With Christmas approaching and more families considering a puppy or kitten as the season’s big surprise, the veterinarians at Apple Lane Animal Hospital are urging Reno County residents to think carefully before adding a new pet to the household.

During a recent visit to KWBW’s Morning Show, veterinarians Dr. Erica Miller and Dr. Logan Druecker said the holiday season consistently leads to an increase in surrendered animals, largely because pets were purchased impulsively without family discussion or long-term planning.

“Everyone loves the idea of a child opening a box and finding a puppy,” Miller said. “But families need to talk about what that truly means—time commitments, lifestyle, travel, veterinary care, feeding, training. It’s not something to decide because you walked past a cute litter.”

Shelters tend to report a spike in intake early each year, often from animals bought during the holidays. Miller said families should determine who will be responsible for feeding, exercise, cleaning, and training, noting that children should never be the sole caretakers.

Druecker added that breed choices matter more than many people realize. High-energy or working breeds can struggle in smaller homes or apartments if their exercise needs aren’t fully met. “You’ve got to match your lifestyle to the dog,” he said. “A hunting breed isn’t meant for a studio apartment. And a Great Dane isn’t ideal for someone gone 12 hours a day.”

Both veterinarians also encouraged families to consider adopting from rescues and shelters. “There are outstanding animals waiting for homes, especially after the holidays,” Miller said. “They deserve the same love and companionship as any designer puppy.”

The Apple Lane team emphasized the importance of early veterinary appointments. Many breeder-sold pets come home without a full set of vaccinations, making an initial checkup essential.

Food choice is another major consideration for new pet owners. While TV commercials and trendy packaging may drive sales, Miller said price and appearance don’t guarantee nutritional quality. “Pet food companies have become incredibly skilled at marketing,” she said. “Your veterinarian—not the ads—should guide nutrition decisions for your pet.”

Both veterinarians encouraged new owners to microchip their pets and update the information anytime they move. Lost animals are far more likely to return home when registered correctly.

Apple Lane Animal Hospital is now fully staffed for the first time in years, with the addition of Dr. Druecker and new registered veterinary technician Taryn, along with several new assistants. “We are fully capable and ready to serve,” Miller said.

Apple Lane Animal Hospital is located near 30th and Apple Lane in east Hutchinson. Appointments can be made by calling 620-662-0515.

Veterinarians warn pet shoppers to plan first, not after

MCPHERSON COUNTY —Law enforcement in McPherson are investigating alleged child abuse and have made two arrests including a school teacher.

On Thursday morning, police in McPherson arrested 36-year-old Abby Bradstreet, an elementary school teacher in USD 418 McPherson, on requested charges of attempted aggravated endangering a chid; reckless situation involving a child under age 18 and abuse of a child; knowingly torture/cruelly beat; strike; kick a child between the age of 6 and 18, according to online jail records. Just after 12:30p.m. Thursday, Bradstreet, met the requirement of a $12,500 bond and was released, according to online jail records.

On Thursday afternoon, police also arrested 26-year-old Brady Burr, an employee of the McPherson Fire Department, on requested charges of aggravated endangering a child; reckless situation to a child under the age of 18 and for abuse of a child; knowingly torture/cruelly beat; strike; kick a child between the age of 6 and 18, according to online jail records. Burr was&nbsp;released 90 minutes after his arrest after he met the requirement of a $12,500 bond, according to online jail records.

Police released no additional details. The McPherson County Attorney will determine formal charges against them.

McPherson teacher, firefighter among two accused of child abuse

Reno County Toys for Tots Drive Sets Record in 25th Year

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The 25th Annual Toys for Tots Drive in Reno County has set a new record, thanks to widespread community support and participation from local agencies, businesses and residents.

The Reno County District Attorney’s Office, along with its community partners, announced that this year’s drive collected a record 33 boxes of toys, exceeding all expectations and ensuring hundreds of local children will have a brighter Christmas.

In total, organizers reported the collection of 1,376 toys and one bicycle, along with $40 in cash donations. In addition to toys, donors also contributed a significant number of cold-weather items to help children stay warm during the winter months. Those items included 140 knit hats, four earmuffs, 17 sets of gloves, eight hat-and-glove sets, six blankets and one pair of socks.

“This is what community looks like,” the District Attorney’s Office said in a statement, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the drive’s success.

Several departments and community partners played a major role in the record-breaking effort. Contributions by participating groups included:

Organizers said every donation made a meaningful difference and helped ensure children across Reno County feel supported and experience the joy of the holiday season.

The Reno County District Attorney’s Office thanked all participants for their generosity and continued support of the Toys for Tots program, calling this year’s drive one of the most successful in its 25-year history.

Reno County Toys for Tots drive sets record in 25th year

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

Jose	Alvino	Castaneda	12/12/2025 9:13&nbsp;AM	DUI; 1st; comp ev blood/breath .08+; child pres

Jay	J	White	12/12/2025 10:38&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Christopher	Cody	Hardesty	12/12/2025 12:45&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

CharleeAnn		Dailing	12/12/2025 12:54&nbsp;PM	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

Mya	Joelene	Tate	12/12/2025 1:00&nbsp;PM	Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (2nd conviction in 5 yrs)

Dominque	Michelle	Hamm	12/12/2025 2:01&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Miguel	Angel	Molina	12/12/2025 2:53&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

David	James	Williamson	12/12/2025 3:53&nbsp;PM	Criminal Trespass; Defiance of Restraining Order

Arthur	Lee	Adams	12/12/2025 4:30&nbsp;PM	Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Felony case,				Distribute heroin/certain stim/fent;3.5 - &lt;100grams,				Drugs; Distribute of Depressant designated in 65-4105e, 4107b, 4107c, 4111b; 10 to &lt; 100 dosage units,				Drugs; Distribute Marijuana or Analog thereof; 25g to &lt; 450g,				Possession of Parapernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance

Laci	Dawn	Ring	12/12/2025 6:21&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Brittany	Nicole	Holt	12/12/2025 7:02&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear,				Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999

Jeffrey	Dean	YBarra	12/12/2025 8:11&nbsp;PM	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant, Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,				Possession of marijuana

Gerald Gonzalez 12/13/2025 4:17 AM&nbsp;DL Violation; No Drivers License,&nbsp;Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance, Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misdemeanor case, Execution of Misdemeanor Warrant,&nbsp;DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving,&nbsp;Possession of a Firearm Under the Influence,&nbsp;Battery on LEO; Phys contact county/city LEO



Daily Bookings

McPHERSON, Kan. — The City of McPherson and the McPherson Fire Department have confirmed the arrest of one of the department’s firefighters and say the matter is under review.

In a brief statement released Friday, Fire Chief Chad Mayberry said city officials are aware of the situation and are “diligently reviewing the matter.” The city declined to provide additional details, citing personnel policies.

“At this time, the City of McPherson will not comment on personnel matters,” the statement said. “The City of McPherson and the MFD take these allegations very seriously, as public safety is the highest priority.”

No information was released regarding the nature of the arrest, the charges involved, or the firefighter’s employment status. City officials said there will be no further comment at this time.

McPherson firefighter arrested; city reviewing matter

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.Info forecas</a>t

Three-day outlook

The Salvation Army of Reno County is asking for renewed community support as this year’s Red Kettle Campaign trails behind its fundraising pace with just days remaining before Christmas.

Major Paul James of the Salvation Army joined the BW Morning Show this week to discuss the campaign’s progress, noting that donations are down compared to previous years. He said a stretch of cold weather earlier in the season likely kept both shoppers and volunteer bell ringers at home, contributing to the shortfall.

“We’ve seen an uptick on nicer days, but we’re still behind,” James said. “We have about $44,646 to go, and we’re entering the heart of our 12 Days of Ringing. There’s still time, but it’s limited.”

The local Red Kettle goal stands at $85,000, while the Salvation Army’s overall annual fundraising target is $300,000. James said the organization is currently about $50,000 behind where it typically would be at this point in the season.

In addition to monetary donations, James emphasized the ongoing need for volunteer bell ringers. While volunteers cover many shifts, the Salvation Army also relies on paid ringers to fill gaps, increasing overall campaign costs.

“Ringing bells is actually a pleasant experience,” James said. “You meet people, you spread joy, and sometimes you can make someone’s day better just by being there.”

This year’s volunteer incentive has also changed. Instead of previous giveaways, the Salvation Army has launched “Ring for Bling,” a new drawing made possible through a donation from Westphal Jewelers.

Richard Westphal, owner of Westphal Jewelers, joined the broadcast to explain his contribution: a $1,495 diamond ring crafted in 14-karat gold. Each two-hour volunteer shift earns an entry into the drawing.

“It feels good to give back and encourage people who are already doing something positive for the community,” Westphal said.

James also reminded listeners that year-end financial gifts are critical for the Salvation Army and can be made in several ways, including online through the campaign’s “Give With Joy” initiative at <a href="http://GiveWithJoyHutch.com">GiveWithJoyHutch.com</a>. The national theme highlights the impact even small donations can have.

The organization remains busy beyond the kettles. This week, a Dillon’s truck delivered food supplies that will be used to assemble 1,000 food boxes for local families. James also reported strong progress on toy donations, with all tags removed from giving trees in record time, though items are still being returned.

The Red Kettle Campaign’s final push runs through Christmas Eve. James said every contribution — whether coins, bills, or volunteer hours — makes a difference.

“We help about 12 percent of the local population each year,” he said. “Every dollar, every coin matters. You can’t make change unless you put change in the bucket.”

Those interested in volunteering can sign up online at <a href="http://RegisterToRing.com">RegisterToRing.com</a>, while financial donations can be made online or at any Red Kettle location throughout the community.

Salvation Army urges community support as Red Kettle donations lag

City Manager&nbsp;Enrico Villegas&nbsp;has been named a recipient of the&nbsp;Early Career Excellence Award&nbsp;by the&nbsp;Kansas Association of City/County Management (KACM), an honor presented by his peers recognizing leadership and impact in local government early in his career.

During the awards presentation at KACM’s annual conference last week, Villegas was recognized for the significant progress achieved in just over one year with the City of Hutchinson. In remarks shared during the ceremony, KACM highlighted his efforts to strengthen relationships between City staff and the governing body, as well as his focus on improving communication and collaboration across City departments.

KACM also cited Villegas’ leadership in addressing long-standing budget challenges through the development of a new long-term financial plan focused on restoring balance and increasing transparency. In addition, he was recognized for reinvigorating Hutchinson’s role as a collaborative partner with Reno County and local organizations to advance the Reno County Economic Development Strategic Plan efforts that KACM noted are already producing positive results for the City and the region.

The association further acknowledged Villegas’ work to reorganize and improve operations within the City’s Public Works Department. According to remarks made during the presentation, these efforts expanded services such as residential street plowing during snow events while remaining within the department’s established budget.

KACM also noted that these organizational improvements and leadership approach contributed to a significant turnaround in staffing, with the City moving from widespread vacancies to being nearly fully staffed across major departments.

The Early Career Excellence Award is a peer-recognized honor presented by the Kansas Association of City/County Management to acknowledge early-career professionals who have made a meaningful impact in their communities and organizations.

Villegas receives Early Career Excellence Award from Kansas Association of City/County Management

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

Martin	Ramon	Duran	12/11/2025 8:12&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Robbie	Michael	Jarrett	12/11/2025 11:54&nbsp;AM	DWS; 2nd or subs conviction,				Possession of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,				Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,				Probation Violation

Abram	Jon	Roth	12/11/2025 1:30&nbsp;PM	Direct Contempt,				Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

Conor	Michael	Eickbush	12/11/2025 6:17&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Adam Travis Galvin 12/11/2025 10:58 PM&nbsp;Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body,&nbsp;Possession of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,&nbsp;Traffic Contraband in Correctional Institution; Introduce Firearm, Ammo, Explosive or Controlled Substance,&nbsp;Possession of hallucinogenic drug,&nbsp;Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misdemeanor; unknown conviction

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — A former Reno County substitute teacher accused of multiple sex crimes involving students has pleaded guilty to reduced charges&nbsp;in Reno County District Court.&nbsp;.&nbsp;

Whitney Shull, 39, a former substitute teacher for Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309, had initially been charged with unlawful sexual relations,&nbsp;attempted&nbsp;unlawful sexual relations, aggravated sexual battery, and two counts of hosting minors consuming alcohol.&nbsp;

According to court&nbsp;documents&nbsp;the&nbsp;allegations stem from incidents that occurred in Reno County between Jan. 31 and Feb. 1&nbsp;of&nbsp;this year&nbsp;involving three teens. Prosecutors alleged Shull engaged in sexual acts with two minors,&nbsp;one consensual and one non-consensual when the alleged victim was&nbsp;unconscious and&nbsp;attempted&nbsp;to force a third teen into a sex act.&nbsp;

Sedgwick County District Attorney spokesperson Lyndsee Stover,&nbsp;confirmed that&nbsp;Shull entered a plea&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;afternoon to five amended misdemeanor charges:&nbsp;

Judge&nbsp;Daniel Gilligan&nbsp;imposed a&nbsp;six-month jail term for each count, with the sentences for counts one, two and three which were ordered to run consecutively, resulting in a controlling sentence of&nbsp;18 months. Shull was granted&nbsp;at least two years of probation, contingent upon her successful completion of a treatment plan.&nbsp;

Under Kansas law, Shull must&nbsp;register as a sex offender for 15 years&nbsp;as a result of&nbsp;the convictions.&nbsp;

Stover noted that the plea agreement included an acknowledgment that under Kansas sentencing guidelines,&nbsp;three adult convictions of class A person misdemeanors count as one adult conviction for criminal-history purposes, per K.S.A. 21-6811(a).&nbsp;

The Sedgwick County District Attorney's office prosecuted the case on behalf of the Reno County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

Shull pleads to misdemeanor charges, sentenced to probation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom officially opens its newest Kansas location inside the Hilton Garden Inn and Convention Center, two leaders behind the project say the goal from the start has been clear: build a restaurant that reflects Hutchinson’s identity, serves both travelers and local residents, and contributes meaningfully to the community.

Sumit Patel, senior representative of the ownership group behind the hotel and restaurant, said Thursday’s grand opening marks the culmination of a multi-year effort to bring the project to life.

“This has been a long time coming,” Patel said. “We’re very excited to be a part of the community. There hasn’t been a warmer community than Hutchinson, Kansas. Everyone here has been so welcoming and supportive of both the hotel, the Hilton Garden Inn, Old Chicago and the convention center.”

Patel said the choice of Old Chicago was deliberate, noting the synergy between the restaurant brand and the hotel’s vision.

“It’s a good fit. It’s good synergy with the hotel brand,” he said. “A lot of hotels want big, fancy restaurants, but that’s not really what this town calls for. Old Chicago has a great, balanced menu. It’s approachable and inviting, and we’ve designed the interior to feel elevated and modern, but still comfortable.”

Director of Operations Dylan Nevola, who is overseeing the Hutchinson location, said the design of the restaurant was shaped with both convenience and local engagement in mind.

“This is a very unique design,” Nevola said. “We wanted to give it kind of an airport-esque feel, where you can sit in the hotel lobby or inside the restaurant. A hotel guest can come right in, but the public is equally welcome.”

One special design touch allows guests to order drinks or appetizers from the lobby while they wait for a table, creating what Nevola described as a more relaxed, flexible experience.

“We sell pizza and beer, but we also have a lot of other menu options,” he said. “Our goal is consistent quality. Whether you’re here or at another Old Chicago across the state, you should get the same great food. And every seat in the restaurant is positioned so you can see at least one — and often two or three — TVs.”

Nevola said Hutchinson was a strategic selection for the chain’s ninth Kansas location because of its strong civic culture and the owner’s previous ties to the community.

“When we come in, we like to be in communities like Hutch,” he said. “We get involved. The owner has done a couple of projects here before, knew the area well, and saw an opportunity.”

Local presence is already integrated into the décor. A row of football helmets from area high schools and Hutchinson Community College are in the dining area, with more expected to arrive.

“Our plan from day one was to be involved in the community,” Nevola said. “We want to showcase how great this community is. With the addition of the convention center, there’s going to be a lot of opportunity for Hutch, and we want to be part of that story.”

Old Chicago is also partnering with the Cosmosphere, which will rotate space-themed art displays in the adjoining hotel lobby.

Patel said the success of the opening is due to the people behind the scenes.

“Our employees, our team, our staff are so excited to serve this community,” he said. “We want Hutchinson to feel proud of this space.”

Old Chicago Hutchinson is now open daily, offering its full menu of pizza, taproom selections, and family-friendly dining options.

Old Chicago leaders highlight community focus as Hutchinson Location Opens

DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Two U.S. service members and one American civilian were killed and three other people wounded in an ambush on Saturday by a lone member of the Islamic State group in central&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/syria">Syria</a>, the the U.S. military’s Central Command said.

The attack on U.S. troops in Syria is the first to inflict casualties since the fall of President Bashar Assad a year ago.

Central Command said in a post on X that as a matter of respect for the families and in accordance with Department of Defense policy, the identities of the service members will be withheld until 24 hours after their next of kin have been notified.

U.S. Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;posted on X: “Let it be known, if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you.”

The shooting took place near historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/syria-palmyra-ruins-historic-site-heritage-8f47dbe20c64a3de99cec50ad2a06680">Palmyra</a>, according to the state-run SANA news agency, which earlier said two members of Syria’s security force and several U.S. service members had been wounded. The casualties were taken by helicopter to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-military-base-syria-drone-attacks-0909cb5b2717963dfd6c4e93522c5ae8">al-Tanf garrison</a>&nbsp;near the border with Iraq and Jordan.

SANA said the attacker was killed, without providing further details.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attacker was a member of the Syrian security force.

The U.S. has hundreds of troops deployed in eastern Syria as part of a coalition fighting the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-caliphate-10th-anniversary-iraq-syria-e25a9ca36ef9c0ed8f743ac9584d50f9">Islamic State</a>&nbsp;group.

Last month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-coalition-islamic-state-79ceed4666aef43465221734fca899d5">Syria joined</a>&nbsp;the international coalition fighting against the IS as Damascus improves its relations with Western countries following the ouster of Assad&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-anniversary-assad-fall-a22746c8b8351b02d77cb62a6260c87e"></a>when insurgents captured his seat of power in Damascus.

The U.S. had no diplomatic relations with Syria under Assad, but ties have warmed since the fall of the five-decade Assad family rule. The interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, made a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-syria-sharaa-first-visit-cf01c5d6c9af7e47ec0bae585634d845">historic visit</a>&nbsp;to Washington last month where he held talks with President Donald Trump.

IS was defeated on the battlefield in Syria in 2019 but the group’s sleeper cells still carry out deadly attacks in the country. The United Nations says the group still has between&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-fighters-syria-iraq-875d5ee8a0978f3b28aeec210b33cd5f">5,000 and 7,000 fighters in Syria and Iraq</a>.

U.S. troops, which have maintained a presence in different parts of Syria — including Al-Tanf garrison in the central province of Homs — to train other forces as part of a broad campaign against IS, have been targeted in the past. One of the deadliest attacks occurred in 2019 in the northern town of Manbij when a blast killed two U.S. service members and two American civilians as well as others from Syria while conducting a patrol.

Ambush: Isis kills 2 US service members  in Syria

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/mead-gruver">MEAD GRUVER</a>

Getting trapped in quicksand is a corny peril of old movies and TV shows, but it really did happen to one unfortunate hiker in Utah’s Arches National Park.

The park famous for dozens of natural, sandstone arches gets over 1 million visitors a year, and accidents ranging from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arches-national-park-hiker-dies-fall-0a2f0d4de9dd246c7ae95cec87195ce8">falls</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-hiker-dead-heat-stroke-arches-utah-c547aacd31b54cebdba5f6b96bc35748">heat stroke</a>&nbsp;are common.

Quicksand? Not really — but it has happened at least a couple of times now.

“The wet sand just kind of flows back in. It’s kind of a never-ending battle,” said John Marshall, who helped a woman stuck in quicksand over a decade ago and coordinated the latest rescue.

On Sunday, an experienced hiker, whose identity wasn’t released, was traversing a small canyon on the second day of a 20-mile (32-kilometer) backpacking trip when he sank up to his thigh, according to Marshall.

Unable to free himself, the hiker activated an emergency satellite beacon. His message got forwarded to Grand County emergency responders and Marshall got the call at 7:15 a.m..

“I was just rolling out of bed,” Marshall said. “I’m scratching my head, going, ‘Did I hear that right? Did they say quicksand?’”

He put his boots on and rendezvoused with a team that set out with all-terrain vehicles, a ladder, traction boards, backboards and a drone. Soon, Marshall had a bird’s-eye view of the situation.

Through the drone camera he saw a park ranger who’d tossed the man a shovel. But the quicksand flowed back as soon as the backpacker shoveled it away, Marshall said.

The Grand County Search and Rescue team positioned the ladder and boards near the backpacker and slowly worked his leg loose. By then he’d been standing in near-freezing muck, in temperatures in the 20s (minus 6 to minus 1 Celsius), for a couple of hours.

Rescuers warmed him up until he could stand, then walk. He then hiked out on his own, even carrying his backpack, Marshall said.

Quicksand is dangerous but it’s a myth total submersion is the main risk, said Marshall.

“In quicksand you’re extremely buoyant,” he said. “Most people won’t sink past their waist in quicksand.”

Marshall is more or less a quicksand expert.

In 2014, he was a medic who helped a 78-year-old woman after she was stuck for over 13 hours in the same canyon just 2 miles (3 kilometers) from where Sunday’s rescue took place.

The woman’s book club got worried when she missed their meeting. They went looking for her and found her car at a trailhead. It was June — warmer than Sunday but not sweltering in the canyon’s shade — and the woman made a full recovery after regaining use of her legs.

“Both had very happy endings,” Marshall said.

Hiker rescued after mired in quicksand at national park

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged scam that cost a man $200,000 over several months this year.&nbsp;

In May, a 77-year-old Salina man received a phone call claiming he won a "MegaMillions lottery ticket and brand new vehicle," according to Salina Police Lt. Andrew Zeigler on Friday.

The scammers told the man he needed pay a price for "legal fees and other reasons.

The man then sent $500 increments on various cash cards. As time passed, the man was then contacted by another individual stating the previous two callers were scammers. However, the caller told the man he needed to send money in order to recover the $500 previously sent.

The victim then sent an undetermined amount of money through cash cards to the new scammer. The scammer then persuaded him to purchase a new vehicle and then sell it. He was advised to then take the cash from the sold vehicle, and place it into a bank account.

As a result, the man could not find the money in the account after following through with the scammer’s instructions. The total loss resulted in over $200,000, according to Lt. Andrew Zeigler,

Police reminded the public to never believe anyone from a sudden phone call, stating you have won a lottery ticket and new a vehicle. It is a scam.

Additionally, if a caller informs you that the previous call was a scam and further states you need to send money to recover the funds you sent, it is a scam.&nbsp;It is a common scheme for scammers to work together to successfully follow through with the crime.&nbsp;

Police: Kansas man lost $200,000 in phone scam

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-vote-affordable-care-act-obamacare-6ffc1ea9f878c6b3da995589ef8a012c">failed</a>&nbsp;to get anywhere on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-health-tax-credits-affordable-care-act-2b5ae3651ff16783a00e00dc1ce264bf">the health care issue</a>&nbsp;this week. Now it's the House's turn to show what it can do.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;unveiled a Republican alternative late Friday, a last-minute sprint as his party refuses to extend the enhanced tax subsidies for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aca-credits-health-care-subsidies-government-shutdown-7f7a3609bf78dd7e43be9a041a090220">those who buy policies</a>&nbsp;through the Affordable Care Act, also called Obamacare, which are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-health-care-tax-credits-obamacare-shutdown-f1ee636ddba7f65baa5234c55cb0c96e">expiring at the end of the year</a>. Those subsidies help lower the cost of coverage.

Johnson, R-La., huddled behind closed doors in the morning — as he did days earlier this week — working to assemble the package for consideration as the House focuses the final days of its 2025 work on health care.

“House Republicans are tackling the real drivers of health care costs to provide affordable care,” Johnson said in a statement announcing the package. He said it would be voted on next week.

Later Friday, though, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said: “House Republicans have introduced toxic legislation that is completely unserious, hurts hardworking America taxpayers and is not designed to secure bipartisan support. If the bill reaches the House floor, I will strongly oppose it.”

Time is running out for Congress to act. Democrats engineered the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-11-12-2025">longest federal government shutdown ever</a>&nbsp;this fall in a failed effort to force Republicans to the negotiating table on health care. But after promising votes, the Senate failed this week to advance both&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-health-care-insurance-premiums-ee6ccda9ea9df4a8e5a0af351e65afd4">a Republican health care plan</a>&nbsp;and the Democratic-offered bill to extend the tax credits for three years.

Now, with just days to go, Congress is about to wrap up its work with no consensus solution in sight.

The House Republicans offered a 100-plus-page package that focuses on long-sought GOP proposals to enhance access to employer-sponsored health insurance plans and clamp down on so-called pharmacy benefit managers.

Republicans propose expanding access to what's referred to as association health plans, which would allow more small businesses and self-employed individuals to band together and purchase health coverage.

Proponents say such plans increase the leverage businesses have to negotiate a lower rate. But critics say the plans provide skimpier coverage than what is required under the Affordable Care Act.

The Republicans’ proposal would also require more data from pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, as a way to help control drug costs. Critics say PBMs have padded their bottom line and made it more difficult for independent pharmacists to survive.

Additionally, the GOP plan includes mention of cost-sharing reductions for some lower-income people who rely on Obamacare, but those do not take effect until January 2027.

The emerging package from the House Republicans does not include an extension of an enhanced tax credit for millions of Americans who get insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act. Put in place during the COVID-19 crisis, that enhanced subsidy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aca-credits-health-care-subsidies-government-shutdown-7f7a3609bf78dd7e43be9a041a090220">expires</a>&nbsp;Dec. 31, leaving most families in the program facing more than double their current out-of-pocket premiums, and in some cases, much more.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has said he believes Republicans are going to figure out a better plan than Obamacare — something he has promised for years — but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-health-care-plan-affordable-care-act-obamacare-97483a1f4d5e844f439c630d74d86ff2">offered few details</a>&nbsp;beyond his idea for providing Americans with stipends to help buy insurance.

“I want to see the billions of dollars go to people, not to the insurance companies," Trump said late Friday during an event at the White House. “And I want to see the people go out and buy themselves great healthcare.”

The president did not comment directly on the House's new plan. He has repeatedly touted his idea of sending money directly to Americans to help offset the costs of health care policies, rather than extending the tax credits for those buying policies through Obamacare. It’s unclear how much money Trump envisions. The Senate GOP proposal that failed to advance would have provided payments to new health savings accounts of $1,000 a year for adult enrollees, or $1,500 for those ages 50 to 64.

It appeared there were no such health savings accounts in the new House GOP plan.

Going Johnson's route has left vulnerable House Republicans representing key battleground districts in a tough spot.

Frustrated with the delays, a group of more centrist GOP lawmakers is aligning with Democrats to push their own proposals for continuing the tax credits, for now, so that Americans don't face&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/millions-face-higher-health-costs-after-senate-rejects-dueling-aca-proposals-bb044bd633d847ef886e41a42bdc78ce">rising health care costs</a>.

They are pursuing several paths for passing a temporary ACA subsidy extension, co-sponsoring a handful of bills. They are also signing onto so-called discharge petitions that could force a floor vote if a majority of the House signs on.

Such petitions are designed to get around the majority's control and are rarely successful, but this year has proven to be an exception. Lawmakers, for example, were able to use a discharge petition to force a vote on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-files-congress-trump-house-297a66ce48bd2a67c571bc643e32ef71">release</a>&nbsp;of the Jeffrey Epstein files held by the Department of Justice.

One petition, filed by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., had signatures from 12 Republicans and 12 Democrats as of Friday afternoon. It would force a vote on a bill that includes a two-year subsidy extension and contains provisions designed to combat fraud in the ACA marketplace. There are also restrictions for PBMs, among other things.

Another petition from Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., has 39 signatures and is broadly bipartisan. It's a simpler proposal that would force a vote on a one-year ACA enhanced subsidy extension and would include new income caps limiting who qualifies for the enhanced credit.

Both discharge petitions have enough Republicans’ support that they would likely succeed if Jeffries encouraged his caucus to jump on board. So far, he's not tipping his hand.

“We’re actively reviewing those two discharge petitions and we’ll have more to say about it early next week,” Jeffries said.

Meanwhile, Jeffries is pushing Democrats' own discharge petition, which has 214 signatures and would provide for a clean three-year subsidy extension. No Republicans have signed onto that one.

And as Republicans made clear in the Senate this week, a three-year extension without changes to the program has no chance of passing their chamber.

What's included in Speaker Johnson's new health care propsal

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/james-robson">JAMES ROBSON</a>

Soccer fans have accused FIFA of a “monumental betrayal” after latest prices for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-world-cup">World Cup</a>&nbsp;tickets began to circulate on Thursday.

The governing body allocates 8% of tickets to national associations for games involving their team to sell to the most loyal fans.

And a list published by the German soccer federation revealed prices ranged from $180-$700 for varying group stage games. The lowest price for the final was $4,185 and the highest was $8,680.

Those group-stage prices are very different from FIFA’s claims of $60 tickets being available, while the target from United States soccer officials when bidding for the tournament seven years ago was to offer hundreds of thousands of $21 seats across the opening phase of games.

Fan organization Football Supporters Europe (FSE) described the current prices as “extortionate.”

“This is a monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup, ignoring the contribution of supporters to the spectacle it is,” it said in a statement.

The English Football Association shared pricing information with the England Supporters Travel Club (ESTC) on Thursday evening, which showed that if a fan bought a ticket for every game through to the final it would cost just over $7,000.

FIFA&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fifa-world-cup-tickets-2026-bcf8864cafa11ee30ba659a14d098968">said in September</a>&nbsp;that tickets released through its website would initially range from $60 for group-stage matches to $6,730 for the final. But those prices are subject to change as it adopts dynamic pricing for the first time at the World Cup.

FIFA tickets are available in four categories, with the best seats in Category 1.

In the price list published by the German federation, there were only three categories.

The lowest priced ticket was $180 for Germany’s opening group game against Curacao in Houston. The lowest price for the semifinal was $920 rising to $1,125.

The FSE called on FIFA to immediately halt ticket sales via national associations “until a solution that respects the tradition, universality, and cultural significance of the World Cup is found.”

The Associated Press approached FIFA for comment.

FIFA launched its third phase of widespread ticket sales Thursday, with fans now able to apply for specific matches for the first time through its “Random Selection Draw.”

Following last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/world-cup-draw-2026-updates">draw for the 2026 tournament</a>, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, an updated schedule has been published.

That means fans know when and where the likes of Lionel Messi and Argentina will play. Previous ticket ballots were blind as the qualification period had not even been completed and the draw was yet to take place.

Now participating nations have been placed in groups, with their paths through the tournament determined. For instance, Messi and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ronaldo-world-cup-qualifying-portugal-norway-d7cd3bd194dea0436590b7d0af985273">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>&nbsp;could go on to meet in the quarterfinals in Kansas City if both Argentina and Portugal top their respective groups.

Not that fans are guaranteed to get tickets to the games they apply for.

The draw opened Dec. 11 at 11 a.m. ET (1600 GMT) and closes Jan. 13, 2026.

FIFA says ticket applications can be made at any point during this window and the timing of entry will not impact the chances of success. Fans can apply via FIFA’s website for a maximum of four tickets per household per match and a maximum of 40 tickets throughout the tournament.

Fans will need a FIFA ID to apply for tickets and can pick which matches and which pricing category they want to apply for.

Successful applicants will be notified by email in February and charged automatically.

The last time the U.S. hosted the World Cup in 1994 prices ranged from $25 to $475. In Qatar in 2022 prices ranged from around $70 to $1,600 when ticket details were announced.

Tickets for the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19 are already going for in excess of $11,000 on secondary resale sites.

For this tournament FIFA has also set up its own resale platform where it charges a 15% fee based on the total resale price.

FIFA said that closer to the tournament any remaining tickets will go on general sale on a first-come, first-served basis.

It did not reveal a time frame for the release of those remaining tickets.

AP Sports Writer Graham Dunbar in Geneva contributed to this report.

Local

Region

Sports