WICHITA | KANSAS CITY
EDUCATION | PEOPLE | BLACK HISTORY
Good morning! It’s Friday, April 19 and these are this week’s top stories. Today’s newsletter covers a range of topics, from space travel to legal reforms.
First, we have the inspiring story of Kansas City native Ed Dwight, the first Black astronaut candidate selected by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, who is set to make history at age 90 by joining the next Blue Origin space flight. Next, we have news of the resignation of Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III from his position as CEO and President of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.
In local news, a constitutional challenge has led to significant changes in Wichita’s gang list, impacting thousands of individuals. Additionally, Kansas lawmakers have voted unanimously to overhaul the state’s asset forfeiture statute, which allowed law enforcement to seize property based on mere suspicion of illegal activity. Finally, we have a guide to maintaining a clean and sanitary shower experience, including the truth about loofahs and their potential impact on your hygiene routine.
Kansas City native Ed Dwight, first black astronaut candidate, to fly in space at 90
Ed Dwight, the first Black astronaut candidate selected by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, is set to make history at age 90 by joining the next Blue Origin space flight. Despite being forced out of the astronaut training program in 1965, Dwight went on to become a successful sculptor, creating large-scale public installations that depict Black people and their history. He will become the oldest person to fly in space, surpassing William Shatner, who flew on a Blue Origin flight in 2021.
Rainbow/PUSH Coalition’s leader, Rev. Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III, steps down amidst financial turmoil
Settlement agreement removes two-thirds of Wichita’s gang list, requires annual audit
In a recent development, a constitutional challenge has led to significant changes in Wichita’s gang list, impacting thousands of individuals. This shift comes as a result of a settlement agreement approved by the city council, with implications for police procedures and citizens’ constitutional rights.
Kansas legislature passes bill transforming asset seizure statute, making justice system more just
Kansas lawmakers have voted unanimously to overhaul the state’s asset forfeiture statute, which allowed law enforcement to seize property based on mere suspicion of illegal activity. The bill requires agencies to file a petition supporting property possession within 14 days and removes offenses related to controlled substances from the list of crimes that allow seizure and forfeiture actions. The legislation also limits the ability of local and state law enforcement agencies to pass seizure cases to federal authorities, a tactic that made it more difficult for owners of property to challenge the taking.
The gross truth about loofahs: Sanitation tips to keep your skin squeaky clean
Discover the truth about loofahs and their potential impact on your hygiene routine. Learn about the hidden bacteria lurking in these shower staples and find out how to properly care for and clean them. Dive into this insightful guide to maintaining a clean and sanitary shower experience.
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