By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/eric-olson">ERIC OLSON</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;TOM COYNE Associated Press

Lou Holtz, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/college-football">College Football</a>&nbsp;Hall of Fame coach who led&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/notre-dame-fighting-irish-football">Notre Dame</a>&nbsp;to the 1988 national championship and won 249 games over 33 seasons at six schools, has died. He was 89.

Notre Dame announced on Wednesday that Holtz died in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by his family. Spokeswoman Katy Lonergan said a cause of death was not provided by the family.

Holtz became the first and so far only coach to lead six different teams to bowl games during a career in which he compiled a record of 249-132-7. He still ranks 10th all-time in career victories by a Football Bowl Subdivision coach, eighth all-time with 388 games coached.

At Notre Dame, he went 100-30-2 in 11 seasons producing both the third-highest win total in school history and the second-highest loss total.

Holtz won at every stop — except for a brief stint in the NFL.

He didn’t just win games, either. The diminutive coach captivated fans with his occasionally fiery sideline demeanor, his self-deprecating wit and folksy phrases all while demanding excellence, on and off the field, from his much larger players.

Holtz became such a popular personality that after coaching his last game, in 2004 with South Carolina, he parlayed that into a broadcasting career and motivational speaking.

On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather."

"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”

- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772661637315.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/eric-olson">ERIC OLSON</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;TOM COYNE Associated PressLou Holtz, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/college-football">College Football</a>&nbsp;Hall of Fame coach who led&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/notre-dame-fighting-irish-football">Notre Dame</a>&nbsp;to the 1988 national championship and won 249 games over 33 seasons at six schools, has died. He was 89.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very… <a href="https://t.co/dM53csuvJ0">https://t.co/dM53csuvJ0</a>&mdash; University of Notre Dame (@NotreDame) <a href="https://twitter.com/NotreDame/status/2029313919567946016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Notre Dame announced on Wednesday that Holtz died in Orlando, Florida, surrounded by his family. Spokeswoman Katy Lonergan said a cause of death was not provided by the family.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From the family of Lou Holtz <a href="https://t.co/aYWiXYVnLq">pic.twitter.com/aYWiXYVnLq</a>&mdash; The Fighting Irish (@FightingIrish) <a href="https://twitter.com/FightingIrish/status/2029308530398724260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Holtz became the first and so far only coach to lead six different teams to bowl games during a career in which he compiled a record of 249-132-7. He still ranks 10th all-time in career victories by a Football Bowl Subdivision coach, eighth all-time with 388 games coached.At Notre Dame, he went 100-30-2 in 11 seasons producing both the third-highest win total in school history and the second-highest loss total.Holtz won at every stop — except for a brief stint in the NFL.He didn’t just win games, either. The diminutive coach captivated fans with his occasionally fiery sideline demeanor, his self-deprecating wit and folksy phrases all while demanding excellence, on and off the field, from his much larger players.Holtz became such a popular personality that after coaching his last game, in 2004 with South Carolina, he parlayed that into a broadcasting career and motivational speaking.___Football coach Lou Holtz has died.On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather.""Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz dead at 89

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A 52-year-old Hays man has been arrested on a charge of allegedly rape of a minor.

Lt. Brandom Hauptman said the alleged offense involving Jason Raymond Breit took place in Hays. Breit was arrested Feb. 24 in Ellis while returning home.

He was arrested on an alleged rape charge of a minor younger than 14 and an alleged aggravated criminal sodomy charge.

No other details were provided, and the investigation is ongoing. Breit was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772709912425.png" alt="Breit photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Breit photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA 52-year-old Hays man has been arrested on a charge of allegedly rape of a minor.Lt. Brandom Hauptman said the alleged offense involving Jason Raymond Breit took place in Hays. Breit was arrested Feb. 24 in Ellis while returning home.He was arrested on an alleged rape charge of a minor younger than 14 and an alleged aggravated criminal sodomy charge.No other details were provided, and the investigation is ongoing. Breit was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

Hays man arrested on alleged rape of minor charge

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Four of the six U.S. soldiers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-03-03-2026-8755877b603e46ed3df8107689c1ee23">killed in the Iran war</a>&nbsp;were identified Tuesday by the Pentagon as members of the Army Reserve from different states who worked in logistics and kept troops supplied with food and equipment.

They died Sunday when a drone hit a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, just a day after the U.S. and Israel launched its military campaign against Iran. Iran&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">responded by launching missiles</a>&nbsp;and drones against Israel and several Gulf Arab states that host U.S. armed forces.

Those killed were Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, lowa, who was posthumously promoted from specialist. No other names were released.

“These men and women all bravely volunteered to defend our country, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll said.

All were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, which provides food, fuel, water and ammunition, transport equipment and supplies.

“Sadly, there will likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is,” President Donald Trump said of deaths.

Amor was just a few days away from returning home to her husband and two children when she was killed.

“You don’t go to Kuwait thinking something’s going to happen, and for her to be one of the first – it hurts,” Joey Amor, her husband, said Tuesday.

Amor was an avid gardener who enjoyed making salsa from the peppers and tomatoes in her garden with her son, a senior in high school. She also enjoyed rollerblading and bicycling with her fourth-grade daughter.

“If you needed anything she would just take care of it for you," Joey Amor said. "She’s helped a lot of people through a lot of dark times, and brought a lot of light to this world.”

Coady's LinkedIn page said he was a student at Drake University and an information technology specialist with the Army Reserve.

He said he had learned how to "interact with countless different kinds of people from all different backgrounds” through his service.

Coady became an Eagle Scout in 2020, according to a Facebook post from his West Des Moines troop. An Iowa organization that helps homeless children said he made 12 Adirondack chairs for the group.

Nebraska U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts said he and his wife are mourning Tietjens’ death and praying for his family.

“May we always remember and honor the sacrifices made by Noah Tietjens and the Tietjens family,” Ricketts said.

Tietjens was married with a son, according to a Facebook page. A photo online shows the couple with their son wearing a martial arts uniform.

There are several family photos on Facebook pages belonging to Amor and her husband, Joey Amor, including some images with a teen son.

Last November, Joey wrote a post expressing his love for Nicole.

“Even while you are on the other side of the world you found a way to make my birthday special,” he said. “I love you!”

Associated Press writer Rebecca Boone contributed from Boise, Idaho.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772586254320.png" alt="Sgt. Declan Coady-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Declan Coady-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command</figcaption>
 </figure>By HANNAH FINGERHUT and REBECCA BOONEWEST DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Four of the six U.S. soldiers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-03-03-2026-8755877b603e46ed3df8107689c1ee23">killed in the Iran war</a>&nbsp;were identified Tuesday by the Pentagon as members of the Army Reserve from different states who worked in logistics and kept troops supplied with food and equipment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772586386971.png" alt="Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command</figcaption>
 </figure>They died Sunday when a drone hit a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, just a day after the U.S. and Israel launched its military campaign against Iran. Iran&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">responded by launching missiles</a>&nbsp;and drones against Israel and several Gulf Arab states that host U.S. armed forces.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772586522853.png" alt="Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command</figcaption>
 </figure>Those killed were Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, lowa, who was posthumously promoted from specialist. No other names were released.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772586582687.png" alt="Capt. Cody Khork-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command" />
 <figcaption>Capt. Cody Khork-photo&nbsp;U.S. Army Reserve Command</figcaption>
 </figure>“These men and women all bravely volunteered to defend our country, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll said.All were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, which provides food, fuel, water and ammunition, transport equipment and supplies.“Sadly, there will likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is,” President Donald Trump said of deaths.Amor was just a few days away from returning home to her husband and two children when she was killed.“You don’t go to Kuwait thinking something’s going to happen, and for her to be one of the first – it hurts,” Joey Amor, her husband, said Tuesday.Amor was an avid gardener who enjoyed making salsa from the peppers and tomatoes in her garden with her son, a senior in high school. She also enjoyed rollerblading and bicycling with her fourth-grade daughter.“If you needed anything she would just take care of it for you," Joey Amor said. "She’s helped a lot of people through a lot of dark times, and brought a lot of light to this world.”Coady's LinkedIn page said he was a student at Drake University and an information technology specialist with the Army Reserve.He said he had learned how to "interact with countless different kinds of people from all different backgrounds” through his service.Coady became an Eagle Scout in 2020, according to a Facebook post from his West Des Moines troop. An Iowa organization that helps homeless children said he made 12 Adirondack chairs for the group.Nebraska U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts said he and his wife are mourning Tietjens’ death and praying for his family.“May we always remember and honor the sacrifices made by Noah Tietjens and the Tietjens family,” Ricketts said.Tietjens was married with a son, according to a Facebook page. A photo online shows the couple with their son wearing a martial arts uniform.There are several family photos on Facebook pages belonging to Amor and her husband, Joey Amor, including some images with a teen son.Last November, Joey wrote a post expressing his love for Nicole.“Even while you are on the other side of the world you found a way to make my birthday special,” he said. “I love you!”___Associated Press writer Rebecca Boone contributed from Boise, Idaho.

US soldiers who died in Iran war remembered as devoted parents and reservists

Plainville USD 270 voters approved a $5.49 million bond and rejected a second $7.05 million bond in Tuesday’s election.

The proposal appeared as a two-question ballot, with each question addressing a separate group of projects at Plainville Elementary School and Plainville Junior-Senior High School.

Approval of question one will fund facility upgrades, such as HVAC and electrical updates, LED lighting installation, and restroom improvements.

The measure passed with 392 yes votes to 263 no votes.

Question two failed and would have funded classroom and entrance renovations at both schools, along with improvements to the Rock Gym and Cardinal Gym. The measure received 209 yes votes and 443 no votes.

USD 270 Superintendent Chris Rinehart said he is pleased with <a href="https://www.rookscountyks.gov/media/2511">the results despite proposal two not passing</a>.

"I understand that this was just the time our community wasn't ready to take on that much of a tax obligation," Rinehart said. "I am happy that we were able to at least get that proposal one through, and we are able to address those needs. I was hoping we would get both, but I'm still happy."

Each ballot question carried a different estimated impact on the mill levy. With only question one approved, the estimated increase will be one mill.

On a $100,000 home, a one mill increase is $11.50 per year. The median home value in Rooks County is $88,200.

Rinehart said restrooms will be updated to meet ADA standards, and the building will receive interior and exterior upgrades to prevent stormwater intrusion. He said work on some of the projects could begin as early as spring.

Proposal two would have also allowed the district to address safe and secure entrances for both schools. In addition to gym renovations, the Cardinal Gym would have included a new room designed as a storm shelter with a capacity of 550 people.

Rinehart said the district will continue to address safety through crisis committees. Security camera and monitoring system improvements have already been made.

"We're not going to be talking about a reconfiguration or remodeling our entries, but we'll definitely be talking about what we can do, whether it's through the enhancement of some technology or whatever it is we need to do," he said.

Rinehart said the district has a five-year facilities plan, from which several bond projects were drawn, and will review it again before deciding how to proceed with future improvements.

"I am happy that our voters are supporting us with proposal one. We'll definitely do our best to address those needs and be good stewards of the funding we will receive. We'll do what's best for the community and district," Rinehart said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772212110479.png" alt="Plainville Junior-Senior High School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Plainville Junior-Senior High School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostPlainville USD 270 voters approved a $5.49 million bond and rejected a second $7.05 million bond in Tuesday’s election.The proposal appeared as a two-question ballot, with each question addressing a separate group of projects at Plainville Elementary School and Plainville Junior-Senior High School.Approval of question one will fund facility upgrades, such as HVAC and electrical updates, LED lighting installation, and restroom improvements.The measure passed with 392 yes votes to 263 no votes.Question two failed and would have funded classroom and entrance renovations at both schools, along with improvements to the Rock Gym and Cardinal Gym. The measure received 209 yes votes and 443 no votes.USD 270 Superintendent Chris Rinehart said he is pleased with <a href="https://www.rookscountyks.gov/media/2511">the results despite proposal two not passing</a>."I understand that this was just the time our community wasn't ready to take on that much of a tax obligation," Rinehart said. "I am happy that we were able to at least get that proposal one through, and we are able to address those needs. I was hoping we would get both, but I'm still happy."Each ballot question carried a different estimated impact on the mill levy. With only question one approved, the estimated increase will be one mill.On a $100,000 home, a one mill increase is $11.50 per year. The median home value in Rooks County is $88,200.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772636993742.png" alt="The annual estimated cost to homeowners on an annual basis with proposition one being approved on Tuesday. Plainville USD 270" />
 <figcaption>The annual estimated cost to homeowners on an annual basis with proposition one being approved on Tuesday. Plainville USD 270</figcaption>
 </figure>Rinehart said restrooms will be updated to meet ADA standards, and the building will receive interior and exterior upgrades to prevent stormwater intrusion. He said work on some of the projects could begin as early as spring.Proposal two would have also allowed the district to address safe and secure entrances for both schools. In addition to gym renovations, the Cardinal Gym would have included a new room designed as a storm shelter with a capacity of 550 people.Rinehart said the district will continue to address safety through crisis committees. Security camera and monitoring system improvements have already been made."We're not going to be talking about a reconfiguration or remodeling our entries, but we'll definitely be talking about what we can do, whether it's through the enhancement of some technology or whatever it is we need to do," he said.Rinehart said the district has a five-year facilities plan, from which several bond projects were drawn, and will review it again before deciding how to proceed with future improvements."I am happy that our voters are supporting us with proposal one. We'll definitely do our best to address those needs and be good stewards of the funding we will receive. We'll do what's best for the community and district," Rinehart said.

Plainville USD 270 voters approve $5.49 million bond for school upgrades

By JAY HARRIS Cottonwood Extension District Director

In a recent presentation to county commissioners, I included a slide that asked a simple but important question: “Why do we need K-State Extension when we have Google?”

It’s a fair question. Today, anyone can search for information in seconds. Answers are immediate. Advice is everywhere. Videos, blogs, podcasts, social media posts; the volume of information available is overwhelming. So where does K-State Extension fit?

The answer is this: Google gives you information. K-State Extension gives you application, context, and trust.

Search engines can provide thousands of answers. But they can’t tell you which recommendation fits western Kansas soil conditions. They can’t evaluate your pasture, your business plan, your parenting challenge, or your local regulation. They don’t know your community, your climate, or your constraints. K-State Extension does.

As part of Kansas State University, K-State Extension translates university research into practical, local solutions. Our agents live and work in the communities they serve. We understand the realities of agriculture, small business development, youth programming, and family life in central and western Kansas.

When a producer has a forage question, we don’t offer a generic answer; we interpret research in the context of local rainfall patterns, soil types, and market conditions. When a parent needs guidance, we rely on evidence-based programs, not internet opinion. When an entrepreneur wants to start a food business, we connect them with research-backed resources, regulatory guidance, and experienced professionals. K-State Extension is not just about answers. It’s about trusted relationships.

Our staff build long-term partnerships with schools, producers, community leaders, and families. We serve on advisory councils, collaborate with local organizations, and respond when emerging issues affect our counties. That level of engagement cannot be replicated by an algorithm.

Another key difference is accountability. The information we provide is grounded in university research. It is reviewed, evidence-based, and designed to improve outcomes; whether in agriculture, health, youth development, or community vitality. In an age of misinformation, that matters.

Google may provide speed. K-State Extension provides confidence.

Google may give you options. K-State Extension helps you make decisions.

Google can search the world. K-State Extension serves your county.

As district director for the Cottonwood Extension District, I am proud of the work our agents, program assistants, community health worker and office professionals do every day to bring reliable, research-based education directly to the people of our communities. 

Our goal is not to compete with search engines; it is to ensure that when our residents need answers that truly fit their situation, they have a trusted local resource.

Jay Harris is the District Director of the Cottonwood Extension District comprised of Ellis and Barton counties.&nbsp;He may be reached at jayharris@ksu.edu or the Hays office at&nbsp;785-628-9430 or the Great Bend office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710532154009.png" alt="Jay Harris&nbsp;s the District Director of the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jay Harris&nbsp;s the District Director of the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAY HARRIS Cottonwood Extension District DirectorIn a recent presentation to county commissioners, I included a slide that asked a simple but important question: “Why do we need K-State Extension when we have Google?”It’s a fair question. Today, anyone can search for information in seconds. Answers are immediate. Advice is everywhere. Videos, blogs, podcasts, social media posts; the volume of information available is overwhelming. So where does K-State Extension fit?The answer is this: Google gives you information. K-State Extension gives you application, context, and trust.Search engines can provide thousands of answers. But they can’t tell you which recommendation fits western Kansas soil conditions. They can’t evaluate your pasture, your business plan, your parenting challenge, or your local regulation. They don’t know your community, your climate, or your constraints. K-State Extension does.As part of Kansas State University, K-State Extension translates university research into practical, local solutions. Our agents live and work in the communities they serve. We understand the realities of agriculture, small business development, youth programming, and family life in central and western Kansas.When a producer has a forage question, we don’t offer a generic answer; we interpret research in the context of local rainfall patterns, soil types, and market conditions. When a parent needs guidance, we rely on evidence-based programs, not internet opinion. When an entrepreneur wants to start a food business, we connect them with research-backed resources, regulatory guidance, and experienced professionals. K-State Extension is not just about answers. It’s about trusted relationships.Our staff build long-term partnerships with schools, producers, community leaders, and families. We serve on advisory councils, collaborate with local organizations, and respond when emerging issues affect our counties. That level of engagement cannot be replicated by an algorithm.Another key difference is accountability. The information we provide is grounded in university research. It is reviewed, evidence-based, and designed to improve outcomes; whether in agriculture, health, youth development, or community vitality. In an age of misinformation, that matters.Google may provide speed. K-State Extension provides confidence.Google may give you options. K-State Extension helps you make decisions.Google can search the world. K-State Extension serves your county.As district director for the Cottonwood Extension District, I am proud of the work our agents, program assistants, community health worker and office professionals do every day to bring reliable, research-based education directly to the people of our communities. Our goal is not to compete with search engines; it is to ensure that when our residents need answers that truly fit their situation, they have a trusted local resource.That is the value of K-State Extension.And that is why we are here.Jay Harris is the District Director of the Cottonwood Extension District comprised of Ellis and Barton counties.&nbsp;He may be reached at jayharris@ksu.edu or the Hays office at&nbsp;785-628-9430 or the Great Bend office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

HARRIS: Why do we need K-State Extension when we have Google?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Tensions flared as questions mounted at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump</a>&nbsp;administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-68d78b2215cc6c021937859ce852e1f2">shifting rationale</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">war with Iran</a>&nbsp;as lawmakers demand answers over the strategy, exit plan and costs to Americans in lives and dollars for what is quickly becoming a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-war-israel-strait-or-hormuz-deaths-f1619c6bfbbd5fe10857ff0af073aa0e">widening Middle East conflict</a>.

Trump officials made their case at the Capitol during a second day of closed-door briefings, this time with all members of the House and Senate ahead of a looming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-constitution-37ec6685d9ded1d467a719f91e537487">war powers resolution</a>&nbsp;vote intended to restrict Trump’s ability to continue the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-netanyahu-trump-support-ef032c6370bd31294cab5641a57ba8af">joint U.S.-Israel campaign</a>&nbsp;against Iran.

“The president determined we were not going to get hit first. It’s that simple,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a testy exchange with reporters at the Capitol.

Rubio pushed back on his own&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-68d78b2215cc6c021937859ce852e1f2">suggestion</a>&nbsp;a day earlier that Trump decided to strike Iran because Israel was ready to act first. Instead, he said Trump made the decision to attack this past weekend because it presented a unique opportunity with maximum chance for success.

“There is no way in the world that this terroristic regime was going to get nuclear weapons, not under Donald Trump’s watch,” he said.

The sudden pivot to a U.S. wartime footing has disrupted the political and policy agenda on Capitol Hill and raised uneasy questions about the risks ahead for a prolonged conflict and regime change after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-supreme-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-dead-5b13b69b708c4ed38e8f95f5fb41a597">killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>. At least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-soldiers-who-died-iran-war-46f54df716fe1c5290363da0a15f99f3">six U.S. military service personnel have died</a>&nbsp;so far.

The situation has intensified the push in Congress for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/war-powers-act-trump-congress-9e6832fb5f5f844acf8992008d3a8d63">war powers resolution</a>&nbsp;— among the most consequential votes a lawmaker can take, with the war well underway — as administration officials are telling lawmakers they will likely need supplemental funds to pay for the conflict. It comes at the start of a highly competitive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/election-primary-3-3-2026">midterm election season</a>&nbsp;that will test Trump’s slim GOP control of Congress.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer left the closed hearing, saying he was concerned about “mission creep” in a long war.

Senators demand answers, and some cheer Trump on

Senators spent the morning grilling Trump officials during an Armed Services Committee hearing over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-68d78b2215cc6c021937859ce852e1f2">Rubio’s claim</a>&nbsp;Monday that the president, believing that Israel was ready to act, decided it was better for the U.S. to launch a preemptive strike to prevent Iran’s potential retaliation on American military bases and interests abroad.

Sen. Angus King, the independent from Maine, said it’s “very disturbing” that Trump took the U.S. to war because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-netanyahu-trump-support-ef032c6370bd31294cab5641a57ba8af">Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;wanted to bomb Iran. Past U.S. presidents, he said, “have consistently said, ‘No.’”

Defense official Elbridge Colby told senators the president directed the military campaign to destroy Iranian missiles and deny the country nuclear weapons.

Trump himself disputed the idea that Israel had forced his hand. In his own Oval Office remarks, he said, “I might might have forced their hand.”

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, a Trump ally from Oklahoma, said the president “did the world a favor.”

“How about we say, ‘Thank you, Mr. President, for finally getting rid of this nuisance,’” he said.

But Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., demanded to know how this fits into Trump’s “America First” campaign promise not to commit U.S. troops to protracted military campaigns abroad.

Trump has suggested the war could drag on, and has not ruled out sending American troops into Iran.

“’America First’ and ‘peace through strength’ are served by rolling back — as the military campaign is designed to do — the threats posed,” Colby responded. “This is certainly not nation-building. This is not going to be endless.”

What’s next for the Iranian regime and its people

Questions are growing over who will lead Iran after the death of Khamenei, who has ruled the country for decades, and worries of a leadership vacuum that creates unrest.

Democrats warned against sending U.S. military troops into Iran after more than two decades of war in Iraq and Afghanistan in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

“I am more fearful than ever we may be putting boots on the ground,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., after the closed briefing.

And while House Republicans applauded in support of the Trump administration’s operations, warning signs flared.

Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, said he supports the operation, for now. “My flag starts going up, the longer this goes, my flag starts going up, the more there’s boots on the ground,” he said.

Many lawmakers expressed concern over the number of Americans calling their offices seeking help evacuating from the region as the war spreads. “It’s getting worse, not better,” said Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., a former Army Ranger.

Trump, in calling for Iranians to seize this opportunity to take back their country, has acknowledged the uncertainty.

“Most of the people we had in mind are dead,” Trump said Tuesday. He also panned the idea of elevating Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran’s last shah, to take over in Iran.

Republicans insist it’s not for the Americans to decide the future of Iran.

“That’s going to be largely up to the Iranian people,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said flatly, “We have no ability to get into the nation-building business.”

War powers resolutions become a consequential vote

Both the House and Senate are preparing to vote on war powers resolutions that would restrain Trump’s ability to continue waging war on Iran without approval from Congress.

Under the U.S. Constitution, it’s up to Congress, not the president, to decide when the country goes to war. But lawmakers often shirk that duty, enabling the executive branch to amass more power to send the military into combat without congressional approval.

“Why are we spending billions of dollars to bomb Iran?” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who said there would be strong support from Democrats for the resolution.

But Johnson has said it would be “frightening” and “dangerous” to tie the president’s hands at this time, when the U.S. is already engaged in combat.

Other lawmakers have suggested that if Congress does not vote to restrain Trump, it should next consider an Authorization of the Use of Military Force, which would require lawmakers to go on record with affirmative support for the Iran operation.

“The reason why there’s so much consternation on our side is because President Trump has not given us a clear reason why he is in Iran,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y. “If he wants to declare war on Iran, that is the job and responsibility of Congress under the Constitution.”

Former President George W. Bush sought, and received, authorization from Congress to launch the post-9/11 wars.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Tensions flared as questions mounted at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday over the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump</a>&nbsp;administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-68d78b2215cc6c021937859ce852e1f2">shifting rationale</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">war with Iran</a>&nbsp;as lawmakers demand answers over the strategy, exit plan and costs to Americans in lives and dollars for what is quickly becoming a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-war-israel-strait-or-hormuz-deaths-f1619c6bfbbd5fe10857ff0af073aa0e">widening Middle East conflict</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenSchumer</a>: &quot;It&#39;s been four days since the Trump administration launched the U.S. into a war most Americans oppose…I left the intelligence briefing more concerned than reassured.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/oKLEXN5tJn">pic.twitter.com/oKLEXN5tJn</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028926928846000413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;The President has not ruled out boots on the ground…When does Congress weigh in?&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderJohnThune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderJohnThune</a>: &quot;The President has broad authorities under Article 2 of the Constitution when it comes to defending America&#39;s national security interests.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/W44e90s3zm">pic.twitter.com/W44e90s3zm</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028927309206475196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Do you think…Congress would have to authorize any military action against Iran beyond the 60-day or 90-day window?&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderJohnThune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderJohnThune</a>: &quot;No. I think the President has the authority that he needs to conduct the activities, the operations that are currently underway there.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/MQPwOUKMRS">pic.twitter.com/MQPwOUKMRS</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028924606921294128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump officials made their case at the Capitol during a second day of closed-door briefings, this time with all members of the House and Senate ahead of a looming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-constitution-37ec6685d9ded1d467a719f91e537487">war powers resolution</a>&nbsp;vote intended to restrict Trump’s ability to continue the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-netanyahu-trump-support-ef032c6370bd31294cab5641a57ba8af">joint U.S.-Israel campaign</a>&nbsp;against Iran.“The president determined we were not going to get hit first. It’s that simple,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a testy exchange with reporters at the Capitol.Rubio pushed back on his own&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-68d78b2215cc6c021937859ce852e1f2">suggestion</a>&nbsp;a day earlier that Trump decided to strike Iran because Israel was ready to act first. Instead, he said Trump made the decision to attack this past weekend because it presented a unique opportunity with maximum chance for success.“There is no way in the world that this terroristic regime was going to get nuclear weapons, not under Donald Trump’s watch,” he said.The sudden pivot to a U.S. wartime footing has disrupted the political and policy agenda on Capitol Hill and raised uneasy questions about the risks ahead for a prolonged conflict and regime change after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-supreme-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-dead-5b13b69b708c4ed38e8f95f5fb41a597">killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>. At least&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-soldiers-who-died-iran-war-46f54df716fe1c5290363da0a15f99f3">six U.S. military service personnel have died</a>&nbsp;so far.The situation has intensified the push in Congress for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/war-powers-act-trump-congress-9e6832fb5f5f844acf8992008d3a8d63">war powers resolution</a>&nbsp;— among the most consequential votes a lawmaker can take, with the war well underway — as administration officials are telling lawmakers they will likely need supplemental funds to pay for the conflict. It comes at the start of a highly competitive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/election-primary-3-3-2026">midterm election season</a>&nbsp;that will test Trump’s slim GOP control of Congress.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer left the closed hearing, saying he was concerned about “mission creep” in a long war.<h2>Senators demand answers, and some cheer Trump on</h2>Senators spent the morning grilling Trump officials during an Armed Services Committee hearing over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-68d78b2215cc6c021937859ce852e1f2">Rubio’s claim</a>&nbsp;Monday that the president, believing that Israel was ready to act, decided it was better for the U.S. to launch a preemptive strike to prevent Iran’s potential retaliation on American military bases and interests abroad.Sen. Angus King, the independent from Maine, said it’s “very disturbing” that Trump took the U.S. to war because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-netanyahu-trump-support-ef032c6370bd31294cab5641a57ba8af">Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;wanted to bomb Iran. Past U.S. presidents, he said, “have consistently said, ‘No.’”Defense official Elbridge Colby told senators the president directed the military campaign to destroy Iranian missiles and deny the country nuclear weapons.Trump himself disputed the idea that Israel had forced his hand. In his own Oval Office remarks, he said, “I might might have forced their hand.”Sen. Markwayne Mullin, a Trump ally from Oklahoma, said the president “did the world a favor.”“How about we say, ‘Thank you, Mr. President, for finally getting rid of this nuisance,’” he said.But Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., demanded to know how this fits into Trump’s “America First” campaign promise not to commit U.S. troops to protracted military campaigns abroad.Trump has suggested the war could drag on, and has not ruled out sending American troops into Iran.“’America First’ and ‘peace through strength’ are served by rolling back — as the military campaign is designed to do — the threats posed,” Colby responded. “This is certainly not nation-building. This is not going to be endless.”<h2>What’s next for the Iranian regime and its people</h2>Questions are growing over who will lead Iran after the death of Khamenei, who has ruled the country for decades, and worries of a leadership vacuum that creates unrest.Democrats warned against sending U.S. military troops into Iran after more than two decades of war in Iraq and Afghanistan in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.“I am more fearful than ever we may be putting boots on the ground,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., after the closed briefing.And while House Republicans applauded in support of the Trump administration’s operations, warning signs flared.Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, said he supports the operation, for now. “My flag starts going up, the longer this goes, my flag starts going up, the more there’s boots on the ground,” he said.Many lawmakers expressed concern over the number of Americans calling their offices seeking help evacuating from the region as the war spreads. “It’s getting worse, not better,” said Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., a former Army Ranger.Trump, in calling for Iranians to seize this opportunity to take back their country, has acknowledged the uncertainty.“Most of the people we had in mind are dead,” Trump said Tuesday. He also panned the idea of elevating Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran’s last shah, to take over in Iran.Republicans insist it’s not for the Americans to decide the future of Iran.“That’s going to be largely up to the Iranian people,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican.House Speaker Mike Johnson said flatly, “We have no ability to get into the nation-building business.”<h2>War powers resolutions become a consequential vote</h2>Both the House and Senate are preparing to vote on war powers resolutions that would restrain Trump’s ability to continue waging war on Iran without approval from Congress.Under the U.S. Constitution, it’s up to Congress, not the president, to decide when the country goes to war. But lawmakers often shirk that duty, enabling the executive branch to amass more power to send the military into combat without congressional approval.“Why are we spending billions of dollars to bomb Iran?” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who said there would be strong support from Democrats for the resolution.But Johnson has said it would be “frightening” and “dangerous” to tie the president’s hands at this time, when the U.S. is already engaged in combat.Other lawmakers have suggested that if Congress does not vote to restrain Trump, it should next consider an Authorization of the Use of Military Force, which would require lawmakers to go on record with affirmative support for the Iran operation.“The reason why there’s so much consternation on our side is because President Trump has not given us a clear reason why he is in Iran,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y. “If he wants to declare war on Iran, that is the job and responsibility of Congress under the Constitution.”Former President George W. Bush sought, and received, authorization from Congress to launch the post-9/11 wars.___

🎥Tensions flare: Lawmakers question Iran war’s costs, risks and strategy

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post Sports

HAYS - The Hays High Indians held Eisenhower scoreless for the final 4:15 of the game in a 66-51 victory to advance to the sub-state championship game.

The Tigers scored first and took what turned out to be their only lead of the game at 2-0. Dawson Ruder scored Hays' (19-4) next eight points on what turned out to be a big night from the senior.

The Indians pushed their advantage to nine in the first quarter before settling for a 16-8 lead after eight minutes.

Hays held three different ten point leads in the second quarter. Trey Oakley provided the first two at 18-8 and 21-11 on five of his 12 points. Miles Day provided the final ten point lead of the quarter on a three pointer with 1:30 left before halftime. The Tigers responded with five points in the final thirty seconds. The second of the two field goals went through the net as time expired for a 29-24 halftime score.

Eisenhower never took the lead in the second half, but they threatened to. Hays led by two possession for a vast majority of the third quarter. The Tigers tied it in the final minute of the third quarter on back-to-back field goals for a score of 43-43. Oakley nailed a pair of free throws to give the Indians the edge at 45-43 entering the fourth quarter.

Eisenhower once again tied the game 45 with the first points of the fourth quarter. That is when Ruder took over again, scoring seven of his career high tying 35 points for a 52-45 Indian lead.

The Tigers pushed back one final time with six consecutive points and made the game a point affair at 52-51 with 4:15 remaining. It was the final time Eisenhower scored.

Hays scored the games' final 14 points. Izaac Fox led off with a pair of free throws followed by four straight points by each Ruder and Brody Harmoney, who scored in double-figures for the second time this season at 10 points. Ruder provided the final four points all from the free throw line for the 66-51 victory.

The 35 points that Ruder scored puts him three behind Brady Werth for most points in a career. Ruder currently has 1,136. Ruder added 11 rebounds to his stat line for his sixth double-double of the season. He has scored 68 points and grabbed 26 rebounds in the last two games.

The Indians advance to the sub-state championship game where they will face the fourth seeded Topeka Seaman Vikings (20-4) who defeated Valley Center (10-14) at home 73-51. That game will take place at 6:00.

Pfeifer 1, Homeier 0, Oakley 12, Harmoney 10, Fox 4, Smalley 0, Day 4, Ruder 35.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post SportsHAYS - The Hays High Indians held Eisenhower scoreless for the final 4:15 of the game in a 66-51 victory to advance to the sub-state championship game.The Tigers scored first and took what turned out to be their only lead of the game at 2-0. Dawson Ruder scored Hays' (19-4) next eight points on what turned out to be a big night from the senior.The Indians pushed their advantage to nine in the first quarter before settling for a 16-8 lead after eight minutes.Hays held three different ten point leads in the second quarter. Trey Oakley provided the first two at 18-8 and 21-11 on five of his 12 points. Miles Day provided the final ten point lead of the quarter on a three pointer with 1:30 left before halftime. The Tigers responded with five points in the final thirty seconds. The second of the two field goals went through the net as time expired for a 29-24 halftime score.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2277116621&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-mbkb-vs-goddard-1" title="HHS MBKB vs Goddard Eisenhower Highlights 03-03-2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB vs Goddard Eisenhower Highlights 03-03-2026</a></div></div>Eisenhower never took the lead in the second half, but they threatened to. Hays led by two possession for a vast majority of the third quarter. The Tigers tied it in the final minute of the third quarter on back-to-back field goals for a score of 43-43. Oakley nailed a pair of free throws to give the Indians the edge at 45-43 entering the fourth quarter.Eisenhower once again tied the game 45 with the first points of the fourth quarter. That is when Ruder took over again, scoring seven of his career high tying 35 points for a 52-45 Indian lead.The Tigers pushed back one final time with six consecutive points and made the game a point affair at 52-51 with 4:15 remaining. It was the final time Eisenhower scored.Hays scored the games' final 14 points. Izaac Fox led off with a pair of free throws followed by four straight points by each Ruder and Brody Harmoney, who scored in double-figures for the second time this season at 10 points. Ruder provided the final four points all from the free throw line for the 66-51 victory.Coach Sean Dreiling<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2277116582&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-mbkb-vs-goddard-eisenhower" title="HHS MBKB vs Goddard Eisenhower Coach Sean Dreiling Postgame 03-03-2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB vs Goddard Eisenhower Coach Sean Dreiling Postgame 03-03-2026</a></div></div>The 35 points that Ruder scored puts him three behind Brady Werth for most points in a career. Ruder currently has 1,136. Ruder added 11 rebounds to his stat line for his sixth double-double of the season. He has scored 68 points and grabbed 26 rebounds in the last two games.The Indians advance to the sub-state championship game where they will face the fourth seeded Topeka Seaman Vikings (20-4) who defeated Valley Center (10-14) at home 73-51. That game will take place at 6:00.Pfeifer 1, Homeier 0, Oakley 12, Harmoney 10, Fox 4, Smalley 0, Day 4, Ruder 35.

🏀 Hays High advances to sub-state championship

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Sports

MEDICINE LODGE – The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs turned in another solid defensive
performance, holding their seventh opponent to 40
points as they advanced to the sub-state championship game on Saturday in Smith
Center with a 57-33 victory Tuesday in Medicine Lodge.

It took both teams a couple of minutes to break onto the
scoreboard, but after Bria Windholtz's free throw, with just over five and a half
minutes left in the first quarter, got TMP on the board, and they never looked back,
leading wire-to-wire.

TMP (16-7) quickly opened the game on an 8-0 run before
Medicine Lodge closed within three, at 8-5, with less than two minutes
remaining in the first quarter.

Paige Koenigsman closed out the first quarter with the first
of three first-half three-pointers, putting TMP up 11-5 after the first quarter.

Out of the quarter break, Koenigsman connected on her second
three-pointer, and she finished with a career-high 12 points off the bench for TMP,
giving the Monarchs a 14-5 lead.

Just a couple of minutes later, Adi Gottschalk connected on
her first three-pointer of the season, and Koenigsman added her third of the
first half, putting TMP up 22-7.

The Monarchs held that 15-point lead throughout the
remainder of the first half and led by 19 at halftime,32-13.

TMP maintained the 19-point lead at the end of the third quarter, 41-22.

In the final frame, Medicine Lodge (17-6) closed the gap to
14 before the Monarchs pulled away again in a 57-33 victory.

Brynn Rebel matched her season-high with 15 points to lead
all scorers. Paige Koenigsman added a career-high 12 points, and Claire Schippers
finished with 10 points. Bria Windholz added nine rebounds.

TMP will take on Ellinwood in Friday’s sub-state
championship game after the Eagles defeated Smith Center 54-31 Tuesday.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post SportsMEDICINE LODGE – The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs turned in another solid defensive
performance, holding their seventh opponent to 40
points as they advanced to the sub-state championship game on Saturday in Smith
Center with a 57-33 victory Tuesday in Medicine Lodge.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2277096347&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/03-03-26-tmp-wbkb-vs-medicine" title="03-03-26 TMP WBKB vs Medicine Lodge Coach Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">03-03-26 TMP WBKB vs Medicine Lodge Coach Interview</a></div></div>It took both teams a couple of minutes to break onto the
scoreboard, but after Bria Windholtz's free throw, with just over five and a half
minutes left in the first quarter, got TMP on the board, and they never looked back,
leading wire-to-wire.TMP (16-7) quickly opened the game on an 8-0 run before
Medicine Lodge closed within three, at 8-5, with less than two minutes
remaining in the first quarter.Paige Koenigsman closed out the first quarter with the first
of three first-half three-pointers, putting TMP up 11-5 after the first quarter.Out of the quarter break, Koenigsman connected on her second
three-pointer, and she finished with a career-high 12 points off the bench for TMP,
giving the Monarchs a 14-5 lead.Just a couple of minutes later, Adi Gottschalk connected on
her first three-pointer of the season, and Koenigsman added her third of the
first half, putting TMP up 22-7.The Monarchs held that 15-point lead throughout the
remainder of the first half and led by 19 at halftime,32-13.TMP maintained the 19-point lead at the end of the third quarter, 41-22.In the final frame, Medicine Lodge (17-6) closed the gap to
14 before the Monarchs pulled away again in a 57-33 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2277096962&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/03-03-26-tmp-wbkb-vs-1" title="03-03-26 TMP WBKB vs Medicine Lodge Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">03-03-26 TMP WBKB vs Medicine Lodge Highlights</a></div></div>Brynn Rebel matched her season-high with 15 points to lead
all scorers. Paige Koenigsman added a career-high 12 points, and Claire Schippers
finished with 10 points. Bria Windholz added nine rebounds.TMP will take on Ellinwood in Friday’s sub-state
championship game after the Eagles defeated Smith Center 54-31 Tuesday.

🏀 Monarchs' defense proves too much for Medicine Lodge

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Khamari McGriff scored 18 points and Nate Johnson scored 16 points and Kansas State delivered another blow to West Virginia's NCAA Tournament hopes holding off the Mountaineers 65-63 on Tuesday night.

Reserve Chance Moore scored 18 points, Brenen Lorient scored 14 points, reserve DJ Thomas 12 and Honor Huff 11 for West Virginia.

It was the first win of the season for the Wildcats in which they didn't score 81-or-more points.

PJ Haggerty, the nation’s third-leading scorer, was unexpectedly scratched from the Wildcats' lineup posted an hour-and-a-half before the 7 p.m. CT tip-off.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/sports/college/cat-zone/2026/02/19/kansas-state-basketball-coach-candidates-hot-board-jerome-tang-fired/88664100007/">Haggerty wasn't listed on the team’s initial availability</a>&nbsp;report released Monday.

Kansas State said in a release that Haggerty sustained an injury in practice in recent days. He’s listed day-to-day ahead of Saturday’s matchup at Kansas. Haggerty, the Wildcats’ starting point guard, entered Tuesday night second in the Big 12 in scoring, averaging 23.3 points per game.

Despite his absence Kansas State (12-18, 3-14) used a 21-0 run to take a 48-31 lead with 10:53 remaining, its longest scoring run of the season.

But the Wildcats proceeded to leave the door open failing to score a field goal in the final 3:48. McGriff made two free throws for a 57-39 lead with a 7:29 left.

West Virginia (17-13, 8-9) then outscored the Wildcats 19-1 down the stretch and got to with 61-58 with 48 seconds left before McGriff and Johnson each made foul shots to secure the win.

West Virginia: Wraps up the regular season on Friday against UCF.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772623372440.png" alt="Kansas State's Nate Johnson (34) dribbles the ball in the first half of the Wildcats Big 12 game against West Virginia on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State's Nate Johnson (34) dribbles the ball in the first half of the Wildcats Big 12 game against West Virginia on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 in Manhattan, Kan. (Kansas State Athletics photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — Khamari McGriff scored 18 points and Nate Johnson scored 16 points and Kansas State delivered another blow to West Virginia's NCAA Tournament hopes holding off the Mountaineers 65-63 on Tuesday night.Reserve Chance Moore scored 18 points, Brenen Lorient scored 14 points, reserve DJ Thomas 12 and Honor Huff 11 for West Virginia.It was the first win of the season for the Wildcats in which they didn't score 81-or-more points.PJ Haggerty, the nation’s third-leading scorer, was unexpectedly scratched from the Wildcats' lineup posted an hour-and-a-half before the 7 p.m. CT tip-off.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/sports/college/cat-zone/2026/02/19/kansas-state-basketball-coach-candidates-hot-board-jerome-tang-fired/88664100007/">Haggerty wasn't listed on the team’s initial availability</a>&nbsp;report released Monday.Kansas State said in a release that Haggerty sustained an injury in practice in recent days. He’s listed day-to-day ahead of Saturday’s matchup at Kansas. Haggerty, the Wildcats’ starting point guard, entered Tuesday night second in the Big 12 in scoring, averaging 23.3 points per game.Despite his absence Kansas State (12-18, 3-14) used a 21-0 run to take a 48-31 lead with 10:53 remaining, its longest scoring run of the season.But the Wildcats proceeded to leave the door open failing to score a field goal in the final 3:48. McGriff made two free throws for a 57-39 lead with a 7:29 left.West Virginia (17-13, 8-9) then outscored the Wildcats 19-1 down the stretch and got to with 61-58 with 48 seconds left before McGriff and Johnson each made foul shots to secure the win.<h2>Up next</h2>West Virginia: Wraps up the regular season on Friday against UCF.

🏀 McGriff and Johnson help Kansas State hold off West Virginia 

Remigia “Midge”
Koerner, 97, Hays, passed away Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at Hays Medical
Center.

She was born
April 28, 1928, in Hays, the daughter of Peter and Annastasia (Schaffer)
Schuvie. She graduated from Girls Catholic High in 1946. Immediately after
graduation, Midge started her career at Southwestern Bell (AT&amp;T) as a
switchboard operator and later worked in the Business Office before retirement.
After retirement, she kept busy helping her sisters, brothers, nieces and
nephews as well as great nieces and great nephews with whatever they needed
done.

Midge married
Vern Koerner on May 28th, 1957 in Hays. They shared 68 wonderful years of
marriage and welcomed their son, Kevin, in 1960. She lived in that same home
for over 66 years and always said she loved her home. She and Vern always loved
when family and friends would come over to visit. Many great Christmases were
held at their home.

She was a member
of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and Hays VFW Post #9076 Auxiliary.
As a founding participant of the Adoration of Christ at its original 13th
Street location, she carried that spirit of worship with her throughout her
entire life.&nbsp; While her family was her
heart, her unwavering Catholic faith was her compass. She was a tireless
”prayer warrior”, perpetually adding names to her prayer list and finding
solace in her rosary and prayer books. To her family, she was a constant source
of spiritual strength who never hesitated to offer a prayer for those she
loved. Her greatest happiness remained her family, especially the time she
shared with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Midge is
survived by her son Kevin Koerner and wife Lynn of Hays. She will be dearly
missed by her grandchildren Shea Koerner and wife Anne Drees of Centennial,
Colorado and Annastasia Rose Koerner of Denver, Colorado: and her
great-granddaughter Cecilia Rose Bird of Denver, Colorado, along with many
nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

She was preceded
in death by her husband Vernon, her parents Peter and Annastasia Schuvie, and
her 12 brothers and sisters, Adolph, Victor, Anton, Gilbert, Wilfred, Alfred,
Leo, Peter, Ann, Romilda, Eleanor, and Nadyne.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.  Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Friday March 13, 2026 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 9:00 am until service time on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at church.  A VFW Auxiliary Rosary will be at 6:00 pm followed by a vigil service at 6:30 pm, all on Friday, at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Catholic Charities or for masses.  Condolences and memories of Midge may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772200325866.jpeg" alt="Remigia "Midge" Koerner" />
 <figcaption>Remigia "Midge" Koerner</figcaption>
 </figure>Remigia “Midge”
Koerner, 97, Hays, passed away Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at Hays Medical
Center.She was born
April 28, 1928, in Hays, the daughter of Peter and Annastasia (Schaffer)
Schuvie. She graduated from Girls Catholic High in 1946. Immediately after
graduation, Midge started her career at Southwestern Bell (AT&amp;T) as a
switchboard operator and later worked in the Business Office before retirement.
After retirement, she kept busy helping her sisters, brothers, nieces and
nephews as well as great nieces and great nephews with whatever they needed
done.Midge married
Vern Koerner on May 28th, 1957 in Hays. They shared 68 wonderful years of
marriage and welcomed their son, Kevin, in 1960. She lived in that same home
for over 66 years and always said she loved her home. She and Vern always loved
when family and friends would come over to visit. Many great Christmases were
held at their home.She was a member
of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and Hays VFW Post #9076 Auxiliary.
As a founding participant of the Adoration of Christ at its original 13th
Street location, she carried that spirit of worship with her throughout her
entire life.&nbsp; While her family was her
heart, her unwavering Catholic faith was her compass. She was a tireless
”prayer warrior”, perpetually adding names to her prayer list and finding
solace in her rosary and prayer books. To her family, she was a constant source
of spiritual strength who never hesitated to offer a prayer for those she
loved. Her greatest happiness remained her family, especially the time she
shared with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Midge is
survived by her son Kevin Koerner and wife Lynn of Hays. She will be dearly
missed by her grandchildren Shea Koerner and wife Anne Drees of Centennial,
Colorado and Annastasia Rose Koerner of Denver, Colorado: and her
great-granddaughter Cecilia Rose Bird of Denver, Colorado, along with many
nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.She was preceded
in death by her husband Vernon, her parents Peter and Annastasia Schuvie, and
her 12 brothers and sisters, Adolph, Victor, Anton, Gilbert, Wilfred, Alfred,
Leo, Peter, Ann, Romilda, Eleanor, and Nadyne.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Inurnment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Friday March 13, 2026 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 9:00 am until service time on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at church. A VFW Auxiliary Rosary will be at 6:00 pm followed by a vigil service at 6:30 pm, all on Friday, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Catholic Charities or for masses. Condolences and memories of Midge may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Remigia 'Midge' Koerner, 97

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission discussed the process for reviewing and approving plats for future subdevelopment projects during its Tuesday meeting.

Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested not approving development plats until the county's subdivision regulations are updated.

"I thought now would be a good time to pause and reevaluate some of the topics that we've seen arise in the past several zoning certificates that have been awarded," Leiker said.

County Counselor Bill Jeter said there are inconsistencies in the language of zoning regulations that need clarification, but that does not warrant temporarily halting new applications.

"In some instances, we've got inconsistent languages in one part of the regulation as opposed to another part of the regulation," Jeter said.

The commission described it as fine-tuning regulations based on its experiences with past subdevelopments. The commission will compile a list of concerns to create potential updates.

Commissioners agreed to exclude Big Creek Estates Third Addition and the pending Tallgrass development solar project from any future regulatory changes.

Minimum road design and construction standards

The commission approved updating minimum road design and construction standards for roads in platted subdivisions and developments.

The standards set minimum requirements for roadway and drainage improvements, and outline a process for owners of subdivisions to request exceptions to those standards.

Kansas local bridge improvement program agreement

The commission approved a Kansas Department of Transportation agreement to improve three bridges after the county was awarded about $4.36 million.

These include one bridge that goes over the Saline River, one on Saline River Road and one in the 2100 block of 100th Avenue.

• The commission heard an update on the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center project. An open house of the center is set for April 16

• The commission reappointed Dylan Bryant to the county library board as his current term expires on April 30. He will serve a new four-year term

• The commission approved a request to send Ellis County Health Department staff to attend the 2026 Governor's Public Health Conference. Their office will be closed from March 30 to April 1.

• The commission approved the County Appraiser's extension request to delay the mailing of real property certified valuation notices from the March 1 deadline to March 16.

• The commission conducted an annual examination of revenue and expenses reports from townships. County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling verified that the reports are accurate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission discussed the process for reviewing and approving plats for future subdevelopment projects during its Tuesday meeting.Commissioner Nathan Leiker suggested not approving development plats until the county's subdivision regulations are updated."I thought now would be a good time to pause and reevaluate some of the topics that we've seen arise in the past several zoning certificates that have been awarded," Leiker said.County Counselor Bill Jeter said there are inconsistencies in the language of zoning regulations that need clarification, but that does not warrant temporarily halting new applications."In some instances, we've got inconsistent languages in one part of the regulation as opposed to another part of the regulation," Jeter said.The commission described it as fine-tuning regulations based on its experiences with past subdevelopments. The commission will compile a list of concerns to create potential updates.Commissioners agreed to exclude Big Creek Estates Third Addition and the pending Tallgrass development solar project from any future regulatory changes.Minimum road design and construction standardsThe commission approved updating minimum road design and construction standards for roads in platted subdivisions and developments.The standards set minimum requirements for roadway and drainage improvements, and outline a process for owners of subdivisions to request exceptions to those standards.Kansas local bridge improvement program agreementThe commission approved a Kansas Department of Transportation agreement to improve three bridges after the county was awarded about $4.36 million.These include one bridge that goes over the Saline River, one on Saline River Road and one in the 2100 block of 100th Avenue.Other business• The commission heard an update on the High Plains Mental Health Crisis Intervention Center project. An open house of the center is set for April 16• The commission reappointed Dylan Bryant to the county library board as his current term expires on April 30. He will serve a new four-year term• The commission approved a request to send Ellis County Health Department staff to attend the 2026 Governor's Public Health Conference. Their office will be closed from March 30 to April 1.• The commission approved the County Appraiser's extension request to delay the mailing of real property certified valuation notices from the March 1 deadline to March 16.• The commission conducted an annual examination of revenue and expenses reports from townships. County Clerk Bobbi Dreiling verified that the reports are accurate.

Ellis County Commission discusses updating plat approval process

Join our new Hays Post Newsletter and receive the top news stories from your community every morning in your email inbox plus one-click access to the latest obituaries.&nbsp;

Join our new Hays Post Newsletter and receive the top news stories from your community every morning in your email inbox plus one-click access to the latest obituaries.&nbsp;Sign up today for free.<div><script src="https://xp.audience.io/widget.js"></script>

<div class="aptivada-widget" data-widget-id="1732609" data-widget-type="app" >
 <div>
 <div style="background:#ffffff url('https://cdn3.aptivada.com/images/iframeLoader.gif') no-repeat center; min-height:500px;"></div>
 <a style="display:block; max-width: fit-content; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank" href="https://xp.audience.io/contest/1732609">Campaign not loading? Click here</a>
 </div>
</div></div>

Sign up for free Hays Post Newsletter

The City of Hays Fire Department will began its annual citywide fire hydrant inspection and flow testing program on Monday, March 2. This coordinated effort ensures the reliability of the city’s water and fire protection infrastructure.

Annual maintenance is critical for public safety and water quality.

Inspecting the hydrants ensures that all valves operate properly and identifies any damage or obstructions that could interfere with prompt use during an emergency.

Additionally, firefighters conduct flow testing to check the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood, verifying the system is adequately prepared for firefighting operations.

The process also plays a vital role in maintaining the city's water quality.

The associated flushing of the water mains allows chlorine to be distributed thoroughly throughout the system, which eliminates bio-filming and prevents sediment buildup in the pipes.

"Regular hydrant flushing is a necessary component of our community's fire readiness and public health," said Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. "By flow testing and inspecting these hydrants annually, we can guarantee our crews have the pressure and volume they need when responding to emergencies, while simultaneously maintaining the integrity of our water delivery system."

While the visual of water discharging onto streets may raise conservation concerns, the actual volume used during this maintenance is minimal.

During the short flushing periods, residents may encounter a slight discoloration of their water supply.

This is a normal result of the process and poses no health risk to consumers.

The Hays Fire Department will take all reasonable efforts to minimize inconvenience to the public.

Drivers are asked to avoid driving through water discharging from fire hydrants to maintain safety and prevent property damage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615927348562.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Fire DepartmentThe City of Hays Fire Department will began its annual citywide fire hydrant inspection and flow testing program on Monday, March 2. This coordinated effort ensures the reliability of the city’s water and fire protection infrastructure.Annual maintenance is critical for public safety and water quality.Inspecting the hydrants ensures that all valves operate properly and identifies any damage or obstructions that could interfere with prompt use during an emergency.Additionally, firefighters conduct flow testing to check the pressure and volume of water mains in each neighborhood, verifying the system is adequately prepared for firefighting operations.The process also plays a vital role in maintaining the city's water quality.The associated flushing of the water mains allows chlorine to be distributed thoroughly throughout the system, which eliminates bio-filming and prevents sediment buildup in the pipes."Regular hydrant flushing is a necessary component of our community's fire readiness and public health," said Fire Chief Ryan Hagans. "By flow testing and inspecting these hydrants annually, we can guarantee our crews have the pressure and volume they need when responding to emergencies, while simultaneously maintaining the integrity of our water delivery system."While the visual of water discharging onto streets may raise conservation concerns, the actual volume used during this maintenance is minimal.During the short flushing periods, residents may encounter a slight discoloration of their water supply.This is a normal result of the process and poses no health risk to consumers.The Hays Fire Department will take all reasonable efforts to minimize inconvenience to the public.Drivers are asked to avoid driving through water discharging from fire hydrants to maintain safety and prevent property damage.Specific flushing areas will be updated daily and posted to the City of Hays website and official social media channels. For more information, please contact the Hays Fire Department at 785-628-7330, or visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/">HaysUSA.com</a>.