MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Justice Department is investigating whether Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have impeded federal immigration enforcement through public statements they have made, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The investigation focused on potential violation of a conspiracy statute, the people said.

The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss a pending investigation by name.

CBS News first reported the investigation.

In response to reports of the investigation, Walz said in a statement: “Two days ago it was Elissa Slotkin. Last week it was Jerome Powell. Before that, Mark Kelly. Weaponizing the justice system and threatening political opponents is a dangerous, authoritarian tactic.”

Senators Kelly and Slotkin, U.S. senators Arizona and Michigan, are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/slotkin-trump-investigation-democrats-video-illegal-orders-a4714c0008e4b48b2baf260470096812">under investigation</a>&nbsp;from the Trump administration after appearing with other Democratic lawmakers in a video urging members of the military to resist “illegal orders,” while the administration has launched a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-subpoena-bf4fc6c690fa248fbc531bc9bc7f1758">criminal investigation</a>&nbsp;of Powell, the federal reserve chair.

Walz’s office said it has not received any notice of an investigation.

Frey described the investigation as an attempt to intimidate him for “standing up for Minneapolis, our local law enforcement, and our residents against the chaos and danger this Administration has brought to our streets.”

“I will not be intimidated,” he added. "My focus will remain where it’s always been: keeping our city safe.

The investigation comes during a weekslong immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul that the Department of Homeland Security has called its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-ice-noem-minnesota-somali-db661df6de1131a034da2bda4bb3d817">largest enforcement operation</a>, resulting in more than 2,500 arrests.

The operation has become more confrontational since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">fatal shooting of Renee Good on Jan. 7</a>. State and local officials have repeatedly told protesters to remain peaceful.

The U.S. attorney’s office in Minneapolis did not immediately comment.

In a post on the social media platform X following reports of the investigation,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pam-bondi">Attorney General Pam Bondi</a>&nbsp;said: “A reminder to all those in Minnesota: No one is above the law.” She did not specifically mention the investigation.

State authorities, meanwhile, had a message for any weekend protests against the Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-protests-immigration-agents-crowd-control-policing-ice-dhs-bd9335c2b0b793a3bff5c51287a80819">unprecedented immigration sweep</a>&nbsp;in the Twin Cities: avoid confrontation.

“While peaceful expression is protected, any actions that harm people, destroy property or jeopardize public safety will not be tolerated,” said Commissioner Bob Jacobson of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

His comments came after President Donald Trump backed off a bit from his threat a day earlier to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-insurrection-act-history-fdr-minneapolis-901631b98c96a425dc0c9b10a041bdac">invoke an 1807 law</a>, the Insurrection Act, to send troops to suppress demonstrations.

“I don’t think there’s any reason right now to use it, but if I needed it, I’d use it,” Trump told reporters outside the White House.

A Liberian man who has been shuttled in and out of custody since immigration agents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-protests-shootings-minneapolis-portland-3f9db36657dda5bfebf9c240b6011ee5">broke down his door</a>&nbsp;with a battering ram was released again Friday, hours after a routine check-in with authorities led to his second arrest.

The dramatic initial arrest of Garrison Gibson last weekend was captured on video. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Bryan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-arrest-judge-orders-release-garrison-gibson-0d584d5efa50661ee920fda57a401a2f">ruled the arrest unlawful</a>&nbsp;Thursday and freed him, but Gibson was detained again Friday when he appeared at an immigration office.

A few hours later, Gibson was free again, attorney Marc Prokosch said.

“In the words of my client, he said that somebody at ICE said they bleeped up and so they re-released him this afternoon and so he’s out of custody,” Prokosch said, referring to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Gibson, 37, who fled the civil war in his West African home country as a child, had been ordered removed from the U.S., apparently because of a 2008 drug conviction that was later dismissed. He has remained in the country legally under what’s known as an order of supervision, Prokosch said, and complied with the requirement that he meet regularly with immigration authorities.

In his Thursday order, the judge agreed that officials violated regulations by not giving Gibson enough notice that his supervision status had been revoked. Prokosch said he was told by ICE that they are “now going through their proper channels" to revoke the order.

Meanwhile, tribal leaders and Native American rights organizations are advising anyone with a tribal ID to carry it with them when out in public in case they are approached by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.

Native Americans across the U.S. have reported being stopped or detained by ICE, and tribal leaders are asking members to report these contacts.

Democratic members of Congress held a local meeting Friday to hear from people who say they've had aggressive encounters with immigration agents. St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, who is Hmong American, said people are walking around with their passports in case they are challenged, and she has received reports of ICE agents going from door to door “asking where the Asian people live.” Thousands of Hmong people, largely from the Southeast Asian nation of Laos, have settled in the United States since the 1970s.

911 caller: Good was shot ‘point blank’

Minneapolis authorities released police and fire dispatch logs and transcripts of 911 calls, all related to the fatal shooting of Good. Firefighters found what appeared to be two gunshot wounds in her right chest, one in her left forearm and a possible gunshot wound on the left side of her head, records show.

“They shot her, like, cause she wouldn’t open her car door,” a caller said. “Point blank range in her car.”

Good, 37, was at the wheel of her Honda Pilot, which was partially blocking a street. Video showed an officer approached the SUV, demanded that she open the door and grabbed the handle.

Good began to pull forward and turned the vehicle's wheel to the right. Another ICE officer, Jonathan Ross, pulled his gun and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-shooting-lethal-force-ice-vehicle-924518502d8dd9ad3cb03a476a278818">fired at close range</a>, jumping back as the SUV moved past him. DHS claims the agent shot Good in self-defense.

FBI Director Kash Patel said at least one person has been arrested for stealing property from an FBI vehicle in Minneapolis. The SUV was among government vehicles whose windows were broken Wednesday evening. Attorney General Pam Bondi said body armor and weapons were stolen.

The destruction occurred when agents were responding to a shooting during an immigration arrest. Trump subsequently said on social media that he would invoke the Insurrection Act if Minnesota officials don’t stop the “professional agitators and insurrectionists” there.

Minnesota’s attorney general responded by saying he would sue if the president acts.

Richer and Tucker reported from Washington. Associated Press reporters Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis; Ed White and Corey Williams in Detroit; Graham Lee Brewer in Oklahoma City; Jesse Bedayn in Denver; Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu; Hallie Golden in Seattle; and Ben Finley in Washington contributed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768610962226.png" alt="Minnesoty Gov. Tim Walz-photo from video provided by the governor's office" />
 <figcaption>Minnesoty Gov. Tim Walz-photo from video provided by the governor's office</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Justice Department is investigating whether Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have impeded federal immigration enforcement through public statements they have made, according to two people familiar with the matter.The investigation focused on potential violation of a conspiracy statute, the people said.The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss a pending investigation by name.CBS News first reported the investigation.In response to reports of the investigation, Walz said in a statement: “Two days ago it was Elissa Slotkin. Last week it was Jerome Powell. Before that, Mark Kelly. Weaponizing the justice system and threatening political opponents is a dangerous, authoritarian tactic.”Senators Kelly and Slotkin, U.S. senators Arizona and Michigan, are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/slotkin-trump-investigation-democrats-video-illegal-orders-a4714c0008e4b48b2baf260470096812">under investigation</a>&nbsp;from the Trump administration after appearing with other Democratic lawmakers in a video urging members of the military to resist “illegal orders,” while the administration has launched a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-subpoena-bf4fc6c690fa248fbc531bc9bc7f1758">criminal investigation</a>&nbsp;of Powell, the federal reserve chair.Walz’s office said it has not received any notice of an investigation.Frey described the investigation as an attempt to intimidate him for “standing up for Minneapolis, our local law enforcement, and our residents against the chaos and danger this Administration has brought to our streets.”“I will not be intimidated,” he added. "My focus will remain where it’s always been: keeping our city safe.The investigation comes during a weekslong immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and St. Paul that the Department of Homeland Security has called its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-ice-noem-minnesota-somali-db661df6de1131a034da2bda4bb3d817">largest enforcement operation</a>, resulting in more than 2,500 arrests.The operation has become more confrontational since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">fatal shooting of Renee Good on Jan. 7</a>. State and local officials have repeatedly told protesters to remain peaceful.The U.S. attorney’s office in Minneapolis did not immediately comment.In a post on the social media platform X following reports of the investigation,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pam-bondi">Attorney General Pam Bondi</a>&nbsp;said: “A reminder to all those in Minnesota: No one is above the law.” She did not specifically mention the investigation.<h2>State calls for peaceful protests</h2>State authorities, meanwhile, had a message for any weekend protests against the Trump administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-protests-immigration-agents-crowd-control-policing-ice-dhs-bd9335c2b0b793a3bff5c51287a80819">unprecedented immigration sweep</a>&nbsp;in the Twin Cities: avoid confrontation.“While peaceful expression is protected, any actions that harm people, destroy property or jeopardize public safety will not be tolerated,” said Commissioner Bob Jacobson of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.His comments came after President Donald Trump backed off a bit from his threat a day earlier to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-insurrection-act-history-fdr-minneapolis-901631b98c96a425dc0c9b10a041bdac">invoke an 1807 law</a>, the Insurrection Act, to send troops to suppress demonstrations.“I don’t think there’s any reason right now to use it, but if I needed it, I’d use it,” Trump told reporters outside the White House.<h2>Detention whiplash</h2>A Liberian man who has been shuttled in and out of custody since immigration agents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-protests-shootings-minneapolis-portland-3f9db36657dda5bfebf9c240b6011ee5">broke down his door</a>&nbsp;with a battering ram was released again Friday, hours after a routine check-in with authorities led to his second arrest.The dramatic initial arrest of Garrison Gibson last weekend was captured on video. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Bryan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minnesota-arrest-judge-orders-release-garrison-gibson-0d584d5efa50661ee920fda57a401a2f">ruled the arrest unlawful</a>&nbsp;Thursday and freed him, but Gibson was detained again Friday when he appeared at an immigration office.A few hours later, Gibson was free again, attorney Marc Prokosch said.“In the words of my client, he said that somebody at ICE said they bleeped up and so they re-released him this afternoon and so he’s out of custody,” Prokosch said, referring to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.Gibson, 37, who fled the civil war in his West African home country as a child, had been ordered removed from the U.S., apparently because of a 2008 drug conviction that was later dismissed. He has remained in the country legally under what’s known as an order of supervision, Prokosch said, and complied with the requirement that he meet regularly with immigration authorities.In his Thursday order, the judge agreed that officials violated regulations by not giving Gibson enough notice that his supervision status had been revoked. Prokosch said he was told by ICE that they are “now going through their proper channels" to revoke the order.<h2>Native Americans urged to carry IDs</h2>Meanwhile, tribal leaders and Native American rights organizations are advising anyone with a tribal ID to carry it with them when out in public in case they are approached by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.Native Americans across the U.S. have reported being stopped or detained by ICE, and tribal leaders are asking members to report these contacts.Democratic members of Congress held a local meeting Friday to hear from people who say they've had aggressive encounters with immigration agents. St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, who is Hmong American, said people are walking around with their passports in case they are challenged, and she has received reports of ICE agents going from door to door “asking where the Asian people live.” Thousands of Hmong people, largely from the Southeast Asian nation of Laos, have settled in the United States since the 1970s.<h2>911 caller: Good was shot ‘point blank’</h2>Minneapolis authorities released police and fire dispatch logs and transcripts of 911 calls, all related to the fatal shooting of Good. Firefighters found what appeared to be two gunshot wounds in her right chest, one in her left forearm and a possible gunshot wound on the left side of her head, records show.“They shot her, like, cause she wouldn’t open her car door,” a caller said. “Point blank range in her car.”Good, 37, was at the wheel of her Honda Pilot, which was partially blocking a street. Video showed an officer approached the SUV, demanded that she open the door and grabbed the handle.Good began to pull forward and turned the vehicle's wheel to the right. Another ICE officer, Jonathan Ross, pulled his gun and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/minneapolis-shooting-lethal-force-ice-vehicle-924518502d8dd9ad3cb03a476a278818">fired at close range</a>, jumping back as the SUV moved past him. DHS claims the agent shot Good in self-defense.<h2>Arrest in FBI vehicle incident</h2>FBI Director Kash Patel said at least one person has been arrested for stealing property from an FBI vehicle in Minneapolis. The SUV was among government vehicles whose windows were broken Wednesday evening. Attorney General Pam Bondi said body armor and weapons were stolen.The destruction occurred when agents were responding to a shooting during an immigration arrest. Trump subsequently said on social media that he would invoke the Insurrection Act if Minnesota officials don’t stop the “professional agitators and insurrectionists” there.Minnesota’s attorney general responded by saying he would sue if the president acts.___Richer and Tucker reported from Washington. Associated Press reporters Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis; Ed White and Corey Williams in Detroit; Graham Lee Brewer in Oklahoma City; Jesse Bedayn in Denver; Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu; Hallie Golden in Seattle; and Ben Finley in Washington contributed.

Justice Dept. investigating whether Minnesota Gov. impeded immigration enforcement

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">The Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;agreed on Friday to hear an appeal from global agrochemical manufacturer Bayer to block thousands of state lawsuits alleging it failed to warn people that its popular weedkiller could cause cancer.

The justices will consider whether the Environmental Protection Agency's approval of the Roundup weedkiller without a cancer warning should rule out the state court claims.

The Trump administration has weighed in on Bayer's behalf, reversing the Biden administration's position and putting it at odds with some supporters of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-kennedy-trump-health-hhs-maha-5e1e9e3208c42b6a185facad26e3b457">the Make America Healthy Again agenda</a>&nbsp;who oppose giving the company the legal immunity it seeks.

Some studies associate Roundup’s key ingredient, glyphosate, with cancer, although the EPA has said it is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/glyphosate">not likely to be carcinogenic</a>&nbsp;to humans when used as directed.

Bayer disputes the cancer claims but has set aside $16 billion to settle cases. At the same time, it has tried to persuade states to pass laws barring the lawsuits. Georgia and North Dakota have done so.

The high court will take up a case from Missouri, in which a jury awarded $1.25 million to a man who developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after spraying Roundup on a community garden in St. Louis.

The Supreme Court in 2022 declined to hear a similar claim from Bayer in a California case that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lifestyle-environment-and-nature-california-san-francisco-b0ef61238f5e83778fb12e748bc97593">awarded more than $86 million</a>&nbsp;to a married couple.

But Germany-based Bayer, which acquired Roundup maker Monsanto in 2018, contends the Supreme Court should intervene now because lower courts have issued conflicting rulings. In 2024, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in Bayer’s favor.

Bayer faces about 181,000 Roundup claims, mostly from residential users. It has stopped using glyphosate in Roundup sold in the U.S. residential lawn and garden market. But glyphosate remains in agricultural products. It’s designed to be used with genetically modified seeds, including corn, soybeans and cotton, that resist the weedkiller’s deadly effect. It allows farmers to produce more while conserving the soil by tilling it less.

Bayer has said it might have to consider pulling glyphosate from U.S. agricultural markets if the lawsuits persist.

"It is time for the U.S. legal system to establish that companies should not be punished under state laws for complying with federal warning label requirements,” Bayer CEO Bill Anderson said in a statement.

Environmental groups said Bayer wants to keep juries out of the lawsuits because it keeps losing in state courts.

"It’s a sad day in America when our highest court agrees to consider depriving thousands of Roundup users suffering from cancer of their day in court,” said Lori Ann Burd, environmental health director at the Center for Biological Diversity.

It’s unclear if the case will be argued in the spring or at the start of the next court term, in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593022262288.png" alt="Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MARK SHERMAN&nbsp;WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">The Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;agreed on Friday to hear an appeal from global agrochemical manufacturer Bayer to block thousands of state lawsuits alleging it failed to warn people that its popular weedkiller could cause cancer.The justices will consider whether the Environmental Protection Agency's approval of the Roundup weedkiller without a cancer warning should rule out the state court claims.The Trump administration has weighed in on Bayer's behalf, reversing the Biden administration's position and putting it at odds with some supporters of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-kennedy-trump-health-hhs-maha-5e1e9e3208c42b6a185facad26e3b457">the Make America Healthy Again agenda</a>&nbsp;who oppose giving the company the legal immunity it seeks.Some studies associate Roundup’s key ingredient, glyphosate, with cancer, although the EPA has said it is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/glyphosate">not likely to be carcinogenic</a>&nbsp;to humans when used as directed.Bayer disputes the cancer claims but has set aside $16 billion to settle cases. At the same time, it has tried to persuade states to pass laws barring the lawsuits. Georgia and North Dakota have done so.The high court will take up a case from Missouri, in which a jury awarded $1.25 million to a man who developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after spraying Roundup on a community garden in St. Louis.The Supreme Court in 2022 declined to hear a similar claim from Bayer in a California case that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lifestyle-environment-and-nature-california-san-francisco-b0ef61238f5e83778fb12e748bc97593">awarded more than $86 million</a>&nbsp;to a married couple.But Germany-based Bayer, which acquired Roundup maker Monsanto in 2018, contends the Supreme Court should intervene now because lower courts have issued conflicting rulings. In 2024, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in Bayer’s favor.Bayer faces about 181,000 Roundup claims, mostly from residential users. It has stopped using glyphosate in Roundup sold in the U.S. residential lawn and garden market. But glyphosate remains in agricultural products. It’s designed to be used with genetically modified seeds, including corn, soybeans and cotton, that resist the weedkiller’s deadly effect. It allows farmers to produce more while conserving the soil by tilling it less.Bayer has said it might have to consider pulling glyphosate from U.S. agricultural markets if the lawsuits persist."It is time for the U.S. legal system to establish that companies should not be punished under state laws for complying with federal warning label requirements,” Bayer CEO Bill Anderson said in a statement.Environmental groups said Bayer wants to keep juries out of the lawsuits because it keeps losing in state courts."It’s a sad day in America when our highest court agrees to consider depriving thousands of Roundup users suffering from cancer of their day in court,” said Lori Ann Burd, environmental health director at the Center for Biological Diversity.It’s unclear if the case will be argued in the spring or at the start of the next court term, in October.___

Supreme Court will hear appeal by maker of weedkiller to block thousands of lawsuits

Doris M. Casey, 100, Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on
Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Brookdale Senior Living. 

She was born on March 15, 1925, in Plainville, Kansas to
Charles and Anna (Johnson) Marston. Doris graduated from Plainville High School
in 1943.&nbsp; She briefly joined the
workforce as a switchboard operator at the local telephone company before
enlisting in the United States military. Doris bravely and dutifully
volunteered to serve her country during World War II in the Navy’s
groundbreaking WAVES program (Women Accepted for Volunteer Services). She was
trained in medical care and support and was stationed in the Pacific Northwest.
After returning home from service, she married Donald M. Casey on November 26,
1947. Together they took up residence on the Casey family farm east of
Plainville, where she lived and worked as a farmwife for many decades. From this
union, Donald and Doris had one son, Thomas E. Casey.&nbsp; She retired from the farm and moved back to
Plainville where she volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic School as a preschool
teacher’s aide. Years later, she transitioned to Hays to be closer to family. 

Throughout her life, Doris enjoyed every form of crafting,
including crochet, quilting, painting, drawing, and decorating cakes. She was a
devout member of Plainville’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Sacred Heart
Ladies Guild. She woke up early each day to pray rosaries for her loved ones.
Doris prioritized staying active with swimming being her favorite form of
exercise. She loved to play poker, had mastered the art of delivering a good
joke, and made the best kolaches in town.&nbsp;
She was a proud member of VFW Post #8871 and VFW Auxiliary #8871. 

Doris is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mary (Hackerott)
Casey; her grandchildren Amy (Paul) Matlack, Spencer (Michelle) Casey, Kim
(Frank) Musalek, and Robyn (Brandon) Crichton; as well as her ten beloved great
grandchildren: Laura Casey, Nate Matlack, Hailey (Garrett) Rounsley, Nick
Matlack, Abbey Musalek, Ryan Casey, Ella Musalek, Lexi Casey, Luke Musalek, and
Colin Crichton. She was preceded in death by her husband, only son, parents,
twin brother Delmar (Dorothy) Marston, brother Jack (Louise) Marston, brother
Darrell Fred Marston, stepfather Jess Morris, and many beloved in-laws and
friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Monday,
January 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors
by the Plainville VFW Post #8871 Honor Guard will be at 2:00 pm in Sacred Heart
Cemetery in Plainville.&nbsp; Visitation will
be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Sunday and from 10:00 am until 10:45 on Monday,
all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Sunday at the funeral
home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to Sacred
Heart Catholic School in Plainville or to VFW Post #8871.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Doris may be
shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768599562704.jpeg" alt="Doris M. Casey" />
 <figcaption>Doris M. Casey</figcaption>
 </figure>Doris M. Casey, 100, Hays, Kansas, passed away peacefully on
Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Brookdale Senior Living. She was born on March 15, 1925, in Plainville, Kansas to
Charles and Anna (Johnson) Marston. Doris graduated from Plainville High School
in 1943.&nbsp; She briefly joined the
workforce as a switchboard operator at the local telephone company before
enlisting in the United States military. Doris bravely and dutifully
volunteered to serve her country during World War II in the Navy’s
groundbreaking WAVES program (Women Accepted for Volunteer Services). She was
trained in medical care and support and was stationed in the Pacific Northwest.
After returning home from service, she married Donald M. Casey on November 26,
1947. Together they took up residence on the Casey family farm east of
Plainville, where she lived and worked as a farmwife for many decades. From this
union, Donald and Doris had one son, Thomas E. Casey.&nbsp; She retired from the farm and moved back to
Plainville where she volunteered at Sacred Heart Catholic School as a preschool
teacher’s aide. Years later, she transitioned to Hays to be closer to family. Throughout her life, Doris enjoyed every form of crafting,
including crochet, quilting, painting, drawing, and decorating cakes. She was a
devout member of Plainville’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Sacred Heart
Ladies Guild. She woke up early each day to pray rosaries for her loved ones.
Doris prioritized staying active with swimming being her favorite form of
exercise. She loved to play poker, had mastered the art of delivering a good
joke, and made the best kolaches in town.&nbsp;
She was a proud member of VFW Post #8871 and VFW Auxiliary #8871. Doris is survived by her daughter-in-law, Mary (Hackerott)
Casey; her grandchildren Amy (Paul) Matlack, Spencer (Michelle) Casey, Kim
(Frank) Musalek, and Robyn (Brandon) Crichton; as well as her ten beloved great
grandchildren: Laura Casey, Nate Matlack, Hailey (Garrett) Rounsley, Nick
Matlack, Abbey Musalek, Ryan Casey, Ella Musalek, Lexi Casey, Luke Musalek, and
Colin Crichton. She was preceded in death by her husband, only son, parents,
twin brother Delmar (Dorothy) Marston, brother Jack (Louise) Marston, brother
Darrell Fred Marston, stepfather Jess Morris, and many beloved in-laws and
friends.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Monday,
January 19, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.&nbsp; Burial with military honors
by the Plainville VFW Post #8871 Honor Guard will be at 2:00 pm in Sacred Heart
Cemetery in Plainville.&nbsp; Visitation will
be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Sunday and from 10:00 am until 10:45 on Monday,
all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp;
A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Sunday at the funeral
home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to Sacred
Heart Catholic School in Plainville or to VFW Post #8871.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Doris may be
shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Doris M. Casey

SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after noon Friday in Sherman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Mistrie L.&nbsp; Duarte, 49, Cedar City, Utah, was westbound on Interstate 70 two miles east of the Kansas 267 exit. The driver&nbsp;lost control of vehicle&nbsp; due to high winds and the vehicle rolled into the median.

&nbsp;EMS transported Duarte to the hospital in Goodland. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP

There has been a semi crash as of 11:18 this morning in the westbound lanes of Interstate 70 near Kanorado and the Colorado line.

Check&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/">Kandrive</a> for developing road conditions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768598032749.png" alt="KanDrive image Friday afternoon on I-70 near Kanarado&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>KanDrive image Friday afternoon on I-70 near Kanarado&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after noon Friday in Sherman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Mistrie L.&nbsp; Duarte, 49, Cedar City, Utah, was westbound on Interstate 70 two miles east of the Kansas 267 exit. The driver&nbsp;lost control of vehicle&nbsp; due to high winds and the vehicle rolled into the median.&nbsp;EMS transported Duarte to the hospital in Goodland. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP------------------Hays PostThere has been a semi crash as of 11:18 this morning in the westbound lanes of Interstate 70 near Kanorado and the Colorado line.Traffic may be restricted.Check&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/">Kandrive</a> for developing road conditions.

Driver hospitalized after wind blows semi over on I-70

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A grass fire was reported in Gove County between mile markers 83 and 84 on Interstate 70.

Gove County Undersheriff Mike Haase said the fire spread southeast across about one and a half to two miles of grassland.&nbsp;He said the fire is 90% contained as of 1:56 p.m.

No structures were impacted, and no injuries were reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766163984197.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA grass fire was reported in Gove County between mile markers 83 and 84 on Interstate 70.Gove County Undersheriff Mike Haase said the fire spread southeast across about one and a half to two miles of grassland.&nbsp;He said the fire is 90% contained as of 1:56 p.m.No structures were impacted, and no injuries were reported.

Gove County fire mostly contained

Update: The reported power outage is a planned outage, and residents were notified in advance.

As a high wind warning is in effect across northwestern Kansas, the City of Ellis is already experiencing power outages, according to <a href="https://outageviewer.mwenergy.com/">Midwest Energy</a>.

As of 11:05 a.m., 322 Midwest Energy customers are without electricity.&nbsp;

According to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19jG24faJz/">National Weather Service in Dodge City</a>, peak wind gusts of 55 to 60 mph are likely, with 65 mph gusts across mainly far west central Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768582487168.png" alt="Power outages in Ellis for Midwest Energy&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Power outages in Ellis for Midwest Energy&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostUpdate: The reported power outage is a planned outage, and residents were notified in advance.---As a high wind warning is in effect across northwestern Kansas, the City of Ellis is already experiencing power outages, according to <a href="https://outageviewer.mwenergy.com/">Midwest Energy</a>.As of 11:05 a.m., 322 Midwest Energy customers are without electricity.&nbsp;According to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19jG24faJz/">National Weather Service in Dodge City</a>, peak wind gusts of 55 to 60 mph are likely, with 65 mph gusts across mainly far west central Kansas.

UPDATE: Planned power outage in city of Ellis

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Social media companies have revoked access to about 4.7 million accounts identified as belonging to children in Australia since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/australia-social-media-ban-under-16-children-8b992efa5138704bc02ee9fc974f6987">the country banned use of the platforms</a>&nbsp;by those under 16, officials said.

“We stared down everybody who said it couldn’t be done, some of the most powerful and rich companies in the world and their supporters,” communications minister Anika Wells told reporters on Friday. “Now Australian parents can be confident that their kids can have their childhoods back.”

The figures, reported to Australia’s government by 10 social media platforms, were the first to show the scale of the landmark ban since it was enacted in December over fears about the effects of harmful online environments on young people. The law&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/australia-social-media-ban-children-1abadf5445418c8c14f5f68cf76b38d0">provoked fraught debates</a>&nbsp;in Australia about technology use, privacy, child safety and mental health and has prompted other countries to consider similar measures.

Officials said the figure was encouraging

Under Australian law, Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube and Twitch face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars ($33.2 million) if they fail to take reasonable steps to remove the accounts of Australian children younger than 16. Messaging services such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are exempt.

To verify age, platforms can either request copies of identification documents, use a third party to apply age estimation technology to an account holder’s face, or make inferences from data already available such has how long an account has been held.

About 2.5 million Australians are aged between 8 and 15, said the country’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, and past estimates suggested 84% of 8- to 12-year-olds held social media accounts. It was not known how many accounts were held across the 10 platforms but Inman Grant said the figure of 4.7 million “deactivated or restricted” was encouraging.

“We’re preventing predatory social media companies from accessing our children,” Inman Grant said.

The 10 biggest companies covered by the ban were compliant with it and had reported removal figures to Australia's regulator on time, the commissioner said. She added that social media companies were expected to shift their efforts from enforcing the ban to preventing children from creating new accounts or otherwise circumventing the prohibition.

Australian officials didn’t break the figures down by platform. But Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and Threads, said this week that by the day after the ban came into effect it had removed nearly 550,000 accounts belonging to users understood to be under 16.

In the blog post divulging the figures, Meta criticized the ban and said smaller platforms where the ban doesn't apply might not prioritize safety. The company also noted browsing platforms would still present content to children based on algorithms — a concern that led to the ban's enactment.

The law was widely popular among parents and child safety campaigners. Online privacy advocates and some groups representing teenagers opposed it, with the latter citing the support found in online spaces by vulnerable young people or those&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/australia-social-media-ban-children-f92aae52b59a6ded4d931856051f4e06">geographically isolated</a>&nbsp;in Australia’s sprawling rural areas.

Some said they had managed to fool age assessing technologies or were helped by parents or older siblings to circumvent the ban.

Since Australia began debating the measures in 2024, other countries have considered following suit. Denmark’s government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/after-australia-denmark-plans-social-media-ban-for-children-151a8afeda7146ef8f9e95e175cb937b">is among them</a>, saying in November that it had planned to implement a social media ban for children under 15.

“The fact that in spite of some skepticism out there, it’s working and being replicated now around the world, is something that is a source of Australian pride,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Friday.

Opposition lawmakers have suggested that young people have circumvented the ban easily or are migrating to other apps that are less scrutinized than the largest platforms. Inman Grant said Friday that data seen by her office showed a spike in downloads of alternative apps when the ban was enacted but not a spike in usage.

“There is no real long-term trends yet that we can say but we’re engaging,” she said.

Meanwhile, she said, the regulator she heads planned to introduce “world-leading AI companion and chatbot restrictions in March.” She didn’t disclose further details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673457414258.jpeg" alt="AP&nbsp; photo" />
 <figcaption>AP&nbsp; photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Social media companies have revoked access to about 4.7 million accounts identified as belonging to children in Australia since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/australia-social-media-ban-under-16-children-8b992efa5138704bc02ee9fc974f6987">the country banned use of the platforms</a>&nbsp;by those under 16, officials said.“We stared down everybody who said it couldn’t be done, some of the most powerful and rich companies in the world and their supporters,” communications minister Anika Wells told reporters on Friday. “Now Australian parents can be confident that their kids can have their childhoods back.”The figures, reported to Australia’s government by 10 social media platforms, were the first to show the scale of the landmark ban since it was enacted in December over fears about the effects of harmful online environments on young people. The law&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/australia-social-media-ban-children-1abadf5445418c8c14f5f68cf76b38d0">provoked fraught debates</a>&nbsp;in Australia about technology use, privacy, child safety and mental health and has prompted other countries to consider similar measures.<h2>Officials said the figure was encouraging</h2>Under Australian law, Facebook, Instagram, Kick, Reddit, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube and Twitch face fines of up to 49.5 million Australian dollars ($33.2 million) if they fail to take reasonable steps to remove the accounts of Australian children younger than 16. Messaging services such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are exempt.To verify age, platforms can either request copies of identification documents, use a third party to apply age estimation technology to an account holder’s face, or make inferences from data already available such has how long an account has been held.About 2.5 million Australians are aged between 8 and 15, said the country’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, and past estimates suggested 84% of 8- to 12-year-olds held social media accounts. It was not known how many accounts were held across the 10 platforms but Inman Grant said the figure of 4.7 million “deactivated or restricted” was encouraging.“We’re preventing predatory social media companies from accessing our children,” Inman Grant said.The 10 biggest companies covered by the ban were compliant with it and had reported removal figures to Australia's regulator on time, the commissioner said. She added that social media companies were expected to shift their efforts from enforcing the ban to preventing children from creating new accounts or otherwise circumventing the prohibition.<h2>Meta removed 550,000 accounts</h2>Australian officials didn’t break the figures down by platform. But Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and Threads, said this week that by the day after the ban came into effect it had removed nearly 550,000 accounts belonging to users understood to be under 16.In the blog post divulging the figures, Meta criticized the ban and said smaller platforms where the ban doesn't apply might not prioritize safety. The company also noted browsing platforms would still present content to children based on algorithms — a concern that led to the ban's enactment.The law was widely popular among parents and child safety campaigners. Online privacy advocates and some groups representing teenagers opposed it, with the latter citing the support found in online spaces by vulnerable young people or those&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/australia-social-media-ban-children-f92aae52b59a6ded4d931856051f4e06">geographically isolated</a>&nbsp;in Australia’s sprawling rural areas.Some said they had managed to fool age assessing technologies or were helped by parents or older siblings to circumvent the ban.<h2>Other countries might follow</h2>Since Australia began debating the measures in 2024, other countries have considered following suit. Denmark’s government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/after-australia-denmark-plans-social-media-ban-for-children-151a8afeda7146ef8f9e95e175cb937b">is among them</a>, saying in November that it had planned to implement a social media ban for children under 15.“The fact that in spite of some skepticism out there, it’s working and being replicated now around the world, is something that is a source of Australian pride,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Friday.Opposition lawmakers have suggested that young people have circumvented the ban easily or are migrating to other apps that are less scrutinized than the largest platforms. Inman Grant said Friday that data seen by her office showed a spike in downloads of alternative apps when the ban was enacted but not a spike in usage.“There is no real long-term trends yet that we can say but we’re engaging,” she said.Meanwhile, she said, the regulator she heads planned to introduce “world-leading AI companion and chatbot restrictions in March.” She didn’t disclose further details.

4.7M kids removed from social media in first month of historic ban

KANSAS CITY (AP) —A Jackson County official says he met ICE officials looking at a large, potential detention space in Kansas City.

Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca posted a video on social media of two federal agents telling him he was trespassing after he showed up at a nearly 1-million-square-foot (93,000-square-meter) warehouse on the outskirts of Kansas City.

He says he was ultimately allowed to enter the building and that officials told him they were looking for locations for a large facility. He told The Associated Press that one of the officials inside was Shawn Byers, the deputy field office director for ICE in Chicago.

In a statement, an ICE spokesperson did not address the Kansas City location or Abarca’s comments but said it should not come as news that the agency is working to expand detention space.

ICE was given $45 billion for detention centers in the tax and spending bill that Trump signed last year.

KANSAS CITY (AP) —A Jackson County official says he met ICE officials looking at a large, potential detention space in Kansas City.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Folks, I shared the below video in nearly the moments it happened: I was informed that ICE/DHS was touring a potential “mega detention facility” in south <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KansasCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KansasCity</a> and decided to stop by. As I was observing, from my truck at a taxpayer subsidized facility; I was swarmed by… <a href="https://t.co/PF6g52gO6s">pic.twitter.com/PF6g52gO6s</a>&mdash; Manny Abarca (@MannyAbarcaIV) <a href="https://twitter.com/MannyAbarcaIV/status/2011843933517631828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Jackson County Legislator Manny Abarca posted a video on social media of two federal agents telling him he was trespassing after he showed up at a nearly 1-million-square-foot (93,000-square-meter) warehouse on the outskirts of Kansas City.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, Kansas City took action to protect our community&#39;s priorities. A 5-year ban on non-city detention facilities ensures our focus stays on building businesses, homes, and schools, not large-scale detention centers. <a href="https://t.co/qVZOJdlUlN">pic.twitter.com/qVZOJdlUlN</a>&mdash; Mayor Quinton Lucas (@MayorLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorLucasKC/status/2011923905234059523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He says he was ultimately allowed to enter the building and that officials told him they were looking for locations for a large facility. He told The Associated Press that one of the officials inside was Shawn Byers, the deputy field office director for ICE in Chicago.In a statement, an ICE spokesperson did not address the Kansas City location or Abarca’s comments but said it should not come as news that the agency is working to expand detention space.ICE was given $45 billion for detention centers in the tax and spending bill that Trump signed last year.

ICE officials looking at large detention space in Kansas City

WASHINGTON (AP) — Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday even as he has questioned her credibility to take over her country after the U.S. ousted then-President Nicolás Maduro.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-machado-nobel-peace-prize-c7f47c161edc9b719dea3d0165f32a1f">Nobel Institute</a>&nbsp;has said Machado could not give her prize to Trump, an honor that he has coveted. Even if it the gesture proves to be purely symbolic, it was extraordinary given that Trump has effectively sidelined Machado, who has long been the face of resistance in Venezuela. He has signaled his willingness to work with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/delcy-rodriguez-maduro-trump-venezuela-e71f2289bc801446e05550d8f900a8d1">acting President Delcy Rodríguez</a>, who had been Maduro’s second in command.

“I presented the president of the United States the medal, the Nobel Peace Prize,” Machado told reporters after leaving the White House and heading to Capitol Hill. She said she had done so “as a recognition for his unique commitment with our freedom.”

Trump confirmed later on social media that Machado had left the medal for him to keep, and he said it was an honor to meet her.

“She is a wonderful woman who has been through so much. María presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done,” Trump said in his post. “Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you María!”

The White House later posted a photo of Machado standing next to Trump in the Oval Office as he holds the medal in a large frame. A text in the frame reads, “Presented as a personal symbol of gratitude on behalf of the Venezuelan people in recognition of President Trump’s principled and decisive action to secure a free Venezuela.”

Trump has raised doubts about his stated commitment to backing democratic rule in Venezuela, giving no timetable on when elections might be held. Machado indicated that he had provided few specifics on that front during their discussion.

She did not provide more information on what was said.

After the closed-door meeting, Machado greeted dozens of cheering supporters waiting for her near the White House gates, stopping to hug many.

“We can count on President Trump,” she told them without elaborating, prompting some to briefly chant, “Thank you, Trump.”

Before her visit to Washington, Machado had not been seen in public since she traveled last month to Norway, where her daughter received the peace prize on her behalf. She had spent 11 months in hiding in Venezuela before she appeared in Norway after the ceremony.

The jubilant scene after her meeting with Trump stood in contrast to political realities in Venezuela. Rodríguez remains in charge of day-to-day government operations, along with others in Maduro’s inner circle. In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-delcy-rodriguez-state-of-union-trump-us-b5c53860386752930a56d1d8846d6440">her first state of the union speech</a>&nbsp;Thursday, the interim president promoted the resumption of diplomatic ties between the historic adversaries and advocated for opening the state-run oil industry to more foreign investment after Trump pledged to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-oil-revenue-companies-sales-bdd21181e08889d6cca93f5acc7c0ee0">seize control</a>&nbsp;of Venezuelan crude sales.

Trump has said it would be difficult for Machado to lead because she “doesn’t have the support within or the respect within the country.” Her party is widely believed to have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-election-tally-sheets-actas-oas-carter-center-41d1000926d0ab99e522e53bf6c2b916">won 2024 elections</a>&nbsp;rejected by Maduro.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt called Machado “a remarkable and brave voice” but also said the meeting didn’t mean Trump’s opinion of her changed, calling it “a realistic assessment.”

Leavitt told reporters that Trump supported new Venezuelan elections “when the time is right” but did not say when he thought that might be.

A ‘frank and positive discussion’ about Venezuela

Leavitt said Machado had sought the face-to-face meeting without setting expectations for what would occur. She spent about two and a half hours at the White House.

“I don’t think he needs to hear anything from Ms. Machado,” the press secretary said while the meeting was still going on, other than to have a ”frank and positive discussion about what’s taking place in Venezuela.”

After leaving the White House, Machado went on to a closed-door meeting with a bipartisan group of senators.

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said Machado told them that “if there’s not some progress, real progress towards a transition in power, and/or elections in the next several months, we should all be worried.”

“She reminded us that Delcy Rodríguez is, in many ways, worse than Maduro,” he added.

Asked if Machado had heard any commitment from the White House on holding elections in Venezuela, Murphy said, “No, I don’t think she got any commitment from them.”

Sen. Bernie Moreno, an Ohio Republican, was exultant following the meeting, saying Machado “delivered a message that loud and clear: What President Trump did was the most important, significant event in Latin America. That getting rid of Maduro was absolutely essential.”

Machado’s Washington stop coincided with U.S. forces in the Caribbean Sea&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-sanctioned-oil-tanker-seized-a415e247fca429b00b9fbcf6b6cd90a5">seizing another sanctioned oil tanker</a>&nbsp;that the Trump administration says had ties to Venezuela. It is part of a broader U.S. effort to take control of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-us-explosions-caracas-ca712a67aaefc30b1831f5bf0b50665e">the South American country’s oil</a>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-presidential-palace-blowtorches-7969152ae48510003fe9cbde92f3c102">U.S. forces captured Maduro</a>&nbsp;and his wife less than two weeks ago at a heavily guarded compound in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas and brought them to New York to stand trial on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/maduro-venezuela-trump-criminal-case-131f59e517cc8314a53c8dace230d328">drug trafficking charges</a>.

Leavitt said Venezuela’s interim authorities have been fully cooperating with the Trump administration and noted that Rodríguez’s government said it planned to release more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-prisoners-released-us-maduro-rodriguez-7dc52c3ed6251f561b7754fd50182588">prisoners detained under Maduro</a>. Among those released were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezeula-american-detainees-released-43f779bfccc1c5df98780938a30a3417">five Americans</a>&nbsp;this week.

Trump said Wednesday that he had a “great conversation” with Rodríguez, their first since Maduro was ousted.

Just hours after Maduro’s capture, Trump said of Machado that “it would be very tough for her to be the leader.” Machado had steered a careful course to avoid offending Trump, notably after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-peace-prize-oslo-41b6bff88e2d57af0917bcf778e132ad">winning the peace prize</a>, and had sought to cultivate relationships with him and key administration voices like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rubio-venezuela-greenland-trump-maduro-60481ca89c1fa4ec94f692d648141051">Secretary of State Marco Rubio</a>.

The industrial engineer and daughter of a steel magnate, Machado began challenging the ruling party in 2004, when the nongovernmental organization she co-founded, Súmate, promoted a referendum to recall then-President Hugo Chávez. The initiative failed, and Machado and other Súmate executives were charged with conspiracy.

A year later, she drew the anger of Chávez and his allies again for traveling to Washington to meet President George W. Bush, whom Chávez considered an adversary.

Almost two decades later, she marshaled millions of Venezuelans to reject Chávez’s successor, Maduro, for another term in the 2024 election. But ruling party-loyal electoral authorities declared him the winner despite ample credible evidence to the contrary. Ensuing anti-government protests ended in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-maduro-election-edmundo-gonzalez-rights-75393ebfa98a0ae7f30801547265c2ba">brutal crackdown</a>.

Garcia Cano reported from Caracas, Venezuela. Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro, Stephen Groves, Michelle L. Price and Matthew Lee in Washington, and Megan Janetsky in Mexico City contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768569274886.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday even as he has questioned her credibility to take over her country after the U.S. ousted then-President Nicolás Maduro.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-machado-nobel-peace-prize-c7f47c161edc9b719dea3d0165f32a1f">Nobel Institute</a>&nbsp;has said Machado could not give her prize to Trump, an honor that he has coveted. Even if it the gesture proves to be purely symbolic, it was extraordinary given that Trump has effectively sidelined Machado, who has long been the face of resistance in Venezuela. He has signaled his willingness to work with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/delcy-rodriguez-maduro-trump-venezuela-e71f2289bc801446e05550d8f900a8d1">acting President Delcy Rodríguez</a>, who had been Maduro’s second in command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/nlGbtxEp3G">pic.twitter.com/nlGbtxEp3G</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2011964069075448319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Donald J. Trump meets with María Corina Machado of Venezuela in the Oval Office, during which she presented the President with her Nobel Peace Prize in recognition and honor.🕊️ <a href="https://t.co/v7pYHjVNVO">pic.twitter.com/v7pYHjVNVO</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2012006221340164338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“I presented the president of the United States the medal, the Nobel Peace Prize,” Machado told reporters after leaving the White House and heading to Capitol Hill. She said she had done so “as a recognition for his unique commitment with our freedom.”Trump confirmed later on social media that Machado had left the medal for him to keep, and he said it was an honor to meet her.“She is a wonderful woman who has been through so much. María presented me with her Nobel Peace Prize for the work I have done,” Trump said in his post. “Such a wonderful gesture of mutual respect. Thank you María!”The White House later posted a photo of Machado standing next to Trump in the Oval Office as he holds the medal in a large frame. A text in the frame reads, “Presented as a personal symbol of gratitude on behalf of the Venezuelan people in recognition of President Trump’s principled and decisive action to secure a free Venezuela.”Trump has raised doubts about his stated commitment to backing democratic rule in Venezuela, giving no timetable on when elections might be held. Machado indicated that he had provided few specifics on that front during their discussion.She did not provide more information on what was said.<h2>‘We can count on President Trump’</h2>After the closed-door meeting, Machado greeted dozens of cheering supporters waiting for her near the White House gates, stopping to hug many.“We can count on President Trump,” she told them without elaborating, prompting some to briefly chant, “Thank you, Trump.”Before her visit to Washington, Machado had not been seen in public since she traveled last month to Norway, where her daughter received the peace prize on her behalf. She had spent 11 months in hiding in Venezuela before she appeared in Norway after the ceremony.The jubilant scene after her meeting with Trump stood in contrast to political realities in Venezuela. Rodríguez remains in charge of day-to-day government operations, along with others in Maduro’s inner circle. In&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-delcy-rodriguez-state-of-union-trump-us-b5c53860386752930a56d1d8846d6440">her first state of the union speech</a>&nbsp;Thursday, the interim president promoted the resumption of diplomatic ties between the historic adversaries and advocated for opening the state-run oil industry to more foreign investment after Trump pledged to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-oil-revenue-companies-sales-bdd21181e08889d6cca93f5acc7c0ee0">seize control</a>&nbsp;of Venezuelan crude sales.Trump has said it would be difficult for Machado to lead because she “doesn’t have the support within or the respect within the country.” Her party is widely believed to have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-election-tally-sheets-actas-oas-carter-center-41d1000926d0ab99e522e53bf6c2b916">won 2024 elections</a>&nbsp;rejected by Maduro.White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt called Machado “a remarkable and brave voice” but also said the meeting didn’t mean Trump’s opinion of her changed, calling it “a realistic assessment.”Leavitt told reporters that Trump supported new Venezuelan elections “when the time is right” but did not say when he thought that might be.<h2>A ‘frank and positive discussion’ about Venezuela</h2>Leavitt said Machado had sought the face-to-face meeting without setting expectations for what would occur. She spent about two and a half hours at the White House.“I don’t think he needs to hear anything from Ms. Machado,” the press secretary said while the meeting was still going on, other than to have a ”frank and positive discussion about what’s taking place in Venezuela.”After leaving the White House, Machado went on to a closed-door meeting with a bipartisan group of senators.Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said Machado told them that “if there’s not some progress, real progress towards a transition in power, and/or elections in the next several months, we should all be worried.”“She reminded us that Delcy Rodríguez is, in many ways, worse than Maduro,” he added.Asked if Machado had heard any commitment from the White House on holding elections in Venezuela, Murphy said, “No, I don’t think she got any commitment from them.”Sen. Bernie Moreno, an Ohio Republican, was exultant following the meeting, saying Machado “delivered a message that loud and clear: What President Trump did was the most important, significant event in Latin America. That getting rid of Maduro was absolutely essential.”Machado’s Washington stop coincided with U.S. forces in the Caribbean Sea&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-sanctioned-oil-tanker-seized-a415e247fca429b00b9fbcf6b6cd90a5">seizing another sanctioned oil tanker</a>&nbsp;that the Trump administration says had ties to Venezuela. It is part of a broader U.S. effort to take control of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-us-explosions-caracas-ca712a67aaefc30b1831f5bf0b50665e">the South American country’s oil</a>&nbsp;after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-presidential-palace-blowtorches-7969152ae48510003fe9cbde92f3c102">U.S. forces captured Maduro</a>&nbsp;and his wife less than two weeks ago at a heavily guarded compound in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas and brought them to New York to stand trial on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/maduro-venezuela-trump-criminal-case-131f59e517cc8314a53c8dace230d328">drug trafficking charges</a>.Leavitt said Venezuela’s interim authorities have been fully cooperating with the Trump administration and noted that Rodríguez’s government said it planned to release more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-prisoners-released-us-maduro-rodriguez-7dc52c3ed6251f561b7754fd50182588">prisoners detained under Maduro</a>. Among those released were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezeula-american-detainees-released-43f779bfccc1c5df98780938a30a3417">five Americans</a>&nbsp;this week.Trump said Wednesday that he had a “great conversation” with Rodríguez, their first since Maduro was ousted.<h2>Machado doesn’t get the nod from Trump</h2>Just hours after Maduro’s capture, Trump said of Machado that “it would be very tough for her to be the leader.” Machado had steered a careful course to avoid offending Trump, notably after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-peace-prize-oslo-41b6bff88e2d57af0917bcf778e132ad">winning the peace prize</a>, and had sought to cultivate relationships with him and key administration voices like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rubio-venezuela-greenland-trump-maduro-60481ca89c1fa4ec94f692d648141051">Secretary of State Marco Rubio</a>.The industrial engineer and daughter of a steel magnate, Machado began challenging the ruling party in 2004, when the nongovernmental organization she co-founded, Súmate, promoted a referendum to recall then-President Hugo Chávez. The initiative failed, and Machado and other Súmate executives were charged with conspiracy.A year later, she drew the anger of Chávez and his allies again for traveling to Washington to meet President George W. Bush, whom Chávez considered an adversary.Almost two decades later, she marshaled millions of Venezuelans to reject Chávez’s successor, Maduro, for another term in the 2024 election. But ruling party-loyal electoral authorities declared him the winner despite ample credible evidence to the contrary. Ensuing anti-government protests ended in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-maduro-election-edmundo-gonzalez-rights-75393ebfa98a0ae7f30801547265c2ba">brutal crackdown</a>.___Garcia Cano reported from Caracas, Venezuela. Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro, Stephen Groves, Michelle L. Price and Matthew Lee in Washington, and Megan Janetsky in Mexico City contributed to this report.

What President Trump said about gift of Machado's Nobel Peace Prize

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Six pets in the care of the Humane Society of the High Plains are in desperate need of medical care.

The Humane Society, a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter, is seeking public support to fund veterinary bills for these pets.

Taryn Faulkender, shelter community outreach coordinator, said even when the shelter has mostly healthy animals, its vet bill can average $1,200 per month.

But these six pets, most of which came in over the holidays, have special needs.

The shelter does not have a vet on staff. Sometimes vets offer a small discount for the shelter, but the cost of vet services is rising, Faulkender said.

"When we take in that many animals that have all these health issues, it's a big, big bill for us," she said.

Olga, who Faulkender described as a sweet, shy old lady, was picked up as a stray, but&nbsp;Faulkender  believes she originally came from a home because she was spayed and her fur was in good condition.

However, she has a severe ear infection and needs antibiotics. She will need to return to the vet for a sedated ear cleaning.

Mowgli, a rotweiler, had essentially been abandoned by his owners and was being temporarily cared for by a neighbor until he was surrendered.

He had been kept on a chain in a yard and was malnourished and extremely underweight when he came to the shelter,&nbsp;Faulkender said.

"He leans his head on your arms and leans his entire body on you,"&nbsp;Faulkender said. "He just knows he's safe."

He is on a special diet and will need to return to the vet for wellness checks. He was loaded with parasites when he came in and had open wounds that needed to be treated.&nbsp;

"He had pretty poor care of life for the last couple of months, and we're going to try to get him to bounce back because he's too young to be looking like that,"&nbsp;Faulkender said.

Ellie and Stephanie are young, bouncy schnauzers who originally came from a puppy mill, one that had been listed among the 100 worst puppy mills in the nation,&nbsp;Faulkender said.

Both dogs have ulcers on their eyes and have experienced swelling that has affected their vision. They will need to return to the vet to determine whether surgery is necessary.

Both girls love wearing their sweaters as they heal and wait for adoption.

Zena is a husky-shepherd mix who has an overgrowth on her bone that may have been caused by a previous injury.&nbsp;Faulkender said Zena is very submissive and may have been mistreated in her earlier life.

The vet would like to perform an exploratory surgery to determine how to fix Zena's injury.

"She's a big doll,"&nbsp;Faulkender said. "She is one of these big dogs who just wants to be in your lap. She always rolls over and shows you her belly. She's kind of a sensitive little girl ... very sweet, very talkative."

Faulkender is personally fostering Hugo, likely an American bully mix.

"He's my foster boy. He is a big, goofy, goober," she said. "He's very clumsy."

He has low thyroid and will need to continue to take thyroid medication for the rest of his life. He needed an ear flush to clear yeast from his ears and medicated baths to address skin issues.

Faulkender described Hugo as a manatee. He is subdued and easy-going.

He was pulled from the Garden City Humane Society because he wasn't getting any views for adoption, she said.

Once these pets have been cleared medically, they will all be up for adoption.

The sooner the pets can be treated and adopted, the better,&nbsp;Faulkender said. Prolonged illness or a stay in the shelter can affect the animal's mental health. Mental health issues can also further affect the animal's physical health, she said.

If you wish to financially support their care or the shelter in general, you can donate in the following ways:

If you wish to mail a check, you can send those donations to Humane Society of the High Plains, P.O. Box 311, Hays, KS 67601.

Cash or checks can also be dropped off in person at the shelter at 2050 E. Highway 40, Hays.

You can learn more about the Humane Society and see pets up for adoption on their <a href="https://hshponline.org/">website</a> or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HSHPHays">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768338175114.jpeg" alt="Ellie is one of two surrendered schnauzers in need of veterinary treatment at the Humane Society of the High Plains. The shelter is seeking donations to cover their vet bills and the expenses of four other shelter pets that have serious health concerns. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellie is one of two surrendered schnauzers in need of veterinary treatment at the Humane Society of the High Plains. The shelter is seeking donations to cover their vet bills and the expenses of four other shelter pets that have serious health concerns. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSix pets in the care of the Humane Society of the High Plains are in desperate need of medical care.The Humane Society, a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter, is seeking public support to fund veterinary bills for these pets.Taryn Faulkender, shelter community outreach coordinator, said even when the shelter has mostly healthy animals, its vet bill can average $1,200 per month.But these six pets, most of which came in over the holidays, have special needs.The shelter does not have a vet on staff. Sometimes vets offer a small discount for the shelter, but the cost of vet services is rising, Faulkender said."When we take in that many animals that have all these health issues, it's a big, big bill for us," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768337198578.png" alt="Olga is a senior cat, who is battling an ear infection. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Olga is a senior cat, who is battling an ear infection. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Olga, who Faulkender described as a sweet, shy old lady, was picked up as a stray, but&nbsp;Faulkender believes she originally came from a home because she was spayed and her fur was in good condition.However, she has a severe ear infection and needs antibiotics. She will need to return to the vet for a sedated ear cleaning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768337843277.jpeg" alt="Mowgli&nbsp;was malnourished and extremely underweight when he came to the shelter. He is on a special diet to bring him back to wellness. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Mowgli&nbsp;was malnourished and extremely underweight when he came to the shelter. He is on a special diet to bring him back to wellness. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mowgli, a rotweiler, had essentially been abandoned by his owners and was being temporarily cared for by a neighbor until he was surrendered.He had been kept on a chain in a yard and was malnourished and extremely underweight when he came to the shelter,&nbsp;Faulkender said."He leans his head on your arms and leans his entire body on you,"&nbsp;Faulkender said. "He just knows he's safe."He is on a special diet and will need to return to the vet for wellness checks. He was loaded with parasites when he came in and had open wounds that needed to be treated.&nbsp;"He had pretty poor care of life for the last couple of months, and we're going to try to get him to bounce back because he's too young to be looking like that,"&nbsp;Faulkender said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768337325792.jpeg" alt="Stephanie and her companion, Ellie, are both bouncy, young schnauzers, but they are suffering from ulcers on their eyes and might need surgery. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stephanie and her companion, Ellie, are both bouncy, young schnauzers, but they are suffering from ulcers on their eyes and might need surgery. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768337347560.jpeg" alt="Ellie and Stephanie were surrendered by their owner, but were bred at a puppy mill. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Ellie and Stephanie were surrendered by their owner, but were bred at a puppy mill. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellie and Stephanie are young, bouncy schnauzers who originally came from a puppy mill, one that had been listed among the 100 worst puppy mills in the nation,&nbsp;Faulkender said.Both dogs have ulcers on their eyes and have experienced swelling that has affected their vision. They will need to return to the vet to determine whether surgery is necessary.Both girls love wearing their sweaters as they heal and wait for adoption.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768337560560.jpeg" alt="Zena just wants to curl up in your lap, but she has an old shoulder injury and will require exploratory surgery to determine how to fix it. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Zena just wants to curl up in your lap, but she has an old shoulder injury and will require exploratory surgery to determine how to fix it. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Zena is a husky-shepherd mix who has an overgrowth on her bone that may have been caused by a previous injury.&nbsp;Faulkender said Zena is very submissive and may have been mistreated in her earlier life.The vet would like to perform an exploratory surgery to determine how to fix Zena's injury."She's a big doll,"&nbsp;Faulkender said. "She is one of these big dogs who just wants to be in your lap. She always rolls over and shows you her belly. She's kind of a sensitive little girl ... very sweet, very talkative."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768337702745.jpeg" alt="Hugo's foster mom describes him as a big, goofy, goober. He has low thyroid and struggles with ear and skin issues. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Hugo's foster mom describes him as a big, goofy, goober. He has low thyroid and struggles with ear and skin issues. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Faulkender is personally fostering Hugo, likely an American bully mix."He's my foster boy. He is a big, goofy, goober," she said. "He's very clumsy."He has low thyroid and will need to continue to take thyroid medication for the rest of his life. He needed an ear flush to clear yeast from his ears and medicated baths to address skin issues.Faulkender described Hugo as a manatee. He is subdued and easy-going.He was pulled from the Garden City Humane Society because he wasn't getting any views for adoption, she said.Once these pets have been cleared medically, they will all be up for adoption.The sooner the pets can be treated and adopted, the better,&nbsp;Faulkender said. Prolonged illness or a stay in the shelter can affect the animal's mental health. Mental health issues can also further affect the animal's physical health, she said.If you wish to financially support their care or the shelter in general, you can donate in the following ways:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768326322555.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you wish to mail a check, you can send those donations to Humane Society of the High Plains, P.O. Box 311, Hays, KS 67601.Cash or checks can also be dropped off in person at the shelter at 2050 E. Highway 40, Hays.You can learn more about the Humane Society and see pets up for adoption on their <a href="https://hshponline.org/">website</a> or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HSHPHays">Facebook</a>.

Hays humane society pets in need of donations for vet bills

SHERMAN COUNTY —First responders in northwest Kansas are preparing for the possibility of fires on Friday.&nbsp;

On their social media page, Sherman County 911 Communication asked the community to be prepared to respond.

"A significant wind event is expected across northwest Kansas and the surrounding region today through Friday. Strong northwest winds will develop, with sustained speeds of 30–40 mph and potentially stronger gusts."

 The strongest winds are expected between NOON and 2:00 PM (Mountain Time). If you have travel plans, please plan around this window if possible.

 EXTREME FIRE SAFETY REMINDER:• NO OPEN FLAMES — no burning trash, brush, or fire pits. We are under a burn ban anyway, in case you didn't know. • Extinguish cigarettes completely — do NOT toss them on the ground or out vehicle windows.• Even a small spark could cause a fast-moving grass fire under these conditions.

 BLOWING DUST &amp; HEALTH CONCERNS:• Blowing dust is likely, which may reduce visibility and impact air quality.• Those with asthma, COPD, or other breathing difficulties should plan ahead, limit outdoor exposure during peak winds, and have medications readily available.

 Travel Impacts:• Strong crosswinds may make driving hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles.• Be alert for sudden drops in visibility due to dust.

 COMMUNITY SUPPORT REQUEST:• If you have water tankers, fill those suckers up!• We may be calling on you to assist the fire department if you’re willing and able during this wind event. Your help could make a critical difference.

 Preparation Tips:• Secure loose outdoor items (trash cans, patio furniture, decorations).• Stay weather-aware and monitor local alerts.Please take this event seriously and help keep our community safe. Share this post so others can prepare.

SHERMAN COUNTY —First responders in northwest Kansas are preparing for the possibility of fires on Friday.&nbsp;On their social media page, Sherman County 911 Communication asked the community to be prepared to respond."A significant wind event is expected across northwest Kansas and the surrounding region today through Friday. Strong northwest winds will develop, with sustained speeds of 30–40 mph and potentially stronger gusts." <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Very strong winds gusting in excess of 60 mph and low humidity is forecast to lead to significant to extreme fire weather risks for Friday. Be aware of a cold front this evening with the potential for a period of strong to damaging winds as well. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/newx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#newx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cowx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cowx</a> <a href="https://t.co/vF1YfDsUnp">pic.twitter.com/vF1YfDsUnp</a>&mdash; NWS Goodland (@NWSGoodland) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSGoodland/status/2011954940529258678?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> The strongest winds are expected between NOON and 2:00 PM (Mountain Time). If you have travel plans, please plan around this window if possible. EXTREME FIRE SAFETY REMINDER:• NO OPEN FLAMES — no burning trash, brush, or fire pits. We are under a burn ban anyway, in case you didn't know. • Extinguish cigarettes completely — do NOT toss them on the ground or out vehicle windows.• Even a small spark could cause a fast-moving grass fire under these conditions. BLOWING DUST &amp; HEALTH CONCERNS:• Blowing dust is likely, which may reduce visibility and impact air quality.• Those with asthma, COPD, or other breathing difficulties should plan ahead, limit outdoor exposure during peak winds, and have medications readily available. Travel Impacts:• Strong crosswinds may make driving hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles.• Be alert for sudden drops in visibility due to dust. COMMUNITY SUPPORT REQUEST:• If you have water tankers, fill those suckers up!• We may be calling on you to assist the fire department if you’re willing and able during this wind event. Your help could make a critical difference. Preparation Tips:• Secure loose outdoor items (trash cans, patio furniture, decorations).• Stay weather-aware and monitor local alerts.Please take this event seriously and help keep our community safe. Share this post so others can prepare.

First responders in NW Kan. preparing for threat of possible fires

By JONATHAN ZWEYGADT Hays Post Sports

ELLIS – The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs and the Monarchs boys made
the short trip west to take on the Ellis Railroad in a Mid-Continent League matchup on Thursday.

The TMP Lady Monarchs (6-4, 3-1 MCL) shrugged off a slow
start and used a 28-3 run that covered parts of the second and third quarter on
their way to the 55-20 victory.

The game started out slow, with four lead changes and a pair
of ties over the first three and a half minutes, before the Monarchs took the
girl for good.

Leading 7-6, The Monarchs' Hannah Rose sparked a 28-2 run
covering the final moments of the second quarter and the beginning of the third
quarter, helping TMP build a 35-8 lead.

The third and fourth were more of the same for the Monarchs,
and with the running clock, they went on to pick up the 55-20 victory.

For the second game in-a-row, Brynne Schoepf led the
Monarchs in scoring off the bench with 11 points.

The TMP boys outscored Ellis 13-3 in the second quarter as
they locked in their third straight win 60-44.

The first quarter featured five lead changes and two ties. 

TMP (6-4, 4-0 MCL) took the lead for good on a Grant Nehls
offensive rebound and put-back that helped TMP outscore Ellis 11-5 to close out
the first quarter.

Ellis closed the deficit to five, at 15-10, to open the
second quarter, but the TMP outscored Ellis 13-3 in the second quarter as TMP
took a 28-12 lead into halftime.

In the third quarter, Ellis was able to cut TMP’s lead to 11
midway through the frame before the Monarchs took a 48-30 lead into the fourth
quarter, thanks to a Jacob Seib buzzer-beater to end the quarter.

Ellis outscored TMP in the fourth quarter, 14-12 but the
Monarchs still pickup up the win, 60-44.

Jacob Seib poured in a season-high 15 points for TMP. Grant
Nehls added 11 points and eight rebounds. Carson Liles connected on four threes
and finished with 12 points.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGADT Hays Post SportsELLIS – The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs and the Monarchs boys made
the short trip west to take on the Ellis Railroad in a Mid-Continent League matchup on Thursday.GIRLS: TMP 55 Ellis 20The TMP Lady Monarchs (6-4, 3-1 MCL) shrugged off a slow
start and used a 28-3 run that covered parts of the second and third quarter on
their way to the 55-20 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2248414658&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/wbkb-tmp-ellis-highlight" title="WBKB TMP @ Ellis Highlight" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">WBKB TMP @ Ellis Highlight</a></div></div>The game started out slow, with four lead changes and a pair
of ties over the first three and a half minutes, before the Monarchs took the
girl for good.Leading 7-6, The Monarchs' Hannah Rose sparked a 28-2 run
covering the final moments of the second quarter and the beginning of the third
quarter, helping TMP build a 35-8 lead.The third and fourth were more of the same for the Monarchs,
and with the running clock, they went on to pick up the 55-20 victory.For the second game in-a-row, Brynne Schoepf led the
Monarchs in scoring off the bench with 11 points.BOYS: &nbsp;TMP 60, Ellis 44The TMP boys outscored Ellis 13-3 in the second quarter as
they locked in their third straight win 60-44.<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%253A2248414319&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-814667509/1-15-26-bbkb-tmp-ellis-coach-interview" title="1-15-26 BBKB TMP @ Ellis Coach Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">1-15-26 BBKB TMP @ Ellis Coach Interview</a></div></div>The first quarter featured five lead changes and two ties. TMP (6-4, 4-0 MCL) took the lead for good on a Grant Nehls
offensive rebound and put-back that helped TMP outscore Ellis 11-5 to close out
the first quarter.Ellis closed the deficit to five, at 15-10, to open the
second quarter, but the TMP outscored Ellis 13-3 in the second quarter as TMP
took a 28-12 lead into halftime.In the third quarter, Ellis was able to cut TMP’s lead to 11
midway through the frame before the Monarchs took a 48-30 lead into the fourth
quarter, thanks to a Jacob Seib buzzer-beater to end the quarter.Ellis outscored TMP in the fourth quarter, 14-12 but the
Monarchs still pickup up the win, 60-44.<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%253A2247118010&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/tmp-mbkb-vs-hoxie-highlights" title="TMP MBKB vs Hoxie Highlights 01-13-2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB vs Hoxie Highlights 01-13-2026</a></div></div>Jacob Seib poured in a season-high 15 points for TMP. Grant
Nehls added 11 points and eight rebounds. Carson Liles connected on four threes
and finished with 12 points.

TMP sweeps rival Ellis

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Court records show Rachel M. Perkins, the former director of the Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club, has been charged with one count of theft by deception involving an alleged loss of between $1,500 and $25,000.

According to Reno County booking records, Perkins was booked into the Reno County Detention Center on Jan. 2. She made her first appearance in Reno County District Court on Jan. 9. As of now, no additional court date has been announced.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768498994656.png" alt="Perkins photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Perkins photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Court records show Rachel M. Perkins, the former director of the Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club, has been charged with one count of theft by deception involving an alleged loss of between $1,500 and $25,000.According to Reno County booking records, Perkins was booked into the Reno County Detention Center on Jan. 2. She made her first appearance in Reno County District Court on Jan. 9. As of now, no additional court date has been announced.Charging documents allege Perkins stole approximately $10,000 from the wrestling club. Further details surrounding the allegations were not immediately available in court filings.She met the requirement for bond and is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.