Hutchinson Public Schools officials are encouraging voters to learn the facts about the district’s upcoming bond proposal, emphasizing transparency, affordability, and long-term benefits for students and the community.

Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson, and Curriculum Coordinator Lisa Yantes, discussed the plan and addressed key questions in a recent interview.

Understanding the bond proposal Dr. Johnson said the district’s website, usd308.com, is the best single source of information about the bond, including a bond calculator that allows property owners to see exactly how the proposal would affect their taxes.

“For a $100,000 home, the five mills would cost less than $5 a month,” Johnson explained. “You can plug in your market value, and it will calculate your annual and monthly change.”

If approved, the district’s mill levy would rise from about 52 to 57 mills — still lower than many surrounding school districts. Johnson noted that USD 308 has lowered its mill levy nine times in the past ten years, dropping it by 3.5 mills overall, and that this increase is designed to keep Hutchinson competitive with nearby communities such as Andover, Derby, and Goddard that have all passed new school bonds.

Addressing common questions Johnson said much of the current discussion stems from understandable concerns about property taxes and enrollment.

“Property values have gone up significantly — about 65% in some cases — and that drives up taxes even when the mill rate stays low,” she said. “At the same time, we’ve continued to reduce our mill levy wherever possible.”

As for declining enrollment, Johnson clarified that the issue is tied to countywide population decline, not a lack of confidence in Hutchinson schools.

“In 2015, we had 4,700 students; today we have about 4,000,” she said. “Those 4,000 deserve the same quality education as their predecessors. Hutchinson isn’t a dying town — it’s growing, with new industries coming in. Quality schools are vital for attracting families and businesses.”

Building locations and floodplain concerns Johnson said heat mapping data showed that most USD 308 students live between 4th Avenue and 23rd Avenue, making a central campus location most efficient.

The district is also addressing concerns about a potential floodplain near the proposed middle school site. “Civil engineers are working closely with the city,” Johnson said. “There’s already a planned retention pond and other mitigation steps. The floodplain designation may even be overstated.”

Repurposing, not abandoning, buildings The bond plan calls for repurposing the first floor of HMS-8 for early childhood education — a $5 million project that saves over $20 million compared to building new.

“We’ve had a lot of interest from organizations in the buildings we’d take offline,” Johnson said. “Nothing will just sit empty.”

Acedemic benefits and curriculum alignment Curriculum Coordinator Lisa Yantes emphasized how the middle school redesign would strengthen learning continuity.

“When sixth, seventh, and eighth grades are together, teachers can collaborate more effectively,” Yantes said. “It allows us to align curriculum across subjects and create a smoother transition into high school.”

Yantes also highlighted the district’s strong dual-credit and technical education programs, noting that many Hutchinson High students graduate with college credits — sometimes enough to earn a degree a year early.

By the numbers: Hutchinson vs area schools Dr. Johnson shared comparative data showing USD 308’s performance in line with other area districts: •&nbsp;&nbsp;Graduation rate: 92% (comparable to nearby schools ranging 84–94%) •&nbsp;&nbsp;Per-pupil spending: $18,400 (close to the state average of $18,300) •&nbsp;&nbsp;ACT and proficiency scores: Middle of the regional range •&nbsp;&nbsp;Technical and college courses offered: 206 technical, 112 college — among the highest in the region

Voting details and professionals development Early voting begins Monday, Oct. 21, at the Reno County Annex, with Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

Yantes also noted that USD 308 teachers will participate in a district-wide professional development day focused on “visible learning,” designed to help educators clearly define learning goals and success criteria for students.

For full bond details, tax calculators, and project renderings, residents can visit <a href="https://www.usd308.com/o/usd-308/page/bond">usd308.com</a>

USD 308 leaders address bond proposal, tax impact, and educational opportunities

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HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre is getting an energy-efficient upgrade thanks to a hometown partnership with Superior Boiler.

The Hutchinson-based manufacturer has donated a new Arrowhead firebox boiler and blowdown separator to replace the theatre’s 33-year-old Osage unit, also built by Superior Boiler. The installation ensures the continued comfort and operation of one of Hutchinson’s most iconic landmarks.

“We are honored to support the Hutchinson Fox Theatre with this boiler donation,” said Doug Wright, president and CEO of Superior Boiler. “The Fox Theatre is a cultural staple in our community, and we’re proud that our equipment has played a role in maintaining a comfortable environment for its visitors over the years. With this new boiler, the theatre will experience many more years of dependable service.”

The new Arrowhead model offers the same capacity and low-pressure steam design as the previous unit but in a smaller, more efficient package. It fits through a standard 36-inch doorway for easier installation and provides enhanced energy efficiency, translating to long-term savings for the theatre.

Superior Boiler’s contribution also includes a matching blowdown separator, which safely cools and depressurizes boiler water before disposal — a feature now required under updated local regulations. The separator improves both safety and equipment lifespan by removing impurities from the system.

This isn’t the first time Superior Boiler has stepped up to help the Fox. The company’s original Osage boiler was donated in the early 1990s as part of the venue’s decade-long restoration campaign — a gift that helped rally additional community support for the project.

“We are incredibly grateful for this generous donation from Superior Boiler,” said Josh Davies, executive and technical director at the Fox Theatre. “Their support ensures that we can continue to provide an exceptional experience for our guests while preserving the legacy of this beautiful venue.”

Opened in 1931, the Fox Theatre remains a centerpiece for arts and entertainment in downtown Hutchinson, welcoming about 40,000 patrons each year for concerts, films, and community events. The “State Movie Palace of Kansas,” listed on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, continues to rely on steam heat as it has since its debut.

“As a company that has called Hutchinson home for many years, we take great pride in being part of this community and supporting its historic institutions,” said Matt Steele, Superior Boiler’s vice president of sales and marketing. “Hutchinson has been instrumental in our success. We are committed to giving back in meaningful ways, and we look forward to many more opportunities to support the city’s institutions.”

Superior Boiler donates new system to power Hutchinson’s historic Fox Theatre

The Reno County Health Department Advisory Board is looking for volunteers who want to make a difference!

As a board member, you’ll help guide public health programs, advise the Health Department Director, and make sure community voices are heard.

They’re especially seeking people passionate about key local priorities — like substance misuse, mental health, childcare, and access to care.

The board meets once a month, and members serve a three-year term. Applications are open now through November 12th!

Find all the details and apply online at <a href="http://renocountyks.gov/Get-Involved">renocountyks.gov/Get-Involved</a>.

Health department looking for new advisory board members

The Hutchinson Art Center is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the year — the annual Autumn Consignment Art Auction — taking place Saturday, Oct. 18. Doors open at 9 a.m. for registration, and bidding begins at 11 a.m.&nbsp;

Executive Director Emily Kohls and board member Barbara Withrow said the auction will feature 127 works of art, including pieces by well-known local and regional artists such as Jack Stout, Mike Livingston, Mace John, Carolyn Dillon and Pat Potucek.&nbsp;

“This year’s auction has one of the most outstanding selections we’ve ever had,” Withrow said. “We’ve had a lot of interest in local favorites like Stout and Dillon, but we’re also showcasing regional, national, and even international artists.”&nbsp;

Kohls noted that the 2025 auction features an exceptional range of three-dimensional art pieces. “We’ve got more 3D artwork this year than I’ve ever seen — ceramics, glass, and sculpture. It’s truly a beautiful variety,” she said.&nbsp;

Among the standout items are a Navajo rug with vivid red hues, a two-foot-tall Kachina doll, and glass and ceramic works from artists such as Rick Garnett and Carolyn Dillon. The auction also includes rare signed prints, including one by famed Southwestern artist Ted DeGrazia, along with pottery, jewelry, and other collectibles.&nbsp;

For those who wish to preview the collection, all pieces are available to view online at <a href="http://hutchinsonartcenter.net">hutchinsonartcenter.net</a> under the “Exhibitions” tab or in person at the Art Center, 405 N. Washington, during regular hours.&nbsp;

Regular hours at the Hutchinson Art Center are noon to 5 p.m. Monday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.&nbsp;

For more information about the auction or to become a member, visit <a href="http://hutchinsonartcenter.net">hutchinsonartcenter.net</a> or call (620) 662-1280

Hutchinson Art Center set for annual Autumn Consignment Art Auction Saturday

Adam Pina from the SW Bricktown Association stopped by the BW Morning Show to visit about the upcoming SW Bricktown Fiesta.&nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show interview: Adam Pina, SW Bricktown Association

BUHLER, Kan. — After more than three decades of leadership, Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community CEO Keith Pankratz will retire on Dec. 19, 2025, marking the end of a 36-year career that helped transform the Buhler-based facility into one of Kansas’ leading senior care providers.

Pankratz guided Sunshine Meadows’ evolution from a small nursing home into a full Continuum of Care Retirement Community, while also serving as a driving force for senior care advancement locally and statewide. He played key roles on the city’s economic development committee, helped found the Progressive Healthcare Alliance, and was active in multiple senior living boards and the Buhler Kiwanis Club.

The Sunshine Meadows Board of Directors announced that Nathan Spencer, who has served as executive director and administrator, will officially succeed Pankratz. Spencer, a longtime SMRC employee, began his career there in 2011 after working for the City of Buhler’s maintenance department. Under Pankratz’s mentorship, he rose through several leadership roles before earning his administrator license in 2022 and stepping into the administrator position in January 2023.

“Keith’s leadership has shaped not only this organization, but also my own journey,” Spencer said. “I look forward to continuing the mission of providing compassionate, Christ-centered care and ensuring Sunshine Meadows remains a place where residents feel at home.”

To celebrate Pankratz’s retirement, Sunshine Meadows will host a staff luncheon and a community reception on Dec. 19 from 4–6 p.m. Residents, staff, families, and community members are invited to attend.

“The Sunshine Meadows Board expresses its deepest gratitude to Keith for his years of dedicated leadership and the profound impact he has had on our residents, families, and staff,” said Mary Frazier, board chair. “We are delighted to welcome Nathan Spencer, who will carry on his legacy of care and commitment to our community.”

Sunshine Meadows CEO Keith Pankratz retiring after 36 years; Nathan Spencer named successor

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Martin	Ramon	Duran		10/16/2025 8:17&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Timothy	Lucas	Allen		10/16/2025 2:00&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Leroy	Cornelius	Paige	Jr	10/16/2025 2:56&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Alexis		Lopez		10/16/2025 4:06&nbsp;PM	Battery on LEO; State correctional officer

Curtis	Kane	Chappel		10/16/2025 6:44&nbsp;PM	DWS; 1st conviction

Jordan	Lovell	Jackson		10/16/2025 7:50&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Wesley	Richard	Wohlschlegel		10/16/2025 10:23&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation, DWS; 3rd or subs conv

Virgil	Wayne	Skaggs		10/17/2025 12:17&nbsp;AM	Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000,&nbsp;Viol protection order; Restraining order

Daily Bookings

Beginning September 24, 2025, Reno County EMS staff have been visiting local businesses, schools, churches, and other organizations to make sure Automated External Defibrillators — or AEDs — are properly registered, maintained, and ready for use in an emergency.

The outreach effort follows a new Kansas law that took effect July 1 requiring all AEDs to be registered through the PulsePoint app. The app allows emergency responders to quickly locate nearby defibrillators when someone experiences cardiac arrest and ensures that each device’s batteries and pads are up to date.

According to Reno County EMS Education Coordinator Connor Bounds, the verification process also opens doors for community outreach and training. EMS personnel are using site visits to educate the public about CPR, first aid, and the importance of AED maintenance.

Since the inspections began, EMS has already found locations with expired supplies and others that have recently added additional AEDs. The initiative has also sparked new interest from community members who want to learn bystander CPR.

Each minute counts during a cardiac emergency. National data show that for every minute a person in cardiac arrest does not receive CPR or have an AED applied, their chance of survival decreases by about 10 percent. With more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occurring outside hospitals each year and fewer than 10 percent surviving, EMS officials say widespread AED access and community training can make a critical difference.

Registering an AED is simple: residents and organizations can use the web links or QR codes provided by Reno County EMS to complete the process. Once registered, EMS staff will follow up to verify the information and offer details about upcoming CPR and first aid courses.

For more information or to register your AED, visit renocountyks.gov.

Reno County EMS ensuring AEDs are registered, ready, and saving lives

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

By MICHELLE CHAPMAN AP Business Writer

Ford is recalling more than 290,000 vehicles in the U.S. because the rearview camera system may not display images properly in certain lighting conditions, which could increase the risk of a crash.

The recall includes certain 2020-2022 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F-450 SD vehicles.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's safety recall report said that Ford reviewed customer complaint data and warranty information to understand customer occurrences. The automaker said that as of Sept. 20, it was aware of 10 reports, with the first report occurring on Jan. 20, 2022.

Ford is not aware of any reports of accident or injury related to this condition.

The automaker's dealers will update the image processing module software of the impacted vehicles for free.

Interim letters are expected to be sent to vehicle owners on Oct. 20. Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, which is anticipated for March 2026. Vehicle owners may call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Individuals may also contact the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

Ford recalls 290,000 trucks due to issue with rearview camera system

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.

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

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.

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

COWLEY COUNTY—Police and fire officials are investigating the cause of house fire in Arkansas City.

Just after 10:30 a.m. Thursday, the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department responded to a fire in a home in the 300 block of North 8th Street, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, crews found a working fire in the northwest corner of the home, with flames extending into the attic. Firefighters made a quick entry and had water on the fire within about one minute.

According to Fire Marshal Gary Bowker, the fire was contained within five minutes. Crews remained on scene through much of the afternoon to check for and extinguish hot spots in the attic area. 

A primary search confirmed that no one was inside the home at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. 

Neighbors indicated the house had been vacant for approximately two to three weeks. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The structure sustained heavy damage, estimated at more than 50 percent loss.

The Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department is working closely with the Arkansas City Police Department as the investigation continues.

🎥Police investigating fire at Kansas home

KANSAS CITY—Police investigating a fatality accident that occurred just before 7:30a.m. Tuesday in Kansas City, Missouri have released the name of the girl who died as 9-year-old Hazen Workman-Duffy, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-hazen-workmanduffy">Click here to visit </a>the online fundraiser for the family.

KCPD investigators determined a white Ford Transit van was northbound on Food Lane Drive and was turning westbound onto Longview Road at the intersection, according KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina. At the same time, the girl was riding her bicycle within the marked crosswalk and had a green signal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 The van struck the bicycle causing her to fall to the roadway.. EMS transported the girl to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased by medical staff.&nbsp;

Police ID girl killed after van struck her bicycle in KC crosswalk

By JOEY CAPPELLETTI and LINLEY SANDERS&nbsp;

WASHINGTON (AP) — As&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">the government shutdown</a>&nbsp;drags on with no end in sight, a new AP-NORC poll finds that most Americans see it as a significant problem — and all of the major players are being blamed.

Roughly 6 in 10 Americans say President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress have “a great deal” or “quite a bit” of responsibility for the shutdown, while 54% say the same about Democrats in Congress, according to the poll from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnorc.org/" target="_blank">The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research</a>. At least three-quarters of Americans believe each deserves at least a “moderate” share of blame, underscoring that no one is successfully evading responsibility.

The survey, conducted as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-democrats-congress-02382f77ea1ba72896148555a75dc075">the shutdown</a>&nbsp;stretched into its third week, comes as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-obamacare-republicans-democrats-b6b59cae2ec28b39e57fbb703704f46a">leaders warn</a>&nbsp;it could soon become the longest in history. Democrats are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">demanding an extension</a>&nbsp;of tax credits that have helped millions of people afford health insurance since the coronavirus pandemic, while Republicans have refused to negotiate until Congress passes a funding bill to reopen the government.

The standoff has become a messaging battle, with each party betting the public will blame the other. The stakes are especially high for Democrats, now out of power and searching for a unifying fight to rally around ahead of pivotal 2026 midterm elections.

Slightly more of the public’s frustration appears to be aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republicans-house-elections-e3754a684a7b96b129841d4b207c15e9">the party in power</a>. The poll finds that about half of Americans say Trump has “a great deal” of responsibility for the shutdown, the very highest amount of responsibility offered in the poll. That’s roughly the same share who fault Republicans in Congress, but higher than the 40% who say the same of Democrats.

Government shutdownThe AP has journalists around the country covering the shutdown of the federal government.&nbsp;<a href="https://modules.wearehearken.com/associated-press/embed/12545/share" target="_blank">What questions do you have for them?</a>

Sophia Cole, a 38-year-old Republican mother from St. Louis, placed equal blame for the shutdown on Trump and Congress. Cole, who described herself as a Trump supporter, said both sides “should be able to come together” on a compromise but believes it is ultimately the Republican president’s responsibility to broker a deal.

“We’re dependent on him to get the House and everyone to vote the way that he needs them to vote,” Cole said.

Democrats and independents more likely to call the shutdown a ‘major issue’

The effects of the shutdown are beginning to be felt across the country. Flights have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-government-shutdown-travel-aviation-flight-delays-211022120bf96ab95dc6861ca5a7e32d">been delayed</a>, and hundreds of thousands of federal employees who are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-federal-workers-shutdown-layoffs-5bef57b6c431830a9af84fbfcc59b324">furloughed or working without pay</a>&nbsp;are starting to miss paychecks.

The poll finds that 54% of U.S. adults call the shutdown a “major issue,” with just 11% saying it is “not a problem at all.” Democrats are most likely, at 69%, to see it as a major problem, but 59% of independents and 37% of Republicans feel the same way.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said this week the country is “barreling toward&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-obamacare-republicans-democrats-b6b59cae2ec28b39e57fbb703704f46a">one of the longest shutdowns</a>&nbsp;in American history.” The last shutdown, during Trump’s first term, went to for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdowns-history-schumer-trump-f442ba1392fab3e7cab37756302e829c">a record 35 days</a>&nbsp;and drew similar public sentiment, with Democrats more likely than Republicans to see it as a major problem.

The White House has warned the impact of the shutdown&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-government-shutdown-russ-vought-project-2025-bf3ecd1f7cd765c9e125d7d7179c8b39">could be worse</a>&nbsp;this time. While roughly 2 million service members were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-military-pay-troops-government-shutdown-8601ea092fe746cc35b88076e70c4598">paid on time</a>&nbsp;this week, the administration has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-government-shutdown-firings-layoffs-vought-1fd57313272ec4db5984f653b095be33">used the federal workforce as leverage</a>, and last weekend it began following through on threats to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-federal-worker-firings-0439e8d0979d9a32e021c5c851fea1cf">lay off federal workers</a>. But on Wednesday, a federal judge in California&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-layoffs-trump-unions-b312b3ca77cbdbc72e778ece3b2cbffc">temporarily blocked the firings</a>, saying they appeared to be politically motivated and were being carried out without much thought.

“Things are just going to keep getting worse for federal workers,” said Angie Santiago, a 60-year-old Democrat from Miami. “If people like me are struggling, I can’t imagine what federal workers are going through.”

Santiago, who is on disability while her husband works, said she fears the shutdown will worsen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-federal-workers-shutdown-layoffs-5bef57b6c431830a9af84fbfcc59b324">economic hardship</a>&nbsp;across the country. Santiago said during a phone interview that she began regularly going to food banks about a year ago.

“I’m calling you from a food line,” she said. “You’re going to see more of these lines popping up. It’s going to get bad.”

More favor than oppose extending health care subsidies

At the center of the shutdown is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-health-care-subsidies-obamacare-congress-10b2ae9648bc5252fc2bd485ddc83493">a stalemate over federal tax credits</a>&nbsp;for people who buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. Democrats want the credits extended, while Republicans say they will discuss the issue only once the government reopens.

The poll shows that roughly 4 in 10 U.S. adults support extending the tax credits, while about 1 in 10 oppose it outright. A large share, 42%, have no opinion, suggesting many Americans are not closely following the core dispute driving the shutdown.

Jason Beck, a Republican who is a self-employed insurance agent in Utah, uses the Affordable Care Act marketplace for his own insurance and supports extending the tax credits.

“I know a lot of the shutdown is over health insurance, and I’d rather just keep it the same way it is now,” Beck said of the subsidies.

Democrats say that keeping health insurance prices the same is central to their fight and that prices will skyrocket if Congress doesn’t do anything. But even Beck, who is on the Democrats’ side with the subsidies, still places equal blame for the shutdown on Democrats, Republicans and Trump.

“Trump’s blaming the Democrats, and the Democrats are blaming the Republicans,” Beck said. “We’re stuck because there’s no middle ground anymore.”

Neither party sees a substantial bump in favorability

Both parties have framed the shutdown as a prelude to the 2026 midterms, with Democrats aiming to flip the House. So far, however, it doesn’t appear to have meaningfully shifted opinions about either party.

About 3 in 10 U.S. adults have a “somewhat” or “very” favorable view of the Democratic Party, in line with an AP-NORC poll from September. Four in 10 have a “somewhat” or “very” favorable view of the Republican Party, similar to last month.

Confidence in Congress, meanwhile, remains extremely low. Only about 4% of Americans say they have “a great deal” of confidence in the way Congress is being run, while 43% have “only some” confidence and about half have “hardly any” confidence.

But the poll suggests that health care could be a helpful issue for Democrats down the road. The poll found that 38% of Americans trust Democrats to do a better job handling health care, while only 25% trust Republicans more. About 1 in 10 trust both equally, and 25% trust neither.

Rob Redding, a 49-year-old independent voter from New York, supports extending ACA subsidies and credits Democrats for defending them.

Redding said Democrats holding the line on the ACA subsidies is probably one of the most valiant and gutsy things he’s ever seen them do.

“And,” Redding said, “I think that it’s the right call.”

What a new poll shows about Americans’ views on the shutdown

SEDGWICK COUNTY– A suspect is in custody following a fatal shooting on a City of Wichita bus Thursday afternoon.

Just after 3:30 p.m., police responded to a report of a shooting at South Meridian and West Burton. When officers arrived, they found a 54-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body. Sedgwick County EMS pronounced him deceased on scene.

Investigators determined that both the suspect, identified from booking records as 34-year-old Travis L. Finney and the victim were passengers on the bus and knew each other.

There is no ongoing threat to the public.&nbsp; Police did not release the victim's name late Thursday. Finney is being held on requested charges that include murder in the first degree, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, robbery, probation violation, domestic battery and aggravated domestic battery.

This case remains under active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 316-268-4407. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Kan. man shot and killed riding city bus, suspect in custody

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman who admitted her role in the death of a 7-year-old boy learned her fate Thursday afternoon.

Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced&nbsp;Tasha Diane Dillard, 25, Wichita to 37-months in prison, according to the Sedgwick County District attorney's office. The judge granted a defense motion for a downward sentence departure. She was sentenced below the minimum recommended sentence guideline, according to the district attorney's office.

In early September she pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and aggravated child endangerment, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; She had been scheduled to face a trial starting on September 15.

Dillard had originally been charged with 1st degree murder and 7 counts of aggravated endangering a child, according to the District Attorney's office.

On March 16, police responded to a call of a shooting at an apartment in the 3700 block of E Ross Parkway, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The caller reported that someone had been shot and that a child was bleeding.

When officers arrived, they found 7-year-old Davion Gunter suffering from a gunshot wound to his torso. Davion was transported to a local hospital, where he was&nbsp; pronounced deceased.

At the scene, officers found seven other children and multiple adults. Wichita Police homicide investigators and the Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit responded immediately, conducting interviews and gathered evidence.

As a result, police took Dillard into custody, and the children were placed in protective care.&nbsp;

Astonishing sentence for Kansas woman in death of 7-year-old boy

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.

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

With more than 2,200 miles covered and three victories under its belt since its last home game on September 13, the Hutchinson Community College Blue Dragon football team finally returns to Gowans Stadium Saturday afternoon.

The No. 1-ranked Blue Dragons (5-0, 1-0 KJCCC) continues Jayhawk Conference play against the Independence Pirates (3-3, 1-2 KJCCC) at 1 p.m. on Saturday at Gowans Stadium.

The game will be broadcast live on Blue Dragon flagship station KHUT-FM (102.9) and on sister stations KWBW-AM/FM (1450/98.5) beginning at 12:30 p.m. with Sean Boston (PBP) and Rob Dreher (color) calling the action. The game will be streamed live only on the Blue Dragon Sports Network.

Now riding a nine-game winning streak dating back to last season, the Blue Dragons return home after a Jayhawk Conference-opening 44-3 victory last Saturday at Dodge City.

The Blue Dragon defense continued to excel, not allowing a touchdown for a second-straight game and a streak of nine overall quarters dating back to the fourth quarter of the Iowa Central game on September 20.

Hutchinson's defense will get a big challenge today as Independence comes into the game as the Jayhawk Conference's No. 1-ranked and NJCAA No. 4-ranked passing offense. Averaging slightly more than 38 pass attempts per game, the Pirates are averaging 284.0 passing yards per game. Pirate freshman quarterback Keegan Anderson completes 61.5 percent of his passes and has thrown for 12 touchdowns and two interceptions.

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