DODGE
CITY – The Hays High softball team opened up Western Athletic Conference play
with a convincing 15-0 win over Dodge City Tuesday at Legends Field. The Indians
(5-0, 1-0 WAC) struck early with five in the top of the first then added two in
the second and three in the third in the game which was called after three
innings by run-rule.

Riley
Dreher had three of the Indians 13 hits and drove in three runs. Brynlee Rupp,
Brooklynn Dinkel and Avery Solida all added two hits. Brynlee Brous and Solida
both drove in two runs.

Dreher
(4-0) allowed one hit with two strikeouts and no walks and picked up the win in
the circle.

The
Indians opened the game with back-to-back walks. Dreher pushed across the first
run with a single to right. Brous followed with an RBI single. Dreher scored
the third run on a steal. Shae Augustine added an RBI single and later scored
on a steal of home.

Dreher
pushed the lead to 6-0 with an RBI triple in the second. Brous drove in a run
on a sacrifice fly to left.

Hays
opened the third inning with three straight singles. Jaylee Summers had the
third which drove in a run. Lauren Klein and Dreher followed with RBI singles. Klein
later scored on a passed ball. Dreher scored on a RBI single from Rupp. RBI singles
from Dinkel and Solida rounded out the scoring.

Hays Post SportsDODGE
CITY – The Hays High softball team opened up Western Athletic Conference play
with a convincing 15-0 win over Dodge City Tuesday at Legends Field. The Indians
(5-0, 1-0 WAC) struck early with five in the top of the first then added two in
the second and three in the third in the game which was called after three
innings by run-rule.Riley
Dreher had three of the Indians 13 hits and drove in three runs. Brynlee Rupp,
Brooklynn Dinkel and Avery Solida all added two hits. Brynlee Brous and Solida
both drove in two runs.Dreher
(4-0) allowed one hit with two strikeouts and no walks and picked up the win in
the circle.The
Indians opened the game with back-to-back walks. Dreher pushed across the first
run with a single to right. Brous followed with an RBI single. Dreher scored
the third run on a steal. Shae Augustine added an RBI single and later scored
on a steal of home.Dreher
pushed the lead to 6-0 with an RBI triple in the second. Brous drove in a run
on a sacrifice fly to left.Hays
opened the third inning with three straight singles. Jaylee Summers had the
third which drove in a run. Lauren Klein and Dreher followed with RBI singles. Klein
later scored on a passed ball. Dreher scored on a RBI single from Rupp. RBI singles
from Dinkel and Solida rounded out the scoring.UP
NEXT

🥎 Hays High cruises past Dodge City in WAC opener

MONKEY ISLAND, Okla. – The Fort Hays State women's golf team finished 19th at the Spring Regional Preview, held Monday (April 7) and Tuesday (April 8) at Shangri-La Golf Club &amp; Resort in Monkey Island, Okla. The course played as a par-72 and spanned 5,813 yards.

The Tigers opened the event with a 343 in round one, then improved by a stroke on day two, posting a 342 for a two-round total of 685.

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;led Fort Hays State with rounds of 79 and 81, tying for 64th at 16-over par.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;followed, tying for 84th with rounds of 85 and 80 for a 165 (+21).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/abbie-norris/8373">Abbie Norris</a>&nbsp;finished in 103rd after scores of 92 and 88 (+36), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;placed 104th with a total of 181 in rounds of 88 and 93 (+37).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>, competing as an individual, shot 91 and 98 to finish 105th at 189 (+45).The Tigers managed four birdies and 70 pars as a team across the two rounds. York finished with three while Norris had one.

Henderson State claimed the team title with a stellar total of 574 (-2), while Felisa Sajulga from Henderson State earned medalist honors at 8-under par, carding rounds of 70 and 66.

The team will take a week off as they prepare themselves for the MIAA Championships at the Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in Kearney, Neb. Tournament is set for Sunday (April 13) to Tuesday (April 15).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744193485784.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Dee Welsch" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Dee Welsch</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsMONKEY ISLAND, Okla. – The Fort Hays State women's golf team finished 19th at the Spring Regional Preview, held Monday (April 7) and Tuesday (April 8) at Shangri-La Golf Club &amp; Resort in Monkey Island, Okla. The course played as a par-72 and spanned 5,813 yards.The Tigers opened the event with a 343 in round one, then improved by a stroke on day two, posting a 342 for a two-round total of 685.<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/shayla-nordlund/8372">Shayla Nordlund</a>&nbsp;led Fort Hays State with rounds of 79 and 81, tying for 64th at 16-over par.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/hayden-york/8339">Hayden York</a>&nbsp;followed, tying for 84th with rounds of 85 and 80 for a 165 (+21).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/abbie-norris/8373">Abbie Norris</a>&nbsp;finished in 103rd after scores of 92 and 88 (+36), and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/emma-walz/8374">Emma Walz</a>&nbsp;placed 104th with a total of 181 in rounds of 88 and 93 (+37).&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/womens-golf/roster/kiley-maier/8371">Kiley Maier</a>, competing as an individual, shot 91 and 98 to finish 105th at 189 (+45).The Tigers managed four birdies and 70 pars as a team across the two rounds. York finished with three while Norris had one.Henderson State claimed the team title with a stellar total of 574 (-2), while Felisa Sajulga from Henderson State earned medalist honors at 8-under par, carding rounds of 70 and 66.The team will take a week off as they prepare themselves for the MIAA Championships at the Meadowlark Hills Golf Course in Kearney, Neb. Tournament is set for Sunday (April 13) to Tuesday (April 15).&nbsp;&nbsp;

⛳ FHSU women's finish 19th at Spring Regional Preview

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>

WASHINGTON — The IRS and Department of Homeland Security reached an agreement Monday to share tax information of immigrants who have final orders of removal to help immigration agents find and deport the immigrants, according to documents filed in court.

No information between the two agencies has been shared yet, according&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.30.1_1.pdf" target="_blank">to the filings</a>&nbsp;in federal court in the District of Columbia, but the partnership would impact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/removal-system-united-states-overview" target="_blank">more than 1 million immigrants</a>&nbsp;with final removal orders, as the Trump administration carries out mass deportations of immigrants without permanent legal status.

According to a memorandum of understanding signed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and submitted to the court, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials can ask the IRS to provide information about immigrants with orders of removal or immigrants involved in criminal investigations.

Some of that tax information includes sensitive details such as current addresses and information about child tax dependents.

It would be the first time the IRS shared sensitive tax information to carry out immigration enforcement.

In 2023, immigrants in the country without legal authority paid more than $89 billion in taxes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/topics/tax-contributions" target="_blank">according to the left-leaning think tank the American Immigration Council.</a>

In order to file taxes without a social security number, someone who is not a U.S. citizen would use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or an&nbsp;ITIN. As of 2022, there were more than 5.8 million active&nbsp;ITINs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2024-11/2024400012fr.pdf" target="_blank">according to a report by the Treasury Department Inspect General</a>.

The government filed the document in a case brought by immigration rights groups the Centro de Trabajadores Unidos and Immigrant Solidarity DuPage. The groups are trying to block the IRS from sharing tax records with DHS for immigration enforcement, arguing that such sharing violates IRS disclosure laws.

The Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.31.0.pdf" target="_blank">moved Monday</a>&nbsp;to dismiss the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, arguing that “providing information to assist criminal investigations—is lawful.”

A hearing on a preliminary injunction to block such information sharing between IRS and DHS is set for April 16 before federal Judge&nbsp;Dabney L. Friedrich, whom President Donald Trump appointed in 2017.

Friedrich ruled against the groups last month, when they asked for a temporary restraining order following a story by The Washington Post that the agencies were considering sharing information in order to find immigrants to deport.

“A single news report about future cooperation between the IRS and DHS does not establish that the plaintiffs’ members are facing imminent injury,” according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.16.0.pdf" target="_blank">March 19 order.&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744140809307.png" alt="&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ahead of&nbsp; raid in Arizona Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ahead of&nbsp; raid in Arizona Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">ARIANA FIGUEROA</a>WASHINGTON — The IRS and Department of Homeland Security reached an agreement Monday to share tax information of immigrants who have final orders of removal to help immigration agents find and deport the immigrants, according to documents filed in court.No information between the two agencies has been shared yet, according&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.30.1_1.pdf" target="_blank">to the filings</a>&nbsp;in federal court in the District of Columbia, but the partnership would impact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/removal-system-united-states-overview" target="_blank">more than 1 million immigrants</a>&nbsp;with final removal orders, as the Trump administration carries out mass deportations of immigrants without permanent legal status.According to a memorandum of understanding signed by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and submitted to the court, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials can ask the IRS to provide information about immigrants with orders of removal or immigrants involved in criminal investigations.Some of that tax information includes sensitive details such as current addresses and information about child tax dependents.It would be the first time the IRS shared sensitive tax information to carry out immigration enforcement.In 2023, immigrants in the country without legal authority paid more than $89 billion in taxes,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/topics/tax-contributions" target="_blank">according to the left-leaning think tank the American Immigration Council.</a>In order to file taxes without a social security number, someone who is not a U.S. citizen would use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or an&nbsp;ITIN. As of 2022, there were more than 5.8 million active&nbsp;ITINs,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tigta.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2024-11/2024400012fr.pdf" target="_blank">according to a report by the Treasury Department Inspect General</a>.<h2>Groups challenging information sharing</h2>The government filed the document in a case brought by immigration rights groups the Centro de Trabajadores Unidos and Immigrant Solidarity DuPage. The groups are trying to block the IRS from sharing tax records with DHS for immigration enforcement, arguing that such sharing violates IRS disclosure laws.The Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.31.0.pdf" target="_blank">moved Monday</a>&nbsp;to dismiss the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, arguing that “providing information to assist criminal investigations—is lawful.”A hearing on a preliminary injunction to block such information sharing between IRS and DHS is set for April 16 before federal Judge&nbsp;Dabney L. Friedrich, whom President Donald Trump appointed in 2017.Friedrich ruled against the groups last month, when they asked for a temporary restraining order following a story by The Washington Post that the agencies were considering sharing information in order to find immigrants to deport.“A single news report about future cooperation between the IRS and DHS does not establish that the plaintiffs’ members are facing imminent injury,” according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147/gov.uscourts.dcd.278147.16.0.pdf" target="_blank">March 19 order.&nbsp;</a>Last updated 1:17 p.m., Apr. 8, 2025

IRS to share immigrants’ tax info with DHS

LONDON (AP) — Instagram users under 16 won’t be able to livestream or unblur nudity in direct messages they’ve received without parental approval, owner Meta Platforms said Tuesday as it widened its safety measures for teenagers.

The social media company also said it was extending safeguards for users under 18 to Facebook and Messenger.

Meta launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/instagram-meta-teen-accounts-kids-425a05cc37f81b6ff2b7439d3884c54a">teen account program</a>&nbsp;for Instagram in September to give parents more options to supervise their children’s online activity amid a growing backlash against how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/surgeon-general-social-media-mental-health-df321c791493863001754401676f165c">social media affects</a>&nbsp;the lives of young people.

The latest changes will roll out first to users in the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia, before going out to global users in the following months.

Under the changes, teens under 16 are blocked from using Instagram Live unless parents give permission. They also need permission to “turn off our feature that blurs images containing suspected nudity” in direct messages, Meta said in a blog post.

In another major update, Meta said it’s extending the teen account safeguards to its Facebook and Messenger platforms,

These will include protections already in place for teen Instagram users, including setting teen accounts to private by default, blocking private messages from strangers, strict limits on sensitive content like fight videos, reminders to get off the app after 60 minutes and notifications that are halted during bedtime hours.

“Teen Accounts on Facebook and Messenger will offer similar, automatic protections to limit inappropriate content and unwanted contact, as well as ways to ensure teens’ time is well spent,” Meta said.

The company said at least 54 million teen accounts have been set up since the program launched in September.

LONDON (AP) — Instagram users under 16 won’t be able to livestream or unblur nudity in direct messages they’ve received without parental approval, owner Meta Platforms said Tuesday as it widened its safety measures for teenagers.The social media company also said it was extending safeguards for users under 18 to Facebook and Messenger.Meta launched its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/instagram-meta-teen-accounts-kids-425a05cc37f81b6ff2b7439d3884c54a">teen account program</a>&nbsp;for Instagram in September to give parents more options to supervise their children’s online activity amid a growing backlash against how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/surgeon-general-social-media-mental-health-df321c791493863001754401676f165c">social media affects</a>&nbsp;the lives of young people.The latest changes will roll out first to users in the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia, before going out to global users in the following months.Under the changes, teens under 16 are blocked from using Instagram Live unless parents give permission. They also need permission to “turn off our feature that blurs images containing suspected nudity” in direct messages, Meta said in a blog post.In another major update, Meta said it’s extending the teen account safeguards to its Facebook and Messenger platforms,These will include protections already in place for teen Instagram users, including setting teen accounts to private by default, blocking private messages from strangers, strict limits on sensitive content like fight videos, reminders to get off the app after 60 minutes and notifications that are halted during bedtime hours.“Teen Accounts on Facebook and Messenger will offer similar, automatic protections to limit inappropriate content and unwanted contact, as well as ways to ensure teens’ time is well spent,” Meta said.The company said at least 54 million teen accounts have been set up since the program launched in September.

New rules will limit kids under 16 on Instagram 

SCOTT CITY - The Hays High boys tennis team finished in third place at Tuesday's Scott City Invitational.

Ken Shaffer went 3-0 and won No. 2 singles. Kale Schwein went 2-1 and placed second at No. 1 singles.

The No. 1 doubles team of Preston Parr and Mason Schleicher went 2-2 and finished in fifth place as the did the No. 2 doubles team of Christian Miller and Madox Zimmerman.

The Indians host their own invitational on Monday, April 14.

Hays Post SportsSCOTT CITY - The Hays High boys tennis team finished in third place at Tuesday's Scott City Invitational.Ken Shaffer went 3-0 and won No. 2 singles. Kale Schwein went 2-1 and placed second at No. 1 singles.The No. 1 doubles team of Preston Parr and Mason Schleicher went 2-2 and finished in fifth place as the did the No. 2 doubles team of Christian Miller and Madox Zimmerman.The Indians host their own invitational on Monday, April 14.

🎾 HHS boys third at Scott City, Shaffer wins No. 2 singles

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with&nbsp;Andrea Wichers about the use of adaptive technology in the local special education cooperative.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: USD 489 Adaptive Technology for Students with Disabilities" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=nysgu-186ea18-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney speaks with&nbsp;Andrea Wichers about the use of adaptive technology in the local special education cooperative.

🎙Post Podcast: Adaptive speech, language technology in local school districts

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Get ready for a splash of color, as paintball may be the next big thrill in Ellis County.

Imagine Ellis County hosted its first Think-Tank Throwdown Thursday in downtown Hays to explore opportunities to improve the county.

Ellis County residents pitched their ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to bring their visions to life. Leigh Purdy earned first place and secured a contract with Imagine Ellis County to carry out her project in memory of a former classmate.

"Hays is famous for disc golf. Let's make it famous for paintball, too," Purdy said.

Purdy proposed the Cody Joseph Younger Memorial Paintball Park. Similar to a skate park, it would be a free, bring-your-own-gear facility to provide local youth and families with safe and exciting outdoor recreation.

Preliminary location ideas for the 0.5 to 1-acre facility included Elizabeth Polly Park and Daniel G. Rupp Memorial Park in Hays. However, Purdy said she is open to placing it in other Ellis County communities.

The youth and activity center would promote teamwork, strategy and physical activity through paintball games like capture the flag, team deathmatch, king of the hill and battle royale.

Purdy said the facility could also offer options for airsoft, laser tag and Nerf guns.

"This would encourage teamwork and strategy," she said.

Purdy detailed the costs and materials in her presentation, saying the project would stay within a $2,500 to $5,000 budget. She hopes to secure donated materials as well.

Materials include plastic culverts, rain barrels, wooden spools, sandbags, tires and concrete barriers.

Purdy said the Hays Park Department could provide maintenance assistance, with volunteers and local service clubs also participating.

Purdy said there is a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment, which has the potential to engage local businesses and boost tourism.

With the nearest paintball park 90 miles away in Assaria, Purdy said there's a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment. She highlighted the potential to generate local business engagement and boost tourism.

"I love the opportunity to honor my late friend and bring something really cool to Ellis County. Thank you for allowing us this opportunity," she said.

Anthony Hurla proposed a nonprofit recreational facility focusing on a paintball course. The long-term vision is to expand into a full-scale activity center featuring go-karts, laser tag, roller hockey and rock climbing.

Hurla's plan is to start with a low-impact paintball park, which he described as the most cost-effective option for kids and adults,  offering an affordable, accessible and alcohol-free environment.

According to James Robben, Grow Hays' director of business development and special projects, Hurla and Purdy will work together due to their similar ideas.

Hurla’s proposal also suggested using profits to support road repairs, building improvements and other needs in Ellis County. He placed second in the competition.

Other ideas presented at the Think-Tank Throwdown included a vending ice machine at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, an organic greenhouse and affordable tiny homes to help address the housing shortage.

The remaining participants will be connected with community members who can help develop their projects. Grow Hays intern Elizabeth Noble led the Think-Tank Throwdown, which was judged by a panel of three.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744054667048.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostGet ready for a splash of color, as paintball may be the next big thrill in Ellis County.Imagine Ellis County hosted its first Think-Tank Throwdown Thursday in downtown Hays to explore opportunities to improve the county.Ellis County residents pitched their ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to bring their visions to life. Leigh Purdy earned first place and secured a contract with Imagine Ellis County to carry out her project in memory of a former classmate."Hays is famous for disc golf. Let's make it famous for paintball, too," Purdy said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744055097182.jpeg" alt="Leigh Purdy awarded a certificate for her Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Leigh Purdy awarded a certificate for her Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Purdy proposed the Cody Joseph Younger Memorial Paintball Park. Similar to a skate park, it would be a free, bring-your-own-gear facility to provide local youth and families with safe and exciting outdoor recreation.Preliminary location ideas for the 0.5 to 1-acre facility included Elizabeth Polly Park and Daniel G. Rupp Memorial Park in Hays. However, Purdy said she is open to placing it in other Ellis County communities.The youth and activity center would promote teamwork, strategy and physical activity through paintball games like capture the flag, team deathmatch, king of the hill and battle royale.Purdy said the facility could also offer options for airsoft, laser tag and Nerf guns."This would encourage teamwork and strategy," she said.Purdy detailed the costs and materials in her presentation, saying the project would stay within a $2,500 to $5,000 budget. She hopes to secure donated materials as well.Materials include plastic culverts, rain barrels, wooden spools, sandbags, tires and concrete barriers.Purdy said the Hays Park Department could provide maintenance assistance, with volunteers and local service clubs also participating.Purdy said there is a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment, which has the potential to engage local businesses and boost tourism.With the nearest paintball park 90 miles away in Assaria, Purdy said there's a regional demand for this type of youth entertainment. She highlighted the potential to generate local business engagement and boost tourism."I love the opportunity to honor my late friend and bring something really cool to Ellis County. Thank you for allowing us this opportunity," she said.<h2>Nonprofit activity center</h2>Anthony Hurla proposed a nonprofit recreational facility focusing on a paintball course. The long-term vision is to expand into a full-scale activity center featuring go-karts, laser tag, roller hockey and rock climbing.Hurla's plan is to start with a low-impact paintball park, which he described as the most cost-effective option for kids and adults, offering an affordable, accessible and alcohol-free environment.According to James Robben, Grow Hays' director of business development and special projects, Hurla and Purdy will work together due to their similar ideas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744055140568.jpeg" alt="Anthony Hurla awarded a certificate for his Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Hurla awarded a certificate for his Think-Tank Throwdown proposal hosted by Imagine Ellis County intern Elizabeth Noble. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Hurla’s proposal also suggested using profits to support road repairs, building improvements and other needs in Ellis County. He placed second in the competition.Other ideas presented at the Think-Tank Throwdown included a vending ice machine at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, an organic greenhouse and affordable tiny homes to help address the housing shortage.The remaining participants will be connected with community members who can help develop their projects. Grow Hays intern Elizabeth Noble led the Think-Tank Throwdown, which was judged by a panel of three.

Imagine Ellis County awards contract for paintball facility

John 'Johnny' Braun age 94, passed away April 5, 2025, at his home in Victoria,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born August 1,1930, on the family farm west of Victoria,
the middle of nine children to Raymond P. and Agnes (Staab) Braun.&nbsp; On
November 20, 1954, he married Josephine (Josie) Riedel in Walker, KS.&nbsp;
They had seven children.

John was a carpenter, a builder, and a farmer.&nbsp; He worked for Levin Kuhn
House Moving, and Victoria Lumber Company for many years.&nbsp; He was a 1949
graduate of Victoria High School, and a veteran of the U.S. Army.&nbsp; He was
drafted into military service from 1951 to 1953 serving in the Korean
War.&nbsp; He joined the Knights of Columbus in 1953 serving as Grand Knight in
1992, became a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus in 1984 serving as
Faithful Navigator in 1990,&nbsp; was a lifetime VFW member, and serving on the
color guard for military funeral services.&nbsp; He was Post Commander from
2003-2005 and again from 2007-2009. John was a member of the Basilica of St
Fidelis and lead many a rosary in church and at wake services.&nbsp; He also
served on the USD 432 School Board and St. Fidelis Parish Council.

John is survived by his wife, Josie, of the home; his children, James Braun and
wife, Sandy, Brighton, CO; Janet Giersch and husband, Larry, Hays, KS; Joseph
Braun and Thom Jackson, Wamego, KS; Joan Rourke and husband Kevin, Russell, KS;
John R. Braun and wife, Connie, Victoria, KS; Judy Brummer and husband,
Stephen, Hays, KS;&nbsp;

Jerry
Braun, Hays, KS; his twelve grandchildren; Jessica Butte and husband, Zachary;
Sarah Seibel and husband, Brett; Alicia Bruce and husband, Mike; Emily Nuttle
and husband, Dalton; Alan Rourke and wife Ryan; Kelli Rourke and Andrei Gurau;
Eric Rourke and wife, McKaleigh; Kyle Rourke; Caroline Shivers and husband,
Kevin; Amanda Disberger and husband, Jay; Ethan Brummer and fiancé, Chloe
Plumer; Ella Brummer;&nbsp;his sixteen great grandchildren; his sisters-in-law, Stella Braun, Hays, KS; Zita Riedel, Mission, KS  and Marilyn Riedel, Overland Park, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Agnes Braun; his
brothers, Charles Braun and wives, Lucille and Lillian; Albert Braun; Elmer
Braun; his sisters, Clara Baier and husband, Loren; Irene Leiker and husband,
Clarence; Fidelia Honas and husband, Eddie; Lillian Braun; and Theresa Kuhn and
husband, Oliver.

A&nbsp; Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 12,
2025. at the Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas
with celebrant, Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap.

Burial will follow in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with military
honors by the Victoria V.F.W. Post 1751.&nbsp; 

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. Friday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
Victoria, then from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M.
Saturday, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas, 

A Rosary with the 3rd &amp; 4th Degree Knights of
Columbus/V.F.W./Daughters of Isabella, will be at 6:45 P.M. Friday, followed
by a vigil service at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis.

The family suggests memorials made payable to: the Windholz-Kuhn V.F.W. Post #
1751 in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas
67671.&nbsp;

Condolences can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744058881646.jpeg" alt="John 'Johnny' Braun" />
 <figcaption>John 'Johnny' Braun</figcaption>
 </figure>John 'Johnny' Braun age 94, passed away April 5, 2025, at his home in Victoria,
Kansas.&nbsp; He was born August 1,1930, on the family farm west of Victoria,
the middle of nine children to Raymond P. and Agnes (Staab) Braun.&nbsp; On
November 20, 1954, he married Josephine (Josie) Riedel in Walker, KS.&nbsp;
They had seven children.John was a carpenter, a builder, and a farmer.&nbsp; He worked for Levin Kuhn
House Moving, and Victoria Lumber Company for many years.&nbsp; He was a 1949
graduate of Victoria High School, and a veteran of the U.S. Army.&nbsp; He was
drafted into military service from 1951 to 1953 serving in the Korean
War.&nbsp; He joined the Knights of Columbus in 1953 serving as Grand Knight in
1992, became a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus in 1984 serving as
Faithful Navigator in 1990,&nbsp; was a lifetime VFW member, and serving on the
color guard for military funeral services.&nbsp; He was Post Commander from
2003-2005 and again from 2007-2009. John was a member of the Basilica of St
Fidelis and lead many a rosary in church and at wake services.&nbsp; He also
served on the USD 432 School Board and St. Fidelis Parish Council.John is survived by his wife, Josie, of the home; his children, James Braun and
wife, Sandy, Brighton, CO; Janet Giersch and husband, Larry, Hays, KS; Joseph
Braun and Thom Jackson, Wamego, KS; Joan Rourke and husband Kevin, Russell, KS;
John R. Braun and wife, Connie, Victoria, KS; Judy Brummer and husband,
Stephen, Hays, KS;&nbsp;Jerry
Braun, Hays, KS; his twelve grandchildren; Jessica Butte and husband, Zachary;
Sarah Seibel and husband, Brett; Alicia Bruce and husband, Mike; Emily Nuttle
and husband, Dalton; Alan Rourke and wife Ryan; Kelli Rourke and Andrei Gurau;
Eric Rourke and wife, McKaleigh; Kyle Rourke; Caroline Shivers and husband,
Kevin; Amanda Disberger and husband, Jay; Ethan Brummer and fiancé, Chloe
Plumer; Ella Brummer;&nbsp;his sixteen great grandchildren; his sisters-in-law, Stella Braun, Hays, KS; Zita Riedel, Mission, KS and Marilyn Riedel, Overland Park, KS.He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Agnes Braun; his
brothers, Charles Braun and wives, Lucille and Lillian; Albert Braun; Elmer
Braun; his sisters, Clara Baier and husband, Loren; Irene Leiker and husband,
Clarence; Fidelia Honas and husband, Eddie; Lillian Braun; and Theresa Kuhn and
husband, Oliver.A&nbsp; Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 12,
2025. at the Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave., Victoria, Kansas
with celebrant, Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap.Burial will follow in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas with military
honors by the Victoria V.F.W. Post 1751.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. Friday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
Victoria, then from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M.
Saturday, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas, A Rosary with the 3rd &amp; 4th Degree Knights of
Columbus/V.F.W./Daughters of Isabella, will be at 6:45 P.M. Friday, followed
by a vigil service at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis.The family suggests memorials made payable to: the Windholz-Kuhn V.F.W. Post #
1751 in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas
67671.&nbsp;Condolences can be emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

John 'Johnny' Braun

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will consider purchasing furniture for the new high school building at its meeting at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The board is asking to approve purchases not to exceed $1 million&nbsp;from Circadia.

The board will also be asked to approve the purchase of flat panel displays from KCAV for $127,812 for the new Hays High building.

The board will discuss school fees for the 2025-26 school year. The list of fees was not included in the public board packet.

The board will also hear reports from the district's librarians and an update on the district's new vehicle fleet program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608234493687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will consider purchasing furniture for the new high school building at its meeting at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.The board is asking to approve purchases not to exceed $1 million&nbsp;from Circadia.The board will also be asked to approve the purchase of flat panel displays from KCAV for $127,812 for the new Hays High building.The board will discuss school fees for the 2025-26 school year. The list of fees was not included in the public board packet.The board will also hear reports from the district's librarians and an update on the district's new vehicle fleet program.

Hays USD 489 school board to consider $1M in furniture purchases for new high school

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DEVI%20SHASTRI%20and%20AMANDA%20SEITZ%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DEVI SHASTRI and AMANDA SEITZ Associated Press</a>

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-robert-kennedy-vaccines-measles-steak-shake-9c970a1f6bdfd6ac4b4160480e996ac0">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;visited the epicenter of Texas' still-growing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-mmr-vaccine-texas-rfk-ff8e744b19ead87698d7217de02814ee">measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, the same day a funeral was held for a second young child who was not vaccinated and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-new-mexico-vaccine-rfk-d5444b3397ac7c4034e63becc219aa33">died from a measles-related illness</a>.

Kennedy said in a social media post that he was working to “control the outbreak" and went to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">Gaines County</a>&nbsp;to comfort the families who have buried two young children. He was seen late Sunday afternoon outside of a Mennonite church where the funeral services were held, but he did not attend a nearby news conference held by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the outbreak.

Seminole is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/sxSwi/">epicenter of the outbreak,</a>&nbsp;which started in late January and continues to swell — with nearly 500 cases in Texas alone, plus cases from the outbreak believed to have spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas and Mexico.

The second young child died Thursday from "what the child's doctor described as measles pulmonary failure,” and did not have underlying health conditions, the Texas State Department of State Health Services said Sunday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/texas-announces-second-death-measles-outbreak">in a news release</a>. Aaron Davis, a spokesperson for UMC Health System in Lubbock, said that the child was “receiving treatment for complications of measles while hospitalized.”

This is the third known measles-related death tied to this outbreak. One was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">another elementary school-aged child</a>&nbsp;in Texas and the other was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">an adult in New Mexico</a>; neither were vaccinated.

It's Kennedy's first visit to the area as health secretary, where he said he met with families of both the 6- and 8-year-old children who died. He said he “developed bonds” with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-vaccinations-mennonites-4880035d6fd53cc029b531f5adda95ad">Mennonite community in West Texas</a>&nbsp;in which the virus is mostly spreading.

Kennedy, an anti-vaccine advocate before ascending to the role of nation’s top health secretary earlier this year, has resisted urging widespread vaccinations as the measles outbreak has worsened under his watch. On Sunday, however, he said in a lengthy statement posted on X that it was “the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles."

The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine has been used safely for more than 60 years and is 97% effective against measles after two doses.

Dr. Manisha Patel, CDC incident manager, said in a Sunday news conference that the MMR vaccine is the best way to protect against measles. She also told parents in Gaines County that it was important not to “delay care” for a child who is sick with measles.

“Call your doctor and make sure you’re talking to a health care professional who can guide you on those next steps," Patel said.

CDC teams arrived in early March, Patel said. But Kennedy's social media post noted that CDC employees have been “redeployed,” and the nation’s public health agency never relayed it had pulled back. Neither the CDC nor the state health department included the death in their measles reports issued Friday, but the CDC acknowledged it when asked Sunday.

The number of cases in Texas shot up by 81 between March 28 and April 4, and 16 more people were hospitalized. Nationwide, the U.S. has more than double the number of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-mmr-vaccine-texas-rfk-ff8e744b19ead87698d7217de02814ee">measles cases</a>&nbsp;it saw in all of 2024.

Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy from Louisiana,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-confirmation-vaccines-health-kennedy-cassidy-248bfb16aa3a2a117efa54a2a3be920e">a liver doctor</a>&nbsp;whose vote helped cinch Kennedy’s confirmation, called Sunday for stronger messaging from health officials&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenBillCassidy/status/1908903799701303633">in a post on X</a>.

“Everyone should be vaccinated! There is no treatment for measles. No benefit to getting measles,” he wrote. “Top health officials should say so unequivocally b/4 another child dies.”

Cassidy has requested&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-samoa-measles-kennedy-vaccines-pacific-42a9cb583c71f165699b16710884c474">Kennedy</a>&nbsp;to appear before his health committee Thursday, although Kennedy has not publicly confirmed whether he will attend.

A CDC spokesperson noted the efficacy of the measles vaccine Sunday but stopped short of calling on people to get it. Departing from long-standing public health messaging around vaccination, the spokesperson called the decision a “personal one” and encouraged people to talk with their doctor. People “should be informed about the potential risks and benefits associated with vaccines," the spokesperson added.

Misinformation about how to prevent and treat measles is hindering a robust public health response, including claims about vitamin A supplements that have been pushed by Kennedy and holistic medicine supporters despite doctors’ warnings that it should be given under a physician's orders and that too much can be dangerous.

Doctors at Covenant Children's Hospital in Lubbock, where the first measles death occurred, say they've treated fewer than 10 children for liver issues from vitamin A toxicity, which they found when running routine lab tests on children who are not fully vaccinated and have measles. Dr. Lara Johnson, chief medical officer, said the patients reported using vitamin A to treat and prevent the virus.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fda-vaccine-chief-peter-marks-resign-rfk-kennedy-7743be11cec4e4e22c50c2ddbcb6bcd8">Dr. Peter Marks, the Food and Drug Administration’s former vaccine chief</a>, said responsibility for the death rests with Kennedy and his staff. Marks was forced out of the FDA after disagreements with Kennedy over vaccine safety.

“This is the epitome of an absolute needless death,” Marks told The Associated Press in an interview Sunday. “These kids should get vaccinated — that’s how you prevent people from dying of measles.”

Marks also said he recently warned U.S. senators that more deaths would occur if the administration didn’t mount a more aggressive response to the outbreak.

Experts and local health officials expect the outbreak to go on for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">several more months</a>&nbsp;if not a year. In West Texas, the vast majority of cases are in unvaccinated people and children younger than 17.

With several states facing outbreaks of the vaccine-preventable disease — and declining childhood vaccination rates nationwide — some worry that measles may cost the U.S. its status as having eliminated the disease.

Measles is a respiratory virus that can survive in the air for up to two hours. Up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/index.html">according to the CDC</a>. The first shot is recommended for children ages 12 to 15 months, and the second for ages 4 to 6 years.

Seitz reported from Washington. Photojournalist Annie Rice in Seminole, Texas, and AP reporter Matthew Perrone in Washington contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743980668440.png" alt="Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., right, arrives at Reinlander Mennonite Church after a second measles death, Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Seminole, Texas. (AP Photo/Annie Rice)" />
 <figcaption>Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., right, arrives at Reinlander Mennonite Church after a second measles death, Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Seminole, Texas. (AP Photo/Annie Rice)</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DEVI%20SHASTRI%20and%20AMANDA%20SEITZ%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DEVI SHASTRI and AMANDA SEITZ Associated Press</a>U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-robert-kennedy-vaccines-measles-steak-shake-9c970a1f6bdfd6ac4b4160480e996ac0">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;visited the epicenter of Texas' still-growing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-mmr-vaccine-texas-rfk-ff8e744b19ead87698d7217de02814ee">measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, the same day a funeral was held for a second young child who was not vaccinated and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-new-mexico-vaccine-rfk-d5444b3397ac7c4034e63becc219aa33">died from a measles-related illness</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In Seminole, Texas, with Jake and Tina Fehr whose 2-year-old daughter, Helena was just discharged after three weeks in the ICU, Peter and Eva Fehr whose daughter, Kayley, 6, passed in February, and Pete and Eva Hildebrand whose daughter, Daisy, 8, we buried this afternoon. I also… <a href="https://t.co/BjErlRkCJX">pic.twitter.com/BjErlRkCJX</a>&mdash; Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecKennedy/status/1909049021211263268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I came to­ Gaines County, Texas, today to comfort the Hildebrand family after the loss of their 8-year-old daughter Daisy. I got to know the family of 6-year-old Kayley Fehr after she passed away in February. I also developed bonds with and deep affection for other members of…&mdash; Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecKennedy/status/1908967854394982414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kennedy said in a social media post that he was working to “control the outbreak" and went to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">Gaines County</a>&nbsp;to comfort the families who have buried two young children. He was seen late Sunday afternoon outside of a Mennonite church where the funeral services were held, but he did not attend a nearby news conference held by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the outbreak.Seminole is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/sxSwi/">epicenter of the outbreak,</a>&nbsp;which started in late January and continues to swell — with nearly 500 cases in Texas alone, plus cases from the outbreak believed to have spread to New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas and Mexico.The second young child died Thursday from "what the child's doctor described as measles pulmonary failure,” and did not have underlying health conditions, the Texas State Department of State Health Services said Sunday&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/texas-announces-second-death-measles-outbreak">in a news release</a>. Aaron Davis, a spokesperson for UMC Health System in Lubbock, said that the child was “receiving treatment for complications of measles while hospitalized.”This is the third known measles-related death tied to this outbreak. One was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">another elementary school-aged child</a>&nbsp;in Texas and the other was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">an adult in New Mexico</a>; neither were vaccinated.It's Kennedy's first visit to the area as health secretary, where he said he met with families of both the 6- and 8-year-old children who died. He said he “developed bonds” with the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-vaccinations-mennonites-4880035d6fd53cc029b531f5adda95ad">Mennonite community in West Texas</a>&nbsp;in which the virus is mostly spreading.Kennedy, an anti-vaccine advocate before ascending to the role of nation’s top health secretary earlier this year, has resisted urging widespread vaccinations as the measles outbreak has worsened under his watch. On Sunday, however, he said in a lengthy statement posted on X that it was “the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744031234394.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine has been used safely for more than 60 years and is 97% effective against measles after two doses.Dr. Manisha Patel, CDC incident manager, said in a Sunday news conference that the MMR vaccine is the best way to protect against measles. She also told parents in Gaines County that it was important not to “delay care” for a child who is sick with measles.“Call your doctor and make sure you’re talking to a health care professional who can guide you on those next steps," Patel said.CDC teams arrived in early March, Patel said. But Kennedy's social media post noted that CDC employees have been “redeployed,” and the nation’s public health agency never relayed it had pulled back. Neither the CDC nor the state health department included the death in their measles reports issued Friday, but the CDC acknowledged it when asked Sunday.The number of cases in Texas shot up by 81 between March 28 and April 4, and 16 more people were hospitalized. Nationwide, the U.S. has more than double the number of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-mmr-vaccine-texas-rfk-ff8e744b19ead87698d7217de02814ee">measles cases</a>&nbsp;it saw in all of 2024.Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy from Louisiana,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-confirmation-vaccines-health-kennedy-cassidy-248bfb16aa3a2a117efa54a2a3be920e">a liver doctor</a>&nbsp;whose vote helped cinch Kennedy’s confirmation, called Sunday for stronger messaging from health officials&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenBillCassidy/status/1908903799701303633">in a post on X</a>.“Everyone should be vaccinated! There is no treatment for measles. No benefit to getting measles,” he wrote. “Top health officials should say so unequivocally b/4 another child dies.”Cassidy has requested&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-samoa-measles-kennedy-vaccines-pacific-42a9cb583c71f165699b16710884c474">Kennedy</a>&nbsp;to appear before his health committee Thursday, although Kennedy has not publicly confirmed whether he will attend.A CDC spokesperson noted the efficacy of the measles vaccine Sunday but stopped short of calling on people to get it. Departing from long-standing public health messaging around vaccination, the spokesperson called the decision a “personal one” and encouraged people to talk with their doctor. People “should be informed about the potential risks and benefits associated with vaccines," the spokesperson added.Misinformation about how to prevent and treat measles is hindering a robust public health response, including claims about vitamin A supplements that have been pushed by Kennedy and holistic medicine supporters despite doctors’ warnings that it should be given under a physician's orders and that too much can be dangerous.Doctors at Covenant Children's Hospital in Lubbock, where the first measles death occurred, say they've treated fewer than 10 children for liver issues from vitamin A toxicity, which they found when running routine lab tests on children who are not fully vaccinated and have measles. Dr. Lara Johnson, chief medical officer, said the patients reported using vitamin A to treat and prevent the virus.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fda-vaccine-chief-peter-marks-resign-rfk-kennedy-7743be11cec4e4e22c50c2ddbcb6bcd8">Dr. Peter Marks, the Food and Drug Administration’s former vaccine chief</a>, said responsibility for the death rests with Kennedy and his staff. Marks was forced out of the FDA after disagreements with Kennedy over vaccine safety.“This is the epitome of an absolute needless death,” Marks told The Associated Press in an interview Sunday. “These kids should get vaccinated — that’s how you prevent people from dying of measles.”Marks also said he recently warned U.S. senators that more deaths would occur if the administration didn’t mount a more aggressive response to the outbreak.Experts and local health officials expect the outbreak to go on for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">several more months</a>&nbsp;if not a year. In West Texas, the vast majority of cases are in unvaccinated people and children younger than 17.With several states facing outbreaks of the vaccine-preventable disease — and declining childhood vaccination rates nationwide — some worry that measles may cost the U.S. its status as having eliminated the disease.Measles is a respiratory virus that can survive in the air for up to two hours. Up to 9 out of 10 people who are susceptible will get the virus if exposed,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/hcp/index.html">according to the CDC</a>. The first shot is recommended for children ages 12 to 15 months, and the second for ages 4 to 6 years.___Seitz reported from Washington. Photojournalist Annie Rice in Seminole, Texas, and AP reporter Matthew Perrone in Washington contributed to this report.

RFK Jr. issues new statement on measles outbreak

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen charged as an adult in for a double murder is due back in court Monday.

In December, Judge Shawn Elliot charged 15-year-old Elias Cerda with two counts of first degree murder and one count of attempted aggravated robbery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On Monday morning, Judge Christopher Magana will decide whether there is enough evidence for the trial to continue, according to the district attorney's office.

In January 2024, police responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims later identified as 14-year-old Emoni Shears and 19-year-old Jhiquez Roberts both of Wichita. They were later pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Detectives and patrol officers immediately began investigating this case and following up on leads. Police arrested Cerda, who was 14 at the time. He was booked into the Sedgwick County jail on November 27, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734098604588.png" alt="Cerda photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Cerda photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas teen charged as an adult in for a double murder is due back in court Monday.In December, Judge Shawn Elliot charged 15-year-old Elias Cerda with two counts of first degree murder and one count of attempted aggravated robbery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On Monday morning, Judge Christopher Magana will decide whether there is enough evidence for the trial to continue, according to the district attorney's office.In January 2024, police responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims later identified as 14-year-old Emoni Shears and 19-year-old Jhiquez Roberts both of Wichita. They were later pronounced deceased at the hospital.Detectives and patrol officers immediately began investigating this case and following up on leads. Police arrested Cerda, who was 14 at the time. He was booked into the Sedgwick County jail on November 27, according to online jail records.&nbsp;Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Kan. boy, charged as an adult for double murder, is due back in court

Democrats took to the streets of Hays to protest the Trump administration’s grip on small organizations and the broader economy.

Local Democrats had a Saturday rally called "Hands OFF!" as part of a nationwide movement. Chairwoman of the Ellis County Democratic Party, Anna Towns, said it was an effort to show that rural areas are impacted.

"I had a few people that wanted to be involved but couldn't go to Topeka," Towns said. "We talked about how it's important in our local community to stand up for these issues, show our friends and neighbors that there are real Kansas who are impacted by these things."

The protest challenged federal policies under the Trump administration and Elon Musk, particularly opposing cuts to public services for the benefit of billionaires.

The Facebook event for the gathering stated President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking everything they can, including health care, data, jobs, and services, calling it a 'crisis.'

Event organizer Anniston Weber said a similar protest was taking place in Salina, adding the demonstration's aim was to make progressive voices more visible throughout the region.

"We live in a very rural and conservative area. I think it's important to remind people who are less conservative or more progressive that there are people here they can find kinship in and safety with," Weber said.

Weber said national issues often reach the local level, as federal funding cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have affected nearby organizations.

Weber, who works in the local nonprofit sector, said organizations have been forced to adjust their operations amid federal funding confusion and financial concerns.

"Just because we're a small town doesn't mean that our voices aren't important," Weber said.

Towns said federal policy changes have led to job losses and disruptions for Ellis County residents, particularly in nonprofit work and agricultural research positions.

"I do know that there are people who are involved in our group and people who have spoken to me personally who were part of the rounds of layoffs," she said.

Towns and Weber urged people to stay informed, contact their representatives and legislators, speak up on key issues and help create meaningful change.

More than 75 people attended the protest on a cold and windy afternoon. Weber noted a wider range of participants than the February demonstration, which focused on deportation efforts under the Trump administration.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8fe5763a-34af-4e1c-836f-8ef9697bde30">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays institutions react to deportations; protesters speak out</a>

"Not everybody loves to see a group of progressives standing on the side of the road. I know that it's annoying and people don't want to see people who disagree with them," Weber said. "I hope that somebody, even if it's one person, saw us out there and felt a sense of solidarity or they went away with questions that they will research."

Towns said she hopes attendees leave feeling empowered, less isolated and part of a larger movement. As for the many onlookers who drove by, she hopes they recognized and respected the protesters’ First Amendment rights.

"Part of what's great about being an American is our right to free speech. Anytime that I see groups protesting, whether I agree with them or not, I am comforted to know that we are still able to have a voice and be out here proclaiming our truth to the world."

Towns also said the Ellis County Kansas Democratic Party is working on setting up recurring meetings and welcomes anyone interested in getting involved, regardless of political affiliation.

You can follow the political organization on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/elliscountydems">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885445533.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDemocrats took to the streets of Hays to protest the Trump administration’s grip on small organizations and the broader economy.Local Democrats had a Saturday rally called "Hands OFF!" as part of a nationwide movement. Chairwoman of the Ellis County Democratic Party, Anna Towns, said it was an effort to show that rural areas are impacted."I had a few people that wanted to be involved but couldn't go to Topeka," Towns said. "We talked about how it's important in our local community to stand up for these issues, show our friends and neighbors that there are real Kansas who are impacted by these things."The protest challenged federal policies under the Trump administration and Elon Musk, particularly opposing cuts to public services for the benefit of billionaires.The Facebook event for the gathering stated President Donald Trump and Elon Musk are taking everything they can, including health care, data, jobs, and services, calling it a 'crisis.'Event organizer Anniston Weber said a similar protest was taking place in Salina, adding the demonstration's aim was to make progressive voices more visible throughout the region.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885505495.jpeg" alt="Chair of the Ellis County Democratic Party Anna Towns (left) and event organizer Anniston Weber (right) with protest signs&nbsp;on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Chair of the Ellis County Democratic Party Anna Towns (left) and event organizer Anniston Weber (right) with protest signs&nbsp;on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"We live in a very rural and conservative area. I think it's important to remind people who are less conservative or more progressive that there are people here they can find kinship in and safety with," Weber said.Weber said national issues often reach the local level, as federal funding cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have affected nearby organizations.Weber, who works in the local nonprofit sector, said organizations have been forced to adjust their operations amid federal funding confusion and financial concerns."Just because we're a small town doesn't mean that our voices aren't important," Weber said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885640601.jpeg" alt="A protester with a sign on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A protester with a sign on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885575305.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885681392.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885756447.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Towns said federal policy changes have led to job losses and disruptions for Ellis County residents, particularly in nonprofit work and agricultural research positions."I do know that there are people who are involved in our group and people who have spoken to me personally who were part of the rounds of layoffs," she said.Towns and Weber urged people to stay informed, contact their representatives and legislators, speak up on key issues and help create meaningful change.More than 75 people attended the protest on a cold and windy afternoon. Weber noted a wider range of participants than the February demonstration, which focused on deportation efforts under the Trump administration.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8fe5763a-34af-4e1c-836f-8ef9697bde30">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays institutions react to deportations; protesters speak out</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885853501.jpeg" alt="A protester with a sign on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A protester with a sign on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743885959780.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886034344.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886007749.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Not everybody loves to see a group of progressives standing on the side of the road. I know that it's annoying and people don't want to see people who disagree with them," Weber said. "I hope that somebody, even if it's one person, saw us out there and felt a sense of solidarity or they went away with questions that they will research."Towns said she hopes attendees leave feeling empowered, less isolated and part of a larger movement. As for the many onlookers who drove by, she hopes they recognized and respected the protesters’ First Amendment rights."Part of what's great about being an American is our right to free speech. Anytime that I see groups protesting, whether I agree with them or not, I am comforted to know that we are still able to have a voice and be out here proclaiming our truth to the world."Towns also said the Ellis County Kansas Democratic Party is working on setting up recurring meetings and welcomes anyone interested in getting involved, regardless of political affiliation.You can follow the political organization on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/elliscountydems">Facebook</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886115060.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886273401.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886233567.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886164884.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743886302181.jpeg" alt="A dog&nbsp;with a sign on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A dog&nbsp;with a sign on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine streets in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellis County Democrats rally against Trump's national policies

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Suspected U.S. airstrikes over the weekend targeting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/houthis">Yemen's Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;killed at least six people, the group said Sunday, while a bombing video posted by U.S. President Donald Trump suggested casualties in the overall campaign may be higher than the rebels acknowledge.

A strike Sunday night in Sanaa, the rebel-held capital of Yemen, hit a house, killing at least four people and wounding 16 others, the Houthis said. Their al-Masirah satellite news channel showed images of the damaged home and people receiving care in a hospital.

The strike on the house in Sanaa's Shu’ub district allegedly targeted a Houthi leader, part of a wider decapitation campaign launched by the Trump administration to kill rebel leaders. The intense campaign of U.S. airstrikes targeting the rebels over their attacks on shipping in Mideast waters — related to the Israel-Hamas war —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-us-strikes-iran-447f4abb39cc12c7f2f5596f0e33407b">has killed at least 73 people</a>, according to casualty figures released by the Houthis.

Earlier Sunday, the Iranian-backed Houthis said other suspected U.S. airstrikes killed at least two people in the rebel stronghold of Saada and wounded nine others. Footage aired by al-Masirah showed a strike collapsing what appeared to be a two-story building. The rebels aired no footage from inside the building, which they described as a solar power shop.

The Houthis have not acknowledged any casualties among their security and military leadership — something challenged after an online video posted by Trump.

Trump bombing footage suggests rebel leaders targeted

Early Saturday, Trump posted what appeared to be black-and-white video from a drone of a group of over 70 people gathered in a circle. An explosion detonates during the 25-second video, with a massive crater left in its wake.

“These Houthis gathered for instructions on an attack,” Trump claimed, without offering a location for the attack or any other details about the strike. “Oops, there will be no attack by these Houthis! They will never sink our ships again!”

The U.S. military's Central Command, which oversees America's Mideast military operations, has not published the video, nor offered any specific details about the strikes it has conducted since March 15. The White House has said there have been over 200 strikes so far targeting the Houthis.

The rebel-controlled SABA news agency in Yemen, citing an anonymous source, described the bombing as targeting “a social Eid visit in Hodeida governorate.” Muslims across the world just celebrated Eid al-Fitr, the festival at the end of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. SABA had published images of other commanders meeting fighters during the holiday, though not any high-level Houthi officials.

“Those present at that gathering had no connection to the operations carried out by the (Houthis), which are implementing the decision to ban navigation on ships linked to the American and Israeli enemy,” the SABA report said, adding that the attack killed and wounded “dozens.”

However, the Houthis previously have not acknowledged any strike on Hodeida during that time with such a high casualty count. The SABA report also did not describe those killed as civilians, suggesting they did have ties to the rebels' security or military forces. Hodeida has been a site of Houthi attacks into the Red Sea.

Moammar al-Eryani, the information minister for Yemen's exiled government opposing the Houthis, claimed the strike killed some 70 Houthi fighters and leaders, as well as “experts” from Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. He offered no evidence for the claim, though Iran has backed the Houthis in the war. Neither the Iranian government nor the Guard has not acknowledged the attack.

Mohammed al-Basha, a Yemen expert of the Basha Report risk advisory firm, cited social media condolence notices suggesting a colonel overseeing police stations for the Houthis in Hodeida had been killed in the strike Trump highlighted, alongside his two brothers.

“The strikes have expanded significantly, hitting multiple governorates simultaneously, alongside telecommunications infrastructure, command nodes, properties tied to senior Houthi leadership and previously untouched tunnel networks in mountainous areas,” al-Basha told The Associated Press.

“We’ve also seen direct targeting of Houthi force gatherings, indicating a more aggressive and evolving shift in the targeting strategy,” al-Basha said.

Intense US bombings began nearly a month ago

<a href="https://apnews.com/278d07bc5aad75bb32e57f99a78cbe88">An AP review</a>&nbsp;has found the new American operation against the Houthis under Trump appears&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3WJ-C2gpDA">more extensive</a>&nbsp;than those under former U.S. President Joe Biden, as Washington moves from solely targeting launch sites to firing at ranking personnel and dropping bombs on cities.

The new campaign of airstrikes started after the rebels&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-israel-hamas-war-gaza-aid-ship-attacks-0da6c2453fe2c4e5f81923c84c7d3f3a">threatened to begin targeting “Israeli” ships</a>&nbsp;again over Israel blocking aid entering the Gaza Strip. The rebels have loosely defined what constitutes an Israeli ship, meaning many vessels could be targeted.

The Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/houthi-rebels-ship-attack-red-sea-yemen-bfa7d321e55c5bb59b268b82ef3c56ba">sinking two</a>&nbsp;of them and killing four sailors from November 2023 until January of this year. They also launched attacks targeting American warships without success.

The attacks greatly raised the profile of the Houthis, who faced economic problems and launched a crackdown targeting dissent and aid workers in Yemen amid a decadelong stalemated war that has torn apart the Arab world’s poorest nation.

The campaign shows no signs of stopping as the Trump administration repeatedly has linked its airstrikes on the Houthis to an effort to pressure Iran over its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-program-us-tensions-explains-25acc4bfbbe165a374a58ebfa6a4ab41">rapidly advancing nuclear program</a>.

Associated Press writer Samy Magdy in Cairo contributed.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Suspected U.S. airstrikes over the weekend targeting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/houthis">Yemen's Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;killed at least six people, the group said Sunday, while a bombing video posted by U.S. President Donald Trump suggested casualties in the overall campaign may be higher than the rebels acknowledge.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">These Houthis gathered for instructions on an attack. Oops, there will be no attack by these Houthis! They will never sink our ships again! <a href="https://t.co/lEzfyDgWP5">pic.twitter.com/lEzfyDgWP5</a>&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1908300360810479821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>A strike Sunday night in Sanaa, the rebel-held capital of Yemen, hit a house, killing at least four people and wounding 16 others, the Houthis said. Their al-Masirah satellite news channel showed images of the damaged home and people receiving care in a hospital.The strike on the house in Sanaa's Shu’ub district allegedly targeted a Houthi leader, part of a wider decapitation campaign launched by the Trump administration to kill rebel leaders. The intense campaign of U.S. airstrikes targeting the rebels over their attacks on shipping in Mideast waters — related to the Israel-Hamas war —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-us-strikes-iran-447f4abb39cc12c7f2f5596f0e33407b">has killed at least 73 people</a>, according to casualty figures released by the Houthis.Earlier Sunday, the Iranian-backed Houthis said other suspected U.S. airstrikes killed at least two people in the rebel stronghold of Saada and wounded nine others. Footage aired by al-Masirah showed a strike collapsing what appeared to be a two-story building. The rebels aired no footage from inside the building, which they described as a solar power shop.The Houthis have not acknowledged any casualties among their security and military leadership — something challenged after an online video posted by Trump.<h2>Trump bombing footage suggests rebel leaders targeted</h2>Early Saturday, Trump posted what appeared to be black-and-white video from a drone of a group of over 70 people gathered in a circle. An explosion detonates during the 25-second video, with a massive crater left in its wake.“These Houthis gathered for instructions on an attack,” Trump claimed, without offering a location for the attack or any other details about the strike. “Oops, there will be no attack by these Houthis! They will never sink our ships again!”The U.S. military's Central Command, which oversees America's Mideast military operations, has not published the video, nor offered any specific details about the strikes it has conducted since March 15. The White House has said there have been over 200 strikes so far targeting the Houthis.The rebel-controlled SABA news agency in Yemen, citing an anonymous source, described the bombing as targeting “a social Eid visit in Hodeida governorate.” Muslims across the world just celebrated Eid al-Fitr, the festival at the end of the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. SABA had published images of other commanders meeting fighters during the holiday, though not any high-level Houthi officials.“Those present at that gathering had no connection to the operations carried out by the (Houthis), which are implementing the decision to ban navigation on ships linked to the American and Israeli enemy,” the SABA report said, adding that the attack killed and wounded “dozens.”However, the Houthis previously have not acknowledged any strike on Hodeida during that time with such a high casualty count. The SABA report also did not describe those killed as civilians, suggesting they did have ties to the rebels' security or military forces. Hodeida has been a site of Houthi attacks into the Red Sea.Moammar al-Eryani, the information minister for Yemen's exiled government opposing the Houthis, claimed the strike killed some 70 Houthi fighters and leaders, as well as “experts” from Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. He offered no evidence for the claim, though Iran has backed the Houthis in the war. Neither the Iranian government nor the Guard has not acknowledged the attack.Mohammed al-Basha, a Yemen expert of the Basha Report risk advisory firm, cited social media condolence notices suggesting a colonel overseeing police stations for the Houthis in Hodeida had been killed in the strike Trump highlighted, alongside his two brothers.“The strikes have expanded significantly, hitting multiple governorates simultaneously, alongside telecommunications infrastructure, command nodes, properties tied to senior Houthi leadership and previously untouched tunnel networks in mountainous areas,” al-Basha told The Associated Press.“We’ve also seen direct targeting of Houthi force gatherings, indicating a more aggressive and evolving shift in the targeting strategy,” al-Basha said.<h2>Intense US bombings began nearly a month ago</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/278d07bc5aad75bb32e57f99a78cbe88">An AP review</a>&nbsp;has found the new American operation against the Houthis under Trump appears&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3WJ-C2gpDA">more extensive</a>&nbsp;than those under former U.S. President Joe Biden, as Washington moves from solely targeting launch sites to firing at ranking personnel and dropping bombs on cities.The new campaign of airstrikes started after the rebels&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-rebels-israel-hamas-war-gaza-aid-ship-attacks-0da6c2453fe2c4e5f81923c84c7d3f3a">threatened to begin targeting “Israeli” ships</a>&nbsp;again over Israel blocking aid entering the Gaza Strip. The rebels have loosely defined what constitutes an Israeli ship, meaning many vessels could be targeted.The Houthis targeted more than 100 merchant vessels with missiles and drones,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/houthi-rebels-ship-attack-red-sea-yemen-bfa7d321e55c5bb59b268b82ef3c56ba">sinking two</a>&nbsp;of them and killing four sailors from November 2023 until January of this year. They also launched attacks targeting American warships without success.The attacks greatly raised the profile of the Houthis, who faced economic problems and launched a crackdown targeting dissent and aid workers in Yemen amid a decadelong stalemated war that has torn apart the Arab world’s poorest nation.The campaign shows no signs of stopping as the Trump administration repeatedly has linked its airstrikes on the Houthis to an effort to pressure Iran over its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-program-us-tensions-explains-25acc4bfbbe165a374a58ebfa6a4ab41">rapidly advancing nuclear program</a>.___Associated Press writer Samy Magdy in Cairo contributed.

🎥Houthi rebels say US strikes killed 6; Trump's video suggests higher death toll

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743609948107.png" alt="G&amp;H Worx, LLC&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>G&amp;H Worx, LLC&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SPONSORED: G&amp;H WorX is growing! General Laborer(s) WANTED!G&amp;H WorX is a family-owned and operated fence, sprinkler system and lawncare contractor that provides comprehensive management for residential and commercial clients throughout Kansas.The team is growing and they’re looking for some general laborers to join their team!Position includes:· Full-time employment – 40 hours a week · Safe Environment · Post Construction Cleanup or General Outside work – YOU CHOOSE! · Great Pay! · Awesome Culture!Immediate openings wanted filled soon with the right candidates! Give Brian a call at 785-621-2500. Learn more about G&amp;H WorX at <a href="https://www.ghworx.com/">www.ghworx.com</a>.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays: Economic impact of AMC Theater's closing

Dads and daughters are heading to The Emerald Ball, where the yellow brick road ends in a night of celebration.

The Hays Recreation Commission will host the Wizard of Oz–themed event at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at the Hays Recreation Center, 1105 Canterbury Drive. Registration closes on Wednesday, April 9.

Gail Wickham, youth and senior program director, said the annual event has grown over 19 years and is on track for its largest turnout yet.

"This year, we are up to 82 couples. That's 150 dads and daughters who will be there that night," Wickham said.

The evening will feature a taco bar, photo booth, DJ-led dance, themed games and crafts across the center's gyms. One activity will lead participants through a scavenger hunt using clues to win magical prizes.

Registration is $20 per couple, with an additional $10 for each extra daughter. Wickham said they’ve already reached their initial capacity, but adjustments are being made to welcome more participants.

You can register <a href="https://haysrecweb.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&amp;FMID=19492208&amp;InterfaceParameter=WebTrac_1">online</a>&nbsp;and call Hays Recreation at 785-623-2650 for entry availability.

"It's a good event for dads, daughters, grandpas and uncles. I've even had a mom come with a daughter," Wickham said.

"The kids love it. Dads are always twirling their girls around, and it ends with a dad and daughter dance," she said.

You can follow the Hays Recreation Commission on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/haysrec/">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743452917940.jpeg" alt="Hays Recreation Commission 2023 Princess Ball. Courtesy Photo" />
 <figcaption>Hays Recreation Commission 2023 Princess Ball. Courtesy Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostDads and daughters are heading to The Emerald Ball, where the yellow brick road ends in a night of celebration.The Hays Recreation Commission will host the Wizard of Oz–themed event at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at the Hays Recreation Center, 1105 Canterbury Drive. Registration closes on Wednesday, April 9.Gail Wickham, youth and senior program director, said the annual event has grown over 19 years and is on track for its largest turnout yet."This year, we are up to 82 couples. That's 150 dads and daughters who will be there that night," Wickham said.The evening will feature a taco bar, photo booth, DJ-led dance, themed games and crafts across the center's gyms. One activity will lead participants through a scavenger hunt using clues to win magical prizes.Registration is $20 per couple, with an additional $10 for each extra daughter. Wickham said they’ve already reached their initial capacity, but adjustments are being made to welcome more participants.You can register <a href="https://haysrecweb.org/wbwsc/webtrac.wsc/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&amp;FMID=19492208&amp;InterfaceParameter=WebTrac_1">online</a>&nbsp;and call Hays Recreation at 785-623-2650 for entry availability."It's a good event for dads, daughters, grandpas and uncles. I've even had a mom come with a daughter," Wickham said.The ages range from 2 to 13 years old."The kids love it. Dads are always twirling their girls around, and it ends with a dad and daughter dance," she said.You can follow the Hays Recreation Commission on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/haysrec/">Facebook</a>.