their families," stated District Attorney Marc Bennett.

The District Attorney's office acknowledges the critical role of the Wichita Police Department. "This conviction and sentence are a testament to the diligent work of the Wichita Police Department whose swift response and thorough investigation were critical in apprehending Crawford and building a strong case. "We especially want to thank Detective Addie Perkins for her tireless efforts in this case."

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is scheduled for sentencing Friday.

In February, 63-year-old Charles Crawford of Wichita,&nbsp; told Judge Jeffrey Goering he wanted to withdraw his guilty plea in the case, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In December, Crawford pled no contest to two counts of 1st&nbsp;degree murder for&nbsp;the deaths of his 50-year-old wife Vanessa Crawford and her 58-year-old boyfriend Donald Eckert.

Judge Goering will announce his decision on the request for a change of plea Friday.

In July of 2023, a woman dropping off her child at an in-home daycare saw the two homicide victims through a window of a home in the 1100 Block of North Woodrow in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. The victims were identified as Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert both of Wichita.

While the investigation was taking place on the scene, Charles Crawford arrived with a gun pointed at his own head. Officers took cover for safety and immediately requested the assistance of SWAT and Crisis Negotiators. A standoff ensued with Crawford but it ended peacefully when he surrendered and was taken into custody

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690372152213.png" alt="Crawford photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Crawford photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is going to prison.On Friday, Charles Crawford, 63, received two consecutive life sentences&nbsp; for the murders of Vanessa Crawford, 50, and Donald Eckert, 58, on July 25, 2023, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office.Crawford will not be eligible for parole until 2073.In December Crawford entered a "no contest" plea to two counts of first-degree felony murder.&nbsp;"The sentencing of Charles Crawford to two life terms provides a measure of justice for Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert, and their families," stated District Attorney Marc Bennett.The District Attorney's office acknowledges the critical role of the Wichita Police Department. "This conviction and sentence are a testament to the diligent work of the Wichita Police Department whose swift response and thorough investigation were critical in apprehending Crawford and building a strong case. "We especially want to thank Detective Addie Perkins for her tireless efforts in this case."----------SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man who admitted killing his wife and her boyfriend in 2023 is scheduled for sentencing Friday.In February, 63-year-old Charles Crawford of Wichita,&nbsp; told Judge Jeffrey Goering he wanted to withdraw his guilty plea in the case, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. In December, Crawford pled no contest to two counts of 1st&nbsp;degree murder for&nbsp;the deaths of his 50-year-old wife Vanessa Crawford and her 58-year-old boyfriend Donald Eckert.Judge Goering will announce his decision on the request for a change of plea Friday.In July of 2023, a woman dropping off her child at an in-home daycare saw the two homicide victims through a window of a home in the 1100 Block of North Woodrow in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. The victims were identified as Vanessa Crawford and Donald Eckert both of Wichita.While the investigation was taking place on the scene, Charles Crawford arrived with a gun pointed at his own head. Officers took cover for safety and immediately requested the assistance of SWAT and Crisis Negotiators. A standoff ensued with Crawford but it ended peacefully when he surrendered and was taken into custody

Sentencing Day: Kansas man killed wife, her boyfriend

NEW YORK (AP) — Zohran Mamdani has declared victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary after Andrew Cuomo conceded the race in a stunning upset. The race’s ultimate outcome will still be decided by a ranked choice count. But Mamdani was in a commanding position after polls closed Tuesday night. The 33-year-old democratic socialist was virtually unknown outside of political circles a year ago. Cuomo was trying to make a comeback from a sexual harassment scandal. He told supporters that he had called Mamdani to congratulate him. He trailed Mamdani by a significant margin in the first choice ballots.

NEW YORK (AP) — State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani held a tentative lead over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the rest of the crowded field in New York City’s mayoral primary, but the race’s outcome will be decided by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">ranked choice</a>&nbsp;count after neither Democrat got a clear majority in Tuesday’s vote.

With more than an estimated 80% of ballots counted, the race was headed to the ranked choice process.

Mamdani was several points shy of the 50% threshold needed to win outright and wasn’t winning any updates by enough of a margin to close that gap. At the same time, in second place with roughly 36% of the vote among ballots counted, Cuomo was also not gaining ground on Mamdani as counting continued.

It isn’t clear whether that lead will hold. The primary now enters the ranked choice phase, in which candidates with the least support are eliminated and votes cast for them are redistributed based on voter preference. That process won’t begin until July 1.

Mamdani is a 33-year-old democratic socialist who would be the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor if elected. Cuomo is trying to make a comeback from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuomo-new-york-sexual-harrassment-investigation-d0b44db45ab3cd47190f0b483e785bc0">sexual harassment scandal</a>. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams skipped the primary. He’s running as an independent.

The race's ultimate outcome could say something about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-primary-mayor-decision-notes-ff7234fa6a2a4259bb7f7c2b0900d5ba">what kind of leader</a>&nbsp;Democrats are looking for during President Donald Trump's second term.

The vote takes place about four years after Cuomo, 67, resigned as governor following a sexual harassment scandal. Yet he has been the favorite throughout the race, with his deep experience, nearly universal name recognition, strong political connections and juggernaut fundraising apparatus.

The party's progressive wing, meanwhile, has coalesced behind Mamdani, 33, a self-described democratic socialist. A relatively unknown state legislator when the contest began, Mamdani gained momentum by running a sharp campaign laser-focused on the city's high cost of living and secured endorsements from two of the country's foremost progressives, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders.

The candidates made a final push out in the city earlier in the day, sweating it out with voters on a sizzling summer day in which temperatures reached the triple digits. While initial returns were being released after the polls closed at 9 p.m. Tuesday, a winner might not emerge for a week because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">the city's ranked choice voting system</a>, which allows voters to list up to five candidates in order of preference. If a candidate is the first choice of a majority of voters, they win outright. If no candidate reaches that threshold, the tabulation of the rankings wouldn’t begin until July 1.

The primary winner will go on to face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat who decided to run as an independent amid a public uproar over his indictment on corruption charges and the subsequent abandonment of the case by Trump's Justice Department. Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/curtis-sliwa">Curtis Sliwa</a>, the founder of the Guardian Angels, will be on the ballot in the fall's general election. There is also a possibility that Cuomo runs on the November ballot as an independent candidate if he loses the primary.

The mayoral primary’s two leading candidates — one a fresh-faced progressive and the other an older moderate — could be stand-ins for the larger Democratic Party’s ideological divide, though Cuomo’s scandal-scarred past adds a unique tinge to the narrative.

The rest of the pack has struggled to gain recognition in a race where nearly every candidate has cast themselves as the person best positioned to challenge Trump's Republican agenda.

Comptroller Brad Lander, a liberal city government stalwart, made a splash last week when he was arrested after linking arms with a man federal agents were trying to detain at an immigration court in Manhattan. It was unclear if that episode was enough to jump-start a campaign that had been failing to pick up speed behind Lander.

Among the other candidates are City Council Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-new-york-city-queens-76fa94bfa7899d16ff469004c1b0b7ee">Adrienne Adams</a>, state Sen. Zellnor Myrie, hedge fund executive Whitney Tilson and former city Comptroller&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/scott-stringer">Scott Stringer</a>.

Mamdani's energetic run has been hard not to notice.

His army of young canvassers relentlessly knocked on doors throughout the city seeking support. Posters of his grinning mug were up on shop windows. You couldn't get on social media without seeing one of his well-produced videos pitching his vision — free buses, free child care, new apartments, a higher minimum wage and more, paid for by new taxes on rich people. He would be the city's first Indian American and first Muslim mayor.

That youthful energy was apparent Tuesday evening, as both cautiously optimistic canvassers and ecstatic supporters lined the streets of Central Brooklyn, creating a party-like atmosphere that spread from poll sites into the surrounding neighborhoods.

Outside his family’s Caribbean apothecary, Amani Kojo, a 23-year-old first-time voter, passed out iced tea to Mamdani canvassers, encouraging them to stay hydrated.

“It’s 100 degrees outside and it's a vibe. New York City feels alive again,” Kojo said, raising a pile of Mamdani pamphlets. “It feels very electric seeing all the people around, the flyers, all the posts on my Instagram all day.”

Cuomo and some other Democrats have cast Mamdani as unqualified. They say he doesn't have the management chops to wrangle the city's sprawling bureaucracy or handle crises. Critics have also taken aim at Mamdani's support for Palestinian human rights.

In response, Mamdani has slammed Cuomo over his sexual harassment scandal and his handling of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">coronavirus pandemic</a>.

In one heated debate exchange, Cuomo rattled off a long list of what he saw as Mamdani's managerial shortcomings, arguing that his opponent, who has been in the state Assembly since 2021, has never dealt with Congress or unions and never overseen an infrastructure project. He added that Mamdani couldn't be relied upon to go toe-to-toe with Trump.

“To Mr. Cuomo, I have never had to resign in disgrace,” he said.

Cuomo&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-cuomo-resigns-17161f546bb83c32a337036ecf8d2a34">resigned in 2021</a>&nbsp;after a report commissioned by the state attorney general concluded that he had sexually harassed at least 11 women. He has always maintained that he didn't intentionally harass the women, saying he had simply fallen behind what was considered appropriate workplace conduct.

During the campaign, he has become more aggressive in defending himself, framing the situation as a political hit job orchestrated by his enemies.

The fresh scandal at City Hall involving Mayor Eric Adams, though, gave Cuomo a path to end his exile.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750767876711.png" alt="Zohran Mamdani courtesy image&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Zohran Mamdani courtesy image&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Zohran Mamdani has declared victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary after Andrew Cuomo conceded the race in a stunning upset. The race’s ultimate outcome will still be decided by a ranked choice count. But Mamdani was in a commanding position after polls closed Tuesday night. The 33-year-old democratic socialist was virtually unknown outside of political circles a year ago. Cuomo was trying to make a comeback from a sexual harassment scandal. He told supporters that he had called Mamdani to congratulate him. He trailed Mamdani by a significant margin in the first choice ballots.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750767976045.png" alt="photo courtesy Cuomo for Mayor campaign" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Cuomo for Mayor campaign</figcaption>
 </figure>----------NEW YORK (AP) — State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani held a tentative lead over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the rest of the crowded field in New York City’s mayoral primary, but the race’s outcome will be decided by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">ranked choice</a>&nbsp;count after neither Democrat got a clear majority in Tuesday’s vote.With more than an estimated 80% of ballots counted, the race was headed to the ranked choice process.Mamdani was several points shy of the 50% threshold needed to win outright and wasn’t winning any updates by enough of a margin to close that gap. At the same time, in second place with roughly 36% of the vote among ballots counted, Cuomo was also not gaining ground on Mamdani as counting continued.It isn’t clear whether that lead will hold. The primary now enters the ranked choice phase, in which candidates with the least support are eliminated and votes cast for them are redistributed based on voter preference. That process won’t begin until July 1.Mamdani is a 33-year-old democratic socialist who would be the city’s first Muslim and Indian American mayor if elected. Cuomo is trying to make a comeback from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuomo-new-york-sexual-harrassment-investigation-d0b44db45ab3cd47190f0b483e785bc0">sexual harassment scandal</a>. Incumbent Mayor Eric Adams skipped the primary. He’s running as an independent.The race's ultimate outcome could say something about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-primary-mayor-decision-notes-ff7234fa6a2a4259bb7f7c2b0900d5ba">what kind of leader</a>&nbsp;Democrats are looking for during President Donald Trump's second term.The vote takes place about four years after Cuomo, 67, resigned as governor following a sexual harassment scandal. Yet he has been the favorite throughout the race, with his deep experience, nearly universal name recognition, strong political connections and juggernaut fundraising apparatus.The party's progressive wing, meanwhile, has coalesced behind Mamdani, 33, a self-described democratic socialist. A relatively unknown state legislator when the contest began, Mamdani gained momentum by running a sharp campaign laser-focused on the city's high cost of living and secured endorsements from two of the country's foremost progressives, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sen. Bernie Sanders.The candidates made a final push out in the city earlier in the day, sweating it out with voters on a sizzling summer day in which temperatures reached the triple digits. While initial returns were being released after the polls closed at 9 p.m. Tuesday, a winner might not emerge for a week because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nyc-ranked-choice-voting-explained-bdf80be2a079c8573b4571adfc6f4015">the city's ranked choice voting system</a>, which allows voters to list up to five candidates in order of preference. If a candidate is the first choice of a majority of voters, they win outright. If no candidate reaches that threshold, the tabulation of the rankings wouldn’t begin until July 1.The primary winner will go on to face incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, a Democrat who decided to run as an independent amid a public uproar over his indictment on corruption charges and the subsequent abandonment of the case by Trump's Justice Department. Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/curtis-sliwa">Curtis Sliwa</a>, the founder of the Guardian Angels, will be on the ballot in the fall's general election. There is also a possibility that Cuomo runs on the November ballot as an independent candidate if he loses the primary.The mayoral primary’s two leading candidates — one a fresh-faced progressive and the other an older moderate — could be stand-ins for the larger Democratic Party’s ideological divide, though Cuomo’s scandal-scarred past adds a unique tinge to the narrative.The rest of the pack has struggled to gain recognition in a race where nearly every candidate has cast themselves as the person best positioned to challenge Trump's Republican agenda.Comptroller Brad Lander, a liberal city government stalwart, made a splash last week when he was arrested after linking arms with a man federal agents were trying to detain at an immigration court in Manhattan. It was unclear if that episode was enough to jump-start a campaign that had been failing to pick up speed behind Lander.Among the other candidates are City Council Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-new-york-city-queens-76fa94bfa7899d16ff469004c1b0b7ee">Adrienne Adams</a>, state Sen. Zellnor Myrie, hedge fund executive Whitney Tilson and former city Comptroller&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/scott-stringer">Scott Stringer</a>.Mamdani's energetic run has been hard not to notice.His army of young canvassers relentlessly knocked on doors throughout the city seeking support. Posters of his grinning mug were up on shop windows. You couldn't get on social media without seeing one of his well-produced videos pitching his vision — free buses, free child care, new apartments, a higher minimum wage and more, paid for by new taxes on rich people. He would be the city's first Indian American and first Muslim mayor.That youthful energy was apparent Tuesday evening, as both cautiously optimistic canvassers and ecstatic supporters lined the streets of Central Brooklyn, creating a party-like atmosphere that spread from poll sites into the surrounding neighborhoods.Outside his family’s Caribbean apothecary, Amani Kojo, a 23-year-old first-time voter, passed out iced tea to Mamdani canvassers, encouraging them to stay hydrated.“It’s 100 degrees outside and it's a vibe. New York City feels alive again,” Kojo said, raising a pile of Mamdani pamphlets. “It feels very electric seeing all the people around, the flyers, all the posts on my Instagram all day.”Cuomo and some other Democrats have cast Mamdani as unqualified. They say he doesn't have the management chops to wrangle the city's sprawling bureaucracy or handle crises. Critics have also taken aim at Mamdani's support for Palestinian human rights.In response, Mamdani has slammed Cuomo over his sexual harassment scandal and his handling of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic">coronavirus pandemic</a>.In one heated debate exchange, Cuomo rattled off a long list of what he saw as Mamdani's managerial shortcomings, arguing that his opponent, who has been in the state Assembly since 2021, has never dealt with Congress or unions and never overseen an infrastructure project. He added that Mamdani couldn't be relied upon to go toe-to-toe with Trump.Mamdani had a counter ready.“To Mr. Cuomo, I have never had to resign in disgrace,” he said.Cuomo&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-cuomo-resigns-17161f546bb83c32a337036ecf8d2a34">resigned in 2021</a>&nbsp;after a report commissioned by the state attorney general concluded that he had sexually harassed at least 11 women. He has always maintained that he didn't intentionally harass the women, saying he had simply fallen behind what was considered appropriate workplace conduct.During the campaign, he has become more aggressive in defending himself, framing the situation as a political hit job orchestrated by his enemies.The fresh scandal at City Hall involving Mayor Eric Adams, though, gave Cuomo a path to end his exile.

Zohran Mamdani declares victory in NYC's Democratic mayoral primary as Cuomo concedes

WOODSON COUNTY – The Yates Center Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that Tammara Isaacs was located safely. The statewide Purple Alert is canceled.

A Purple Alert is used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.

WOODSON COUNTY&nbsp;– The Yates Center Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Purple Alert for a missing Yates Center woman.&nbsp; A Purple Alert is&nbsp;used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.

The whereabouts of 58-year-old Tammara Isaacs are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.

Isaacs was last seen Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m. at her residence in Yates Center. On Wednesday morning, her car was missing from her residence and she was not there. She is believed to be driving a 2006 dark blue Chevy Malibu.

Isaacs is described as a white female who is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs around 120 pounds. She has blue eyes and blonde, medium length hair.

Isaacs was recently diagnosed with psychosis.

If you see Tammara Isaacs, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Woodson County Dispatch at (620) 625-8640.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750266032096.png" alt=" Isaacs photo Yates Center police" />
 <figcaption> Isaacs photo Yates Center police</figcaption>
 </figure>WOODSON COUNTY – The Yates Center Police Department reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that Tammara Isaacs was located safely. The statewide Purple Alert is canceled.A Purple Alert is used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.-----------WOODSON COUNTY&nbsp;– The Yates Center Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Purple Alert for a missing Yates Center woman.&nbsp; A Purple Alert is&nbsp;used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability.The whereabouts of 58-year-old Tammara Isaacs are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate her.Isaacs was last seen Tuesday afternoon around 3 p.m. at her residence in Yates Center. On Wednesday morning, her car was missing from her residence and she was not there. She is believed to be driving a 2006 dark blue Chevy Malibu.Isaacs is described as a white female who is 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs around 120 pounds. She has blue eyes and blonde, medium length hair.Isaacs was recently diagnosed with psychosis.If you see Tammara Isaacs, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Woodson County Dispatch at (620) 625-8640.

KBI: Purple Alert for missing Kansas woman canceled

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 25.

“As businesses continue to expand and invest across every region of our state — we are seeing more career opportunities than ever before being created here in Kansas,” Toland said. “Anyone seeking a new role or looking to jumpstart their career is encouraged to attend and connect with some of Kansas’ best companies — and learn about the wealth of opportunities out there right now.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a state position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating agencies and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Ffa2ef5bb-361d-42d8-bd97-49d4e24295d2%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-june-25th,-2025/1/0101019779f81cbf-b7adfb00-a640-45a3-89e1-227907d88392-000000/ieMUBgfALqHWIMZPxoQrk0AHgsOFjBcO7z1E7zvFPR0=409">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725635384959.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 25.“As businesses continue to expand and invest across every region of our state — we are seeing more career opportunities than ever before being created here in Kansas,” Toland said. “Anyone seeking a new role or looking to jumpstart their career is encouraged to attend and connect with some of Kansas’ best companies — and learn about the wealth of opportunities out there right now.”The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a state position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating agencies and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Ffa2ef5bb-361d-42d8-bd97-49d4e24295d2%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-june-25th,-2025/1/0101019779f81cbf-b7adfb00-a640-45a3-89e1-227907d88392-000000/ieMUBgfALqHWIMZPxoQrk0AHgsOFjBcO7z1E7zvFPR0=409">here</a>.

KANSASWORKS hosts June Virtual Job Fair for open positions across Kansas

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has temporarily blocked a federal judge’s order that directed President Donald Trump to return control of National Guard troops to California after he deployed them there following protests in Los Angeles over immigration raids. The court said it would hold a hearing on the matter on Tuesday. The ruling came only hours after a federal judge’s order was to take effect at noon Friday. Earlier Thursday, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled the Guard deployment was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump’s statutory authority. The order applied only to the National Guard troops and not Marines who were also deployed to the LA protests.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged Thursday to carry on with the Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/insurrection-act-trump-troops-newsom-military-national-guard-a842f79e1c0e244039be274a6f266a7a">immigration crackdown</a>&nbsp;despite waves of unrest across the U.S. Hours later a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order directing President Donald Trump to return control of the Guard to California.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749519661081.png" alt="Photo Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Photo Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has temporarily blocked a federal judge’s order that directed President Donald Trump to return control of National Guard troops to California after he deployed them there following protests in Los Angeles over immigration raids. The court said it would hold a hearing on the matter on Tuesday. The ruling came only hours after a federal judge’s order was to take effect at noon Friday. Earlier Thursday, U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer ruled the Guard deployment was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump’s statutory authority. The order applied only to the National Guard troops and not Marines who were also deployed to the LA protests.------------LOS ANGELES (AP) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem pledged Thursday to carry on with the Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/insurrection-act-trump-troops-newsom-military-national-guard-a842f79e1c0e244039be274a6f266a7a">immigration crackdown</a>&nbsp;despite waves of unrest across the U.S. Hours later a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order directing President Donald Trump to return control of the Guard to California.The judge's order, which takes effect at noon Friday, said the deployment of the Guard was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded his statutory authority.The White House had no immediate comment on the ruling, but the federal government immediately filed an appeal with the Ninth Circuit court.It was not immediately clear how the decision would change the situation on the ground.Gov. Gavin Newsom had asked the judge to put an emergency stop to troops helping to carry out immigration raids.The developments unfolded as cities nationwide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-crackdown-us-protests-049a611d47d0fc7656731e4f4c714e93">braced for major demonstrations</a>&nbsp;against Trump over the weekend, and their leaders pleaded with residents to protest peacefully.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749779571015.png" alt="DHS Secretary Kristi Noem during Thursday's press conference in LA-image DHS video" />
 <figcaption>DHS Secretary Kristi Noem during Thursday's press conference in LA-image DHS video</figcaption>
 </figure>Noem said the immigration raids that fueled the protests would move forward, saying agents have thousands of targets.“This is only going to continue until we have peace on the streets of Los Angeles,” she said during a news conference that was interrupted by shouting from U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla, a California Democrat who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alex-padilla-noem-immigration-protest-california-f67d220a0254473c53c16aa96f554239">forcibly removed from the event</a>.Newsom has warned that the military intervention is part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-gavin-newsom-california-immigration-protests-a6467fcd3fa66c945ac7c15c40362972">broader effort by Trump</a>&nbsp;to overturn norms at the heart of the nation’s democracy. He also said that sending National Guard troops on the raids has further&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/immigration-protests-los-angeles-6-11-2025">inflamed tensions</a>&nbsp;in Los Angeles, where large and sometimes volatile protests have broken out since the crackdown began nearly a week ago.So far, the protests have been centered mostly in downtown LA near City Hall and a federal detention center where some immigrants are being held. Much of the sprawling city has been spared from the protests.The Trump administration on Wednesday called Newsom's lawsuit a “crass political stunt endangering American lives.”Demonstrations have picked up across the U.S., with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-protests-arrests-austin-aa726c826047f8d7eb4091acc8929b8e">protests emerging</a>&nbsp;in more than a dozen major cities. On Wednesday, police in Seattle used pepper spray to clear out protesters, and officers in Denver used smoke and pepper balls to control a crowd.Police in riot gear — many on horseback — charged at a group of protesters Wednesday night in LA just before the start of the second night of the city’s downtown curfew. The officers struck some demonstrators with wooden rods and later fired crowd-control projectiles, and there were a handful of arrests.Mayor Karen Bass said during a news conference Thursday that the previous night's arrests were for more minor infractions like unlawful assembly and curfew violations. She said the curfew would be in place again and she hopes continuing it a few more days sends the message that “we are serious.”<h2>Noem calls action in LA a blueprint</h2>The immigration agents conducting the raids in LA are “putting together a model and a blueprint” for other communities, Noem said.She pledged that federal authorities “are not going away,” even though, she said, officers have been hit with rocks and bricks and assaulted. She said people with criminal records who are in the country illegally and violent protesters will “face consequences.”“Just because you think you’re here as a citizen, or because you’re a member of a certain group or you’re not a citizen, it doesn’t mean that you’re going to be protected and not face consequences from the laws that this country stands for," she said.Noem criticized the California senator's interruption, calling it "inappropriate.” A statement from her agency said Noem and Padilla met after the news conference for about 15 minutes, but it also chided him for “disrespectful political theater.”Padilla said later that he was demanding answers about the “increasingly extreme immigration enforcement actions” and only wanted to ask Noem a question. He said he was handcuffed but not arrested.“If this is how this administration responds to a senator with a question, I can only imagine what they are doing to farm workers, to cooks, to day laborers throughout the Los Angeles community,” he said.<h2>Military involvement escalates in LA</h2>The Trump administration has rapidly expanded military deployments to Los Angeles over the past week and has said it is willing to send troops to other cities to assist with immigration enforcement and controlling disturbances — in line with what Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mass-deportations-latino-voters-ec64f85e3633c9c7a8a247eaf9feb64f">promised during last year’s campaign</a>.Some 2,000 Guard soldiers are in the nation's second-largest city and are soon to be joined by 2,000 more, along with about 700 Marines, said Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who's in charge of the operation.About 500 of the Guard troops deployed to the Los Angeles protests have been trained to accompany agents on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-court-arrests-ice-deportation-99d822cdc93ae7dc26026c27895d5ea1">immigration operations</a>, the commander said Wednesday. The Guard has the authority to temporarily detain people who attack officers, but any arrests must be made by law enforcement.While some troops have already gone on such missions, he said it’s too early to say if that will continue even after the protests die down.“We are expecting a ramp-up,” Sherman said, noting that protests across the nation were being discussed. “I’m focused right here in LA, what’s going on right here. But you know, I think we’re, we’re very concerned.”<h2>States face questions on deploying troops</h2>With more demonstrations&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-things-to-know-trump-8d37f2bb2bf20ab503205b277e92b885">expected over the weekend</a>, and the possibility that Trump could send troops to other states for immigration enforcement,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newsom-abbott-governors-national-guard-trump-1848ac586dad24ac83a4d72845775688">governors are weighing what to do</a>.Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, has put&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-protests-texas-national-guard-4f8ffc07788515c0d0e7ae40c7980565">5,000 National Guard members</a>&nbsp;on standby in cities where demonstrations are planned. In other Republican-controlled states, governors have not said when or how they’re planning to deploy troops for protests.A group of Democratic governors earlier this week signed a statement calling Trump’s deployments “an alarming abuse of power.”“Illinois follows the law. But let me be clear: We expect the federal government to follow the law too,” Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said Thursday during a Capitol Hill hearing on state immigration policies.<h2>Hundreds have been arrested in LA protests</h2>Los Angeles police have made about 470 arrests since Saturday, the vast majority of which were for failing to leave the area at the request of law enforcement, according to the police department.There have been a handful of more serious charges, including for assault against police officers and for possession of a Molotov cocktail and a gun. Nine police officers have been hurt, mostly with minor injures. Some were transported to a hospital and released.___Rodriguez reported from San Francisco and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Julie Watson in San Diego, Jesse Bedayn in Denver, and Jim Vertuno in Austin, Texas, and Hallie Golden in Seattle contributed.----------------------------SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order Thursday directing President Donald Trump to return control of the National Guard to California.The order, which takes effect at noon Friday, said the deployment of the Guard was illegal and both violated the Tenth Amendment and exceeded Trump's statutory authority.The White House had no immediate comment on the ruling.U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer said Trump overstepped his bounds in ordering the deployment of roughly 4,000 National Guard members to Los Angeles after protests erupted over the immigration crackdown.It was not immediately clear how that would change the situation on the ground.California Gov. Gavin Newsom sued to block the Guard’s deployment against his wishes. California later filed an emergency motion asking the judge to block the Guard from assisting with immigration raids.He argued that the troops were originally deployed to protect federal buildings and wanted the court to block the troops from helping protect immigration agents during the raids, saying that involving the Guard would only escalate tensions and promote civil unrest.In a broad ruling, the judge determined Trump had not properly called the Guard up in the first place.Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, speaking in an interview with The Associated Press and one other media outlet, said that as of Wednesday about 500 of the Guard troops have been trained to accompany agents on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-court-arrests-ice-deportation-99d822cdc93ae7dc26026c27895d5ea1">immigration operations</a>. Photos of Guard soldiers providing security for the agents have already been circulated by immigration officials.Sherman is commander of Task Force 51, which is overseeing the Guard troops and Marines sent to Los Angeles.Earlier in the day Breyer said he intended to rule quickly.“This country was founded in response to a monarch, and the Constitution is a document of limitations. I’m trying to figure out where the lines are drawn,” the judge said before a packed courtroom.

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