<b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

After more than four decades of service, Lawrence "Jug" Younger's legacy endures in the Hays Police Department he helped build and the officers he shaped.

Younger passed away peacefully on Tuesday at Hays Medical Center, surrounded by family and friends.

Younger was born July 17, 1938, in Hays to Lawrence Sr. and Anna Younger. Growing up with four sisters, Younger loved fishing at Big Creek and shooting his BB gun.

Younger was essentially born into the Hays Police Department, as his father served as chief of police from 1950 to 1955, according to current Chief Don Scheibler.

As a high school freshman at age 14, Younger met his future wife, Louise Walburn. The couple married on May 19, 1957, in Great Bend, and later raised five children and served as surrogate parents to many others over the years.

Younger began his career with the Hays Police Department on Feb. 3, 1958, rising through the ranks before being named chief of police in 1982 after 24 years of service. He led the department from 1982 to 2002, making him the longest-serving chief in its history.

Scheibler was hired by Younger in 1993 and served under him for the remainder of Younger’s law enforcement career.

"His life was dedicated to protecting this community," Scheibler said.

Younger’s leadership led to the creation of several specialized units that remain active today, such as the Hays Police Special Situation Response Team, the Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit and the bike patrol.

"His fingerprint is all over the Hays Police Department. For 20 years, he was chief. He was leading, guiding and directing us," Scheibler said.

Scheibler said many officers hired under Younger later advanced into leadership positions across Kansas law enforcement, including serving as lieutenants and captains with the Kansas Highway Patrol.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5abb4af0-7321-4b8c-b418-d359a0a15076">One example is retired KHP Captain and WaKeeney Police Chief Travis Phillips</a>, who began his law enforcement career with the Hays Police Department on Sept. 3, 1991. He joined the KHP in 1994 and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4e1d5776-6025-414c-a751-577ec164a0bc">became WaKeeney chief in 2025</a>.

"He gave me my first chance to make a difference. ... I was always really impressed with his presence," Phillips said.

Phillips described Younger as a hands-on leader who led by example. He recalls times when Younger showed up during large parties near the Fort Hays State University campus to help disperse crowds before anyone was hurt.

"It was neat that the chief of police actually came down to help because you wouldn't expect that out of somebody in his position," Phillips said.

Phillips said Younger was consistently supportive and taught him lessons that he still carries with him today in his role as chief.

Scheibler said, "Time and time again, people that he hired went on to be very successful. The foundation he set with everyone about having a strong work ethic and putting in the time and effort was instrumental in our success."

Former Hays police officer and KHP Lt. Dennis Dinkel said Younger set high standards and was a strong supporter of the officers who served under him.

"Chief Younger had your back. If somebody said something that wasn't true, he was the first one to stand there and back you up," Dinkel said.

Younger hired Dinkel in 1992, and he served under Younger until joining the KHP in 2001.

"That department laid a great foundation for anybody who started their law enforcement career there. Younger taught you to do it the right way," Dinkel said.

Scheibler said Younger was straightforward and tough but deeply cared for his officers and the community. After Younger retired, Jim Brown succeeded him as chief, followed later by Scheibler.

"Once I became chief, he and I began to have conversations as a friend and a mentor," Scheibler said. "He listened to me and gave me ideas... more often than not, he'd tell me to suck it up because that's what you signed up for."

"He was a shining example of how to be a chief of police, but also how to be a husband."

Hays Police Lt. Brandon Wright said he was the last officer&nbsp;Younger hired in September 2001. Wright worked with him for only about a month. Wright said their connection later centered on a shared interest in police pistol competitions, which Younger was passionate about.

"He knows I'm a shooter. Every time we crossed paths, we'd always talk about whether I'm still shooting, if I've gone to any competitions lately, and about the department's team," Wright said.

Former Ellis County Sheriff Ed Harbin worked alongside Younger from about 1980 until his retirement, spanning more than two decades.

"We worked together when we needed to. Neither one of us would turn each other down if we needed help or assistance," Harbin said.

Harbin said they didn’t always agree, but he still regarded Younger as a great asset to law enforcement and someone you could have a cup of coffee with. He remembers his grin and sense of humor the most.

"He was kind of like a fishing buddy at times," Harbin said.

Phillips, Dinkel, Harbin and Wright said one of the last times they saw Younger was when they gathered to honor <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/828772e4-ab2d-416f-a5cb-bd6631c6d836">the passing of Scott Heimann in the fall 2025</a>.

During his retirement, Younger spent much of his time working on projects in and around the home and enjoying time with his children, their spouses, and his 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Younger was also a member of the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police and the Kansas Peace Officers Association.

"I will always be grateful for his passion for law enforcement, commitment to protecting his community, and the sacrifice that not only he made, but his family has made as well—a lifetime of sacrifice in serving the community. We should recognize that and we should be grateful for that," Scheibler said.

Younger's funeral service will be at 11 a.m. today at the First United Methodist Church in Hays. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cde5b3d-e39a-4c05-a12f-e87186648f58">You can read the full obituary here.</a>

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770296687515.jpeg" alt="Lawrence 'Jug' Younger Jr" />
                        <figcaption>Lawrence 'Jug' Younger Jr</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By TONY GUERRERO</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>After more than four decades of service, Lawrence "Jug" Younger's legacy endures in the Hays Police Department he helped build and the officers he shaped.</p><p>Younger passed away peacefully on Tuesday at Hays Medical Center, surrounded by family and friends.</p><p>Younger was born July 17, 1938, in Hays to Lawrence Sr. and Anna Younger. Growing up with four sisters, Younger loved fishing at Big Creek and shooting his BB gun.</p><p>Younger was essentially born into the Hays Police Department, as his father served as chief of police from 1950 to 1955, according to current Chief Don Scheibler.</p><p>As a high school freshman at age 14, Younger met his future wife, Louise Walburn. The couple married on May 19, 1957, in Great Bend, and later raised five children and served as surrogate parents to many others over the years.</p><p>Younger began his career with the Hays Police Department on Feb. 3, 1958, rising through the ranks before being named chief of police in 1982 after 24 years of service. He led the department from 1982 to 2002, making him the longest-serving chief in its history.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770390796067.jpeg" alt="Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger (right) with a K9. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger (right) with a K9. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Scheibler was hired by Younger in 1993 and served under him for the remainder of Younger’s law enforcement career.</p><p>"His life was dedicated to protecting this community," Scheibler said.</p><p>Younger’s leadership led to the creation of several specialized units that remain active today, such as the Hays Police Special Situation Response Team, the Ellis County Drug Enforcement Unit and the bike patrol.</p><p>"His fingerprint is all over the Hays Police Department. For 20 years, he was chief. He was leading, guiding and directing us," Scheibler said.</p><p>Scheibler said many officers hired under Younger later advanced into leadership positions across Kansas law enforcement, including serving as lieutenants and captains with the Kansas Highway Patrol.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5abb4af0-7321-4b8c-b418-d359a0a15076">One example is retired KHP Captain and WaKeeney Police Chief Travis Phillips</a>, who began his law enforcement career with the Hays Police Department on Sept. 3, 1991. He joined the KHP in 1994 and <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4e1d5776-6025-414c-a751-577ec164a0bc">became WaKeeney chief in 2025</a>.</p><p>"He gave me my first chance to make a difference. ... I was always really impressed with his presence," Phillips said.</p><p>Phillips described Younger as a hands-on leader who led by example. He recalls times when Younger showed up during large parties near the Fort Hays State University campus to help disperse crowds before anyone was hurt.</p><p>"It was neat that the chief of police actually came down to help because you wouldn't expect that out of somebody in his position," Phillips said.</p><p>Phillips said Younger was consistently supportive and taught him lessons that he still carries with him today in his role as chief.</p><p>Scheibler said, "Time and time again, people that he hired went on to be very successful. The foundation he set with everyone about having a strong work ethic and putting in the time and effort was instrumental in our success."</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770390864179.jpeg" alt="Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger with a motorcycle. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger with a motorcycle. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Former Hays police officer and KHP Lt. Dennis Dinkel said Younger set high standards and was a strong supporter of the officers who served under him.</p><p>"Chief Younger had your back. If somebody said something that wasn't true, he was the first one to stand there and back you up," Dinkel said.</p><p>Younger hired Dinkel in 1992, and he served under Younger until joining the KHP in 2001.</p><p>"That department laid a great foundation for anybody who started their law enforcement career there. Younger taught you to do it the right way," Dinkel said.</p><p>Scheibler said Younger was straightforward and tough but deeply cared for his officers and the community. After Younger retired, Jim Brown succeeded him as chief, followed later by Scheibler.</p><p>"Once I became chief, he and I began to have conversations as a friend and a mentor," Scheibler said. "He listened to me and gave me ideas... more often than not, he'd tell me to suck it up because that's what you signed up for."</p><p>"He was a shining example of how to be a chief of police, but also how to be a husband."</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770390918831.jpeg" alt="Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger making an arrest. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger making an arrest. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Hays Police Lt. Brandon Wright said he was the last officer&nbsp;Younger hired in September 2001. Wright worked with him for only about a month. Wright said their connection later centered on a shared interest in police pistol competitions, which Younger was passionate about.</p><p>"He knows I'm a shooter. Every time we crossed paths, we'd always talk about whether I'm still shooting, if I've gone to any competitions lately, and about the department's team," Wright said.</p><p>Former Ellis County Sheriff Ed Harbin worked alongside Younger from about 1980 until his retirement, spanning more than two decades.</p><p>"We worked together when we needed to. Neither one of us would turn each other down if we needed help or assistance," Harbin said.</p><p>Harbin said they didn’t always agree, but he still regarded Younger as a great asset to law enforcement and someone you could have a cup of coffee with. He remembers his grin and sense of humor the most.</p><p>"He was kind of like a fishing buddy at times," Harbin said.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770390982421.jpeg" alt="Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger (front row, center right) surrounded by other officers. Courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Former Hays Police Chief Lawrence "Jug" Younger (front row, center right) surrounded by other officers. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Phillips, Dinkel, Harbin and Wright said one of the last times they saw Younger was when they gathered to honor <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/828772e4-ab2d-416f-a5cb-bd6631c6d836">the passing of Scott Heimann in the fall 2025</a>.</p><p>During his retirement, Younger spent much of his time working on projects in and around the home and enjoying time with his children, their spouses, and his 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.</p><p>Younger was also a member of the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police and the Kansas Peace Officers Association.</p><p>"I will always be grateful for his passion for law enforcement, commitment to protecting his community, and the sacrifice that not only he made, but his family has made as well—a lifetime of sacrifice in serving the community. We should recognize that and we should be grateful for that," Scheibler said.</p><p>Younger's funeral service will be at 11 a.m. today at the First United Methodist Church in Hays. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1cde5b3d-e39a-4c05-a12f-e87186648f58">You can read the full obituary here.</a></p>

Local law enforcement reflect on former Hays Police Chief's legacy

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs basketball teams were back at home for the first time in approximately three weeks on Friday night as they swept the Smith Center basketball teams at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.

The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs finished the game on a 21-3 run, holding Smith Center to a single point in the fourth quarter on their way to a 45-29 victory.

The opening quarter and a half finished with six lead changes and three ties before the Monarchs (10-6 &amp; 5-1 MCL) built a two-point halftime lead.

Smith Center (8-8 &amp; 5-3 MCL) held a one-point lead, 12-11, after the first quarter. 

In the second frame, the Monarchs outscored the Lady Red by three for a 19-17 halftime lead.

The Monarchs led by as many as five to open the second half at 24-19 before Smith Center answered with a 7-0 run to lead 26-24 with just over three and a half minutes to play.

But on the next possession, Hannah Rose knocked down a transition three-pointer, putting TMP up 27-26. She added a jumper on the following possession as well, sparking a 21-3 run as the Monarchs went on to the 45-29 victory.

The Monarchs held Smith Center scoreless for just less than nine minutes in the second half.

TMP’s Hannah Rose and Claire Schippers each finished with 12 points.

<b>BOYS: TMP 51, Smith Center 34<br></b>The TMP boys held Smith Center to one fourth-quarter field goal and closed the game on a 19-2 run, holding off Smith Center 51-34 Friday.

The first two quarters saw eight lead changes and two ties before TMP closed the first half with five straight by Will Eck, pulling TMP within one, and then Ty Schmeidler’s three-pointer late in the second quarter put TMP up 24-22.

The two teams traded the lead again midway through the third quarter before Schmeidler put the Monarchs on top, 32-30, with a three-pointer with just over three minutes left in the quarter.

The three-pointer jump started a 19-2 run to close out the game and TMP’s 51-34 victory.

Smith Center scored just two points over the final 10 minutes and 50 seconds of the game. 

Ty Schmeidler led the Monarchs with 16 points. Will Eck finished with 12 points, and Ian and Grant Nehls each collected 10 rebounds.

<p>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT<br>Hays Post</p><p>HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs basketball teams were back at home for the first time in approximately three weeks on Friday night as they swept the Smith Center basketball teams at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.</p><p><b>GIRLS: TMP 45, Smith Center 29</b></p><p>The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs finished the game on a 21-3 run, holding Smith Center to a single point in the fourth quarter on their way to a 45-29 victory.</p><p><b>John Linn</b></p><div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261751461&color=%2337669a&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-814667509/2-6-26-tmp-mariam-girls-coach" title="2-6-26 TMP Mariam Girls Coach Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">2-6-26 TMP Mariam Girls Coach Interview</a></div></div><p>The opening quarter and a half finished with six lead changes and three ties before the Monarchs (10-6 &amp; 5-1 MCL) built a two-point halftime lead.</p><p>Smith Center (8-8 &amp; 5-3 MCL) held a one-point lead, 12-11, after the first quarter. </p><p>In the second frame, the Monarchs outscored the Lady Red by three for a 19-17 halftime lead.</p><p>The Monarchs led by as many as five to open the second half at 24-19 before Smith Center answered with a 7-0 run to lead 26-24 with just over three and a half minutes to play.</p><p>But on the next possession, Hannah Rose knocked down a transition three-pointer, putting TMP up 27-26. She added a jumper on the following possession as well, sparking a 21-3 run as the Monarchs went on to the 45-29 victory.</p><div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261751713&color=%2337669a&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-814667509/2-6-26-tmp-mariam-wbkb" title="2-6-26 TMP Mariam WBKB Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">2-6-26 TMP Mariam WBKB Highlights</a></div></div><p>The Monarchs held Smith Center scoreless for just less than nine minutes in the second half.</p><p>TMP’s Hannah Rose and Claire Schippers each finished with 12 points.</p><p><b>BOYS: TMP 51, Smith Center 34<br></b>The TMP boys held Smith Center to one fourth-quarter field goal and closed the game on a 19-2 run, holding off Smith Center 51-34 Friday.</p><p><b>Bil Meagher</b></p><div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261751545&color=%2337669a&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-814667509/2-6-26-tmp-mariam-boys-coach" title="2-6-26 TMP Mariam Boys Coach Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">2-6-26 TMP Mariam Boys Coach Interview</a></div></div><p>The first two quarters saw eight lead changes and two ties before TMP closed the first half with five straight by Will Eck, pulling TMP within one, and then Ty Schmeidler’s three-pointer late in the second quarter put TMP up 24-22.</p><p>The two teams traded the lead again midway through the third quarter before Schmeidler put the Monarchs on top, 32-30, with a three-pointer with just over three minutes left in the quarter.</p><p>The three-pointer jump started a 19-2 run to close out the game and TMP’s 51-34 victory.</p><div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261751713&color=%2337669a&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-814667509/2-6-26-tmp-mariam-wbkb" title="2-6-26 TMP Mariam WBKB Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">2-6-26 TMP Mariam WBKB Highlights</a></div></div><p>Smith Center scored just two points over the final 10 minutes and 50 seconds of the game. </p><p>Ty Schmeidler led the Monarchs with 16 points. Will Eck finished with 12 points, and Ian and Grant Nehls each collected 10 rebounds.</p><p>The Monarchs will host Colby on Monday.</p>

🏀 Monarchs shake off slow starts on the way to a pair of wins over Smith Center

<b>By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER</b><br><i>Hays Post Sports</i>

DODGE CITY - Hays High resumed Western Athletic Conference play with a road trip to Dodge City on Friday evening.

<b>Girls:&nbsp;#4 Hays 64, Dodge City 48<br></b>The final score of 64-48 in favor of Hays was by no means an indication of how the game went.

Hays never led in the first half. Dodge City banked in a three pointer to start the scoring and break open the bank in the first half. The Red Demons shot 74% in the first half, making 14 of 19 field goal attempts. They also made six of nine three point attempts.

The Indians trailed by as many as 19 in the second quarter at 30-11 before going on a 12-2 run to get back within nine points. Dodge City scored the final four points of the half for a 36-23 lead.

The second half belonged to the road team. Hays allowed just 12 total points on 4 of 12 shooting and forced 11 turnovers.

Molly Buckles scored six straight points to five Hays their first lead at 40-39 during a 19-3 Indian run. Hays' defense never relented allowing four third quarter points and eight in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;

The Indians entered the fourth quarter with a two point lead and quickly pushed it forward to a double digit lead at 50-40 three minutes in.&nbsp;

The Red Demons got within eight points in the fourth quarter but never closer as Hays left the gym with a 64-48 victory.

After shooting 26% (7-27) in the first half the Indians made 45% (14 of 26) attempts in the second half. The Indians also made 16 of 17 free throw attempts.

Schmeidler 22, Humphrey 2, LaBarge 0, Cunningham 0, Armbruster 0, Newell 6, Harrington 0, Buckles 14, Winter 20.

<b>Boys:&nbsp;#6 Hays 73, Dodge City 34<br></b>Dodge City scored the first three points of the game. Hays responded with the next 19 in a 73-34 victory over the Red Demons.

Hays matched their season high in points despite the entire fourth quarter being a running clock. The Indians were never threatened rest of the way. The closest Dodge City got rest of the night was a 13 point difference at the end of the first quarter 21-8.

The Indians continued to pour on the offense in the first half. Leading 26-10, Hays went on a 14-6 run to close out the first half leading 40-16.

The Indians overcame the potential of letting of the gas right away in the third quarter. The two teams traded baskets before Hays went on a 14-3 run for a 56-23 lead with less than three minutes to go in the quarter. The Indians scored the final nine points of the third quarter to go up 65-26 and enact a continuous clock fourth quarter.

Each team scored eight points in the fourth quarter for the final of 73-34.

Senior Dawson Ruder surpassed 1,000 career points in the game. He is now third all-time in scoring behind Brady Werth and Matt Stramel.

Pfeifer 4, Burkholder 3, Homeier 5, Oakley 4, Hardman 0, Harmoney 6, Schmidtberger 3, Fox 20, Smalley 0, Day 2, Prediger 2, Ruder 19, Loving 2 Reid 3.

<p><b>By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER</b><br><i>Hays Post Sports</i></p><p>DODGE CITY - Hays High resumed Western Athletic Conference play with a road trip to Dodge City on Friday evening.</p><p><b>Girls:&nbsp;#4 Hays 64, Dodge City 48<br></b>The final score of 64-48 in favor of Hays was by no means an indication of how the game went.</p><p>Hays never led in the first half. Dodge City banked in a three pointer to start the scoring and break open the bank in the first half. The Red Demons shot 74% in the first half, making 14 of 19 field goal attempts. They also made six of nine three point attempts.</p><p>The Indians trailed by as many as 19 in the second quarter at 30-11 before going on a 12-2 run to get back within nine points. Dodge City scored the final four points of the half for a 36-23 lead.</p><p><b>Highlights</b></p><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261753228&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-wbkb-highlights-v-dodge" title="HHS WBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS WBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026</a></div></div><p>The second half belonged to the road team. Hays allowed just 12 total points on 4 of 12 shooting and forced 11 turnovers.</p><p>Molly Buckles scored six straight points to five Hays their first lead at 40-39 during a 19-3 Indian run. Hays' defense never relented allowing four third quarter points and eight in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;</p><p>The Indians entered the fourth quarter with a two point lead and quickly pushed it forward to a double digit lead at 50-40 three minutes in.&nbsp;</p><p>The Red Demons got within eight points in the fourth quarter but never closer as Hays left the gym with a 64-48 victory.</p><p><b>Coach Len Melvin</b></p><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261753099&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/melvin-post-int-v-dodge-city" title="Melvin Post Int v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Melvin Post Int v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026</a></div></div><p>After shooting 26% (7-27) in the first half the Indians made 45% (14 of 26) attempts in the second half. The Indians also made 16 of 17 free throw attempts.</p><p>Schmeidler 22, Humphrey 2, LaBarge 0, Cunningham 0, Armbruster 0, Newell 6, Harrington 0, Buckles 14, Winter 20.</p><p><b>Boys:&nbsp;#6 Hays 73, Dodge City 34<br></b>Dodge City scored the first three points of the game. Hays responded with the next 19 in a 73-34 victory over the Red Demons.</p><p>Hays matched their season high in points despite the entire fourth quarter being a running clock. The Indians were never threatened rest of the way. The closest Dodge City got rest of the night was a 13 point difference at the end of the first quarter 21-8.</p><p>The Indians continued to pour on the offense in the first half. Leading 26-10, Hays went on a 14-6 run to close out the first half leading 40-16.</p><p><b>Highlights</b></p><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261754899&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hhs-mbkb-highlights-v-dodge" title="HHS MBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB Highlights v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026</a></div></div><p>The Indians overcame the potential of letting of the gas right away in the third quarter. The two teams traded baskets before Hays went on a 14-3 run for a 56-23 lead with less than three minutes to go in the quarter. The Indians scored the final nine points of the third quarter to go up 65-26 and enact a continuous clock fourth quarter.</p><p>Each team scored eight points in the fourth quarter for the final of 73-34.</p><p><b>Coach Sean Dreiling</b></p><div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2261753342&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/dreiling-post-int-v-dodge-city" title="Dreiling Post Int v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Dreiling Post Int v Dodge City Feb 6, 2026</a></div></div><p>Senior Dawson Ruder surpassed 1,000 career points in the game. He is now third all-time in scoring behind Brady Werth and Matt Stramel.</p><p>Pfeifer 4, Burkholder 3, Homeier 5, Oakley 4, Hardman 0, Harmoney 6, Schmidtberger 3, Fox 20, Smalley 0, Day 2, Prediger 2, Ruder 19, Loving 2 Reid 3.</p>

🏀 Road sweep as Hays knocks off Dodge City

Hays High knocked off Dodge City on Friday evening in both the girls' and boys' games. Due to streaming restrictions, Hays Post could not bring you the games live. <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3483670">CLICK HERE</a> to watch the replay of the games.

<p>Hays High knocked off Dodge City on Friday evening in both the girls' and boys' games. Due to streaming restrictions, Hays Post could not bring you the games live. <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3483670">CLICK HERE</a> to watch the replay of the games.</p>

🏀📺 REPLAY: Hays High goes on the road to defeat Dodge City

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — “West Wing” and “Field of Dreams” actor Timothy Busfield has been indicted by a grand jury on four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child under age 13, a New Mexico prosecutor announced Friday.

The allegations are tied to Busfield's work as a director on the set of the TV series “The Cleaning Lady” from 2022 to 2024.

Busfield has denied the allegations, initially filed in court by police, and a defense attorney on Friday said he would “fight these charges at every stage.”

Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman announced the indictment in a social media post.

Busfield had turned himself in to authorities in January on related charges by police and was released from jail by a judge who found no pattern of criminal conduct or similar allegations involving children in Busfield's past. The grand jury indictment allows the case against Busfield to proceed toward possible trial without a preliminary courtroom hearing on evidence.

Larry Stein, an attorney for Busfield, did not comment directly on the sexual contact charge in the indictment but said the grand jury declined to endorse grooming charges sought by prosecutors. Prosecutors declined to comment on what accusations it brought before the grand jury.

Stein said in a statement that a detention hearing already “exposed fatal weaknesses in the state’s evidence — gaps that no amount of charging decisions can cure.”

“Mr. Busfield will fight these charges at every stage and looks forward to testing the State’s case in open court,” the statement said.

An investigator with the Albuquerque Police Department said a boy reported that Busfield touched his private areas over his clothing when he was 7 years old and again when he was 8, according to the initial criminal complaint from police. The boy’s twin told authorities he was also touched by Busfield, but he didn’t say anything right away because he didn’t want to get in trouble, the complaint said.

The indictment — filed Friday in state District Court — reiterates allegations that Busfield “touched or applied force to the intimate parts” of one of the boys on several occasions.

At a detention hearing last month, Busfield’s attorneys pointed out that the children initially said during interviews with police that Busfield didn’t touch them inappropriately. Busfield’s attorneys then accused the boys’ parents of coaching their children toward incriminating statements after the boys lost lucrative roles on the show.

But Assistant District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch has called evidence of abuse against Busfield strong and specific, with support from medical findings and the boys' therapist. She also said witnesses expressed fear about potential retaliation and professional harm.

Prosecutors have outlined what they said was grooming behavior and abuse of power by Busfield over three decades.

Each count in the indictment against Busfied carries a possible penalty of six years in prison that can be enhanced if it involves a sexual offense, according to prosecutors.

In freeing Busfield on Jan. 20, state District Court Judge David Murphy said that while the crimes Busfield is accused of inherently are dangerous and involve children, prosecutors didn’t prove the public wouldn’t be safe if he’s released.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768347111074.png" alt="Busfield photo Albuquerque Metro Detention Facility" />
                        <figcaption>Busfield photo Albuquerque Metro Detention Facility</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — “West Wing” and “Field of Dreams” actor Timothy Busfield has been indicted by a grand jury on four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child under age 13, a New Mexico prosecutor announced Friday.</p><p>The allegations are tied to Busfield's work as a director on the set of the TV series “The Cleaning Lady” from 2022 to 2024.</p><p>Busfield has denied the allegations, initially filed in court by police, and a defense attorney on Friday said he would “fight these charges at every stage.”</p><p>Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman announced the indictment in a social media post.</p><p>Busfield had turned himself in to authorities in January on related charges by police and was released from jail by a judge who found no pattern of criminal conduct or similar allegations involving children in Busfield's past. The grand jury indictment allows the case against Busfield to proceed toward possible trial without a preliminary courtroom hearing on evidence.</p><p>Larry Stein, an attorney for Busfield, did not comment directly on the sexual contact charge in the indictment but said the grand jury declined to endorse grooming charges sought by prosecutors. Prosecutors declined to comment on what accusations it brought before the grand jury.</p><p>Stein said in a statement that a detention hearing already “exposed fatal weaknesses in the state’s evidence — gaps that no amount of charging decisions can cure.”</p><p>“Mr. Busfield will fight these charges at every stage and looks forward to testing the State’s case in open court,” the statement said.</p><p>An investigator with the Albuquerque Police Department said a boy reported that Busfield touched his private areas over his clothing when he was 7 years old and again when he was 8, according to the initial criminal complaint from police. The boy’s twin told authorities he was also touched by Busfield, but he didn’t say anything right away because he didn’t want to get in trouble, the complaint said.</p><p>The indictment — filed Friday in state District Court — reiterates allegations that Busfield “touched or applied force to the intimate parts” of one of the boys on several occasions.</p><p>At a detention hearing last month, Busfield’s attorneys pointed out that the children initially said during interviews with police that Busfield didn’t touch them inappropriately. Busfield’s attorneys then accused the boys’ parents of coaching their children toward incriminating statements after the boys lost lucrative roles on the show.</p><p>But Assistant District Attorney Savannah Brandenburg-Koch has called evidence of abuse against Busfield strong and specific, with support from medical findings and the boys' therapist. She also said witnesses expressed fear about potential retaliation and professional harm.</p><p>Prosecutors have outlined what they said was grooming behavior and abuse of power by Busfield over three decades.</p><p>Each count in the indictment against Busfied carries a possible penalty of six years in prison that can be enhanced if it involves a sexual offense, according to prosecutors.</p><p>In freeing Busfield on Jan. 20, state District Court Judge David Murphy said that while the crimes Busfield is accused of inherently are dangerous and involve children, prosecutors didn’t prove the public wouldn’t be safe if he’s released.</p>

West Wing actor  indicted on 4 counts of sexual contact with a child

ARLINGTON COUNTY, Virginia —On Thursday, the Arlington County, Virginia Police Department&nbsp; announced the arrest of a Maryland man following a month’s long criminal investigation, according to a media release from Arlington County police.

Colin Demarco, 26, of Rockville, Maryland is charged with Attempted Murder, Criminal Solicitation to Commit Murder, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Wearing a Mask in Public to Conceal Identity. He was taken into custody at his residence on January 16 and later extradited to the Commonwealth of Virginia. He is being held without bond in the Arlington County Detention Facility.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. on August 10, 2025, Arlington County Police were dispatched to the 3800 block of 7th Street S. for the report of a suspicious person. 

A witness reported observing a suspect, who was wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves, carrying a backpack and appeared to be concealing a firearm under his shirt, on the victim’s porch. 

The suspect subsequently approached the witness and inquired about the victim before leaving the scene. The witness then contacted police and responding officers established a perimeter and canvassed the area for the suspect with negative results. The incident was captured on home surveillance video and the suspect was subsequently identified.

During the course of the investigation, the Arlington County Police Department executed search warrants for digital records associated with the suspect. As a result of these search warrants, police recovered digital evidence that the suspect had obtained directions to the victim’s residence, confirmed in court records as the home of&nbsp;t  Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought. 

The suspect also had information detailing locations of firearms possessed by a relative and had a guide detailing tips to prevent criminal detection. 

Additionally, the suspect had posted online about the victim and had online discussions appearing to solicit others to murder the victim. Within days of these online solicitations, the August 10 incident occurred where the suspect arrived at the victim’s address wearing a mask and gloves, possibly concealing a firearm and inquired about the victim. As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained the criminal warrants for the suspect’s arrest.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770384166701.png" alt="Demarco photo Arlington County Police" />
                        <figcaption>Demarco photo Arlington County Police</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>ARLINGTON COUNTY, Virginia —On Thursday, the Arlington County, Virginia Police Department&nbsp; announced the arrest of a Maryland man following a month’s long criminal investigation, according to a media release from Arlington County police.</p><p>Colin Demarco, 26, of Rockville, Maryland is charged with Attempted Murder, Criminal Solicitation to Commit Murder, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Wearing a Mask in Public to Conceal Identity. He was taken into custody at his residence on January 16 and later extradited to the Commonwealth of Virginia. He is being held without bond in the Arlington County Detention Facility.</p><p>At approximately 3:15 p.m. on August 10, 2025, Arlington County Police were dispatched to the 3800 block of 7th Street S. for the report of a suspicious person. </p><p>A witness reported observing a suspect, who was wearing a surgical mask and rubber gloves, carrying a backpack and appeared to be concealing a firearm under his shirt, on the victim’s porch. </p><p>The suspect subsequently approached the witness and inquired about the victim before leaving the scene. The witness then contacted police and responding officers established a perimeter and canvassed the area for the suspect with negative results. The incident was captured on home surveillance video and the suspect was subsequently identified.</p><p>During the course of the investigation, the Arlington County Police Department executed search warrants for digital records associated with the suspect. As a result of these search warrants, police recovered digital evidence that the suspect had obtained directions to the victim’s residence, confirmed in court records as the home of&nbsp;t  Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought. </p><p>The suspect also had information detailing locations of firearms possessed by a relative and had a guide detailing tips to prevent criminal detection. </p><p>Additionally, the suspect had posted online about the victim and had online discussions appearing to solicit others to murder the victim. Within days of these online solicitations, the August 10 incident occurred where the suspect arrived at the victim’s address wearing a mask and gloves, possibly concealing a firearm and inquired about the victim. As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained the criminal warrants for the suspect’s arrest.</p>

Man accused of trying to kill member of President Trump's Cabinet

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s social media post featuring former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates in a jungle was deleted after a backlash from both Republicans and Democrats who criticized the video as racist.

The Republican president’s Thursday night post was deleted Friday and blamed on a staffer after widespread backlash, from civil rights leaders to veteran Republican senators, for its treatment of the nation’s first Black president and first lady. The deletion, a rare admission of a misstep by the White House, came hours after press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed “fake outrage” over the post. After calls for its removal for being racist -- including by Republicans -- the White House said a staffer had posted the video erroneously and it had been taken down.

The post was part of a flurry of social media activity on Trump's Truth Social account that amplified his false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him, despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-lies-debunked-4fc26546b07962fdbf9d66e739fbb50d">courts around the country</a>&nbsp;and a Trump attorney general from his first term finding no evidence of fraud that could have affected the outcome.

An Obama spokeswoman said the former president, a Democrat, had no response.

Nearly all of the 62-second clip, which was among dozens of Truth Social posts from Trump overnight, appears to be from a conservative video alleging deliberate tampering with voting machines in battleground states as the 2020 presidential votes were tallied. At the 60-second mark is a quick scene of two primates, with the Obamas' smiling faces imposed on them.

Those frames were taken from a separate video, previously circulated by an influential conservative meme maker. It shows Trump as “King of the Jungle” and depicts a range of Democratic leaders as animals, including Joe Biden, who is white, as a jungle primate eating a banana.

“This is from an internet meme video depicting President Trump as the King of the Jungle and Democrats as characters from the Lion King,” Leavitt said by text, referring to Disney's 1994 feature film, which does not feature the range of jungle primates featured in the original video. “Please stop the fake outrage and report on something today that actually matters to the American public.”

By noon, the post had been taken down with responsibility placed on a Trump subordinate.

Trump did not comment on the video in the post, which comes in the first week of Black History Month and days after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/02/national-black-history-month-2026/">a presidential proclamation</a>&nbsp;that cited “the contributions of black Americans to our national greatness and their enduring commitment to the American principles of liberty, justice, and equality.”

Condemnation across the political spectrum

While it was still up, Trump's post drew condemnation from across the political and ideological spectrum.

The Rev. Bernice King, daughter of the assassinated civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., resurfaced her father's words: “Yes. I'm Black. I'm proud of it. I'm Black and beautiful.” She praised Black Americans as “diverse, innovative, industrious, inventive” and added, “We are beloved of God as postal workers and professors, as a former first lady and president. We are not apes.”

The U.S. Senate's lone Black Republican, Tim Scott of South Carolina, called on Trump to take down the post. “Praying it was fake because it’s the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House,” Scott, who chairs Senate Republicans' midterm campaign arm, said on social media.

Another Republican, Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, is white but represents the state with the largest percentage of Black residents. Wicker called the post “totally unacceptable” and said the president should apologize.

NAACP President Derrick Johnson said in a statement, “Donald Trump’s video is blatantly racist, disgusting, and utterly despicable.”

Johnson asserted that Trump is trying anything to distract from economic conditions and attention on the Jeffrey Epstein case files.

“You know who isn’t in the Epstein files? Barack Obama,” Johnson said. "You know who actually improved the economy as president? Barack Obama.”

Trump and the official White House social media accounts frequently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ai-videos-trump-ice-artificial-intelligence-08d91fa44f3146ec1f8ee4d213cdad31">repost memes and artificial intelligence-generated videos</a>. As Leavitt did Friday, Trump aides typically dismiss critiques and cast the images as humorous.

There is a long history in the U.S. of powerful white figures associating Black people with animals, including apes, in demonstrably false and racist ways. The practice dates back to 18th century cultural racism and pseudo-scientific theories in which white people drew connections between Africans and monkeys to justify the enslavement of Black people in Europe and North America, and later to dehumanize freed Black people as an uncivilized threat to white people.

Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, wrote in his famous text “Notes on the State of Virginia” that Black women were the preferred sexual partners of orangutans. President Dwight Eisenhower, discussing the desegregation of public schools in the 1950s, once argued that white parents were concerned about their daughters being in classrooms with “big Black bucks.” Obama, as a candidate and president, was featured as a monkey or other primate on T-shirts and other merchandise.

Trump, for his part, has a record of intensely personal criticism of the Obamas and of using incendiary, sometimes racist, rhetoric.

In his 2024 campaign, Trump said immigrants were “poisoning the blood of our country,” language&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hitler-poison-blood-history-f8c3ff512edd120252596a4743324352">similar to what Adolf Hitler said</a>&nbsp;to dehumanize Jews in Nazi Germany.

During his first White House term, Trump referred to a swath of developing nations that are majority Black as “shithole countries.” He initially denied using the slur but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-slur-haiti-africa-immigration-28aa0785d6f3c68fd4d9e823b6397429">admitted in December 2025</a>&nbsp;that he did say it.

When Obama was in the White House, Trump advanced the false claims that the 44th president, who was born in Hawaii, was born in Kenya and was constitutionally ineligible to serve. Trump, in interviews that helped endear him to many conservative voters, repeatedly demanded that Obama produce birth records and prove he was a “natural-born citizen” as required to become president.

Obama eventually released his Hawaii records. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-presidential-election-general-news-events-61f7085d848248cd98410027d33f2101">finally acknowledged</a>&nbsp;during his 2016 campaign, after having won the Republican nomination, that Obama was born in Hawaii. But he immediately said, falsely, that his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton started those birtherism attacks on Obama.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736438157279.png" alt="Former President Obama and President Trump at the memorial service for former President Jimmy Carter- image image courtesy CSPAN video" />
                        <figcaption>Former President Obama and President Trump at the memorial service for former President Jimmy Carter- image image courtesy CSPAN video</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s social media post featuring former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates in a jungle was deleted after a backlash from both Republicans and Democrats who criticized the video as racist.</p><p>The Republican president’s Thursday night post was deleted Friday and blamed on a staffer after widespread backlash, from civil rights leaders to veteran Republican senators, for its treatment of the nation’s first Black president and first lady. The deletion, a rare admission of a misstep by the White House, came hours after press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed “fake outrage” over the post. After calls for its removal for being racist -- including by Republicans -- the White House said a staffer had posted the video erroneously and it had been taken down.</p><p>The post was part of a flurry of social media activity on Trump's Truth Social account that amplified his false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him, despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-lies-debunked-4fc26546b07962fdbf9d66e739fbb50d">courts around the country</a>&nbsp;and a Trump attorney general from his first term finding no evidence of fraud that could have affected the outcome.</p><p>An Obama spokeswoman said the former president, a Democrat, had no response.</p><p>Nearly all of the 62-second clip, which was among dozens of Truth Social posts from Trump overnight, appears to be from a conservative video alleging deliberate tampering with voting machines in battleground states as the 2020 presidential votes were tallied. At the 60-second mark is a quick scene of two primates, with the Obamas' smiling faces imposed on them.</p><h2>‘An internet meme’</h2><p>Those frames were taken from a separate video, previously circulated by an influential conservative meme maker. It shows Trump as “King of the Jungle” and depicts a range of Democratic leaders as animals, including Joe Biden, who is white, as a jungle primate eating a banana.</p><p>“This is from an internet meme video depicting President Trump as the King of the Jungle and Democrats as characters from the Lion King,” Leavitt said by text, referring to Disney's 1994 feature film, which does not feature the range of jungle primates featured in the original video. “Please stop the fake outrage and report on something today that actually matters to the American public.”</p><p>By noon, the post had been taken down with responsibility placed on a Trump subordinate.</p><p>Trump did not comment on the video in the post, which comes in the first week of Black History Month and days after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/02/national-black-history-month-2026/">a presidential proclamation</a>&nbsp;that cited “the contributions of black Americans to our national greatness and their enduring commitment to the American principles of liberty, justice, and equality.”</p><h2>Condemnation across the political spectrum</h2><p>While it was still up, Trump's post drew condemnation from across the political and ideological spectrum.</p><p>The Rev. Bernice King, daughter of the assassinated civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., resurfaced her father's words: “Yes. I'm Black. I'm proud of it. I'm Black and beautiful.” She praised Black Americans as “diverse, innovative, industrious, inventive” and added, “We are beloved of God as postal workers and professors, as a former first lady and president. We are not apes.”</p><p>The U.S. Senate's lone Black Republican, Tim Scott of South Carolina, called on Trump to take down the post. “Praying it was fake because it’s the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House,” Scott, who chairs Senate Republicans' midterm campaign arm, said on social media.</p><p>Another Republican, Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, is white but represents the state with the largest percentage of Black residents. Wicker called the post “totally unacceptable” and said the president should apologize.</p><p>NAACP President Derrick Johnson said in a statement, “Donald Trump’s video is blatantly racist, disgusting, and utterly despicable.”</p><p>Johnson asserted that Trump is trying anything to distract from economic conditions and attention on the Jeffrey Epstein case files.</p><p>“You know who isn’t in the Epstein files? Barack Obama,” Johnson said. "You know who actually improved the economy as president? Barack Obama.”</p><p>Trump and the official White House social media accounts frequently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ai-videos-trump-ice-artificial-intelligence-08d91fa44f3146ec1f8ee4d213cdad31">repost memes and artificial intelligence-generated videos</a>. As Leavitt did Friday, Trump aides typically dismiss critiques and cast the images as humorous.</p><h2>A long history of racism</h2><p>There is a long history in the U.S. of powerful white figures associating Black people with animals, including apes, in demonstrably false and racist ways. The practice dates back to 18th century cultural racism and pseudo-scientific theories in which white people drew connections between Africans and monkeys to justify the enslavement of Black people in Europe and North America, and later to dehumanize freed Black people as an uncivilized threat to white people.</p><p>Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, wrote in his famous text “Notes on the State of Virginia” that Black women were the preferred sexual partners of orangutans. President Dwight Eisenhower, discussing the desegregation of public schools in the 1950s, once argued that white parents were concerned about their daughters being in classrooms with “big Black bucks.” Obama, as a candidate and president, was featured as a monkey or other primate on T-shirts and other merchandise.</p><p>Trump, for his part, has a record of intensely personal criticism of the Obamas and of using incendiary, sometimes racist, rhetoric.</p><p>In his 2024 campaign, Trump said immigrants were “poisoning the blood of our country,” language&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hitler-poison-blood-history-f8c3ff512edd120252596a4743324352">similar to what Adolf Hitler said</a>&nbsp;to dehumanize Jews in Nazi Germany.</p><p>During his first White House term, Trump referred to a swath of developing nations that are majority Black as “shithole countries.” He initially denied using the slur but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-slur-haiti-africa-immigration-28aa0785d6f3c68fd4d9e823b6397429">admitted in December 2025</a>&nbsp;that he did say it.</p><p>When Obama was in the White House, Trump advanced the false claims that the 44th president, who was born in Hawaii, was born in Kenya and was constitutionally ineligible to serve. Trump, in interviews that helped endear him to many conservative voters, repeatedly demanded that Obama produce birth records and prove he was a “natural-born citizen” as required to become president.</p><p>Obama eventually released his Hawaii records. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-presidential-election-general-news-events-61f7085d848248cd98410027d33f2101">finally acknowledged</a>&nbsp;during his 2016 campaign, after having won the Republican nomination, that Obama was born in Hawaii. But he immediately said, falsely, that his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton started those birtherism attacks on Obama.</p><p>___ Barrow reported from Atlanta.</p>

White House explains now deleted Trump 'racist' post about Obamas

<b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Thursday was a warm day in Hays and it set a record high for the date.

According to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, the temperature on Feb. 5 hit 71 degrees.&nbsp;

That surpassed the former high of 69 degrees set in 2009.&nbsp;

Above average temperatures continue in the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/53c46bfd-af16-4289-9644-e939645b46fa">three-day weather forecast</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701959478623.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Thursday was a warm day in Hays and it set a record high for the date.</p><p>According to the official report from the K-State Agricultural Research Center, the temperature on Feb. 5 hit 71 degrees.&nbsp;</p><p>That surpassed the former high of 69 degrees set in 2009.&nbsp;</p><p>Above average temperatures continue in the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/53c46bfd-af16-4289-9644-e939645b46fa">three-day weather forecast</a>.&nbsp;</p>

Thursday sets a record high temperature in Hays

<b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i>

A Hays High School senior is premiering his short documentary, "The Last Miles North," at 7:30 tonight at the Hays High School Performing Arts Center.

Connor Werth, 17, of Hays, documented the last trip to Canada with his grandfather, Evan Noll, before his graduation.

Werth wants to pursue a film career and completed the project independently of any high school coursework.

The 19-minute film focuses on the emotional trip as Werth grapples with growing up and decisions about his future, he said.

"The context for this is that our local theater shut down, and I wanted the community to celebrate local art," he said. "I do care about film, and I wanted to reach out through theater and celebrate the new Hays High Performing arts Center and share work from students."

Werth has not finalized his plans for after graduation. He is contemplating college and waiting on an acceptance letter, but is also considering moving to the West Coast to pursue freelance film work.

The event is free and open to the public. It will begin with a short presentation about he and his grandfather's trip. A Q&amp;A with Werth and his grandfather, who will be seeing the film for the first time Friday, will follow the film.

Refreshments will be served in the lobby after the premiere.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770331378623.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>A Hays High School senior is premiering his short documentary, "The Last Miles North," at 7:30 tonight at the Hays High School Performing Arts Center.</p><p>Connor Werth, 17, of Hays, documented the last trip to Canada with his grandfather, Evan Noll, before his graduation.</p><p>Werth wants to pursue a film career and completed the project independently of any high school coursework.</p><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0YfUraqkw-0?si=sIt-u-HG_ZKpBtsF" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p>The 19-minute film focuses on the emotional trip as Werth grapples with growing up and decisions about his future, he said.</p><p>"The context for this is that our local theater shut down, and I wanted the community to celebrate local art," he said. "I do care about film, and I wanted to reach out through theater and celebrate the new Hays High Performing arts Center and share work from students."</p><p>Werth has not finalized his plans for after graduation. He is contemplating college and waiting on an acceptance letter, but is also considering moving to the West Coast to pursue freelance film work.</p><p>The event is free and open to the public. It will begin with a short presentation about he and his grandfather's trip. A Q&amp;A with Werth and his grandfather, who will be seeing the film for the first time Friday, will follow the film.</p><p>Refreshments will be served in the lobby after the premiere.</p>

Hays High student to premier short documentary at HHS tonight

Lt. Gov. David Toland informed the Victoria Community Coalition Thursday morning that it will receive a $425,000 grant to build garages for the St. John's Place Senior Living apartments.

The community coalition renovated the  former nursing home, and it opened 12 apartments in 2025.

Brenda Dreiling, chairwoman of the coalition board, said many people have expressed interest in the apartment but want a garage for their vehicles. The garages will be built on the north side of the apartments.

The project is being funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The coalition had previously received an American Rescue Plan Act grant toward the apartment renovations.

The federal funds must be used by the end of the year, but Dreiling said she did not anticipate any issues meeting that deadline.

Toland said the state received hundreds of project applications, but St. John's Place scored very well.

"At the end of the day, I love to do small-town projects where there are a lot of volunteer efforts involved, where you have a mix of different uses," Toland said.

"Between the residential side, the historical society, the child care, when they get that launched, I think those models work, and I think that's where we can best invest these limited funds," he said.

The apartments are designed for independent living for moderate-income seniors.&nbsp;You must be 55 years old or older to apply for an apartment. Rates cover water, sewer, trash and gas.

The facility still has apartments available. If you are interested in learning more about renting an apartment, you visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">Victoria Community Coalition website</a>. You can also call 785-735-2204.

The apartments are only one phase of a multi-phase, multi-agency renovation of the former nursing home.

Other projects planned by the coalition include Airbnb rooms on the south side of the apartments, a senior center in the former nursing home chapel, a coffee shop, a child care center and a commercial kitchen.

Toland also toured a section of the building that the Ellis Historical Society is renovating.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6454123-e1a4-446d-95f8-2a4870f81803">The society received a $35,000 grant from the Department of Commerce in May for the renovations.</a>

"As someone who evaluates grant applications and signs off at the end, I want to know if there is widespread community support," Toland said. "Are people willing to write checks, swing hammers, haul debris to the dump? That's what we have here."&nbsp;

In addition, the historical society has been selling plaques honoring local Volga German families that will hang inside the satellite location. That effort has already raised $150,000 for the project, Mary Kay Schippers, historical society board president, said.

Schippers said donations have come from 15 states from people who had family ties to Ellis County.

Toland said it's remarkable how much pride people have in the place they are from.

The south side of the building will have a gift shop, a gallery focusing on the Volga German heritage of Ellis County, exhibits on Ellis County oil and agriculture, and the Walker Air Force Base.&nbsp;

At the east end of the historical society wing, it plans to establish a children's discovery center and a lending library in cooperation with the Ellis County Library system.

Renovations on the second story of the historical society space are complete, and that space is being used for artifact storage.

Amanda Rupp, historical society executive director, said the society hopes to have a new HVAC system, new floor coverings, and restrooms installed by August, when the Annual International Convention of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia will be in Hays.

2026 is the 150th anniversary of Volga Germans settling in Ellis County, and a slate of activities has been scheduled throughout the year to celebrate.

The anniversary of Volga Germans arriving in Hays will be Feb. 14. Smaller Volga German communities were settled throughout the area after that first arrival.

The historical society and coalition are separate nonprofits with separate projects at St. John's Place. You can learn more about the historical society and how to donate to the Victoria project on its <a href="https://www.echshays.org/">website</a> or follow it on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ECHSHays">Facebook</a>.

"You've done something that is incredible," Toland told Dreiling. "I am just so pleased that we made the investments we did on the state end, and it's such a good project.

"It is so heartening to go from seeing a list, a spreadsheet with a name and a number, to be able to walk through here and be able to see that the funds have been so well used."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770324017852.jpeg" alt="Lt. Gov. David Toland announced Thursday the&nbsp;Victoria Community Coalition&nbsp;will receive a $425,000 grant to build garages for the St. John's Place Senior Living apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Lt. Gov. David Toland announced Thursday the&nbsp;Victoria Community Coalition&nbsp;will receive a $425,000 grant to build garages for the St. John's Place Senior Living apartments.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Lt. Gov. David Toland informed the Victoria Community Coalition Thursday morning that it will receive a $425,000 grant to build garages for the St. John's Place Senior Living apartments.</p><p>The community coalition renovated the  former nursing home, and it opened 12 apartments in 2025.</p><p>Brenda Dreiling, chairwoman of the coalition board, said many people have expressed interest in the apartment but want a garage for their vehicles. The garages will be built on the north side of the apartments.</p><p>The project is being funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The coalition had previously received an American Rescue Plan Act grant toward the apartment renovations.</p><p>The federal funds must be used by the end of the year, but Dreiling said she did not anticipate any issues meeting that deadline.</p><p>Toland said the state received hundreds of project applications, but St. John's Place scored very well.</p><p>"At the end of the day, I love to do small-town projects where there are a lot of volunteer efforts involved, where you have a mix of different uses," Toland said.</p><p>"Between the residential side, the historical society, the child care, when they get that launched, I think those models work, and I think that's where we can best invest these limited funds," he said.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770324241263.jpeg" alt="Lt. Gov. David Toland receives a hug from Brenda Dreiling of the Victoria Community Coalition after he tells her the coalition is receiving a $425,000 grant to build garages at the St. John's Place Senior Living. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Lt. Gov. David Toland receives a hug from Brenda Dreiling of the Victoria Community Coalition after he tells her the coalition is receiving a $425,000 grant to build garages at the St. John's Place Senior Living. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770324476126.jpeg" alt="Toland touring one of the St. John's Place apartments with Brenda Dreiling of the Victoria Community Coalition. The complex includes&nbsp;one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio independent senior-living apartments. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Toland touring one of the St. John's Place apartments with Brenda Dreiling of the Victoria Community Coalition. The complex includes&nbsp;one-bedroom, two-bedroom and studio independent senior-living apartments. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The apartments are designed for independent living for moderate-income seniors.&nbsp;You must be 55 years old or older to apply for an apartment. Rates cover water, sewer, trash and gas.</p><p>The facility still has apartments available. If you are interested in learning more about renting an apartment, you visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.victoriakscommunity.com/">Victoria Community Coalition website</a>. You can also call 785-735-2204.</p><p>The apartments are only one phase of a multi-phase, multi-agency renovation of the former nursing home.</p><p>Other projects planned by the coalition include Airbnb rooms on the south side of the apartments, a senior center in the former nursing home chapel, a coffee shop, a child care center and a commercial kitchen.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770324388678.jpeg" alt="The former chapel of the St. John's Nursing Home, which the Victoria Community Coalition hopes to renovate into a senior center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>The former chapel of the St. John's Nursing Home, which the Victoria Community Coalition hopes to renovate into a senior center.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770325211371.jpeg" alt="One of the unrenovated rooms in the former nursing home. The community helped gut portions of the building before contractors took over. The coalition also replaced the roof, which had been leaking and caused significant damage. The coalition hopes to renovate the remaining rooms in the building in later phases.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>One of the unrenovated rooms in the former nursing home. The community helped gut portions of the building before contractors took over. The coalition also replaced the roof, which had been leaking and caused significant damage. The coalition hopes to renovate the remaining rooms in the building in later phases.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770325425867.jpeg" alt="Dreiling and Toland in an area of St. John's Place that the Victoria Community Coalition hopes to renovate into a commercial kitchen.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Dreiling and Toland in an area of St. John's Place that the Victoria Community Coalition hopes to renovate into a commercial kitchen.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Toland also toured a section of the building that the Ellis Historical Society is renovating.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b6454123-e1a4-446d-95f8-2a4870f81803">The society received a $35,000 grant from the Department of Commerce in May for the renovations.</a></p><p>"As someone who evaluates grant applications and signs off at the end, I want to know if there is widespread community support," Toland said. "Are people willing to write checks, swing hammers, haul debris to the dump? That's what we have here."&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770326105041.jpeg" alt="Toland, right, and&nbsp;Mary Kay Schippers, left, historical society board president, discuss the renovation work at St. John Place for the Ellis County Historical Society satellite campus.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Toland, right, and&nbsp;Mary Kay Schippers, left, historical society board president, discuss the renovation work at St. John Place for the Ellis County Historical Society satellite campus.&nbsp;Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>In addition, the historical society has been selling plaques honoring local Volga German families that will hang inside the satellite location. That effort has already raised $150,000 for the project, Mary Kay Schippers, historical society board president, said.</p><p>Schippers said donations have come from 15 states from people who had family ties to Ellis County.</p><p>Toland said it's remarkable how much pride people have in the place they are from.</p><p>The south side of the building will have a gift shop, a gallery focusing on the Volga German heritage of Ellis County, exhibits on Ellis County oil and agriculture, and the Walker Air Force Base.&nbsp;</p><p>At the east end of the historical society wing, it plans to establish a children's discovery center and a lending library in cooperation with the Ellis County Library system.</p><p>Renovations on the second story of the historical society space are complete, and that space is being used for artifact storage.</p><p>Amanda Rupp, historical society executive director, said the society hopes to have a new HVAC system, new floor coverings, and restrooms installed by August, when the Annual International Convention of the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia will be in Hays.</p><p>2026 is the 150th anniversary of Volga Germans settling in Ellis County, and a slate of activities has been scheduled throughout the year to celebrate.</p><p>The anniversary of Volga Germans arriving in Hays will be Feb. 14. Smaller Volga German communities were settled throughout the area after that first arrival.</p><p>The historical society and coalition are separate nonprofits with separate projects at St. John's Place. You can learn more about the historical society and how to donate to the Victoria project on its <a href="https://www.echshays.org/">website</a> or follow it on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ECHSHays">Facebook</a>.</p><p>"You've done something that is incredible," Toland told Dreiling. "I am just so pleased that we made the investments we did on the state end, and it's such a good project.</p><p>"It is so heartening to go from seeing a list, a spreadsheet with a name and a number, to be able to walk through here and be able to see that the funds have been so well used."</p>

St. John's Place in Victoria to receive $425,000 to build garages

By SEJAL GOVINDARAO, JACQUES BILLEAUD and JOHN SEEWER Associated Press

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — “Today” show host&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/savannah-guthrie">Savannah Guthrie's</a>&nbsp;brother on Thursday renewed the family's plea for their mother's kidnapper to contact them, hours after an Arizona sheriff said investigators don't have proof&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-nancy-042abd04a6d87e14eecb22f0bc2893d1">Nancy Guthrie</a>&nbsp;is alive but believe “she's still out there.”

“Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven’t heard anything directly,” Camron Guthrie said in a video posted on social media.

“We need you to reach out and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward,” but first the family needs to know the kidnapper has their mother, he said, echoing a statement his famous sister read the day before.

Five days into the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-0d6b55fd24f54b2526fd5f8894a52ff2">desperate search</a>&nbsp;for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, authorities have not identified any suspects or persons of interest, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said.

Authorities think she was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-6c7b78d17d7b647c64f71f64ecaecf8b">taken against her will</a>&nbsp;from her home in Tucson over the weekend. DNA tests showed blood found on Guthrie’s front porch was a match to her, the sheriff said.

“Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” Nanos said at a news conference earlier Thursday. He acknowledged, however, that authorities have no evidence she’s OK.

Investigators said they are taking seriously notes seeking ransom that were sent to some media outlets.

It's unclear if all of the notes were identical. Heith Janke, the FBI chief in Phoenix, said details included a demand for money with a Thursday evening deadline and a second deadline for Monday if the first one wasn't met. At least one note mentioned a floodlight at Guthrie's home and an Apple watch, Janke said.

“To anyone who may be involved, do the right thing. This is an 84-year-old grandma,” Janke said.

At least three media organizations reported receiving purported ransom notes, which they handed over to investigators. Authorities made an arrest after one ransom note turned out to be fake, the sheriff said.

A note e-mailed Monday to the KOLD-TV newsroom in Tucson included information that only the abductor would know, anchor Mary Coleman told CNN.

“When we saw some of those details, it was clear after a couple of sentences that this might not be a hoax,” she said.

The sheriff said it’s possible Nancy Guthrie was targeted, but if she was, investigators don’t know if that’s because her daughter is one of television’s most visible anchors.

Authorities say any decision on whether to fulfill ransom demands ultimately is up to the family.

A day earlier, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-nancy-guthrie-mom-missing-88e8731270d05e6e667730d2ed8633d3">message to her mother’s kidnapper</a>, saying they are ready to talk but want proof their mom is still alive. There's been no response to their pleas so far.

Investigators gave a more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mom-missing-nancy-adaa8af43efe04c252a52616d9037a05">detailed timeline</a>&nbsp;from the hours after Nancy Guthrie was last seen Saturday night. She was eating dinner and playing games with family members before one of them dropped her off at her home in a upscale neighborhood that sits on hilly, desert terrain, the sheriff said.

About four hours later, just before 2 a.m. Sunday, the home’s doorbell camera was disconnected, Nanos said. But Guthrie did not have an active subscription, so the doorbell company was unable to recover any footage.

Software data recorded movement at the home minutes later, the sheriff said, acknowledging that the motion could have come from an animal.

Then at 2:28 a.m. the app on Guthrie’s pacemaker was disconnected from her phone.

Guthrie&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-74d845b070fefe2d94cb92d655308e91">was reported missing</a>&nbsp;shortly before noon Sunday after she didn’t show up at a church.

While she is able to drive and her mind is sharp, the sheriff said she has difficulty walking even short distances. She also requires daily medicine that's vital to her health, he has said.

<p>By SEJAL GOVINDARAO, JACQUES BILLEAUD and JOHN SEEWER Associated Press</p><p>TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — “Today” show host&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/savannah-guthrie">Savannah Guthrie's</a>&nbsp;brother on Thursday renewed the family's plea for their mother's kidnapper to contact them, hours after an Arizona sheriff said investigators don't have proof&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-nancy-042abd04a6d87e14eecb22f0bc2893d1">Nancy Guthrie</a>&nbsp;is alive but believe “she's still out there.”</p><p>“Whoever is out there holding our mother, we want to hear from you. We haven’t heard anything directly,” Camron Guthrie said in a video posted on social media.</p><div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUZULrXkqXb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUZULrXkqXb/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; 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<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div><p>“We need you to reach out and we need a way to communicate with you so we can move forward,” but first the family needs to know the kidnapper has their mother, he said, echoing a statement his famous sister read the day before.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Statement from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department: <a href="https://t.co/fHMq1Jx9Tw">pic.twitter.com/fHMq1Jx9Tw</a></p>&mdash; Pima County Sheriff&#39;s Department (@PimaSheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/PimaSheriff/status/2019538101279027629?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Five days into the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-0d6b55fd24f54b2526fd5f8894a52ff2">desperate search</a>&nbsp;for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, authorities have not identified any suspects or persons of interest, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said.</p><p>Authorities think she was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-6c7b78d17d7b647c64f71f64ecaecf8b">taken against her will</a>&nbsp;from her home in Tucson over the weekend. DNA tests showed blood found on Guthrie’s front porch was a match to her, the sheriff said.</p><p>“Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” Nanos said at a news conference earlier Thursday. He acknowledged, however, that authorities have no evidence she’s OK.</p><h2>Demands for ransom</h2><p>Investigators said they are taking seriously notes seeking ransom that were sent to some media outlets.</p><p>It's unclear if all of the notes were identical. Heith Janke, the FBI chief in Phoenix, said details included a demand for money with a Thursday evening deadline and a second deadline for Monday if the first one wasn't met. At least one note mentioned a floodlight at Guthrie's home and an Apple watch, Janke said.</p><p>“To anyone who may be involved, do the right thing. This is an 84-year-old grandma,” Janke said.</p><p>At least three media organizations reported receiving purported ransom notes, which they handed over to investigators. Authorities made an arrest after one ransom note turned out to be fake, the sheriff said.</p><p>A note e-mailed Monday to the KOLD-TV newsroom in Tucson included information that only the abductor would know, anchor Mary Coleman told CNN.</p><p>“When we saw some of those details, it was clear after a couple of sentences that this might not be a hoax,” she said.</p><p>The sheriff said it’s possible Nancy Guthrie was targeted, but if she was, investigators don’t know if that’s because her daughter is one of television’s most visible anchors.</p><p>Authorities say any decision on whether to fulfill ransom demands ultimately is up to the family.</p><p>A day earlier, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-nancy-guthrie-mom-missing-88e8731270d05e6e667730d2ed8633d3">message to her mother’s kidnapper</a>, saying they are ready to talk but want proof their mom is still alive. There's been no response to their pleas so far.</p><h2>New timeline of Guthrie's disappearance</h2><p>Investigators gave a more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mom-missing-nancy-adaa8af43efe04c252a52616d9037a05">detailed timeline</a>&nbsp;from the hours after Nancy Guthrie was last seen Saturday night. She was eating dinner and playing games with family members before one of them dropped her off at her home in a upscale neighborhood that sits on hilly, desert terrain, the sheriff said.</p><p>About four hours later, just before 2 a.m. Sunday, the home’s doorbell camera was disconnected, Nanos said. But Guthrie did not have an active subscription, so the doorbell company was unable to recover any footage.</p><p>Software data recorded movement at the home minutes later, the sheriff said, acknowledging that the motion could have come from an animal.</p><p>Then at 2:28 a.m. the app on Guthrie’s pacemaker was disconnected from her phone.</p><h2>Search enters a fifth day</h2><p>Guthrie&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-74d845b070fefe2d94cb92d655308e91">was reported missing</a>&nbsp;shortly before noon Sunday after she didn’t show up at a church.</p><p>While she is able to drive and her mind is sharp, the sheriff said she has difficulty walking even short distances. She also requires daily medicine that's vital to her health, he has said.</p><p>A sheriff’s dispatcher said during the search Sunday that Guthrie has high blood pressure, a pacemaker and heart issues, according to audio from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.broadcastify.com/">broadcastify.com</a>.</p><p>Investigators searched in and around Guthrie’s home again for several hours Wednesday.</p><p>Authorities are bringing more resources and people into the investigation, and the FBI announced Thursday it was offering up to $50,000 for information. A day earlier, President Donald Trump posted on social media that he was directing federal authorities to help where they can.</p><h2>Savannah Guthrie's emotional plea</h2><p>Savannah Guthrie has hosted “Today” — NBC’s flagship morning show — for more than a decade and had been set to co-anchor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-olympics-host-nbc-mary-carillo-94c13d18ac30129cc37e6990ac2c31f1">the network’s coverage</a>&nbsp;of Friday’s opening ceremony for the Winter Olympics. For now, she's staying close to her mother's home.</p><p>She joined her two siblings in an emotional plea on social media Wednesday to say they're ready to talk to whoever sent the ransom notes.</p><p>“We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us,” she said while fighting off tears.</p><p>With her voice cracking, she addressed her mother directly, saying the family was praying for her and that people were looking for her. She was flanked by Camron and their sister, Annie.</p><p>“Mamma, If you’re listening, we need you to come home. We miss you,” Annie Guthrie said.</p><p>___</p><p>This story has been corrected to show that the sheriff said it’s possible Nancy Guthrie was targeted, not that investigators have believed from the beginning that she was targeted.</p><p>___</p><p>Billeaud reported from Phoenix and Seewer from Toledo, Ohio. Associated Press writers Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu contributed.</p>