TOPEKA&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/7v3sX41WVujpU5S5oDNfVdUtl4bGe0JJUeZLnMafa3A=417">Kansas&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks Commission</a>&nbsp;will hold its next public meeting on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/vAZKVyFc9VkO3bCZCuVzCeePlbaEJfBgQWpPIZIcoto=417">Thursday, August 14, 2025</a>, at the Finnup Center at the Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City. The meeting will begin at noon and continue until all agenda items are addressed.

Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FHow-to-Attend-Commission-Meetings-Virtually%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/BWUVxYbMNQdr-bnVFrJgK907qnpuP2ur2nsx-t0CuJ4=417">HERE</a>&nbsp;under “How To Attend Commission Meetings Virtually.”

The meeting will begin with a report from the Kansas Department of&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks, including a public hearing on the following regulations:

Commissioners will also receive updates on regulations currently in the promulgation process.

The meeting will conclude with an additional opportunity for public comment.

The complete agenda can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/2/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/LgbKoYmp5OyXa94_N5C2OtbMPUzH91LcQ3lYO-jy95o=417">HERE</a>.

An interpreter for the hearing impaired can be requested by calling the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Individuals with disabilities may request other accommodations by contacting KDWP at (785) 294-2645.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/7v3sX41WVujpU5S5oDNfVdUtl4bGe0JJUeZLnMafa3A=417">Kansas&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks Commission</a>&nbsp;will hold its next public meeting on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/vAZKVyFc9VkO3bCZCuVzCeePlbaEJfBgQWpPIZIcoto=417">Thursday, August 14, 2025</a>, at the Finnup Center at the Lee Richardson Zoo in Garden City. The meeting will begin at noon and continue until all agenda items are addressed.Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FHow-to-Attend-Commission-Meetings-Virtually%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/BWUVxYbMNQdr-bnVFrJgK907qnpuP2ur2nsx-t0CuJ4=417">HERE</a>&nbsp;under “How To Attend Commission Meetings Virtually.”The meeting will begin with a report from the Kansas Department of&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;and Parks, including a public hearing on the following regulations:<ul>
 <li>K.A.R. 115-2-1 – Trout Fee and Senior License FeesEstablishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting OR Fishing License (ages 65–74) for $50.Establishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting AND Fishing Combo License (ages 65–74) for $90.Increasing the trout permit fee from $12 to $17.50.</li><li>Establishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting OR Fishing License (ages 65–74) for $50.</li><li>Establishing a 5-year Resident Senior Hunting AND Fishing Combo License (ages 65–74) for $90.</li><li>Increasing the trout permit fee from $12 to $17.50.</li><li>K.A.R. 115-4-4 – Nonlead Muzzleloader ShotExpanding allowable projectile types for muzzleloaders, enabling use of modern, non-lead (non-toxic) options.</li><li>Expanding allowable projectile types for muzzleloaders, enabling use of modern, non-lead (non-toxic) options.</li><li>K.A.R. 115-25-9 – Deer SeasonsUpdating season dates, units, and permit limits for the 2025–2026 Extended White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm Season:Proposed Season DatesUnit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026Proposed Permit LimitsNo WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18One WAO permit: Unit 3Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>Updating season dates, units, and permit limits for the 2025–2026 Extended White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm Season:Proposed Season DatesUnit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026Proposed Permit LimitsNo WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18One WAO permit: Unit 3Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>Proposed Season DatesUnit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026</li><li>Unit 3: Jan. 1–4, 2026</li><li>Units 4–10, 16: Jan. 1–11, 2026</li><li>Units 11–15, 19: Jan. 1–18, 2026</li><li>Proposed Permit LimitsNo WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18One WAO permit: Unit 3Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>No WAO permits: Units 1, 2, 17, 18</li><li>One WAO permit: Unit 3</li><li>Four additional WAO permits: Units 4-10, 16</li><li>Nine additional WAO permits: Units 11-15, 19 (on non-KDWP-managed lands, except Berentz-Dick and Elk City&nbsp;Wildlife&nbsp;Areas)</li><li>K.A.R. 115-25-9a – Deer Seasons on Military UnitsSetting specific deer season dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Smoky Hill Air National Guard, including antlerless-only and extended firearm opportunities.Fort RileyPre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026Fort LeavenworthFirearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026Smoky Hill Air National GuardFirearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>Setting specific deer season dates for Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, and Smoky Hill Air National Guard, including antlerless-only and extended firearm opportunities.Fort RileyPre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026Fort LeavenworthFirearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026Smoky Hill Air National GuardFirearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>Fort RileyPre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026</li><li>Pre-rut White-tailed Antlerless Firearm: Oct. 11-13, 2025</li><li>White-tailed Antlerless-only Firearm: Nov. 28-30, 2025</li><li>Firearm: Dec. 13-21, 2025</li><li>Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-11, 2026</li><li>Fort LeavenworthFirearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026</li><li>Firearm: Nov. 15-16, Nov. 22-23, Nov. 27-30, Dec. 6-7, and Dec. 13-14, 2025</li><li>Extended Firearm White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 1-18. 2026</li><li>Archery White-tailed Antlerless-only: Jan. 19-31, 2026</li><li>Smoky Hill Air National GuardFirearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>Firearm: Dec. 3-14, 2025</li><li>K.A.R. 115-25-12 – Coyote SeasonsExtending the night vision coyote hunting season to run from September 1 through March 31, excluding the following periods:The first Saturday in September and the 22 consecutive days following (total of 23 days)The Wednesday following Thanksgiving and the 11 consecutive days following (total of 12 days)If approved, the 2025-2026 night vision coyote hunting season would begin September 29 and run through December 2, then resume December 15 through March 31, 2026. The September 1-5 window will not be in effect for 2025 due to regulatory timelines.</li><li>Extending the night vision coyote hunting season to run from September 1 through March 31, excluding the following periods:The first Saturday in September and the 22 consecutive days following (total of 23 days)The Wednesday following Thanksgiving and the 11 consecutive days following (total of 12 days)</li><li>The first Saturday in September and the 22 consecutive days following (total of 23 days)</li><li>The Wednesday following Thanksgiving and the 11 consecutive days following (total of 12 days)</li><li>If approved, the 2025-2026 night vision coyote hunting season would begin September 29 and run through December 2, then resume December 15 through March 31, 2026. The September 1-5 window will not be in effect for 2025 due to regulatory timelines.</li><li>K.A.R. 115-5-1 – Coyote Equipment, Taking MethodsUpdating the season dates established by K.A.R. 115-25-12.</li><li>Updating the season dates established by K.A.R. 115-25-12.</li>
 </ul>Commissioners will also receive updates on regulations currently in the promulgation process.Other agenda items include:<ul>
 <li>General public comment</li><li>Remarks from KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy</li><li>Informational updates on Kansas State Park camping fees</li><li>General discussion on nonresident waterfowl hunting</li><li>Review of additional topics that may be voted on at a future meeting</li>
 </ul>The meeting will conclude with an additional opportunity for public comment.The complete agenda can be viewed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FUpcoming-Meeting-Information%2FAugust-14-2025-Garden-City-KS%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/2/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/LgbKoYmp5OyXa94_N5C2OtbMPUzH91LcQ3lYO-jy95o=417">HERE</a>.Attendees can participate in the meetings in person or virtually. Instructions for joining via Zoom, phone, or live streaming are available&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.gov%2FKDWP-Info%2FCommission%2FHow-to-Attend-Commission-Meetings-Virtually%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=commission/1/0101019884ff78c3-13a6a0be-a232-49d5-ac6a-d9fe10757a0a-000000/BWUVxYbMNQdr-bnVFrJgK907qnpuP2ur2nsx-t0CuJ4=417">HERE</a>&nbsp;under “How To Attend Commission Meetings Virtually.”An interpreter for the hearing impaired can be requested by calling the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at 1-800-432-0698. Individuals with disabilities may request other accommodations by contacting KDWP at (785) 294-2645.

Kan. wildlife officials to review deer, coyote and trout regulations

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Wednesday named country music star George Strait, “Rocky” actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, the rock band Kiss and actor-singer Michael Crawford among the first batch of Kennedy Center Honors nominees under his leadership as the center’s chairman and said he’ll host the awards program.

Trump also said he'll “fully renovate” the entire infrastructure of the Kennedy Center to make it a “crown jewel” of arts and culture in the United States.

“We're going to bring it to a higher level than it ever hit,” the president said, adding the venue would be featured in next year's celebrations of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-cuts-humanities-america250-anniversary-doge-572cf095773c66856a1da94030ffd5a9">America's 250th anniversary</a>.

Trump said he didn’t want to host the program but was invited to do so and agreed.

The Republican president avoided the Kennedy Center Honors awards program during his first term after artists said they wouldn't attend out of protest. This year, he has taken over as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-kennedy-center-board-chairman-firings-21cd0018c6e9f591d59becea8573d8c0">the Kennedy Center's new chairman</a>&nbsp;and fired the board of trustees, which he replaced with loyalists.

In a Truth Social post on Tuesday, Trump teased a name change for the center, formally the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and said it would be restored to its past glory.

“GREAT Nominees for the TRUMP/KENNEDY CENTER, whoops, I mean, KENNEDY CENTER, AWARDS,” Trump wrote. He said work was being done on the site that would bring it "back to the absolute TOP LEVEL of luxury, glamour, and entertainment.”

“It had fallen on hard times, physically, BUT WILL SOON BE MAKING A MAJOR COMEBACK!!!” he wrote.

In a statement on its social media feed, the Kennedy Center said it was “honored” to host Trump, who was visiting for the third time since January.

“Thanks to his advocacy, our beautiful building will undergo renovations to restore its prestige and grandeur,” the venue said.

Trump complained during a March visit that the building is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-kennedy-center-559bf5254b99f938dc156b60c9a495e7">a state of “tremendous disrepair.”</a>

Trump, who had indicated he wanted a more active role in the selection process, said he was “about 98% involved” in choosing the honorees. He said he “turned down plenty” of names, saying those individuals were “too woke,” or too liberal. He described the artists he announced on Wednesday, including several of his favorites, as “great people.”

Historically, a bipartisan advisory committee selects the recipients, who over the years have ranged from George Balanchine and Tom Hanks to Aretha Franklin and Stephen Sondheim. A message sent to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-center-trump-what-to-know-4305e2c3d5611c4bfb1686d597727369">the Kennedy Center</a>&nbsp;press office asking how this year's honorees were selected wasn’t returned Tuesday.

In the past, Trump has floated the idea of granting Kennedy Center Honors status to singer-songwriter Paul Anka and Stallone, one of three actors Trump named as Hollywood ambassadors earlier this year. Anka was supposed to perform “My Way” at Trump’s first inaugural and backed out at the last moment.

The Kennedy Center Honors were established in 1978 and have been given to a broad range of artists. Until Trump’s first term, presidents of both major political parties traditionally attended the annual ceremony, even when they disagreed politically with a given recipient.

Prominent liberals such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVWTluhfsts">Barbra Streisand</a>&nbsp;and Warren Beatty were honored during the administration of Republican George W. Bush, and a leading conservative, Charlton Heston, was feted during the administration of Democrat Bill Clinton.

In 2017, after honoree Norman Lear declared he wouldn't attend a White House celebration in protest of Trump’s proposed cuts to federal arts funding, Trump and first lady Melania Trump decided to skip the Kennedy Center event and remained away throughout his first term. Honorees during that time included such Trump critics as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-united-states-government-arts-and-entertainment-celebrity-def16b009b124f499f2d1a1ffbd815a8">Cher</a>, Lin-Manuel Miranda and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/26210989c660404b9fc700a619ac877f">Sally Field</a>.

Since returning to office, Trump has taken a more forceful stance on the Kennedy Center and inserted himself into its governance. Besides naming himself chairman and remaking the board, he has indicated he'd take over decisions regarding programming at the center and vowed to end events featuring performers in drag.

The steps have drawn further criticism from some artists. In March, the producers of “Hamilton” pulled out of staging the Broadway hit musical in 2026, citing Trump's aggressive takeover of the institution's leadership.

House Republicans added an amendment to a spending bill Trump signed into law in July to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLBYbAiNrY4">rename the Kennedy Center’s Opera House</a>&nbsp;after Melania Trump, but that venue has yet to be renamed. Maria Shriver, a niece of the late President Kennedy, a Democrat, has criticized as “insane” a separate House proposal to rename the entire center after Trump.

Italie reported from New York. Associated Press writer Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755108595875.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kennedy Center" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kennedy Center</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump on Wednesday named country music star George Strait, “Rocky” actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor, the rock band Kiss and actor-singer Michael Crawford among the first batch of Kennedy Center Honors nominees under his leadership as the center’s chairman and said he’ll host the awards program.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeStrait?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeorgeStrait</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/QWJ89jYXIE">pic.twitter.com/QWJ89jYXIE</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955655797846732992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces Michael Crawford as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee. <a href="https://t.co/wDpNxgSrSG">pic.twitter.com/wDpNxgSrSG</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955656852529889353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces <a href="https://twitter.com/kiss?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kiss</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/2humQiLBio">pic.twitter.com/2humQiLBio</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955658164130775127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces legendary actor <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSlyStallone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSlyStallone</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/wOro0slUCx">pic.twitter.com/wOro0slUCx</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955658539453554690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> announces <a href="https://twitter.com/gloriagaynor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gloriagaynor</a> as a 2025 Kennedy Center Honors nominee <a href="https://t.co/YPztXwvCeZ">pic.twitter.com/YPztXwvCeZ</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1955658293734707559?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Kennedy Center is proud to announce our incredible lineup of 2025 Kennedy Center Honorees: •George Strait (<a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeStrait?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeorgeStrait</a>) •Michael Crawford •Sylvester Stallone (<a href="https://twitter.com/TheSlyStallone?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheSlyStallone</a>) •Gloria Gaynor (<a href="https://twitter.com/gloriagaynor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GloriaGaynor</a>) •Kiss (<a href="https://twitter.com/kiss?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kiss</a>) Congratulations to our 48th Class! <a href="https://t.co/y8iWt4U0Lq">pic.twitter.com/y8iWt4U0Lq</a>&mdash; The Kennedy Center (@kencen) <a href="https://twitter.com/kencen/status/1955665540208603319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump also said he'll “fully renovate” the entire infrastructure of the Kennedy Center to make it a “crown jewel” of arts and culture in the United States.“We're going to bring it to a higher level than it ever hit,” the president said, adding the venue would be featured in next year's celebrations of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-cuts-humanities-america250-anniversary-doge-572cf095773c66856a1da94030ffd5a9">America's 250th anniversary</a>.Trump said he didn’t want to host the program but was invited to do so and agreed.The Republican president avoided the Kennedy Center Honors awards program during his first term after artists said they wouldn't attend out of protest. This year, he has taken over as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-kennedy-center-board-chairman-firings-21cd0018c6e9f591d59becea8573d8c0">the Kennedy Center's new chairman</a>&nbsp;and fired the board of trustees, which he replaced with loyalists.In a Truth Social post on Tuesday, Trump teased a name change for the center, formally the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and said it would be restored to its past glory.“GREAT Nominees for the TRUMP/KENNEDY CENTER, whoops, I mean, KENNEDY CENTER, AWARDS,” Trump wrote. He said work was being done on the site that would bring it "back to the absolute TOP LEVEL of luxury, glamour, and entertainment.”“It had fallen on hard times, physically, BUT WILL SOON BE MAKING A MAJOR COMEBACK!!!” he wrote.In a statement on its social media feed, the Kennedy Center said it was “honored” to host Trump, who was visiting for the third time since January.“Thanks to his advocacy, our beautiful building will undergo renovations to restore its prestige and grandeur,” the venue said.Trump complained during a March visit that the building is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-kennedy-center-559bf5254b99f938dc156b60c9a495e7">a state of “tremendous disrepair.”</a>Trump, who had indicated he wanted a more active role in the selection process, said he was “about 98% involved” in choosing the honorees. He said he “turned down plenty” of names, saying those individuals were “too woke,” or too liberal. He described the artists he announced on Wednesday, including several of his favorites, as “great people.”Historically, a bipartisan advisory committee selects the recipients, who over the years have ranged from George Balanchine and Tom Hanks to Aretha Franklin and Stephen Sondheim. A message sent to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-center-trump-what-to-know-4305e2c3d5611c4bfb1686d597727369">the Kennedy Center</a>&nbsp;press office asking how this year's honorees were selected wasn’t returned Tuesday.In the past, Trump has floated the idea of granting Kennedy Center Honors status to singer-songwriter Paul Anka and Stallone, one of three actors Trump named as Hollywood ambassadors earlier this year. Anka was supposed to perform “My Way” at Trump’s first inaugural and backed out at the last moment.The Kennedy Center Honors were established in 1978 and have been given to a broad range of artists. Until Trump’s first term, presidents of both major political parties traditionally attended the annual ceremony, even when they disagreed politically with a given recipient.Prominent liberals such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVWTluhfsts">Barbra Streisand</a>&nbsp;and Warren Beatty were honored during the administration of Republican George W. Bush, and a leading conservative, Charlton Heston, was feted during the administration of Democrat Bill Clinton.In 2017, after honoree Norman Lear declared he wouldn't attend a White House celebration in protest of Trump’s proposed cuts to federal arts funding, Trump and first lady Melania Trump decided to skip the Kennedy Center event and remained away throughout his first term. Honorees during that time included such Trump critics as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-united-states-government-arts-and-entertainment-celebrity-def16b009b124f499f2d1a1ffbd815a8">Cher</a>, Lin-Manuel Miranda and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/26210989c660404b9fc700a619ac877f">Sally Field</a>.Since returning to office, Trump has taken a more forceful stance on the Kennedy Center and inserted himself into its governance. Besides naming himself chairman and remaking the board, he has indicated he'd take over decisions regarding programming at the center and vowed to end events featuring performers in drag.The steps have drawn further criticism from some artists. In March, the producers of “Hamilton” pulled out of staging the Broadway hit musical in 2026, citing Trump's aggressive takeover of the institution's leadership.House Republicans added an amendment to a spending bill Trump signed into law in July to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLBYbAiNrY4">rename the Kennedy Center’s Opera House</a>&nbsp;after Melania Trump, but that venue has yet to be renamed. Maria Shriver, a niece of the late President Kennedy, a Democrat, has criticized as “insane” a separate House proposal to rename the entire center after Trump.___Italie reported from New York. Associated Press writer Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report.

🎥Country music legend among Kennedy Center honor nominees

SEDGWICK—A suspect accused in what police referred to as a Kansas cold case killing will return to court on Tuesday afternoon.

Pedro Morones, Jr., 31 of Wichita, will appear before Judge Jeffrey Goering for a preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

He is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder, criminal discharge of a firearm, and three counts of aggravated assault.

Just after 1:30a.m. March 29, 2021, police responded to a report of a walk-in shooting victim at a local hospital in Wichita, according to Police Captain Aaron Moses.&nbsp; The victim, 21-year-old Abram Galvan, had been shot once and later died from his injuries.

Investigators determined the shooting was linked to a shots-fired incident reported near 19th and Jackson in Wichita around the same time.

Since that day, WPD Homicide Investigators have worked tirelessly to seek justice for Abram and his loved ones. Their efforts included following up on leads, analyzing forensic and electronic evidence, collaborating with media to encourage witnesses to come forward, and featuring the case on Wichita Police Department's Cold Case Homicide website.

In early 2025, new information emerged, leading investigators to identify a potential suspect. With assistance from the United States Marshal’s Office, Wichita Police investigators arrested Morones.

Morones remain jailed on a one-million-500 thousand dollar bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741866222570.png" alt="Morones-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Morones-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK—A suspect accused in what police referred to as a Kansas cold case killing will return to court on Tuesday afternoon.Pedro Morones, Jr., 31 of Wichita, will appear before Judge Jeffrey Goering for a preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.He is charged with 1st&nbsp;degree murder, criminal discharge of a firearm, and three counts of aggravated assault.Just after 1:30a.m. March 29, 2021, police responded to a report of a walk-in shooting victim at a local hospital in Wichita, according to Police Captain Aaron Moses.&nbsp; The victim, 21-year-old Abram Galvan, had been shot once and later died from his injuries.Investigators determined the shooting was linked to a shots-fired incident reported near 19th and Jackson in Wichita around the same time.Since that day, WPD Homicide Investigators have worked tirelessly to seek justice for Abram and his loved ones. Their efforts included following up on leads, analyzing forensic and electronic evidence, collaborating with media to encourage witnesses to come forward, and featuring the case on Wichita Police Department's Cold Case Homicide website.In early 2025, new information emerged, leading investigators to identify a potential suspect. With assistance from the United States Marshal’s Office, Wichita Police investigators arrested Morones.Morones remain jailed on a one-million-500 thousand dollar bond.

Preliminary hearing for suspect in Kan. cold case killing

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a four-vehicle crash that sent three people to the hospital.

Just before 7p.m. Tuesday, a black Chevrolet Malibu was eastbound on 18th Street at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

 At 18th and Indiana, The Chevrolet struck a northbound Toyota Highlander.&nbsp; The Chevrolet then struck a westbound Dodge Durango. The impact forced the Toyota into a rotational spin and redirected the Toyota into the westbound lanes of 18th Street. 

As the Toyota was spinning, it struck a red Ford Taurus and a black Chrysler 200 that were both traveling westbound on 18th Street before coming to rest. 

EMS transported the driver of the Toyota to a local hospital with critical injuries. The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The passenger of the Chevrolet was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

All of the drivers and or passengers of the Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and Chrysler fled the scene of the collision prior to the arrival of the responding officers. 

The driver of the Toyota was in critical, but stable condition Wednesday morning, according to Gonzalez.&nbsp; The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota and the passenger of the Chevrolet are both in stable condition. Police released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a four-vehicle crash that sent three people to the hospital.Just before 7p.m. Tuesday, a black Chevrolet Malibu was eastbound on 18th Street at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. At 18th and Indiana, The Chevrolet struck a northbound Toyota Highlander.&nbsp; The Chevrolet then struck a westbound Dodge Durango. The impact forced the Toyota into a rotational spin and redirected the Toyota into the westbound lanes of 18th Street. As the Toyota was spinning, it struck a red Ford Taurus and a black Chrysler 200 that were both traveling westbound on 18th Street before coming to rest. EMS transported the driver of the Toyota to a local hospital with critical injuries. The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The passenger of the Chevrolet was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. All of the drivers and or passengers of the Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and Chrysler fled the scene of the collision prior to the arrival of the responding officers. The driver of the Toyota was in critical, but stable condition Wednesday morning, according to Gonzalez.&nbsp; The rear seat juvenile passenger of the Toyota and the passenger of the Chevrolet are both in stable condition. Police released no additional details.

KCPD: 4 drivers fled after 5-vehicle critical injury crash

LAWRENCE, Kan.—&nbsp;Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season kickoff against Fresno State on Aug. 23, the University of Kansas announced an unprecedented gift from alumnus David G. Booth of Austin, Texas. The extraordinary gift, amounting to approximately $300 million, is the largest in Kansas Athletics and University of Kansas history, and is among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics, according to a media release from the university.&nbsp;

Booth, a graduate of both Lawrence High School and KU, is an investing legend and founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors — a global investment firm that manages $853 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025. Booth's visionary gift includes a $75 million challenge to other donors that launches the next phase of progress on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The remainder of his commitment will generate a stream of income that will strengthen Kansas Athletics across generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"David's unprecedented generosity is transformative now and for our future," said KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/travis-goff/166">Travis Goff</a>. "It accelerates phase II of the Gateway District and the new 'Booth' and inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision. We're profoundly grateful for David's leadership and extraordinary impact on generations of student-athletes and fans. There is no more generous and impactful Jayhawk, and we are so fortunate to call him a friend and mentor."&nbsp;

It's not just the scale of the gift that is remarkable, but what it will accomplish. Booth's commitment will propel the Gateway District's next phase, which adds to private and civic investment for a new hotel, additional retail and restaurant spaces, student housing, improved parking and an outdoor event plaza.

The remainder of Booth's gift will allow Kansas Athletics to be strategic, innovative and maintain a leadership position in college athletics. With the advent of revenue sharing and the continued changes in NCAA and conference dynamics, his generosity will help enable KU to take the next step in cementing itself as a national leader in college athletics.

"David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities, generate Jayhawk spirit and create lasting bonds between alumni, students and fans," said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. "His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep. We are beyond grateful for his transformative gift."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For Booth, giving back to KU is an investment in the university and its mission. He hopes his philanthropy will inspire others to also support the Gateway District project and what he calls "the prototype for future football stadiums" at whatever level they can.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"One of life's greatest privileges is being able to give back to the people and places that gave so much to you," said Booth. "KU and Lawrence are a big part of my story, and it means a lot to support the community that invested in me. Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come. This is really about the future we're building."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

When he was a child, Booth's parents, Gilbert and Betty Booth, moved the family from their home in Garnett, Kansas, to Lawrence at 1931 Naismith Drive, near Allen Fieldhouse. The family gathered regularly to listen to KU games on the radio, glued to Max Falkenstien's iconic voice. At the age of 13, Booth attended his first game through the Boy Scouts, working as an usher in the football stadium. He later worked basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse by selling popcorn in the stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Lawrence High graduate attended KU, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1968 and a Master of Science in Business in 1969 before earning his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Booth founded Dimensional Fund Advisors in 1981 to apply the principles of financial science to practical investment solutions. Booth started Dimensional in collaboration with several others from the University of Chicago, including Booth's mentor, former professor and Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama, and classmate Rex Sinquefield, who co-founded the firm. Booth and Dimensional have been recognized for helping transform the industry toward more transparent, low-cost and data-driven solutions for investors. That story was recently profiled by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris in the film "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T98825bzcKw" target="_blank">Tune Out the Noise</a>."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Booth's landmark gift is the most recent in his long legacy of support at KU, helping transform athletics and its impact for the university. Booth provided a foundational gift of $50 million in 2017 to kick off renovations at the stadium, which was named for him in 2018. In 2010, he donated James Naismith's original rules of basketball to the university, a top attraction at the Booth Family Hall of Athletics, which he and his family provided $5 million for in 2004, followed by $4 million for subsequent improvements. His philanthropy is legendary and extends across areas, including the arts and academics. In 2008, he provided a gift valued at $300 million to the University of Chicago School of Business, where he earned his MBA. The school was named the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in his honor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

With KU's football season opener around the corner, Booth's excitement to get back to the stadium is growing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I feel the same inspiration that I felt as an usher in the stadium in 1960," Booth said. "I was blown away by all the people in the stands, the Jayhawk spirit. I'm feeling the same way now — I'm ready to celebrate with everyone."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755093387790.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan.—&nbsp;Just days before the Kansas Jayhawks football season kickoff against Fresno State on Aug. 23, the University of Kansas announced an unprecedented gift from alumnus David G. Booth of Austin, Texas. The extraordinary gift, amounting to approximately $300 million, is the largest in Kansas Athletics and University of Kansas history, and is among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics, according to a media release from the university.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For every Jayhawk today and tomorrow – Thank you, David Booth. 🔗→<a href="https://t.co/eF80fPxmfc">https://t.co/eF80fPxmfc</a> <a href="https://t.co/oQGvOatSk6">pic.twitter.com/oQGvOatSk6</a>&mdash; Kansas Jayhawks (@KUAthletics) <a href="https://twitter.com/KUAthletics/status/1955625648334032933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script</div>Booth, a graduate of both Lawrence High School and KU, is an investing legend and founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors — a global investment firm that manages $853 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025. Booth's visionary gift includes a $75 million challenge to other donors that launches the next phase of progress on the Gateway District and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. The remainder of his commitment will generate a stream of income that will strengthen Kansas Athletics across generations.&nbsp;&nbsp;"David's unprecedented generosity is transformative now and for our future," said KU Athletics Director and Vice Chancellor&nbsp;<a href="https://kuathletics.com/staff-directory/travis-goff/166">Travis Goff</a>. "It accelerates phase II of the Gateway District and the new 'Booth' and inspires others to step up and join in completing this vision. We're profoundly grateful for David's leadership and extraordinary impact on generations of student-athletes and fans. There is no more generous and impactful Jayhawk, and we are so fortunate to call him a friend and mentor."&nbsp;It's not just the scale of the gift that is remarkable, but what it will accomplish. Booth's commitment will propel the Gateway District's next phase, which adds to private and civic investment for a new hotel, additional retail and restaurant spaces, student housing, improved parking and an outdoor event plaza.The remainder of Booth's gift will allow Kansas Athletics to be strategic, innovative and maintain a leadership position in college athletics. With the advent of revenue sharing and the continued changes in NCAA and conference dynamics, his generosity will help enable KU to take the next step in cementing itself as a national leader in college athletics."David has always believed in the power of athletics to unite communities, generate Jayhawk spirit and create lasting bonds between alumni, students and fans," said KU Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. "His generosity is inspiring, and his loyalty to KU runs deep. We are beyond grateful for his transformative gift."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For Booth, giving back to KU is an investment in the university and its mission. He hopes his philanthropy will inspire others to also support the Gateway District project and what he calls "the prototype for future football stadiums" at whatever level they can.&nbsp;&nbsp;"One of life's greatest privileges is being able to give back to the people and places that gave so much to you," said Booth. "KU and Lawrence are a big part of my story, and it means a lot to support the community that invested in me. Philanthropy, like investing, pays dividends over time. Each gift compounds, creating opportunities not just for today, but for years to come. This is really about the future we're building."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When he was a child, Booth's parents, Gilbert and Betty Booth, moved the family from their home in Garnett, Kansas, to Lawrence at 1931 Naismith Drive, near Allen Fieldhouse. The family gathered regularly to listen to KU games on the radio, glued to Max Falkenstien's iconic voice. At the age of 13, Booth attended his first game through the Boy Scouts, working as an usher in the football stadium. He later worked basketball games at Allen Fieldhouse by selling popcorn in the stands.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Lawrence High graduate attended KU, earning both a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1968 and a Master of Science in Business in 1969 before earning his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago in 1971.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Booth founded Dimensional Fund Advisors in 1981 to apply the principles of financial science to practical investment solutions. Booth started Dimensional in collaboration with several others from the University of Chicago, including Booth's mentor, former professor and Nobel Laureate Eugene Fama, and classmate Rex Sinquefield, who co-founded the firm. Booth and Dimensional have been recognized for helping transform the industry toward more transparent, low-cost and data-driven solutions for investors. That story was recently profiled by Academy Award winning director Errol Morris in the film "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T98825bzcKw" target="_blank">Tune Out the Noise</a>."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Booth's landmark gift is the most recent in his long legacy of support at KU, helping transform athletics and its impact for the university. Booth provided a foundational gift of $50 million in 2017 to kick off renovations at the stadium, which was named for him in 2018. In 2010, he donated James Naismith's original rules of basketball to the university, a top attraction at the Booth Family Hall of Athletics, which he and his family provided $5 million for in 2004, followed by $4 million for subsequent improvements. His philanthropy is legendary and extends across areas, including the arts and academics. In 2008, he provided a gift valued at $300 million to the University of Chicago School of Business, where he earned his MBA. The school was named the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in his honor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With KU's football season opener around the corner, Booth's excitement to get back to the stadium is growing.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"I feel the same inspiration that I felt as an usher in the stadium in 1960," Booth said. "I was blown away by all the people in the stands, the Jayhawk spirit. I'm feeling the same way now — I'm ready to celebrate with everyone."&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥 KU receives among the largest single gifts in the history of college athletics

A Kansas state representative is calling on Gov. Laura Kelly to address allegations of misconduct involving his predecessor, now serving on the Kansas State Fair Board.

Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, said in a letter to Kelly on Monday that Jason Probst, acted “highly inappropriately” toward him during the Boots and Bling fundraiser for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation on Saturday. Sweely defeated Probst in the 2024 election for the 102nd District seat. Kelly appointed Probst to the Fair Board on July 7.

“Mr. Probst, visibly intoxicated, made disturbing sexual and homophobic comments toward me in front of attendees, and had to be physically held back due to escalating, aggressive behavior,” Sweely wrote in a statement to Hutch Post on Tuesday.

When asked, Jason Probst replied to the accusations saying in a statement, "Kyler Sweely is doing all he can to deflect from his history of abuse and dishonesty. If his feelings get hurt so easily perhaps public service isn’t for him."&nbsp;

In the letter to Gov. Kelly, Sweely said the encounter was not an isolated incident, claiming it was the second time in the past month that Probst had directed a “rant filled with homophobic comments” at him. He urged the governor to “immediately review this matter and take appropriate action” regarding Probst’s continued role on the board.

Kelly’s office confirmed receipt of Sweely’s letter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722265569928.jpeg" alt="Kyler Sweely -file photo" />
 <figcaption>Kyler Sweely -file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;A Kansas state representative is calling on Gov. Laura Kelly to address allegations of misconduct involving his predecessor, now serving on the Kansas State Fair Board.Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, said in a letter to Kelly on Monday that Jason Probst, acted “highly inappropriately” toward him during the Boots and Bling fundraiser for the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation on Saturday. Sweely defeated Probst in the 2024 election for the 102nd District seat. Kelly appointed Probst to the Fair Board on July 7.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665505897161.jpeg" alt="Jason Probst-file photo" />
 <figcaption>Jason Probst-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“Mr. Probst, visibly intoxicated, made disturbing sexual and homophobic comments toward me in front of attendees, and had to be physically held back due to escalating, aggressive behavior,” Sweely wrote in a statement to Hutch Post on Tuesday.When asked, Jason Probst replied to the accusations saying in a statement, "Kyler Sweely is doing all he can to deflect from his history of abuse and dishonesty. If his feelings get hurt so easily perhaps public service isn’t for him."&nbsp;In the letter to Gov. Kelly, Sweely said the encounter was not an isolated incident, claiming it was the second time in the past month that Probst had directed a “rant filled with homophobic comments” at him. He urged the governor to “immediately review this matter and take appropriate action” regarding Probst’s continued role on the board.Kelly’s office confirmed receipt of Sweely’s letter.

Kan. lawmaker asks governor to remove rival from State Fair Board

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Monday that he expected to determine mere moments into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-deadline-putin-423e6a28df5186a48b7383eae41c11c2">his meeting</a>&nbsp;with Russian leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vladimir-putin">Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;this week whether it would be possible to work out a deal to halt the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war in Ukraine</a>.

“At the end of that meeting, probably the first two minutes, I’ll know exactly whether or not a deal can be made,” Trump said at a White House press conference that he called to announce plans for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-homelessness-655bc22834223c7dc93115bbcb2b215c">federal takeover of Washington's police force</a>&nbsp;to help combat crime.

He said he thought Friday's sitdown with Putin in Alaska would be "really a feel-out meeting." Trump added that “it’ll be good, but it might be bad” and predicted he may say, "lots of luck, keep fighting. Or I may say, we can make a deal.”

Putin wants to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-trump-summit-ukraine-war-2afea5988bdaca94cae39b7f86fa59ba">lock in Russia’s gains</a>&nbsp;since invading Ukraine in February 2022 as Trump presses for a ceasefire that has remained out of reach. Trump’s eagerness to reach a deal has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-territory-russia-trump-putin-summit-5d2079bd13561edac7752d338ea7b93c">raised fears in Ukraine and Europe</a>&nbsp;about such an agreement favoring Russia, without sufficient input from Ukraine. Trump has alternately harshly criticized both leaders after promising — and so far failing — to swiftly end the conflict.

The Trump-Putin meeting so far isn't going to include Zelenskyy

Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and was especially dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace.

He said the Ukrainian president had been to “a lot of meetings” without managing to halt a war that Russia started. Trump also noted that Zelenskyy had been in power for the duration of the war and said “nothing happened” during that time. He contrasted that with Putin, who has wielded power in Russia for decades.

Trump said that, after his meeting with Putin, “The next meeting will be with Zelenskyy and Putin" but it could also be a meeting with “Putin and Zelenskyy and me.”

European allies have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-european-statement-084569cce3a6b383325b0a8efa37bc6e">pushed for Ukraine's involvement</a>, fearful that discussions could otherwise favor Moscow.

To that point, Trump said he would call Zelenskyy and European leaders after his discussion with Putin to “tell them what kind of a deal — I’m not going to make a deal. It’s not up to me to make a deal.”

Trump spent the early part of his administration decrying Zelenskyy, even suggesting he was a dictator because his country has not held elections during the war. Zelenskyy was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-oval-office-ukraine-russia-blowup-8aa63e55c859e8fea963911478c376ee">hounded out of the Oval Office</a>&nbsp;in February after Trump and Vice President JD Vance suggested he hadn't been grateful enough for U.S. support.

More recently, Trump has expressed frustration with Putin that Russia hasn't appeared to take a push for a ceasefire more seriously, and softened his tone toward Zelenskyy. His comments Monday suggested he might have had another change of heart.

“President Putin invited me to get involved,” Trump said. He noted that he thought it was “very respectful” that Putin is coming to the U.S. for Friday's meeting, instead of insisting that Trump go to Russia.

“I’d like to see a ceasefire. I’d like to see the best deal that can be made for both parties," Trump said.

The president repeated that any major agreement could involve land swaps, without elaborating. He had threatened Moscow with more economic sanctions if more isn't done to work toward a ceasefire, but suggested Monday that, should Friday's meeting be successful, he could see a day when the U.S. and Russia normalize trade relations.

Putin is expected to be unwavering in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-trump-summit-ukraine-war-2afea5988bdaca94cae39b7f86fa59ba">demands</a>&nbsp;to keep all the territory his forces now occupy and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO, with the long-term aim of returning it to Moscow’s sphere of influence.

Zelenskyy insists he will never consent to any formal Russian annexation of Ukrainian territory or give up a bid for NATO membership.

Putin believes he has the advantage on the ground as Ukrainian forces struggle to hold back Russian advances along the 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front. On the front lines, few Ukrainian soldiers believe there’s an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-attack-front-lines-52263396fbecbcad8138c6af0ba39cca">end in sight to the war</a>.

Europeans will prepare with a virtual meeting on Ukraine this week

With the Europeans and Ukrainians so far not invited to the summit, Germany sought to prepare by inviting Trump, Zelenskyy, the NATO chief and several other European leaders for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-territory-russia-trump-putin-summit-5d2079bd13561edac7752d338ea7b93c">virtual meeting on Wednesday</a>.

The German chancellery said the talks would seek additional ways to pressure Russia and prepare for peace negotiations and “related issues of territorial claims and security.”

Steffen Meyer, spokesperson for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, said the German government “has always emphasized that borders must not be shifted by force” and that Ukraine should decide its own fate “independently and autonomously."

Earlier, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukrainian</a>&nbsp;drone attack killed one person and wounded two others in a region some 260 miles (418 kilometers) east of Moscow.

Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed a total of 39 Ukrainian drones overnight and Monday morning over several Russian regions as well as over the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Monday that he expected to determine mere moments into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-deadline-putin-423e6a28df5186a48b7383eae41c11c2">his meeting</a>&nbsp;with Russian leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vladimir-putin">Vladimir Putin</a>&nbsp;this week whether it would be possible to work out a deal to halt the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war in Ukraine</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump: &quot;We&#39;re going to have a meeting with Vladimir Putin and at the end of that meeting, probably in the first two minutes, I&#39;ll know exactly whether or not a deal can be made.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/edokeefe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@edokeefe</a>: &quot;How will you know that?&quot; Trump: &quot;Because that&#39;s what I do. I make deals.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/0zAtfgAxCT">pic.twitter.com/0zAtfgAxCT</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1954935746751615406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“At the end of that meeting, probably the first two minutes, I’ll know exactly whether or not a deal can be made,” Trump said at a White House press conference that he called to announce plans for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-washington-crime-national-guard-homelessness-655bc22834223c7dc93115bbcb2b215c">federal takeover of Washington's police force</a>&nbsp;to help combat crime.He said he thought Friday's sitdown with Putin in Alaska would be "really a feel-out meeting." Trump added that “it’ll be good, but it might be bad” and predicted he may say, "lots of luck, keep fighting. Or I may say, we can make a deal.”Putin wants to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-trump-summit-ukraine-war-2afea5988bdaca94cae39b7f86fa59ba">lock in Russia’s gains</a>&nbsp;since invading Ukraine in February 2022 as Trump presses for a ceasefire that has remained out of reach. Trump’s eagerness to reach a deal has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-territory-russia-trump-putin-summit-5d2079bd13561edac7752d338ea7b93c">raised fears in Ukraine and Europe</a>&nbsp;about such an agreement favoring Russia, without sufficient input from Ukraine. Trump has alternately harshly criticized both leaders after promising — and so far failing — to swiftly end the conflict.<h2>The Trump-Putin meeting so far isn't going to include Zelenskyy</h2>Trump on Monday ducked repeated chances to say that he would push for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to take part in his discussions with Putin, and was especially dismissive of Zelenskyy and his need to be part of an effort to seek peace.He said the Ukrainian president had been to “a lot of meetings” without managing to halt a war that Russia started. Trump also noted that Zelenskyy had been in power for the duration of the war and said “nothing happened” during that time. He contrasted that with Putin, who has wielded power in Russia for decades.Trump said that, after his meeting with Putin, “The next meeting will be with Zelenskyy and Putin" but it could also be a meeting with “Putin and Zelenskyy and me.”European allies have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-trump-putin-european-statement-084569cce3a6b383325b0a8efa37bc6e">pushed for Ukraine's involvement</a>, fearful that discussions could otherwise favor Moscow.To that point, Trump said he would call Zelenskyy and European leaders after his discussion with Putin to “tell them what kind of a deal — I’m not going to make a deal. It’s not up to me to make a deal.”Trump spent the early part of his administration decrying Zelenskyy, even suggesting he was a dictator because his country has not held elections during the war. Zelenskyy was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-oval-office-ukraine-russia-blowup-8aa63e55c859e8fea963911478c376ee">hounded out of the Oval Office</a>&nbsp;in February after Trump and Vice President JD Vance suggested he hadn't been grateful enough for U.S. support.<h2>Trump's up and down relations with Putin</h2>More recently, Trump has expressed frustration with Putin that Russia hasn't appeared to take a push for a ceasefire more seriously, and softened his tone toward Zelenskyy. His comments Monday suggested he might have had another change of heart.“President Putin invited me to get involved,” Trump said. He noted that he thought it was “very respectful” that Putin is coming to the U.S. for Friday's meeting, instead of insisting that Trump go to Russia.“I’d like to see a ceasefire. I’d like to see the best deal that can be made for both parties," Trump said.The president repeated that any major agreement could involve land swaps, without elaborating. He had threatened Moscow with more economic sanctions if more isn't done to work toward a ceasefire, but suggested Monday that, should Friday's meeting be successful, he could see a day when the U.S. and Russia normalize trade relations.Putin is expected to be unwavering in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-trump-summit-ukraine-war-2afea5988bdaca94cae39b7f86fa59ba">demands</a>&nbsp;to keep all the territory his forces now occupy and to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO, with the long-term aim of returning it to Moscow’s sphere of influence.Zelenskyy insists he will never consent to any formal Russian annexation of Ukrainian territory or give up a bid for NATO membership.Putin believes he has the advantage on the ground as Ukrainian forces struggle to hold back Russian advances along the 1,000-kilometer (600-mile) front. On the front lines, few Ukrainian soldiers believe there’s an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-attack-front-lines-52263396fbecbcad8138c6af0ba39cca">end in sight to the war</a>.<h2>Europeans will prepare with a virtual meeting on Ukraine this week</h2>With the Europeans and Ukrainians so far not invited to the summit, Germany sought to prepare by inviting Trump, Zelenskyy, the NATO chief and several other European leaders for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-ukraine-territory-russia-trump-putin-summit-5d2079bd13561edac7752d338ea7b93c">virtual meeting on Wednesday</a>.The German chancellery said the talks would seek additional ways to pressure Russia and prepare for peace negotiations and “related issues of territorial claims and security.”Steffen Meyer, spokesperson for German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, said the German government “has always emphasized that borders must not be shifted by force” and that Ukraine should decide its own fate “independently and autonomously."Earlier, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukrainian</a>&nbsp;drone attack killed one person and wounded two others in a region some 260 miles (418 kilometers) east of Moscow.Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses intercepted and destroyed a total of 39 Ukrainian drones overnight and Monday morning over several Russian regions as well as over the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014.

🎥Trump explains how he'll know if Putin wants a peace deal with Ukraine

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement continue to make arrests for those involved in sideshows and related activity in Kansas City.

Last weekend police caught suspects running red lights, driving the wrong way into oncoming traffic and performing stunts on Kansas City streets, according to a social media report from the KCPD. "We're cracking down on this illegal behavior."

On Saturday night, police arrested nine suspects, towed eight vehicles, including ATVs on city streets, recovered a&nbsp;stolen vehicle, issued 51 citations, and broke up two sideshows in the making. This resulted from officers assigned to stop lawlessness on the streets and those in the Entertainment District plan.&nbsp; The Clay County Sheriff's Deputies, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Johnson County Sheriff's Deputies and Independence Police assisted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754839853546.jpeg" alt="Photos KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photos KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement continue to make arrests for those involved in sideshows and related activity in Kansas City.Last weekend police caught suspects running red lights, driving the wrong way into oncoming traffic and performing stunts on Kansas City streets, according to a social media report from the KCPD. "We're cracking down on this illegal behavior."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754839804647.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday night, police arrested nine suspects, towed eight vehicles, including ATVs on city streets, recovered a&nbsp;stolen vehicle, issued 51 citations, and broke up two sideshows in the making. This resulted from officers assigned to stop lawlessness on the streets and those in the Entertainment District plan.&nbsp; The Clay County Sheriff's Deputies, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Johnson County Sheriff's Deputies and Independence Police assisted.

KCPD makes more arrests for sideshows

SEDGWICK COUNTY — The search for a Kansas man on parole who was wanted in connection with a a&nbsp;fatal shooting outside Wesley Medical Center in Wichita on Monday night is over.

Robert Schoenberger, 47, died of self-inflicted gunshot wound following a standoff with police in Wichita on Tuesday afternoon, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.

Just after 2p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the 2300 block of North Somerset after they&nbsp;received information that Schoenberger was inside an apartment in the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A SWAT team was unable to get Schoenberger outside. A drone was deployed inside the apartment and found Schoenberger with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at 4:47 p.m., according to Ford.

On Monday night a rolling disturbance between a female victim and Schoenberger, who had cut off his ankle monitor, occurred while they were in a vehicle together. 

The victim, who was driving, stopped in front of Wesley Medical Center, got out, and tried to get away from Schoenberger.&nbsp; He was still in the passenger seat, opened fire—striking the victim in the upper body.

The victim was rushed into surgery but later died from her injuries. During the gunfire, Wesley Medical Center was also struck.

Witnesses reported seeing Schoenberger running from the area with a firearm.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755047529913.png" alt="Schoenberger photo Wichita Polic" />
 <figcaption>Schoenberger photo Wichita Polic</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — The search for a Kansas man on parole who was wanted in connection with a a&nbsp;fatal shooting outside Wesley Medical Center in Wichita on Monday night is over.Robert Schoenberger, 47, died of self-inflicted gunshot wound following a standoff with police in Wichita on Tuesday afternoon, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755082397972.png" alt="SWAT team on the scene Tuesday afaernoon-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>SWAT team on the scene Tuesday afaernoon-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 2p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the 2300 block of North Somerset after they&nbsp;received information that Schoenberger was inside an apartment in the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;A SWAT team was unable to get Schoenberger outside. A drone was deployed inside the apartment and found Schoenberger with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at 4:47 p.m., according to Ford.On Monday night a rolling disturbance between a female victim and Schoenberger, who had cut off his ankle monitor, occurred while they were in a vehicle together. The victim, who was driving, stopped in front of Wesley Medical Center, got out, and tried to get away from Schoenberger.&nbsp; He was still in the passenger seat, opened fire—striking the victim in the upper body.The victim was rushed into surgery but later died from her injuries. During the gunfire, Wesley Medical Center was also struck.Witnesses reported seeing Schoenberger running from the area with a firearm.&nbsp;

Police: Suspect wanted for killing woman outside Kan. hospital is dead

MEADE COUNTY —&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe a heat burst spread a wildfire in in southwest Kansas last weekend at&nbsp;Meade State Park.

On August 9, Kansas Forest Service personnel were requested to respond to a wildfire on Meade State Park,&nbsp;southwest of the city of Meade, according to a social media report from the Kansas Forest Service.

The wildfire started around 1:00 am and spread very actively due to a "Heat Burst." A heat burst is a rare meteorological phenomenon characterized by a sudden, localized increase in air temperature typically occurring during the late evening or nighttime hours. 

It is often associated with decaying thunderstorms and is marked by strong gusty winds and a sharp drop in humidity. Heat bursts can cause extreme temperature increases, which was the case in Meade County as temperatures at 12:00 am exceeded 100°F, with wind gusts exceeding 60mph.

Kansas Forest Service personnel worked alongside local responders to contain the wildfire. Western Kansas' vegetation continues to dry out due to a lack of rainfall and windy conditions. Please remain vigilant during outdoor activities.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755027014316.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MEADE COUNTY —&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe a heat burst spread a wildfire in in southwest Kansas last weekend at&nbsp;Meade State Park.On August 9, Kansas Forest Service personnel were requested to respond to a wildfire on Meade State Park,&nbsp;southwest of the city of Meade, according to a social media report from the Kansas Forest Service.The wildfire started around 1:00 am and spread very actively due to a "Heat Burst." A heat burst is a rare meteorological phenomenon characterized by a sudden, localized increase in air temperature typically occurring during the late evening or nighttime hours. It is often associated with decaying thunderstorms and is marked by strong gusty winds and a sharp drop in humidity. Heat bursts can cause extreme temperature increases, which was the case in Meade County as temperatures at 12:00 am exceeded 100°F, with wind gusts exceeding 60mph.Kansas Forest Service personnel worked alongside local responders to contain the wildfire. Western Kansas' vegetation continues to dry out due to a lack of rainfall and windy conditions. Please remain vigilant during outdoor activities.&nbsp;

Forest Service: Heat burst spread Kansas wildfire

WASHINGTON (AP) —Mexico is expelling 26 high-ranking cartel figures to the United States in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cartels-trump-administration-bondi-justice-department-712bdb8f99522ee72ec357492cfa393b">latest major deal</a>&nbsp;with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;’s administration, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

The cartel leaders and other prominent figures were being flown from Mexico to the U.S. on Tuesday, the person said. They spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the operation that was still ongoing.

Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office and Security ministry confirmed the transfers, which were carried out after a promise from the U.S. Justice Department that U.S. officials would not seek the death penalty in any of the cases.

Expelled cartel figures include leader of group aligned with notorious cartel CJNG

Those being handed over to U.S. custody include Abigael González Valencia, the brother-in-law of CJNG leader&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/nemesio-ruben-oseguera-cervantes-el-mencho-2">Nemesio Rubén “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes</a>, a top target of the U.S. government. He was arrested in February 2015 in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and had been fighting extradition to the United States since then.

Alongside his two brothers, Valencia led “Los Cuinis,” which financed the founding and growth of the CJNG, one of the most powerful and dangerous cartels in Mexico. CJNG traffics hundreds of tons of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl into the United States and other countries and is known for extreme violence, murders, torture and corruption.

Another person, Roberto Salazar, is accused of participating in the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

The Trump administration made dismantling dangerous drug cartels a key priority, designating CJNG and seven other Latin American organized crime groups&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gangs-cartels-sinaloa-aragua-trump-terrorist-organizations-b223f4eb513105fb8d965f80a6cecfeb">foreign terrorist organizations.</a>

Transfers of cartel leaders come ahead of US tariffs on Mexico

The transfers come days before 25%&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-exemption-969a4cfb03638ce9d6c0ffad2b98b4b1">tariffs on Mexican imports</a>&nbsp;are to take effect. Late last month, Trump spoke with Mexican President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-claudia-sheinbaum-woman-president-aa24527fc05dafa9e30b28e4bb40ccbd">Claudia Sheinbaum</a>&nbsp;and agreed to put off threatened 30%&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trade-tariffs-china-deadline-ad2c003e9a709a1dfdfc9a9fd3798baf">tariffs</a>&nbsp;for another 90 days to allow for negotiations.

Sheinbaum has shown a willingness to cooperate more on security than her predecessor, specifically being more aggressive in pursuit of Mexico’s cartels.

But she has drawn a clear line when it comes to Mexico’s sovereignty, rejecting suggestions by Trump and others of intervention by the U.S. military.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755050571697.png" alt="Image U.S. Dept. of Treasury" />
 <figcaption>Image U.S. Dept. of Treasury</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Mexico is expelling 26 high-ranking cartel figures to the United States in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cartels-trump-administration-bondi-justice-department-712bdb8f99522ee72ec357492cfa393b">latest major deal</a>&nbsp;with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;’s administration, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Tuesday.The cartel leaders and other prominent figures were being flown from Mexico to the U.S. on Tuesday, the person said. They spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the operation that was still ongoing.Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office and Security ministry confirmed the transfers, which were carried out after a promise from the U.S. Justice Department that U.S. officials would not seek the death penalty in any of the cases.<h2>Expelled cartel figures include leader of group aligned with notorious cartel CJNG</h2>Those being handed over to U.S. custody include Abigael González Valencia, the brother-in-law of CJNG leader&nbsp;<a href="https://www.state.gov/nemesio-ruben-oseguera-cervantes-el-mencho-2">Nemesio Rubén “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes</a>, a top target of the U.S. government. He was arrested in February 2015 in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, and had been fighting extradition to the United States since then.Alongside his two brothers, Valencia led “Los Cuinis,” which financed the founding and growth of the CJNG, one of the most powerful and dangerous cartels in Mexico. CJNG traffics hundreds of tons of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl into the United States and other countries and is known for extreme violence, murders, torture and corruption.Another person, Roberto Salazar, is accused of participating in the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Tuesday.The Trump administration made dismantling dangerous drug cartels a key priority, designating CJNG and seven other Latin American organized crime groups&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gangs-cartels-sinaloa-aragua-trump-terrorist-organizations-b223f4eb513105fb8d965f80a6cecfeb">foreign terrorist organizations.</a><h2>Transfers of cartel leaders come ahead of US tariffs on Mexico</h2>The transfers come days before 25%&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-exemption-969a4cfb03638ce9d6c0ffad2b98b4b1">tariffs on Mexican imports</a>&nbsp;are to take effect. Late last month, Trump spoke with Mexican President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-claudia-sheinbaum-woman-president-aa24527fc05dafa9e30b28e4bb40ccbd">Claudia Sheinbaum</a>&nbsp;and agreed to put off threatened 30%&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trade-tariffs-china-deadline-ad2c003e9a709a1dfdfc9a9fd3798baf">tariffs</a>&nbsp;for another 90 days to allow for negotiations.Sheinbaum has shown a willingness to cooperate more on security than her predecessor, specifically being more aggressive in pursuit of Mexico’s cartels.But she has drawn a clear line when it comes to Mexico’s sovereignty, rejecting suggestions by Trump and others of intervention by the U.S. military.

Fugitives wanted for violent crimes returned to the U.S. from Mexico 

MEADE COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Tuesday in Meade County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Polaris ATV driven by&nbsp; Timothy Neal&nbsp; Beckerman, 63, Inman, was eastbound on a private property field road in the 22000 Block of B Road in Fowler. The driver accelerated, the ATV struck a tree and he was thrown off the vehicle on impact.

Beckerman was pronounced dead at the scene and transported Fidler-Orme-Bachman Mortuary.

MEADE COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Tuesday in Meade County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Polaris ATV driven by&nbsp; Timothy Neal&nbsp; Beckerman, 63, Inman, was eastbound on a private property field road in the 22000 Block of B Road in Fowler. The driver accelerated, the ATV struck a tree and he was thrown off the vehicle on impact.Beckerman was pronounced dead at the scene and transported Fidler-Orme-Bachman Mortuary.

Kansas man dies after ATV strikes a tree

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City area man faces charges for that fatal shooting that occurred in northeast Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson .

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2701/Arel-Dawkins-RED-COMPLAINT-AD">Arel Dawkins</a>, 36,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2700/Arel-Dawkins-RED-PC-AD">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on Morrell Avenue in the northeast neighborhood in Kansas City on August 6 and located the victim on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp;

Based on eyewitness testimony and surveillance footage, Dawkins ran over the victim with his Ford F-150, then got out and shot her multiple times at close range while she was on the ground after premeditation. He walked toward the street, turned back, and fired at her again. After reloading his weapon, he returned and shot her again before driving away.&nbsp;

Dawkins' cell phone also pinged in the area of the crime scene just prior to the homicide.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755028242050.png" alt="Dawkins photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Dawkins photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City area man faces charges for that fatal shooting that occurred in northeast Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson .<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2701/Arel-Dawkins-RED-COMPLAINT-AD">Arel Dawkins</a>, 36,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Murder and Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2700/Arel-Dawkins-RED-PC-AD">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on Morrell Avenue in the northeast neighborhood in Kansas City on August 6 and located the victim on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds. She was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp;Based on eyewitness testimony and surveillance footage, Dawkins ran over the victim with his Ford F-150, then got out and shot her multiple times at close range while she was on the ground after premeditation. He walked toward the street, turned back, and fired at her again. After reloading his weapon, he returned and shot her again before driving away.&nbsp;Dawkins' cell phone also pinged in the area of the crime scene just prior to the homicide.&nbsp;

Court records: Suspect ran over victim with pickup and shot her

SHAWNEE COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas Sex Offender on drug allegations after a traffic stop

Just before 3:30p.m., August 8, a K-9 Unit with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a black 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck in the 3400 block of NW Frontage Road for an improper turn, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the investigation, the deputy found illegal narcotics.

Michael R. Anderson, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia

Anderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016 after ten convictions for sexual exploitation of a child in Ellis County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755033467479.png" alt="Anderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016." />
 <figcaption>Anderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY– Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas Sex Offender on drug allegations after a traffic stopJust before 3:30p.m., August 8, a K-9 Unit with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a black 1997 Ford F-150 pickup truck in the 3400 block of NW Frontage Road for an improper turn, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the investigation, the deputy found illegal narcotics.Michael R. Anderson, 43, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges that include Possession of an opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernaliaAnderson has been a registered sex offender since 2016 after ten convictions for sexual exploitation of a child in Ellis County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. sex offender jailed on drug allegations after traffic stop

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/dan-gelston">DAN GELSTON</a>

Hours after Paramount and UFC announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ufc-tko-paramount-ultimate-fighting-3804114c82e30e0359605b16105ff6bc">billion-dollar rights deal,</a>&nbsp;Dana White said he had yet to hear from his friend, President Donald Trump, on his thoughts about the fight company’s new streaming home.

That was fine with White. The UFC CEO was set to travel to Washington on Aug. 28 to meet with Trump and his daughter, Ivanka, to catch up and discuss logistics on the proposed Fourth of July fight card next year at the White House.

Trump said last month he wanted to stage a UFC match on the White House grounds with upwards of 20,000 spectators to celebrate 250 years of American independence.

“It’s absolutely going to happen,” White told The Associated Press. “Think about that, the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the UFC will be on the White House south lawn live on CBS.”

The idea of cage fights at the White House would have seemed improbable when the Fertitta brothers purchased UFC for $2 million in 2001 and put White in charge of the fledging fight promotion.

White helped steer the company into a $4 billion sale in 2016 and broadcast rights deals with Fox and ESPN before landing owner TKO Group’s richest one yet — a seven-year deal with Paramount starting in 2026 worth an average of $1.1 billion a year, with all cards on its streaming platform Paramount+ and select numbered events also set to simulcast on CBS.

ESPN, Amazon and Netflix and other traditional sports broadcast players seemed more in play for UFC rights — White had previously hinted fights could air across different platforms — but Paramount was a serious contender from the start of the negotiating window.

The Paramount and UFC deal came just days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paramount-skydance-media-cbs-trump-merger-a030c4f2c1903ed0e7f927782a64fcc0">Skydance</a>&nbsp;and Paramount officially closed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paramount-skydance-merger-fcc-approval-74836c0da9dc0b33f580f714a3f2bfbb">their $8 billion merger</a>&nbsp;— kicking off the reign of a new entertainment giant after a contentious endeavor to get the transaction over the finish line. White said he was impressed with the vision Skydance CEO David Ellison had for the the global MMA leader early in contract talks and how those plans should blossom now that Ellison is chairman and CEO of Paramount.

“When you talk about Paramount, you talk about David Ellison, they’re brilliant businessmen, very aggressive, risk takers,” White said. “They’re right up my alley. These are the kind of guys that I like to be in business with.”

The $1.1 billion deals marks a notable jump from the roughly $550 million that ESPN paid each year for UFC coverage today. But UFC’s new home on Paramount will simplify offerings for fans — with all content set to be available on Paramount+ (which currently costs between $7.99 and $12.99 a month), rather than various pay-per-view fees.

Paramount also said it intends to explore UFC rights outside the U.S. “as they become available in the future.”

UFC matchmakers were set to meet this week to shape what White said would be a loaded debut Paramount card. The UFC boss noted it was still too early to discuss a potential main event for the White House fight night.

“This is a 1-of-1 event,” White said.

There are still some moving parts to UFC broadcasts and other television programming it has its hands in as the company moves into the Paramount era. White said there are still moving parts to the deal and that includes potentially finding new homes for “The Ultimate Fighter,” “Road To UFC,” and “Dana White’s Contender Series.” It’s not necessarily a given the traditional 10 p.m. start time for what were the pay-per-view events would stand, especially on nights cards will also air on CBS.

“We haven’t figured that out yet but we will,” White said.

And what about the sometimes-contentious issue of fighter pay? Some established fighters have clauses in their contracts that they earn more money the higher the buyrate on their cards. Again, most of those issues are to-be-determined as UFC and Paramount settle in to the new deal — with $1.1 billion headed the fight company’s way.

“It will affect fighter pay, big time,” White said. “From deal-to-deal, fighter pay has grown, too. Every time we win, everybody wins.”

Boxer Jake Paul wrote on social media the dying PPV model — which was overpriced for fights as UFC saw a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mmamania.com/ufc-news/313759/report-ufc-suffered-lower-average-buys-per-event-after-already-bad-ppv-numbers-got-worse" target="_blank">decline in buys</a>&nbsp;because of missing star power in many main events — should give the fighters an increased idea of their worth.

“Every fighter in the UFC now has a clear picture of what the revenue is...no more PPV excuses,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/jakepaul/status/1954907708437516708" target="_blank">Paul wrote</a>. “Get your worth boys and girls.”

White also scoffed at the idea that the traditional PPV model is dead.

There are still UFC cards on pay-per-view the rest of the year through the end of the ESPN contract and White and Saudi Arabia have teamed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ufc-wwe-saudi-boxing-tko-252c71058acb1aace5c763ea11c3d3c3">launch a new boxing venture</a>&nbsp;that starts next year and could use a PPV home. White, though, is part of the promotional team for the Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford fight in September in Las Vegas that airs on Netflix.

“It’s definitely not run it’s course,” White said. “There were guys out there who were interested in pay-per-view and there were guys out there that weren’t. Wherever we ended up, that’s what we’re going to roll with.”

White said UFC archival footage “kills it” in repeat views and those classic bouts also needed a new home once the ESPN deal expires.

Just when it seems there’s little left for UFC to conquer, White says, there’s always more. Why stop at becoming the biggest fight game in the world? Why not rewrite the pecking order in popularity and riches and go for No. 1 in all sports?

“You have the NFL, the NBA, the UFC, and soccer globally,” White said. “We’re coming. We’re coming for all of them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750268276007.png" alt="Photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/dan-gelston">DAN GELSTON</a>Hours after Paramount and UFC announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ufc-tko-paramount-ultimate-fighting-3804114c82e30e0359605b16105ff6bc">billion-dollar rights deal,</a>&nbsp;Dana White said he had yet to hear from his friend, President Donald Trump, on his thoughts about the fight company’s new streaming home.That was fine with White. The UFC CEO was set to travel to Washington on Aug. 28 to meet with Trump and his daughter, Ivanka, to catch up and discuss logistics on the proposed Fourth of July fight card next year at the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Breaking News 🚨UFC has a new home in 2026 only on <a href="https://twitter.com/paramountplus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paramountplus</a> <a href="https://t.co/FUQjemPnBS">pic.twitter.com/FUQjemPnBS</a>&mdash; danawhite (@danawhite) <a href="https://twitter.com/danawhite/status/1954876574404366488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump said last month he wanted to stage a UFC match on the White House grounds with upwards of 20,000 spectators to celebrate 250 years of American independence.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“We’re going to have a UFC fight, think of this, on the grounds of the White House. We have a lot of land there. We&#39;re gonna build a little - Dana&#39;s gonna do it... Championship fight, full fight, like 20, 25,000 people. And we&#39;re going to do that as part of A250&quot; - Trump in Iowa <a href="https://t.co/5Dkam2IFWU">pic.twitter.com/5Dkam2IFWU</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1941078076903043230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“It’s absolutely going to happen,” White told The Associated Press. “Think about that, the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the UFC will be on the White House south lawn live on CBS.”The idea of cage fights at the White House would have seemed improbable when the Fertitta brothers purchased UFC for $2 million in 2001 and put White in charge of the fledging fight promotion.White helped steer the company into a $4 billion sale in 2016 and broadcast rights deals with Fox and ESPN before landing owner TKO Group’s richest one yet — a seven-year deal with Paramount starting in 2026 worth an average of $1.1 billion a year, with all cards on its streaming platform Paramount+ and select numbered events also set to simulcast on CBS.ESPN, Amazon and Netflix and other traditional sports broadcast players seemed more in play for UFC rights — White had previously hinted fights could air across different platforms — but Paramount was a serious contender from the start of the negotiating window.The Paramount and UFC deal came just days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paramount-skydance-media-cbs-trump-merger-a030c4f2c1903ed0e7f927782a64fcc0">Skydance</a>&nbsp;and Paramount officially closed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paramount-skydance-merger-fcc-approval-74836c0da9dc0b33f580f714a3f2bfbb">their $8 billion merger</a>&nbsp;— kicking off the reign of a new entertainment giant after a contentious endeavor to get the transaction over the finish line. White said he was impressed with the vision Skydance CEO David Ellison had for the the global MMA leader early in contract talks and how those plans should blossom now that Ellison is chairman and CEO of Paramount.“When you talk about Paramount, you talk about David Ellison, they’re brilliant businessmen, very aggressive, risk takers,” White said. “They’re right up my alley. These are the kind of guys that I like to be in business with.”The $1.1 billion deals marks a notable jump from the roughly $550 million that ESPN paid each year for UFC coverage today. But UFC’s new home on Paramount will simplify offerings for fans — with all content set to be available on Paramount+ (which currently costs between $7.99 and $12.99 a month), rather than various pay-per-view fees.Paramount also said it intends to explore UFC rights outside the U.S. “as they become available in the future.”UFC matchmakers were set to meet this week to shape what White said would be a loaded debut Paramount card. The UFC boss noted it was still too early to discuss a potential main event for the White House fight night.“This is a 1-of-1 event,” White said.There are still some moving parts to UFC broadcasts and other television programming it has its hands in as the company moves into the Paramount era. White said there are still moving parts to the deal and that includes potentially finding new homes for “The Ultimate Fighter,” “Road To UFC,” and “Dana White’s Contender Series.” It’s not necessarily a given the traditional 10 p.m. start time for what were the pay-per-view events would stand, especially on nights cards will also air on CBS.“We haven’t figured that out yet but we will,” White said.And what about the sometimes-contentious issue of fighter pay? Some established fighters have clauses in their contracts that they earn more money the higher the buyrate on their cards. Again, most of those issues are to-be-determined as UFC and Paramount settle in to the new deal — with $1.1 billion headed the fight company’s way.“It will affect fighter pay, big time,” White said. “From deal-to-deal, fighter pay has grown, too. Every time we win, everybody wins.”Boxer Jake Paul wrote on social media the dying PPV model — which was overpriced for fights as UFC saw a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mmamania.com/ufc-news/313759/report-ufc-suffered-lower-average-buys-per-event-after-already-bad-ppv-numbers-got-worse" target="_blank">decline in buys</a>&nbsp;because of missing star power in many main events — should give the fighters an increased idea of their worth.“Every fighter in the UFC now has a clear picture of what the revenue is...no more PPV excuses,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/jakepaul/status/1954907708437516708" target="_blank">Paul wrote</a>. “Get your worth boys and girls.”White also scoffed at the idea that the traditional PPV model is dead.There are still UFC cards on pay-per-view the rest of the year through the end of the ESPN contract and White and Saudi Arabia have teamed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ufc-wwe-saudi-boxing-tko-252c71058acb1aace5c763ea11c3d3c3">launch a new boxing venture</a>&nbsp;that starts next year and could use a PPV home. White, though, is part of the promotional team for the Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford fight in September in Las Vegas that airs on Netflix.“It’s definitely not run it’s course,” White said. “There were guys out there who were interested in pay-per-view and there were guys out there that weren’t. Wherever we ended up, that’s what we’re going to roll with.”White said UFC archival footage “kills it” in repeat views and those classic bouts also needed a new home once the ESPN deal expires.Just when it seems there’s little left for UFC to conquer, White says, there’s always more. Why stop at becoming the biggest fight game in the world? Why not rewrite the pecking order in popularity and riches and go for No. 1 in all sports?“You have the NFL, the NBA, the UFC, and soccer globally,” White said. “We’re coming. We’re coming for all of them.”

UFC fight at the White House? It’s happening as part of deal with Paramount

LOS ANGELES (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/television-programs-arts-and-entertainment-0f146e9747854c8094002fae40df05d5">Danielle Spencer,</a>&nbsp;who played the wisecracking and tattling little sister Dee Thomas on the 1970s sitcom “What's Happening!!” has died at 60.

Spencer, who became a veterinarian later in life, died Monday at a hospital in Richmond, Virginia, after a yearslong battle with cancer, family spokesperson Sandra Jones said.

As Dee, Spencer was the smarter, more serious younger sister who offered a steady stream of deadpan roasts of big brother Roger “Raj” Thomas and his friends Dwayne Nelson and Freddie “Rerun” Stubbs.

“Ooh, I’m gonna tell mama,” would become Dee's catchphrase.

The show, set in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Watts and among the first on television to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-los-angeles-sitcoms-arts-and-entertainment-race-and-ethnicity-29485334613f905bb8274ad7225e2e71">focus on the lives of Black teenagers,</a>&nbsp;was based on the movie “Cooley High” and ran on ABC from 1976 to 1979. It had a long legacy thanks to its memorable characters, including the geeky Raj, the catchphrase-spouting Dwayne, the red-bereted dancing phenom Rerun, and Dee with her eyerolls and icy stare.

Early in the production of the show's first season, Spencer, then 12, was in a major car accident on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, that left her in a coma for three weeks and killed her stepfather, Tim Pelt. She would have spinal and neurological problems that would require multiple surgeries in the years afterward.

Born in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in New York, Spencer began acting when she was about 9. “What's Happening!!” would be her first credited role.

“Imagine being plucked from obscurity to star in a TV show,” she told Jet magazine in 2014. “I had never seen any young Black girl in that type of spotlight, so I didn’t have a reference point in the media as to how to deal with this opportunity. I was from the Bronx.”

Haywood Nelson, who played Dwayne on the show, paid tribute Tuesday to “Dr. Dee, our brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior.”

“We have lost a daughter, sister, family member, ‘What’s Happening’ cast member, veterinarian animal rights proponent and healer, and cancer heroine. Our Shero,” Nelson said on Instagram. “Danielle is loved.”

Spencer also appeared on a mid-1980s reboot of the show, “What’s Happening Now!!,” which ran for three seasons.

In 2018, she had emergency surgery for a bleeding hematoma, which stemmed from that 1977 car crash. In the immediate aftermath, a family spokesperson said she could only speak slightly and had to use crutches to walk. She had been suffering symptoms from at least 2004, when she had to use a wheelchair and relearn how to walk. In 2014, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a double mastectomy.

She went on to become a veterinarian and advocate for animals. She attended the University of California, Davis, and UCLA, and got a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Tuskegee University in 1993.

Spencer continued to dabble in acting in her later years, including an appearance as a veterinarian in the 1997 Jack Nicholson film “As Good as it Gets.”

She is survived by her brother, musician Jeremy Pelt, and her mother, Cheryl Pelt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755035737737.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/television-programs-arts-and-entertainment-0f146e9747854c8094002fae40df05d5">Danielle Spencer,</a>&nbsp;who played the wisecracking and tattling little sister Dee Thomas on the 1970s sitcom “What's Happening!!” has died at 60.Spencer, who became a veterinarian later in life, died Monday at a hospital in Richmond, Virginia, after a yearslong battle with cancer, family spokesperson Sandra Jones said.As Dee, Spencer was the smarter, more serious younger sister who offered a steady stream of deadpan roasts of big brother Roger “Raj” Thomas and his friends Dwayne Nelson and Freddie “Rerun” Stubbs.“Ooh, I’m gonna tell mama,” would become Dee's catchphrase.The show, set in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Watts and among the first on television to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-los-angeles-sitcoms-arts-and-entertainment-race-and-ethnicity-29485334613f905bb8274ad7225e2e71">focus on the lives of Black teenagers,</a>&nbsp;was based on the movie “Cooley High” and ran on ABC from 1976 to 1979. It had a long legacy thanks to its memorable characters, including the geeky Raj, the catchphrase-spouting Dwayne, the red-bereted dancing phenom Rerun, and Dee with her eyerolls and icy stare.Early in the production of the show's first season, Spencer, then 12, was in a major car accident on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, that left her in a coma for three weeks and killed her stepfather, Tim Pelt. She would have spinal and neurological problems that would require multiple surgeries in the years afterward.Born in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in New York, Spencer began acting when she was about 9. “What's Happening!!” would be her first credited role.“Imagine being plucked from obscurity to star in a TV show,” she told Jet magazine in 2014. “I had never seen any young Black girl in that type of spotlight, so I didn’t have a reference point in the media as to how to deal with this opportunity. I was from the Bronx.”Haywood Nelson, who played Dwayne on the show, paid tribute Tuesday to “Dr. Dee, our brilliant, loving, positive, pragmatic warrior.”“We have lost a daughter, sister, family member, ‘What’s Happening’ cast member, veterinarian animal rights proponent and healer, and cancer heroine. Our Shero,” Nelson said on Instagram. “Danielle is loved.”Spencer also appeared on a mid-1980s reboot of the show, “What’s Happening Now!!,” which ran for three seasons.In 2018, she had emergency surgery for a bleeding hematoma, which stemmed from that 1977 car crash. In the immediate aftermath, a family spokesperson said she could only speak slightly and had to use crutches to walk. She had been suffering symptoms from at least 2004, when she had to use a wheelchair and relearn how to walk. In 2014, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a double mastectomy.She went on to become a veterinarian and advocate for animals. She attended the University of California, Davis, and UCLA, and got a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Tuskegee University in 1993.Spencer continued to dabble in acting in her later years, including an appearance as a veterinarian in the 1997 Jack Nicholson film “As Good as it Gets.”She is survived by her brother, musician Jeremy Pelt, and her mother, Cheryl Pelt.