NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 was for investors.

U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&amp;P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates.

The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-china-24b017b95f02f3b06616a7cb30ef5a10">stock prices kept growing</a>. But it wasn't just Apple, Nvidia and the like.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-917924019a21055d353d686ad7a0f5b3">Bitcoin</a>, gold and other investments also drove higher.

Here's a look at some of the numbers that defined the year. All are as of Dec. 20.

Remember when President Bill Clinton got impeached or when baseball's Mark McGwire hit his 70th home run against the Montreal Expos? That was the last time the U.S. stock market closed out a second straight year with a leap of at least 20%, something the S&amp;P 500 is on track to do again this year. The index has climbed 24.3% so far this year, not including dividends, following last year's spurt of 24.2%.

The number of all-time highs the S&amp;P 500 has set so far this year. The first came early, on Jan. 19, when the index capped a two-year comeback from the swoon caused by high inflation and worries that high interest rates instituted by the Federal Reserve to combat it would create a recession. But the index was methodical through the rest of the year, setting a record in every month outside of April and August, according to S&amp;P Dow Jones Indices. The latest came on Dec. 6.

The number of times the Federal Reserve has cut its main interest rate this year from a two-decade high, offering some relief to the economy. Expectations for those cuts, along with hopes for more in 2025, were a big reason the U.S. stock market has been so successful this year. The 1 percentage point of cuts, though, is still short of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-wall-street-rate-cuts-b100590f67b81c0d298493a66607537a">1.5 percentage points that many traders were forecasting</a>&nbsp;for 2024 at the start of the year. The Fed disappointed investors in December when it said it may cut rates just two more times in 2025, fewer than it had earlier expected.

That’s how many points the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by the day after Election Day, as investors made bets on what Donald&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-presidential-election-takeaways-d0e4677f4cd53b4d2d8d18d674be5bf4">Trump’s return to the White House</a>&nbsp;will mean for the economy and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-election-trump-global-reaction-7f7d4c5f6b84f263d7c49bb4978ab418">world</a>. The more widely followed S&amp;P 500 soared 2.5% for its best day in nearly two years. Aside from bitcoin, stocks of banks and smaller winners were also perceived to be big winners. The bump has since diminished amid worries that Trump’s policies could also send inflation higher.

The level that bitcoin topped to set a record above $108,000 this past month. It's been climbing as interest rates come down, and it got a particularly big boost following Trump's election. He's turned around and become a fan of crypto, and he's named a former regulator who’s seen as friendly to digital currencies as the next chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, replacing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sec-gensler-trump-bitcoin-12ed7655830172800a4741a6cb39f372">someone who critics said</a>&nbsp;was overly aggressive in his oversight. Bitcoin was below $17,000 just two years ago following the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ftx-bankruptcy-binance-timeline-c519d50b9059aa8bff0ce8b6cd26c40e">collapse of crypto exchange FTX.</a>

Gold's rise for the year, as it also hit records and had as strong a run as U.S. stocks. Wars around the world have helped drive demand for investments seen as safe, such as gold. It's also benefited from the Fed's cut to interest rates. When bonds are paying less in interest, they pull away fewer potential buyers from gold, which pays investors nothing.

It's a favorite number of Elon Musk, and it's also a threshold that Tesla's stock price passed in December as it set a record. The number has a long history among marijuana devotees, and Musk famously said in 2018 that he had secured funding to take Tesla private at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-technology-san-francisco-lawsuits-business-dc203e6eefa40cb29db82d31308b372a">$420 per share</a>. Tesla soared this year, up from less than $250 at the start, in part because of expectations that Musk's close relationship with Trump could benefit the company.

That's how much revenue Nvidia made in the nine months through Oct. 27, showing how the artificial-intelligence frenzy is creating mountains of cash. Nvidia's chips are driving much of the move into AI, and its revenue through the last nine months catapulted from less than $39 billion the year before. Such growth has boosted Nvidia's worth to more than $3 trillion in total.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/meme-roaring-kitty-gamestop-amc-stocks-401916acd3715d35cc0220143b26b2ac">GameStop’s gain on May 13</a>&nbsp;after Keith Gill, better known as “Roaring Kitty,” appeared online for the first time in three years to support the video game retailer’s stock, which he helped rocket to unimaginable heights during the “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/meme-stocks-wall-street-gamestop-amc-f56af9d8853d77180548028a1a7f3f0f">meme stock craze</a>&nbsp;” in 2021. Several other meme stocks also jumped following his post in May on the social platform X, including AMC Entertainment. Gill later disclosed a sizeable stake in the online pet products retailer Chewy, but he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chewy-pet-store-stock-roaring-kitty-366d6046f1aa076a3eb022521ca51dcd">sold all of his holdings by late October</a>.

That's how much the U.S. economy grew, at annualized seasonally adjusted rates, in each of the three first quarters of this year. Such growth blew past what many pessimists were expecting when inflation was topping 9% in the summer of 2022. The fear was that the medicine prescribed by the Fed to beat high inflation — high interest rates — would create a recession. Households at the lower end of the income spectrum in particular are feeling pain now, as they contend with still-high prices. But the overall economy has remained remarkably resilient.

This is the vacancy rate for U.S. office buildings — an all-time high — through the first three quarters of 2024, according to data from Moody's. The fact the rate held steady for most of the year was something of a win for office building owners, given that it had marched up steadily from 16.8% in the fourth quarter of 2019. Demand for office space weakened as the pandemic led to the popularization of remote work.

NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 was for investors.U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&amp;P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates.The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-china-24b017b95f02f3b06616a7cb30ef5a10">stock prices kept growing</a>. But it wasn't just Apple, Nvidia and the like.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-917924019a21055d353d686ad7a0f5b3">Bitcoin</a>, gold and other investments also drove higher.Here's a look at some of the numbers that defined the year. All are as of Dec. 20.<h2>1998</h2>Remember when President Bill Clinton got impeached or when baseball's Mark McGwire hit his 70th home run against the Montreal Expos? That was the last time the U.S. stock market closed out a second straight year with a leap of at least 20%, something the S&amp;P 500 is on track to do again this year. The index has climbed 24.3% so far this year, not including dividends, following last year's spurt of 24.2%.<h2>57</h2>The number of all-time highs the S&amp;P 500 has set so far this year. The first came early, on Jan. 19, when the index capped a two-year comeback from the swoon caused by high inflation and worries that high interest rates instituted by the Federal Reserve to combat it would create a recession. But the index was methodical through the rest of the year, setting a record in every month outside of April and August, according to S&amp;P Dow Jones Indices. The latest came on Dec. 6.<h2>3</h2>The number of times the Federal Reserve has cut its main interest rate this year from a two-decade high, offering some relief to the economy. Expectations for those cuts, along with hopes for more in 2025, were a big reason the U.S. stock market has been so successful this year. The 1 percentage point of cuts, though, is still short of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-wall-street-rate-cuts-b100590f67b81c0d298493a66607537a">1.5 percentage points that many traders were forecasting</a>&nbsp;for 2024 at the start of the year. The Fed disappointed investors in December when it said it may cut rates just two more times in 2025, fewer than it had earlier expected.<h2>1,508</h2>That’s how many points the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose by the day after Election Day, as investors made bets on what Donald&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-presidential-election-takeaways-d0e4677f4cd53b4d2d8d18d674be5bf4">Trump’s return to the White House</a>&nbsp;will mean for the economy and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-election-trump-global-reaction-7f7d4c5f6b84f263d7c49bb4978ab418">world</a>. The more widely followed S&amp;P 500 soared 2.5% for its best day in nearly two years. Aside from bitcoin, stocks of banks and smaller winners were also perceived to be big winners. The bump has since diminished amid worries that Trump’s policies could also send inflation higher.<h2>$100,000</h2>The level that bitcoin topped to set a record above $108,000 this past month. It's been climbing as interest rates come down, and it got a particularly big boost following Trump's election. He's turned around and become a fan of crypto, and he's named a former regulator who’s seen as friendly to digital currencies as the next chair of the Securities and Exchange Commission, replacing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sec-gensler-trump-bitcoin-12ed7655830172800a4741a6cb39f372">someone who critics said</a>&nbsp;was overly aggressive in his oversight. Bitcoin was below $17,000 just two years ago following the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ftx-bankruptcy-binance-timeline-c519d50b9059aa8bff0ce8b6cd26c40e">collapse of crypto exchange FTX.</a><h2>26.7%</h2>Gold's rise for the year, as it also hit records and had as strong a run as U.S. stocks. Wars around the world have helped drive demand for investments seen as safe, such as gold. It's also benefited from the Fed's cut to interest rates. When bonds are paying less in interest, they pull away fewer potential buyers from gold, which pays investors nothing.<h2>$420</h2>It's a favorite number of Elon Musk, and it's also a threshold that Tesla's stock price passed in December as it set a record. The number has a long history among marijuana devotees, and Musk famously said in 2018 that he had secured funding to take Tesla private at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-technology-san-francisco-lawsuits-business-dc203e6eefa40cb29db82d31308b372a">$420 per share</a>. Tesla soared this year, up from less than $250 at the start, in part because of expectations that Musk's close relationship with Trump could benefit the company.<h2>$91.2 billion</h2>That's how much revenue Nvidia made in the nine months through Oct. 27, showing how the artificial-intelligence frenzy is creating mountains of cash. Nvidia's chips are driving much of the move into AI, and its revenue through the last nine months catapulted from less than $39 billion the year before. Such growth has boosted Nvidia's worth to more than $3 trillion in total.<h2>74%</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/meme-roaring-kitty-gamestop-amc-stocks-401916acd3715d35cc0220143b26b2ac">GameStop’s gain on May 13</a>&nbsp;after Keith Gill, better known as “Roaring Kitty,” appeared online for the first time in three years to support the video game retailer’s stock, which he helped rocket to unimaginable heights during the “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/meme-stocks-wall-street-gamestop-amc-f56af9d8853d77180548028a1a7f3f0f">meme stock craze</a>&nbsp;” in 2021. Several other meme stocks also jumped following his post in May on the social platform X, including AMC Entertainment. Gill later disclosed a sizeable stake in the online pet products retailer Chewy, but he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chewy-pet-store-stock-roaring-kitty-366d6046f1aa076a3eb022521ca51dcd">sold all of his holdings by late October</a>.<h2>1.6%, 3.0% and 3.1%</h2>That's how much the U.S. economy grew, at annualized seasonally adjusted rates, in each of the three first quarters of this year. Such growth blew past what many pessimists were expecting when inflation was topping 9% in the summer of 2022. The fear was that the medicine prescribed by the Fed to beat high inflation — high interest rates — would create a recession. Households at the lower end of the income spectrum in particular are feeling pain now, as they contend with still-high prices. But the overall economy has remained remarkably resilient.<h2>20.1%</h2>This is the vacancy rate for U.S. office buildings — an all-time high — through the first three quarters of 2024, according to data from Moody's. The fact the rate held steady for most of the year was something of a win for office building owners, given that it had marched up steadily from 16.8% in the fourth quarter of 2019. Demand for office space weakened as the pandemic led to the popularization of remote work.<h2>3.73 million</h2>

How the stock market defied expectations in 2024, by the numbers

Law enforcement across Kansas continue to see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit, despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding.

Earlier this week, KHP Trooper Jacoby Williams stopped a car going 101 mph in a 65 mph zone, according to a social media report from the KHP. The driver was fined nearly $400.

The Patrol asked “What more can be done to stop motorists from driving at these speeds?"

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735644032496.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Law enforcement across Kansas continue to see more drivers traveling well above the posted speed limit, despite a statewide campaign to crack down on excessive speeding.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735643969801.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Earlier this week, KHP Trooper Jacoby Williams stopped a car going 101 mph in a 65 mph zone, according to a social media report from the KHP. The driver was fined nearly $400.The Patrol asked “What more can be done to stop motorists from driving at these speeds?"

KHP: Massive fine for driving 101 mph in a 65mph zone

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a bank robbery in Junction City and continue to search for a suspect.

Just after 4:30p.m. Friday, a man entered the Sunflower Bank, 510 North Jefferson Street in Junction City, according to a media release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The suspect showed a firearm and demanded cash and ran from the bank with an undisclosed amount of money.&nbsp; There were no injuries reported.

The Junction City Police Department urges anyone with information about this individual to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912, Crime Stoppers at (785) 762-8477, the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735350171595.jpeg" alt="photo JC Police" />
 <figcaption>photo JC Police</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a bank robbery in Junction City and continue to search for a suspect.Just after 4:30p.m. Friday, a man entered the Sunflower Bank, 510 North Jefferson Street in Junction City, according to a media release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.The suspect showed a firearm and demanded cash and ran from the bank with an undisclosed amount of money.&nbsp; There were no injuries reported.The Junction City Police Department urges anyone with information about this individual to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912, Crime Stoppers at (785) 762-8477, the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Search continues for Kansas bank robbery suspect

U.S. forces conducted multiple precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets in Sana’a and coastal locations within Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen on Monday and again on New Year's Eve, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

&nbsp;U.S. Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon (ACW) production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV). These facilities were used in Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. In addition, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force aircraft destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site and seven cruise missiles and one-way attack UAVs over the Red Sea.

There were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment in either incident.

The strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region.

U.S. forces conducted multiple precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets in Sana’a and coastal locations within Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen on Monday and again on New Year's Eve, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">CENTCOM Forces Strike Multiple Houthi Targets in Yemen U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted multiple precision strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets in Sana’a and coastal locations within Houthi-controlled territory in Yemen, Dec. 30 and 31. On Dec. 30 and 31,… <a href="https://t.co/XUKtsZM1U7">pic.twitter.com/XUKtsZM1U7</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1874089194030567561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;U.S. Navy ships and aircraft targeted a Houthi command and control facility and advanced conventional weapon (ACW) production and storage facilities that included missiles and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV). These facilities were used in Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. In addition, U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force aircraft destroyed a Houthi coastal radar site and seven cruise missiles and one-way attack UAVs over the Red Sea.There were no injuries or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment in either incident.The strikes are a part of CENTCOM's effort to degrade Iran-backed Houthi efforts to threaten regional partners and military and merchant vessels in the region.

🎥U.S. Forces strike multiple terrorist targets in Yemen

CLAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident during a police chase just after 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Clay County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Jeep Liberty driven by&nbsp;Joshua McCulloch, 17, Junction City,&nbsp;was northbound on Granite Road just south of 4th Road in Clay Count, fleeing law enforcement.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. The Jeep traveled off the right of the roadway and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle veered to the left and crossed the roadway and traveled into a field on the west side of the road. The Jeep then turned sideways, facing east, and began to roll and the driver was ejected.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported McCullough and a passenger&nbsp;Qwa'Driques Dotson, 21, Salina, to Salina Regional Health Center. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Authorities have not reported what prompted the chase.

CLAY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident during a police chase just after 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Clay County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Jeep Liberty driven by&nbsp;Joshua McCulloch, 17, Junction City,&nbsp;was northbound on Granite Road just south of 4th Road in Clay Count, fleeing law enforcement.The driver lost control of the vehicle. The Jeep traveled off the right of the roadway and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle veered to the left and crossed the roadway and traveled into a field on the west side of the road. The Jeep then turned sideways, facing east, and began to roll and the driver was ejected.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported McCullough and a passenger&nbsp;Qwa'Driques Dotson, 21, Salina, to Salina Regional Health Center. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Authorities have not reported what prompted the chase.

Kansas teen hospitalized after crash during police chase

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a registered Kansas offender on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after&nbsp;9:30 p.m. Dec. 27, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a Chevrolet Impala passenger car for a traffic infraction on 150th road near U.S. Highway 75 in rural Jackson County, according to the Sheriff Time Morse.

The driver of the vehicle, Feliciano Jose Anguiano, 41, of Mayetta was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail with 4 counts of aggravated violation of the registered offender act.

Anguiano has been a registered offender in Kansas since 2018 after a conviction in 2012 for&nbsp;Aggravated battery; Intentional, great bodily harm, according to the KBI Offender Registry.&nbsp; He also has previous conviction for Aggravated battery; Intentional, great bodily harm in 2008 and for Obstruction in 2004, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735590631275.png" alt="Anguiano photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Anguiano photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a registered Kansas offender on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after&nbsp;9:30 p.m. Dec. 27, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a Chevrolet Impala passenger car for a traffic infraction on 150th road near U.S. Highway 75 in rural Jackson County, according to the Sheriff Time Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735592298663.png" alt="Anguiano-photo Ofender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Anguiano-photo Ofender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver of the vehicle, Feliciano Jose Anguiano, 41, of Mayetta was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail with 4 counts of aggravated violation of the registered offender act.Anguiano has been a registered offender in Kansas since 2018 after a conviction in 2012 for&nbsp;Aggravated battery; Intentional, great bodily harm, according to the KBI Offender Registry.&nbsp; He also has previous conviction for Aggravated battery; Intentional, great bodily harm in 2008 and for Obstruction in 2004, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Wanted registered offender captured after Kan. traffic stop

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —With the New Year's Holiday extended weekend here, the Kansas Highway Patrol is reminding drivers not to put others on the road at risk.

On December 27, a State&nbsp;Trooper stopped a motorist who was driving the wrong direction on the four lane U.S.75 highway through Montgomery County, according to a social media report.

The Trooper found that the motorist had just left a bar, had a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.132, and had an open container of vodka on the floor board. Fortunately this motorist was stopped and removed from the road before a crash occurred.

"Driving impaired doesn't just put you at risk, it puts the lives of everyone else on the road at risk as well. This New Years Eve choose to be a responsible driver and plan ahead to have a sober ride, designate a sober driver, or use a ride-share service.Help us keep you and everyone else on the road safe."

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —With the New Year's Holiday extended weekend here, the Kansas Highway Patrol is reminding drivers not to put others on the road at risk.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On 12/27/2024 a KHP Trooper stopped a motorist who was driving the wrong direction on the four lane US-75 highway through Montgomery County. The Trooper found that the motorist had just left a bar, had a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.132, and had an open container of vodka in… <a href="https://t.co/Y4q2smT00b">pic.twitter.com/Y4q2smT00b</a>&mdash; KS Highway Patrol (@kshighwaypatrol) <a href="https://twitter.com/kshighwaypatrol/status/1874138454231220661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On December 27, a State&nbsp;Trooper stopped a motorist who was driving the wrong direction on the four lane U.S.75 highway through Montgomery County, according to a social media report.The Trooper found that the motorist had just left a bar, had a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.132, and had an open container of vodka on the floor board. Fortunately this motorist was stopped and removed from the road before a crash occurred."Driving impaired doesn't just put you at risk, it puts the lives of everyone else on the road at risk as well. This New Years Eve choose to be a responsible driver and plan ahead to have a sober ride, designate a sober driver, or use a ride-share service.Help us keep you and everyone else on the road safe."

🎥KHP stops impaired driver traveling wrong-way after leaving a bar

The year in review: Influential people who died in 2024

Starting Wednesday, enforcement will begin on a hands-free law that was enacted in August 2023

Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says while the law isn't primary and you can't be pulled over just for violating it, if you are caught in violation, it's a steep price to pay

"The first conviction $150 fine, second conviction up to $250 fine, and the third and subsequent up to $500 fine, so the law does come with a pretty stiff penalty," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.

Hux says drivers could also face criminal charges if they get into an accident and it's discovered you were using a cell phone when the accident occurred.

To this point, Missouri State Highway Patrol officials have used traffic stops to educate drivers on the new law.

Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the law does not only apply to texting and driving, but any act that requires the phone to be in your hand while driving.

"An exception to that is if someone is driving down the roadway and they witness a motor vehicle crash, at that time they can still call 911 or *55 to report that crash," Hux explains.

Hux says the phone can also be used for GPS but needs to be either in the hands of a passenger or hooked into a holder on your dashboard, not in the driver's hand.

Hux says over 100 people are killed each year due to distracted driving, and the hope is the new law decreases that number

"We just ask people to be vigilant and obey the law, put the phone down it's just not worth it," Hux says.

A report from Cambridge Mobile Telematics says the law has seemingly already reduced distracted driving by 5.1% in its first year without citations, preventing over 1,000 crashes, 600 injuries, and 5 fatalities,

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735575463202.png" alt="Photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph PostStarting Wednesday, enforcement will begin on a hands-free law that was enacted in August 2023Seargent Shane Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says while the law isn't primary and you can't be pulled over just for violating it, if you are caught in violation, it's a steep price to pay"The first conviction $150 fine, second conviction up to $250 fine, and the third and subsequent up to $500 fine, so the law does come with a pretty stiff penalty," Hux tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.Hux says drivers could also face criminal charges if they get into an accident and it's discovered you were using a cell phone when the accident occurred.To this point, Missouri State Highway Patrol officials have used traffic stops to educate drivers on the new law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735663070371.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hux with Troop H in St. Joseph says the law does not only apply to texting and driving, but any act that requires the phone to be in your hand while driving."An exception to that is if someone is driving down the roadway and they witness a motor vehicle crash, at that time they can still call 911 or *55 to report that crash," Hux explains.Hux says the phone can also be used for GPS but needs to be either in the hands of a passenger or hooked into a holder on your dashboard, not in the driver's hand.Hux says over 100 people are killed each year due to distracted driving, and the hope is the new law decreases that number"We just ask people to be vigilant and obey the law, put the phone down it's just not worth it," Hux says.A report from Cambridge Mobile Telematics says the law has seemingly already reduced distracted driving by 5.1% in its first year without citations, preventing over 1,000 crashes, 600 injuries, and 5 fatalities,

Hands free law will be enforced starting Wednesday in Missouri

WASHINGTON (AP) — Chinese hackers remotely accessed several U.S. Treasury Department workstations and unclassified documents after compromising a third-party software service provider, the agency said Monday.

The department did not provide details on how many workstations had been accessed or what sort of documents the hackers may have obtained, but it said in a letter to lawmakers revealing the breach that “at this time there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury information.” The hack was being investigated as a “major cybersecurity incident,” it added.

“Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds,” a department spokesperson said in a separate statement. “Over the last four years, Treasury has significantly bolstered its cyber defense, and we will continue to work with both private and public sector partners to protect our financial system from threat actors.”

In Beijing, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson gave China’s standard response to hacking allegations.

“We have repeatedly stated our position on such groundless accusations that lack evidence,” Mao Ning said at a daily briefing. “China consistently opposes all forms of hacking, and we are even more opposed to the dissemination of false information against China for political purposes.”

The incident comes as U.S. officials are continuing to grapple with the fallout of a massive Chinese cyberespionage campaign known as Salt Typhoon that gave officials in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/china">Beijing</a>&nbsp;access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-china-hacking-espionage-c5351ef7c2207785b76c8c62cde6c513">A senior White House official said Friday</a>&nbsp;that the number of telecommunications companies confirmed to have been affected by the hack has now risen to nine.

The Treasury Department said it learned of the latest problem on Dec. 8, when a third-party software service provider, BeyondTrust, flagged that hackers had stolen a key “used by the vendor to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support” to workers. That key helped the hackers override the service’s security and gain remote access to several employee workstations.

The compromised service has since been taken offline, and there’s no evidence that the hackers still have access to department information, Aditi Hardikar, an assistant Treasury secretary, said in the letter Monday to leaders of the Senate Banking Committee.

The department said it was working with the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and others to investigate the impact of the hack, and that the hack had been attributed to Chinese state-sponsored culprits. It did not elaborate.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Chinese hackers remotely accessed several U.S. Treasury Department workstations and unclassified documents after compromising a third-party software service provider, the agency said Monday.The department did not provide details on how many workstations had been accessed or what sort of documents the hackers may have obtained, but it said in a letter to lawmakers revealing the breach that “at this time there is no evidence indicating the threat actor has continued access to Treasury information.” The hack was being investigated as a “major cybersecurity incident,” it added.“Treasury takes very seriously all threats against our systems, and the data it holds,” a department spokesperson said in a separate statement. “Over the last four years, Treasury has significantly bolstered its cyber defense, and we will continue to work with both private and public sector partners to protect our financial system from threat actors.”In Beijing, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson gave China’s standard response to hacking allegations.“We have repeatedly stated our position on such groundless accusations that lack evidence,” Mao Ning said at a daily briefing. “China consistently opposes all forms of hacking, and we are even more opposed to the dissemination of false information against China for political purposes.”The incident comes as U.S. officials are continuing to grapple with the fallout of a massive Chinese cyberespionage campaign known as Salt Typhoon that gave officials in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/china">Beijing</a>&nbsp;access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-china-hacking-espionage-c5351ef7c2207785b76c8c62cde6c513">A senior White House official said Friday</a>&nbsp;that the number of telecommunications companies confirmed to have been affected by the hack has now risen to nine.The Treasury Department said it learned of the latest problem on Dec. 8, when a third-party software service provider, BeyondTrust, flagged that hackers had stolen a key “used by the vendor to secure a cloud-based service used to remotely provide technical support” to workers. That key helped the hackers override the service’s security and gain remote access to several employee workstations.The compromised service has since been taken offline, and there’s no evidence that the hackers still have access to department information, Aditi Hardikar, an assistant Treasury secretary, said in the letter Monday to leaders of the Senate Banking Committee.The department said it was working with the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and others to investigate the impact of the hack, and that the hack had been attributed to Chinese state-sponsored culprits. It did not elaborate.<h2>___</h2>

US Treasury: Chinese hackers stole documents in 'major incident'

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22ANITA%20SNOW%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By ANITA SNOW Associated Press</a>

Cases of a wretched&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norovirus-stomach-flu-northeast-8b44fb42edadf3dc0104a546e88cb6e9">stomach bug</a>&nbsp;are surging in parts of the United States this winter, according to government data.

The most recent numbers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show there were 91 outbreaks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/php/reporting/norostat-data-table.html">norovirus reported</a>&nbsp;during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the last week of November.

Numbers from the past few years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during that first week of December.

A norovirus infection is characterized by sudden vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks are often seen on cruise ships, in congregate living situations like nursing homes and jails, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/detroit-health-dd90189c9178932ac92e9d9c84638c0f">schools</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/us-news/disease-outbreaks-hawaii-general-news-e49e70c0041b26ac3f953dd9533f32d2">places where people are close together</a>.

Here are a few things to know about the virus.

Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, responsible for 58% of such infections acquired in the country each year, according to the CDC.

Norovirus infections are caused by a group of viruses that spread easily, with as few as 10 viral particles having the ability to make someone sick, health experts say.

There are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the United States. The outbreaks can occur throughout the year but are most common from November to April.

Along with with vomiting and diarrhea, common symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, body ache, headache and fever.

Most norovirus outbreaks occur when people who are already infected spread the virus to others by direct means, such as through sharing food or eating utensils. Outbreaks can also be spread through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-mexico-imported-raw-oysters-norovirus-4df2fae17a2784c4dc773d0181155a9d">food</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/havasupai-waterfalls-grand-canyon-illness-hiking-003e6e7e8f7189a947061975885bd517">water</a>&nbsp;or contaminated surfaces .

Illness caused by norovirus typically starts suddenly, with symptoms developing 12 to 48 hours following exposure to the virus. Most people get better within one to three days and recover fully.

But with 19 to 21 million illnesses each year in the United States, norovirus nevertheless causes on average 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations annually, mostly among adults aged 65 and older. It also leads to 465,000 emergency department visits, mostly involving young children.

People of all ages can get infected and fall sick from norovirus. Young children, older people and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk, with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea the top concern.

There is no medication to treat norovirus. Rehydration is recommended by drinking water and other liquids, with the exception of coffee, tea and alcohol.

Anyone suffering from dehydration should seek medical help. Symptoms of dehydration include a decrease in urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing. Dehydrated children may be unusually sleepy or fussy and cry with few or no tears.

Rigorous and frequent handwashing is the best defense against norovirus during the peak winter season, scrubbing the hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before meals.

Scrubbing surfaces with household disinfectants can also help.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735425200728.png" alt="Norovirus CDC image" />
 <figcaption>Norovirus CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22ANITA%20SNOW%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By ANITA SNOW Associated Press</a>Cases of a wretched&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norovirus-stomach-flu-northeast-8b44fb42edadf3dc0104a546e88cb6e9">stomach bug</a>&nbsp;are surging in parts of the United States this winter, according to government data.The most recent numbers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show there were 91 outbreaks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/norovirus/php/reporting/norostat-data-table.html">norovirus reported</a>&nbsp;during the week of Dec. 5, up from 69 outbreaks the last week of November.Numbers from the past few years show a maximum of 65 outbreaks reported during that first week of December.A norovirus infection is characterized by sudden vomiting and diarrhea. Outbreaks are often seen on cruise ships, in congregate living situations like nursing homes and jails, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/detroit-health-dd90189c9178932ac92e9d9c84638c0f">schools</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/us-news/disease-outbreaks-hawaii-general-news-e49e70c0041b26ac3f953dd9533f32d2">places where people are close together</a>.Here are a few things to know about the virus.<h2>What is norovirus?</h2>Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, responsible for 58% of such infections acquired in the country each year, according to the CDC.Norovirus infections are caused by a group of viruses that spread easily, with as few as 10 viral particles having the ability to make someone sick, health experts say.There are about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks reported annually in the United States. The outbreaks can occur throughout the year but are most common from November to April.Along with with vomiting and diarrhea, common symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, body ache, headache and fever.<h2>How do you get it?</h2>Most norovirus outbreaks occur when people who are already infected spread the virus to others by direct means, such as through sharing food or eating utensils. Outbreaks can also be spread through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-mexico-imported-raw-oysters-norovirus-4df2fae17a2784c4dc773d0181155a9d">food</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/havasupai-waterfalls-grand-canyon-illness-hiking-003e6e7e8f7189a947061975885bd517">water</a>&nbsp;or contaminated surfaces .<h2>How long do you stay sick?</h2>Illness caused by norovirus typically starts suddenly, with symptoms developing 12 to 48 hours following exposure to the virus. Most people get better within one to three days and recover fully.But with 19 to 21 million illnesses each year in the United States, norovirus nevertheless causes on average 900 deaths and 109,000 hospitalizations annually, mostly among adults aged 65 and older. It also leads to 465,000 emergency department visits, mostly involving young children.<h2>Who's at risk?</h2>People of all ages can get infected and fall sick from norovirus. Young children, older people and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk, with dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea the top concern.There is no medication to treat norovirus. Rehydration is recommended by drinking water and other liquids, with the exception of coffee, tea and alcohol.Anyone suffering from dehydration should seek medical help. Symptoms of dehydration include a decrease in urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing. Dehydrated children may be unusually sleepy or fussy and cry with few or no tears.<h2>How can I protect myself?</h2>Rigorous and frequent handwashing is the best defense against norovirus during the peak winter season, scrubbing the hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before meals.Scrubbing surfaces with household disinfectants can also help.

CDC: Norovirus stomach bug cases surging nationwide

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement in the Kansas City area are investigating reports of fake cash used at businesses.&nbsp;

On social media, the Lawson Police Department featured $100 bills stamped with&nbsp;“this note is not legal, it is to be used for motion pictures."

"Anyone who looks at the bills closely will see that something doesn’t look quite right."

Any business taking a $100 bill should inspect it closely to make sure it doesn’t have the stamp that identifies it as prop money.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735609429404.png" alt="Photo Lawson Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawson Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement in the Kansas City area are investigating reports of fake cash used at businesses.&nbsp;On social media, the Lawson Police Department featured $100 bills stamped with&nbsp;“this note is not legal, it is to be used for motion pictures.""Anyone who looks at the bills closely will see that something doesn’t look quite right." Any business taking a $100 bill should inspect it closely to make sure it doesn’t have the stamp that identifies it as prop money.&nbsp;

‘Movie money’ used at KC area businesses

KANSAS CITY (AP) —The FBI is warning sports leagues about crime organizations targeting professional athletes following a string of burglaries at the homes of prominent NFL and NBA players.

The athletes' homes are targeted due to the perception they may contain high-end goods like designer handbags, jewelry, watches and cash, the FBI said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/US/fbi-issues-warning-burglaries-pro-athletes-homes/story?id=117197676">Liaison Information Report obtained by ABC News.</a>

The NFL and NBA already have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-security-alert-burglaries-mahomes-kelce-960075221367266fbee98f711a74c094">issued security alerts</a>&nbsp;to their players after the break-ins, some of which have come when players were away with their teams for road games. The NFL’s alert says homes of professional athletes across multiple sports have become “increasingly targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups.”

Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. Lara Beth Seager, the star guard’s business manager, told multiple media outlets Saturday there was a break-in at Doncic’s home. Seager said nobody was home at the time of the incident Friday night, and Doncic filed a police report.

Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati, along with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, have been victims, as have NBA players Bobby Portis of Milwaukee and Mike Conley Jr. of Minnesota.

Organized theft groups from South America use publicly available information and social media to identify athletes' habits and track their comings and goings, the FBI report said. The groups use technology allowing them to bypass alarm systems, block wireless internet connections and disable devices, cover security cameras and hide their identities.

Athletes are encouraged to report suspicious activity, keep records of valuables and where they are kept, employ extra security and use caution on social media. The FBI also suggested athletes avoid posting pictures of valuables, the interior of their homes and real-time posts when on vacation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721167941490.jpeg" alt="File photo AP" />
 <figcaption>File photo AP</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) —The FBI is warning sports leagues about crime organizations targeting professional athletes following a string of burglaries at the homes of prominent NFL and NBA players.The athletes' homes are targeted due to the perception they may contain high-end goods like designer handbags, jewelry, watches and cash, the FBI said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/US/fbi-issues-warning-burglaries-pro-athletes-homes/story?id=117197676">Liaison Information Report obtained by ABC News.</a>The NFL and NBA already have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-security-alert-burglaries-mahomes-kelce-960075221367266fbee98f711a74c094">issued security alerts</a>&nbsp;to their players after the break-ins, some of which have come when players were away with their teams for road games. The NFL’s alert says homes of professional athletes across multiple sports have become “increasingly targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732291591919.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. Lara Beth Seager, the star guard’s business manager, told multiple media outlets Saturday there was a break-in at Doncic’s home. Seager said nobody was home at the time of the incident Friday night, and Doncic filed a police report.Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati, along with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, have been victims, as have NBA players Bobby Portis of Milwaukee and Mike Conley Jr. of Minnesota.Organized theft groups from South America use publicly available information and social media to identify athletes' habits and track their comings and goings, the FBI report said. The groups use technology allowing them to bypass alarm systems, block wireless internet connections and disable devices, cover security cameras and hide their identities.Athletes are encouraged to report suspicious activity, keep records of valuables and where they are kept, employ extra security and use caution on social media. The FBI also suggested athletes avoid posting pictures of valuables, the interior of their homes and real-time posts when on vacation.

FBI warning leagues about organized crime groups targeting pro athletes

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged road-rage incident in Manhattan and have made an arrest.

Just before 4p.m. on December 27, officers filed a report of aggravated battery in the 700 block of Fort Riley Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 46-year-old man, 20-year-old woman and an 18-year-old woman&nbsp; reported a road-rage incident escalated. Officers report the alleged subject, a 60-year-old man, was also listed as a victim as he reported harm was threatened upon him after he pointed a gun in the direction of the three other victims. 

David Beck of Manhattan was arrested for criminal threat and aggravated assault. Total bond was set at $10,000. Beck is not longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged road-rage incident in Manhattan and have made an arrest.Just before 4p.m. on December 27, officers filed a report of aggravated battery in the 700 block of Fort Riley Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 46-year-old man, 20-year-old woman and an 18-year-old woman&nbsp; reported a road-rage incident escalated. Officers report the alleged subject, a 60-year-old man, was also listed as a victim as he reported harm was threatened upon him after he pointed a gun in the direction of the three other victims. David Beck of Manhattan was arrested for criminal threat and aggravated assault. Total bond was set at $10,000. Beck is not longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

Man jailed for alleged road-rage incident in Manhattan

PALM BEACH, FL—President-elect Donald Trump is just a couple of weeks from beginning his second term in office.

He took time to visit with Kansas U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall on Monday in Florida.

According to his social media page, Marshall wrote, "It was great to bring my family to see our 45th and soon-to-be 47th president. My daughter, Lauren, and I are ready for President Trump to head to Washington and Make America Great Again.

Marshall did not reveal what he discussed with the president-elect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735611961132.png" alt="Photo U.S. Senator Roger Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Senator Roger Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>PALM BEACH, FL—President-elect Donald Trump is just a couple of weeks from beginning his second term in office.He took time to visit with Kansas U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall on Monday in Florida.According to his social media page, Marshall wrote, "It was great to bring my family to see our 45th and soon-to-be 47th president. My daughter, Lauren, and I are ready for President Trump to head to Washington and Make America Great Again.Marshall did not reveal what he discussed with the president-elect.

Kansas U.S. Senator meets with President-elect Trump

KANSAS CITY—Two people died in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Monday in Kansas City.

A black Chrysler 300 and a silver Dodge Charger were street racing Southbound on Wornall from 99th Street at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sgt. Phil DiMartino.

At the same time, a silver Honda HRV was making a left turn onto Carondolet from Wornall.

The Chrysler struck the Honda. The driver and passenger of the Honda were both pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Chrysler was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. This is fatality # 96 and #97 compared to #101 from last year, according to DiMartino.&nbsp; Names of those who died and additional details have not been released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735607871090.png" alt="Photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Two people died in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Monday in Kansas City.A black Chrysler 300 and a silver Dodge Charger were street racing Southbound on Wornall from 99th Street at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sgt. Phil DiMartino.At the same time, a silver Honda HRV was making a left turn onto Carondolet from Wornall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735607895651.png" alt="Photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chrysler struck the Honda. The driver and passenger of the Honda were both pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Chrysler was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. This is fatality # 96 and #97 compared to #101 from last year, according to DiMartino.&nbsp; Names of those who died and additional details have not been released.

KCPD: Street racing led to double-fatal crash

TOPEKA—Governor Kelly attended the annual Statehouse Kwanzaa celebration on Monday.

On social media the Governor wrote, "The Kwanzaa celebration is a reminder of the hope and strength we can inspire in our communities by coming together. By lighting the kinara, we're reaffirming Kansas' commitment to the guiding principles and rich history of Kwanzaa."

The weeklong Kwanzaa holiday from Dec. 26 through Jan 1. celebrates African-American family, community and culture. Its origins are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735608499331.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy office of the Kansas governor" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy office of the Kansas governor</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA—Governor Kelly attended the annual Statehouse Kwanzaa celebration on Monday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735608734861.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On social media the Governor wrote, "The Kwanzaa celebration is a reminder of the hope and strength we can inspire in our communities by coming together. By lighting the kinara, we're reaffirming Kansas' commitment to the guiding principles and rich history of Kwanzaa."The weeklong Kwanzaa holiday from Dec. 26 through Jan 1. celebrates African-American family, community and culture. Its origins are in the first harvest celebrations of Africa.

Gov. attends Kwanzaa celebration at the Kansas Statehouse

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Monday that the United States will send nearly $2.5 billion more in weapons to Ukraine as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-weapons-russia-trump-biden-himars-zelenskyy-7b2560ad6bd54a6275da0ceb5241c0e8">his administration works quickly to spend</a>&nbsp;all the money it has available to help Kyiv fight off Russia before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President-elect Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;takes office.

The package includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-military-aid-kyiv-biden-9b926a275c235c59d591a649e2450746">$1.25 billion in presidential drawdown authority</a>, which allows the military to pull existing stock from its shelves and gets weapons to the battlefield faster. It also has $1.22 billion in longer-term weapons packages to be put on contract through the separate Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, or USAI.

According to the Department of Defense, the weapons include:

Munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS); HAWK air defense munitions; Stinger missiles; Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (c-UAS) munitions; Ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS);155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition; Air-to-ground munitions; High-speed Anti-radiation missiles (HARMs); Unmanned Aerials Systems (UAS); Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor systems; Tube-launched, Optically guided, Wire-tracked (TOW) missiles; Small arms and ammunition and grenades; Demolitions equipment and munitions; Secure communications equipment; Commercial satellite imagery services; Medical equipment; Clothing and individual equipment; and Spare parts, maintenance and sustainment support, ancillary equipment, services, training, and transportation.

Biden said all longer-term USAI funds have now been spent and pledged to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ukraine-military-aid-russia-biden-efbcff8ed068e621055e8fa70b5905e1">use all the remaining drawdown money before leaving office</a>.

“I’ve directed my administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible,” Biden said in a statement. “At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office.”

The new aid comes as Russia has launched a barrage of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-missile-energy-infrastructure-christmas-906dafcdbc66bc4976b0428a5cc0d263">attacks against Ukraine’s power facilities</a>&nbsp;in recent days, although Ukraine has said it intercepted a significant number of the missiles and drones. Russian and Ukrainian forces are also still in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-kursk-d297a59fb9eb7db08bd742e1dd0aa753">bitter battle around the Russian border region of Kursk</a>, where Moscow has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-north-korea-fe2506b30c4289a19a41c332f3dbe49c">sent thousands of North Korean troops</a>&nbsp;to help reclaim territory taken by Ukraine.

The Biden administration is pushing to get weapons into Ukraine to give Kyiv the strongest negotiating position possible before Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Trump has talked about getting some type of negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia and has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-donald-trump-campaigns-foreign-policy-4625a28e59996ff16085fdf30910a449">praised Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>.

Many U.S. and European leaders are concerned that Trump's talk of a settlement might result in a poor deal for Ukraine, and they worry that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-russia-ukraine-atacms-f3ca80252ea2812b6ab4f6844f7ecd23">he won’t provide Ukraine</a>&nbsp;with all the weapons funding approved by Congress.

Including Monday's announcement, the U.S. has provided more than $65 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded its neighbor in February 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717851301558.png" alt="File photo White House" />
 <figcaption>File photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Monday that the United States will send nearly $2.5 billion more in weapons to Ukraine as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-weapons-russia-trump-biden-himars-zelenskyy-7b2560ad6bd54a6275da0ceb5241c0e8">his administration works quickly to spend</a>&nbsp;all the money it has available to help Kyiv fight off Russia before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President-elect Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;takes office.The package includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-military-aid-kyiv-biden-9b926a275c235c59d591a649e2450746">$1.25 billion in presidential drawdown authority</a>, which allows the military to pull existing stock from its shelves and gets weapons to the battlefield faster. It also has $1.22 billion in longer-term weapons packages to be put on contract through the separate Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, or USAI.According to the Department of Defense, the weapons include:Munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS); HAWK air defense munitions; Stinger missiles; Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (c-UAS) munitions; Ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS);155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition; Air-to-ground munitions; High-speed Anti-radiation missiles (HARMs); Unmanned Aerials Systems (UAS); Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor systems; Tube-launched, Optically guided, Wire-tracked (TOW) missiles; Small arms and ammunition and grenades; Demolitions equipment and munitions; Secure communications equipment; Commercial satellite imagery services; Medical equipment; Clothing and individual equipment; and Spare parts, maintenance and sustainment support, ancillary equipment, services, training, and transportation.Biden said all longer-term USAI funds have now been spent and pledged to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ukraine-military-aid-russia-biden-efbcff8ed068e621055e8fa70b5905e1">use all the remaining drawdown money before leaving office</a>.“I’ve directed my administration to continue surging as much assistance to Ukraine as quickly as possible,” Biden said in a statement. “At my direction, the United States will continue to work relentlessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in this war over the remainder of my time in office.”The new aid comes as Russia has launched a barrage of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-missile-energy-infrastructure-christmas-906dafcdbc66bc4976b0428a5cc0d263">attacks against Ukraine’s power facilities</a>&nbsp;in recent days, although Ukraine has said it intercepted a significant number of the missiles and drones. Russian and Ukrainian forces are also still in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-kursk-d297a59fb9eb7db08bd742e1dd0aa753">bitter battle around the Russian border region of Kursk</a>, where Moscow has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-north-korea-fe2506b30c4289a19a41c332f3dbe49c">sent thousands of North Korean troops</a>&nbsp;to help reclaim territory taken by Ukraine.The Biden administration is pushing to get weapons into Ukraine to give Kyiv the strongest negotiating position possible before Trump's inauguration on Jan. 20. Trump has talked about getting some type of negotiated settlement between Ukraine and Russia and has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-vladimir-putin-donald-trump-campaigns-foreign-policy-4625a28e59996ff16085fdf30910a449">praised Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>.Many U.S. and European leaders are concerned that Trump's talk of a settlement might result in a poor deal for Ukraine, and they worry that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-russia-ukraine-atacms-f3ca80252ea2812b6ab4f6844f7ecd23">he won’t provide Ukraine</a>&nbsp;with all the weapons funding approved by Congress.Including Monday's announcement, the U.S. has provided more than $65 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded its neighbor in February 2022.

Read list of $2.5 billion in new weapons U.S. sending to Ukraine

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a violent attack that sent a man to the hospital on Christmas Eve.

The attack occurred in the bathroom of The Blind Pig, a bar at 2501 Market Street in Salina, according to Salina Police Capt. David Villanueva.

The 26-year-old victim was slashed across the neck with a box cutter, leaving a three-and-a-half-inch laceration.&nbsp; After the attack, Salina police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Jayson Nung Alexander Adams of Salina.

 Adams was arrested on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp;

Police confirmed that the victim, who sustained significant injuries, was treated and released from Salina Regional Health Center.

As for the motive behind the attack, police have not yet determined why the attack occurred. The victim, when questioned, was unable to explain why Adams would attack him, leaving many unanswered questions that will likely be addressed during court proceedings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735395902324.jpeg" alt="Adams-photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Adams-photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a violent attack that sent a man to the hospital on Christmas Eve.The attack occurred in the bathroom of The Blind Pig, a bar at 2501 Market Street in Salina, according to Salina Police Capt. David Villanueva.The 26-year-old victim was slashed across the neck with a box cutter, leaving a three-and-a-half-inch laceration.&nbsp; After the attack, Salina police identified the suspect as 21-year-old Jayson Nung Alexander Adams of Salina. Adams was arrested on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp;Police confirmed that the victim, who sustained significant injuries, was treated and released from Salina Regional Health Center.As for the motive behind the attack, police have not yet determined why the attack occurred. The victim, when questioned, was unable to explain why Adams would attack him, leaving many unanswered questions that will likely be addressed during court proceedings.

Kan. man accused in Christmas Eve box cutter attack

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a stolen vehicle was located on SE California Avenue in Topeka.

Just before 3p.m., December 27, deputies with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a stolen black 2020 Chevrolet Trax from the 3000 block of SE Starlight Drive, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.

Shortly before 3:45 p.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2400 block of SE California Avenue and one individual was taken into custody. Michael A. Woodworth, 46, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Theft from motor vehicle; $25,000 &lt; $100,000;&nbsp;Possession of stolen property; $25,000 to $100,000 and&nbsp;Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant.

Woodworth has previous convictions for Interference with law enforcement by destroying evidence in a felony case and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735524569546.png" alt="Woodworth -photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Woodworth -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a stolen vehicle was located on SE California Avenue in Topeka.Just before 3p.m., December 27, deputies with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a stolen black 2020 Chevrolet Trax from the 3000 block of SE Starlight Drive, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.Shortly before 3:45 p.m., deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2400 block of SE California Avenue and one individual was taken into custody. Michael A. Woodworth, 46, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Theft from motor vehicle; $25,000 &lt; $100,000;&nbsp;Possession of stolen property; $25,000 to $100,000 and&nbsp;Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant.Woodworth has previous convictions for Interference with law enforcement by destroying evidence in a felony case and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon caught driving a stolen SUV

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Monday endorsed House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-mike-johnson-majority-trump-election-65d7217e4541cd314849c9a0da2b0081">Mike Johnson</a>, providing crucial backing for the Louisiana Republican as he prepares for what is expected to be another contentious speakership race this week.

Trump said in a post on his social media platform that Johnson “is a good, hard working, religious man” and said he “will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN.”

“Mike has my Complete &amp; Total Endorsement," he wrote.

Johnson thanked Trump for the endorsement and added, “The American people demand and deserve that we waste no time. Let’s get to work!”

The signal of support from Trump comes despite his frustration with a spending deal Johnson pushed through the House days before Christmas that failed to achieve his central goal of raising the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/debt-ceiling-shutdown-explainer-22ff94a8f8b188c722ff8fab3f7093d0">debt limit</a>.

But other Republicans have been less forgiving. Far-right criticism over the spending ordeal has left Johnson’s continued leadership of the incoming GOP majority once again in jeopardy. Though a deal was reached, averting a holiday shutdown, Johnson had to rely on Democrats to keep the government running, highlighting the limits of his influence and exposing cracks in his party’s support.

The speaker’s first two funding plans collapsed as Trump, who does not take the oath of office until Jan. 20, interceded with calls to suspend or lift the government debt ceiling.

Johnson, who has worked hard to stay close to Trump over the last several months, convinced the president-elect that he would meet his demands to raise the debt limit in 2025.

Trump had remained quiet about Johnson's fate before a Jan. 3 leadership vote for over a week, even as some Republicans signaled that they may not support Johnson for the role.

Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/indiana-primary-election-victoria-spartz-ukraine-57fb403caa6a9bbe459639baacfdb7fa">Victoria Spartz</a>, one of the Republicans who opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kevin-mccarthy">Kevin McCarthy’s</a>&nbsp;initial bid for the speakership, said in a statement Monday that “our next speaker must show courageous leadership to get our country back on track.”

The Indiana lawmaker went on to make a series of demands for the next leader of the GOP majority, which included major spending reform. Rep. Andy Harris, who is the chair of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, had also indicated that Johnson's future as speaker is not guaranteed before the holidays.

In a Dec. 20 post on X, Harris said that Republicans have not done enough to bring down “spending, deficits and inflation" since Trump's electoral victory in November.

Because of this, Harris wrote, “I am now undecided on what House leadership should look like in the 119th Congress.”

Associated Press writer Farnoush Amiri in Washington contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734277230811.png" alt="File photo House Speaker Mike Johnson and President-elect Trump at the Army Navy football game earlier this month." />
 <figcaption>File photo House Speaker Mike Johnson and President-elect Trump at the Army Navy football game earlier this month.</figcaption>
 </figure>WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Monday endorsed House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-mike-johnson-majority-trump-election-65d7217e4541cd314849c9a0da2b0081">Mike Johnson</a>, providing crucial backing for the Louisiana Republican as he prepares for what is expected to be another contentious speakership race this week.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, President Trump! I’m honored and humbled by your support, as always. Together, we will quickly deliver on your America First agenda and usher in the new golden age of America. The American people demand and deserve that we waste no time. Let’s get to work! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ljGrB08dRh">pic.twitter.com/ljGrB08dRh</a>&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1873758339324362916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump said in a post on his social media platform that Johnson “is a good, hard working, religious man” and said he “will do the right thing, and we will continue to WIN.”“Mike has my Complete &amp; Total Endorsement," he wrote.Johnson thanked Trump for the endorsement and added, “The American people demand and deserve that we waste no time. Let’s get to work!”The signal of support from Trump comes despite his frustration with a spending deal Johnson pushed through the House days before Christmas that failed to achieve his central goal of raising the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/debt-ceiling-shutdown-explainer-22ff94a8f8b188c722ff8fab3f7093d0">debt limit</a>.But other Republicans have been less forgiving. Far-right criticism over the spending ordeal has left Johnson’s continued leadership of the incoming GOP majority once again in jeopardy. Though a deal was reached, averting a holiday shutdown, Johnson had to rely on Democrats to keep the government running, highlighting the limits of his influence and exposing cracks in his party’s support.The speaker’s first two funding plans collapsed as Trump, who does not take the oath of office until Jan. 20, interceded with calls to suspend or lift the government debt ceiling.Johnson, who has worked hard to stay close to Trump over the last several months, convinced the president-elect that he would meet his demands to raise the debt limit in 2025.Trump had remained quiet about Johnson's fate before a Jan. 3 leadership vote for over a week, even as some Republicans signaled that they may not support Johnson for the role.Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/indiana-primary-election-victoria-spartz-ukraine-57fb403caa6a9bbe459639baacfdb7fa">Victoria Spartz</a>, one of the Republicans who opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kevin-mccarthy">Kevin McCarthy’s</a>&nbsp;initial bid for the speakership, said in a statement Monday that “our next speaker must show courageous leadership to get our country back on track.”The Indiana lawmaker went on to make a series of demands for the next leader of the GOP majority, which included major spending reform. Rep. Andy Harris, who is the chair of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, had also indicated that Johnson's future as speaker is not guaranteed before the holidays.In a Dec. 20 post on X, Harris said that Republicans have not done enough to bring down “spending, deficits and inflation" since Trump's electoral victory in November.Because of this, Harris wrote, “I am now undecided on what House leadership should look like in the 119th Congress.”___Associated Press writer Farnoush Amiri in Washington contributed to this report.

Read Trump's endorsement of Johnson to stay on as House Speaker

SEDGWICK COUNTY — The Sedgwick County Zoo reported on Monday that they recently learned of a positive case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu identified within Sedgwick County.

"While this strain doesn't pose a high risk to human health, it does put many Zoo animals at risk. To ensure their safety, we've activated our HPAI action plan."

 As a result, the Tropics building at the zoo will be temporarily closed and Penguin Encounters will be discontinued. 

"Our dedicated animal care staff is working tirelessly to provide the birds with the best care, following strict safety protocols." 

"We appreciate your understanding and support. We'll keep you updated regarding the reopening and the resumption of our Penguin Encounters."&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733747978622.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — The Sedgwick County Zoo reported on Monday that they recently learned of a positive case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or bird flu identified within Sedgwick County."While this strain doesn't pose a high risk to human health, it does put many Zoo animals at risk. To ensure their safety, we've activated our HPAI action plan." As a result, the Tropics building at the zoo will be temporarily closed and Penguin Encounters will be discontinued. "Our dedicated animal care staff is working tirelessly to provide the birds with the best care, following strict safety protocols." "We appreciate your understanding and support. We'll keep you updated regarding the reopening and the resumption of our Penguin Encounters."&nbsp;

Bird flu prompts temporary closures at Kansas zoo 

President Joe Biden has scheduled a state funeral in Washington for former President Jimmy Carter on Jan. 9.

Biden also declared Jan. 9 as a National Day of Mourning across the U.S. Carter, the longest-lived former president, died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100.

Biden also ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for 30 days from Sunday.

Text of the official White House Executive Order is below.

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1.&nbsp; All executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government shall be closed on January 9, 2025, as a mark of respect for James Earl Carter, Jr., the thirty-ninth President of the United States.&nbsp;

Sec. 2.&nbsp; The heads of executive departments and agencies may determine that certain offices and installations of their organizations, or parts thereof, must remain open and that certain employees must report for duty on January 9, 2025, for reasons of national security, defense, or other public need.

Sec. 3.&nbsp; January 9, 2025, shall be considered as falling within the scope of Executive Order 11582 of February 11, 1971, and of 5 U.S.C. 5546 and 6103(b) and other similar statutes insofar as they relate to the pay and leave of employees of the&nbsp;United States.&nbsp;

Sec. 4. &nbsp;The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall take such actions as may be necessary to implement this order.

Sec. 5. &nbsp;General Provisions. &nbsp;(a) &nbsp;Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

(i)&nbsp; &nbsp;the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

(ii) &nbsp;the functions of the Director of the Office of&nbsp;Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (b) &nbsp;This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (c) &nbsp;This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667594213472.png" alt="Former President Jimmy Carter photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Former President Jimmy Carter photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>President Joe Biden has scheduled a state funeral in Washington for former President Jimmy Carter on Jan. 9.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH: President Biden complete remarks on death of former President Jimmy Carter. <a href="https://t.co/Sea2QtgMPW">pic.twitter.com/Sea2QtgMPW</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1873534289557545352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Biden also declared Jan. 9 as a National Day of Mourning across the U.S. Carter, the longest-lived former president, died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Carter was an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian. He will be greatly missed. <a href="https://t.co/OamGQ13u9U">pic.twitter.com/OamGQ13u9U</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1873745890105561445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Biden also ordered U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for 30 days from Sunday.Text of the official White House Executive Order is below.By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows:Section 1.&nbsp; All executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government shall be closed on January 9, 2025, as a mark of respect for James Earl Carter, Jr., the thirty-ninth President of the United States.&nbsp;Sec. 2.&nbsp; The heads of executive departments and agencies may determine that certain offices and installations of their organizations, or parts thereof, must remain open and that certain employees must report for duty on January 9, 2025, for reasons of national security, defense, or other public need.Sec. 3.&nbsp; January 9, 2025, shall be considered as falling within the scope of Executive Order 11582 of February 11, 1971, and of 5 U.S.C. 5546 and 6103(b) and other similar statutes insofar as they relate to the pay and leave of employees of the&nbsp;United States.&nbsp;Sec. 4. &nbsp;The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall take such actions as may be necessary to implement this order.Sec. 5. &nbsp;General Provisions. &nbsp;(a) &nbsp;Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:(i)&nbsp; &nbsp;the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or(ii) &nbsp;the functions of the Director of the Office of&nbsp;Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (b) &nbsp;This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (c) &nbsp;This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Most federal employees will have Jan. 9 off in observance of Jimmy Carter

SEDGWICK COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Sunday in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735575071169.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Sunday in Wichita.A mini-bike driven by 25-year-old Kevin Wilson of Wichita was eastbound on East Gilbert Avenue and did not stop at the stop sign at the intersection of Edgemoor Avenue, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.The mini bike collided with the front driver's side of a transport van driven by a 65-year-old Wichita resident. First responders found Wilson unresponsive and not breathing, according to Rebolledo.&nbsp; Officers administered life-saving measures until EMS arrived and pronounced him deceased at the scene.&nbsp;The driver of the van remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.Preliminary findings indicate that speed is suspected to be a contributing factor in the crash. This incident remains under active investigation, according to Rebolledo.