News

Senate Appropriations Committee passes Moran’s FY2026 Commerce, Justice, & Science Appropriations Bill

Special to the Leader & Times

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) – released the following statement after the Senate Committee on Appropriations approved the FY2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Act:

“This legislation strengthens the programs that are important to Kansas – support for local law enforcement to combat violent crime and disrupt fentanyl trafficking, investments to bolster economic growth, and resources to provide critical 24/7 weather coverage – while also taking steps to make targeted reductions in spending,” Moran said. “I appreciate the support from my colleagues to fund critical programs that strengthen our nation’s federal law enforcement, invest in NASA’s Artemis program, support scientific research, and improve our economic competitiveness.”

Cortemelia takes helm of Lady Saints softball

ELLY GRIMM

• Leader & Times

The Lady Saints softball season is still some time away from beginning, and there will be a new face at the helm with new head coach Kimber Cortemelia.

And as Cortemelia tells it, she is no stranger to the game.

Westlake provides fans for those in need

ROBERT PIERCE

• Leader & Times

Summer in Southwest Kansas typically sees highs staying above 90 degrees for many days in a row, and this leaves many locals looking for ways to beat the heat.

Helping in this pursuit, for the past 13 years, Westlake Ace Hardware stores nationwide have hosted an annual fan drive in partnership with the Salvation Army.

To date, more than 70,000 box fans have been distributed to seniors, low-income families and others in need across the communities Westlake serves.

Baker Arts Center one of 108 KAC grant recipients

Special to the Leader & Times

Lt. Gov. and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced Tuesday 108 grant recipients will share $1 million in total funding from the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC). The funding reinforces KAC’s role as a catalyst for economic development and community vitality.

“These grants will support an array of organizations and initiatives that will enrich the appeal of these communities, encourage innovation and drive economic growth,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Arts shape the unique character of our Kansas communities and through these awards, community leaders and artists can continue investing locally while opening doors to new opportunities and experiences for residents and visitors alike.”

One dead, three arrested in connection to morning shooting in Garden City

Garden City Police Department

GARDEN CITY – One person is dead, and two others remain hospitalized after a shooting early Wednesday. Michael Lara, 19, Ivan Lara, 16, and Isaac Lara, 15, were arrested in connection to the investigation.

Around 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, officers of the Garden City Police Department responded to a shooting at the Continental Apartments (1408 W. Buffalo Jones Ave.).