Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the recent Heartland Community Foundation Solutions Summit on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bc061cf6-69bd-4fe7-94f4-bf49403ecfea">SEE RELATED STORY: Solutions Summit: Ellis County needs to tell its story better</a>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays on Solutions Summit Meeting" 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=mkagb-17ece22-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></div>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the recent Heartland Community Foundation Solutions Summit on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bc061cf6-69bd-4fe7-94f4-bf49403ecfea">SEE RELATED STORY: Solutions Summit: Ellis County needs to tell its story better</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses Solutions Summit

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Local Republican legislators outlined significant cost-cutting measures and discussed water conservation, education, and gender policies at Saturday's legislative coffee in Hays.

Held at the Hays Public Library, Kansas Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, spoke to those in attendance.

Billinger discussed a potential $7.9 million savings on medical alert devices and said the state currently spends $8 million annually, but a review found the cost could be reduced to $55,000.

"If any of you have any idea on ways that we can save money and do our jobs better at the state level, feel free to share your ideas," Billinger said.

Billinger said Kansas overspent $916 million last year and needs to balance the budget to maintain financial stability.

"If we treat state money like it's our own money and that it doesn't grow on trees, I think we're better stewards," Rahjes added.

Billinger said a Senate effort to forgive compound interest on a bond recently saved the state $41 million.

Wasinger said the state plans to eliminate its 1.5-mill property tax but warned capping property values could prompt counties to raise levies, shifting rather than reducing the overall tax burden.

Wasinger continues prioritizing the R9 water project in Hays, advocating strongly for its progress.

Wasinger criticized state interference in the project, saying that Hays has led in water conservation and insisting it should proceed without delay.

"We have conserved our water in such a great example for the rest of the state... the city of Hays has spent a decade trying to fight for their water rights at the R9 Ranch," she said.

Gov. Laura Kelly proposed creating a Natural Resources Office to oversee water resource management across Kansas.

Billinger said control should remain with local water districts and management groups.

"I'm all for local control, and I think that's the key," he said.

Rahjes questioned the need for the U.S. Department of Education, advocating for greater control by local school boards.

"Wouldn't it be nice to have local school boards decide what's best for the local school children instead of having some edict from D.C. that says what works in Houston works in Ellis?" he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 489 school board member Ruth Ruder, who was present, said the state is not meeting its responsibilities for special education funding.

"My obligation as a school board member is to the kids, not to the taxpayer," she said. "I'm going to fight to get those funds."

Billinger said there is a lack of special education funding and attributes the shortfall to increased spending as more children enroll in the program.

"It doesn't take long to burn through our safety net, which is our rainy day fund," he said. "In special ed, I will push for as much as I can get."

The legislators discussed the Do No Harm Act, which limits state funding for gender transition procedures and bans health care providers from offering it to minors.

The bill has passed both the House and Senate and now awaits the governor’s signature. Rahjes said Kelly is expected to veto it, but lawmakers believe they have enough votes to override.

Audience members pushed back on the bill's premise and raised concerns about its impact.

Wasinger said the number of people with gender dysphoria has risen in recent years. She said everyone is either male or female.

Rahjes emphasized the bill applies only to minors to prevent premature decisions with long-term consequences.

Rahjes said an increasing shortage of attorneys in rural Kansas has led to legal service gaps in many small communities.

"Whoever would have thought we'd have a shortage of lawyers in rural Kansas? I never thought it would be in my lifetime," he said.

Legislative efforts are underway to address this, including a loan repayment program in collaboration with Washburn and the University of Kansas School of Law.

The Legislature is also considering a grant program to help gas stations offer high-ethanol blends to consumers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739032921782.jpeg" alt="Sarah Wasinger, Chamber in Hays CEO/President, Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland,&nbsp;Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Wasinger, Chamber in Hays CEO/President, Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland,&nbsp;Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostLocal Republican legislators outlined significant cost-cutting measures and discussed water conservation, education, and gender policies at Saturday's legislative coffee in Hays.Held at the Hays Public Library, Kansas Sen. Rick Billinger, R-Goodland, Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, and Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, spoke to those in attendance.<h2>Government spending</h2>Billinger discussed a potential $7.9 million savings on medical alert devices and said the state currently spends $8 million annually, but a review found the cost could be reduced to $55,000."If any of you have any idea on ways that we can save money and do our jobs better at the state level, feel free to share your ideas," Billinger said.Billinger said Kansas overspent $916 million last year and needs to balance the budget to maintain financial stability."If we treat state money like it's our own money and that it doesn't grow on trees, I think we're better stewards," Rahjes added.Billinger said a Senate effort to forgive compound interest on a bond recently saved the state $41 million.Wasinger said the state plans to eliminate its 1.5-mill property tax but warned capping property values could prompt counties to raise levies, shifting rather than reducing the overall tax burden.<h2>Water conservation</h2>Wasinger continues prioritizing the R9 water project in Hays, advocating strongly for its progress.Wasinger criticized state interference in the project, saying that Hays has led in water conservation and insisting it should proceed without delay."We have conserved our water in such a great example for the rest of the state... the city of Hays has spent a decade trying to fight for their water rights at the R9 Ranch," she said.Gov. Laura Kelly proposed creating a Natural Resources Office to oversee water resource management across Kansas.Billinger said control should remain with local water districts and management groups."I'm all for local control, and I think that's the key," he said.<h2>Education</h2>Rahjes questioned the need for the U.S. Department of Education, advocating for greater control by local school boards."Wouldn't it be nice to have local school boards decide what's best for the local school children instead of having some edict from D.C. that says what works in Houston works in Ellis?" he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;USD 489 school board member Ruth Ruder, who was present, said the state is not meeting its responsibilities for special education funding."My obligation as a school board member is to the kids, not to the taxpayer," she said. "I'm going to fight to get those funds."Billinger said there is a lack of special education funding and attributes the shortfall to increased spending as more children enroll in the program."It doesn't take long to burn through our safety net, which is our rainy day fund," he said. "In special ed, I will push for as much as I can get."<h2>Gender policies</h2>The legislators discussed the Do No Harm Act, which limits state funding for gender transition procedures and bans health care providers from offering it to minors.The bill has passed both the House and Senate and now awaits the governor’s signature. Rahjes said Kelly is expected to veto it, but lawmakers believe they have enough votes to override.Audience members pushed back on the bill's premise and raised concerns about its impact.Wasinger said the number of people with gender dysphoria has risen in recent years. She said everyone is either male or female.Rahjes emphasized the bill applies only to minors to prevent premature decisions with long-term consequences.<h2>Rural and agricultural issues&nbsp;</h2>Rahjes said an increasing shortage of attorneys in rural Kansas has led to legal service gaps in many small communities."Whoever would have thought we'd have a shortage of lawyers in rural Kansas? I never thought it would be in my lifetime," he said.Legislative efforts are underway to address this, including a loan repayment program in collaboration with Washburn and the University of Kansas School of Law.The Legislature is also considering a grant program to help gas stations offer high-ethanol blends to consumers.

Local legislators highlight cost saving measures, support Hays water conservations

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) —&nbsp;Former Iowa player and Nickerson High School standout Ava Jones announced on social media Saturday that she has cancer.

Jones said on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/avajones_35/p/DF0uLFnxNcZ/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;that she has Hodgkin lymphoma.

Just days after she committed to play for the Hawkeyes in 2022, Jones and her family were struck by a car in Kentucky. Her father, Trey Jones, died and she suffered a brain injury. Her mom was also injured.

“I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma after the results from the biopsy came back,” she wrote. “This is the news no one ever wants to get, but especially after spending the last 2 and a half years working my butt off and recovering from getting hit by a car. My body is very strong and I am confident in the doctors here at Iowa.”

Her former teammate Caitlin Clark commented on Jones’ post writing, “Praying for you kid."

Jones' scholarship was honored by Iowa and she was on the basketball team as a freshman before she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-ava-jones-retires-2b80c94b58f419264a4db5fb96a741a1" target="_blank">medically retired</a>&nbsp;eight months ago. She had several surgeries to address the brain injury as well as the multiple torn ligaments in her knees. She redshirted last season with hopes of playing at some point during her career at Iowa.

“It is with great sadness to announce that I am medically retiring from college basketball. My coaches, doctors, teammates and trainers have been amazing since the accident,” Jones said when she retired. “While I will no longer be a member of the women’s basketball program, I will still be on scholarship, receive a world-class education and forever be a Hawkeye. I’d like to thank my family for the never-ending support and I am excited for the next chapter of my life.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739063585196.jpeg" alt="FILE - Iowa Hawkeyes forward Ava Jones looks on during an exhibition game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Clarke Pride at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, Oct. 22, 2023. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - Iowa Hawkeyes forward Ava Jones looks on during an exhibition game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Clarke Pride at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa, Oct. 22, 2023. (Nick Rohlman/The Gazette via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) —&nbsp;Former Iowa player and Nickerson High School standout Ava Jones announced on social media Saturday that she has cancer.Jones said on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/avajones_35/p/DF0uLFnxNcZ/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;that she has Hodgkin lymphoma.Just days after she committed to play for the Hawkeyes in 2022, Jones and her family were struck by a car in Kentucky. Her father, Trey Jones, died and she suffered a brain injury. Her mom was also injured.“I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma after the results from the biopsy came back,” she wrote. “This is the news no one ever wants to get, but especially after spending the last 2 and a half years working my butt off and recovering from getting hit by a car. My body is very strong and I am confident in the doctors here at Iowa.”Her former teammate Caitlin Clark commented on Jones’ post writing, “Praying for you kid."Jones' scholarship was honored by Iowa and she was on the basketball team as a freshman before she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-ava-jones-retires-2b80c94b58f419264a4db5fb96a741a1" target="_blank">medically retired</a>&nbsp;eight months ago. She had several surgeries to address the brain injury as well as the multiple torn ligaments in her knees. She redshirted last season with hopes of playing at some point during her career at Iowa.“It is with great sadness to announce that I am medically retiring from college basketball. My coaches, doctors, teammates and trainers have been amazing since the accident,” Jones said when she retired. “While I will no longer be a member of the women’s basketball program, I will still be on scholarship, receive a world-class education and forever be a Hawkeye. I’d like to thank my family for the never-ending support and I am excited for the next chapter of my life.”

Former Nickerson player Ava Jones reveals cancer diagnosis

NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. winter virus season is in full force, and by one measure is the most intense in 15 years.

One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2025-week-05.html">data</a>&nbsp;posted Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Of course, other viral infections can be mistaken for flu. But COVID-19 appears to be on the decline, according to hospital data and to CDC modeling projections.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data/">Available data</a>&nbsp;also suggests another respiratory illness, RSV, has been fading nationally.

The flu has forced schools to shut down in some states. The Godley Independent School District, a 3,200-student system near Fort Worth, Texas, last week closed for three days after 650 students and 60 staff were out Tuesday.

Jeff Meador, a district spokesman, said the vast majority of illnesses there have been flu, plus some strep throat. He called it the worst flu season he could remember.

So far this season, the CDC estimates, there have been at least 24 million flu illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths — including at least 57 children. Traditionally, flu season peaks around February.

Overall, 43 states reported high or very high flu activity last week. Flu was most intense in the South, Southwest and western states.

In Rochester, New York, the flu season has been intense but not necessarily worse than at the peak of other years, said Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric emergency medicine doctor at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

She said there’s a lot of flu, but there’s also still a lot of RSV and a surprising number of babies with COVID-19.

“All of the respiratory illnesses are around, with a vengeance,” Murray added.

The CDC declined to let an Associated Press reporter speak to an agency flu expert about recent trends. The Trump administration ordered a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-health-communications-cdc-hhs-fda-1eeca64c1ccc324b31b779a86d3999a4">temporary “pause”</a>&nbsp;on health agency communications and has continued to refuse interview requests that were routinely granted in the past.

U.S. health officials recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-flu-rsv-vaccines-shots-ad33f4fe23f4c293ab87415b6449d9ad">annual flu vaccination</a>.

About 44% of adults got flu shots this winter, the same as last winter. But coverage of children is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluvaxview/dashboard/children-vaccination-coverage.html">way down</a>, at about 45% this winter. It’s usually around 50%, according to CDC data.

About 23% of U.S. adults were up to date in their COVID-19 vaccinations as of late January, up from about 20% at the same point in time the year before. COVID-19 vaccination rates for kids were about the same, at around 12%.

The government has not yet reported its estimates of how well this season's flu vaccine is working.

Testing results from patients indicate that two strains of seasonal flu that are causing most illnesses — a Type A H1N1 and a Type A H3N2. Health officials are closely watching a third strain — a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bird-flu">bird flu</a>&nbsp;known as Type A H5N1 — that has sickened tens of millions of animals, but is known to have infected only 67 people in the U.S.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norovirus-flu-symptoms-covid19-rsv-a673bf84d9503395783d849733e007eb">To avoid seasonal viruses</a>, doctors say you should avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth because germs can spread that way. You should also wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces and avoid close contact with people who are sick.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738961853692.png" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. winter virus season is in full force, and by one measure is the most intense in 15 years.One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2025-week-05.html">data</a>&nbsp;posted Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Of course, other viral infections can be mistaken for flu. But COVID-19 appears to be on the decline, according to hospital data and to CDC modeling projections.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data/">Available data</a>&nbsp;also suggests another respiratory illness, RSV, has been fading nationally.The flu has forced schools to shut down in some states. The Godley Independent School District, a 3,200-student system near Fort Worth, Texas, last week closed for three days after 650 students and 60 staff were out Tuesday.Jeff Meador, a district spokesman, said the vast majority of illnesses there have been flu, plus some strep throat. He called it the worst flu season he could remember.So far this season, the CDC estimates, there have been at least 24 million flu illnesses, 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths — including at least 57 children. Traditionally, flu season peaks around February.Overall, 43 states reported high or very high flu activity last week. Flu was most intense in the South, Southwest and western states.In Rochester, New York, the flu season has been intense but not necessarily worse than at the peak of other years, said Dr. Elizabeth Murray, a pediatric emergency medicine doctor at the University of Rochester Medical Center.She said there’s a lot of flu, but there’s also still a lot of RSV and a surprising number of babies with COVID-19.“All of the respiratory illnesses are around, with a vengeance,” Murray added.The CDC declined to let an Associated Press reporter speak to an agency flu expert about recent trends. The Trump administration ordered a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-health-communications-cdc-hhs-fda-1eeca64c1ccc324b31b779a86d3999a4">temporary “pause”</a>&nbsp;on health agency communications and has continued to refuse interview requests that were routinely granted in the past.U.S. health officials recommends that everyone 6 months and older get an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-flu-rsv-vaccines-shots-ad33f4fe23f4c293ab87415b6449d9ad">annual flu vaccination</a>.About 44% of adults got flu shots this winter, the same as last winter. But coverage of children is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/fluvaxview/dashboard/children-vaccination-coverage.html">way down</a>, at about 45% this winter. It’s usually around 50%, according to CDC data.About 23% of U.S. adults were up to date in their COVID-19 vaccinations as of late January, up from about 20% at the same point in time the year before. COVID-19 vaccination rates for kids were about the same, at around 12%.The government has not yet reported its estimates of how well this season's flu vaccine is working.Testing results from patients indicate that two strains of seasonal flu that are causing most illnesses — a Type A H1N1 and a Type A H3N2. Health officials are closely watching a third strain — a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bird-flu">bird flu</a>&nbsp;known as Type A H5N1 — that has sickened tens of millions of animals, but is known to have infected only 67 people in the U.S.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norovirus-flu-symptoms-covid19-rsv-a673bf84d9503395783d849733e007eb">To avoid seasonal viruses</a>, doctors say you should avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth because germs can spread that way. You should also wash your hands with soap and water, clean frequently touched surfaces and avoid close contact with people who are sick.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

Flu season in the US is the most intense it's been in at least 15 years

Celebration Community Church in Hays rolled out the red carpet Friday for a Night to Shine.

The 9th annual Night to Shine is a prom-night celebration that shares God’s love with individuals with special needs ages 14 and older, assisted by volunteers.

At Night to Shine, guests (individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities) are given a VIP treatment and introduction before they hit the dance floor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738989568109.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostCelebration Community Church in Hays rolled out the red carpet Friday for a Night to Shine.The 9th annual Night to Shine is a prom-night celebration that shares God’s love with individuals with special needs ages 14 and older, assisted by volunteers.At Night to Shine, guests (individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities) are given a VIP treatment and introduction before they hit the dance floor.<figure>
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Photo gallery: Night to Shine in Hays 2025

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Friday that he's revoking former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;access to government secrets and ending the daily intelligence briefings he's receiving in payback for Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/biden-says-erratic-trump-shouldnt-get-intel-briefings-44b9f2c7204e482b55a2d03077a4c5bf">doing the same</a>&nbsp;to him in 2021.

Trump announced his decision in a post on his social media platform shortly after he arrived at his Mar-a-Lago home and private club in Palm Beach for the weekend.

“There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information. Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden’s Security Clearances, and stopping his daily Intelligence Briefings,”&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113965169045323865">Trump wrote</a>. “He set this precedent in 2021, when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on National Security, a courtesy provided to former Presidents.”

The move is the latest in a vengeance tour of Washington that Trump promised during his campaign. He has previously revoked security clearances from more than four dozen former intelligence officials who signed a 2020 letter saying that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-steve-bannon-politics-united-states-government-robert-hunter-d20948db8967e21024059f38cde5e94c">Hunter Biden laptop saga</a>&nbsp;bore the hallmarks of a “Russian information operation.” He's also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pompeo-hook-iran-security-protections-987ca371756f48028ebd34ca7111f1c5">revoked security details</a>&nbsp;assigned to protect former government officials who have criticized him, including his own former secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-politics-government-iraq-qassim-soleimani-3353602bd30e683afec45d8c78196886">faces threats from Iran</a>, and former infectious disease expert&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fauci-trump-security-detail-4b2e317dc9e7768c0571df30750e863a">Dr. Anthony Fauci</a>.

Biden didn't immediately comment on the move.

Biden ended Trump's intelligence briefings after Trump helped spur efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and incited the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. At the time, Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/biden-says-erratic-trump-shouldnt-get-intel-briefings-44b9f2c7204e482b55a2d03077a4c5bf">said Trump's “erratic” behavior</a>&nbsp;should prevent him from getting the intel briefings.

Asked in an interview with CBS News what he feared if Trump continued to receive the briefings, Biden said he did not want to “speculate out loud” but made clear he did not want Trump to continue having access to such information.

“I just think that there is no need for him to have the intelligence briefings,” Biden said. “What value is giving him an intelligence briefing? What impact does he have at all, other than the fact he might slip and say something?”

in 2022, federal agents searched Trump's Florida home and seized boxes of classified records. He was indicted on dozens of felony counts accusing him of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-florida-indictment-highlights-857476c71e98e91521212a826efc8816">illegally hoarding classified records</a>&nbsp;and obstructing FBI efforts to get them back. He pleaded not guilty and denied wrongdoing. A judge dismissed the charges, ruling the special counsel who brought them was illegally appointed, and the Justice Department gave up appeals after Trump was elected in November.

In a related matter, Trump dismissed Colleen Shogan as the archivist of the United States, White House aide Sergio Gor posted on X Friday night.

Trump had said in early January that he would replace the head of the National Archives and Records Administration. The government agency drew his anger after it informed the Justice Department about issues with Trump’s handling of classified documents. Shogan, the first woman in the post, wasn’t the archivist of the United States at the time the issue emerged.

In his post on Biden, Trump cited the special counsel report last year into his handling of classified documents, saying, “The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from ‘poor memory’ and, even in his ‘prime,’ could not be trusted with sensitive information.”

He ended his post by saying, “I will always protect our National Security — JOE, YOU’RE FIRED. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

Special counsel Robert Hur investigated Biden’s handling of classified information and found that criminal charges were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-hur-garland-classified-documents-836b99fe9cbef9ba7d32602f4928efec">not warranted</a>&nbsp;but delivered a bitingly critical assessment of his handling of sensitive government records. The report&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-memory-age-special-counsel-report-doj-f4232bc8316e556ed467185b67c3e0a8">described</a>&nbsp;Biden’s memory as “hazy,” “fuzzy,” “faulty,” “poor” and having “significant limitations.” It said Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life such as when his son Beau died or when he served as vice president.

Trump has the right to end the briefings for Biden because it is a sitting president’s decision on whether a past president should continue to have access to classified information.

Steven Cheung, the president’s communications director, shared Trump’s post on the X social media platform and said, “Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731519489185.png" alt="File photo White House" />
 <figcaption>File photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Friday that he's revoking former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;access to government secrets and ending the daily intelligence briefings he's receiving in payback for Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/biden-says-erratic-trump-shouldnt-get-intel-briefings-44b9f2c7204e482b55a2d03077a4c5bf">doing the same</a>&nbsp;to him in 2021.Trump announced his decision in a post on his social media platform shortly after he arrived at his Mar-a-Lago home and private club in Palm Beach for the weekend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738983167971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information. Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden’s Security Clearances, and stopping his daily Intelligence Briefings,”&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113965169045323865">Trump wrote</a>. “He set this precedent in 2021, when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on National Security, a courtesy provided to former Presidents.”The move is the latest in a vengeance tour of Washington that Trump promised during his campaign. He has previously revoked security clearances from more than four dozen former intelligence officials who signed a 2020 letter saying that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-steve-bannon-politics-united-states-government-robert-hunter-d20948db8967e21024059f38cde5e94c">Hunter Biden laptop saga</a>&nbsp;bore the hallmarks of a “Russian information operation.” He's also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pompeo-hook-iran-security-protections-987ca371756f48028ebd34ca7111f1c5">revoked security details</a>&nbsp;assigned to protect former government officials who have criticized him, including his own former secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-politics-government-iraq-qassim-soleimani-3353602bd30e683afec45d8c78196886">faces threats from Iran</a>, and former infectious disease expert&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fauci-trump-security-detail-4b2e317dc9e7768c0571df30750e863a">Dr. Anthony Fauci</a>.Biden didn't immediately comment on the move.Biden ended Trump's intelligence briefings after Trump helped spur efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and incited the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. At the time, Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/biden-says-erratic-trump-shouldnt-get-intel-briefings-44b9f2c7204e482b55a2d03077a4c5bf">said Trump's “erratic” behavior</a>&nbsp;should prevent him from getting the intel briefings.Asked in an interview with CBS News what he feared if Trump continued to receive the briefings, Biden said he did not want to “speculate out loud” but made clear he did not want Trump to continue having access to such information.“I just think that there is no need for him to have the intelligence briefings,” Biden said. “What value is giving him an intelligence briefing? What impact does he have at all, other than the fact he might slip and say something?”in 2022, federal agents searched Trump's Florida home and seized boxes of classified records. He was indicted on dozens of felony counts accusing him of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-florida-indictment-highlights-857476c71e98e91521212a826efc8816">illegally hoarding classified records</a>&nbsp;and obstructing FBI efforts to get them back. He pleaded not guilty and denied wrongdoing. A judge dismissed the charges, ruling the special counsel who brought them was illegally appointed, and the Justice Department gave up appeals after Trump was elected in November.In a related matter, Trump dismissed Colleen Shogan as the archivist of the United States, White House aide Sergio Gor posted on X Friday night.Trump had said in early January that he would replace the head of the National Archives and Records Administration. The government agency drew his anger after it informed the Justice Department about issues with Trump’s handling of classified documents. Shogan, the first woman in the post, wasn’t the archivist of the United States at the time the issue emerged.In his post on Biden, Trump cited the special counsel report last year into his handling of classified documents, saying, “The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from ‘poor memory’ and, even in his ‘prime,’ could not be trusted with sensitive information.”He ended his post by saying, “I will always protect our National Security — JOE, YOU’RE FIRED. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”Special counsel Robert Hur investigated Biden’s handling of classified information and found that criminal charges were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-hur-garland-classified-documents-836b99fe9cbef9ba7d32602f4928efec">not warranted</a>&nbsp;but delivered a bitingly critical assessment of his handling of sensitive government records. The report&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-memory-age-special-counsel-report-doj-f4232bc8316e556ed467185b67c3e0a8">described</a>&nbsp;Biden’s memory as “hazy,” “fuzzy,” “faulty,” “poor” and having “significant limitations.” It said Biden could not recall defining milestones in his own life such as when his son Beau died or when he served as vice president.Trump has the right to end the briefings for Biden because it is a sitting president’s decision on whether a past president should continue to have access to classified information.Steven Cheung, the president’s communications director, shared Trump’s post on the X social media platform and said, “Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more!”

Trump says he’s revoking Biden’s access to classified information

PLAINVILLE -&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs basketball teams earned a doubleheader sweep as they returned to Mid-Continent League play Friday night in Smith Center.

The Monarch girls claimed a 47-46 victory while the boys earned a 57-46 win.

Gracyn Schippers scored with just over five seconds left to play lifting the TMP Lady Monarchs to a 47-46 win over the Smith Center Lady Red in the first game of the day.

TMP opened the game on an 11-2 run that covered the first quarter.

The lead was short-lived though, as Smith Center outscored TMP 17-7 in the second quarter as they rallied for a one point lead at halftime, 19-18.

The opening minutes of the third quarter belonged to TMP as they started the second half on a 13-3 run and 31-21 midway through the third period.

After TMP led by six at the end of the third quarter, Smith Center came all the way back to take the lead at 46-45 with just 15 second left in the game.

But after a TMP coach John Linn called a timeout the Monarchs got the ball in the post and scored &nbsp;with just five and a half seconds lefts putting TMP &nbsp;up 48-47.

Brooke Koenigsman for TMP led the way &nbsp;14 points. Claire Schippers add 14 points.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The TMP boys outscored Smith Center 26-5 to close out the game as they go on to win it, 57-46.

The first quarter featured seven lead changes and the Monarchs and Redmen were tied at 17 through the first quarter.

In the second neither team was able to build a substantial lead but a Ty Schmeidler three-pointer late in the first half gave TMP a 26-23 led.

TMP took a 28-25 lead into the second half.

In the third period Smith Center erased a four-point deficit with a 12-5 run giving the Redmen a four-point lead at 41-37 lead.

Trailing by four Schmeidler connected on a three-pointer to close the third quarter with TMP down just one at 41-40.

The Monarchs used that three pointer to close out the Redmen.

They outscored Smith Center 20-5 over the final eight-plus minuets as TMP clinched the 57-46 &nbsp;victory

Schmeidler scored a team-high 15 points and Carson Lyes 11 points and eight rebounds for TMP.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

PLAINVILLE -&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs basketball teams earned a doubleheader sweep as they returned to Mid-Continent League play Friday night in Smith Center.The Monarch girls claimed a 47-46 victory while the boys earned a 57-46 win.GIRLS: TMP 47, Smith Center 46Gracyn Schippers scored with just over five seconds left to play lifting the TMP Lady Monarchs to a 47-46 win over the Smith Center Lady Red in the first game of the day.<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/2029164076&color=%23ff5500&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/john-linn-postgame-interview-vs-smith-center-feb-7th-25" title="John Linn Postgame Interview Vs Smith Center (Feb 7th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">John Linn Postgame Interview Vs Smith Center (Feb 7th 25)</a></div> </div>TMP opened the game on an 11-2 run that covered the first quarter.The lead was short-lived though, as Smith Center outscored TMP 17-7 in the second quarter as they rallied for a one point lead at halftime, 19-18.The opening minutes of the third quarter belonged to TMP as they started the second half on a 13-3 run and 31-21 midway through the third period.After TMP led by six at the end of the third quarter, Smith Center came all the way back to take the lead at 46-45 with just 15 second left in the game.But after a TMP coach John Linn called a timeout the Monarchs got the ball in the post and scored &nbsp;with just five and a half seconds lefts putting TMP &nbsp;up 48-47.<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/2029164592&color=%23ff5500&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/tmp-wbkb-highlights-vs-smith-center-feb-7th-25-mixdown" title="TMP WBKB Highlights Vs Smith Center (Feb 7th 25) Mixdown" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights Vs Smith Center (Feb 7th 25) Mixdown</a></div></div>Brooke Koenigsman for TMP led the way &nbsp;14 points. Claire Schippers add 14 points.Boys: TMP 57, Smith Center 46&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The TMP boys outscored Smith Center 26-5 to close out the game as they go on to win it, 57-46.<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/2029163208&color=%23ff5500&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/bill-meagher-postgame-3" title="Bill Meagher Postgame Interview vs Smiith Center (Feb 7th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Bill Meagher Postgame Interview vs Smiith Center (Feb 7th 25)</a></div></div>The first quarter featured seven lead changes and the Monarchs and Redmen were tied at 17 through the first quarter.In the second neither team was able to build a substantial lead but a Ty Schmeidler three-pointer late in the first half gave TMP a 26-23 led.TMP took a 28-25 lead into the second half.In the third period Smith Center erased a four-point deficit with a 12-5 run giving the Redmen a four-point lead at 41-37 lead.Trailing by four Schmeidler connected on a three-pointer to close the third quarter with TMP down just one at 41-40.The Monarchs used that three pointer to close out the Redmen.They outscored Smith Center 20-5 over the final eight-plus minuets as TMP clinched the 57-46 &nbsp;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/2029164508&color=%23ff5500&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/tmp-mbkb-highlights-vs-smith-center-feb-7th-25" title="TMP MBKB Highlights Vs Smith Center (Feb 7th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB Highlights Vs Smith Center (Feb 7th 25)</a></div></div>Schmeidler scored a team-high 15 points and Carson Lyes 11 points and eight rebounds for TMP.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

🏀Monarchs sweep Smith Center in return to MCL play

Hays High returned to Western Athletic Conference play by hosting Dodge City on Friday.

Girls #4 Hays High 63, Dodge City 19

Hays scored the first thirty points of the game on their way to a 63-19 over Dodge City.

The Indians held Dodge City without a point through the first quarter. Hays took advantage making ten of fifteen field goal attempts through the first eight minutes. They also threw a free throw in for a 28-0 lead after the first eight minutes.

Hays led 30-0 before Dodge City scored their first points with 6:50 remaining in the second quarter. After the 30-0 score the rest of the quarter was a 10-8 ball game with the Indians holding the advantage during that time to lead 40-8 at halftime.

The Indians scored the first eleven points of the third quarter which increased their lead to 51-8. Hays outscored the Red Demons 17-4 in the third for a 57-12 lead heading to the fourth.

That large of a margin kicked in a continuous clock fourth quarter with Hays winning 63-19.

Hays(15-0, 4-0) has won fifteen consecutive WAC games. Molly Martin passed Brenda Bruggeman for fourth in career points and now has 949. She is one points behind Melissa Beyer in third. Dodge City(1-14, 0-3) has lost twelve games in a row. The two will rematch in Dodge City on February 25th for the Indians last road game of the regular season.

Jenna Schmeidler 14; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 0; Molly Martin 12; Kenlee Winter 8; Morgan Armbruster 0; Jays Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 2; Riley Dreher 4; Molly Buckles 14 (career high); Zoe Winter 9; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0; Haley LaBarge 0; Brenna Fletcher 0.

Hays High used a 16-2 third quarter run to blow open a tight game on their way to a win over Dodge City 61-44.

Hays did not trail in the first half scoring the first five points. The Indians went on a 8-0 run after the Red Demons scored their first three points. Hays led 13-3 with 2:17 left in the first quarter but did not score again. Back-to-back three pointers by Dodge City brought the game back to a four point different heading to the second quarter 13-9

Dodge City outscored Hays 9-5 to start the second quarter to tie the game at 18. The Indians answered right back with a three pointer only to have Dodge City score shortly after to make it a 21-20 game. The Red Demons had the ball and got a shot off around the rim but didn't connect to take the lead.

Hays led 25-21 at halftime and started the second half on a game decisive run. Dodge City scored the first point of the third quarter to close the gap to a single possession at 25-22. The Indians then erupted on a 16-2 run in which five different players scored. When the dust settled on that stretch Hays owned a 41-24 lead.&nbsp;

Hays scored 24 points in the third after knocking in 25 points in the entire first half.

The Indians grew their lead to 22 in the fourth quarter and Dodge City could no closer than 15 rest of the way resulting in the 61-44 victory for Hays.

Hays(8-7, 3-1) snaps a three game skid and stays within a game of Great Bend in the WAC race. Dodge City(5-10, 2-1) will host Hays on February 25th. The Indians outrebounded Dodge City 41-19. Izaac Fox had a career high 12 boards.

Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 15; Trace Jacobs 3; Cooper Lindenmeyer 6; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 10; Tiger Johnson 17; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 8; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Alex Loving 0.

Hays High returned to Western Athletic Conference play by hosting Dodge City on Friday.Girls #4 Hays High 63, Dodge City 19Hays scored the first thirty points of the game on their way to a 63-19 over Dodge City.The Indians held Dodge City without a point through the first quarter. Hays took advantage making ten of fifteen field goal attempts through the first eight minutes. They also threw a free throw in for a 28-0 lead after the first eight minutes.Hays led 30-0 before Dodge City scored their first points with 6:50 remaining in the second quarter. After the 30-0 score the rest of the quarter was a 10-8 ball game with the Indians holding the advantage during that time to lead 40-8 at halftime.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/2029145576&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/hays-high-wbkb-highlights-v-5" title="Hays High WBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>The Indians scored the first eleven points of the third quarter which increased their lead to 51-8. Hays outscored the Red Demons 17-4 in the third for a 57-12 lead heading to the fourth.That large of a margin kicked in a continuous clock fourth quarter with Hays winning 63-19.Coach Len Melvin<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/2029146076&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/hays-high-wbkb-coach-post-v-2" title="Hays High WBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>Hays(15-0, 4-0) has won fifteen consecutive WAC games. Molly Martin passed Brenda Bruggeman for fourth in career points and now has 949. She is one points behind Melissa Beyer in third. Dodge City(1-14, 0-3) has lost twelve games in a row. The two will rematch in Dodge City on February 25th for the Indians last road game of the regular season.Jenna Schmeidler 14; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 0; Molly Martin 12; Kenlee Winter 8; Morgan Armbruster 0; Jays Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 2; Riley Dreher 4; Molly Buckles 14 (career high); Zoe Winter 9; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0; Haley LaBarge 0; Brenna Fletcher 0.Boys Hays 61, Dodge City 44Hays High used a 16-2 third quarter run to blow open a tight game on their way to a win over Dodge City 61-44.Hays did not trail in the first half scoring the first five points. The Indians went on a 8-0 run after the Red Demons scored their first three points. Hays led 13-3 with 2:17 left in the first quarter but did not score again. Back-to-back three pointers by Dodge City brought the game back to a four point different heading to the second quarter 13-9Dodge City outscored Hays 9-5 to start the second quarter to tie the game at 18. The Indians answered right back with a three pointer only to have Dodge City score shortly after to make it a 21-20 game. The Red Demons had the ball and got a shot off around the rim but didn't connect to take the lead.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/2029146200&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/hays-high-mbkb-highlights-v-6" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>Hays led 25-21 at halftime and started the second half on a game decisive run. Dodge City scored the first point of the third quarter to close the gap to a single possession at 25-22. The Indians then erupted on a 16-2 run in which five different players scored. When the dust settled on that stretch Hays owned a 41-24 lead.&nbsp;Hays scored 24 points in the third after knocking in 25 points in the entire first half.The Indians grew their lead to 22 in the fourth quarter and Dodge City could no closer than 15 rest of the way resulting in the 61-44 victory for Hays.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/2029146532&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/hays-high-mbkb-coach-post-v-2" title="Hays High MBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Coach Post v Dodge City Feb 7, 2025</a></div></div>Hays(8-7, 3-1) snaps a three game skid and stays within a game of Great Bend in the WAC race. Dodge City(5-10, 2-1) will host Hays on February 25th. The Indians outrebounded Dodge City 41-19. Izaac Fox had a career high 12 boards.Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 15; Trace Jacobs 3; Cooper Lindenmeyer 6; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 10; Tiger Johnson 17; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 8; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Alex Loving 0.

🏀 Hays girls and boys pick up WAC wins over Dodge City

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Friday dealt President Donald Trump and billionaire ally Elon Musk their first big setback in their dismantling of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-usaid-musk-doge-7ec0a2b4032d4782d41c00164003b5de">U.S. Agency for International Development,</a>&nbsp;ordering a temporary halt to plans to pull thousands of agency staffers off the job.

U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, a Trump appointee, also agreed to block an order that would have given the thousands of overseas USAID workers the administration wanted to place on abrupt administrative leave just 30 days to move families and households back to the U.S. on government expense.

Both moves would have exposed the U.S. workers and their spouses and children to unwarranted risk and expense, the judge said.

Nichols pointed to accounts from workers abroad that the Trump administration, in its rush to shut down the agency and its programs abroad, had cut some workers off from government emails and other communication systems they needed to reach the U.S. government in case of a health or safety emergency.

The Associated Press reported earlier that USAID contractors in the Middle East and elsewhere had found even “panic button” apps&nbsp;<a href="https://that%20both%20orders%20exposed%20u.s.%20aid%20and%20development%20workers%20abroad%20to%20unwarranted%20risk%20and%20hardship./">wiped off their mobile phones</a>&nbsp;or disabled when the administration abruptly furloughed them.

“Administrative leave in Syria is not the same as administrative leave in Bethesda,” the judge said in his order Friday night.

In agreeing to stop the 30-day deadline given USAID staffers to return home at government expense, Nichols cited statements from agency employees who had no home to go to in the U.S. after decades abroad, who faced pulling children with special needs out of school midyear, and had other difficulties.

The judge also ordered USAID staffers already placed on leave by the Trump administration reinstated. But he declined a request from two federal employee associations to grant a temporary block on a Trump administration funding freeze that has shut down the six-decade-old agency and its work, pending more hearings on the workers' lawsuit.

Nichols stressed in the hearing earlier Friday on the request to pause the Trump administration's actions that his order was not a decision on the employees' request to roll back the administration's swiftly moving destruction of the agency.

“CLOSE IT DOWN,” Trump said on social media of USAID before the judge’s ruling.

The American Foreign Service Association and the American Federation of Government Employees argue that Trump lacks the authority to shut down the agency without approval from Congress. Democratic lawmakers have made the same argument.

Trump's administration moved quickly Friday to literally erase the agency's name. Workers on a crane scrubbed the name from the stone front of its Washington headquarters. They used duct tape to block it out on a sign and took down USAID flags. Someone placed a bouquet of flowers outside the door.

The Trump administration and&nbsp;<a href="https://elon%20musk/">Musk</a>, who is running a budget-cutting Department of Government Efficiency, have made USAID their biggest target so far in an unprecedented challenge of the federal government and many of its programs.

Administration appointees and Musk's teams have shut down almost all funding for the agency, stopping aid and development programs worldwide. They have placed staffers and contractors on leave and furlough and locked them out of the agency's email and other systems. According to Democratic lawmakers, they also carted away USAID's computer servers.

“This is a full-scale gutting of virtually all the personnel of an entire agency,” Karla Gilbride, the attorney for the employee associations, told the judge.

Justice Department attorney Brett Shumate argued that the administration has all the legal authority it needs to place agency staffers on leave. “The government does this across the board every day,” Shumate said. “That’s what’s happening here. It’s just a large number.”

Friday’s ruling is the latest setback in the courts for the Trump administration, whose policies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buyout-offer-deadline-trump-federal-workers-ce854b19c41b90cd657f75cf09511e96">offer financial incentives for federal workers</a>&nbsp;to resign and end&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-birthright-citizenship-executive-order-3ac5d6dc51ee95dcccc647a8c080c3e3">birthright citizenship</a>&nbsp;for anyone born in the U.S. to someone in the country illegally have been temporarily paused by judges.

Earlier Friday, a group of a half-dozen USAID officials speaking to reporters strongly disputed assertions from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the most essential life-saving programs abroad were getting waivers to continue funding. None were, the officials said.

Among the programs they said had not received waivers: $450 million in food grown by U.S. farmers sufficient to feed 36 million people, which was not being paid for or delivered; and water supplies for 1.6 million people displaced by war in Sudan’s Darfur region, which were being cut off without money for fuel to run water pumps in the desert.

The judge’s order involved the Trump administration’s decision earlier this week to pull almost all USAID workers off the job and out of the field worldwide.

Trump and congressional Republicans have spoken of moving a much-reduced number of aid and development programs under the State Department.

Within the State Department itself, employees fear substantial staff reductions following the deadline for the Trump administration's offer of financial incentives for federal workers to resign, according to officials who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal. A judge temporarily blocked that offer and set a hearing Monday.

The administration earlier this week gave almost all USAID staffers posted overseas 30 days, starting Friday, to return to the U.S., with the government paying for their travel and moving costs. Diplomats at embassies asked for waivers allowing more time for some, including families forced to pull their children out of schools midyear.

In a notice posted on the USAID website late Thursday, the agency clarified that none of the overseas personnel put on leave would be forced to leave the country where they work. But it said that workers who chose to stay longer than 30 days might have to cover their own expenses unless they received a specific hardship waiver.

Rubio said Thursday during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rubio-panama-canal-gaza-migration-usaid-b148af6bb15da37a8b6e4edf5a873829">a trip to the Dominican Republic</a>&nbsp;that the government would help staffers get home within 30 days “if they so desired" and would listen to those with special conditions.

He insisted the moves were the only way to get cooperation because staffers were working “to sneak through payments and push through payments despite the stop order” on foreign assistance. Agency staffers deny his claims of obstruction.

Rubio said the U.S. government will continue providing foreign aid, “but it is going to be foreign aid that makes sense and is aligned with our national interest."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738896794184.jpeg" alt="Democrat members of Congress protest USAID cuts Wednesday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Democrat members of Congress protest USAID cuts Wednesday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Friday dealt President Donald Trump and billionaire ally Elon Musk their first big setback in their dismantling of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-usaid-musk-doge-7ec0a2b4032d4782d41c00164003b5de">U.S. Agency for International Development,</a>&nbsp;ordering a temporary halt to plans to pull thousands of agency staffers off the job.U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, a Trump appointee, also agreed to block an order that would have given the thousands of overseas USAID workers the administration wanted to place on abrupt administrative leave just 30 days to move families and households back to the U.S. on government expense.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738968148672.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Both moves would have exposed the U.S. workers and their spouses and children to unwarranted risk and expense, the judge said.Nichols pointed to accounts from workers abroad that the Trump administration, in its rush to shut down the agency and its programs abroad, had cut some workers off from government emails and other communication systems they needed to reach the U.S. government in case of a health or safety emergency.The Associated Press reported earlier that USAID contractors in the Middle East and elsewhere had found even “panic button” apps&nbsp;<a href="https://that%20both%20orders%20exposed%20u.s.%20aid%20and%20development%20workers%20abroad%20to%20unwarranted%20risk%20and%20hardship./">wiped off their mobile phones</a>&nbsp;or disabled when the administration abruptly furloughed them.“Administrative leave in Syria is not the same as administrative leave in Bethesda,” the judge said in his order Friday night.In agreeing to stop the 30-day deadline given USAID staffers to return home at government expense, Nichols cited statements from agency employees who had no home to go to in the U.S. after decades abroad, who faced pulling children with special needs out of school midyear, and had other difficulties.The judge also ordered USAID staffers already placed on leave by the Trump administration reinstated. But he declined a request from two federal employee associations to grant a temporary block on a Trump administration funding freeze that has shut down the six-decade-old agency and its work, pending more hearings on the workers' lawsuit.Nichols stressed in the hearing earlier Friday on the request to pause the Trump administration's actions that his order was not a decision on the employees' request to roll back the administration's swiftly moving destruction of the agency.“CLOSE IT DOWN,” Trump said on social media of USAID before the judge’s ruling.The American Foreign Service Association and the American Federation of Government Employees argue that Trump lacks the authority to shut down the agency without approval from Congress. Democratic lawmakers have made the same argument.Trump's administration moved quickly Friday to literally erase the agency's name. Workers on a crane scrubbed the name from the stone front of its Washington headquarters. They used duct tape to block it out on a sign and took down USAID flags. Someone placed a bouquet of flowers outside the door.The Trump administration and&nbsp;<a href="https://elon%20musk/">Musk</a>, who is running a budget-cutting Department of Government Efficiency, have made USAID their biggest target so far in an unprecedented challenge of the federal government and many of its programs.Administration appointees and Musk's teams have shut down almost all funding for the agency, stopping aid and development programs worldwide. They have placed staffers and contractors on leave and furlough and locked them out of the agency's email and other systems. According to Democratic lawmakers, they also carted away USAID's computer servers.“This is a full-scale gutting of virtually all the personnel of an entire agency,” Karla Gilbride, the attorney for the employee associations, told the judge.Justice Department attorney Brett Shumate argued that the administration has all the legal authority it needs to place agency staffers on leave. “The government does this across the board every day,” Shumate said. “That’s what’s happening here. It’s just a large number.”Friday’s ruling is the latest setback in the courts for the Trump administration, whose policies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/buyout-offer-deadline-trump-federal-workers-ce854b19c41b90cd657f75cf09511e96">offer financial incentives for federal workers</a>&nbsp;to resign and end&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-birthright-citizenship-executive-order-3ac5d6dc51ee95dcccc647a8c080c3e3">birthright citizenship</a>&nbsp;for anyone born in the U.S. to someone in the country illegally have been temporarily paused by judges.Earlier Friday, a group of a half-dozen USAID officials speaking to reporters strongly disputed assertions from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the most essential life-saving programs abroad were getting waivers to continue funding. None were, the officials said.Among the programs they said had not received waivers: $450 million in food grown by U.S. farmers sufficient to feed 36 million people, which was not being paid for or delivered; and water supplies for 1.6 million people displaced by war in Sudan’s Darfur region, which were being cut off without money for fuel to run water pumps in the desert.The judge’s order involved the Trump administration’s decision earlier this week to pull almost all USAID workers off the job and out of the field worldwide.Trump and congressional Republicans have spoken of moving a much-reduced number of aid and development programs under the State Department.Within the State Department itself, employees fear substantial staff reductions following the deadline for the Trump administration's offer of financial incentives for federal workers to resign, according to officials who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal. A judge temporarily blocked that offer and set a hearing Monday.The administration earlier this week gave almost all USAID staffers posted overseas 30 days, starting Friday, to return to the U.S., with the government paying for their travel and moving costs. Diplomats at embassies asked for waivers allowing more time for some, including families forced to pull their children out of schools midyear.In a notice posted on the USAID website late Thursday, the agency clarified that none of the overseas personnel put on leave would be forced to leave the country where they work. But it said that workers who chose to stay longer than 30 days might have to cover their own expenses unless they received a specific hardship waiver.Rubio said Thursday during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rubio-panama-canal-gaza-migration-usaid-b148af6bb15da37a8b6e4edf5a873829">a trip to the Dominican Republic</a>&nbsp;that the government would help staffers get home within 30 days “if they so desired" and would listen to those with special conditions.He insisted the moves were the only way to get cooperation because staffers were working “to sneak through payments and push through payments despite the stop order” on foreign assistance. Agency staffers deny his claims of obstruction.Rubio said the U.S. government will continue providing foreign aid, “but it is going to be foreign aid that makes sense and is aligned with our national interest."

30-day deadline: Judge blocks Trump from placing USAID workers on leave

Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.

For 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.

• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.

• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity

• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.

• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.

o Face painting o Tiger tattoos o Make a birthday hat o Photos with Victor E. Tiger o Special treats o Games, crafts, and more

• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation

• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)

• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State

• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. 

FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. 

Monday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. 

Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride.

More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday" 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=q592s-17eb14a-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></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738175139663.png" alt="FHSU" />
 <figcaption>FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.FHSU University CommunicationsFor 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.• 1-2 p.m. free birthday activitieso Face painting o Tiger tattoos o Make a birthday hat o Photos with Victor E. Tiger o Special treats o Games, crafts, and more• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. ONLINE EVENTSBirthday Card Contest FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. Mascot Trivia GameMonday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. Tiger Tales Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride. More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

🎙 Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday 

NEW YORK (AP) — A federal scientific publication on Thursday returned from a forced two-week hiatus with two papers examining the health effects of wildfires in Hawaii and California.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention resumed the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, which the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-health-communications-cdc-hhs-fda-1eeca64c1ccc324b31b779a86d3999a4">suspended</a>&nbsp;as part of a “pause” on regulations, guidance, announcements, press releases, social media posts and website posts.

The CDC has gradually restarted some communications and reports, but the silencing of MMWR, as it it known, prompted a chorus of concern from public health leaders and some legislators.

“Outbreaks are not contained because scientists are ordered to stop talking about them,” Sen. Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois, said in a Wednesday night statement calling for the publication to be restarted.

MMWR issues typically run 20 to 25 pages and contain four or more reports about disease investigations, health trends or other public health developments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/pdfs/mm7403-H.pdf" target="_blank">Thursday’s publication</a>&nbsp;was slimmer than usual: just over eight pages, with two short reports.

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7403a1.htm?s_cid=mm7403a1_w" target="_blank">One of the reports</a>&nbsp;was about last year’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hawaii-maui-wildfire-settlement-supreme-court-insurance-c910d3f66cbe76555a872b1584d0e429">Maui wildfire</a>. Researchers measured the blood of responding firefighters, looking for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. The manmade chemicals have been linked to cancer and other health problems.

Previous studies have shown firefighters have higher concentrations of some PFAS in their blood. Thousands of firefighters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/firefighters-cancer-pfas-turnout-gear-chemicals-868e4eb6af158e7a34fb229c2dd79ebf">have sued</a>&nbsp;manufacturers and companies that make firefighting gear and foam, seeking damages for their exposure.

The new study looked at about 180 firefighters and 80 other county employees. It found the firefighters’ blood had higher concentrations of some PFAS, but most were still at levels below a medical threshold that triggers the need for further testing. The researchers had no baseline measurements of the people in the study from before the 2023 fire, so it’s hard to know if blaze contributed, the authors acknowledged.

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7403a2.htm?s_cid=mm7403a2_w" target="_blank">The second article</a>&nbsp;looked at hospital emergency department visits during last month’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-wildfires-emergency-alerts-los-angeles-d78c30c9f73570c31aae9c9154c685ae">Los Angeles wildfires</a>. It found visits decreased 9% over the first six days of the wildfires.

That’s consistent with other research that has shown declines in ER visits immediately after natural disasters. The drop may be due to evacuations that caused people to leave Los Angeles or to get medical care from places other than hospitals. Information from hospitals in surrounding counties was not included in the new report.

Before the journal went on hiatus, the CDC was expected to soon publish articles about the bird flu outbreak. A CDC spokesperson didn’t say why the articles weren’t published this week but said they “are still in the pipeline.”

Dr. Tom Frieden, the CDC director during the Obama administration, said he was pleased to see the journal return but also concerned that it “doesn’t contain any reports on bird flu spreading in animals and people, the new strain of mpox spreading or other emerging health threats.”

Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said he wants to see meatier issues that have the information that researchers, local health officials and others need “to make data-driven decisions.”

The MMWR has been called “the voice of the CDC.” Published weekly since 1961, it has for generations been the main way the agency recounted disease investigations, shared public health recommendations and conveyed other health information.

Typically released every Thursday, the journal has more than 147,000 electronic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/about.html" target="_blank">subscribers</a>&nbsp;— a readership that’s mainly doctors, nurses, educators, researchers and public health scientists.

Articles often turn into news for the general public

A paper published in June 1981, about previously healthy gay Los Angeles men who came down with lung infections, turned out to be the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/june_5.htm" target="_blank">first published report</a>&nbsp;documenting the disease that came to be known as AIDS. In April 2009, the journal reported&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5816a7.htm" target="_blank">the first two cases</a>&nbsp;of what became known as the H1N1 “swine flu” pandemic.

In 2020, during the first Trump administration, the MMWR became the focus of concerns about political interference with CDC’s scientific work. White House officials believed CDC scientists were undermining Trump by trying to make the COVID-19 pandemic appear worse than it was.

The journal’s editor at the time, Dr. Charlotte Kent,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/james-clyburn-alex-azar-coronavirus-pandemic-d582aeb73e53f242fa1d33f099e14cd3">later told Congress</a>&nbsp;that administration officials pressed her to delay publication of at least one article and told her to delete an email that showed political meddling.

“If political decisions determine which health threats to highlight, we’ll all be less safe,” said Frieden, president of Resolve to Save Lives, a not-for-profit organization that works on international public health issues. “I hope the new administration will see the value in CDC publishing information on health threats every week, without political interference.”

BY&nbsp;MIKE STOBBENEW YORK (AP) — A federal scientific publication on Thursday returned from a forced two-week hiatus with two papers examining the health effects of wildfires in Hawaii and California.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention resumed the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, which the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-health-communications-cdc-hhs-fda-1eeca64c1ccc324b31b779a86d3999a4">suspended</a>&nbsp;as part of a “pause” on regulations, guidance, announcements, press releases, social media posts and website posts.The CDC has gradually restarted some communications and reports, but the silencing of MMWR, as it it known, prompted a chorus of concern from public health leaders and some legislators.“Outbreaks are not contained because scientists are ordered to stop talking about them,” Sen. Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Illinois, said in a Wednesday night statement calling for the publication to be restarted.MMWR issues typically run 20 to 25 pages and contain four or more reports about disease investigations, health trends or other public health developments.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/pdfs/mm7403-H.pdf" target="_blank">Thursday’s publication</a>&nbsp;was slimmer than usual: just over eight pages, with two short reports.<h2>Research on health effects of wildfires</h2><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7403a1.htm?s_cid=mm7403a1_w" target="_blank">One of the reports</a>&nbsp;was about last year’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hawaii-maui-wildfire-settlement-supreme-court-insurance-c910d3f66cbe76555a872b1584d0e429">Maui wildfire</a>. Researchers measured the blood of responding firefighters, looking for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. The manmade chemicals have been linked to cancer and other health problems.Previous studies have shown firefighters have higher concentrations of some PFAS in their blood. Thousands of firefighters&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/firefighters-cancer-pfas-turnout-gear-chemicals-868e4eb6af158e7a34fb229c2dd79ebf">have sued</a>&nbsp;manufacturers and companies that make firefighting gear and foam, seeking damages for their exposure.The new study looked at about 180 firefighters and 80 other county employees. It found the firefighters’ blood had higher concentrations of some PFAS, but most were still at levels below a medical threshold that triggers the need for further testing. The researchers had no baseline measurements of the people in the study from before the 2023 fire, so it’s hard to know if blaze contributed, the authors acknowledged.<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7403a2.htm?s_cid=mm7403a2_w" target="_blank">The second article</a>&nbsp;looked at hospital emergency department visits during last month’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-wildfires-emergency-alerts-los-angeles-d78c30c9f73570c31aae9c9154c685ae">Los Angeles wildfires</a>. It found visits decreased 9% over the first six days of the wildfires.That’s consistent with other research that has shown declines in ER visits immediately after natural disasters. The drop may be due to evacuations that caused people to leave Los Angeles or to get medical care from places other than hospitals. Information from hospitals in surrounding counties was not included in the new report.<h2>Journal has never taken two weeks off</h2>Before the journal went on hiatus, the CDC was expected to soon publish articles about the bird flu outbreak. A CDC spokesperson didn’t say why the articles weren’t published this week but said they “are still in the pipeline.”Dr. Tom Frieden, the CDC director during the Obama administration, said he was pleased to see the journal return but also concerned that it “doesn’t contain any reports on bird flu spreading in animals and people, the new strain of mpox spreading or other emerging health threats.”Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association, said he wants to see meatier issues that have the information that researchers, local health officials and others need “to make data-driven decisions.”The MMWR has been called “the voice of the CDC.” Published weekly since 1961, it has for generations been the main way the agency recounted disease investigations, shared public health recommendations and conveyed other health information.It had never taken a two-week break.Typically released every Thursday, the journal has more than 147,000 electronic&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/about.html" target="_blank">subscribers</a>&nbsp;— a readership that’s mainly doctors, nurses, educators, researchers and public health scientists.<h2>Articles often turn into news for the general public</h2>A paper published in June 1981, about previously healthy gay Los Angeles men who came down with lung infections, turned out to be the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/june_5.htm" target="_blank">first published report</a>&nbsp;documenting the disease that came to be known as AIDS. In April 2009, the journal reported&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5816a7.htm" target="_blank">the first two cases</a>&nbsp;of what became known as the H1N1 “swine flu” pandemic.In 2020, during the first Trump administration, the MMWR became the focus of concerns about political interference with CDC’s scientific work. White House officials believed CDC scientists were undermining Trump by trying to make the COVID-19 pandemic appear worse than it was.The journal’s editor at the time, Dr. Charlotte Kent,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/james-clyburn-alex-azar-coronavirus-pandemic-d582aeb73e53f242fa1d33f099e14cd3">later told Congress</a>&nbsp;that administration officials pressed her to delay publication of at least one article and told her to delete an email that showed political meddling.“If political decisions determine which health threats to highlight, we’ll all be less safe,” said Frieden, president of Resolve to Save Lives, a not-for-profit organization that works on international public health issues. “I hope the new administration will see the value in CDC publishing information on health threats every week, without political interference.”<h2>___</h2>The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

‘Voice of the CDC’ resumes publication after Trump executive order

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

Democratic attorneys general in several states vowed Thursday to file a lawsuit to stop Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing federal payment systems&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-trump-doge-intelligence-cia-4a4e99c7925b02e014e6e65d2ef9a055">containing Americans' sensitive personal information.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738777949415.png" alt="Elon Musk-file photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Elon Musk-file photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DAVE%20COLLINS%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DAVE COLLINS &nbsp;Associated Press</a>Democratic attorneys general in several states vowed Thursday to file a lawsuit to stop Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency from accessing federal payment systems&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-trump-doge-intelligence-cia-4a4e99c7925b02e014e6e65d2ef9a055">containing Americans' sensitive personal information.</a>A dozen attorneys general, including New York's Letitia James, said in a statement that they were taking action “in defense of our Constitution, our right to privacy, and the essential funding that individuals and communities nationwide are counting on."“As the richest man in the world, Elon Musk is not used to being told ‘no,’ but in our country, no one is above the law," the statement said. “The President does not have the power to give away our private information to anyone he chooses, and he cannot cut federal payments approved by Congress.”The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday afternoon.Government officials and labor unions have been among those raising concerns about DOGE's involvement with the payment system for the federal government, saying it could lead to security risks or missed payments for programs such as Social Security and Medicare.Also Thursday, a federal judge ordered that two Musk allies have “read only” access to Treasury Department payment systems, but no one else will get access for now, including Musk himself. The ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by federal workers unions trying to stop the billionaire’s DOGE from following through on what they call a massive privacy invasion.It was not immediate clear when the Democratic attorneys general will file their lawsuit.Joining James in the statement were the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Rhode Island and Vermont.President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;tapped Musk, the world’s richest man, to shrink the size of the U.S. government.Democrats have criticized the tech billionaire’s maneuvers, which include the hostile seizure of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-elon-musk-doge-treasury-5e26cc80fcb766981cea56afd57ae759">taxpayer data</a>&nbsp;and the apparent closure of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usaid-foreign-aid-freeze-trump-peter-marocco-8253d7dda766df89e10390c1645e78aa">government’s leading international humanitarian aid agency</a>.DOGE recently has gained access to sensitive payment data within the Treasury Department. It came after Treasury’s acting Deputy Secretary David Lebryk resigned under pressure after more than 30 years of service. The Washington Post reported that Lebryk resigned after Musk and DOGE requested access to sensitive Treasury data.