WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States took survivors into custody after its military struck a suspected drug-carrying vessel in the Caribbean — the first attack that anyone escaped alive since President Donald Trump began launching&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-drugs-venezuela-911-hegseth-3db3aafed492556bb9ca7de855c4849e">deadly strikes in the region</a>&nbsp;last month, a defense official and another person familiar with the matter said Friday.

“We attacked a submarine, and that was a drug-carrying submarine built specifically for the transportation of massive amounts of drugs” Trump said while hosting the Ukrainian president at the White House.

Secretary of State Rubio did not dispute that there were survivors, but he repeatedly said details would be forthcoming.

The strike Thursday brought the death toll from the Trump administration’s military action against vessels in the region to at least 28.

It is believed to be at least the sixth strike in the waters off Venezuela since early September, and the first to result in survivors who were picked up by the U.S. military. It was not immediately clear what would be done with the survivors, who the people said were being held on a U.S. Navy vessel.

They confirmed the strike and the seizing of survivors on the condition of anonymity because the attack had not yet been publicly acknowledged by Trump’s administration.

Trump has justified the strikes by asserting that the United States is engaged in an “armed conflict” with drug cartels, relying on the same legal authority used by the Bush administration when it declared a war on terror after the Sept. 11 attacks. That includes the ability to capture and detain combatants and to use lethal force to take out their leadership.

Some legal experts have questioned the legality of the approach. The president's use of overwhelming military force to combat the cartels, along with his authorization of covert action inside Venezuela, possibly to oust President Nicolás Maduro, stretches the bounds of international law, legal scholars said this week.

Trump on Friday appeared to confirm reports that Maduro has offered a stake in Venezuela’s oil and other mineral wealth in recent months to try to stave off mounting pressure from the United States. The New York Times last week first reported about the effort by the Maduro government.

Venezuelan government officials have also floated a plan in which Maduro would eventually leave office, according to a former Trump administration official. That plan was also rejected by the White House, the AP reported.

“He’s offered everything,” Trump said in an exchange with reporters at the start of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "You know why? Because he doesn’t want to f—- around with the United States.”

For the survivors of Thursday's strike, the saga is hardly over. They now face an unclear future and legal landscape, including questions about whether they are now considered to be prisoners of war or defendants in a criminal case. The White House did not comment on the strike.

Reuters was first to report news of the strike late Thursday.

The strikes in the Caribbean have caused unease among both Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill, with some Republicans saying they have not received sufficient information on how the strikes are being conducted. A classified briefing for senators on the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this month did not include representatives from intelligence agencies or the military command structure for South and Central America.

However, most Senate Republicans stood behind the administration last week when a vote on a War Powers Resolution was brought up, which would have required the administration to gain approval from Congress before conducting more strikes.

Their willingness to back the administration will be tested again. Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, along with Sens. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, and Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, is bringing another resolution that would prevent Trump from outright attacking Venezuela without congressional authorization.

Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim and Aamer Madhani contributed reporting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759514395092.png" alt="File image from an earlier drug boat attack video" />
 <figcaption>File image from an earlier drug boat attack video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States took survivors into custody after its military struck a suspected drug-carrying vessel in the Caribbean — the first attack that anyone escaped alive since President Donald Trump began launching&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-drugs-venezuela-911-hegseth-3db3aafed492556bb9ca7de855c4849e">deadly strikes in the region</a>&nbsp;last month, a defense official and another person familiar with the matter said Friday.Trump later confirmed the attack.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We attacked a submarine. That was a drug-carrying submarine built specifically for the transportation of massive amounts of drugs — just so you understand. This was not an innocent group of people.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/4dTsbysG3c">pic.twitter.com/4dTsbysG3c</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979249508685885934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We attacked a submarine, and that was a drug-carrying submarine built specifically for the transportation of massive amounts of drugs” Trump said while hosting the Ukrainian president at the White House.Secretary of State Rubio did not dispute that there were survivors, but he repeatedly said details would be forthcoming.The strike Thursday brought the death toll from the Trump administration’s military action against vessels in the region to at least 28.It is believed to be at least the sixth strike in the waters off Venezuela since early September, and the first to result in survivors who were picked up by the U.S. military. It was not immediately clear what would be done with the survivors, who the people said were being held on a U.S. Navy vessel.They confirmed the strike and the seizing of survivors on the condition of anonymity because the attack had not yet been publicly acknowledged by Trump’s administration.Trump has justified the strikes by asserting that the United States is engaged in an “armed conflict” with drug cartels, relying on the same legal authority used by the Bush administration when it declared a war on terror after the Sept. 11 attacks. That includes the ability to capture and detain combatants and to use lethal force to take out their leadership.Some legal experts have questioned the legality of the approach. The president's use of overwhelming military force to combat the cartels, along with his authorization of covert action inside Venezuela, possibly to oust President Nicolás Maduro, stretches the bounds of international law, legal scholars said this week.Trump on Friday appeared to confirm reports that Maduro has offered a stake in Venezuela’s oil and other mineral wealth in recent months to try to stave off mounting pressure from the United States. The New York Times last week first reported about the effort by the Maduro government.Venezuelan government officials have also floated a plan in which Maduro would eventually leave office, according to a former Trump administration official. That plan was also rejected by the White House, the AP reported.“He’s offered everything,” Trump said in an exchange with reporters at the start of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "You know why? Because he doesn’t want to f—- around with the United States.”For the survivors of Thursday's strike, the saga is hardly over. They now face an unclear future and legal landscape, including questions about whether they are now considered to be prisoners of war or defendants in a criminal case. The White House did not comment on the strike.Reuters was first to report news of the strike late Thursday.The strikes in the Caribbean have caused unease among both Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill, with some Republicans saying they have not received sufficient information on how the strikes are being conducted. A classified briefing for senators on the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this month did not include representatives from intelligence agencies or the military command structure for South and Central America.However, most Senate Republicans stood behind the administration last week when a vote on a War Powers Resolution was brought up, which would have required the administration to gain approval from Congress before conducting more strikes.Their willingness to back the administration will be tested again. Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, along with Sens. Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, and Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, is bringing another resolution that would prevent Trump from outright attacking Venezuela without congressional authorization.___Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim and Aamer Madhani contributed reporting.

🎥US seized survivors after strike on another drug-carrying vessel 

NEW YORK (AP) — President Donald Trump said Friday he had commuted the sentence of former U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/george-santos">George Santos</a>, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-sentencing-prison-0961831af8870686853acb22d049c85e">was slated to serve</a>&nbsp;more than seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to fraud and identity theft charges.

Joseph Murray, one of Santos’ lawyers, told The Associated Press late Friday that the former lawmaker was released from the Federal Correctional Institution in Fairton, New Jersey, around 11 p.m., and was greeted outside the facility by his family.

The New York Republican was sentenced in April after admitting last year to deceiving donors and stealing the identities of 11 people — including his own family members — to make donations to his campaign.

He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-prison-29cdb8a9e9dfe7283d53091a6e20b1ba">reported to</a>&nbsp;FCI Fairton on July 25 and was housed in a minimum security prison camp with fewer than 50 other inmates.

“George Santos was somewhat of a ‘rogue,’ but there are many rogues throughout our Country that aren’t forced to serve seven years in prison," Trump posted on his social media platform. He said he had “just signed a Commutation, releasing George Santos from prison, IMMEDIATELY.”

"Good luck George, have a great life!” Trump said.

Santos’ account on X, which has been active throughout his roughly 84 days in prison, reposted a screenshot of Trump’s Truth Social post Friday.

During his time behind bars, Santos has been writing regular dispatches in a local newspaper on Long Island, in which he mainly complained about the prison conditions.

In his latest letter, though, he pleaded to Trump directly, citing his fealty to the president's agenda and to the Republican Party.

“Sir, I appeal to your sense of justice and humanity — the same qualities that have inspired millions of Americans to believe in you," he&nbsp;<a href="https://southshorepress.com/stories/675756835-santos-in-solitary-a-passionate-plea-to-president-trump">wrote in The South Shore Press</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 13. "I humbly ask that you consider the unusual pain and hardship of this environment and allow me the opportunity to return to my family, my friends, and my community.”

Santos’ commutation is Trump’s latest high-profile&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nikola-trevor-milton-fraud-trump-pardon-3fcebb0a3820cecb205656f2dc3f6764">act of clemency</a>&nbsp;for former Republican politicians since retaking the White House in January.

In late May, he pardoned former U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/michael-grimm">Michael Grimm</a>, a New York Republican who in 2014 pleaded guilty to underreporting wages and revenue at a restaurant he ran in Manhattan. He also pardoned former Connecticut Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/former-connecticut-governor-john-rowland-pardoned-trump-3f64b89567cb5f688808eb1b1ddd581f">John Rowland</a>, whose promising political career was upended by a corruption scandal and two federal prison stints.

But in granting clemency to Santos, Trump was rewarding a figure who has drawn scorn from within his own party.

After becoming the first openly gay Republican elected to Congress in 2022, Santos served less than a year after it was revealed that he had fabricated much of his life story.

On the campaign trail, Santos had claimed he was a successful business consultant with Wall Street cred and a sizable real estate portfolio. But when his resume came under scrutiny, Santos eventually admitted he had never graduated from Baruch College — or been a standout player on the Manhattan college’s volleyball team, as he had claimed. He had never worked at Citigroup and Goldman Sachs.

He wasn’t&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-business-bb455cc02b70e5366b9c5e347da8ad38">even Jewish</a>. Santos insisted he meant he was “Jew-ish” because his mother’s family had a Jewish background, even though he was raised Catholic.

In truth, the then-34-year-old was struggling financially and even faced eviction.

Santos was charged in 2023 with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-credit-card-fraud-f723e69a777b02a2e6b87595f45c21ce">stealing from donors and his campaign</a>, fraudulently collecting unemployment benefits and lying to Congress about his wealth.

Within months, he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-expulsion-vote-ethics-investigation-fd0f1524065883c6b2fe3e6f9afd84db">expelled from the U.S. House of Representatives</a>&nbsp;-- with 105 Republicans joining with Democrats to make Santos just the&nbsp;<a href="https://history.house.gov/Institution/Discipline/Expulsion-Censure-Reprimand/">sixth member</a>&nbsp;in the chamber’s history to be ousted by colleagues..

Santos&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-plea-court-new-york-90741d068fd94090419fc0fd79be30cc">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;as he was set to stand trial.

Still, a prominent former House colleague, U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marjorie-taylor-greene-republican-governor-georgia-3afd2ed330a227c42710ae664a12cf6a">Marjorie Taylor Greene</a>, urged the White House to commute Santos’ sentence, saying in a letter sent just days into his prison bid that the punishment was “a grave injustice” and a product of judicial overreach.

Greene was among those who cheered the announcement Friday. But U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota, a Republican who represents part of Long Island and has been highly critical of Santos, said in a post on social media that Santos “didn’t merely lie” and his crimes “warrant more than a three-month sentence.”

“He should devote the rest of his life to demonstrating remorse and making restitution to those he wronged,” LaLota said.

Santos’ clemency appears to clear not just his prison term, but also any “further fines, restitution, probation, supervised release, or other conditions,” according to a copy of Trump’s order&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/EdMartinDOJ/status/1979311737943003393">posted on X</a>&nbsp;by Ed Martin, the Justice Department’s pardon attorney.

As part of his guilty plea, Santos had agreed to pay restitution of $373,750 and forfeiture of $205,003.

In explaining his reason for granting Santos clemency, Trump said the lies Santos told about himself were no worse than misleading statements U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal -- a Democrat and frequent critic of the administration -- had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-elections-politics-ct-state-wire-04d76dfc292548efb2d03b54c762a24b">made about his military record.</a>

Blumenthal apologized 15 years ago for implying that he served in Vietnam, when he was stateside in the Marine Reserve during the war.

“This is far worse than what George Santos did, and at least Santos had the Courage, Conviction, and Intelligence to ALWAYS VOTE REPUBLICAN!” Trump wrote.

The president himself was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trial-deliberations-jury-testimony-verdict-85558c6d08efb434d05b694364470aa0">convicted in a New York court</a>&nbsp;last year in a case involving hush money payments. He derided the case as part of a politically motivated witch hunt.

Associated Press writers Michael R. Sisak in New York and Susan Haigh in Connecticut contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673636785376.png" alt="File photo Former Rep. George Santos" />
 <figcaption>File photo Former Rep. George Santos</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — President Donald Trump said Friday he had commuted the sentence of former U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/george-santos">George Santos</a>, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-sentencing-prison-0961831af8870686853acb22d049c85e">was slated to serve</a>&nbsp;more than seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to fraud and identity theft charges.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/RsKT1qVuOr">pic.twitter.com/RsKT1qVuOr</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979307772563820927?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Joseph Murray, one of Santos’ lawyers, told The Associated Press late Friday that the former lawmaker was released from the Federal Correctional Institution in Fairton, New Jersey, around 11 p.m., and was greeted outside the facility by his family.The New York Republican was sentenced in April after admitting last year to deceiving donors and stealing the identities of 11 people — including his own family members — to make donations to his campaign.He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-prison-29cdb8a9e9dfe7283d53091a6e20b1ba">reported to</a>&nbsp;FCI Fairton on July 25 and was housed in a minimum security prison camp with fewer than 50 other inmates.“George Santos was somewhat of a ‘rogue,’ but there are many rogues throughout our Country that aren’t forced to serve seven years in prison," Trump posted on his social media platform. He said he had “just signed a Commutation, releasing George Santos from prison, IMMEDIATELY.”"Good luck George, have a great life!” Trump said.Santos’ account on X, which has been active throughout his roughly 84 days in prison, reposted a screenshot of Trump’s Truth Social post Friday.During his time behind bars, Santos has been writing regular dispatches in a local newspaper on Long Island, in which he mainly complained about the prison conditions.In his latest letter, though, he pleaded to Trump directly, citing his fealty to the president's agenda and to the Republican Party.“Sir, I appeal to your sense of justice and humanity — the same qualities that have inspired millions of Americans to believe in you," he&nbsp;<a href="https://southshorepress.com/stories/675756835-santos-in-solitary-a-passionate-plea-to-president-trump">wrote in The South Shore Press</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 13. "I humbly ask that you consider the unusual pain and hardship of this environment and allow me the opportunity to return to my family, my friends, and my community.”Santos’ commutation is Trump’s latest high-profile&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nikola-trevor-milton-fraud-trump-pardon-3fcebb0a3820cecb205656f2dc3f6764">act of clemency</a>&nbsp;for former Republican politicians since retaking the White House in January.In late May, he pardoned former U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/michael-grimm">Michael Grimm</a>, a New York Republican who in 2014 pleaded guilty to underreporting wages and revenue at a restaurant he ran in Manhattan. He also pardoned former Connecticut Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/former-connecticut-governor-john-rowland-pardoned-trump-3f64b89567cb5f688808eb1b1ddd581f">John Rowland</a>, whose promising political career was upended by a corruption scandal and two federal prison stints.But in granting clemency to Santos, Trump was rewarding a figure who has drawn scorn from within his own party.After becoming the first openly gay Republican elected to Congress in 2022, Santos served less than a year after it was revealed that he had fabricated much of his life story.On the campaign trail, Santos had claimed he was a successful business consultant with Wall Street cred and a sizable real estate portfolio. But when his resume came under scrutiny, Santos eventually admitted he had never graduated from Baruch College — or been a standout player on the Manhattan college’s volleyball team, as he had claimed. He had never worked at Citigroup and Goldman Sachs.He wasn’t&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-business-bb455cc02b70e5366b9c5e347da8ad38">even Jewish</a>. Santos insisted he meant he was “Jew-ish” because his mother’s family had a Jewish background, even though he was raised Catholic.In truth, the then-34-year-old was struggling financially and even faced eviction.Santos was charged in 2023 with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-credit-card-fraud-f723e69a777b02a2e6b87595f45c21ce">stealing from donors and his campaign</a>, fraudulently collecting unemployment benefits and lying to Congress about his wealth.Within months, he was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-expulsion-vote-ethics-investigation-fd0f1524065883c6b2fe3e6f9afd84db">expelled from the U.S. House of Representatives</a>&nbsp;-- with 105 Republicans joining with Democrats to make Santos just the&nbsp;<a href="https://history.house.gov/Institution/Discipline/Expulsion-Censure-Reprimand/">sixth member</a>&nbsp;in the chamber’s history to be ousted by colleagues..Santos&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-plea-court-new-york-90741d068fd94090419fc0fd79be30cc">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;as he was set to stand trial.Still, a prominent former House colleague, U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marjorie-taylor-greene-republican-governor-georgia-3afd2ed330a227c42710ae664a12cf6a">Marjorie Taylor Greene</a>, urged the White House to commute Santos’ sentence, saying in a letter sent just days into his prison bid that the punishment was “a grave injustice” and a product of judicial overreach.Greene was among those who cheered the announcement Friday. But U.S. Rep. Nick LaLota, a Republican who represents part of Long Island and has been highly critical of Santos, said in a post on social media that Santos “didn’t merely lie” and his crimes “warrant more than a three-month sentence.”“He should devote the rest of his life to demonstrating remorse and making restitution to those he wronged,” LaLota said.Santos’ clemency appears to clear not just his prison term, but also any “further fines, restitution, probation, supervised release, or other conditions,” according to a copy of Trump’s order&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/EdMartinDOJ/status/1979311737943003393">posted on X</a>&nbsp;by Ed Martin, the Justice Department’s pardon attorney.As part of his guilty plea, Santos had agreed to pay restitution of $373,750 and forfeiture of $205,003.In explaining his reason for granting Santos clemency, Trump said the lies Santos told about himself were no worse than misleading statements U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal -- a Democrat and frequent critic of the administration -- had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-elections-politics-ct-state-wire-04d76dfc292548efb2d03b54c762a24b">made about his military record.</a>Blumenthal apologized 15 years ago for implying that he served in Vietnam, when he was stateside in the Marine Reserve during the war.“This is far worse than what George Santos did, and at least Santos had the Courage, Conviction, and Intelligence to ALWAYS VOTE REPUBLICAN!” Trump wrote.The president himself was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trial-deliberations-jury-testimony-verdict-85558c6d08efb434d05b694364470aa0">convicted in a New York court</a>&nbsp;last year in a case involving hush money payments. He derided the case as part of a politically motivated witch hunt.__Associated Press writers Michael R. Sisak in New York and Susan Haigh in Connecticut contributed to this report.

Trump commutes former Rep. George Santos' 7-year fraud sentence

WICHITA, Kan. — Wichita police have arrested an 18-year-old from Wichita, in connection with a shooting that left four people wounded.

Just before 3a.m. on October 12,&nbsp; police responded to a local hospital regarding multiple walk-in shooting victims. Upon arrival, officers located several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

Preliminary investigation revealed the victims were inside a vehicle at the intersection of Clifton and Morris in Wichita when an unknown suspect fired multiple shots at them.

The victims included a&nbsp;22-year-old woman who sustained an injury to her lower leg and was in stable condition.; a 21-year-old man with an injury to his lower leg and was in stable condition; a 19-year-old man with an injury to his midsection and was in stable condition and a 26-year-old man wath a gunshot wound to his upper body and was in critical condition.

Through the use of technology, including FLOCK, surveillance cameras, and NIBIN, investigators were able to identify and apprehend the 18-year-old suspect identified in booking records as Diego Murdock.

He has been arrested and is in custody on requested charges that include four counts of aggravated battery and one count of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle resulting in great bodily harm.&nbsp;

This case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office for formal charges.

&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at (316) 268-4407. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760696893152.png" alt="Murdock photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Murdock photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — Wichita police have arrested an 18-year-old from Wichita, in connection with a shooting that left four people wounded.Just before 3a.m. on October 12,&nbsp; police responded to a local hospital regarding multiple walk-in shooting victims. Upon arrival, officers located several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.Preliminary investigation revealed the victims were inside a vehicle at the intersection of Clifton and Morris in Wichita when an unknown suspect fired multiple shots at them.The victims included a&nbsp;22-year-old woman who sustained an injury to her lower leg and was in stable condition.; a 21-year-old man with an injury to his lower leg and was in stable condition; a 19-year-old man with an injury to his midsection and was in stable condition and a 26-year-old man wath a gunshot wound to his upper body and was in critical condition.Through the use of technology, including FLOCK, surveillance cameras, and NIBIN, investigators were able to identify and apprehend the 18-year-old suspect identified in booking records as Diego Murdock.He has been arrested and is in custody on requested charges that include four counts of aggravated battery and one count of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied vehicle resulting in great bodily harm.&nbsp;This case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office for formal charges.&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at (316) 268-4407. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111.

 Kansas teen jailed for shooting that left woman, 3 men injured

It is not a year with presidential candidates, but the Alfred E. Smith&nbsp; Memorial Foundation dinner at the&nbsp;at Waldorf Astoria in New York City still raised a lot of fun and funds Thursday night.

Former Secretaries of State Mike Pompeo and&nbsp;Antony Blinken delivered lighthearted remarks.&nbsp;They shared their experiences working under different administrations and discussed many topics, including diplomacy, foreign policy, and the 2025 New York City Mayoral race. Pomopeo also discussed his weight loss.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/former-secretaries-of-state-blinken-pompeo-at-alfred-e-smith-dinner/667251">Click here to watch a replay</a> of the fun at the dinner.

The white-tie dinner raises millions of dollars for Catholic charities and has traditionally offered candidates from both parties the chance to trade lighthearted barbs, poke fun at themselves and pretend to get along.

Pompeo was the nation’s top diplomat from 2018 to 2021 in the administration of President Donald Trump. He was the GOP congressman from Wichita from 2011 to 2017.

It is not a year with presidential candidates, but the Alfred E. Smith&nbsp; Memorial Foundation dinner at the&nbsp;at Waldorf Astoria in New York City still raised a lot of fun and funds Thursday night.Former Secretaries of State Mike Pompeo and&nbsp;Antony Blinken delivered lighthearted remarks.&nbsp;They shared their experiences working under different administrations and discussed many topics, including diplomacy, foreign policy, and the 2025 New York City Mayoral race. Pomopeo also discussed his weight loss.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;I&#39;ve lost over 90 pounds since leaving office.&quot; -- Mike Pompeo ... Al Smith dinner <a href="https://t.co/e10kfcNYNu">pic.twitter.com/e10kfcNYNu</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1979207793082036425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/former-secretaries-of-state-blinken-pompeo-at-alfred-e-smith-dinner/667251">Click here to watch a replay</a> of the fun at the dinner.The white-tie dinner raises millions of dollars for Catholic charities and has traditionally offered candidates from both parties the chance to trade lighthearted barbs, poke fun at themselves and pretend to get along.Pompeo was the nation’s top diplomat from 2018 to 2021 in the administration of President Donald Trump. He was the GOP congressman from Wichita from 2011 to 2017.

🎥Former Kan. Congressman a keynote roaster at Alfred E. Smith dinner

Kansas Democrats will gather in Hays Kansas to hear from key Democratic Leaders &amp; Statewide Candidates in the Democracy Fest Tour Final Stop.

The Kansas Democratic Party will be hosting Democrats in Hays for the final tour stop of Democracy Fest. This stop will feature Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass along with Statewide Candidates for Governor, Secretary of State, and the United States Senate. Additional speakers will include Kansas Democratic Party leaders and local elected officials. &nbsp;

“The Democracy Fest events across Kansas have been enormous successes which exemplifies how activated Democrats in Western Kansas and rural communities are at this crucial time in our state and our nation.” Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass said. “We have heard from Kansans from all parties during our events and they are committed to fairness and our shared values. The Kansas Democratic Party is dedicated to ensuring that all elected officials in our state are held to the highest standards of those shared values.”

Details for Hays Kansas Democracy Fest: Date:&nbsp;Saturday, October 18, 2025 Time:&nbsp;1:00pm – 4:00pm. Location:&nbsp;Bird Ranch, 1395 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736957202277.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedKansas Democrats will gather in Hays Kansas to hear from key Democratic Leaders &amp; Statewide Candidates in the Democracy Fest Tour Final Stop.The Kansas Democratic Party will be hosting Democrats in Hays for the final tour stop of Democracy Fest. This stop will feature Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass along with Statewide Candidates for Governor, Secretary of State, and the United States Senate. Additional speakers will include Kansas Democratic Party leaders and local elected officials. &nbsp;“The Democracy Fest events across Kansas have been enormous successes which exemplifies how activated Democrats in Western Kansas and rural communities are at this crucial time in our state and our nation.” Kansas Democratic Party Chair Jeanna Repass said. “We have heard from Kansans from all parties during our events and they are committed to fairness and our shared values. The Kansas Democratic Party is dedicated to ensuring that all elected officials in our state are held to the highest standards of those shared values.”Details for Hays Kansas Democracy Fest: Date:&nbsp;Saturday, October 18, 2025 Time:&nbsp;1:00pm – 4:00pm. Location:&nbsp;Bird Ranch, 1395 Rome Road, Hays, Kansas

Kansas Democratic Party to wrap up Democracy Fest Saturday in Hays

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Friday, October 17 KAYS: Fort Hays State VB vs. Central Oklahoma, 5:45pm KKQY: Hill City FB at Stockton, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Great Bend, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Syracuse, 6:30pm

Saturday, October 18 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Northwest Missouri State, 12:30pm

Sunday, October 19 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Los Vegas Raiders, 11:00am

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Friday, October 17 KAYS: Fort Hays State VB vs. Central Oklahoma, 5:45pm KKQY: Hill City FB at Stockton, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Great Bend, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Syracuse, 6:30pmSaturday, October 18 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Northwest Missouri State, 12:30pmSunday, October 19 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Los Vegas Raiders, 11:00am

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

WASHINGTON (AP) — Drugmaker EMD Serono will reduce the cost of a common fertility medication through a deal struck with the Trump administration,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Thursday while also unveiling new federal guidance he said will encourage employers to offer fertility coverage.

The new guidance will allow companies to offer fertility benefits separate from major medical insurance plans, like they do with dental and vision plans, Trump said.

“We want to make it easier for all couples to have babies, raise children and start the families they have always dreamed about,” Trump said.

The Oval Office announcement offers a first glimpse at how Trump plans to follow up on his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ivf-vitro-fertilization-trump-executive-order-65972cc1b10151bf1a0d9390fe5754d9">executive order</a>&nbsp;earlier this year aiming to reduce the cost of in vitro fertilization, a medical procedure that helps people facing infertility build their families. But it falls far short of his promise as a candidate to make IVF treatment free. It marks the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-astrazeneca-drug-prices-medicaid-tariffs-2da852b2edf18c72977fb922aa054e42">third deal</a>&nbsp;the administration has made with pharmaceutical companies to cut drug prices in recent weeks.

EMD Serono’s Gonal-f is among several drugs frequently used by patients going through IVF treatments — which involve using hormones to trigger ovulation, producing multiple eggs that are retrieved from the ovaries to be fertilized or frozen. The drugs can be expensive, often costing patients thousands of dollars for a single IVF cycle. Many patients trying to get pregnant through IVF go through more than one cycle.

The White House and EMD Serono said the drug, along with all its other IVF medications, will be available at a discount on TrumpRx, a government website where patients will be able to buy drugs directly from manufacturers. The Trump administration contends that the new website, which is expected to be running in 2026, will cut pharmaceutical costs by allowing people to buy them without a middleman.

Trump said the Food and Drug Administration will also be working with EMD Serono to expedite approval of another one of its fertility drugs available in Europe, called Pergoveris.

Dr. Mehmet Oz, who heads the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, said that as a result of the changes: “There are going to be a lot of Trump babies. I think that’s probably a good thing.”

Thursday’s announcement comes after Trump issued a February executive order pledging to make IVF more affordable. During his campaign last year, Trump pledged that if he was elected, he would make IVF treatment free.

“Under the Trump administration, your government will pay for — or your insurance company will be mandated to pay for — all costs associated with IVF treatment,” he said at an event in Michigan. “Because we want more babies, to put it nicely.”

That pledge came in the wake of growing pressure after his Supreme Court nominees helped overturn the right to abortion in Roe v. Wade that kicked off an effort in GOP-led states to impose new restrictions, including some that have threatened access to IVF by trying to define life as beginning at conception.

Asked on Thursday about conservatives who have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ivf-embryos-christian-evangelicals-alabama-dce11430993cf7e1047987fa3fb06ace">religious objections to IVF</a>&nbsp;and are critical of his support for it, Trump said he wasn’t aware of those views.

“I don’t know about the views of that,” Trump said. “I’m just looking to do something because, you know, pro-life, I think this is very pro-life.”

“You can’t get more pro-life than this,” he added.

Roger Shedlin, CEO of the fertility and family building benefits company WIN, on Wednesday expressed excitement about what he called “steps in the right direction.”

“Any initiative that addresses the cost of drugs will have a material positive impact on the overall cost of the fertility cycle,” he said.

Corinn O’Brien, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama, said anything to lower the costs of IVF would be “huge for families.”

O’Brien said she underwent three rounds of IVF and gave birth to a daughter in June. Each time, the drugs would cost anywhere from around $1,000 to $5,000.

She said covering the whole IVF cycle “ultimately would be a game changer for families,” but helping with the cost of drugs “is progress and is much appreciated.”

O’Brien added it would be great if more employers would cover fertility services because, for many, “this is their only chance to expand their family.”

Swenson reported from New York. Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Drugmaker EMD Serono will reduce the cost of a common fertility medication through a deal struck with the Trump administration,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Thursday while also unveiling new federal guidance he said will encourage employers to offer fertility coverage.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenKatieBritt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenKatieBritt</a>: &quot;President Trump very clearly said where he was on this, and he said &#39;I&#39;m going to make sure that [IVF] is more accessible and more affordable for families coast to coast&#39; ... President Trump wants to actually make things happen, that’s exactly what he did here.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/8WA3zdR3EN">pic.twitter.com/8WA3zdR3EN</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1978925718516949428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump on expanding IVF Access: &quot;Today I&#39;m pleased to announce that after extensive negotiations, EMD Serono the largest fertility drug manufacturer in the world, has agreed to provide massive discounts to all fertility drugs they sell in the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/8QHzjOtxN8">pic.twitter.com/8QHzjOtxN8</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1978914304381387193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The new guidance will allow companies to offer fertility benefits separate from major medical insurance plans, like they do with dental and vision plans, Trump said.“We want to make it easier for all couples to have babies, raise children and start the families they have always dreamed about,” Trump said.The Oval Office announcement offers a first glimpse at how Trump plans to follow up on his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ivf-vitro-fertilization-trump-executive-order-65972cc1b10151bf1a0d9390fe5754d9">executive order</a>&nbsp;earlier this year aiming to reduce the cost of in vitro fertilization, a medical procedure that helps people facing infertility build their families. But it falls far short of his promise as a candidate to make IVF treatment free. It marks the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-astrazeneca-drug-prices-medicaid-tariffs-2da852b2edf18c72977fb922aa054e42">third deal</a>&nbsp;the administration has made with pharmaceutical companies to cut drug prices in recent weeks.EMD Serono’s Gonal-f is among several drugs frequently used by patients going through IVF treatments — which involve using hormones to trigger ovulation, producing multiple eggs that are retrieved from the ovaries to be fertilized or frozen. The drugs can be expensive, often costing patients thousands of dollars for a single IVF cycle. Many patients trying to get pregnant through IVF go through more than one cycle.The White House and EMD Serono said the drug, along with all its other IVF medications, will be available at a discount on TrumpRx, a government website where patients will be able to buy drugs directly from manufacturers. The Trump administration contends that the new website, which is expected to be running in 2026, will cut pharmaceutical costs by allowing people to buy them without a middleman.Trump said the Food and Drug Administration will also be working with EMD Serono to expedite approval of another one of its fertility drugs available in Europe, called Pergoveris.Dr. Mehmet Oz, who heads the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, said that as a result of the changes: “There are going to be a lot of Trump babies. I think that’s probably a good thing.”Thursday’s announcement comes after Trump issued a February executive order pledging to make IVF more affordable. During his campaign last year, Trump pledged that if he was elected, he would make IVF treatment free.“Under the Trump administration, your government will pay for — or your insurance company will be mandated to pay for — all costs associated with IVF treatment,” he said at an event in Michigan. “Because we want more babies, to put it nicely.”That pledge came in the wake of growing pressure after his Supreme Court nominees helped overturn the right to abortion in Roe v. Wade that kicked off an effort in GOP-led states to impose new restrictions, including some that have threatened access to IVF by trying to define life as beginning at conception.Asked on Thursday about conservatives who have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ivf-embryos-christian-evangelicals-alabama-dce11430993cf7e1047987fa3fb06ace">religious objections to IVF</a>&nbsp;and are critical of his support for it, Trump said he wasn’t aware of those views.“I don’t know about the views of that,” Trump said. “I’m just looking to do something because, you know, pro-life, I think this is very pro-life.”“You can’t get more pro-life than this,” he added.Roger Shedlin, CEO of the fertility and family building benefits company WIN, on Wednesday expressed excitement about what he called “steps in the right direction.”“Any initiative that addresses the cost of drugs will have a material positive impact on the overall cost of the fertility cycle,” he said.Corinn O’Brien, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama, said anything to lower the costs of IVF would be “huge for families.”O’Brien said she underwent three rounds of IVF and gave birth to a daughter in June. Each time, the drugs would cost anywhere from around $1,000 to $5,000.She said covering the whole IVF cycle “ultimately would be a game changer for families,” but helping with the cost of drugs “is progress and is much appreciated.”O’Brien added it would be great if more employers would cover fertility services because, for many, “this is their only chance to expand their family.”___Swenson reported from New York. Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky.

🎥Trump deal will  lower the cost of a common IVF drug

The Board of Directors of the United Way of Ellis County is issuing an urgent call for help from businesses, residents and community partners. After years of declining funding, compounded by recent leadership instability, our organization is at a critical juncture — and we need Ellis County to step up now.

· Over the past several years, funding for United Way of Ellis County has steadily decreased by about 20% since 2021. Much of our revenue comes from donations made by local businesses and members of this community, and contributions have not kept pace with rising demand for services.

· In June 2025, our executive director position was vacated. The board undertook a careful search and identified a highly qualified candidate expected to begin in October. However, after months of waiting, we have recently learned this individual is backing out of the job. This unexpected development has again left us without permanent leadership during a time of great need.

· In the interim, Bill Ring graciously stepped in as temporary director, guiding operations and ensuring that critical work continued through these past few months. We thank Bill for his dedication and willingness to step up for the community during this transition.

How United Way Serves Ellis County

United Way of Ellis County plays a critical role in the community by raising funds and distributing them to partner agencies that deliver vital services. 

Some of our 2025 partner agencies include:

· Big Brothers Big Sisters — youth mentoring programs

· Cancer Council of Ellis County — financial assistance for cancer patients and nutritional support

· CASA of the High Plains — Advocacy for abused/neglected children

· Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas — Support for early intervention and job follow-along services

· First Call For Help — Local assistance, Meals on Wheels, Backpacks for Kids

· Habitat for Humanity — Affordable housing programs

· Hays Senior Center — Meal services

· Options – Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Services — Safe shelter and support

· Salvation Army — Financial assistance, food pantry services

· … and others that help with transportation, safe housing, crisis stabilization, parenting education, etc.

These agencies, and many more, depend on United Way of Ellis County for funding and support. When our funding falls short, so too do their services — at a time when many in our community are already stretched thin.

What we are asking from the community

1. Businesses: If your organization runs internal giving or payroll-deduction campaigns, we ask that you continue these efforts — and if possible, increase your contributions this year. Your ongoing support makes a measurable difference in ensuring basic human services remain available.

2. Residents: If you are able, please consider making a donation today. Even a modest increase over previous years helps multiply impact across all of our partner agencies. Every dollar stays local and supports people right here in Ellis County.

3. Potential leadership candidates: We are still actively recruiting for a dedicated, visionary executive director to lead United Way into a more stable future. If you know of someone who might be a strong fit, we encourage you to reach out to our board of directors.

The board of United Way of Ellis County remains committed to our mission: to support health, education, financial stability and resilience in our community. We believe deeply in the power of collaboration, and we believe that — together — Ellis County can overcome this moment of crisis.

We will continue to provide updates to the public as we secure new leadership and stabilize our funding base. In the meantime, we thank all those who have given in the past and strongly invite renewed and expanded support now.

— Jaden Richardson, board president of the United Way of Ellis County jrichardson@bankofhays.com director@liveunited.us

<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">Click here for more information on the United Way of Ellis County.</a>

<a href="https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/donate/?selected-method=one-time&amp;amount=50&amp;campaign_id=0">Or go straight to their donate page.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698091063975.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>The Board of Directors of the United Way of Ellis County is issuing an urgent call for help from businesses, residents and community partners. After years of declining funding, compounded by recent leadership instability, our organization is at a critical juncture — and we need Ellis County to step up now.Key Challenges We Face· Over the past several years, funding for United Way of Ellis County has steadily decreased by about 20% since 2021. Much of our revenue comes from donations made by local businesses and members of this community, and contributions have not kept pace with rising demand for services.· In June 2025, our executive director position was vacated. The board undertook a careful search and identified a highly qualified candidate expected to begin in October. However, after months of waiting, we have recently learned this individual is backing out of the job. This unexpected development has again left us without permanent leadership during a time of great need.· In the interim, Bill Ring graciously stepped in as temporary director, guiding operations and ensuring that critical work continued through these past few months. We thank Bill for his dedication and willingness to step up for the community during this transition.How United Way Serves Ellis CountyUnited Way of Ellis County plays a critical role in the community by raising funds and distributing them to partner agencies that deliver vital services. Some of our 2025 partner agencies include:· Big Brothers Big Sisters — youth mentoring programs· Cancer Council of Ellis County — financial assistance for cancer patients and nutritional support· CASA of the High Plains — Advocacy for abused/neglected children· Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas — Support for early intervention and job follow-along services· First Call For Help — Local assistance, Meals on Wheels, Backpacks for Kids· Habitat for Humanity — Affordable housing programs· Hays Senior Center — Meal services· Options – Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Services — Safe shelter and support· Salvation Army — Financial assistance, food pantry services· … and others that help with transportation, safe housing, crisis stabilization, parenting education, etc.These agencies, and many more, depend on United Way of Ellis County for funding and support. When our funding falls short, so too do their services — at a time when many in our community are already stretched thin.What we are asking from the community1. Businesses: If your organization runs internal giving or payroll-deduction campaigns, we ask that you continue these efforts — and if possible, increase your contributions this year. Your ongoing support makes a measurable difference in ensuring basic human services remain available.2. Residents: If you are able, please consider making a donation today. Even a modest increase over previous years helps multiply impact across all of our partner agencies. Every dollar stays local and supports people right here in Ellis County.3. Potential leadership candidates: We are still actively recruiting for a dedicated, visionary executive director to lead United Way into a more stable future. If you know of someone who might be a strong fit, we encourage you to reach out to our board of directors.Looking forwardThe board of United Way of Ellis County remains committed to our mission: to support health, education, financial stability and resilience in our community. We believe deeply in the power of collaboration, and we believe that — together — Ellis County can overcome this moment of crisis.We will continue to provide updates to the public as we secure new leadership and stabilize our funding base. In the meantime, we thank all those who have given in the past and strongly invite renewed and expanded support now.— Jaden Richardson, board president of the United Way of Ellis County jrichardson@bankofhays.com director@liveunited.us<a href="https://www.liveunited.us/">Click here for more information on the United Way of Ellis County.</a><a href="https://liveunited.harnessgiving.org/donate/?selected-method=one-time&amp;amount=50&amp;campaign_id=0">Or go straight to their donate page.</a>

LETTER: United Way of Ellis County needs community support to sustain vital services

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas woman who called 911 to report shooting her son in October of 2024 learned her fate on Friday.

On Friday, Judge Eric Williams sentenced&nbsp;Tesha Florence, 46, Wichita  to 194 months in prison with 36 months of post release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; She is also required to register as a violent offender.&nbsp;

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas woman who called 911 to report shooting her son in October of 2024 is expected to learn her fate on Friday.

Tesha Florence, 46, Wichita will attend a sentencing hearing&nbsp;in Judge Eric Williams courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In August, Florence pleaded no contest to charges of second degree murder,&nbsp; aggravated assault and aggravated burglary, according to the District Attorney's office.

On October 9, 2024, 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">&nbsp;Florence,</a>&nbsp;the boy's mother.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728510375843.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas woman who called 911 to report shooting her son in October of 2024 learned her fate on Friday.On Friday, Judge Eric Williams sentenced&nbsp;Tesha Florence, 46, Wichita to 194 months in prison with 36 months of post release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; She is also required to register as a violent offender.&nbsp;---------------SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas woman who called 911 to report shooting her son in October of 2024 is expected to learn her fate on Friday.Tesha Florence, 46, Wichita will attend a sentencing hearing&nbsp;in Judge Eric Williams courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County 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>In August, Florence pleaded no contest to charges of second degree murder,&nbsp; aggravated assault and aggravated burglary, according to the District Attorney's office.On October 9, 2024, 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">&nbsp;Florence,</a>&nbsp;the boy's mother.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the investigation into this case, detectives learned of a previously unreported incident from March 2024 where Florence threatened an ex-husband and his current girlfriend with a gun.

Sentencing day for Kan. mother who admitted killing 16-year-old son

SALINE COUNTY—Police arrested a Salina FedEx employee for allegedly making a threat to 'shoot up the business.'&nbsp;

Just after 2p.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police were dispatched to FedEx, 3450 Centennial Road in Salina about an employee who made allegedly made threat a coworker, according to a media release from Salina Police.

Prior to the report, the suspect identified as 19-year -old Trenton Fears made a threat on Monday, October 13 to a coworker when they were on the jobsite. Allegedly the coworker said something to Fears, which prompted him to make the threat.

That same day, Fears went to another coworker and told them to 'not show up to work the following day.'&nbsp;

The next day, October 14, Fears told the coworker he threatened, that he would 'shoot the facility up.'

Management then called Salina Police on Wednesday regarding the threat. Fears was not at FedEx initially, but showed up at a later time and officers immediately arrived to the scene.&nbsp;

Fears was then arrested and booked into the Saline County Jail for the requested charge of Criminal Threat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760658717901.png" alt="Fears photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Fears photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Police arrested a Salina FedEx employee for allegedly making a threat to 'shoot up the business.'&nbsp;Just after 2p.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; police were dispatched to FedEx, 3450 Centennial Road in Salina about an employee who made allegedly made threat a coworker, according to a media release from Salina Police.Prior to the report, the suspect identified as 19-year -old Trenton Fears made a threat on Monday, October 13 to a coworker when they were on the jobsite. Allegedly the coworker said something to Fears, which prompted him to make the threat.That same day, Fears went to another coworker and told them to 'not show up to work the following day.'&nbsp;The next day, October 14, Fears told the coworker he threatened, that he would 'shoot the facility up.'Management then called Salina Police on Wednesday regarding the threat. Fears was not at FedEx initially, but showed up at a later time and officers immediately arrived to the scene.&nbsp;Fears was then arrested and booked into the Saline County Jail for the requested charge of Criminal Threat.

Kansas man accused of threat of violence to work place

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for a double murder at a mobile home park in 2021.

On October 10, Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced 35-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Steven Fessenden to 188 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In Augus, Fessenden pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter.&nbsp;

On April 24,&nbsp; 2021 sheriff's deputies were sent to a check shots call at the Englewood mobile home park located at 3201 E MacArthur in Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

While responding, deputies received information that a man and woman were inside the residence with apparent gunshot wounds.

When deputies arrived, they had to force entry to the home. Inside the home, they located 42-year-old Nathan Brock and 41-year-old Trisha Benjamin deceased, according to Blick.

On April 26,&nbsp;Sedgwick County Sheriff’s detectives arrested and booked&nbsp; Fessenden of Wichita for the murder. He was not charged in the crime.

Sheriff’s deputies arrested Fessenden a second time in connection to the deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619305057074.png" alt="Police tape near the fatal shooting investigation in April 2021 -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police tape near the fatal shooting investigation in April 2021 -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man is going to prison for a double murder at a mobile home park in 2021.On October 10, Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced 35-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Steven Fessenden to 188 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666976072271.png" alt="Fessenden photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Fessenden photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>In Augus, Fessenden pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter.&nbsp;On April 24,&nbsp; 2021 sheriff's deputies were sent to a check shots call at the Englewood mobile home park located at 3201 E MacArthur in Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.While responding, deputies received information that a man and woman were inside the residence with apparent gunshot wounds.When deputies arrived, they had to force entry to the home. Inside the home, they located 42-year-old Nathan Brock and 41-year-old Trisha Benjamin deceased, according to Blick.On April 26,&nbsp;Sedgwick County Sheriff’s detectives arrested and booked&nbsp; Fessenden of Wichita for the murder. He was not charged in the crime.Sheriff’s deputies arrested Fessenden a second time in connection to the deaths.

Man going to prison for Kansas double-murder

MORRISTOWN, N.J. (AP) — Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kiss-band-history-2770bdbbf2f1f39049baf412864818c3">glam rock band Kiss</a>, who captivated audiences with his elaborate galactic makeup and smoking guitar, died Thursday. He was 74.

Frehley died peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall, according to his agent.

Family members said in a statement that they are “completely devastated and heartbroken” but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others.

Kiss, whose hits included “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You," was known for its theatrical stage shows, with fire and fake blood spewing from the mouths of band members dressed in body armor, platform boots, wigs and signature black-and-white face paint.

Kiss' original lineup included Frehley, singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, tongue-wagging bassist Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss. Frehley’s is the first death among the four founding members.

Band members took on the personas of comic book-style characters — Frehley was known as “Space Ace” and “The Spaceman.” The New York-born entertainer and Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Famer often experimented with pyrotechnics, making his guitars glow, emit smoke and shoot rockets from the headstock.

“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley,” Simmons and Stanley&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ace-frehley-tributes-321626f046ed5c5e557f9c2aad28ada2">said in a joint statement.</a>&nbsp;“He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”

Born Paul Daniel Frehley, he grew up in a musical family and began playing guitar at age 13. Before joining Kiss, he played in local bands around New York City and was a roadie for Jimi Hendrix at age 18.

Kiss was especially popular in the mid-1970s, selling tens of millions of albums and licensing its iconic look to become a marketing marvel. “Beth” was its biggest commercial hit in the U.S., peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1976.

As the Kennedy Center’s new chairman, President Donald Trump named Kiss as one of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-kennedy-center-honorees-6c553c800ba334ad1ea47858b3dc271c">this year’s honorees</a>.

In 2024, the band sold their catalog, brand name and intellectual property to Swedish company Pophouse Entertainment Group in a deal estimated to be over $300 million.

Frehley frequently feuded with Stanley and Simmons through the years. He left the band in 1982, missing the years when they took off the makeup and had mixed success. Stanley later said they nearly replaced Frehley with Eddie Van Halen, but Vinnie Vincent assumed the lead guitar role.

Frehley performed both as a solo artist and with his band, Frehley’s Comet.

But he rejoined Kiss in the mid-1990s for a triumphant reunion and restoration of their original style that came after bands including Nirvana, Weezer and the Melvins had expressed affection for the band and paid them musical tributes.

He would leave again in 2002. When the original four entered the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, a dispute scrapped plans for them to perform. Simmons and Stanley objected to Criss and Frehley being inducted instead of then-guitarist Tommy Thayer and then-drummer Eric Singer.

Simmons told Rolling Stone magazine that year that Frehley and Criss “no longer deserve to wear the paint.” “The makeup is earned,” he added. “Just being there at the beginning is not enough.”

Frehley and Kiss also had a huge influence on the glammy style of 1980s so-called hair metal bands including Mötley Crüe and Poison.

“Ace, my brother, I surely cannot thank you enough for the years of great music, the many festivals we’ve done together and your lead guitar on Nothing But A Good Time,” Poison front man&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DP4zYL-EpAq/?hl=en">Bret Michaels</a>&nbsp;said on Instagram.

Harder-edged bands like Metallica and Pantera were also fans, and even country superstar Garth Brooks joined the band members for a recording of their “Hard Luck Woman” on a 1994 compilation.

Frehley would appear occasionally with Kiss for shows in later years. A 2023 concert at Madison Square Garden was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kiss-digital-avatars-end-of-road-finale-37a8ae9905099343c7b41654b2344d0c">billed as the band’s last.</a>&nbsp;While Stanley and Simmons said they would not tour again, they’ve been open to the possibility of more concerts, and they’ve stayed active promoting the group’s music and memorabilia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760654042119.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MORRISTOWN, N.J. (AP) — Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and founding member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kiss-band-history-2770bdbbf2f1f39049baf412864818c3">glam rock band Kiss</a>, who captivated audiences with his elaborate galactic makeup and smoking guitar, died Thursday. He was 74.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our hearts are broken. Ace has passed on. No one can touch Ace’s legacy. I know he loved the fans. He told me many times. Sadder still, Ace didn’t live long enough to be honored at the Kennedy Ctr Honors event in Dec. Ace was the eternal rock soldier. Long may his legacy live on!&mdash; Gene Simmons (@genesimmons) <a href="https://twitter.com/genesimmons/status/1978970732836036970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Kennedy Center is saddened to hear of the passing of one of this year’s Kennedy Center Honorees, Ace Frehley of the band KISS. We send our deepest condolences to his friends, his family, and millions of fans worldwide. We will be paying tribute to this &quot;rock soldier&quot;, his… <a href="https://t.co/7wkAHIufDE">pic.twitter.com/7wkAHIufDE</a>&mdash; The Kennedy Center (@kencen) <a href="https://twitter.com/kencen/status/1978953977959002162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Frehley died peacefully surrounded by family in Morristown, New Jersey, following a recent fall, according to his agent.Family members said in a statement that they are “completely devastated and heartbroken” but will cherish his laughter and celebrate the kindness he bestowed upon others.Kiss, whose hits included “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You," was known for its theatrical stage shows, with fire and fake blood spewing from the mouths of band members dressed in body armor, platform boots, wigs and signature black-and-white face paint.Kiss' original lineup included Frehley, singer-guitarist Paul Stanley, tongue-wagging bassist Gene Simmons and drummer Peter Criss. Frehley’s is the first death among the four founding members.Band members took on the personas of comic book-style characters — Frehley was known as “Space Ace” and “The Spaceman.” The New York-born entertainer and Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Famer often experimented with pyrotechnics, making his guitars glow, emit smoke and shoot rockets from the headstock.“We are devastated by the passing of Ace Frehley,” Simmons and Stanley&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ace-frehley-tributes-321626f046ed5c5e557f9c2aad28ada2">said in a joint statement.</a>&nbsp;“He was an essential and irreplaceable rock soldier during some of the most formative foundational chapters of the band and its history. He is and will always be a part of KISS’s legacy.”Born Paul Daniel Frehley, he grew up in a musical family and began playing guitar at age 13. Before joining Kiss, he played in local bands around New York City and was a roadie for Jimi Hendrix at age 18.Kiss was especially popular in the mid-1970s, selling tens of millions of albums and licensing its iconic look to become a marketing marvel. “Beth” was its biggest commercial hit in the U.S., peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Top 100 in 1976.As the Kennedy Center’s new chairman, President Donald Trump named Kiss as one of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-kennedy-center-honorees-6c553c800ba334ad1ea47858b3dc271c">this year’s honorees</a>.In 2024, the band sold their catalog, brand name and intellectual property to Swedish company Pophouse Entertainment Group in a deal estimated to be over $300 million.Frehley frequently feuded with Stanley and Simmons through the years. He left the band in 1982, missing the years when they took off the makeup and had mixed success. Stanley later said they nearly replaced Frehley with Eddie Van Halen, but Vinnie Vincent assumed the lead guitar role.Frehley performed both as a solo artist and with his band, Frehley’s Comet.But he rejoined Kiss in the mid-1990s for a triumphant reunion and restoration of their original style that came after bands including Nirvana, Weezer and the Melvins had expressed affection for the band and paid them musical tributes.He would leave again in 2002. When the original four entered the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, a dispute scrapped plans for them to perform. Simmons and Stanley objected to Criss and Frehley being inducted instead of then-guitarist Tommy Thayer and then-drummer Eric Singer.Simmons told Rolling Stone magazine that year that Frehley and Criss “no longer deserve to wear the paint.” “The makeup is earned,” he added. “Just being there at the beginning is not enough.”Frehley and Kiss also had a huge influence on the glammy style of 1980s so-called hair metal bands including Mötley Crüe and Poison.“Ace, my brother, I surely cannot thank you enough for the years of great music, the many festivals we’ve done together and your lead guitar on Nothing But A Good Time,” Poison front man&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DP4zYL-EpAq/?hl=en">Bret Michaels</a>&nbsp;said on Instagram.Harder-edged bands like Metallica and Pantera were also fans, and even country superstar Garth Brooks joined the band members for a recording of their “Hard Luck Woman” on a 1994 compilation.Frehley would appear occasionally with Kiss for shows in later years. A 2023 concert at Madison Square Garden was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kiss-digital-avatars-end-of-road-finale-37a8ae9905099343c7b41654b2344d0c">billed as the band’s last.</a>&nbsp;While Stanley and Simmons said they would not tour again, they’ve been open to the possibility of more concerts, and they’ve stayed active promoting the group’s music and memorabilia.

Kiss' original lead guitarist and founding member dies at 74

AnnaBell married Bernard Herman Ostmeyer on October 28, 1947. Eight children were born to Ben and AnnaBell:  Timothy Bernard Ostmeyer (deceased); Carol Ann Cooper of Hoxie, Kansas; Deborah Dea Ochs (Daniel) of Grainfield, Kansas; Margaret Marie Pope (Wally) of Skiatook, Oklahoma; Angela Mary Pope (Jon) of Manhattan, Kansas; Catherine Jane White (Harry) of Monument, Colorado; Charles James Ostmeyer (Cindy) of Milford, Kansas; and Jessica Jo Ostmeyer of Hill City, Kansas.  AnnaBell was a Grandmother to 22, Great-Grandmother to 54, and Great-Great-Grandmother to 10.

For over 50 years, AnnaBell nurtured children with love, patience, and compassion. She was a guide and mentor to countless families in Hoxie. AnnaBell’s home was more than a daycare, it was a safe haven where laughter echoed, tiny hands held, skinned knees kissed, and young hearts and minds shaped. AnnaBell had a gift for making her daycare parents and children feel seen and cherished and her impact will live on through the many lives she touched. Parents trusted AnnaBell for the genuine care and connection she shared with them and their children.

When her day at the daycare ended, AnnaBell shared her great musical talent. She found joy as an organist at church and as a piano teacher to many children and their children in later years.

AnnaBell is preceded in death by her husband, Ben; son, Tim; son-in-law, Gregg Cooper; and grandsons-in-law, Adam Creamer and George Modricin, as well as her father and mother; brothers, Bill, Charlie, Francis, Jim, and Bobby, and sisters, Bea and Rose Marie.

Left surviving AnnaBell are her children and their families, Carol, Deb, Marge, Angie, Cathy, Charlie, and Jessica, and her brother, Denny Beckman, of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Mass of Christian Burial iwill be held Saturday, October 18, 2025, 10:30 AM, St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas with burial in the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Cemetery.  The Visitation will be Thursday, October 17, 2025, 4:00 PM – 7:00 Pm at the Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home in Hoxie, Kansas.  Family will receive friends from 5:30 PM untio 7:00 PM.  Vigil and Service will immediately follow the visitation at 7:00 at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Cemetery, Sheridan County Benefit wilk or of donor’s choice.  Memorials may be sent to the Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.

AnnaBell’s smile, soft touch, and warm heart will be missed by her family and the many people lucky enough to have known her. It was heard numerous times in her last days how her touch to a cheek, a wink, and her radiant smile will be very missed by all those around her.

We held her hands while we prayed, asking Jesus to take her home.  We caressed her soft skin.  We realized how her hands had served her well throughout the years.  Though wrinkled, shriveled, and weak, her hands had been tools used to reach out and embrace life. Words written by AnnaBell on April 23, 2012

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760647457873.jpeg" alt="AnnaBell Mae (Beckman) Ostmeyer" />
 <figcaption>AnnaBell Mae (Beckman) Ostmeyer</figcaption>
 </figure>AnnaBell married Bernard Herman Ostmeyer on October 28, 1947. Eight children were born to Ben and AnnaBell: Timothy Bernard Ostmeyer (deceased); Carol Ann Cooper of Hoxie, Kansas; Deborah Dea Ochs (Daniel) of Grainfield, Kansas; Margaret Marie Pope (Wally) of Skiatook, Oklahoma; Angela Mary Pope (Jon) of Manhattan, Kansas; Catherine Jane White (Harry) of Monument, Colorado; Charles James Ostmeyer (Cindy) of Milford, Kansas; and Jessica Jo Ostmeyer of Hill City, Kansas. AnnaBell was a Grandmother to 22, Great-Grandmother to 54, and Great-Great-Grandmother to 10.For over 50 years, AnnaBell nurtured children with love, patience, and compassion. She was a guide and mentor to countless families in Hoxie. AnnaBell’s home was more than a daycare, it was a safe haven where laughter echoed, tiny hands held, skinned knees kissed, and young hearts and minds shaped. AnnaBell had a gift for making her daycare parents and children feel seen and cherished and her impact will live on through the many lives she touched. Parents trusted AnnaBell for the genuine care and connection she shared with them and their children.When her day at the daycare ended, AnnaBell shared her great musical talent. She found joy as an organist at church and as a piano teacher to many children and their children in later years.AnnaBell is preceded in death by her husband, Ben; son, Tim; son-in-law, Gregg Cooper; and grandsons-in-law, Adam Creamer and George Modricin, as well as her father and mother; brothers, Bill, Charlie, Francis, Jim, and Bobby, and sisters, Bea and Rose Marie.Left surviving AnnaBell are her children and their families, Carol, Deb, Marge, Angie, Cathy, Charlie, and Jessica, and her brother, Denny Beckman, of Colorado Springs, Colorado.Mass of Christian Burial iwill be held Saturday, October 18, 2025, 10:30 AM, St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas with burial in the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Cemetery. The Visitation will be Thursday, October 17, 2025, 4:00 PM – 7:00 Pm at the Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home in Hoxie, Kansas. Family will receive friends from 5:30 PM untio 7:00 PM. Vigil and Service will immediately follow the visitation at 7:00 at the funeral home. Memorials are suggested to the St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Cemetery, Sheridan County Benefit wilk or of donor’s choice. Memorials may be sent to the Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home, PO Box 987, Hoxie, Kansas 67740.AnnaBell’s smile, soft touch, and warm heart will be missed by her family and the many people lucky enough to have known her. It was heard numerous times in her last days how her touch to a cheek, a wink, and her radiant smile will be very missed by all those around her.We held her hands while we prayed, asking Jesus to take her home. We caressed her soft skin. We realized how her hands had served her well throughout the years. Though wrinkled, shriveled, and weak, her hands had been tools used to reach out and embrace life. Words written by AnnaBell on April 23, 2012

AnnaBell Mae (Beckman) Ostmeyer

Cynthia L. 'Cindy' Wilhelm, 62, of La Crosse, Kansas, passed away October 15, 2025 in La Crosse. She was born on May 16, 1963, in Great Bend, Kansas, to Ronald and Diane Wilhelm. 

She was the proud owner of Grasshoppers Vapes in Hays, Kansas, and previously operated CW Transportation, where she worked as both owner and driver. Her entrepreneurial spirit and hard-working nature were matched only by her adventurous outlook on life. 

Cindy shared 25 wonderful years of marriage with her wife, Theresa Herlocker. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and companionship, always supporting one another through every adventure and challenge. 

Those who knew Cindy will remember her deep love for animals and the many pets she cared for throughout her life. She also took great pride in the beautiful plants she grew, nurturing them with the same care and attention she gave to those around her. Her kind heart, outgoing personality, and lasting friendships will be remembered by all who knew her. 

She is survived by her wife, Theresa Herlocker; her mother, Diane Wilhelm; her sister, Coleen Wilhelm; her niece, Billi Sue; and her nephews, Tyler, Craig, Jason, Aaron, and Blake. Cindy was preceded in death by her father, Ronald Wilhelm, and her sister, Christy Keenan. 

No services are planned at this time. Memorials are not requested. 

Arrangements entrusted to Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760641865239.jpeg" alt="Cynthia L. 'Cindy' Wilhelm" />
 <figcaption>Cynthia L. 'Cindy' Wilhelm</figcaption>
 </figure>Cynthia L. 'Cindy' Wilhelm, 62, of La Crosse, Kansas, passed away October 15, 2025 in La Crosse. She was born on May 16, 1963, in Great Bend, Kansas, to Ronald and Diane Wilhelm. She was the proud owner of Grasshoppers Vapes in Hays, Kansas, and previously operated CW Transportation, where she worked as both owner and driver. Her entrepreneurial spirit and hard-working nature were matched only by her adventurous outlook on life. Cindy shared 25 wonderful years of marriage with her wife, Theresa Herlocker. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and companionship, always supporting one another through every adventure and challenge. Those who knew Cindy will remember her deep love for animals and the many pets she cared for throughout her life. She also took great pride in the beautiful plants she grew, nurturing them with the same care and attention she gave to those around her. Her kind heart, outgoing personality, and lasting friendships will be remembered by all who knew her. She is survived by her wife, Theresa Herlocker; her mother, Diane Wilhelm; her sister, Coleen Wilhelm; her niece, Billi Sue; and her nephews, Tyler, Craig, Jason, Aaron, and Blake. Cindy was preceded in death by her father, Ronald Wilhelm, and her sister, Christy Keenan. No services are planned at this time. Memorials are not requested. Arrangements entrusted to Janousek Funeral Home, La Crosse, Kansas.