WASHINGTON (AP)— Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the total number of rocket and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria has risen to 27, including 6 small scale attacks that have taken place since U.S. warplanes struck weapons storage areas for Iranian-backed militias in Syria last week.

In total there have been 16 attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and 11 in Syria.

In addition, Ryder said the Pentagon is sending an additional 300 troops to the Middle East who specialize in explosive ordinance disposal and communications. Those forces will be there to bolster U.S. troops already in the region, Ryder said.

Meanwhile, dozens of people entered the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt on Wednesday. It appeared to be the first time foreign passport holders have been allowed to leave the besieged territory since the start of the Israel-Hamas war more than three weeks ago.

Early Wednesday, providers Paltel and Jawwal reported a “complete disruption” of communications and internet services in Gaza, the second major cut in five days. Humanitarian aid agencies have warned that such blackouts severely disrupt their work in an already dire situation in Gaza.

The Palestinian death toll in the Israel-Hamas war has reached 8,525, according to the Hamas-run&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Gaza</a>. In the occupied West Bank, more than 122 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, most of them civilians slain in the initial Oct. 7 Hamas rampage that started the fighting. In addition, around 240 hostages were taken from Israel into Gaza by the militant group. One of the captives, a female Israeli soldier,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-gaza-war-news-10-30-2023-131e9537aaad8e74586cc114d2668e5a">was rescued</a>&nbsp;in a special forces operation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698795699009.png" alt="-A sailor assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU 6), maintains security on the flight deck of the USS Normandy during training in the Adriatic Sea, Oct. 30, 2023.&nbsp;Photo By:Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Malachi Lakey" />
 <figcaption>-A sailor assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU 6), maintains security on the flight deck of the USS Normandy during training in the Adriatic Sea, Oct. 30, 2023.&nbsp;Photo By:Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Malachi Lakey</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)— Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the total number of rocket and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria has risen to 27, including 6 small scale attacks that have taken place since U.S. warplanes struck weapons storage areas for Iranian-backed militias in Syria last week.In total there have been 16 attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and 11 in Syria.In addition, Ryder said the Pentagon is sending an additional 300 troops to the Middle East who specialize in explosive ordinance disposal and communications. Those forces will be there to bolster U.S. troops already in the region, Ryder said.Meanwhile, dozens of people entered the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt on Wednesday. It appeared to be the first time foreign passport holders have been allowed to leave the besieged territory since the start of the Israel-Hamas war more than three weeks ago.Early Wednesday, providers Paltel and Jawwal reported a “complete disruption” of communications and internet services in Gaza, the second major cut in five days. Humanitarian aid agencies have warned that such blackouts severely disrupt their work in an already dire situation in Gaza.The Palestinian death toll in the Israel-Hamas war has reached 8,525, according to the Hamas-run&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Gaza</a>. In the occupied West Bank, more than 122 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids.More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, most of them civilians slain in the initial Oct. 7 Hamas rampage that started the fighting. In addition, around 240 hostages were taken from Israel into Gaza by the militant group. One of the captives, a female Israeli soldier,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-gaza-war-news-10-30-2023-131e9537aaad8e74586cc114d2668e5a">was rescued</a>&nbsp;in a special forces operation.

More U.S. troops to Middle East after more attacks on U.S. bases 

ALLEN COUNTY —A week after assaulting a police officer, a woman being held in a Kansas jail is accused of attempting to kill another person

According to the Allen County Sheriff, deputies arrested 26-year-old Raven Gomez and her boyfriend 45-year-old Brandon David at a rural residence south of Moran, Kansas following the violent assault of a police officer in Jasper, Missouri.

Held in the Allen County, Kansas jail since her arrest, Gomez allegedly assault another woman in custody with a meal tray during lunch. The attack caused the inmate to fall on the floor and her glasses were broken when Gomez possibly stepped on them. Holding onto the woman's hair, Gomez used a piece of the broken glass as a weapon and struck the inmate in her face, neck, head and other parts of the body.

Gomez later told investigators she planned the attack and intended to kill the other inmate, according to the Allen County Sheriff. Gomez remains jailed on a $100,000 bond.

ALLEN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an altercation with police.

Just before 9p.m. Oct. 16, a Jasper, Missouri&nbsp; police officer responded to a disturbance in progress at Pete’s Convenience Store in Jasper. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with 26-year-old Raven Gomez and 45-year-old Brandon David both of Columbia.

During a pat search for weapons on Gomez, she punched the officer in the face, knocked the female officer to the ground causing her to hit her head on the pavement.

The hit to the pavement caused the officer to become disoriented

Brandon David got out of the passenger seat of the suspect vehicle, and punched the female officer several times in the face and then ran around to the driver’s seat of the patrol vehicle and it appears he was attempting to steal it.

Police believe he wasn’t smart enough to figure out how to put the vehicle in drive due to the different gear shift newer vehicles have.

Gomez who was the driver of the suspect vehicle got into her vehicle and while backing up, the vehicle’s tire ran over the officer’s foot, and again ran over the officer’s foot when moving forward.

David ended up getting out of the patrol vehicle and back into the suspect vehicle. The two were able to get away, last seen northbound on Interstate 49 in a dark blue Chevy Cruze with a Missouri license of BG1B5C.

&nbsp;The officer was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for her injuries and released.&nbsp;

Deputies tracked these two down to a property five miles southeast of Moran, Kansas Wednesday evening.&nbsp; Deputies and assisted by&nbsp;Bourbon County Kansas Sheriff's Office&nbsp;deputies, took the suspects into custody without incident.

Jasper County prosecutors have officially filed 1st degree assault charges on both Gomez and David with bond set at $50,000 cash only and other conditions. They face additional charges in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697765737908.png" alt="Gomez-photo Allen County" />
 <figcaption>Gomez-photo Allen County</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLEN COUNTY —A week after assaulting a police officer, a woman being held in a Kansas jail is accused of attempting to kill another personAccording to the Allen County Sheriff, deputies arrested 26-year-old Raven Gomez and her boyfriend 45-year-old Brandon David at a rural residence south of Moran, Kansas following the violent assault of a police officer in Jasper, Missouri.Held in the Allen County, Kansas jail since her arrest, Gomez allegedly assault another woman in custody with a meal tray during lunch. The attack caused the inmate to fall on the floor and her glasses were broken when Gomez possibly stepped on them. Holding onto the woman's hair, Gomez used a piece of the broken glass as a weapon and struck the inmate in her face, neck, head and other parts of the body.Gomez later told investigators she planned the attack and intended to kill the other inmate, according to the Allen County Sheriff. Gomez remains jailed on a $100,000 bond.--------------------ALLEN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an altercation with police.Just before 9p.m. Oct. 16, a Jasper, Missouri&nbsp; police officer responded to a disturbance in progress at Pete’s Convenience Store in Jasper. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with 26-year-old Raven Gomez and 45-year-old Brandon David both of Columbia.During a pat search for weapons on Gomez, she punched the officer in the face, knocked the female officer to the ground causing her to hit her head on the pavement.The hit to the pavement caused the officer to become disorientedBrandon David got out of the passenger seat of the suspect vehicle, and punched the female officer several times in the face and then ran around to the driver’s seat of the patrol vehicle and it appears he was attempting to steal it.Police believe he wasn’t smart enough to figure out how to put the vehicle in drive due to the different gear shift newer vehicles have.Gomez who was the driver of the suspect vehicle got into her vehicle and while backing up, the vehicle’s tire ran over the officer’s foot, and again ran over the officer’s foot when moving forward.David ended up getting out of the patrol vehicle and back into the suspect vehicle. The two were able to get away, last seen northbound on Interstate 49 in a dark blue Chevy Cruze with a Missouri license of BG1B5C.&nbsp;The officer was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for her injuries and released.&nbsp;Deputies tracked these two down to a property five miles southeast of Moran, Kansas Wednesday evening.&nbsp; Deputies and assisted by&nbsp;Bourbon County Kansas Sheriff's Office&nbsp;deputies, took the suspects into custody without incident.Jasper County prosecutors have officially filed 1st degree assault charges on both Gomez and David with bond set at $50,000 cash only and other conditions. They face additional charges in Kansas.

Woman who punched officer wanted to kill Kan. jail inmate

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a violent attack on a woman in southwest Kansas.

Just after 8 p.m., October 27, police were dispatched to the 600 block of N. 10th Street for a reported stabbing, according to a media release.

First responders found an 80-year-old woman with wounds believed to have been caused by a machete. Through the investigation, police identified 32-year-old Zachary Porter as the suspect and took him into custody.

The victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment of injuries.

Porter is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Attempted Second-Degree Murder.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698715603812.png" alt="Porter photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Porter photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a violent attack on a woman in southwest Kansas.Just after 8 p.m., October 27, police were dispatched to the 600 block of N. 10th Street for a reported stabbing, according to a media release.First responders found an 80-year-old woman with wounds believed to have been caused by a machete. Through the investigation, police identified 32-year-old Zachary Porter as the suspect and took him into custody.The victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment of injuries.Porter is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Attempted Second-Degree Murder.&nbsp;

80-year-old SW Kan. woman injured in machete attack

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Missouri appeals court ruled Tuesday against Republican-written summaries of abortion-rights ballot measures that described several proposed amendments as allowing “dangerous and unregulated abortions until live birth.”

A three-judge panel of the Western District Court of Appeals found the summaries written by Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor in 2024, are politically partisan.

Ashcroft’s original description would ask voters whether they want to “allow for dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted abortions, from conception to live birth, without requiring a medical license or potentially being subject to medical malpractice.”

If supporters gather enough voter signatures, the abortion-rights constitutional amendments would go before Missouri voters in 2024.

The judges largely upheld summaries that were rewritten by a lower court judge to be more impartial.

Ballot summaries are used on Missouri ballots to help voters understand sometimes lengthy and complex constitutional amendments and policy changes.

The summaries approved by the appeals court would tell voters the amendments would “establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives” and “remove Missouri’s ban on abortion.”

Ashcroft said he plans to appeal the ruling.

“We stand by our language and believe it fairly and accurately reflects the scope and magnitude of each petition,” Ashcroft said in a statement.

Abortion-rights proponents lauded the Tuesday ruling.

“Today, the courts upheld Missourians’ constitutional right to direct democracy over the self-serving attacks of politicians desperately seeking to climb the political ladder," the ACLU of Missouri said in a statement. It called the decision "a complete rebuke of the combined efforts from the Attorney General and Secretary of State to interfere and deny Missourian’s their right to initiative process.”

Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey's office is defending Ashcroft's summary language in court.

Missouri is among several states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2023-abortion-ohio-lawsuit-ballot-what-eee58d5aa172d783598f805ea5774fd5">including Ohio</a>, where abortion opponents are fighting efforts to ensure or restore access to the procedure following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">the fall of Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698783687898.png" alt="Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey speaks to reporters Monday outside the Western District Court of Appeals building in Kansas City while Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft waits for his turn the microphones. Bailey and Ashcroft had just attended arguments over the abortion initiative ballot titles rewritten by a Cole County judge (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey speaks to reporters Monday outside the Western District Court of Appeals building in Kansas City while Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft waits for his turn the microphones. Bailey and Ashcroft had just attended arguments over the abortion initiative ballot titles rewritten by a Cole County judge (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Missouri appeals court ruled Tuesday against Republican-written summaries of abortion-rights ballot measures that described several proposed amendments as allowing “dangerous and unregulated abortions until live birth.”A three-judge panel of the Western District Court of Appeals found the summaries written by Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor in 2024, are politically partisan.Ashcroft’s original description would ask voters whether they want to “allow for dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted abortions, from conception to live birth, without requiring a medical license or potentially being subject to medical malpractice.”If supporters gather enough voter signatures, the abortion-rights constitutional amendments would go before Missouri voters in 2024.The judges largely upheld summaries that were rewritten by a lower court judge to be more impartial.Ballot summaries are used on Missouri ballots to help voters understand sometimes lengthy and complex constitutional amendments and policy changes.The summaries approved by the appeals court would tell voters the amendments would “establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives” and “remove Missouri’s ban on abortion.”Ashcroft said he plans to appeal the ruling.“We stand by our language and believe it fairly and accurately reflects the scope and magnitude of each petition,” Ashcroft said in a statement.Abortion-rights proponents lauded the Tuesday ruling.“Today, the courts upheld Missourians’ constitutional right to direct democracy over the self-serving attacks of politicians desperately seeking to climb the political ladder," the ACLU of Missouri said in a statement. It called the decision "a complete rebuke of the combined efforts from the Attorney General and Secretary of State to interfere and deny Missourian’s their right to initiative process.”Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey's office is defending Ashcroft's summary language in court.Missouri is among several states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2023-abortion-ohio-lawsuit-ballot-what-eee58d5aa172d783598f805ea5774fd5">including Ohio</a>, where abortion opponents are fighting efforts to ensure or restore access to the procedure following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">the fall of Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;last year.——-

Court rules against Mo. ballot summary language that described 'dangerous' abortions

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As part of the Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College, Dr. Temple Grandin spoke Tuesday about different kinds of thinkers.

"I've got a new book, Visual Thinking, I've got a couple of copies with me," Grandin said. "The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions. Research shows, there's people like me that are object visualizers. Everything I think about's a picture. It's not words. My kind of mind is good at art, skilled trades, mechanical, all kinds of mechanical things, photography and working with animals. Animals don't think in words. The thing that my kind of mind is terrible at is algebra. You need us. If you want to have the infrastructure keep working? Let me tell you, you need us non-mathematicians. Then, when you go back to the food processing plant, my kind of mind makes all the mechanical equipment, but we need the mathematicians for boilers and refrigerations. I noticed you had a boiler factory here in town. You need both kinds of minds and you have your more mathematical, pattern thinker. Your pattern thinkers, music and math go together. In the visual thinking, art and mechanics go together. I know it sounds crazy, but, it's true. I write about it in my book."

Grandin said a lot of people are mixtures of the different kinds of thinking.

"When a kid gets a label, you tend to have, autism, dyslexia, ADHD, whatever, they tend to be much more uneven in skills," Grandin said. "An extreme object visualizer or an extreme mathematician. The verbal thinkers, one of the things they tend to do is over generalize. You have this big concept, like inclusive classroom, let's just say that. My mind thinks more bottom up. What are things I can do to make a classroom inclusive? Get bullying under control. Get rid of LED lights that flicker. Some of the people with head injuries, dyslexia and some other conditions have problems with the flicker of flourescent lights. You can find it with slow motion video on your phone. The other thing is, I have a very bad working memory. I do not remember long lists of verbal information. Tests that have a sequence, let me have a pilot's checklist."

Grandin did note that it is harder for people who think visually to succeed in traditional academics.

"The next Temple Grandin is getting screened out by the algebra requirement," Grandin said. "I am not kidding. I've talked to students who want to become veterinary nurses on their third algebra class. How about geometry? How about statistics, or maybe accounting, or maybe business math, practical math, like a shop. That's keeping a lot of them out, but you need us."

Grandin's latest book is a New York Times best-seller.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698771018567.jpeg" alt="Dr. Temple Grandin-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Temple Grandin-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — As part of the Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College, Dr. Temple Grandin spoke Tuesday about different kinds of thinkers."I've got a new book, Visual Thinking, I've got a couple of copies with me," Grandin said. "The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions. Research shows, there's people like me that are object visualizers. Everything I think about's a picture. It's not words. My kind of mind is good at art, skilled trades, mechanical, all kinds of mechanical things, photography and working with animals. Animals don't think in words. The thing that my kind of mind is terrible at is algebra. You need us. If you want to have the infrastructure keep working? Let me tell you, you need us non-mathematicians. Then, when you go back to the food processing plant, my kind of mind makes all the mechanical equipment, but we need the mathematicians for boilers and refrigerations. I noticed you had a boiler factory here in town. You need both kinds of minds and you have your more mathematical, pattern thinker. Your pattern thinkers, music and math go together. In the visual thinking, art and mechanics go together. I know it sounds crazy, but, it's true. I write about it in my book."Grandin said a lot of people are mixtures of the different kinds of thinking."When a kid gets a label, you tend to have, autism, dyslexia, ADHD, whatever, they tend to be much more uneven in skills," Grandin said. "An extreme object visualizer or an extreme mathematician. The verbal thinkers, one of the things they tend to do is over generalize. You have this big concept, like inclusive classroom, let's just say that. My mind thinks more bottom up. What are things I can do to make a classroom inclusive? Get bullying under control. Get rid of LED lights that flicker. Some of the people with head injuries, dyslexia and some other conditions have problems with the flicker of flourescent lights. You can find it with slow motion video on your phone. The other thing is, I have a very bad working memory. I do not remember long lists of verbal information. Tests that have a sequence, let me have a pilot's checklist."Grandin did note that it is harder for people who think visually to succeed in traditional academics."The next Temple Grandin is getting screened out by the algebra requirement," Grandin said. "I am not kidding. I've talked to students who want to become veterinary nurses on their third algebra class. How about geometry? How about statistics, or maybe accounting, or maybe business math, practical math, like a shop. That's keeping a lot of them out, but you need us."Grandin's latest book is a New York Times best-seller.

Dr. Temple Grandin discusses her new book at Dillon Lecture Series

WASHINGTON (AP) — The nation's top military and diplomatic leaders urged an increasingly divided Congress on Tuesday to send major immediate aid to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine</a>, arguing at a Senate hearing that broad support for the assistance would signal U.S. strength to adversaries worldwide.

The testimony from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken came as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">administration’s massive $105 billion emergency aid request</a>&nbsp;for conflicts in the two countries encountered roadblocks.

While there is bipartisan support in the Democratic-led Senate for aid to both Ukraine and Israel, the request faces deep problems in the Republican-led House.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-republicans-emmer-mccarthy-54352a64be041cd445bda8df28b24f03">New Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;has proposed focusing on Israel alone, and slashing money for the Internal Revenue Service to pay for it.

(click below to watch Senator Moran's opening statement )

As the congressional divisions deepen, Blinken and Austin warned that the consequences of failing to help Ukraine in its war with Russia and Israel as it strikes back against Hamas would be dire. Inaction, they said, would threaten the security of the U.S. and the rest of the world.

“We now stand at a moment where many are again making the bet that the United States is too divided or distracted at home to stay the course,” Blinken said. “That is what is at stake.”

Austin said that if the United States fails to lead, ”the cost and the threats to the United States will only grow. We must not give our friends, our rivals, or our foes any reason to doubt America’s resolve."

Biden has requested $14.3 billion for Israel, $61.4 billion to support Ukraine, $9.1 billion for humanitarian efforts in Gaza and elsewhere and $7.4 billion for the Indo-Pacific, where the U.S. is focused on countering China's influence. Some of the Ukraine funding would go toward replenishing domestic stockpiles of weapons that have already been provided.

The White House has also requested roughly $14 billion to protect the U.S. border. That money would be used to boost the number of border agents, install new inspection machines to detect fentanyl and to increase staffing for processing asylum cases.

But the House is trying to set aside much of Biden's request for now to focus on a roughly $14.5 billion package for Israel. That plan faced immediate resistance among Senate Democrats — and put pressure on the Senate Republicans who support the Ukraine aid but are conscious of growing concerns about it within their party.

Speaking on the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the House proposal "is clearly designed to divide Congress on a partisan basis, not unite us.” He said he hopes Johnson realizes he made a “grave mistake” and reverses course.

The two Cabinet secretaries argued that the aid should be tied together because the conflicts are interconnected. Blinken said that assisting Ukraine and Israel will strengthen the U.S. position against Iran, which is the biggest financial backer of Hamas.

“Since we cut off Russia’s traditional means of supplying its military, it has turned more and more to Iran for assistance,” Blinken said. “In return, Moscow has supplied Iran with increasingly advanced military technology, which poses a threat to Israel’s security. Allowing Russia to prevail with Iran’s support will embolden both Moscow and Tehran.”

Austin said the money would help Israel and Ukraine defend themselves against aggression — and also replenish U.S. stockpiles.

“In both Israel and Ukraine, democracies are fighting ruthless foes bent on their annihilation,” Austin said. “We will not let Hamas or Putin win. Today’s battles against aggression and terrorism will define global security for years to come.”

Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Patty Murray, D-Wash., said at the start of the hearing that she and the panel’s top Republican, Maine Sen. Susan Collins, were drafting “strong bipartisan legislation” that would include aid for both countries.

“Make no mistake, we need to address all of these priorities as part of one package — because the reality is these issues are all connected, and they are all urgent,” Murray said.

Blinken and Austin were repeatedly interrupted by dozens of protesters in the room who called for Israel to end its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, and the hearing had to be suspended as police cleared the room. “Cease-fire now!” they yelled. “Save the children of Gaza!”

After the protesters were escorted out, Blinken said he heard “the passions expressed in this room and outside this room.” He said that the U.S. is committed to protecting civilian life, “but all of us know the imperative of standing up with our allies and partners when their security, when their democracies, are threatened.”

Despite growing questions about the Ukraine aid within the Republican conference, Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell has forcefully advocated tying the aid for Ukraine and Israel together. He hosted Oksana Markarova, the Ukrainian ambassador to the United States, at an event in Kentucky on Monday and told the audience, “this is a moment for swift and decisive action.”

Senate Republicans who support the Ukraine aid are uncertain of the path forward. Further complicating the package, several of them have been negotiating border security measures that would go beyond Biden’s request, an attempt to help control the influx of migrants.

Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, the No. 2 Senate Republican, said there are a significant number of Republicans “who believe that these are all vital national security interests and priorities of the United States.” At the same time, trying to pass all of them together is complicated, he said.

Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa said she wants to see Ukraine aid passed, and “I don’t care how it happens.” She said she is open to the IRS cuts that Republicans proposed for the Israel funding in the House.

Senate Republicans who have opposed additional Ukraine aid threw support behind the House approach. “We have a Republican majority in the House, we need to follow the speaker," said Florida Sen. Rick Scott.

The House could pass its Israel aid package by the end of the week. In an interview on Fox News on Monday, Johnson said the legislation would be offset by the IRS funding because “we're not just going to print money and send it overseas."

The top Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, Massachusetts Rep. Richard Neal, and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, D-Ore., denounced the proposed IRS cuts as irresponsible.

“Hamas depends on sham charities and other illicit finance schemes to fund its operations, but this proposal would cut resources to IRS criminal investigators who are actively helping American allies stop terrorist financing and sanctions evaders,” Wyden said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698774267685.png" alt="Blinken and Austin were repeatedly interrupted by dozens of protesters in the room who called for Israel to end its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, and the hearing had to be suspended as police cleared the room. “Cease-fire now!” they yelled. “Save the children of Gaza!”-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Blinken and Austin were repeatedly interrupted by dozens of protesters in the room who called for Israel to end its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, and the hearing had to be suspended as police cleared the room. “Cease-fire now!” they yelled. “Save the children of Gaza!”-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The nation's top military and diplomatic leaders urged an increasingly divided Congress on Tuesday to send major immediate aid to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine</a>, arguing at a Senate hearing that broad support for the assistance would signal U.S. strength to adversaries worldwide.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Secretary of State <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> was interrupted by multiple pro-Palestinian protestors calling for a cease-fire in Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza during his opening statement on supplemental funding for national security. <a href="https://t.co/yk6uXkTFxo">pic.twitter.com/yk6uXkTFxo</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1719386809346531465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The testimony from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken came as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">administration’s massive $105 billion emergency aid request</a>&nbsp;for conflicts in the two countries encountered roadblocks.While there is bipartisan support in the Democratic-led Senate for aid to both Ukraine and Israel, the request faces deep problems in the Republican-led House.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-republicans-emmer-mccarthy-54352a64be041cd445bda8df28b24f03">New Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;has proposed focusing on Israel alone, and slashing money for the Internal Revenue Service to pay for it.(click below to watch Senator Moran's opening statement )<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/24Y8wUVM_2k?si=ZyBzgspZbR_7K1pM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>As the congressional divisions deepen, Blinken and Austin warned that the consequences of failing to help Ukraine in its war with Russia and Israel as it strikes back against Hamas would be dire. Inaction, they said, would threaten the security of the U.S. and the rest of the world.“We now stand at a moment where many are again making the bet that the United States is too divided or distracted at home to stay the course,” Blinken said. “That is what is at stake.”Austin said that if the United States fails to lead, ”the cost and the threats to the United States will only grow. We must not give our friends, our rivals, or our foes any reason to doubt America’s resolve."Biden has requested $14.3 billion for Israel, $61.4 billion to support Ukraine, $9.1 billion for humanitarian efforts in Gaza and elsewhere and $7.4 billion for the Indo-Pacific, where the U.S. is focused on countering China's influence. Some of the Ukraine funding would go toward replenishing domestic stockpiles of weapons that have already been provided.The White House has also requested roughly $14 billion to protect the U.S. border. That money would be used to boost the number of border agents, install new inspection machines to detect fentanyl and to increase staffing for processing asylum cases.But the House is trying to set aside much of Biden's request for now to focus on a roughly $14.5 billion package for Israel. That plan faced immediate resistance among Senate Democrats — and put pressure on the Senate Republicans who support the Ukraine aid but are conscious of growing concerns about it within their party.Speaking on the Senate floor, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the House proposal "is clearly designed to divide Congress on a partisan basis, not unite us.” He said he hopes Johnson realizes he made a “grave mistake” and reverses course.The two Cabinet secretaries argued that the aid should be tied together because the conflicts are interconnected. Blinken said that assisting Ukraine and Israel will strengthen the U.S. position against Iran, which is the biggest financial backer of Hamas.“Since we cut off Russia’s traditional means of supplying its military, it has turned more and more to Iran for assistance,” Blinken said. “In return, Moscow has supplied Iran with increasingly advanced military technology, which poses a threat to Israel’s security. Allowing Russia to prevail with Iran’s support will embolden both Moscow and Tehran.”Austin said the money would help Israel and Ukraine defend themselves against aggression — and also replenish U.S. stockpiles.“In both Israel and Ukraine, democracies are fighting ruthless foes bent on their annihilation,” Austin said. “We will not let Hamas or Putin win. Today’s battles against aggression and terrorism will define global security for years to come.”Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Patty Murray, D-Wash., said at the start of the hearing that she and the panel’s top Republican, Maine Sen. Susan Collins, were drafting “strong bipartisan legislation” that would include aid for both countries.“Make no mistake, we need to address all of these priorities as part of one package — because the reality is these issues are all connected, and they are all urgent,” Murray said.Blinken and Austin were repeatedly interrupted by dozens of protesters in the room who called for Israel to end its bombardment of the Gaza Strip, and the hearing had to be suspended as police cleared the room. “Cease-fire now!” they yelled. “Save the children of Gaza!”After the protesters were escorted out, Blinken said he heard “the passions expressed in this room and outside this room.” He said that the U.S. is committed to protecting civilian life, “but all of us know the imperative of standing up with our allies and partners when their security, when their democracies, are threatened.”Despite growing questions about the Ukraine aid within the Republican conference, Senate GOP Leader Mitch McConnell has forcefully advocated tying the aid for Ukraine and Israel together. He hosted Oksana Markarova, the Ukrainian ambassador to the United States, at an event in Kentucky on Monday and told the audience, “this is a moment for swift and decisive action.”Senate Republicans who support the Ukraine aid are uncertain of the path forward. Further complicating the package, several of them have been negotiating border security measures that would go beyond Biden’s request, an attempt to help control the influx of migrants.Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, the No. 2 Senate Republican, said there are a significant number of Republicans “who believe that these are all vital national security interests and priorities of the United States.” At the same time, trying to pass all of them together is complicated, he said.Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa said she wants to see Ukraine aid passed, and “I don’t care how it happens.” She said she is open to the IRS cuts that Republicans proposed for the Israel funding in the House.Senate Republicans who have opposed additional Ukraine aid threw support behind the House approach. “We have a Republican majority in the House, we need to follow the speaker," said Florida Sen. Rick Scott.The House could pass its Israel aid package by the end of the week. In an interview on Fox News on Monday, Johnson said the legislation would be offset by the IRS funding because “we're not just going to print money and send it overseas."The top Democrat on the House Ways and Means Committee, Massachusetts Rep. Richard Neal, and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, D-Ore., denounced the proposed IRS cuts as irresponsible.“Hamas depends on sham charities and other illicit finance schemes to fund its operations, but this proposal would cut resources to IRS criminal investigators who are actively helping American allies stop terrorist financing and sanctions evaders,” Wyden said.

🎥Protestors interrupt Senate hearing on funding for Israel 

HASKELL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Haskell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 GMC Sierra driven by Christian&nbsp;Gonzalez, 21, Dodge City, was&nbsp;westbound on U.S. 56 nine miles east of Sublette.

The driver fell asleep and the pickup drifted into the north ditch. The driver over-corrected and entered a side skid. The pickup ramped a field entrance and rolled and the driver was ejected.

Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Weeks Funeral Home. EMS transported a passenger Raul U.&nbsp;Ochoa-Corral, 20, Dodge City, to the Satanta Hospital.&nbsp; They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

HASKELL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Haskell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 GMC Sierra driven by Christian&nbsp;Gonzalez, 21, Dodge City, was&nbsp;westbound on U.S. 56 nine miles east of Sublette.The driver fell asleep and the pickup drifted into the north ditch. The driver over-corrected and entered a side skid. The pickup ramped a field entrance and rolled and the driver was ejected.Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Weeks Funeral Home. EMS transported a passenger Raul U.&nbsp;Ochoa-Corral, 20, Dodge City, to the Satanta Hospital.&nbsp; They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kan. man fell asleep, dies after ejected in pickup crash

By TIM CARPENTER&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039"></a>LEAVENWORTH — Heavy construction machinery did the real work in advance of Monday’s groundbreaking for a $532 million Leavenworth federal prison and satellite prison camp to replace an antiquated structure constructed in 1897 that served as the nation’s first maximum-security prison.

After the speeches and applause, a gaggle of local, state and federal politicians and Federal Bureau of Prisons officials dutifully grabbed ceremonial shovels and gouged the frigid dirt at their feet to celebrate a step forward for public safety.

The imposing stone facade of the U.S. Penitentiary known as “Big Top” remained solid, but the federal prison’s electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems long ago surpassed operational limits. The new prison project — a top priority of local officials in Leavenworth for two decades — belatedly gained traction in Congress about five years ago based on an understanding something had to be done in response to the old prison’s excessive operational costs and lack of space for educational and fellowship programs designed to reduce recidivism.

“It’s an opportunity for us to make certain that the Leavenworth federal penitentiary is here for a generation to come,” said U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, the Kansas Republican who chairs the Senate subcommittee with jurisdiction over the Bureau of Prisons. “The 100-plus-year-old facility that we have here doesn’t really create the opportunities for professionals to work side-by-side with the inmates and try to find a way to change their lives.”

The senator said the future prison complex was the second-largest federal investment in Kansas history — trailing only the $1.2 billion National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan.

Federal Correctional Institution Leavenworth and the adjacent Federal Prison Camp would be constructed over a three-year period with anticipated completion in May 2026. The site was undeveloped ground owned by the Bureau of Prisons east of the existing penitentiary. When operational, inmates from the old prison would be transferred to the new facility. The old and new facilities would be rated for about 1,400 inmates and both would be staffed by about 340 correctional officers and staff.

No decision about future use of the old penitentiary complex has been made public, a prison official said.

Jordan Toot, a case manager at the nearby U.S. Penitentiary and member of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 919, stood with more than a dozen other people at the prison entrance where dignitaries arrived for the groundbreaking. His handheld sign made the point: “Protect Those That Protect America.” Others in the picket line suggested “BOP Can’t Staff Existing Facility” and “My Grampy Matters.”

“We’re about 40 correctional officiers short right now — 190 is what they allow us to hire,” Toot said. “Someone has to be there for certain jobs. So, if someone is sick … somebody is going to have to stay an extra eight hours. They’re working a straight 16-hour day.”

Correctional officer Joe Gulley, who has been at the penitentiary for 22 years, said double-shifts were a grind. The Bureau of Prisons should modify the compensation structure to attract more applicants, eliminate subjective reasons for rejecting those that applied and work harder to retain veteran officers, he said. The current personnel system at the Leavenworth prison functioned by relying on voluntary or compelled overtime, he said.

“The reason why our staffing is so low is because it’s beneficial for the BOP,” Gulley said. “It’s more expensive to have the employees and pay the benefits than it is to pay the overtime to the employees you currently have.”

Toot and Gulley said sections of the Leavenworth prison were over capacity in terms of inmate population, which led to frequent lockdowns and a more hostile environment for employees and prisoners.

Toot said the existing penitentary was “falling apart” and the new prison complex would be better for prisoners and staff. It was unlikely, Toot said, to resolve the staffing shortage.

Leavenworth Mayor Jermaine Wilson said prison facilities were part of the DNA of Leavenworth. He said there was never a doubt the city was the best location to build a replacement for the oldest facility within the Bureau of Prisons.

“Anything worth having is worth fighting for,” he said. “It takes time and it took a lot of perserverance and work to make this happen.”

Although $5.4 million in planning funding was provided in 2000, little progress was made over the next decade on securing meaningful appropriations for a new prison. In 2009, funding was allocated to undertake the years-long environmental review and public consultation process. In 2018, Moran became chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, which had jurisdiction of the Bureau of Prisons.

In fiscal years 2019, 2020 and 2021, Congress provided allocations of $175 million, $181 million and $176 million for prison construction in Leavenworth.

“For 150 years, this community has embraced this challenge,” said U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas. “I want to make a special shout out to my correctional officers. I know the challenges. I’ve heard the challenges you have. Working 16-hour shifts … is unacceptable.”

Marshall said he was certain Colette Peters, director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, had heard the same concerns. The senator said “we’re going to do everything we can to correct that.”

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said she was pleased the new federal prison would allow for more complete adoption of best practices for handling prison populations, including provisions for safety of employees and rehabilitation of inmates.

“Long before I got into politics, I worked in a minimum-security prison,” she said. “Prisons, rather than be exclusively punitive, should be places of rehabilitation. We know that 98% of incarcerated in Kansas will be released.”

Peters, who also addressed those at the groundbreaking, said she was proud of federal prison system employees who “come to work everyday, putting their lives on the line, in tough conditions.”

“We’ve been using the word crisis, and we need a new word, because it’s bigger than that,” Peters said. “I’m enthused because healthy and safe facilities are what’s best for our communities. We’re now talking about the principles of normalcy and humanity in order to do exactly what the governor said: Make individuals good neighbors when they come back to our communities.”

She said Leavenworth’s new prison would have space for state-of-the-art programs for treatment, education, work and to connect with family in a more normalized environment.

“That will make our prisons safer and will allow those in our care and custody to come home and back to our communities better served and better integrated,” the director said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698754180009.png" alt="&nbsp;U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, Leavenworth Mayor Jermaine Wilson and Gov. Laura Kelly at the groundbreaking for a $532 million federal prison and prison camp at Leavenworth to replace a facility built in 1897. courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, Leavenworth Mayor Jermaine Wilson and Gov. Laura Kelly at the groundbreaking for a $532 million federal prison and prison camp at Leavenworth to replace a facility built in 1897. courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a><a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039"></a>LEAVENWORTH — Heavy construction machinery did the real work in advance of Monday’s groundbreaking for a $532 million Leavenworth federal prison and satellite prison camp to replace an antiquated structure constructed in 1897 that served as the nation’s first maximum-security prison.After the speeches and applause, a gaggle of local, state and federal politicians and Federal Bureau of Prisons officials dutifully grabbed ceremonial shovels and gouged the frigid dirt at their feet to celebrate a step forward for public safety.The imposing stone facade of the U.S. Penitentiary known as “Big Top” remained solid, but the federal prison’s electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems long ago surpassed operational limits. The new prison project — a top priority of local officials in Leavenworth for two decades — belatedly gained traction in Congress about five years ago based on an understanding something had to be done in response to the old prison’s excessive operational costs and lack of space for educational and fellowship programs designed to reduce recidivism.“It’s an opportunity for us to make certain that the Leavenworth federal penitentiary is here for a generation to come,” said U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, the Kansas Republican who chairs the Senate subcommittee with jurisdiction over the Bureau of Prisons. “The 100-plus-year-old facility that we have here doesn’t really create the opportunities for professionals to work side-by-side with the inmates and try to find a way to change their lives.”The senator said the future prison complex was the second-largest federal investment in Kansas history — trailing only the $1.2 billion National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan.Federal Correctional Institution Leavenworth and the adjacent Federal Prison Camp would be constructed over a three-year period with anticipated completion in May 2026. The site was undeveloped ground owned by the Bureau of Prisons east of the existing penitentiary. When operational, inmates from the old prison would be transferred to the new facility. The old and new facilities would be rated for about 1,400 inmates and both would be staffed by about 340 correctional officers and staff.No decision about future use of the old penitentiary complex has been made public, a prison official said.<h2>The labor shortage</h2>Jordan Toot, a case manager at the nearby U.S. Penitentiary and member of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 919, stood with more than a dozen other people at the prison entrance where dignitaries arrived for the groundbreaking. His handheld sign made the point: “Protect Those That Protect America.” Others in the picket line suggested “BOP Can’t Staff Existing Facility” and “My Grampy Matters.”“We’re about 40 correctional officiers short right now — 190 is what they allow us to hire,” Toot said. “Someone has to be there for certain jobs. So, if someone is sick … somebody is going to have to stay an extra eight hours. They’re working a straight 16-hour day.”Correctional officer Joe Gulley, who has been at the penitentiary for 22 years, said double-shifts were a grind. The Bureau of Prisons should modify the compensation structure to attract more applicants, eliminate subjective reasons for rejecting those that applied and work harder to retain veteran officers, he said. The current personnel system at the Leavenworth prison functioned by relying on voluntary or compelled overtime, he said.“The reason why our staffing is so low is because it’s beneficial for the BOP,” Gulley said. “It’s more expensive to have the employees and pay the benefits than it is to pay the overtime to the employees you currently have.”Toot and Gulley said sections of the Leavenworth prison were over capacity in terms of inmate population, which led to frequent lockdowns and a more hostile environment for employees and prisoners.Toot said the existing penitentary was “falling apart” and the new prison complex would be better for prisoners and staff. It was unlikely, Toot said, to resolve the staffing shortage.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698754127017.png" alt="U.S. Bureau of Prisons employees in American Federation of Government Employees Local 919 picket outside the U.S. Penitentiary at Leavenworth to bring attention to staff shortages. They stood at the entrance where dignitaries arrived for groundbreaking of a new federal prison. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Bureau of Prisons employees in American Federation of Government Employees Local 919 picket outside the U.S. Penitentiary at Leavenworth to bring attention to staff shortages. They stood at the entrance where dignitaries arrived for groundbreaking of a new federal prison. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The vision</h2>Leavenworth Mayor Jermaine Wilson said prison facilities were part of the DNA of Leavenworth. He said there was never a doubt the city was the best location to build a replacement for the oldest facility within the Bureau of Prisons.“Anything worth having is worth fighting for,” he said. “It takes time and it took a lot of perserverance and work to make this happen.”Although $5.4 million in planning funding was provided in 2000, little progress was made over the next decade on securing meaningful appropriations for a new prison. In 2009, funding was allocated to undertake the years-long environmental review and public consultation process. In 2018, Moran became chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, which had jurisdiction of the Bureau of Prisons.In fiscal years 2019, 2020 and 2021, Congress provided allocations of $175 million, $181 million and $176 million for prison construction in Leavenworth.“For 150 years, this community has embraced this challenge,” said U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas. “I want to make a special shout out to my correctional officers. I know the challenges. I’ve heard the challenges you have. Working 16-hour shifts … is unacceptable.”Marshall said he was certain Colette Peters, director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, had heard the same concerns. The senator said “we’re going to do everything we can to correct that.”Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said she was pleased the new federal prison would allow for more complete adoption of best practices for handling prison populations, including provisions for safety of employees and rehabilitation of inmates.“Long before I got into politics, I worked in a minimum-security prison,” she said. “Prisons, rather than be exclusively punitive, should be places of rehabilitation. We know that 98% of incarcerated in Kansas will be released.”Peters, who also addressed those at the groundbreaking, said she was proud of federal prison system employees who “come to work everyday, putting their lives on the line, in tough conditions.”“We’ve been using the word crisis, and we need a new word, because it’s bigger than that,” Peters said. “I’m enthused because healthy and safe facilities are what’s best for our communities. We’re now talking about the principles of normalcy and humanity in order to do exactly what the governor said: Make individuals good neighbors when they come back to our communities.”She said Leavenworth’s new prison would have space for state-of-the-art programs for treatment, education, work and to connect with family in a more normalized environment.“That will make our prisons safer and will allow those in our care and custody to come home and back to our communities better served and better integrated,” the director said.

Politicians mark start of $532M project to replace Kan. 126-year-old penitentiary

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly Sunday morning shooting outside a Wichita nightclub have captured the suspect identified as 33-year-old Terrence Johnson, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

Police reported the arrest just before 1p.m. Tuesday. Police have not reported details on the arrest.&nbsp;

At 12:30 a.m. Sunday, police were monitoring at Onyx, 10001 E. Kellogg in Wichita, when they heard multiple gunshots, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders located 23-year-old Jaylon Pete of Wichita in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Two other individuals, a 26-year-old man and a 24-year-old man both of Wichita, were struck by gunfire during the shooting.&nbsp;They were transported to local area hospitals for treatment of serious non-life threatening injuries.

Preliminary findings from the ongoing investigation suggest that the suspect now identified as Johnson was involved in a disturbance inside the club, according to Wichita Police Lt. Aaron Moses during a Monday news conference. Johnson went outside to get a handgun and attempted to re-enter the club. but was unable to do so due to safety measured implemented by the club management.

Through extensive investigation and tips from the public, police have probable cause to believe Johnson was the shooter Sunday morning, according to Lt. Moses.&nbsp;

Less than thirty minutes after the deadly shooting, police responded to a domestic violence call in the 1700 Block of North Pinecrest in Wichita. During the investigation of the call, officers arrested Johnson for alleged misdemeanor criminal damage to property.  Police had no information at that time Johnson was a suspect in the deadly nightclub shooting.

At 2:16a.m., officers booked Johnson into the Sedgwick County Jail for the criminal damage case and he bonded out just after 3:30a.m., according to online jail records. Police didn't identify him as a suspect in the nightclub killing until afternoon Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for formal charging consideration. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698775452875.png" alt="Johnson-photo Wichita Police." />
 <figcaption>Johnson-photo Wichita Police.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly Sunday morning shooting outside a Wichita nightclub have captured the suspect identified as 33-year-old Terrence Johnson, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.Police reported the arrest just before 1p.m. Tuesday. Police have not reported details on the arrest.&nbsp;At 12:30 a.m. Sunday, police were monitoring at Onyx, 10001 E. Kellogg in Wichita, when they heard multiple gunshots, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders located 23-year-old Jaylon Pete of Wichita in the parking lot with multiple gunshot wounds. EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.Two other individuals, a 26-year-old man and a 24-year-old man both of Wichita, were struck by gunfire during the shooting.&nbsp;They were transported to local area hospitals for treatment of serious non-life threatening injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698581256538.png" alt="Security camera image Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary findings from the ongoing investigation suggest that the suspect now identified as Johnson was involved in a disturbance inside the club, according to Wichita Police Lt. Aaron Moses during a Monday news conference. Johnson went outside to get a handgun and attempted to re-enter the club. but was unable to do so due to safety measured implemented by the club management.Through extensive investigation and tips from the public, police have probable cause to believe Johnson was the shooter Sunday morning, according to Lt. Moses.&nbsp;Less than thirty minutes after the deadly shooting, police responded to a domestic violence call in the 1700 Block of North Pinecrest in Wichita. During the investigation of the call, officers arrested Johnson for alleged misdemeanor criminal damage to property. Police had no information at that time Johnson was a suspect in the deadly nightclub shooting.At 2:16a.m., officers booked Johnson into the Sedgwick County Jail for the criminal damage case and he bonded out just after 3:30a.m., according to online jail records. Police didn't identify him as a suspect in the nightclub killing until afternoon Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney for formal charging consideration.

Police capture suspect in Kansas nightclub killing

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is moving toward a narrower student loan relief plan that would target specific groups of borrowers — those with soaring interest, for example — rather than a sweeping plan like the one the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">Supreme Court rejected</a>&nbsp;in June.

The Education Department on Monday released a draft of new federal rules paving the way for a second attempt at student loan relief. The proposal targets groups that are seen as especially vulnerable, focusing on those who owe so much, or make so little income, that they otherwise may never repay their loans.

Though full details are likely months away, the department says it wants to cancel some or all student debt for: borrowers whose balances exceed what they originally owed; those who have loans that entered repayment 25 or more years ago; those who used loans to attend career-training programs that led to “unreasonable” debt loads or insufficient earnings; those who are eligible for other loan forgiveness programs but did not apply.

A fifth group is also being discussed — “those who are experiencing financial hardship that the current student loan system does not currently adequately address.”

“President Biden and I are committed to helping borrowers who’ve been failed by our country’s broken and unaffordable student loan system,” Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement. "We are fighting to ensure that student debt does not stand in the way of opportunity or prevent borrowers from realizing the benefits of their higher education.”

President Joe Biden’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-biden-plan-d9c8e18774a744187c9af634bf4eb728">initial plan</a>&nbsp;was broader. It would have canceled up to $20,000 in federal student loans for those with annual incomes below $125,000 or couples below $250,000. But after that was rejected by the court’s conservative majority, he called on the Education Department to try again using a different legal basis.

The new proposal aims to tackle issues that are seen as some of the biggest culprits behind skyrocketing debt.

It would help counter interest that snowballs beyond borrowers' original balances. It would offer relief to borrowers who attended for-profit college programs with poor outcomes. It would also help older borrowers who took out loans decades ago and struggle to make payments.

The department says it will continue to refine the proposal as it goes through a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loans-debt-cancellation-college-7c8d3736578eb799e2f976d2f8feee79">federal rulemaking process</a>. The public will be able to provide written feedback next year.

The draft proposal would give the department authority to wipe away federal student loans entirely for borrowers in some categories.

For those who started repaying loans more than 25 years ago, the proposal says that “the secretary may waive the outstanding balance of a loan” — amounting to total cancellation. It's the same for borrowers who are eligible for other cancellation programs but haven't applied.

Loans used to attend low-value college programs would also be wiped away. Borrowers would fall into that category if they attended a program that fails new standards outlined in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-for-profit-student-debt-tuition-b4db9895af1ce6ac6737aa2dad015551">separate federal rule</a>&nbsp;known as gainful employment.

For those with snowballing interest, the proposal would reset their loans back to the original balance, effectively canceling unpaid interest.

Even a more limited plan for relief is sure to draw fierce opposition from Republicans, who see cancellation as an unfair burden on taxpayers.

The latest attempt rests on the Higher Education Act of 1965, a wide-reaching law that gives the education secretary power to “compromise, waive or release” certain debts. But the law is unclear on how the secretary can wield that authority, creating a legal gray area that has been the subject of debate since Biden took office.

The proposal aims to settle the dispute by creating new federal rules detailing cases that merit cancellation. Before the rules can be enacted, they must be weighed by a committee of government outsiders in a process known as negotiated rulemaking. The new draft will be taken up when the committee meets next week.

The committee is made up of negotiators who represent a range of viewpoints on student loans. It includes students and officials from a range of colleges, along with loan servicers, state officials and advocates including the NAACP.

Meetings began earlier this month and are scheduled to continue into December.

At the end of the process, negotiators will vote on a proposed rule. If they reach consensus, the department will move forward with it. If they don’t, the agency will propose its own plan, which can be finalized after a public comment period.

Biden called for a plan to help “as many borrowers as possible,” but his administration seems to be moving away from the type of mass cancellation that he promised in August 2022.

That plan was estimated to cost $400 billion. It’s unclear how much the second proposal will cost.

In a separate action on Monday, the Education Department moved to correct errors by a student loan servicer that failed to send billing statements on time.

The department is withholding $7.2 million in payment to the loan servicer MOHELA after finding that it failed to send timely billing statements to 2.5 million borrowers recently. In some cases, borrowers received their bills within seven days of their due date. As a result, the department said, 800,000 borrowers were delinquent on their payments.

The department ordered MOHELA to put all affected borrowers into forbearance — a temporary hold on payments — until the issue is resolved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695745650600.png" alt="The new proposal aims to tackle issues that are seen as some of the biggest culprits behind skyrocketing debt.-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>The new proposal aims to tackle issues that are seen as some of the biggest culprits behind skyrocketing debt.-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration is moving toward a narrower student loan relief plan that would target specific groups of borrowers — those with soaring interest, for example — rather than a sweeping plan like the one the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">Supreme Court rejected</a>&nbsp;in June.The Education Department on Monday released a draft of new federal rules paving the way for a second attempt at student loan relief. The proposal targets groups that are seen as especially vulnerable, focusing on those who owe so much, or make so little income, that they otherwise may never repay their loans.Though full details are likely months away, the department says it wants to cancel some or all student debt for: borrowers whose balances exceed what they originally owed; those who have loans that entered repayment 25 or more years ago; those who used loans to attend career-training programs that led to “unreasonable” debt loads or insufficient earnings; those who are eligible for other loan forgiveness programs but did not apply.A fifth group is also being discussed — “those who are experiencing financial hardship that the current student loan system does not currently adequately address.”“President Biden and I are committed to helping borrowers who’ve been failed by our country’s broken and unaffordable student loan system,” Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement. "We are fighting to ensure that student debt does not stand in the way of opportunity or prevent borrowers from realizing the benefits of their higher education.”President Joe Biden’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-biden-plan-d9c8e18774a744187c9af634bf4eb728">initial plan</a>&nbsp;was broader. It would have canceled up to $20,000 in federal student loans for those with annual incomes below $125,000 or couples below $250,000. But after that was rejected by the court’s conservative majority, he called on the Education Department to try again using a different legal basis.The new proposal aims to tackle issues that are seen as some of the biggest culprits behind skyrocketing debt.It would help counter interest that snowballs beyond borrowers' original balances. It would offer relief to borrowers who attended for-profit college programs with poor outcomes. It would also help older borrowers who took out loans decades ago and struggle to make payments.The department says it will continue to refine the proposal as it goes through a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loans-debt-cancellation-college-7c8d3736578eb799e2f976d2f8feee79">federal rulemaking process</a>. The public will be able to provide written feedback next year.The draft proposal would give the department authority to wipe away federal student loans entirely for borrowers in some categories.For those who started repaying loans more than 25 years ago, the proposal says that “the secretary may waive the outstanding balance of a loan” — amounting to total cancellation. It's the same for borrowers who are eligible for other cancellation programs but haven't applied.Loans used to attend low-value college programs would also be wiped away. Borrowers would fall into that category if they attended a program that fails new standards outlined in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-for-profit-student-debt-tuition-b4db9895af1ce6ac6737aa2dad015551">separate federal rule</a>&nbsp;known as gainful employment.For those with snowballing interest, the proposal would reset their loans back to the original balance, effectively canceling unpaid interest.Even a more limited plan for relief is sure to draw fierce opposition from Republicans, who see cancellation as an unfair burden on taxpayers.The latest attempt rests on the Higher Education Act of 1965, a wide-reaching law that gives the education secretary power to “compromise, waive or release” certain debts. But the law is unclear on how the secretary can wield that authority, creating a legal gray area that has been the subject of debate since Biden took office.The proposal aims to settle the dispute by creating new federal rules detailing cases that merit cancellation. Before the rules can be enacted, they must be weighed by a committee of government outsiders in a process known as negotiated rulemaking. The new draft will be taken up when the committee meets next week.The committee is made up of negotiators who represent a range of viewpoints on student loans. It includes students and officials from a range of colleges, along with loan servicers, state officials and advocates including the NAACP.Meetings began earlier this month and are scheduled to continue into December.At the end of the process, negotiators will vote on a proposed rule. If they reach consensus, the department will move forward with it. If they don’t, the agency will propose its own plan, which can be finalized after a public comment period.Biden called for a plan to help “as many borrowers as possible,” but his administration seems to be moving away from the type of mass cancellation that he promised in August 2022.That plan was estimated to cost $400 billion. It’s unclear how much the second proposal will cost.In a separate action on Monday, the Education Department moved to correct errors by a student loan servicer that failed to send billing statements on time.The department is withholding $7.2 million in payment to the loan servicer MOHELA after finding that it failed to send timely billing statements to 2.5 million borrowers recently. In some cases, borrowers received their bills within seven days of their due date. As a result, the department said, 800,000 borrowers were delinquent on their payments.The department ordered MOHELA to put all affected borrowers into forbearance — a temporary hold on payments — until the issue is resolved.

Biden considers narrower student loan relief targeting groups of borrowers

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a stabbing that critically injured a man.

Just after 4a.m. Monday, police officers were dispatched to the area of 1800 S. Broadway in Wichita to a stabbing call, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders discovered a 31-year-old victim who had sustained two stab wounds. EMS transported him to a local area hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Preliminary investigations revealed that a disturbance took place in the parking lot which involved the victim and the suspect. This altercation resulted in the victim being stabbed twice. The Wichita Police Department is working diligently to uncover further details and the circumstances surrounding this incident.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a stabbing that critically injured a man.Just after 4a.m. Monday, police officers were dispatched to the area of 1800 S. Broadway in Wichita to a stabbing call, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders discovered a 31-year-old victim who had sustained two stab wounds. EMS transported him to a local area hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.Preliminary investigations revealed that a disturbance took place in the parking lot which involved the victim and the suspect. This altercation resulted in the victim being stabbed twice. The Wichita Police Department is working diligently to uncover further details and the circumstances surrounding this incident.

Police investigate parking lot stabbing of 31-year-old Kan. man

SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after noon Monday in Shawnee County.

The two vehicle crash occurred&nbsp;&nbsp;near NW St. John Street&nbsp; and NW Tyler Street, according to police department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Emergency crews transported 33-year-old&nbsp;Alycia A. Noriega of Topeka to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She died late Monday afternoon, according to police.

The accident remains under investigation. Police released no additional details Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698703321792.png" alt="Police near the scene of the deadly crash" />
 <figcaption>Police near the scene of the deadly crash</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after noon Monday in Shawnee County.The two vehicle crash occurred&nbsp;&nbsp;near NW St. John Street&nbsp; and NW Tyler Street, according to police department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Emergency crews transported 33-year-old&nbsp;Alycia A. Noriega of Topeka to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She died late Monday afternoon, according to police.The accident remains under investigation. Police released no additional details Tuesday..

Police ID Kansas woman who died after 2-vehicle crash

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jaredstrong/">JARED STRONG</a>

Federal agricultural officials plan to spend up to $2.3 billion to promote farm exports and to send U.S. grain to countries that are suffering food shortages.

“This will complement existing trade promotion programs as we await Congress’s action on both the budget and the farm bill,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said Tuesday.

The farm bill — which governs policy and spending for farm, food and conservation programs — is up for renewal, which typically happens every five years. Some of its provisions expired at the end of September, and more will expire at the end of the year.

<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/10/06/farm-bill-stalled-amid-u-s-house-speaker-battle-delay-of-spending-bills/">It’s unclear</a>&nbsp;when federal lawmakers will approve a new farm bill. The U.S. House of Representatives has been without a speaker for about three weeks and, consequently, unable to act on legislation.

A popular trade promotion program that was created in 2018 amid then-President Donald Trump’s trade war with China and other countries is also set to expire next year.

“We continue to look for ways in which we can increase trade opportunities for U.S. agriculture, especially because of the strength of the U.S. economy and the difficulties experienced in the global economy,” Vilsack said. “We now find ourselves with unusual trade deficits in agricultural products.”

The new federal funding — $1.3 billion for the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and $1 billion to combat global hunger — will be paid out of the Commodity Credit Corporation, which the Biden administration has used for myriad new agriculture initiatives, including those that promote&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/02/07/usda-pledges-1b-for-climate-smart-ag-products/">“climate smart” practices</a>.

Some Republican lawmakers&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/08/09/usdas-climate-grants-for-farms-and-forests-run-into-republican-buzzsaw/">have criticized</a>&nbsp;the use of CCC funds for those initiatives. The CCC was created decades ago to assist farmers with catastrophic crop losses, but the USDA has broad spending authority over it.

The latest announced spending was the result of an August request from the top Democrat and Republican of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.

“We write to urge you to consider using your authorities with regard to the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to support the creation of new and better market opportunities for our nation’s farmers by addressing two key needs: trade promotion, and in-kind international food assistance,” U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, and John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/090623_stabenow-boozman_to_vilsack_re_ccc_request.pdf">wrote to the USDA</a>.

They noted bipartisan support for the food assistance because “Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine continues to disrupt supply chains and perpetuate humanitarian crises in the region and around the world.”

Russia invaded Ukraine about 20 months ago. As the fighting continues, Russia has sought to block grain from being exported by Ukraine, especially through its Black Sea ports. Ukraine is a major producer of corn and wheat.

The USDA will use up to $1 billion to buy commodities and distribute them with the help of the U.S. Agency for International Development, the lead federal agency for international emergency food aid programs.

Vilsack said the USDA hopes to finalize the details of the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program funding in the coming months.

This story was originally published by t<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/10/24/feds-pledge-2-3-billion-to-boost-ag-exports-amid-farm-bill-uncertainty/">he Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698495317565.png" alt=" U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack talks trade at a Woodward farm on Aug. 18, 2022 (Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)." />
 <figcaption> U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack talks trade at a Woodward farm on Aug. 18, 2022 (Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jaredstrong/">JARED STRONG</a>Federal agricultural officials plan to spend up to $2.3 billion to promote farm exports and to send U.S. grain to countries that are suffering food shortages.“This will complement existing trade promotion programs as we await Congress’s action on both the budget and the farm bill,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said Tuesday.The farm bill — which governs policy and spending for farm, food and conservation programs — is up for renewal, which typically happens every five years. Some of its provisions expired at the end of September, and more will expire at the end of the year.<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/10/06/farm-bill-stalled-amid-u-s-house-speaker-battle-delay-of-spending-bills/">It’s unclear</a>&nbsp;when federal lawmakers will approve a new farm bill. The U.S. House of Representatives has been without a speaker for about three weeks and, consequently, unable to act on legislation.A popular trade promotion program that was created in 2018 amid then-President Donald Trump’s trade war with China and other countries is also set to expire next year.“We continue to look for ways in which we can increase trade opportunities for U.S. agriculture, especially because of the strength of the U.S. economy and the difficulties experienced in the global economy,” Vilsack said. “We now find ourselves with unusual trade deficits in agricultural products.”The new federal funding — $1.3 billion for the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and $1 billion to combat global hunger — will be paid out of the Commodity Credit Corporation, which the Biden administration has used for myriad new agriculture initiatives, including those that promote&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/02/07/usda-pledges-1b-for-climate-smart-ag-products/">“climate smart” practices</a>.Some Republican lawmakers&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/08/09/usdas-climate-grants-for-farms-and-forests-run-into-republican-buzzsaw/">have criticized</a>&nbsp;the use of CCC funds for those initiatives. The CCC was created decades ago to assist farmers with catastrophic crop losses, but the USDA has broad spending authority over it.The latest announced spending was the result of an August request from the top Democrat and Republican of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.“We write to urge you to consider using your authorities with regard to the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act to support the creation of new and better market opportunities for our nation’s farmers by addressing two key needs: trade promotion, and in-kind international food assistance,” U.S. Sens. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, and John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/090623_stabenow-boozman_to_vilsack_re_ccc_request.pdf">wrote to the USDA</a>.They noted bipartisan support for the food assistance because “Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine continues to disrupt supply chains and perpetuate humanitarian crises in the region and around the world.”Russia invaded Ukraine about 20 months ago. As the fighting continues, Russia has sought to block grain from being exported by Ukraine, especially through its Black Sea ports. Ukraine is a major producer of corn and wheat.The USDA will use up to $1 billion to buy commodities and distribute them with the help of the U.S. Agency for International Development, the lead federal agency for international emergency food aid programs.Vilsack said the USDA hopes to finalize the details of the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program funding in the coming months.This story was originally published by t<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2023/10/24/feds-pledge-2-3-billion-to-boost-ag-exports-amid-farm-bill-uncertainty/">he Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

Feds pledge $2.3 billion to boost ag exports amid farm bill uncertainty

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health regulators are warning consumers not to use more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-consumers-not-purchase-or-use-certain-eye-drops-several-major-brands-due-risk-eye">two dozen varieties</a>&nbsp;of over-the-counter eyedrops because of the risk of infections that could lead to blindness.

The Food and Drug Administration advisory applies to lubricating drops sold by six companies, including CVS Health, Target, Rite Aid and Cardinal Health. Consumers should stop using the products immediately and avoid purchasing any that remain on pharmacy and store shelves, the FDA said in a statement.

The agency asked the companies to recall their products last week, because FDA inspectors found unsanitary conditions and bacteria at the facility producing the drops. The FDA did not disclose the location of the factory or when it was inspected.

No injuries related to the products had been reported at the time of the announcement, but the FDA encouraged doctors and patients to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program">submit cases</a>&nbsp;through the agency’s online reporting system.

Earlier this year, federal officials linked an outbreak of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-city-business-health-4572be6da44f4fab4e0f691f5e37e3ed">drug-resistant bacteria</a>&nbsp;to eyedrops from two companies, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. More than 80 people in the U.S. tested positive for eye infections from the rare bacterial strain, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/hai/outbreaks/crpa-artificial-tears.html#anchor_1674746879046">most recent update</a>&nbsp;from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. health regulators are warning consumers not to use more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-consumers-not-purchase-or-use-certain-eye-drops-several-major-brands-due-risk-eye">two dozen varieties</a>&nbsp;of over-the-counter eyedrops because of the risk of infections that could lead to blindness.The Food and Drug Administration advisory applies to lubricating drops sold by six companies, including CVS Health, Target, Rite Aid and Cardinal Health. Consumers should stop using the products immediately and avoid purchasing any that remain on pharmacy and store shelves, the FDA said in a statement.The agency asked the companies to recall their products last week, because FDA inspectors found unsanitary conditions and bacteria at the facility producing the drops. The FDA did not disclose the location of the factory or when it was inspected.No injuries related to the products had been reported at the time of the announcement, but the FDA encouraged doctors and patients to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program">submit cases</a>&nbsp;through the agency’s online reporting system.Earlier this year, federal officials linked an outbreak of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-city-business-health-4572be6da44f4fab4e0f691f5e37e3ed">drug-resistant bacteria</a>&nbsp;to eyedrops from two companies, EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. More than 80 people in the U.S. tested positive for eye infections from the rare bacterial strain, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/hai/outbreaks/crpa-artificial-tears.html#anchor_1674746879046">most recent update</a>&nbsp;from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Infection, blindness: FDA warning for dozens of over-the-counter eye drops

CALDWELL COUNTY —One person died in an accident during a police chase just before 7a.m. Monday in Caldwell County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Mazda 3 driven by Sheila G. Roesch, 46, Overland Park, was northbound on MO 13 two miles north of Kingston, being pursued by law enforcement at a high rate of speed.&nbsp;

The car traveled through a construction barrier, off the east side of the road, struck a vertical light trailer, traveled down an embankment and caught fire.

Roesch was pronounced dead at the scene. The Caldwell County Cororner transported her to Bram Funeral Home in Hamilton.

In June, Roesch was jailed in Johnson County on a requested charge of aggravated domestic battery, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698713067647.png" alt="Roesch-photo from an arrest in June in Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Roesch-photo from an arrest in June in Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>CALDWELL COUNTY —One person died in an accident during a police chase just before 7a.m. Monday in Caldwell County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Mazda 3 driven by Sheila G. Roesch, 46, Overland Park, was northbound on MO 13 two miles north of Kingston, being pursued by law enforcement at a high rate of speed.&nbsp;The car traveled through a construction barrier, off the east side of the road, struck a vertical light trailer, traveled down an embankment and caught fire.Roesch was pronounced dead at the scene. The Caldwell County Cororner transported her to Bram Funeral Home in Hamilton.In June, Roesch was jailed in Johnson County on a requested charge of aggravated domestic battery, according to online jail records.&nbsp;