KANSAS CITY (AP) — A woman has been sentenced to two life terms in prison for killing a pregnant Arkansas woman and trying to pass off the dead woman's fetus as her own stillborn baby.

Amber Waterman, 44, of Pineville, Missouri, is not eligible for parole under the sentence ordered Tuesday, the U.S. attorney office said. She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2b8af15cde29567cc492fb0a1f4296d1">pleaded guilty in July</a>&nbsp;to kidnapping resulting in death and causing the death of a child in utero.

In her plea, Waterman admitted that she used a false name to contact Ashley Bush of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, on Facebook. Bush, 33, was about 31 weeks pregnant at the time.

Federal prosecutors said Waterman and Bush agreed to meet at an Arkansas convenience store on Oct. 31, 2022. Waterman said she would help Bush get a job, but instead she drove Bush to her own home in Pineville.

Hours later, first responders rushed to a store in Pineville after getting a report that a baby was not breathing. The baby was pronounced dead.

Waterman at first claimed she had given birth to the baby in a truck while on the way to the hospital. In her plea, she admitted the baby was Bush’s.

An autopsy indicated that Bush, who was also the mother of three other children, died as a result of penetrating trauma of the torso. The baby, Valkyrie Willis, died in utero, prosecutors said.

Waterman’s husband, Jamie Waterman, 44, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of being an accessory after the fact to the kidnapping resulting in death.

Charging documents say he helped wrap Bush's body in a tarp, burn it and then move the remains to another location.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722439716070.png" alt="Waterman’s husband, Jamie Waterman, 44, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of being an accessory after the fact to the kidnapping resulting in death.-photo Benton Co." />
 <figcaption>Waterman’s husband, Jamie Waterman, 44, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of being an accessory after the fact to the kidnapping resulting in death.-photo Benton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A woman has been sentenced to two life terms in prison for killing a pregnant Arkansas woman and trying to pass off the dead woman's fetus as her own stillborn baby.Amber Waterman, 44, of Pineville, Missouri, is not eligible for parole under the sentence ordered Tuesday, the U.S. attorney office said. She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2b8af15cde29567cc492fb0a1f4296d1">pleaded guilty in July</a>&nbsp;to kidnapping resulting in death and causing the death of a child in utero.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722439469260.png" alt="Waterman photo Benton Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Waterman photo Benton Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>In her plea, Waterman admitted that she used a false name to contact Ashley Bush of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, on Facebook. Bush, 33, was about 31 weeks pregnant at the time.Federal prosecutors said Waterman and Bush agreed to meet at an Arkansas convenience store on Oct. 31, 2022. Waterman said she would help Bush get a job, but instead she drove Bush to her own home in Pineville.Hours later, first responders rushed to a store in Pineville after getting a report that a baby was not breathing. The baby was pronounced dead.Waterman at first claimed she had given birth to the baby in a truck while on the way to the hospital. In her plea, she admitted the baby was Bush’s.An autopsy indicated that Bush, who was also the mother of three other children, died as a result of penetrating trauma of the torso. The baby, Valkyrie Willis, died in utero, prosecutors said.Waterman’s husband, Jamie Waterman, 44, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of being an accessory after the fact to the kidnapping resulting in death.Charging documents say he helped wrap Bush's body in a tarp, burn it and then move the remains to another location.

Woman sentenced for killing pregnant woman and claiming baby was hers

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Former One Direction singer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/liam-payne">Liam Payne,</a>&nbsp;31, whose chart-topping British boy band generated a global following of swooning fans, was found dead Wednesday after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, local officials said.

Buenos Aires police said in a statement that Payne fell from the third floor of the Casa Sur Hotel in the trendy Palermo neighborhood of Argentina's capital, resulting in “extremely serious injuries.” Medics confirmed his death on the spot, the statement said.

Pablo Policicchio, the communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, said in a statement to The Associated Press that Payne “had jumped from the balcony of his room.” Police rushed to the hotel in response to an emergency call just after 5 p.m. local time, he said, warning of an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

The hotel manager can be heard on a 911 call obtained by the AP saying they had "a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol ... He’s destroying the entire room and, well, we need you to send someone, please.” The manager's voice became more anxious as the call went on, noting the room had a balcony.

Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system, told Argentina’s Todo Noticias TV channel that authorities were investigating the circumstances of his death and conducting an autopsy.

Payne had been vocal about struggling with alcoholism, posting a&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/yIsk5qqE0qc?feature=shared">video</a>&nbsp;in July 2023 to his YouTube channel where he said he had been sober for six months after receiving treatment. Representatives for Payne did not immediately return emails and calls.

Dozens of One Direction fans flocked from across Buenos Aires to the Casa Sur Hotel after the news broke, forming lines that spilled into the cordoned-off street outside the hotel where police stood sentinel. Forensic investigators were seen exiting the hotel, from where Payne’s body was removed around three hours after the fall. Young women filming with their cellphones expressed shock and heartbreak as a makeshift memorial with rows of candles and bouquets quickly grew outside the hotel.

“I didn’t think he was going to die so young,” 21-year-old Isabella Milesi told the AP.

Payne was one of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ddb64a872b944032b7624fefc950bfd2">five members of One Direction,</a>&nbsp;which formed when they each auditioned for the British singing competition series “The X Factor” in 2010, two years after Payne's first attempt to get on the show. At 16 the second time around, Payne sang Michael Bublé’s version of “Cry Me a River,” appearing nervous at the start but warming up with the audience’s cheers and applause.

After each singer failed to make it through the competition as solo acts, Simon Cowell and his fellow judges combined Payne, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson into what would become one of the most successful boy bands — even though they lost the competition.

Each member had their own persona, with Payne — who hailed from Wolverhampton, a city in the West Midlands region of England — being known as the responsible one. The band became known for their pop sound and romantic hits like “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Night Changes” and “Story of My Life.” Payne had prominent solos on songs including “Stole My Heart” and “Change Your Ticket,” co-writing several of the band's hits. They had six Top 10 hits on the Billboard charts by the time they disbanded in 2016 and a highly loyal fan base, known as “Directioners,” many of whom were teen girls.

“I’ve always loved One Direction since I was little,” said 18-year-old Juana Relh, another fan outside Payne’s hotel. “To see that he died and that there will never be another reunion of the boys is unbelievable, it kills me.”

With his meteoric rise to fame, Payne had said that it took some time to adjust to the public eye.

“I don’t think you can ever deal with that, it’s all a bit crazy for us to see that people get in that sort of state of mind about us and what we do,” he said in a 2013 interview with the AP after recounting an experience where a fan was in a state of shock upon meeting him.

After the group's dissolution, Payne — like each of his erstwhile bandmates — pursued a solo career, shifting toward EDM and hip-hop. His 2017 single “Strip That Down,” featuring Quavo, reached the Billboard Top 10, and stayed on the charts for several months. He put out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/liam-payne-arts-and-entertainment-d11ea85505dd1df4ffe4031e41f0e177">an album “LP1”</a>&nbsp;in 2019, and his last release — a single called “Teardrops” — was released in March.

Payne had a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/187b930a37ab4647b6ef0a2ce0d3d5af">7-year-old son, Bear Grey Payne,</a>&nbsp;with his former girlfriend, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/u-k-x-factor-coming-to-us-on-axs-tv-channel-78b4cfb393c747559a165a9b439c53a7">musician Cheryl</a>&nbsp;who was known as Cheryl Cole when she performed with Girls Aloud. She was an “X Factor” judge during One Direction's season, although their relationship began years later. Payne was previously engaged to Maya Henry, from August 2020 to early 2022. Henry released a novel earlier this year that she said was based on their relationship.

In addition to his son, he is survived by his parents, Geoff and Karen Payne, and his two older sisters, Ruth and Nicola.

Huamani reported from Los Angeles. Associated Press journalists Natacha Pisarenko and Debora Rey contributed reporting from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729118983906.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Former One Direction singer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/liam-payne">Liam Payne,</a>&nbsp;31, whose chart-topping British boy band generated a global following of swooning fans, was found dead Wednesday after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, local officials said.Buenos Aires police said in a statement that Payne fell from the third floor of the Casa Sur Hotel in the trendy Palermo neighborhood of Argentina's capital, resulting in “extremely serious injuries.” Medics confirmed his death on the spot, the statement said.Pablo Policicchio, the communications director for the Buenos Aires Security Ministry, said in a statement to The Associated Press that Payne “had jumped from the balcony of his room.” Police rushed to the hotel in response to an emergency call just after 5 p.m. local time, he said, warning of an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”The hotel manager can be heard on a 911 call obtained by the AP saying they had "a guest who is overwhelmed with drugs and alcohol ... He’s destroying the entire room and, well, we need you to send someone, please.” The manager's voice became more anxious as the call went on, noting the room had a balcony.Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system, told Argentina’s Todo Noticias TV channel that authorities were investigating the circumstances of his death and conducting an autopsy.Payne had been vocal about struggling with alcoholism, posting a&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/yIsk5qqE0qc?feature=shared">video</a>&nbsp;in July 2023 to his YouTube channel where he said he had been sober for six months after receiving treatment. Representatives for Payne did not immediately return emails and calls.Dozens of One Direction fans flocked from across Buenos Aires to the Casa Sur Hotel after the news broke, forming lines that spilled into the cordoned-off street outside the hotel where police stood sentinel. Forensic investigators were seen exiting the hotel, from where Payne’s body was removed around three hours after the fall. Young women filming with their cellphones expressed shock and heartbreak as a makeshift memorial with rows of candles and bouquets quickly grew outside the hotel.“I didn’t think he was going to die so young,” 21-year-old Isabella Milesi told the AP.Payne was one of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ddb64a872b944032b7624fefc950bfd2">five members of One Direction,</a>&nbsp;which formed when they each auditioned for the British singing competition series “The X Factor” in 2010, two years after Payne's first attempt to get on the show. At 16 the second time around, Payne sang Michael Bublé’s version of “Cry Me a River,” appearing nervous at the start but warming up with the audience’s cheers and applause.After each singer failed to make it through the competition as solo acts, Simon Cowell and his fellow judges combined Payne, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson into what would become one of the most successful boy bands — even though they lost the competition.Each member had their own persona, with Payne — who hailed from Wolverhampton, a city in the West Midlands region of England — being known as the responsible one. The band became known for their pop sound and romantic hits like “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Night Changes” and “Story of My Life.” Payne had prominent solos on songs including “Stole My Heart” and “Change Your Ticket,” co-writing several of the band's hits. They had six Top 10 hits on the Billboard charts by the time they disbanded in 2016 and a highly loyal fan base, known as “Directioners,” many of whom were teen girls.“I’ve always loved One Direction since I was little,” said 18-year-old Juana Relh, another fan outside Payne’s hotel. “To see that he died and that there will never be another reunion of the boys is unbelievable, it kills me.”With his meteoric rise to fame, Payne had said that it took some time to adjust to the public eye.“I don’t think you can ever deal with that, it’s all a bit crazy for us to see that people get in that sort of state of mind about us and what we do,” he said in a 2013 interview with the AP after recounting an experience where a fan was in a state of shock upon meeting him.After the group's dissolution, Payne — like each of his erstwhile bandmates — pursued a solo career, shifting toward EDM and hip-hop. His 2017 single “Strip That Down,” featuring Quavo, reached the Billboard Top 10, and stayed on the charts for several months. He put out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/liam-payne-arts-and-entertainment-d11ea85505dd1df4ffe4031e41f0e177">an album “LP1”</a>&nbsp;in 2019, and his last release — a single called “Teardrops” — was released in March.Payne had a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/187b930a37ab4647b6ef0a2ce0d3d5af">7-year-old son, Bear Grey Payne,</a>&nbsp;with his former girlfriend, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/u-k-x-factor-coming-to-us-on-axs-tv-channel-78b4cfb393c747559a165a9b439c53a7">musician Cheryl</a>&nbsp;who was known as Cheryl Cole when she performed with Girls Aloud. She was an “X Factor” judge during One Direction's season, although their relationship began years later. Payne was previously engaged to Maya Henry, from August 2020 to early 2022. Henry released a novel earlier this year that she said was based on their relationship.In addition to his son, he is survived by his parents, Geoff and Karen Payne, and his two older sisters, Ruth and Nicola.___Huamani reported from Los Angeles. Associated Press journalists Natacha Pisarenko and Debora Rey contributed reporting from Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Liam Payne, former One Direction member, dies in fall from hotel balcony

WASHINGTON (AP) — As the presidential race moves into its final weeks, Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;embarked on an interview blitz that offered new details about their policy priorities and their political strategies.

In recent days, Harris has sat with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-charlamagne-trump-breakfast-club-women-2eab5daa1095b7ecb38fe92857acdb86">Charlamagne tha God</a>, whose radio show is especially popular among younger and Black audiences, and will be interviewed on Fox News, typically a safe haven for Republicans. Trump, meanwhile, participated in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-economics-plan-6a4b07be04e342bf657ad12ef7b6bbfa">contentious interview</a>&nbsp;with the editor of Bloomberg News at an economic forum in Chicago, though the crowd was friendly to him, and participated in town halls on Fox News and the Spanish-language network Univision.

Here are some takeaways from the cascade of appearances:

Both candidates have largely avoided traditional interviews during the campaign, preferring to sit before friendly hosts, often in nontraditional media settings. The two-day interview marathon was a noteworthy, partial break from that strategy.

Harris, whom the Trump campaign hammered for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-media-interviews-adaa9ac0f58017d255c5843aedbec8dd">not doing interviews</a>&nbsp;after replacing President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;at the top of the Democratic ticket, has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-stern-view-colbert-60-minutes-daddy-5a2af60ba0b1099e19cca151955c9855">ramped up the pace</a>&nbsp;this month. The Vice President appeared on ABC's “The View,” spoke with radio host&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/howard-stern">Howard Stern</a>&nbsp;and taped a show with late-night comedian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/stephen-colbert">Stephen Colbert</a>, among other appearances. She also sat down with the newsmagazine “60 Minutes,” as is traditional for presidential candidates, while Trump canceled his appearance with the show.

Harris’ appearance on Fox with anchor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bret-baier">Bret Baier</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday seemed designed to show her willingness to face any questioner, especially after Trump bailed on “60 Minutes.”

The former president's interview by Bloomberg editor-in-chief John Micklethwait in Chicago on Tuesday was an unusual appearance before a nonconservative questioner, though the audience frequently cheered him when he clashed with the interviewer. Micklethwait challenged Trump's support for tariffs and his plans to pay for his campaign promises.

He also faced an all-women audience in a Fox News town hall before participating in a town hall on the Spanish-language network Univision, where he faced pointed questions from Latino voters. Like Harris, Trump is trying to broaden his coalition to get the key votes he needs to win the neck-and-neck race. So, for him as well, every interview counts.

Trump offers tacit acknowledgment that he's vulnerable on abortion

Trump has repeatedly said he is proud of his leading role in the reversal of Roe v Wade. But his latest comments on abortion serve as a fresh reminder that the Republican understands that the issue is dangerous politically for him and his party.

He was forced to defend his position when asked a surprisingly pointed question from the all-women audience at a Fox News town hall.

“Women are entitled to do what they want to and need to do with their bodies, including their unborn. That’s on them regardless of the circumstance,” the questioner said. "Some are necessary to save their own lives. Why is the government involved in women’s basic rights?”

Trump initially responded with his typical refrain that the issue had been returned to the states. But he also acknowledged that some of the state laws are “too tough.” And he went further: “And this is going to be redone, because already there’s a movement in those states ... to redo it."

It's not exactly clear what Trump was referring to. There is little evidence that pro-Trump Republican officials in states that have adopted strict abortion bans, some that take effect before many women realize they're pregnant, are taking action to “redo” their laws.

A few states with strict bans have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ballot-measure-states-candidates-2004-953bce3ea1666f128721cab2a5c1cd1d">questions on the ballot</a>&nbsp;this year that would roll them back. That includes Florida, where Trump has criticized the ban as too harsh but also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-abortion-florida-six-weeks-ae0ce47cb2af82a6586fa19235ea2226">said he would vote to uphold the law</a>.

The truth is that the reversal of Roe has been a political disaster for Trump's Republican Party. Women have revolted against the GOP in various elections since the Supreme Court ruling. But Trump is betting that muddying the waters with vague promises and a softer tone might limit the damage come November.

Harris agrees that Trump is a ‘fascist’ as Trump doubles down on authoritarian rhetoric

Charlamagne pushed the limits of Harris' rhetoric when the Democrat reminded voters that they had “two choices … and it’s two very different visions for our nation."

“The other is about fascism. Why can’t we just say it?” Charlamagne interjected.

Harris immediately replied: “Yes, we can say that.”

It was the first time that the vice president so directly and publicly agreed with that kind of language to describe Trump. The exchange underscored Harris' decision to revert to a key Biden argument as Election Day draws near: Democracy is on the line on Nov. 5. And, the Democratic argument goes, Trump is unfit to lead because of his lies about the legitimacy of the 2020 election, his role in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">Jan. 6, 2021</a>, Capitol riot and his consistent authoritarian rhetoric, among other things.

Trump offered a fresh example during his appearances on Fox and Univision.

When pressed about his supporters' violent attack against the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, Trump defended his loyalists. “That was a day of love from the standpoint of the millions," he said on Univision.

He also refused to back down from his weekend comments that his Democratic rivals represent a more serious threat to the United States than China and Russia. Over the weekend and again in the Fox interview, he called them “the enemy within.”

Experts have warned that such language is common among authoritarian leaders seeking to quell dissent.

“It is the enemy from within, and they’re very dangerous. They’re Marxists and communists and fascists,” Trump said on Fox, naming former House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nancy-pelosi">Nancy Pelosi</a>&nbsp;and Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/adam-schiff">Adam Schiff</a>, D-Calif., who served on the congressional committee that investigated Trump's role in the Jan. 6 insurrection.

“We have China, we have Russia, we have all these countries. If you have a smart president, they can all be handled. The more difficult are, you know, Pelosi, these people, they’re so sick and they’re so evil.”

Both campaigns are vying to win over Black men

In an election that could be decided on the margins, every vote counts. In the final stretch toward the election, Trump and Harris are turning their focus to Black men.

Harris, in her interview with Charlamagne, warned that Trump wanted to oversee a return to harsh policing tactics known as “stop and frisk” that disproportionately affect Black men. She promised to push for legislation to address discriminatory law enforcement practices and decriminalize marijuana arrests, which also affect Black men disproportionately. And she said that reparations for ancestors of slaves should be studied, a position that isn’t new but one that Trump has sought to exploit to help strengthen his advantage with white voters.

It was among the first times this campaign season that criminal justice reforms have been a leading talking point for Harris, though they dominated in 2020.

Trump oozed confidence when he addressed Black voters on Tuesday. Both parties concede that while Harris is likely to win Black voters overwhelmingly, Trump is eating into her margins, especially among young Black men. Any significant shift could be consequential in a razor-thin election.

“Any African American or Hispanic, and you know how well I’m doing there, that votes for Kamala, you’ve got to have your head examined,” Trump said.

Harris said part of her challenge is that Trump’s campaign is “trying to scare people away because otherwise they know they have nothing to run on."

“Ask Donald Trump what is his plan for Black America,” she said. “Ask him.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — As the presidential race moves into its final weeks, Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;embarked on an interview blitz that offered new details about their policy priorities and their political strategies.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My entire career, I have worked to support our HBCUs, expand access to health care, address Black maternal mortality, invest in our small businesses, and achieve the lowest Black unemployment rate ever in our country. I will do the same as president. <a href="https://t.co/XNblB0t1lv">pic.twitter.com/XNblB0t1lv</a>&mdash; Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1846604397117120765?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In recent days, Harris has sat with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-charlamagne-trump-breakfast-club-women-2eab5daa1095b7ecb38fe92857acdb86">Charlamagne tha God</a>, whose radio show is especially popular among younger and Black audiences, and will be interviewed on Fox News, typically a safe haven for Republicans. Trump, meanwhile, participated in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-economics-plan-6a4b07be04e342bf657ad12ef7b6bbfa">contentious interview</a>&nbsp;with the editor of Bloomberg News at an economic forum in Chicago, though the crowd was friendly to him, and participated in town halls on Fox News and the Spanish-language network Univision.Here are some takeaways from the cascade of appearances:<h2>Controlled campaigns are going public</h2>Both candidates have largely avoided traditional interviews during the campaign, preferring to sit before friendly hosts, often in nontraditional media settings. The two-day interview marathon was a noteworthy, partial break from that strategy.Harris, whom the Trump campaign hammered for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-media-interviews-adaa9ac0f58017d255c5843aedbec8dd">not doing interviews</a>&nbsp;after replacing President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;at the top of the Democratic ticket, has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-stern-view-colbert-60-minutes-daddy-5a2af60ba0b1099e19cca151955c9855">ramped up the pace</a>&nbsp;this month. The Vice President appeared on ABC's “The View,” spoke with radio host&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/howard-stern">Howard Stern</a>&nbsp;and taped a show with late-night comedian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/stephen-colbert">Stephen Colbert</a>, among other appearances. She also sat down with the newsmagazine “60 Minutes,” as is traditional for presidential candidates, while Trump canceled his appearance with the show.Harris’ appearance on Fox with anchor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bret-baier">Bret Baier</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday seemed designed to show her willingness to face any questioner, especially after Trump bailed on “60 Minutes.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump: &quot;Gavin New-Scum, he&#39;s the governor of California --&quot; John Micklethwait: &quot;Newsom.&quot; Trump: &quot;New-Scum I call him...that&#39;s the first time I&#39;ve been corrected...there&#39;s never been a president that&#39;s been treated like me, so I have to fight my own way.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Qe71LKRc94">pic.twitter.com/Qe71LKRc94</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1846260834537754671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The former president's interview by Bloomberg editor-in-chief John Micklethwait in Chicago on Tuesday was an unusual appearance before a nonconservative questioner, though the audience frequently cheered him when he clashed with the interviewer. Micklethwait challenged Trump's support for tariffs and his plans to pay for his campaign promises.He also faced an all-women audience in a Fox News town hall before participating in a town hall on the Spanish-language network Univision, where he faced pointed questions from Latino voters. Like Harris, Trump is trying to broaden his coalition to get the key votes he needs to win the neck-and-neck race. So, for him as well, every interview counts.<h2>Trump offers tacit acknowledgment that he's vulnerable on abortion</h2>Trump has repeatedly said he is proud of his leading role in the reversal of Roe v Wade. But his latest comments on abortion serve as a fresh reminder that the Republican understands that the issue is dangerous politically for him and his party.He was forced to defend his position when asked a surprisingly pointed question from the all-women audience at a Fox News town hall.“Women are entitled to do what they want to and need to do with their bodies, including their unborn. That’s on them regardless of the circumstance,” the questioner said. "Some are necessary to save their own lives. Why is the government involved in women’s basic rights?”Trump initially responded with his typical refrain that the issue had been returned to the states. But he also acknowledged that some of the state laws are “too tough.” And he went further: “And this is going to be redone, because already there’s a movement in those states ... to redo it."It's not exactly clear what Trump was referring to. There is little evidence that pro-Trump Republican officials in states that have adopted strict abortion bans, some that take effect before many women realize they're pregnant, are taking action to “redo” their laws.A few states with strict bans have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ballot-measure-states-candidates-2004-953bce3ea1666f128721cab2a5c1cd1d">questions on the ballot</a>&nbsp;this year that would roll them back. That includes Florida, where Trump has criticized the ban as too harsh but also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-abortion-florida-six-weeks-ae0ce47cb2af82a6586fa19235ea2226">said he would vote to uphold the law</a>.The truth is that the reversal of Roe has been a political disaster for Trump's Republican Party. Women have revolted against the GOP in various elections since the Supreme Court ruling. But Trump is betting that muddying the waters with vague promises and a softer tone might limit the damage come November.<h2>Harris agrees that Trump is a ‘fascist’ as Trump doubles down on authoritarian rhetoric</h2>Charlamagne pushed the limits of Harris' rhetoric when the Democrat reminded voters that they had “two choices … and it’s two very different visions for our nation."“The other is about fascism. Why can’t we just say it?” Charlamagne interjected.Harris immediately replied: “Yes, we can say that.”It was the first time that the vice president so directly and publicly agreed with that kind of language to describe Trump. The exchange underscored Harris' decision to revert to a key Biden argument as Election Day draws near: Democracy is on the line on Nov. 5. And, the Democratic argument goes, Trump is unfit to lead because of his lies about the legitimacy of the 2020 election, his role in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">Jan. 6, 2021</a>, Capitol riot and his consistent authoritarian rhetoric, among other things.Trump offered a fresh example during his appearances on Fox and Univision.When pressed about his supporters' violent attack against the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, Trump defended his loyalists. “That was a day of love from the standpoint of the millions," he said on Univision.He also refused to back down from his weekend comments that his Democratic rivals represent a more serious threat to the United States than China and Russia. Over the weekend and again in the Fox interview, he called them “the enemy within.”Experts have warned that such language is common among authoritarian leaders seeking to quell dissent.“It is the enemy from within, and they’re very dangerous. They’re Marxists and communists and fascists,” Trump said on Fox, naming former House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nancy-pelosi">Nancy Pelosi</a>&nbsp;and Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/adam-schiff">Adam Schiff</a>, D-Calif., who served on the congressional committee that investigated Trump's role in the Jan. 6 insurrection.“We have China, we have Russia, we have all these countries. If you have a smart president, they can all be handled. The more difficult are, you know, Pelosi, these people, they’re so sick and they’re so evil.”<h2>Both campaigns are vying to win over Black men</h2>In an election that could be decided on the margins, every vote counts. In the final stretch toward the election, Trump and Harris are turning their focus to Black men.Harris, in her interview with Charlamagne, warned that Trump wanted to oversee a return to harsh policing tactics known as “stop and frisk” that disproportionately affect Black men. She promised to push for legislation to address discriminatory law enforcement practices and decriminalize marijuana arrests, which also affect Black men disproportionately. And she said that reparations for ancestors of slaves should be studied, a position that isn’t new but one that Trump has sought to exploit to help strengthen his advantage with white voters.It was among the first times this campaign season that criminal justice reforms have been a leading talking point for Harris, though they dominated in 2020.Trump oozed confidence when he addressed Black voters on Tuesday. Both parties concede that while Harris is likely to win Black voters overwhelmingly, Trump is eating into her margins, especially among young Black men. Any significant shift could be consequential in a razor-thin election.“Any African American or Hispanic, and you know how well I’m doing there, that votes for Kamala, you’ve got to have your head examined,” Trump said.Harris said part of her challenge is that Trump’s campaign is “trying to scare people away because otherwise they know they have nothing to run on."“Ask Donald Trump what is his plan for Black America,” she said. “Ask him.”___

🎥Harris and Trump offer new details about policies and strategy

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A woman who called 911 to report shooting her son last week made her first court appearance in the case Tuesday, Tesha Florence, 46, is charged with second degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

A Kansas boy critically injured in a shooting on Wednesday has died, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.

Just after 8a.m. Wednesday, Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a 911 call from Florence reporting that she shot her son, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.

First responders located a 16-year-old identified as Robert Florence inside an apartment in the 9100 Block of East Harry. He had a single gunshot wound. EMS transported him to an area hospital where he was in extremely critical condition. He died two days later, according to Moses.

At the scene, officers detained&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=168822">Tesha Florence,</a>&nbsp;identified according to Sedgwick County booking records. She is the boy's mother.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the investigation into this case, detectives learned of a previously unreported incident from March 2024 where Tesha Florence threatened an ex-husband and his current girlfriend with a gun.

Florence remains in the Sedgwick County Jail on a $1.2 million bond. She is due back in court Oct. 24, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728555306481.png" alt="Florence-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Florence-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A woman who called 911 to report shooting her son last week made her first court appearance in the case Tuesday, Tesha Florence, 46, is charged with second degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.A Kansas boy critically injured in a shooting on Wednesday has died, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.Just after 8a.m. Wednesday, Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a 911 call from Florence reporting that she shot her son, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728510375843.png" alt="-Police on the scene of the investigation Wednesday morning-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>-Police on the scene of the investigation Wednesday morning-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders located a 16-year-old identified as Robert Florence inside an apartment in the 9100 Block of East Harry. He had a single gunshot wound. EMS transported him to an area hospital where he was in extremely critical condition. He died two days later, according to Moses.At the scene, officers detained&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=168822">Tesha Florence,</a>&nbsp;identified according to Sedgwick County booking records. She is the boy's mother.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the investigation into this case, detectives learned of a previously unreported incident from March 2024 where Tesha Florence threatened an ex-husband and his current girlfriend with a gun.Florence remains in the Sedgwick County Jail on a $1.2 million bond. She is due back in court Oct. 24, according to the district attorney's office.

Mother charged in the shooting death of her 16-year-old son

SALINA —Drivers across Kansas continue to ignore the posted speed limit.

Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner asked on his social media account, "How do you rack up a total fine of $453 in a matter of seconds?"

"By driving 80 mph in a 40 mph zone on South Ohio Street within the city limits of Salina. Speeds like this put everyone on the road—including the driver—at serious risk."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729102551981.png" alt="photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA —Drivers across Kansas continue to ignore the posted speed limit.Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Ben Gardner asked on his social media account, "How do you rack up a total fine of $453 in a matter of seconds?""By driving 80 mph in a 40 mph zone on South Ohio Street within the city limits of Salina. Speeds like this put everyone on the road—including the driver—at serious risk."

KHP: Driver fined $453 for traveling 80mph in a 40mph zone

Bismarck, ND– Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach Tuesday asked the U.S. District Court in North Dakota to temporarily stop the Biden-Harris administration from implementing a regulation that would give Obamacare to illegal aliens, according to a media release from the Attorney General's office.

The regulation, set to take effect on Nov. 1, would make more than 200,000 deferred action for childhood arrival (DACA) recipients eligible for taxpayer-subsidized health plans, including 4,350 DACA recipients in Kansas.

“Congress made it clear on two separate occasions that illegal aliens cannot receive Obamacare. First, a 1996 law makes clear that illegal aliens are generally prohibited from receiving federal benefits. Second, in the affordable care act itself, an alien has to be lawfully present in the United States to receive the subsidized health insurance,” Kobach said. “The Biden administration does not have a good response.&nbsp; I have argued immigration issues in many different cases, and I feel particularly good about the states’ chances in this one.

”North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley and South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley also appeared in court. Kobach served as lead counsel.“Washington has failed to secure our southern border, and the cost of DACA is not the right solution for the states,” Jackley said. “DACA’s subsidized health insurance for illegal immigrants would be at the cost of struggling working citizens.”

Attorneys general from 15 states joined the lawsuit. In addition to Kobach, Wrigley and Jackley, attorneys general from Alabama, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia joined the lawsuit.Read latest filings in the case&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/divisions/special-litigation-unit/high-profile-cases">here</a>.

Bismarck, ND– Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach Tuesday asked the U.S. District Court in North Dakota to temporarily stop the Biden-Harris administration from implementing a regulation that would give Obamacare to illegal aliens, according to a media release from the Attorney General's office.The regulation, set to take effect on Nov. 1, would make more than 200,000 deferred action for childhood arrival (DACA) recipients eligible for taxpayer-subsidized health plans, including 4,350 DACA recipients in Kansas.“Congress made it clear on two separate occasions that illegal aliens cannot receive Obamacare. First, a 1996 law makes clear that illegal aliens are generally prohibited from receiving federal benefits. Second, in the affordable care act itself, an alien has to be lawfully present in the United States to receive the subsidized health insurance,” Kobach said. “The Biden administration does not have a good response.&nbsp; I have argued immigration issues in many different cases, and I feel particularly good about the states’ chances in this one.”North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley and South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley also appeared in court. Kobach served as lead counsel.“Washington has failed to secure our southern border, and the cost of DACA is not the right solution for the states,” Jackley said. “DACA’s subsidized health insurance for illegal immigrants would be at the cost of struggling working citizens.”Attorneys general from 15 states joined the lawsuit. In addition to Kobach, Wrigley and Jackley, attorneys general from Alabama, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia joined the lawsuit.Read latest filings in the case&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.ks.gov/divisions/special-litigation-unit/high-profile-cases">here</a>.

Kan. AG leads coalition to stop Biden-Harris from giving Obamacare to illegal aliens

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that left 27-year-old Jonathan Macias of Sedgwick County dead.

(Click below to watch the press conference with Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan.)

On Tuesday, Wichita Chief of Police Joe Sullivan released a timeline of events that ended in the fatal shooting.

Just after 7a.m.&nbsp; Saturday, Sedgwick County 911 received a call from a man stating that he was armed and going to shoot people. Law Enforcement from multiple agencies responded to this call and contacted a man later identified as Macias who appeared to be wearing body armor, according to Colonel Keith Allen with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.

Law enforcement tried to deescalate the situation over the next hour&nbsp; but Macias got into a vehicle and drove up and down the streets in the neighborhood on the northwest edge of Wichita.

After approximately one hour of attempting negotiations with Macias, there was an officer involved shooting. Deputies and police from multiple agencies were inolved.&nbsp; Sedgwick County EMS pronounced Macias&nbsp; deceased at the scene of the incident.

In December, police arrested Macias on requested charges of Domestic battery, battery on a law enforcement officer, failure to stop at an injury accident and failure to appear, according to Sedgwick County booking records. He was released by a court order, according to online arrest records.&nbsp; The Associated Press contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729021111585.png" alt="Body camera image released Tuesday by Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Body camera image released Tuesday by Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that left 27-year-old Jonathan Macias of Sedgwick County dead.(Click below to watch the press conference with Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan.)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWichitaPolice%2Fvideos%2F1071258457742416%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=163" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>On Tuesday, Wichita Chief of Police Joe Sullivan released a timeline of events that ended in the fatal shooting.Just after 7a.m.&nbsp; Saturday, Sedgwick County 911 received a call from a man stating that he was armed and going to shoot people. Law Enforcement from multiple agencies responded to this call and contacted a man later identified as Macias who appeared to be wearing body armor, according to Colonel Keith Allen with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728936452904.png" alt="Macias photo from a December arrest in Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Macias photo from a December arrest in Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>Law enforcement tried to deescalate the situation over the next hour&nbsp; but Macias got into a vehicle and drove up and down the streets in the neighborhood on the northwest edge of Wichita.After approximately one hour of attempting negotiations with Macias, there was an officer involved shooting. Deputies and police from multiple agencies were inolved.&nbsp; Sedgwick County EMS pronounced Macias&nbsp; deceased at the scene of the incident.In December, police arrested Macias on requested charges of Domestic battery, battery on a law enforcement officer, failure to stop at an injury accident and failure to appear, according to Sedgwick County booking records. He was released by a court order, according to online arrest records.&nbsp; The Associated Press contributed to this report.

New details released in deadly Kan. officer-involved shooting

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City motorcycle traffic officer was injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Wednesday, according to KCPD Officer Jake Becchina.

The crash occurred&nbsp;at Gregory and Troost.&nbsp; EMS transported the officer&nbsp; to the hospital with what is reported to be critical injuries, according to Becchina.

KCPD traffic investigations and the KCPD accident investigation sections were at the scene investigating the crash.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Few details are available. Check the Post for more information as it is released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729105015166.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City motorcycle traffic officer was injured in an accident just after 9:30a.m. Wednesday, according to KCPD Officer Jake Becchina.The crash occurred&nbsp;at Gregory and Troost.&nbsp; EMS transported the officer&nbsp; to the hospital with what is reported to be critical injuries, according to Becchina.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A motorcycle officer of the Kansas City Police Department sustained serious injuries this morning in a crash. We are praying for the officer, their family, and all of the women and men of KCPD.&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1846577294451597518?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>KCPD traffic investigations and the KCPD accident investigation sections were at the scene investigating the crash.&nbsp;&nbsp;Few details are available. Check the Post for more information as it is released.

KCPD motorcycle officer critically injured in crash

Eight-foot statue of warrior brings to ground level massize statue atop dome

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

TOPEKA — Dedication on the Kansas Capitol grounds Tuesday of an eight-foot statue depicting a Kansa warrior’s drawn bow and arrow pointed to the North Star closed a monumental 22-year effort to complete the Ad Astra Plaza.

The privately financed project placed on a pedestal southwest of the Capitol a version of the 22-foot, 4,400-pound bronze artwork installed in 2002 atop the dome in honor of the original inhabitants of land incorporated into the state and to symbolize determination of people to achieve goals, as the state motto declared, “to the stars through difficulties.”

Gov. Laura Kelly joined members of the Kaw Nation, a bipartisan set of legislators and the son of late Salina sculptor Richard Bergen to mark installation of the Kansa statue, bronze plaques describing Kansas history and hundreds of bricks purchased to help finance the project.

“In its own right,” the governor said, “to the stars through difficulty is an accurate description for this project. This plaza has been a long time in the making. It’s a poignant reminder of our past and inspiring representation of the bright future that lies ahead.”

Rich Bergen, son of artist and educator Richard Bergen, said the sculpture on the dome stood 300 feet above the ground, but the brethren installation on the lawn made the artwork more accessible to visitors. He said the plaza honored Native Americans through the story of the Kansa people.

“If we don’t remember the past, we will not learn from it,” Bergen said. “My dad really would have loved to have been here today.”

Kimberly Jenkins, chairwoman of the Kaw Nation Tribal Council, said Kansa people lived and hunted for centuries on land that became Kansas. She said the Kaw population had dwindled to about 500 when forced to move in the 1870s to present-day Oklahoma. Citizenship eventually fell to approximately 200, she said, but the Kaw emerged as a self-governing, federally recognized tribe.

“This warrior, to me, is a symbol of how strong our people were and still are,” Jenkins said. “Even though our loved ones suffered from being moved from their homeland and forced to adapt to ways of others, they fought hard.”

Polling of Salina-area students led to the decision to create a statue depicting a Kansa warrior. However, the pedestal meant to host the ground-level version of the artwork sat empty for two decades.

Former Sen. Randall Hardy, who represented Salina in the Legislature from 2017 to 2021, said he was strolling on the statehouse grounds when he came across the bare six-foot pedestal. A plaque donated by former Gov. Bill Graves said the pedestal held a replica of the statue on the dome.

“It was empty. Seventeen bronze plaques had not been cast and placed on the walls. Two-thousand-six-hundred bricks for the plaza were not in place. I was, frankly, embarrassed by what I saw,” Hardy said.

He returned to his office and spoke to Sen. Elaine Bowers, a Concordia Republican who served on a legislative committee dedicated to preservation of the Capitol. Together, with lobbyist John Peterson and others a plan was developed to kickstart development of the plaza.

“I’m so pleased to be here, even though we’re 20 years late. It’s a great day,” Bowers said.

Fundraising was inspired by friends of Bill Brady, a legislator and lobbyist who died in March 2023. He was a presence in the statehouse for more than 40 years.

“His colleagues led the fundraising campaign to help complete the plaza in memory of Bill,” said Nancy Brady, his widow. “I can’t think of anything more meaningful to Bill and our family. I look forward to bringing my family and friends here for many years to come.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729090833791.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly led a bipartisan celebration of the new Ad Astra Plaza on the Kansas Capitol lawn centered on a copy of the Kansa warrior that sits on top of the statehouse. The statue on the dome was installed in 2002, but it took 22 years to finish the ground-level plaza.- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly led a bipartisan celebration of the new Ad Astra Plaza on the Kansas Capitol lawn centered on a copy of the Kansa warrior that sits on top of the statehouse. The statue on the dome was installed in 2002, but it took 22 years to finish the ground-level plaza.- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Eight-foot statue of warrior brings to ground level massize statue atop dome</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Dedication on the Kansas Capitol grounds Tuesday of an eight-foot statue depicting a Kansa warrior’s drawn bow and arrow pointed to the North Star closed a monumental 22-year effort to complete the Ad Astra Plaza.The privately financed project placed on a pedestal southwest of the Capitol a version of the 22-foot, 4,400-pound bronze artwork installed in 2002 atop the dome in honor of the original inhabitants of land incorporated into the state and to symbolize determination of people to achieve goals, as the state motto declared, “to the stars through difficulties.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, we celebrated the new Ad Astra Plaza at the Statehouse. The plaza, with its replica of the iconic Native American hunter statue atop the Statehouse, is a poignant reminder of our past &amp; an inspiring representation of how we&#39;re reaching for the stars to move Kansas forward. <a href="https://t.co/ntKVZGBiNO">pic.twitter.com/ntKVZGBiNO</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1846242116554440962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Gov. Laura Kelly joined members of the Kaw Nation, a bipartisan set of legislators and the son of late Salina sculptor Richard Bergen to mark installation of the Kansa statue, bronze plaques describing Kansas history and hundreds of bricks purchased to help finance the project.“In its own right,” the governor said, “to the stars through difficulty is an accurate description for this project. This plaza has been a long time in the making. It’s a poignant reminder of our past and inspiring representation of the bright future that lies ahead.”Rich Bergen, son of artist and educator Richard Bergen, said the sculpture on the dome stood 300 feet above the ground, but the brethren installation on the lawn made the artwork more accessible to visitors. He said the plaza honored Native Americans through the story of the Kansa people.“If we don’t remember the past, we will not learn from it,” Bergen said. “My dad really would have loved to have been here today.”Kimberly Jenkins, chairwoman of the Kaw Nation Tribal Council, said Kansa people lived and hunted for centuries on land that became Kansas. She said the Kaw population had dwindled to about 500 when forced to move in the 1870s to present-day Oklahoma. Citizenship eventually fell to approximately 200, she said, but the Kaw emerged as a self-governing, federally recognized tribe.“This warrior, to me, is a symbol of how strong our people were and still are,” Jenkins said. “Even though our loved ones suffered from being moved from their homeland and forced to adapt to ways of others, they fought hard.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729090744229.png" alt=" Members of the Kaw Nation present a ceremonial blanket to Rich Bergen, son of the late Salina sculptor Richard Bergen, who created the Kansa warrior statue atop the Capitol. Bergen spoke on behalf of his father at dedication of Ad Astra Plaza, which incorporated a smaller version of the Kansa warrior. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Members of the Kaw Nation present a ceremonial blanket to Rich Bergen, son of the late Salina sculptor Richard Bergen, who created the Kansa warrior statue atop the Capitol. Bergen spoke on behalf of his father at dedication of Ad Astra Plaza, which incorporated a smaller version of the Kansa warrior. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Polling of Salina-area students led to the decision to create a statue depicting a Kansa warrior. However, the pedestal meant to host the ground-level version of the artwork sat empty for two decades.Former Sen. Randall Hardy, who represented Salina in the Legislature from 2017 to 2021, said he was strolling on the statehouse grounds when he came across the bare six-foot pedestal. A plaque donated by former Gov. Bill Graves said the pedestal held a replica of the statue on the dome.“It was empty. Seventeen bronze plaques had not been cast and placed on the walls. Two-thousand-six-hundred bricks for the plaza were not in place. I was, frankly, embarrassed by what I saw,” Hardy said.He returned to his office and spoke to Sen. Elaine Bowers, a Concordia Republican who served on a legislative committee dedicated to preservation of the Capitol. Together, with lobbyist John Peterson and others a plan was developed to kickstart development of the plaza.“I’m so pleased to be here, even though we’re 20 years late. It’s a great day,” Bowers said.Fundraising was inspired by friends of Bill Brady, a legislator and lobbyist who died in March 2023. He was a presence in the statehouse for more than 40 years.“His colleagues led the fundraising campaign to help complete the plaza in memory of Bill,” said Nancy Brady, his widow. “I can’t think of anything more meaningful to Bill and our family. I look forward to bringing my family and friends here for many years to come.”

Kansas governor, Kansa tribe members cap 22-year project by dedicating Capitol plaza

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect after a chase that started in a highway construction zone.

Just after 3a.m. October 12, a deputy sheriff attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a red 2012 Buick Verano that disregarded closed roadways due to construction near SE 29th Street and SE Adams Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The driver, later identified as 20-year-old Beau D. Belisle, refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The deputy terminated the pursuit near SE 29th Street and SE Wisconsin Avenue due to safety concerns. 

Deputies continued to search the area and located the abandoned vehicle with the driver walking nearby.&gt;&gt; 

The took&nbsp; Belisle into custody and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, Speeding, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Reckless driving, Unsafe turning or stopping, Unlawful to drive in closed roadway, Possession of marijuana, Ignition interlock device and Interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728868833192.png" alt="Belisle photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Belisle photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect after a chase that started in a highway construction zone.Just after 3a.m. October 12, a deputy sheriff attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a red 2012 Buick Verano that disregarded closed roadways due to construction near SE 29th Street and SE Adams Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.The driver, later identified as 20-year-old Beau D. Belisle, refused to stop and initiated a pursuit. The deputy terminated the pursuit near SE 29th Street and SE Wisconsin Avenue due to safety concerns. Deputies continued to search the area and located the abandoned vehicle with the driver walking nearby.&gt;&gt; The took&nbsp; Belisle into custody and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, Speeding, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Reckless driving, Unsafe turning or stopping, Unlawful to drive in closed roadway, Possession of marijuana, Ignition interlock device and Interference with law enforcement.

Suspect jailed after chase through Kan. road construction zone

NEW YORK (AP) — The Small Business Administration has run out of money for the disaster assistance loans it offers small businesses, homeowners and renters, delaying much needed relief for people applying for aid in the wake of the destruction caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

The SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to businesses and people affected by disasters. The SBA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-helene-small-business-administration-milton-loans-f087fa405a3e0a9e691fd9c6192be259">warned earlier this month that it could run out of funding</a>, given the anticipated surge in claims from Hurricane Helene, without additional funding from Congress.

There are other disaster relief programs available, including assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA. The FEMA aid isn't affected by the SBA shortfall.

Helene was a Category 4 storm that first struck Florida’s Gulf Coast on September 26, dumped trillions of gallons of rain and left a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-helene-death-toll-asheville-north-carolina-34d1226bb31f79dfb2ff6827e40587fc">trail of destruction for hundreds of miles across several states</a>. Hurricane Milton swept across Florida two weeks later.

So far, the SBA has received around 37,000 applications for relief from those impacted by Hurricane Helene and made more than 700 loan offers totaling about $48 million. It has received 12,000 applications from those impacted by Hurricane Milton.

The SBA is pausing new loan offers until it gets more funding, which means loans that have not already been offered will be delayed by at least a month. SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman said people should keep applying for the loans, however.

“We know that swift financial relief can help communities recover quickly to stabilize local economies.” Guzman said in a statement. She added that the SBA will continue to process applications so assistance can be quickly disbursed once funds are replenished.

The SBA said it could also be able to make a small number of new loan offers during this time, if it gets more funds from loan cancellations or similar actions.

House Speaker Mike Johnson assured there would be strong support to provide necessary funds – when Congress returns after the November election.

“There’s no question these devastating back-to-back storms have stressed the SBA funding program,” Johnson, a Republican, said in a statement. “But the Biden-Harris Administration has the necessary disaster funding right now to address the immediate needs of American people in these hurricane affected areas.”

The speaker has declined to recall lawmakers back to Washington to vote on aid in the aftermath of deadly hurricanes and declined to do so now. He said Congress is tracking this situation closely.

“When Members return in just a few short weeks, the Administration should have an accurate assessment of the actual dollar amount needed and there will be strong bipartisan support to provide the necessary funding,” he said.

The SBA offers two different types of disaster loans. Business physical disaster loans are for repairing or replacing disaster-damaged property, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Economic injury disaster loans are working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations meet financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of a disaster.

Businesses can access loans up to $2 million. Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses and 3.25% for nonprofit organizations.

The SBA also offers disaster loans up to $500,000 to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property.

FEMA's disaster relief fund is a pot of money the agency uses to respond to disasters. The money pays for things like refunding state and local officials for debris removal and rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by disasters. FEMA also gives disaster survivors money for things like rent while their homes are uninhabitable or for emergency needs like diapers.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has repeatedly said that the disaster relief fund has enough money to respond to Helene and Milton. But Criswell has said that the agency eventually will need supplemental funding from Congress. If that doesn’t happen, the agency would go into what’s called “immediate needs funding.” That means the agency stops paying out for previous disasters and conserves its money for life-saving missions during any new ones.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729042223038.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The Small Business Administration has run out of money for the disaster assistance loans it offers small businesses, homeowners and renters, delaying much needed relief for people applying for aid in the wake of the destruction caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.The SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to businesses and people affected by disasters. The SBA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-helene-small-business-administration-milton-loans-f087fa405a3e0a9e691fd9c6192be259">warned earlier this month that it could run out of funding</a>, given the anticipated surge in claims from Hurricane Helene, without additional funding from Congress.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727712742274.png" alt="Photo North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson" />
 <figcaption>Photo North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson</figcaption>
 </figure>There are other disaster relief programs available, including assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA. The FEMA aid isn't affected by the SBA shortfall.Helene was a Category 4 storm that first struck Florida’s Gulf Coast on September 26, dumped trillions of gallons of rain and left a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-helene-death-toll-asheville-north-carolina-34d1226bb31f79dfb2ff6827e40587fc">trail of destruction for hundreds of miles across several states</a>. Hurricane Milton swept across Florida two weeks later.So far, the SBA has received around 37,000 applications for relief from those impacted by Hurricane Helene and made more than 700 loan offers totaling about $48 million. It has received 12,000 applications from those impacted by Hurricane Milton.The SBA is pausing new loan offers until it gets more funding, which means loans that have not already been offered will be delayed by at least a month. SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman said people should keep applying for the loans, however.“We know that swift financial relief can help communities recover quickly to stabilize local economies.” Guzman said in a statement. She added that the SBA will continue to process applications so assistance can be quickly disbursed once funds are replenished.The SBA said it could also be able to make a small number of new loan offers during this time, if it gets more funds from loan cancellations or similar actions.House Speaker Mike Johnson assured there would be strong support to provide necessary funds – when Congress returns after the November election.“There’s no question these devastating back-to-back storms have stressed the SBA funding program,” Johnson, a Republican, said in a statement. “But the Biden-Harris Administration has the necessary disaster funding right now to address the immediate needs of American people in these hurricane affected areas.”The speaker has declined to recall lawmakers back to Washington to vote on aid in the aftermath of deadly hurricanes and declined to do so now. He said Congress is tracking this situation closely.“When Members return in just a few short weeks, the Administration should have an accurate assessment of the actual dollar amount needed and there will be strong bipartisan support to provide the necessary funding,” he said.The SBA offers two different types of disaster loans. Business physical disaster loans are for repairing or replacing disaster-damaged property, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Economic injury disaster loans are working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations meet financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of a disaster.Businesses can access loans up to $2 million. Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses and 3.25% for nonprofit organizations.The SBA also offers disaster loans up to $500,000 to homeowners to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed personal property.FEMA's disaster relief fund is a pot of money the agency uses to respond to disasters. The money pays for things like refunding state and local officials for debris removal and rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by disasters. FEMA also gives disaster survivors money for things like rent while their homes are uninhabitable or for emergency needs like diapers.FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell has repeatedly said that the disaster relief fund has enough money to respond to Helene and Milton. But Criswell has said that the agency eventually will need supplemental funding from Congress. If that doesn’t happen, the agency would go into what’s called “immediate needs funding.” That means the agency stops paying out for previous disasters and conserves its money for life-saving missions during any new ones.

Small business disaster loan program is out of money until Congress takes action

KANSAS CITY—The Kansas City Public Safety Task Force closed the Westport Media Collective,&nbsp;315 Westport Road Suite 200, Kansas City, following a mass shooting and multiple complaints.

The business was operating without a valid license or a current fire marshal inspection, according to a media release from the Task Force.

"Kansas City government will take all steps available to ensure resident safety, including business closures for those endangering their customers and not complying with our laws," Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas wrote on his social media account.

On October 9, a shooting in the 300 block of Westport Road,&nbsp;injured four adults and a teenager.&nbsp; Police have not reported how or if the business was involved with the shooting. Police also have not reported an arrest or announced suspect details. The victims are&nbsp;expected to recover, according to KCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729073236258.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—The Kansas City Public Safety Task Force closed the Westport Media Collective,&nbsp;315 Westport Road Suite 200, Kansas City, following a mass shooting and multiple complaints.The business was operating without a valid license or a current fire marshal inspection, according to a media release from the Task Force.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kansas City government will take all steps available to ensure resident safety, including business closure for those endangering their customers and not compliant with our laws. Our City&#39;s public safety task force issued the following notice today regarding a Westport business. <a href="https://t.co/h44xa51YFk">pic.twitter.com/h44xa51YFk</a>&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1846310614869987488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Kansas City government will take all steps available to ensure resident safety, including business closures for those endangering their customers and not complying with our laws," Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas wrote on his social media account.On October 9, a shooting in the 300 block of Westport Road,&nbsp;injured four adults and a teenager.&nbsp; Police have not reported how or if the business was involved with the shooting. Police also have not reported an arrest or announced suspect details. The victims are&nbsp;expected to recover, according to KCPD.

Kansas City shuts down Westport business after mass shooting

WICHITA— The sentencing scheduled Wednesday for a Kansas man for kidnapping three children and sexually assaulting two of them&nbsp;last year has been continued to October 25, according to online records.

On Aug. 2, a jury convicted 23-year-old Manasseh Ward of kidnapping, four counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, three counts of aggravated sodomy, attempted rape, aggravated assault and interference with law enforcement, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In June, a judge ruled&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=246512">&nbsp;Ward</a>&nbsp; was competent to stand trial for charges.

Just before 4p.m. January 4, 2023, a teenage girl reported being kidnapped by a man driving a blue vehicle in the 6600 block of East Boston in Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch.

The man later identified as Ward attempted to sexually assault the girl in the car. Ward let the child go and she reported the incident to a family member.

Just before 9a.m. January 5, two elementary-aged children, a boy and girl, left their home on foot in the 900 block of South Drury to head to Clark Elementary School at 650 S Apache in Wichita.

A man in a blue vehicle kidnapped the children. The suspect put both kids in his vehicle and then drove away. A short time later he dropped the boy victim off and left with the girl..

While gathering information officers were patrolling the area and located the suspect vehicle and attempted to stop it. &nbsp;A brief foot pursuit occurred and officers took Ward into custody in the 6600 block of East Boston.&nbsp; In September, police arrested Ward in connection with the alleged crimes.

Ward is scheduled to be sentenced on September 27, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673003077182.png" alt="Ward photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Ward photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA— The sentencing scheduled Wednesday for a Kansas man for kidnapping three children and sexually assaulting two of them&nbsp;last year has been continued to October 25, according to online records.On Aug. 2, a jury convicted 23-year-old Manasseh Ward of kidnapping, four counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, three counts of aggravated sodomy, attempted rape, aggravated assault and interference with law enforcement, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In June, a judge ruled&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=246512">&nbsp;Ward</a>&nbsp; was competent to stand trial for charges.Just before 4p.m. January 4, 2023, a teenage girl reported being kidnapped by a man driving a blue vehicle in the 6600 block of East Boston in Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch.The man later identified as Ward attempted to sexually assault the girl in the car. Ward let the child go and she reported the incident to a family member.Just before 9a.m. January 5, two elementary-aged children, a boy and girl, left their home on foot in the 900 block of South Drury to head to Clark Elementary School at 650 S Apache in Wichita.A man in a blue vehicle kidnapped the children. The suspect put both kids in his vehicle and then drove away. A short time later he dropped the boy victim off and left with the girl..While gathering information officers were patrolling the area and located the suspect vehicle and attempted to stop it. &nbsp;A brief foot pursuit occurred and officers took Ward into custody in the 6600 block of East Boston.&nbsp; In September, police arrested Ward in connection with the alleged crimes.Ward is scheduled to be sentenced on September 27, according to the district attorney's office.

Sentencing delayed for sex crimes near Kan. elementary school

KANSAS CITY—Five were rescued from an apartment building fire Tuesday in Kansas City.

Just after 5:30a.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a reported apartment building fire in the 300 block of Gladestone Boulevard, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

&nbsp;Crews reported heavy fire and smoke on the first floor of a four-story apartment building. Crews initiated an interior offensive attack. Multiple reports of trapped occupants due to heavy smoke conditions throughout the structure.

KCFD executed a total of five rescues from the second, third and fourth floors. Four occupants were transported for smoke inhalation to be evaluated. All patients were in stable condition. Red Cross has been ordered for 13 adults and 3 children. No other injuries were reported. The fire was contained to a single apartment, however, there is smoke damage throughout the building.&nbsp;

Investigators classified the cause of the fire as accidental and undetermined. The origin of the fire was determined to involve an electric baseboard heater, according toHopkins. However, investigators were unable to determine if there was an electrical failure of the heater or if radiant heat onto flammable items was the cause. This is due to the extensive damage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728998256050.png" alt="Photo&nbsp;KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo&nbsp;KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Five were rescued from an apartment building fire Tuesday in Kansas City.Just after 5:30a.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a reported apartment building fire in the 300 block of Gladestone Boulevard, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.&nbsp;Crews reported heavy fire and smoke on the first floor of a four-story apartment building. Crews initiated an interior offensive attack. Multiple reports of trapped occupants due to heavy smoke conditions throughout the structure.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728998113417.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KCFD executed a total of five rescues from the second, third and fourth floors. Four occupants were transported for smoke inhalation to be evaluated. All patients were in stable condition. Red Cross has been ordered for 13 adults and 3 children. No other injuries were reported. The fire was contained to a single apartment, however, there is smoke damage throughout the building.&nbsp;Investigators classified the cause of the fire as accidental and undetermined. The origin of the fire was determined to involve an electric baseboard heater, according toHopkins. However, investigators were unable to determine if there was an electrical failure of the heater or if radiant heat onto flammable items was the cause. This is due to the extensive damage.

Five rescued after Kansas City apartment building fire

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged counterfeiting and asking the public for help to identify suspects, according to Lenexa Police.

The two individuals shown on security cameras are part of the investigation. They are suspected of passing counterfeit bills at area retailers. They may be driving a black SUV, according to police. If you recognize them, please call the detective in Lenexa at&nbsp; 913-825-8097.

Police also mention, "The magic photo enhancer like in the movies is currently not operational."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729017004777.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged counterfeiting and asking the public for help to identify suspects, according to Lenexa Police.The two individuals shown on security cameras are part of the investigation. They are suspected of passing counterfeit bills at area retailers. They may be driving a black SUV, according to police. If you recognize them, please call the detective in Lenexa at&nbsp; 913-825-8097.Police also mention, "The magic photo enhancer like in the movies is currently not operational."

Police ask for help to ID suspects in Kan. counterfeit bill investigation

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon announced Tuesday that more than 800 military personnel have seen their service records upgraded to honorable discharges after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-gay-pardon-biden-benefits-b181478e4bfeda52de82a129b7c60857">previously being kicked out of the military</a>&nbsp;under its former “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.

It is the latest development over the decades to undo past discrimination against LGBTQ service members.

The 1951 Uniform Code of Military Justice's Article 125 had criminalized consensual gay sex. In 1993, former President Bill Clinton modified the military's policy to “don’t ask, don’t tell,” which allowed LGBTQ troops to serve in the armed forces if they didn’t disclose their sexual orientation.

That policy was repealed in 2011, when Congress allowed for their open service in the military. The 1951 UCMJ code was modified in 2013 to be limited to nonconsensual gay sex.

President Joe Biden in June announced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-lgbtq-pride-pardon-military-pentagon-sodomy-a83b799323380de10aac0ca6fb57595b">he was issuing pardons</a>&nbsp;to service members convicted under repealed military policies.

Under “don't ask, don't tell,” thousands of service members still saw their military service ended without an honorable discharge, meaning they did not receive the military benefits they would have otherwise, such as education benefits, and it also could have affected their ability to apply for jobs or loans.

Last year, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-lgbtq-dont-ask-dont-tell-571491100b592ab7d86e99e2e2bbf5bb">ordered a review of cases</a>&nbsp;of former service members who might have been affected by the policy.

The Pentagon estimates about 13,500 service members in total were released from military service under “don't ask, don't tell.” With the review and upgrades of the more than 800 troops announced Tuesday, the Pentagon said that about 96% of the 13,500 personnel affected by the policy now have received an honorable discharge.

Not every case of the 13,500 needed review — some of those personnel either did not serve long enough to qualify for benefits, they were released with an honorable discharge at the time, they already had their discharges upgraded through other means, or they did not qualify for an upgrade due to other violations.

“We will continue to honor the service and the sacrifice of all our troops — including the brave Americans who raised their hands to serve but were turned away because of whom they love. We will continue to strive to do right by every American patriot who has honorably served their country,” Austin said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716227898108.png" alt="File photo U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin" />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon announced Tuesday that more than 800 military personnel have seen their service records upgraded to honorable discharges after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-gay-pardon-biden-benefits-b181478e4bfeda52de82a129b7c60857">previously being kicked out of the military</a>&nbsp;under its former “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.It is the latest development over the decades to undo past discrimination against LGBTQ service members.The 1951 Uniform Code of Military Justice's Article 125 had criminalized consensual gay sex. In 1993, former President Bill Clinton modified the military's policy to “don’t ask, don’t tell,” which allowed LGBTQ troops to serve in the armed forces if they didn’t disclose their sexual orientation.That policy was repealed in 2011, when Congress allowed for their open service in the military. The 1951 UCMJ code was modified in 2013 to be limited to nonconsensual gay sex.President Joe Biden in June announced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-lgbtq-pride-pardon-military-pentagon-sodomy-a83b799323380de10aac0ca6fb57595b">he was issuing pardons</a>&nbsp;to service members convicted under repealed military policies.Under “don't ask, don't tell,” thousands of service members still saw their military service ended without an honorable discharge, meaning they did not receive the military benefits they would have otherwise, such as education benefits, and it also could have affected their ability to apply for jobs or loans.Last year, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-lgbtq-dont-ask-dont-tell-571491100b592ab7d86e99e2e2bbf5bb">ordered a review of cases</a>&nbsp;of former service members who might have been affected by the policy.The Pentagon estimates about 13,500 service members in total were released from military service under “don't ask, don't tell.” With the review and upgrades of the more than 800 troops announced Tuesday, the Pentagon said that about 96% of the 13,500 personnel affected by the policy now have received an honorable discharge.Not every case of the 13,500 needed review — some of those personnel either did not serve long enough to qualify for benefits, they were released with an honorable discharge at the time, they already had their discharges upgraded through other means, or they did not qualify for an upgrade due to other violations.“We will continue to honor the service and the sacrifice of all our troops — including the brave Americans who raised their hands to serve but were turned away because of whom they love. We will continue to strive to do right by every American patriot who has honorably served their country,” Austin said in a statement.

U.S. troops kicked out under 'don't ask, don't tell' get upgraded to honorable discharges

TEXAS COUNTY, Missouri —Two adults and a child died in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Texas County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2000 Lincoln passenger car driven by Tommy L. Federico, 23, Roby, was southbound on MO 17 ten miles north of Houston, Missouri.

The car traveled off the right side of the road, returned to the road, began to skid sideways, crossed the center line and struck a northbound 2022 Ford pickup driven by John W. Raney, 26, Houston, Missouri, head-on.

Federico and passengers in the Lincoln Helen L. Drury, 26, and a 5-year-old girl both of Roby were pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Evans Funeral Home. Children's Mercy Critical Care transport aircraft transported a 3-year-old girl in the car to Children's Mercy in Kansas City. Mercy Lifeline transported a 1-year-0ld boy in the car to&nbsp;University Hospital in Columbia.

Raney was not injured. The two adults in the car were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

TEXAS COUNTY, Missouri —Two adults and a child died in an accident just before 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Texas County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 2000 Lincoln passenger car driven by Tommy L. Federico, 23, Roby, was southbound on MO 17 ten miles north of Houston, Missouri.The car traveled off the right side of the road, returned to the road, began to skid sideways, crossed the center line and struck a northbound 2022 Ford pickup driven by John W. Raney, 26, Houston, Missouri, head-on.Federico and passengers in the Lincoln Helen L. Drury, 26, and a 5-year-old girl both of Roby were pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Evans Funeral Home. Children's Mercy Critical Care transport aircraft transported a 3-year-old girl in the car to Children's Mercy in Kansas City. Mercy Lifeline transported a 1-year-0ld boy in the car to&nbsp;University Hospital in Columbia.Raney was not injured. The two adults in the car were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

3-year-old hospitalized in KC after 3 killed in head-on crash

KANSAS CITY – Fifteen more defendants including eleven from Kansas have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a drug-trafficking conspiracy after law enforcement officers seized 100 pounds of methamphetamine and a kilogram of fentanyl pills hidden in a vehicle being transported from San Bernadino, California to Springfield, Missouri, according to the United State's Attorney.

Stevie Delane Logan, Jr., 34, Daron Cortez Kelly, 36, Damion Williams, 34, Necole Jennings, 47, Osric Rashaad Edwards, 25, Shawn Weston Morris, 54, and Rikkita Charnay Tolbert, 37, all of Parsons, Kansas; William Edward McKinzie, 52, Juston Dean Crane, 39, and Gary Jay Watkins, Jr., 54, all of Joplin, Missouri; James Richard Sharp, 55, of Seneca, Missouri; Jon Kurtis Smith, 39, of El Dorado, Kansas; Christuffer Allen Roeder, 28, of Independence, Kansas; William Earl Troester, Jr., 45, of Wichita, Kansas and Kylei Paige Sullivan, 27, of St. Paul, Kansas, were charged in an 18-count second superseding indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Missouri.. That indictment was unsealed and made public&nbsp; following the arrests of all remaining defendants.

The initial indictment in this case charged Dontrell Anthony Powell, 34, and his brother, Dreshawn Powell, 27, both of Springfield, and Willie Murry, Jr., 42, and Mark Monta Logan, 33, both of Parsons, on Feb. 6, 2024. They remain as defendants in this second superseding indictment.

The federal indictment alleges that 17 of the defendants, with the exceptions of Tolbert and Sullivan, participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in Greene, Jasper, and Newton Counties, and elsewhere, from Jan. 1, 2022, to April 20, 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728591106721.png" alt="William Troester is being held in Butler County" />
 <figcaption>William Troester is being held in Butler County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – Fifteen more defendants including eleven from Kansas have been indicted by a federal grand jury for their roles in a drug-trafficking conspiracy after law enforcement officers seized 100 pounds of methamphetamine and a kilogram of fentanyl pills hidden in a vehicle being transported from San Bernadino, California to Springfield, Missouri, according to the United State's Attorney.Stevie Delane Logan, Jr., 34, Daron Cortez Kelly, 36, Damion Williams, 34, Necole Jennings, 47, Osric Rashaad Edwards, 25, Shawn Weston Morris, 54, and Rikkita Charnay Tolbert, 37, all of Parsons, Kansas; William Edward McKinzie, 52, Juston Dean Crane, 39, and Gary Jay Watkins, Jr., 54, all of Joplin, Missouri; James Richard Sharp, 55, of Seneca, Missouri; Jon Kurtis Smith, 39, of El Dorado, Kansas; Christuffer Allen Roeder, 28, of Independence, Kansas; William Earl Troester, Jr., 45, of Wichita, Kansas and Kylei Paige Sullivan, 27, of St. Paul, Kansas, were charged in an 18-count second superseding indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Missouri.. That indictment was unsealed and made public&nbsp; following the arrests of all remaining defendants.The initial indictment in this case charged Dontrell Anthony Powell, 34, and his brother, Dreshawn Powell, 27, both of Springfield, and Willie Murry, Jr., 42, and Mark Monta Logan, 33, both of Parsons, on Feb. 6, 2024. They remain as defendants in this second superseding indictment.The federal indictment alleges that 17 of the defendants, with the exceptions of Tolbert and Sullivan, participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in Greene, Jasper, and Newton Counties, and elsewhere, from Jan. 1, 2022, to April 20, 2024.The federal indictment also alleges that 14 of the defendants, with the exceptions of McKinzie, Crane, Morris, Sharp, and Watkins, participated in a money-laundering conspiracy.Several defendants also are charged in various counts related to drug trafficking and illegally possessing firearms.According to court documents, investigation into the drug-trafficking organization began when a Trooper with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol searched a vehicle on a car hauler at a truck stop in Oklahoma City, Okla., on Jan. 17, 2024. The Trooper found approximately 100 pounds of methamphetamine and two pounds of fentanyl pills hidden in a subwoofer speaker box in the cargo area of the car, a Dodge Magnum. The driver of the car hauler, who was not involved in the drug shipment, agreed to deliver the Dodge Magnum to its destination at a parking lot in Springfield.Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration removed the fentanyl pills from the Dodge Magnum and replaced most of the methamphetamine with sham methamphetamine before conducting a controlled delivery of the vehicle the next morning. On January 18, 2024, Dontrell Powell and Dreshawn Powell arrived at the parking lot together in a Mercedes while Murry and Mark Logan arrived together in a BMW. Dontrell Powell met with the driver of the car hauler to sign for the Dodge Magnum and attempted to start the vehicle, but the battery was dead. Murray and Mark Logan helped jump start the Dodge Magnum, and Dontrell Powell drove it out of the parking lot as the other three men followed in their vehicles. Agents followed the three vehicles to Dontrell Powell’s residence, where they were arrested.Agents also searched Dontrell Powell’s residence and found, in addition to the controlled delivery from the Dodge Magnum, an AM-15 pistol, .223 ammunition, several high-capacity magazines with ammunition, more than $100,000 in cash, and drug paraphernalia. Agents also found a loaded Glock pistol in one of the vehicles, numerous cell phones, four more large subwoofer boxes (two of which contained shards of crystal methamphetamine), and drug paraphernalia.Following the controlled delivery of the Dodge Magnum, agents obtained a court order authorizing the interception of wire and electronic communications over three cellular phones being utilized by Mark Logan’s brother, Stevie Logan, in connection with his distribution of methamphetamine.The investigation culminated on April 20, 2024, when Stevie Logan received a call from McKinzie requesting methamphetamine. Stevie Logan directed Kelly and Williams to retrieve methamphetamine from Jennings’ residence in Parsons, Kan. Kelly and Williams picked Stevie Logan up from a gas station in Pittsburg, Kan., and the three men traveled to a hotel in Joplin, Mo. As McKinzie approached the vehicle, all four men were arrested. Agents searched the vehicle and located approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine inside of a large tub.Agents also searched McKinzie’s hotel room and located an additional five ounces of methamphetamine and three firearms.In addition to the two conspiracies, Dontrell Powell is charged with one count of money laundering, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dontrell Powell allegedly possessed an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 multi-caliber semi-automatic pistol and a Glock .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol on January 18, 2024. Dontrell Powell allegedly possessed another Glock .40-caliber semi-automatic pistol on June 12, 2022. Dontrell Powell is subject to enhanced penalties resulting from a prior felony conviction for possession of dangerous drugs for sale.Dontrell Powell, Murry, Dreshawn Powell, and Mark Logan are charged together in one count of attempting to possess methamphetamine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute.Murry and Mark Logan also are charged together in one count of traveling across state lines from Kansas to Missouri with the intent to carry on or facilitate an unlawful activity (possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl).Stevie Logan, Kelly, Williams, and Jennings are charged together in one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and McKinzie is charged with one count of attempting to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.Stevie Logan, Kelly, and Williams are charged together in one count of traveling across state lines from Kansas to Missouri with the intent to carry on or facilitate an unlawful activity (possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine).McKinzie also is charged with one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms. McKinzie allegedly possessed an Arcadia Machine &amp; Tool .45-caliber pistol, a Ruger 9mm pistol, and a Sundance .25-caliber pistol on April 20, 2024.Sharp also is charged with two counts of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. Sharp allegedly possessed a Sig Sauer .45-caliber pistol on May 3, 2021.Crane also is charged with one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.