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

GARDEN CITY — The front doors of Garden City Regional Airport’s new terminal howl in high winds, providing a spooky soundtrack during blustery autumn days.

The airport’s director, Rachelle Powell, said that’s one of a few kinks workers will smooth out as airport employees prepare for holiday travel season at the recently constructed terminal building. Kansas Reflector received a tour of the new terminal earlier in October.

The original airport terminal was built in 1959 to serve passengers in southwest Kansas, as well as southeast Colorado and the Oklahoma-Texas panhandles. It was demolished in September. The next phase included building a new terminal featuring an in-house restaurant facility, updated check-in counter, revamped departure gate and restyled waiting lounges.

Passengers can fly from Garden City to Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, via American Airlines flights serviced twice daily on a 65-seat jet. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.aa.com/">www.aa.com</a>. Additionally, the airport receives a Boeing 737 from Harrah’s Casinos that charters flights to Laughlin, Nev., for people to gamble.

“The reaction from the community following the opening of Phase 1 has been very positive,” Garden City city manager Matt Allen said. “This is a very large, high-profile project for our city.”

The $31 million project was funded partly through a sales tax measure passed by Garden City voters in November 2021. Allen said voters approved a .15% sales tax bump for 15 years to help pay off about $9 million worth of construction. Additionally, city officials received roughly $22 million in federal funds, both from the Federal Aviation Administration and the CARES Act. Kansas City-based architecture firm HNTB and Crossland Construction of Garden City were chosen to design and build the project.

Powell said a total commercial ridership of about 59,000 people last year, both departing and arriving, warranted a new terminal.

“All the research we did, … FAA forecast data models and everything, supported the new airport,” Powell said.

City officials also realized demand had outgrown the 1959 terminal. City commissioners placed a high priority on upgrading facilities “to be more reflective of the service the airport provides to western Kansas and the five-state region,” Allen said.

Powell said about 28,000 people are forecast to fly out of GCK Regional by the end of the year. Airport ridership has grown from 18,375 departing passengers in 2018 to 29,186 in 2022.

Phase 2 of construction is underway and includes a second departure gate, full restrooms for arrivals, a service animal relief area, a luggage carousel and rental car booths. The arrival and departure lounges were expanded to accommodate larger groups.

“One unique thing about western Kansas airports is you don’t just fly out by yourself,” Powell said. “Your mom and dad and sister and aunt all send you away, so we wanted to accommodate that space for some of our people sending their loved ones off or coming to greet them.”

Powell is still waiting for a full body imaging scanner provided by the Transportation Safety Administration to complete the check-in area. She anticipates the second phase of work to be completed by mid-2024. That schedule gives city officials time to review proposals for leasing restaurant space inside the terminal. The former airport building housed Napoli’s Italian Restaurant for more than a decade before the restaurant’s owners moved to a location in Garden City last year.

On March 23, 2022, Napoli’s owners posted to Facebook: “Come and enjoy peaceful dining at the airport you only have 3 more weeks out here to enjoy this atmosphere because we will be closing down on April 16.”

The restaurant space was first to be demolished. Napoli’s is now located at 2204 East Kansas Ave. #5 in Garden City.

Proposals for the new airport restaurant must include a menu, hours of operation, plus rent and catering information. Applications can be filed at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.garden-city.org/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/2337/410">City of Garden City website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698853363942.png" alt="Garden City Regional Airport maintenance worker Jacob Ochampaugh sweeps the floors of the new departure gate. The airport terminal was revamped this year, as airport officials expect increased ridership. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Garden City Regional Airport maintenance worker Jacob Ochampaugh sweeps the floors of the new departure gate. The airport terminal was revamped this year, as airport officials expect increased ridership. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — The front doors of Garden City Regional Airport’s new terminal howl in high winds, providing a spooky soundtrack during blustery autumn days.The airport’s director, Rachelle Powell, said that’s one of a few kinks workers will smooth out as airport employees prepare for holiday travel season at the recently constructed terminal building. Kansas Reflector received a tour of the new terminal earlier in October.The original airport terminal was built in 1959 to serve passengers in southwest Kansas, as well as southeast Colorado and the Oklahoma-Texas panhandles. It was demolished in September. The next phase included building a new terminal featuring an in-house restaurant facility, updated check-in counter, revamped departure gate and restyled waiting lounges.Passengers can fly from Garden City to Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, via American Airlines flights serviced twice daily on a 65-seat jet. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.aa.com/">www.aa.com</a>. Additionally, the airport receives a Boeing 737 from Harrah’s Casinos that charters flights to Laughlin, Nev., for people to gamble.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698853403837.png" alt="The new facade of the Garden City Regional Airport was unveiled in early October. Voters in Garden City approved a 0.15% sales tax boost to pay for $9 million of the $31 million project. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The new facade of the Garden City Regional Airport was unveiled in early October. Voters in Garden City approved a 0.15% sales tax boost to pay for $9 million of the $31 million project. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“The reaction from the community following the opening of Phase 1 has been very positive,” Garden City city manager Matt Allen said. “This is a very large, high-profile project for our city.”The $31 million project was funded partly through a sales tax measure passed by Garden City voters in November 2021. Allen said voters approved a .15% sales tax bump for 15 years to help pay off about $9 million worth of construction. Additionally, city officials received roughly $22 million in federal funds, both from the Federal Aviation Administration and the CARES Act. Kansas City-based architecture firm HNTB and Crossland Construction of Garden City were chosen to design and build the project.Powell said a total commercial ridership of about 59,000 people last year, both departing and arriving, warranted a new terminal.“All the research we did, … FAA forecast data models and everything, supported the new airport,” Powell said.City officials also realized demand had outgrown the 1959 terminal. City commissioners placed a high priority on upgrading facilities “to be more reflective of the service the airport provides to western Kansas and the five-state region,” Allen said.Powell said about 28,000 people are forecast to fly out of GCK Regional by the end of the year. Airport ridership has grown from 18,375 departing passengers in 2018 to 29,186 in 2022.Phase 2 of construction is underway and includes a second departure gate, full restrooms for arrivals, a service animal relief area, a luggage carousel and rental car booths. The arrival and departure lounges were expanded to accommodate larger groups.“One unique thing about western Kansas airports is you don’t just fly out by yourself,” Powell said. “Your mom and dad and sister and aunt all send you away, so we wanted to accommodate that space for some of our people sending their loved ones off or coming to greet them.”Powell is still waiting for a full body imaging scanner provided by the Transportation Safety Administration to complete the check-in area. She anticipates the second phase of work to be completed by mid-2024. That schedule gives city officials time to review proposals for leasing restaurant space inside the terminal. The former airport building housed Napoli’s Italian Restaurant for more than a decade before the restaurant’s owners moved to a location in Garden City last year.On March 23, 2022, Napoli’s owners posted to Facebook: “Come and enjoy peaceful dining at the airport you only have 3 more weeks out here to enjoy this atmosphere because we will be closing down on April 16.”The restaurant space was first to be demolished. Napoli’s is now located at 2204 East Kansas Ave. #5 in Garden City.Proposals for the new airport restaurant must include a menu, hours of operation, plus rent and catering information. Applications can be filed at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.garden-city.org/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/2337/410">City of Garden City website</a>.

New Garden City Regional Airport terminal opens ahead of holiday travel season

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal 2-vehicle crash just after noon Monday in Shawnee County have made an arrest.

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

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

As a result of the investigation, police arrested 38-year-old Michael S. Lester, 38, of Topeka on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree; In the commission of a felony, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving,&nbsp; Speeding;maximum Limits, Reckless Driving; Unknown Conviction, Driving On Left Side of Roadway, Driving On Left In No-Passing Zone, Fail To Stop At Stop Sign, Driving While License Suspended; Misd and Fail To Stop At Accident;known To Result In Death

Police are investigating this incident as a homicide. This is the 33rd homicide in Topeka in 2023, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698794900027.png" alt="Lester-photo Shawnee County." />
 <figcaption>Lester-photo Shawnee County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal 2-vehicle crash just after noon Monday in Shawnee County have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698703321792.png" alt="Police near the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police near the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp; crash occurred&nbsp;&nbsp;near NW St. John Street&nbsp; and NW Tyler Street in Topeka, according to Topeka police department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Emergency crews transported 33-year-old&nbsp;Alycia A. Noriega of Topeka to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She died late Monday afternoon, according to police.As a result of the investigation, police arrested 38-year-old Michael S. Lester, 38, of Topeka on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree; In the commission of a felony, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving,&nbsp; Speeding;maximum Limits, Reckless Driving; Unknown Conviction, Driving On Left Side of Roadway, Driving On Left In No-Passing Zone, Fail To Stop At Stop Sign, Driving While License Suspended; Misd and Fail To Stop At Accident;known To Result In DeathPolice are investigating this incident as a homicide. This is the 33rd homicide in Topeka in 2023, according to police.

Homicide: Man accused in 2-car crash that killed Kan. woman

WASHINGTON (AP)— FBI Director Christopher Wray said Tuesday that multiple foreign extremist groups have called for attacks against Americans and the West in the past few weeks and suggested Hamas’ attack on Israel could inspire threats like those motivated by the Islamic State group years ago.

“We assess that the actions of Hamas and its allies will serve as an inspiration the likes of which we haven’t seen since ISIS launched its so-called caliphate years ago,” Wray testified before a U.S. Senate committee.

Wray said the FBI isn’t currently tracking an “organized threat” in the U.S., but law enforcement is concerned about the war unfolding in the Middle East inspiring individual people or small groups to attack Americans in their daily lives.

The FBI expects cyber targeting of American interests and infrastructure, as well as the threat of other attacks, to get worse as the conflict expands, he said.

“It is a time to be concerned. We are in a dangerous period,” Wray said. “We shouldn’t stop going out but should be vigilant.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698801431220.png" alt="FBI Director Christopher Wray during Tuesday's hearing -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>FBI Director Christopher Wray during Tuesday's hearing -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)— FBI Director Christopher Wray said Tuesday that multiple foreign extremist groups have called for attacks against Americans and the West in the past few weeks and suggested Hamas’ attack on Israel could inspire threats like those motivated by the Islamic State group years ago.“We assess that the actions of Hamas and its allies will serve as an inspiration the likes of which we haven’t seen since ISIS launched its so-called caliphate years ago,” Wray testified before a U.S. Senate committee.Wray said the FBI isn’t currently tracking an “organized threat” in the U.S., but law enforcement is concerned about the war unfolding in the Middle East inspiring individual people or small groups to attack Americans in their daily lives.The FBI expects cyber targeting of American interests and infrastructure, as well as the threat of other attacks, to get worse as the conflict expands, he said.“It is a time to be concerned. We are in a dangerous period,” Wray said. “We shouldn’t stop going out but should be vigilant.”

 FBI warns: Terror threat in U.S. at whole other level

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 501 officials are investigating an alleged school threat against a Kansas high school.

Just after 11p.m. Monday, the&nbsp;USD 501 Topeka Public Schools Police Department notified investigators from the Topeka Police Department&nbsp; of a threat made about a school shooting at Topeka West High School. 

Investigators were quick to identify and locate a 15-year-old who made the threat. Police arrested the girl&nbsp;and booked her into the Juvenile Detention Center on requested charges of Aggravated Criminal Threat. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573757762937.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 501 officials are investigating an alleged school threat against a Kansas high school.Just after 11p.m. Monday, the&nbsp;USD 501 Topeka Public Schools Police Department notified investigators from the Topeka Police Department&nbsp; of a threat made about a school shooting at Topeka West High School. Investigators were quick to identify and locate a 15-year-old who made the threat. Police arrested the girl&nbsp;and booked her into the Juvenile Detention Center on requested charges of Aggravated Criminal Threat.

Police: 15-year-old girl threatened shooting at Kansas high school

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating how a grenade was placed in a donation box at a Goodwill store in Wichita.

Just after 1:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched on a report of a suspicions device found at the Goodwill on S. Rock Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders learned a grenade had been found inside the donation bin. Officers implemented safety measures and the immediate area was evacuated.

The Wichita&nbsp; Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit was called to the scene. They located the grenade and deemed it safe and took the grenade to be further examined. 

The business was reopened shortly after the grenade was removed. There were no injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698770700633.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Monday-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Monday-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating how a grenade was placed in a donation box at a Goodwill store in Wichita.Just after 1:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched on a report of a suspicions device found at the Goodwill on S. Rock Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders learned a grenade had been found inside the donation bin. Officers implemented safety measures and the immediate area was evacuated.The Wichita&nbsp; Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit was called to the scene. They located the grenade and deemed it safe and took the grenade to be further examined. The business was reopened shortly after the grenade was removed. There were no injuries reported.

How did a grenade get into a donation box at Kan. Goodwill store?

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall demanded answers from Department of Homeland Secretary (DHS) Alejandro Mayorkas on the Biden administration’s failures to secure our nation’s borders ranging from the historic number of migrant crossings on the FBI Terrorist Watchlist, and the lack of urgency from this administration to get Congress answers to who and where these people are inside of our country. 

During&nbsp; the hearing Senator Marshall asked Mayorcas, “Approximately how many illegal aliens in this country who are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, the Islamic Jihad, or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?” The Secretary dodged the question

The Secretary did confirm over 600,000 known 'gotaways' entered our country in 2023 alone.

Highlights from Senator Marshall’s questioning includes:

On Illegal Aliens with ties to terrorist organization:&nbsp;

Mr. Secretary, approximately how many illegal aliens in this country are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas to Hezbollah, to the Islamic Jihad or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator Marshall, let me assure you that the individuals that pose a risk to our national security are our highest enforcement priority, the safety and security of the American public

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you have any idea how many numbers, what those numbers are? Is that tens? Is it hundreds? Is it thousands?&nbsp;

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;An individual who poses a risk to our national security is our highest enforcement priority..

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you don't know the answer to the question? Do you have an answer for my question?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe I have answered your question.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;No, sir. You didn't. I asked you how many have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, Islam jihad.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Will DHS and when will DHS disclose the countries of origin of people arrested by border patrol on the terrorist watch list?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;If you are referring, Senator, to the Terrorist Screening dataset, just to be precise, I would be pleased to speak with you in the appropriate context. This would not be it.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;How many ‘gotaways’ did CBP record in fiscal year 2023?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe, Senator, that number is over 600,000. And as I'm sure you are well aware, the phenomenon of ‘gotaways’ is something that has been a challenge for the Department of Homeland Security for decades…

On Chinese National’s crossings:&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Would you agree with me that over 18,000 Chinese nationals, many are military-aged young men, have illegally crossed the southern border in fiscal year 2023?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, I don't have the precise number…

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you know where the Chinese nationals are settling? Where are they working? Why they are here? How do you follow them?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, if an individual has fled China, and seeks asylum and qualifies for asylum, for example, if they fear persecution, an understanding of their membership in a particular social group…

Senator Marshall: I'm sure you'll agree with me that under Mr. Biden, that at least 1.7 million ‘gotaways’ have evaded apprehension at our border. How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have convictions in their entire country for rape or murder? How many of these known ‘gotaways’ had been prosecuted and deported?

How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have committed crimes in the United States since you were sworn in?

How many of these known ‘gotaways’ are trafficking fentanyl?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We well know that the trafficking of fentanyl is not specific to a nationality - tragically, we have individuals from various countries of origin. We have American citizens trafficking in fentanyl. Fentanyl is a scourge that we must all work together to overcome.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Let's talk about the 169 individuals encountered on the terrorist watchlist between the ports of entry in fiscal year 2023. How many were deported? How many are jailed? How many are still in the country?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator, with respect to the individuals on the Terrorist Screening dataset, I would be pleased to provide you with the numbers in the appropriate context.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The over 75,000 Special Interest aliens who crossed our border illegally this fiscal year. What are their whereabouts? How are you tracking these people?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We have a number of ways of tracking them, Senator if in fact, they present a national security or public safety threat, we very well may detain them. If we do not believe that detention is appropriate. We have alternatives to detention.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The folks back home when they look at the evidence, they see that the DEA seized over 380 million doses of fentanyl in 2022. 73,000 Americans died from fentanyl poisoning in 2022. Mostly young adults, school aged children. And that 90% of the fentanyl&nbsp; comes from our southern border. You know considering that just last month, our border patrol had almost 270,000 encounters including 75,000 special interest aliens. Do Americans feel they're more safe today or less safe today under the policies of this administration?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, we are taking it to the cartels, to the traffickers of fentanyl, in an unprecedented way with more resources and more efficient and productive operations than ever before.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;But you would agree with me that Americans feel less safe today than they did before the start of this administration. And your testimony has solidified the view that American people they don't have confidence in the job that you're doing. This is why I believe the defining issue in this next election is going to be exactly this. Are our families safer today than they were three years ago?&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In April, in sworn testimony before this committee, you insisted and I'll quote you, “If somebody errantly sends me an email on my personal email that should have been sent to my work email, I forwarded to my work email…” Despite that, a FOIA lawsuit by Americans for Prosperity has uncovered hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal use of personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business since you assumed the office of Secretary. We sent you a letter on July 13, asking for additional questions on your in your suborders adherence to this DHS policy on the use of non DHS emails, but thus far, you failed to respond to me. Will you commit to getting the answers to our letter?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I'll be happy to look at your inquiry and respond accordingly. What you just articulated is perfect evidence of the fact that I have followed the rules.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;And that explains why there's hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, you mistake the facts.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In May, the Biden Administration said when Title 42 ended that migrants would face tougher consequences. And I quote, “that there are tougher consequences if they were caught crossing the border illegally.” But just in the last border crossing numbers from this past week, the Biden Administration's actions showed that border patrol released. with no consequences, 156,000 migrants into the U.S. in September alone. Mr. Secretary, what are the consequences your administration threatens?&nbsp;

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Removal and return of individuals under Title Eight of the United States Code is one example of a consequence that we deliver. In fact, in fiscal year 2023, we removed or returned more than 620,000 individuals. Just recently, we announced that we negotiated an agreement with Venezuela for the first time.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you sent back 10 maybe 200 people, but there's tens of thousands of them still here. How do you explain the 156,000 migrants in September alone that were released without any consequences?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:: That is incorrect.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you didn't release 156,000 migrants into the United States?

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall demanded answers from Department of Homeland Secretary (DHS) Alejandro Mayorkas on the Biden administration’s failures to secure our nation’s borders ranging from the historic number of migrant crossings on the FBI Terrorist Watchlist, and the lack of urgency from this administration to get Congress answers to who and where these people are inside of our country. During&nbsp; the hearing Senator Marshall asked Mayorcas, “Approximately how many illegal aliens in this country who are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, the Islamic Jihad, or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?” The Secretary dodged the question<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🚨Secretary Mayorkas confirmed OVER 600,000 known gotaways entered our country in 2023 alone. <a href="https://t.co/6eAPerWasN">pic.twitter.com/6eAPerWasN</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1719399077970841728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Secretary did confirm over 600,000 known 'gotaways' entered our country in 2023 alone.Highlights from Senator Marshall’s questioning includes:On Illegal Aliens with ties to terrorist organization:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Mr. Secretary, approximately how many illegal aliens in this country are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas to Hezbollah, to the Islamic Jihad or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator Marshall, let me assure you that the individuals that pose a risk to our national security are our highest enforcement priority, the safety and security of the American publicSenator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you have any idea how many numbers, what those numbers are? Is that tens? Is it hundreds? Is it thousands?&nbsp;Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;An individual who poses a risk to our national security is our highest enforcement priority..Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you don't know the answer to the question? Do you have an answer for my question?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe I have answered your question.&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;No, sir. You didn't. I asked you how many have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, Islam jihad.On the Terror Watch List:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Will DHS and when will DHS disclose the countries of origin of people arrested by border patrol on the terrorist watch list?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;If you are referring, Senator, to the Terrorist Screening dataset, just to be precise, I would be pleased to speak with you in the appropriate context. This would not be it.On Known Gotaways:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;How many ‘gotaways’ did CBP record in fiscal year 2023?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe, Senator, that number is over 600,000. And as I'm sure you are well aware, the phenomenon of ‘gotaways’ is something that has been a challenge for the Department of Homeland Security for decades…On Chinese National’s crossings:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Would you agree with me that over 18,000 Chinese nationals, many are military-aged young men, have illegally crossed the southern border in fiscal year 2023?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, I don't have the precise number…Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you know where the Chinese nationals are settling? Where are they working? Why they are here? How do you follow them?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, if an individual has fled China, and seeks asylum and qualifies for asylum, for example, if they fear persecution, an understanding of their membership in a particular social group…On Known ‘Gotaways’:&nbsp;Senator Marshall: I'm sure you'll agree with me that under Mr. Biden, that at least 1.7 million ‘gotaways’ have evaded apprehension at our border. How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have convictions in their entire country for rape or murder? How many of these known ‘gotaways’ had been prosecuted and deported?How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have committed crimes in the United States since you were sworn in?How many of these known ‘gotaways’ are trafficking fentanyl?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We well know that the trafficking of fentanyl is not specific to a nationality - tragically, we have individuals from various countries of origin. We have American citizens trafficking in fentanyl. Fentanyl is a scourge that we must all work together to overcome.On Terror Watchlist:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Let's talk about the 169 individuals encountered on the terrorist watchlist between the ports of entry in fiscal year 2023. How many were deported? How many are jailed? How many are still in the country?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator, with respect to the individuals on the Terrorist Screening dataset, I would be pleased to provide you with the numbers in the appropriate context.On Safety of America:Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The over 75,000 Special Interest aliens who crossed our border illegally this fiscal year. What are their whereabouts? How are you tracking these people?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We have a number of ways of tracking them, Senator if in fact, they present a national security or public safety threat, we very well may detain them. If we do not believe that detention is appropriate. We have alternatives to detention.&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The folks back home when they look at the evidence, they see that the DEA seized over 380 million doses of fentanyl in 2022. 73,000 Americans died from fentanyl poisoning in 2022. Mostly young adults, school aged children. And that 90% of the fentanyl&nbsp; comes from our southern border. You know considering that just last month, our border patrol had almost 270,000 encounters including 75,000 special interest aliens. Do Americans feel they're more safe today or less safe today under the policies of this administration?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, we are taking it to the cartels, to the traffickers of fentanyl, in an unprecedented way with more resources and more efficient and productive operations than ever before.Senator Marshall:&nbsp;But you would agree with me that Americans feel less safe today than they did before the start of this administration. And your testimony has solidified the view that American people they don't have confidence in the job that you're doing. This is why I believe the defining issue in this next election is going to be exactly this. Are our families safer today than they were three years ago?&nbsp;On DHS Emails:Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In April, in sworn testimony before this committee, you insisted and I'll quote you, “If somebody errantly sends me an email on my personal email that should have been sent to my work email, I forwarded to my work email…” Despite that, a FOIA lawsuit by Americans for Prosperity has uncovered hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal use of personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business since you assumed the office of Secretary. We sent you a letter on July 13, asking for additional questions on your in your suborders adherence to this DHS policy on the use of non DHS emails, but thus far, you failed to respond to me. Will you commit to getting the answers to our letter?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I'll be happy to look at your inquiry and respond accordingly. What you just articulated is perfect evidence of the fact that I have followed the rules.Senator Marshall:&nbsp;And that explains why there's hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, you mistake the facts.On Securing the Border:Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In May, the Biden Administration said when Title 42 ended that migrants would face tougher consequences. And I quote, “that there are tougher consequences if they were caught crossing the border illegally.” But just in the last border crossing numbers from this past week, the Biden Administration's actions showed that border patrol released. with no consequences, 156,000 migrants into the U.S. in September alone. Mr. Secretary, what are the consequences your administration threatens?&nbsp;Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Removal and return of individuals under Title Eight of the United States Code is one example of a consequence that we deliver. In fact, in fiscal year 2023, we removed or returned more than 620,000 individuals. Just recently, we announced that we negotiated an agreement with Venezuela for the first time.Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you sent back 10 maybe 200 people, but there's tens of thousands of them still here. How do you explain the 156,000 migrants in September alone that were released without any consequences?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:: That is incorrect.&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you didn't release 156,000 migrants into the United States?

🎥 Senator Marshall: DHS Sec. says 600K known 'gotaways' at the border

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating separate deaths of two woman in the Kansas City metro over the weekend have identified one of those who died.

Just before 9a.m. Sunday, detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department responded to report of a death in the 700 block of Minnesota Avenue. First responders discovered 73-year-old Doanna Stith a resident of Odessa, Missouri outside who was pronounced deceased at the scene.

After further investigation and an autopsy, detectives have determined that there was no foul play involved in this case but rather a medical condition that resulted in her death.

On Saturday, police responded to a medical call, suspicious death in the&nbsp;4000 block of  E. 56th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found a woman&nbsp;deceased inside an apartment. Detectives believe the death is likely not from natural causes. Police have released no additional deaths on this investigation.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating separate deaths of two woman in the Kansas City metro over the weekend have identified one of those who died.Just before 9a.m. Sunday, detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department responded to report of a death in the 700 block of Minnesota Avenue. First responders discovered 73-year-old Doanna Stith a resident of Odessa, Missouri outside who was pronounced deceased at the scene.After further investigation and an autopsy, detectives have determined that there was no foul play involved in this case but rather a medical condition that resulted in her death.On Saturday, police responded to a medical call, suspicious death in the&nbsp;4000 block of E. 56th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found a woman&nbsp;deceased inside an apartment. Detectives believe the death is likely not from natural causes. Police have released no additional deaths on this investigation.

Police ID woman found dead outside Kansas home

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The hit to the pavement caused the officer to become disoriented

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Woman who punched officer wanted to kill Kan. jail inmate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ashcroft said he plans to appeal the ruling.

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

Abortion-rights proponents lauded the Tuesday ruling.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

🎥Protestors interrupt Senate hearing on funding for Israel 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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