WASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;– a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry – welcomed&nbsp;Amy France,&nbsp;chair of the National Sorghum Producers, from Scott City, Kansas, to testify before the committee during a hearing titled “Perspectives From the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy.”

“Amy France is a native of Leoti, Kansas – population, 1,475,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Amy lives in a very rural part of Kansas. She didn't grow up on a farm, but she found a love for this industry called agriculture after meeting her husband, Clint. Together, they operate the France&nbsp;Family&nbsp;Farms near Scott City, growing sorghum, corn and wheat and raising cattle with their children and grandchildren.”

“Her family&nbsp;has been a priority for Amy, and she has been instilling Kansas values in her children and an understanding of what it means to be good stewards of their land,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“They share the produce that they grow on their farm with their community, and Amy has stated how she is focused on being a&nbsp;‘better farmer, not just a bigger farmer.’”“With this market uncertainty, high production costs, the drought we've had in our state, Amy's consistent advocacy for disaster relief and crop loss assistance has made her a key voice for a fight for a better agricultural economy,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I thank you, Amy, for fighting for our nation's sorghum farmers.”

WASHINGTON –&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;– a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry – welcomed&nbsp;Amy France,&nbsp;chair of the National Sorghum Producers, from Scott City, Kansas, to testify before the committee during a hearing titled “Perspectives From the Field: Farmer and Rancher Views on the Agricultural Economy.”<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aY0_-xoRyus?si=Or8LkLgikn15YmPZ&amp;start=2" 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><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GNdNBoMCnJc?si=ROaIb4h8wOgqeVzK" 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>“Amy France is a native of Leoti, Kansas – population, 1,475,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Amy lives in a very rural part of Kansas. She didn't grow up on a farm, but she found a love for this industry called agriculture after meeting her husband, Clint. Together, they operate the France&nbsp;Family&nbsp;Farms near Scott City, growing sorghum, corn and wheat and raising cattle with their children and grandchildren.”“Her family&nbsp;has been a priority for Amy, and she has been instilling Kansas values in her children and an understanding of what it means to be good stewards of their land,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“They share the produce that they grow on their farm with their community, and Amy has stated how she is focused on being a&nbsp;‘better farmer, not just a bigger farmer.’”“With this market uncertainty, high production costs, the drought we've had in our state, Amy's consistent advocacy for disaster relief and crop loss assistance has made her a key voice for a fight for a better agricultural economy,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I thank you, Amy, for fighting for our nation's sorghum farmers.”

🎥Kan. woman tells Senate committee the state of the ag economy

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced Thursday her seventh attempt to expand Medicaid, which has continuously faced staunch opposition from Republican leadership.

The Healthcare Access for Working Kansans, or HAWK, Act, would expand the option of Medicaid coverage to roughly 150,000 Kansans. Kelly has proposed expansion every year she has been in office touting its benefits for rural hospitals, health care workers and the state economy.

“In fact, by waiting to expand Medicaid, we have wasted over $280 million and left $7.6 billion on the table in Washington, D.C.,” Kelly said. “I encourage the Legislature to advance Medicaid expansion this session so we can bring Kansas taxpayer dollars back home to support our health care system.”

During the 2024 legislative session, Republican leadership allowed hearings on a Medicaid expansion bill for the first time in four years after pressure from Kelly and advocates.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/10/28/survey-reveals-potential-tapering-of-kansas-gap-between-gop-democratic-presidential-candidates/">In October</a>, an annual statewide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-finalv3-corrections-10.28.24-execsum-final-bullet-and-10.31.24-appendix-c-crosstabs-table-17-title.pdf" target="_blank">survey from Fort Hays State University</a>&nbsp;found that more than 70% of respondents support expansion.

Rep. Barbara Ballard, D-Lawrence, and Sen. Pat Pettey, D-Kansas City, Kansas, introduced the bills in the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Ways and Means Committee.&nbsp;

The governor claims Medicaid expansion would create 23,000 new jobs and add $1.2 billion in funding to the Kansas economy while reducing health care costs and safeguarding struggling rural hospitals. About 62 rural hospitals in Kansas are&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/downloads/Rural_Hospitals_at_Risk_of_Closing.pdf" target="_blank">at risk of closing</a>.

Kansas is one of nine states in the U.S. that have declined to expand Medicaid after the option to do so became available in 2010 under the Affordable Care Act. Expansion extends eligibility to people who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Without expansion, an estimated 39,000 adults in Kansas are caught in a coverage&nbsp;<a href="https://files.kff.org/attachment/fact-sheet-medicaid-state-KS" target="_blank">gap</a>, making too much to be eligible for Medicaid but too little to enroll in private health insurance.&nbsp;

“Studies show 63% of our state’s rural hospitals are at risk of closing,” said David Jordan, president and CEO of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, a Hutchinson-based nonprofit focused on rural health care.

“A sustainable health system is crucial to the future of rural Kansas communities, who rely on their local hospitals to receive timely and necessary care,” Jordan said.

Medicaid, in covering those who wouldn’t otherwise have health insurance, is the backbone of that system, Jordan said.&nbsp;

“Our hospitals already face high levels of uncompensated care, and they rely on Medicaid reimbursements to help keep their doors open — especially in our rural communities,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736987706731.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during the State of the State address last month" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during the State of the State address last month</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced Thursday her seventh attempt to expand Medicaid, which has continuously faced staunch opposition from Republican leadership.The Healthcare Access for Working Kansans, or HAWK, Act, would expand the option of Medicaid coverage to roughly 150,000 Kansans. Kelly has proposed expansion every year she has been in office touting its benefits for rural hospitals, health care workers and the state economy.“In fact, by waiting to expand Medicaid, we have wasted over $280 million and left $7.6 billion on the table in Washington, D.C.,” Kelly said. “I encourage the Legislature to advance Medicaid expansion this session so we can bring Kansas taxpayer dollars back home to support our health care system.”During the 2024 legislative session, Republican leadership allowed hearings on a Medicaid expansion bill for the first time in four years after pressure from Kelly and advocates.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/10/28/survey-reveals-potential-tapering-of-kansas-gap-between-gop-democratic-presidential-candidates/">In October</a>, an annual statewide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2024-kansas-speaks-report-finalv3-corrections-10.28.24-execsum-final-bullet-and-10.31.24-appendix-c-crosstabs-table-17-title.pdf" target="_blank">survey from Fort Hays State University</a>&nbsp;found that more than 70% of respondents support expansion.Rep. Barbara Ballard, D-Lawrence, and Sen. Pat Pettey, D-Kansas City, Kansas, introduced the bills in the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Ways and Means Committee.&nbsp;The governor claims Medicaid expansion would create 23,000 new jobs and add $1.2 billion in funding to the Kansas economy while reducing health care costs and safeguarding struggling rural hospitals. About 62 rural hospitals in Kansas are&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/downloads/Rural_Hospitals_at_Risk_of_Closing.pdf" target="_blank">at risk of closing</a>.Kansas is one of nine states in the U.S. that have declined to expand Medicaid after the option to do so became available in 2010 under the Affordable Care Act. Expansion extends eligibility to people who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Without expansion, an estimated 39,000 adults in Kansas are caught in a coverage&nbsp;<a href="https://files.kff.org/attachment/fact-sheet-medicaid-state-KS" target="_blank">gap</a>, making too much to be eligible for Medicaid but too little to enroll in private health insurance.&nbsp;“Studies show 63% of our state’s rural hospitals are at risk of closing,” said David Jordan, president and CEO of the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund, a Hutchinson-based nonprofit focused on rural health care.“A sustainable health system is crucial to the future of rural Kansas communities, who rely on their local hospitals to receive timely and necessary care,” Jordan said.Medicaid, in covering those who wouldn’t otherwise have health insurance, is the backbone of that system, Jordan said.&nbsp;“Our hospitals already face high levels of uncompensated care, and they rely on Medicaid reimbursements to help keep their doors open — especially in our rural communities,” he said.

Kansas governor takes another swing at joining 41 states that have expanded Medicaid

By OLGA R. RODRIGUEZ, TERRY CHEA and MAKIYA SEMINERA Associated Press

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — President Donald Trump's crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in programs receiving federal money has thrown into doubt the future of research Kendra Dahmer has been doing on intestinal parasites in India and Benin.

Dahmer, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, has a grant from the National Institutes of Health, the single largest public funder of biomedical research in the world.

The grant is supposed to cover her research through the summer of 2026, but now she wonders if that will be possible. She received diversity-based funding as the first college graduate in her family and a woman in science and, more broadly, she is uncertain how Trump's anti-DEI executive order could affect support for her areas of study.

"There's also this aspect of research that funds specific studies in specific populations that are now being deemed DEI," Dahmer said. "So, like HIV research in Africa may be deemed DEI, malaria research, which also happens in low and middle income countries, may be considered DEI. And these are really important diseases that kill hundreds of thousands of people every year."

Two days after Trump signed the executive order on DEI on Jan. 21 researchers became even more alarmed when the White House called for a funding freeze to conduct an ideological review of all federal grants and loans. After days of chaos and legal wrangling, two judges intervened and the administration rescinded the freeze. The National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation, which fund a large chunk of research in the country, this week began releasing grants.

But that hasn't eased the fears of scientists and researchers whose work is funded by federal grants. The NSF said it is still conducting a review of "projects, programs and activities to be compliant with the existing executive orders." It's not yet clear what may happen to new and existing NIH grants either.

On Friday night, the NIH announced it was cutting payments toward overhead costs for research institutions that receive its grants, a policy that could leave universities with major budget gaps. Currently, some universities receive 50% or more of the amount of a grant to put toward support staff and other needs, but that would be capped at 15%.

Universities, which received almost $60 billion for research in the 2023 fiscal year, have been mostly quiet, explaining in statements to their staff and students they are still trying to clarify the implications of the executive order on DEI. Meantime, they are navigating the order's impact on their own institutional policies supporting underrepresented students.

The University of California said in a statement it is "evaluating recent executive orders issued by President Trump and the subsequent agency guidance to understand their potential impact on our communities."

Even though there is no clarity on the new policies yet, some projects already have been put on hold amid uncertainty over the future of research touching on issues related to diversity, said Todd Wolfson, president of the American Association of University Professors.

Some of the studies already being halted include research on artificial intelligence and how racism can be coded into systems, he said. Other projects Wolfson has heard about getting stopped include research on health equity and studies on the urban literacy rate as it relates to class in places with large concentrations of Black people.

"I think the people who are making these decisions are very clear that they want to create a society that's based on deep-set inequities that are hard baked and don't transform whether that's around race, whether that's around class, whether that's around gender," he said.

The Education Department did not respond to an email message seeking comment.

Threats to funding for research related to DEI could eliminate a lifeline for historically Black colleges and universities, which are already significantly underfunded compared to predominantly white institutions.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, the largest HBCU in the country, has been on a yearslong mission to become one of the first to reach R1 status — a distinction from the Carnegie Foundation that denotes a university as having high research activity, but the president's intervention on federal funding could slow that down, said Joseph Graves, a biology professor. As it is, biology department students have to conduct research in hats and gloves during the winter because of a lack of heat in the old building, he said.

New scrutiny on federal research grants could also hurt students at HBCUs who have federally funded fellowships for research, Graves said. Those scholarships, which could be at risk, allow minority students to pursue opportunities they might not have been able to afford.

The Trump administration's perception of diversity, equity and inclusion could make HBCUs a target because of its high population of minority students, Graves said.

"They will look at our excellence in doing work that is changing the demography of science, and they will attack it as DEI," Graves said. "Whatever we do, we're doing DEI whether they like it or not."

Rodriguez reported from San Francisco and Seminera from Raleigh, North Carolina. Associated Press writers Cheyanne Mumphrey in Phoenix and Adithi Ramakrishnan in New York contributed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630165063493.jpeg" alt="File image Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>File image Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By OLGA R. RODRIGUEZ, TERRY CHEA and MAKIYA SEMINERA Associated PressBERKELEY, Calif. (AP) — President Donald Trump's crackdown on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in programs receiving federal money has thrown into doubt the future of research Kendra Dahmer has been doing on intestinal parasites in India and Benin.Dahmer, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, has a grant from the National Institutes of Health, the single largest public funder of biomedical research in the world.The grant is supposed to cover her research through the summer of 2026, but now she wonders if that will be possible. She received diversity-based funding as the first college graduate in her family and a woman in science and, more broadly, she is uncertain how Trump's anti-DEI executive order could affect support for her areas of study."There's also this aspect of research that funds specific studies in specific populations that are now being deemed DEI," Dahmer said. "So, like HIV research in Africa may be deemed DEI, malaria research, which also happens in low and middle income countries, may be considered DEI. And these are really important diseases that kill hundreds of thousands of people every year."Two days after Trump signed the executive order on DEI on Jan. 21 researchers became even more alarmed when the White House called for a funding freeze to conduct an ideological review of all federal grants and loans. After days of chaos and legal wrangling, two judges intervened and the administration rescinded the freeze. The National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation, which fund a large chunk of research in the country, this week began releasing grants.But that hasn't eased the fears of scientists and researchers whose work is funded by federal grants. The NSF said it is still conducting a review of "projects, programs and activities to be compliant with the existing executive orders." It's not yet clear what may happen to new and existing NIH grants either.On Friday night, the NIH announced it was cutting payments toward overhead costs for research institutions that receive its grants, a policy that could leave universities with major budget gaps. Currently, some universities receive 50% or more of the amount of a grant to put toward support staff and other needs, but that would be capped at 15%.Universities, which received almost $60 billion for research in the 2023 fiscal year, have been mostly quiet, explaining in statements to their staff and students they are still trying to clarify the implications of the executive order on DEI. Meantime, they are navigating the order's impact on their own institutional policies supporting underrepresented students.The University of California said in a statement it is "evaluating recent executive orders issued by President Trump and the subsequent agency guidance to understand their potential impact on our communities."Even though there is no clarity on the new policies yet, some projects already have been put on hold amid uncertainty over the future of research touching on issues related to diversity, said Todd Wolfson, president of the American Association of University Professors.Some of the studies already being halted include research on artificial intelligence and how racism can be coded into systems, he said. Other projects Wolfson has heard about getting stopped include research on health equity and studies on the urban literacy rate as it relates to class in places with large concentrations of Black people."I think the people who are making these decisions are very clear that they want to create a society that's based on deep-set inequities that are hard baked and don't transform whether that's around race, whether that's around class, whether that's around gender," he said.The Education Department did not respond to an email message seeking comment.Threats to funding for research related to DEI could eliminate a lifeline for historically Black colleges and universities, which are already significantly underfunded compared to predominantly white institutions.North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, the largest HBCU in the country, has been on a yearslong mission to become one of the first to reach R1 status — a distinction from the Carnegie Foundation that denotes a university as having high research activity, but the president's intervention on federal funding could slow that down, said Joseph Graves, a biology professor. As it is, biology department students have to conduct research in hats and gloves during the winter because of a lack of heat in the old building, he said.New scrutiny on federal research grants could also hurt students at HBCUs who have federally funded fellowships for research, Graves said. Those scholarships, which could be at risk, allow minority students to pursue opportunities they might not have been able to afford.The Trump administration's perception of diversity, equity and inclusion could make HBCUs a target because of its high population of minority students, Graves said."They will look at our excellence in doing work that is changing the demography of science, and they will attack it as DEI," Graves said. "Whatever we do, we're doing DEI whether they like it or not."___Rodriguez reported from San Francisco and Seminera from Raleigh, North Carolina. Associated Press writers Cheyanne Mumphrey in Phoenix and Adithi Ramakrishnan in New York contributed.

University research in turmoil after Trump admin. declares DEI policies illegal

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

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — As a student,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;played high school football. As a business baron, he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/events-united-states-presidential-election-dbbed546a30048798c3377c66cd50f4f">owned a team</a>&nbsp;in an upstart rival to the NFL and then sued the established league. As president, he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7e3fcc1d5c2446098652affae9e6322a">denigrated pros</a>&nbsp;who took a knee during the national anthem as part of a social justice movement.

On Sunday, he was adding to that complicated history with the sport when he becomes the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-attends-super-bowl-ae879e4f0a905b103e9059245f2887e2">first president in office to attend a Super Bowl.</a>

After flying from Florida to New Orleans, the Republican president was expected to meet participants in the honorary coin toss, including relatives of victims of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-orleans-car-bourbon-street-63a1b43d615af365cb8ba6f5f0583eca">New Year’s Day terrorist attack</a>&nbsp;in the city's historic French Quarter, as well as members of the police department and emergency personnel.

Trump’s appearance at the Caesars Superdome to see the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles follows the NFL’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-end-zone-message-2cd0272f27fd1836ddd016eb2ff297f2">remove the “End Racism” slogans</a>&nbsp;that have been stenciled on the end zones since 2021.

Trump recently ordered the cancelation of programs that encourage&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-dei-executive-order-diversity-inclusion-f67ea86032986084dd71c5aa0c6b8d1d">diversity, equity and inclusion</a>&nbsp;across the federal government and some critics see the league's decision as a response to the Republican president's action. But NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-goodell-dei-bfd90306b728a28fdef43fabfb882e75">diversity policies</a>&nbsp;are not in conflict with the Trump administration’s efforts to end the federal government's DEI programs.

Trump, who attended the Super Bowl in 1992, thinks the Chiefs will win, with Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes the difference-maker.

“I guess you have to say that when a quarterback wins as much as he’s won, I have to go with Kansas City,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News Channel's Brett Baier that aired on the pregame show. Trump said Mahomes “really knows how to win. He’s a great, great quarterback.”

The president played football as a student at the New York Military Academy. As a New York businessman in the early 1980s, he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/events-united-states-presidential-election-dbbed546a30048798c3377c66cd50f4f">owned the New Jersey Generals</a>&nbsp;of the United States Football League. Trump had sued to force a merger of the USFL and the NFL. The USFL eventually folded.

Friction existed between Trump and the NFL during his first term as president.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7e3fcc1d5c2446098652affae9e6322a">Trump took issue with players kneeling</a>&nbsp;during the national anthem to protest social or racial injustice. That movement began in 2016 with then-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick taking a knee during “The Star-Spangled Banner” during an exhibition game in Denver.

Trump, through social media and other public comments, insisted that players stand for the national anthem and he called on team owners to fire any player who took a knee.

“Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, you’d say, ’Get that son of a bitch off the field right now. Out! He’s fired,” Trump said to loud applause at a rally in Hunstville, Alabama, in 2017.

Trump is expected to watch the game from a box in the company of House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., among others. Trump won Missouri and Pennsylvania — the states represented in the game — on his way to a second term in November.

His interest in sports extends beyond football. Trump is an avid golfer who owns multiple golf courses and has hosted tournaments. He sponsored boxing matches at his former casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ufc-match-new-york-8d5bfbccd32c1115cf2f6b54b8c58a0e">attended a UFC match</a>&nbsp;at Madison Square Garden weeks after winning a second term.

Trump played golf with Tiger Woods on Sunday morning in Florida, where the president spent the weekend, the White House said.

Some NFL team owners have donated to his campaigns and Trump maintains friendships with Herschel Walker and Doug Flutie, who played for the Generals.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-football-georgia-senate-elections-herschel-walker-068e1edc1dbf75638a75c35bdc54eb33">Trump endorsed Walker's unsuccessful bid</a>&nbsp;as the Republican candidate for a U.S. Senate seat from Georgia in 2022, and has tapped him to become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/herschel-walker-donald-trump-bahamas-92937a9d0b5409b0c91a22082e80d6a2">ambassador to the Bahamas</a>.

Trump signed an order last week that is intended to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-transgender-athletes-3606411fc12efffec95a893351624e1b">block transgender women and girls from competing in women's sports</a>&nbsp;by targeting federal funding for schools that fail to comply.

In a statement before the game, Trump said the coaches, players and staff for the Chiefs and Eagles “represent the hopes and dreams of our Nation’s young athletes as we restore safety and fairness in sports and equal opportunities among their teams.”

Alvin Tillery, a politics professor and diversity expert at Northwestern University, said in an interview that the NFL's decision to remove “End Racism” slogans was “shameful” given that the league “makes tens of billions of dollars largely on the bodies of Black men.”

He said the NFL should explain who it was aiming to please. The NFL said it was stenciling “Choose Love” in one of the end zones for the Super Bowl to encourage the country after a series of tragedies so far this year, including a New Year's Day truck attack in the host city of New Orleans that killed 14 people and injured dozens more.

Tillery wasn't convinced. “I think they removed it because Trump's coming," he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739157939180.png" alt="President Trump during Super Bowl National Anthem image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during Super Bowl National Anthem image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22DARLENE%20SUPERVILLE%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By DARLENE SUPERVILLE Associated Press</a>WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — As a student,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;played high school football. As a business baron, he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/events-united-states-presidential-election-dbbed546a30048798c3377c66cd50f4f">owned a team</a>&nbsp;in an upstart rival to the NFL and then sued the established league. As president, he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7e3fcc1d5c2446098652affae9e6322a">denigrated pros</a>&nbsp;who took a knee during the national anthem as part of a social justice movement.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America&#39;s Favorite President at America&#39;s Biggest Game 🇺🇸🏈<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SBLIX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SBLIX</a> <a href="https://t.co/0IZNoQL84o">pic.twitter.com/0IZNoQL84o</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1888949637576315013?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IvankaTrump</a> arrive at Super Bowl LIX! 🏈🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/j9YoqbC9ca">pic.twitter.com/j9YoqbC9ca</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1888739261903708608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IvankaTrump</a> arrive at Super Bowl LIX! 🏈🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/j9YoqbC9ca">pic.twitter.com/j9YoqbC9ca</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1888739261903708608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> boards Air Force One en route to Super Bowl LIX! 🏈🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/2WnRx5Yqi0">pic.twitter.com/2WnRx5Yqi0</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1888681271561253116?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On Sunday, he was adding to that complicated history with the sport when he becomes the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-attends-super-bowl-ae879e4f0a905b103e9059245f2887e2">first president in office to attend a Super Bowl.</a>After flying from Florida to New Orleans, the Republican president was expected to meet participants in the honorary coin toss, including relatives of victims of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-orleans-car-bourbon-street-63a1b43d615af365cb8ba6f5f0583eca">New Year’s Day terrorist attack</a>&nbsp;in the city's historic French Quarter, as well as members of the police department and emergency personnel.Trump’s appearance at the Caesars Superdome to see the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles follows the NFL’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-end-zone-message-2cd0272f27fd1836ddd016eb2ff297f2">remove the “End Racism” slogans</a>&nbsp;that have been stenciled on the end zones since 2021.Trump recently ordered the cancelation of programs that encourage&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-dei-executive-order-diversity-inclusion-f67ea86032986084dd71c5aa0c6b8d1d">diversity, equity and inclusion</a>&nbsp;across the federal government and some critics see the league's decision as a response to the Republican president's action. But NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/super-bowl-goodell-dei-bfd90306b728a28fdef43fabfb882e75">diversity policies</a>&nbsp;are not in conflict with the Trump administration’s efforts to end the federal government's DEI programs.Trump, who attended the Super Bowl in 1992, thinks the Chiefs will win, with Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes the difference-maker.“I guess you have to say that when a quarterback wins as much as he’s won, I have to go with Kansas City,” Trump said in an interview with Fox News Channel's Brett Baier that aired on the pregame show. Trump said Mahomes “really knows how to win. He’s a great, great quarterback.”The president played football as a student at the New York Military Academy. As a New York businessman in the early 1980s, he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/events-united-states-presidential-election-dbbed546a30048798c3377c66cd50f4f">owned the New Jersey Generals</a>&nbsp;of the United States Football League. Trump had sued to force a merger of the USFL and the NFL. The USFL eventually folded.Friction existed between Trump and the NFL during his first term as president.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7e3fcc1d5c2446098652affae9e6322a">Trump took issue with players kneeling</a>&nbsp;during the national anthem to protest social or racial injustice. That movement began in 2016 with then-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick taking a knee during “The Star-Spangled Banner” during an exhibition game in Denver.Trump, through social media and other public comments, insisted that players stand for the national anthem and he called on team owners to fire any player who took a knee.“Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, you’d say, ’Get that son of a bitch off the field right now. Out! He’s fired,” Trump said to loud applause at a rally in Hunstville, Alabama, in 2017.Trump is expected to watch the game from a box in the company of House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., among others. Trump won Missouri and Pennsylvania — the states represented in the game — on his way to a second term in November.His interest in sports extends beyond football. Trump is an avid golfer who owns multiple golf courses and has hosted tournaments. He sponsored boxing matches at his former casinos in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ufc-match-new-york-8d5bfbccd32c1115cf2f6b54b8c58a0e">attended a UFC match</a>&nbsp;at Madison Square Garden weeks after winning a second term.Trump played golf with Tiger Woods on Sunday morning in Florida, where the president spent the weekend, the White House said.Some NFL team owners have donated to his campaigns and Trump maintains friendships with Herschel Walker and Doug Flutie, who played for the Generals.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-college-football-georgia-senate-elections-herschel-walker-068e1edc1dbf75638a75c35bdc54eb33">Trump endorsed Walker's unsuccessful bid</a>&nbsp;as the Republican candidate for a U.S. Senate seat from Georgia in 2022, and has tapped him to become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/herschel-walker-donald-trump-bahamas-92937a9d0b5409b0c91a22082e80d6a2">ambassador to the Bahamas</a>.Trump signed an order last week that is intended to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-transgender-athletes-3606411fc12efffec95a893351624e1b">block transgender women and girls from competing in women's sports</a>&nbsp;by targeting federal funding for schools that fail to comply.In a statement before the game, Trump said the coaches, players and staff for the Chiefs and Eagles “represent the hopes and dreams of our Nation’s young athletes as we restore safety and fairness in sports and equal opportunities among their teams.”Alvin Tillery, a politics professor and diversity expert at Northwestern University, said in an interview that the NFL's decision to remove “End Racism” slogans was “shameful” given that the league “makes tens of billions of dollars largely on the bodies of Black men.”He said the NFL should explain who it was aiming to please. The NFL said it was stenciling “Choose Love” in one of the end zones for the Super Bowl to encourage the country after a series of tragedies so far this year, including a New Year's Day truck attack in the host city of New Orleans that killed 14 people and injured dozens more.Tillery wasn't convinced. “I think they removed it because Trump's coming," he said.

Presidential first: Trump at the Super Bowl, latest chapter in a complicated legacy with football

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating a deadly shooting in Topeka have identified the victim as&nbsp; Olivia Miller, 51, of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

Just after 7:30 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the 2700 Block of SW Burnett Road.

First responders found three individuals who had life-threatening injuries. Olivia MIller was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel, and the other two were taken to a local area hospital.

As a result of the investigation, police arrested 29-year-old Devin Miller of Topeka on requested charges of first degree murder and aggravated battery.

This is the city’s 1st homicide investigation of 2025.&nbsp; Police have not released details on the relationship between the suspect and the victim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738979967925.png" alt="Miller photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Miller photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating a deadly shooting in Topeka have identified the victim as&nbsp; Olivia Miller, 51, of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.Just after 7:30 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the 2700 Block of SW Burnett Road.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738943432820.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders found three individuals who had life-threatening injuries. Olivia MIller was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel, and the other two were taken to a local area hospital.As a result of the investigation, police arrested 29-year-old Devin Miller of Topeka on requested charges of first degree murder and aggravated battery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739074147131.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>This is the city’s 1st homicide investigation of 2025.&nbsp; Police have not released details on the relationship between the suspect and the victim.

Police ID Kansas woman who died in shooting 

WASHINGTON (AP) —Crews continuing to search for debris from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ronald-reagan-national-airport-aircraft-crash-9d79051a9e535bd855df5a4e5553b2e9">deadly collision</a>&nbsp;of a passenger jet and Army helicopter near Washington used a plane outfitted with lasers to scan the bottom of the Potomac River early Saturday, the National Transportation Safety Board said.

Large pieces of the jetliner and helicopter along with the remains of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fatal-washington-flight-passengers-ca062f03b729c130058d4f74393dfa31">all 67 victims</a>&nbsp;already were recovered earlier this week and crews now will spend the coming days looking for smaller debris before finishing the work in about a week.

A plane operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and equipped with laser scanning technology flew at low altitudes over the crash site. The lasers are used to penetrate the river's surface and map the riverbed.

The NTSB said information collected will be part of its ongoing investigation into the Jan. 29 collision between the Army helicopter and an American Airlines flight over Washington, D.C. There were no survivors.

President Donald Trump on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-plane-crash-air-traffic-control-ab195790634af66534a45cdec2d80aa8">blamed the collision</a>&nbsp;on what he called an “obsolete” computer system used by U.S. air traffic controllers and vowed to replace it.

NTSB officials told members of Congress that the helicopter's advanced surveillance technology, which transmits aircraft location and other data to air traffic control and other aircraft, was turned off, Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz said Thursday.

Investigators are also looking into the altitude of the plane and helicopter, including whether the chopper was above its 200-foot (61-meter) flight ceiling. Investigators need to be able to examine the wreckage of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/black-hawk-crash-night-faa-helicopter-286319ac01bee91e4992c95e7946063e">the Black Hawk</a>&nbsp;to get more precise information.

The crash was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-crashes-history-washington-ee55776ea0c5f9e322fc77ea1ea452d1">deadliest in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet slammed into a New York City neighborhood just after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board and five on the ground.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738545032561.png" alt="Photo U.S. Coast Guard" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Coast Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Crews continuing to search for debris from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ronald-reagan-national-airport-aircraft-crash-9d79051a9e535bd855df5a4e5553b2e9">deadly collision</a>&nbsp;of a passenger jet and Army helicopter near Washington used a plane outfitted with lasers to scan the bottom of the Potomac River early Saturday, the National Transportation Safety Board said.Large pieces of the jetliner and helicopter along with the remains of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fatal-washington-flight-passengers-ca062f03b729c130058d4f74393dfa31">all 67 victims</a>&nbsp;already were recovered earlier this week and crews now will spend the coming days looking for smaller debris before finishing the work in about a week.A plane operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and equipped with laser scanning technology flew at low altitudes over the crash site. The lasers are used to penetrate the river's surface and map the riverbed.The NTSB said information collected will be part of its ongoing investigation into the Jan. 29 collision between the Army helicopter and an American Airlines flight over Washington, D.C. There were no survivors.President Donald Trump on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-plane-crash-air-traffic-control-ab195790634af66534a45cdec2d80aa8">blamed the collision</a>&nbsp;on what he called an “obsolete” computer system used by U.S. air traffic controllers and vowed to replace it.NTSB officials told members of Congress that the helicopter's advanced surveillance technology, which transmits aircraft location and other data to air traffic control and other aircraft, was turned off, Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz said Thursday.Investigators are also looking into the altitude of the plane and helicopter, including whether the chopper was above its 200-foot (61-meter) flight ceiling. Investigators need to be able to examine the wreckage of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/black-hawk-crash-night-faa-helicopter-286319ac01bee91e4992c95e7946063e">the Black Hawk</a>&nbsp;to get more precise information.The crash was the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aircraft-crashes-history-washington-ee55776ea0c5f9e322fc77ea1ea452d1">deadliest in the U.S.</a>&nbsp;since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet slammed into a New York City neighborhood just after takeoff, killing all 260 people on board and five on the ground.

Lasers aid river search for debris from deadly plane and helicopter collision

JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man who called 911 to turn himself in after a deadly shooting is going to prison.

On Feb. 3 Judge T. Kelly Ryan sentenced 24-year-old&nbsp;Dmariea Valentino Avance to 155 months in prison for 2nd degree murdery, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.

Last month, Avance pleaded no contest to second degree murder in the death of&nbsp;21-year-old Markese D. Gleghorn of Lenexa outside a fast-food restaurant, according to the District Attorney's office.

Just before 7p.m. Jan. 16, 2024, police responded to the parking lot of a fast food restaurant in the 13330 W. 87th Street Parkway in Lenexa on the report of an armed disturbance.

According to a 911 caller, one person was shot at the location. When officers arrived, they located a man later identified as&nbsp;21-year-old Markese D. Gleghorn of Lenexa inside a vehicle who had been shot. Officers attempted life-saving measures however Geighorn was pronounced deceased at the scene.

A few minutes after this initial call, police received another call from an individual later identified as Avance who said he was involved in the disturbance. Officers responded to an apartment in the 12700 block of W. 88th Circle where they took Avance into custody without incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705355537122.png" alt="Avance-photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Avance-photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man who called 911 to turn himself in after a deadly shooting is going to prison.On Feb. 3 Judge T. Kelly Ryan sentenced 24-year-old&nbsp;Dmariea Valentino Avance to 155 months in prison for 2nd degree murdery, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.Last month, Avance pleaded no contest to second degree murder in the death of&nbsp;21-year-old Markese D. Gleghorn of Lenexa outside a fast-food restaurant, according to the District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705317609481.png" alt="-Police on the scene of the deadly shooting investigation -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>-Police on the scene of the deadly shooting investigation -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 7p.m. Jan. 16, 2024, police responded to the parking lot of a fast food restaurant in the 13330 W. 87th Street Parkway in Lenexa on the report of an armed disturbance.According to a 911 caller, one person was shot at the location. When officers arrived, they located a man later identified as&nbsp;21-year-old Markese D. Gleghorn of Lenexa inside a vehicle who had been shot. Officers attempted life-saving measures however Geighorn was pronounced deceased at the scene.A few minutes after this initial call, police received another call from an individual later identified as Avance who said he was involved in the disturbance. Officers responded to an apartment in the 12700 block of W. 88th Circle where they took Avance into custody without incident.

Kan. man who called 911 after deadly shooting is going to prison

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.&nbsp;

Just after 5:30p.m. Jan. 3, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Kia Sorento on 150th Road, just west of U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

During the traffic stop, probable cause was obtained to search the vehicle.&nbsp; Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located on the passenger’s person and during a search of the vehicle, additional methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located.

The driver, Sidnee Lynn Holcomb, 59, of Horton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, use of&nbsp;communication device during felony drug offense.

The passenger, John Rodney Remmers, 64, of Blue Springs, Nebraska, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, use of communication device during felony drug offense.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738842000727.png" alt="Remmers photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Remmers photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.&nbsp;Just after 5:30p.m. Jan. 3, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2004 Kia Sorento on 150th Road, just west of U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738841970028.png" alt="Holcomb-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Holcomb-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>During the traffic stop, probable cause was obtained to search the vehicle.&nbsp; Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located on the passenger’s person and during a search of the vehicle, additional methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located.The driver, Sidnee Lynn Holcomb, 59, of Horton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, use of&nbsp;communication device during felony drug offense.The passenger, John Rodney Remmers, 64, of Blue Springs, Nebraska, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, use of communication device during felony drug offense.

Kansas couple caught transporting methamphetamine

KANSAS CITY — A Judge sentenced a Kansas City man to life in prison, plus 15 years this week for a fatal shooting that led to an hours-long standoff, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.&nbsp;

In November 2024, a jury convicted 70-year-old Juan Maiden of 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2498/Maiden-REDACTED-PC_FINAL">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to the 500th block of Booth Avenue on a shooting where they were informed the victim was inside the residence and shot by the defendant. Officers made entry and located the victim who had a gunshot wound to the head. Hours later, they located the defendant after a standoff.&nbsp;

A witness told police the defendant shot the victim unprovoked and then shot her two more times as she laid on the ground.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722171295792.png" alt="Maiden photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Maiden photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — A Judge sentenced a Kansas City man to life in prison, plus 15 years this week for a fatal shooting that led to an hours-long standoff, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.&nbsp;In November 2024, a jury convicted 70-year-old Juan Maiden of 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2498/Maiden-REDACTED-PC_FINAL">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to the 500th block of Booth Avenue on a shooting where they were informed the victim was inside the residence and shot by the defendant. Officers made entry and located the victim who had a gunshot wound to the head. Hours later, they located the defendant after a standoff.&nbsp;A witness told police the defendant shot the victim unprovoked and then shot her two more times as she laid on the ground.&nbsp;

Prison: 70-year-old killed Kansas City woman in her home

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/GovernorShapiro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovernorShapiro</a>, your <a href="https://twitter.com/Eagles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eagles</a> are no match for our <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Chiefs</a>. I&#39;ll bet you <a href="https://twitter.com/CreekstoneFarms?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CreekstoneFarms</a>&#39; Premium Black Angus steaks that <a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMahomes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PatrickMahomes</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/tkelce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tkelce</a> will make history on Sunday by securing a Super Bowl 3-peat. As <a href="https://twitter.com/taylorswift13?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@taylorswift13</a> would say, are you ready for it? <a href="https://t.co/c2VlFnoK0T">https://t.co/c2VlFnoK0T</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1887925874919358848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Kan. governor makes friendly Super Bowl wager with PA. governor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. senators from both political parties wrote to the acting Social Security commissioner on Thursday, expressing concern it might take the agency more than a year to implement an expansion to benefits that Congress approved last year.

“The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO),” the group of 28 senators wrote. “We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO.”

The senators then asked Commissioner Michelle King to provide Congress with “monthly updates and briefings” on how the agency was implementing the new law.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collins.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/252025_letter_to_ssa_re_hr82wepgpoimplementation.pdf" target="_blank">one-page letter</a>&nbsp;was signed by Wisconsin Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, New Jersey Democratic Sen. Cory Booker, West Virginia Republican Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin, Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman, Nebraska Republican Sen. Deb Fischer, New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrich, Colorado Democratic Sen. John Hickenlooper, Virginia Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, Maine independent Sen. Angus King, Minnesota Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar, New Mexico Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Oregon Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley, Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran, Alaska Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Georgia Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff, California Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla, Rhode Island Democratic Sen. Jack Reed, Nebraska Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts, Nevada Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen, Alaska Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan, Virginia Democratic Sen. Mark Warner, Vermont Democratic Sen. Peter Welch and Rhode Island Democratic Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse.

The Social Security Administration has a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/social-security-fairness-act.html" target="_blank">webpage</a>&nbsp;with answers to several questions regarding the new law and how the agency is trying to implement the change in benefits.

The webpage says the agency “cannot yet provide an estimated timeframe for when we will adjust a person’s past or future benefits, but we will continue to provide updates on this webpage. We thank the public for its patience.”

The webpage also explains how people who have never filed for Social Security benefits due to the Windfall Elimination Provision or the Government Pension Offset can apply now that there is a new law.

A spokesperson for the Social Security Administration said the agency “received the letter and will respond directly to the requestors.” States Newsroom had asked for details about why the law’s implementation might take a year.&nbsp;

Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-benefits-boosted-millions-bill-headed-bidens-desk-1" target="_blank">voted on a broadly bipartisan basis</a>&nbsp;late last year to approve the bill making the change and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/biden-signs-bill-expanding-social-security-benefits-retired-teachers-public-employees" target="_blank">then-President Joe Biden signed it into law</a>&nbsp;in January.

The pension offset affects about 746,000 Americans while the windfall provision affects 2.1 million, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IN/IN12451" target="_blank">a report&nbsp;</a>from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service, which includes maps showing which states have higher concentrations of people affected by the two former provisions.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716140421905.png" alt="File photo Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran" />
 <figcaption>File photo Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. senators from both political parties wrote to the acting Social Security commissioner on Thursday, expressing concern it might take the agency more than a year to implement an expansion to benefits that Congress approved last year.“The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO),” the group of 28 senators wrote. “We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO.”The senators then asked Commissioner Michelle King to provide Congress with “monthly updates and briefings” on how the agency was implementing the new law.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.collins.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/252025_letter_to_ssa_re_hr82wepgpoimplementation.pdf" target="_blank">one-page letter</a>&nbsp;was signed by Wisconsin Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin, Connecticut Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, New Jersey Democratic Sen. Cory Booker, West Virginia Republican Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins, Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin, Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman, Nebraska Republican Sen. Deb Fischer, New York Democratic Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrich, Colorado Democratic Sen. John Hickenlooper, Virginia Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, Maine independent Sen. Angus King, Minnesota Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar, New Mexico Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Luján, Oregon Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley, Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran, Alaska Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Georgia Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff, California Democratic Sen. Alex Padilla, Rhode Island Democratic Sen. Jack Reed, Nebraska Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts, Nevada Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen, Alaska Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan, Virginia Democratic Sen. Mark Warner, Vermont Democratic Sen. Peter Welch and Rhode Island Democratic Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse.<h2>No estimated timeframe</h2>The Social Security Administration has a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/social-security-fairness-act.html" target="_blank">webpage</a>&nbsp;with answers to several questions regarding the new law and how the agency is trying to implement the change in benefits.The webpage says the agency “cannot yet provide an estimated timeframe for when we will adjust a person’s past or future benefits, but we will continue to provide updates on this webpage. We thank the public for its patience.”The webpage also explains how people who have never filed for Social Security benefits due to the Windfall Elimination Provision or the Government Pension Offset can apply now that there is a new law.A spokesperson for the Social Security Administration said the agency “received the letter and will respond directly to the requestors.” States Newsroom had asked for details about why the law’s implementation might take a year.&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/social-security-benefits-boosted-millions-bill-headed-bidens-desk-1" target="_blank">voted on a broadly bipartisan basis</a>&nbsp;late last year to approve the bill making the change and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/biden-signs-bill-expanding-social-security-benefits-retired-teachers-public-employees" target="_blank">then-President Joe Biden signed it into law</a>&nbsp;in January.The pension offset affects about 746,000 Americans while the windfall provision affects 2.1 million, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IN/IN12451" target="_blank">a report&nbsp;</a>from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service, which includes maps showing which states have higher concentrations of people affected by the two former provisions.&nbsp;

Lawmakers press Social Security on lag in paying expanded benefits to public employees

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– The Blue Angels have named McConnell Air Force Base’s 2024 Frontiers in Flight airshow as the&nbsp;2024 Blue Angels Military Airshow of the Year.

The airshow was August 24-25, 2024, and brought in a crowd of more than 65,000 people on its first day. The event featured aerial demonstrations, static aircraft displays and interactive exhibits, allowing attendees to see military aviation capabilities up close. The Blue Angels headlined the performances, demonstrating precision flying and teamwork. A variety of military and civilian aircraft were also on display, showcasing both historical and modern aviation technology.

The award recognizes excellence in planning, execution, and community engagement, key factors that set McConnell’s airshow apart. The Blue Angels evaluate each of the airshows they performed at in 2024, considering elements such as crowd management, logistical coordination, airfield operations, and overall event impact. McConnell’s ability to coordinate a large-scale event while maintaining strict safety protocols and providing an engaging experience contributed to its selection for this recognition.

The air show was also cut short on Aug. 25, when a wet microburst, a sudden, intense downdraft of sustained 50+ mph winds and rain, forced the cancellation of the second day’s events.

These weather events are common in the Great Plains during the summer, typically forming overnight and weakening after sunrise. However, in this case, an upper-level disturbance allowed the storm to persist longer than expected, creating unsafe conditions for public attendance and flying demonstrations.

“Planning for the air show began about two years prior. The number of variables to cover is incredibly wide, ranging from weather and medical emergencies to making sure there is enough food and parking spaces for everyone,” said Maj. Ryan Sheive, 350th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker pilot and air show director.

Hosting a large-scale event like an airshow requires extensive coordination across multiple agencies both on base and throughout the local communities, requiring months of preparation, and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges.

“We had a great team this year, but during the air show there were challenges that popped up every five minutes,” said Capt. Matthew Robbins, 350th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 pilot and air show deputy director. “There were more people in attendance this year than was expected -- lines at security check, medical teams helping attendees with the heat and when the weather hit, that’s when we really stepped up as a team.”

Planning is also underway for the next Frontiers in Flight Airshow, slated for the fall of 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738946297135.png" alt="The U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform during the practice show for the Frontiers in Flight Air Show Aug. 24, 2024, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The show will feature 13 performers including the Blue Angels, the U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, Tora Tora Tora and local pilots. Team McConnell invited the public on base to show appreciation to the local community for their support to the base and its Airmen, as well as showcase Department of Defense and Air Force capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Tryphena Mayhguh)" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform during the practice show for the Frontiers in Flight Air Show Aug. 24, 2024, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The show will feature 13 performers including the Blue Angels, the U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team, Tora Tora Tora and local pilots. Team McConnell invited the public on base to show appreciation to the local community for their support to the base and its Airmen, as well as showcase Department of Defense and Air Force capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Tryphena Mayhguh)</figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– The Blue Angels have named McConnell Air Force Base’s 2024 Frontiers in Flight airshow as the&nbsp;2024 Blue Angels Military Airshow of the Year.The airshow was August 24-25, 2024, and brought in a crowd of more than 65,000 people on its first day. The event featured aerial demonstrations, static aircraft displays and interactive exhibits, allowing attendees to see military aviation capabilities up close. The Blue Angels headlined the performances, demonstrating precision flying and teamwork. A variety of military and civilian aircraft were also on display, showcasing both historical and modern aviation technology.The award recognizes excellence in planning, execution, and community engagement, key factors that set McConnell’s airshow apart. The Blue Angels evaluate each of the airshows they performed at in 2024, considering elements such as crowd management, logistical coordination, airfield operations, and overall event impact. McConnell’s ability to coordinate a large-scale event while maintaining strict safety protocols and providing an engaging experience contributed to its selection for this recognition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724616069059.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The air show was also cut short on Aug. 25, when a wet microburst, a sudden, intense downdraft of sustained 50+ mph winds and rain, forced the cancellation of the second day’s events.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738946491701.png" alt="Photo Kansas Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>These weather events are common in the Great Plains during the summer, typically forming overnight and weakening after sunrise. However, in this case, an upper-level disturbance allowed the storm to persist longer than expected, creating unsafe conditions for public attendance and flying demonstrations.“Planning for the air show began about two years prior. The number of variables to cover is incredibly wide, ranging from weather and medical emergencies to making sure there is enough food and parking spaces for everyone,” said Maj. Ryan Sheive, 350th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker pilot and air show director.Hosting a large-scale event like an airshow requires extensive coordination across multiple agencies both on base and throughout the local communities, requiring months of preparation, and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges.“We had a great team this year, but during the air show there were challenges that popped up every five minutes,” said Capt. Matthew Robbins, 350th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 pilot and air show deputy director. “There were more people in attendance this year than was expected -- lines at security check, medical teams helping attendees with the heat and when the weather hit, that’s when we really stepped up as a team.”Planning is also underway for the next Frontiers in Flight Airshow, slated for the fall of 2026.

Blue Angels name McConnell as 2024 Airshow of the Year  

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal shooting in Johnson County have identified the victim as&nbsp;28-year-old Eduardo E. Portillo of Independence, Missouri.

Just before 10:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to an armed disturbance in the 15900 block of West 127th Street in Olathe, according to Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

First responders found Portillo suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

Police have identified and contacted all individual involved. Police have not reported an arrest.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal shooting in Johnson County have identified the victim as&nbsp;28-year-old Eduardo E. Portillo of Independence, Missouri.Just before 10:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to an armed disturbance in the 15900 block of West 127th Street in Olathe, according to Police Sergeant John Moncayo.First responders found Portillo suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.Police have identified and contacted all individual involved. Police have not reported an arrest.

Police: Missouri man identified as victim in Kansas shooting

NEW ORLEANS — In a joint press conference with the National Football League, the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, led by Director Ivan J. Arvelo, announced the seizure of $39.5 million in counterfeit sports merchandise through Operation Team Player, according to a media release from Homeland Security.

This year-long, collaborative initiative between Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and major sports leagues aims to prevent counterfeit sports-related merchandise and apparel from reaching fans ahead of high-profile sporting events.

In total, more than 214,507 counterfeit items were seized, including jerseys, t-shirts, hats, jewelry, and various other memorabilia. Since its launch in 2013, Operation Team Player has seized more than $455 million in counterfeit sports merchandise and apparel, making it the largest anti-counterfeiting initiative within the federal government.

“With the rise of e-commerce, it has become incredibly easy for criminals to create fake websites, online marketplaces, and social media ads offering deceptive deals with the sole intention of scamming sports fans,” said Arvelo. “That’s why our partnership with sports leagues, such as the NFL, is critical in our efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of counterfeit merchandise and help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.”

“As we prepare for Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, it is important to remember that the success of the game depends on so many crucial partners and vital stakeholders. The NFL is extremely grateful for its long partnership with the IPR Center, HSI, CBP and New Orleans law enforcement, and all that they do to protect NFL fans,” said Dolores DiBella, NFL Senior Vice President for Legal Affairs. “The continued success of Operation Team Player would not be possible without their tireless efforts and ongoing commitment to protecting NFL fans from counterfeit crimes both on the ground and online.”

“At CBP, we’re not just fans of the game — we’re also here to protect the fans, businesses, and communities that make this event so special. One of the ways we do this is by tackling an issue many consumers don’t realize has an enormous impact: counterfeit goods. Fake jerseys and hats might seem like a good deal, but they can come with serious risks,” said AnneMarie Highsmith, Executive Associate Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Trade.

“Leading up to and during the game, members of the New Orleans Police Department will be teamed up with agents from the city’s Department of Revenue, the Department of Homeland Security and NFL members, to identify and address illegal vendors and the sale of counterfeit merchandise,” said Lt. Kenny Temple, New Orleans Police Department.

“Excitement is growing ahead of the big game in New Orleans on Sunday. But if you’re looking to be in that number — and buy tickets to the Super Bowl LIX, you’ve got to do your homework first. Sadly, many con artists will be working overtime this week to prey on innocent people looking to attend the game,” said Attorney General Liz Murrill.

While many mistakenly believe that counterfeiting only affects large corporations, the reality is that purchasing fake merchandise has real consequences such as identify theft or financial loss. In response, the IPR Center launched the 'True Fans Keep It Real' campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of counterfeit goods and provide sports fans with helpful tips to shop smart and spot counterfeit merchandise both online and in person.

“Our goal is to arm consumers with the knowledge to avoid purchasing counterfeit items in the first place,” Arvelo added.

To help fans stay safe from counterfeit products, the IPR Center and the NFL recommend the following tips when making purchases:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739026217872.png" alt="Photo Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Photo Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW ORLEANS — In a joint press conference with the National Football League, the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center, led by Director Ivan J. Arvelo, announced the seizure of $39.5 million in counterfeit sports merchandise through Operation Team Player, according to a media release from Homeland Security.This year-long, collaborative initiative between Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and major sports leagues aims to prevent counterfeit sports-related merchandise and apparel from reaching fans ahead of high-profile sporting events.In total, more than 214,507 counterfeit items were seized, including jerseys, t-shirts, hats, jewelry, and various other memorabilia. Since its launch in 2013, Operation Team Player has seized more than $455 million in counterfeit sports merchandise and apparel, making it the largest anti-counterfeiting initiative within the federal government.“With the rise of e-commerce, it has become incredibly easy for criminals to create fake websites, online marketplaces, and social media ads offering deceptive deals with the sole intention of scamming sports fans,” said Arvelo. “That’s why our partnership with sports leagues, such as the NFL, is critical in our efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of counterfeit merchandise and help consumers make informed purchasing decisions.”“As we prepare for Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, it is important to remember that the success of the game depends on so many crucial partners and vital stakeholders. The NFL is extremely grateful for its long partnership with the IPR Center, HSI, CBP and New Orleans law enforcement, and all that they do to protect NFL fans,” said Dolores DiBella, NFL Senior Vice President for Legal Affairs. “The continued success of Operation Team Player would not be possible without their tireless efforts and ongoing commitment to protecting NFL fans from counterfeit crimes both on the ground and online.”“At CBP, we’re not just fans of the game — we’re also here to protect the fans, businesses, and communities that make this event so special. One of the ways we do this is by tackling an issue many consumers don’t realize has an enormous impact: counterfeit goods. Fake jerseys and hats might seem like a good deal, but they can come with serious risks,” said AnneMarie Highsmith, Executive Associate Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Trade.“Leading up to and during the game, members of the New Orleans Police Department will be teamed up with agents from the city’s Department of Revenue, the Department of Homeland Security and NFL members, to identify and address illegal vendors and the sale of counterfeit merchandise,” said Lt. Kenny Temple, New Orleans Police Department.“Excitement is growing ahead of the big game in New Orleans on Sunday. But if you’re looking to be in that number — and buy tickets to the Super Bowl LIX, you’ve got to do your homework first. Sadly, many con artists will be working overtime this week to prey on innocent people looking to attend the game,” said Attorney General Liz Murrill.While many mistakenly believe that counterfeiting only affects large corporations, the reality is that purchasing fake merchandise has real consequences such as identify theft or financial loss. In response, the IPR Center launched the 'True Fans Keep It Real' campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of counterfeit goods and provide sports fans with helpful tips to shop smart and spot counterfeit merchandise both online and in person.“Our goal is to arm consumers with the knowledge to avoid purchasing counterfeit items in the first place,” Arvelo added.To help fans stay safe from counterfeit products, the IPR Center and the NFL recommend the following tips when making purchases:<ul>
 <li>Stick to trusted retail locations.</li><li>Be cautious when shopping online. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Criminals often use legitimate product photos while selling fraudulent items.</li><li>Use caution before purchasing expensive items from unfamiliar online sellers. Shop from authorized dealers with a reputation for quality merchandise to ensure a safe transaction and responsible customer service.</li><li>Look for signs of poor quality, such as sloppy stitching, missing security labels, or irregular markings on apparel.</li><li>Check your online bank statements regularly. Keep a record of purchases and confirmation pages and compare them to your bank statements. If discrepancies arise, report them immediately.</li><li>Purchase event tickets only from trusted sources, such as the NFL Ticket Exchange by Ticketmaster, On Location, or other reputable ticket retailers. This year, Super Bowl LIX will be entirely digital, and no paper tickets will be accepted. Screenshots or PDFs of tickets will not be valid for entry.</li>
 </ul>

$39.5M in Counterfeit Sports Merchandise Seized Ahead of Super Bowl 

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Hamas-led militants released three gaunt, frail-looking Israeli civilian men they held for the past 16 months on Saturday, and Israel was freeing dozens of Palestinian prisoners as part of a fragile agreement that has paused&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">the war in the Gaza Strip</a>.

Before a crowd of hundreds, armed Hamas fighters led Eli Sharabi, 52, Ohad Ben Ami, 56, and Or Levy, 34, onto a stage, where they were forced to make a public statement before being handed over to the Red Cross.

The three were among about 250 people abducted during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, that sparked the war. They appeared to be in much poorer physical condition than any of the 18 other hostages released so far during the ceasefire that began Jan. 19.

The hostages' emaciated condition and the stage-managed ceremony — a departure from previous hostage releases where the captives were not made to speak — sparked outrage in Israel.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said “we will not accept the shocking scenes” that played out. The statement did not lay out punitive measures.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said the “difficult scenes” were reason to extend the truce with Hamas and bring home the dozens of remaining hostages.

In an apparent response to concerns over the released hostages’ health, Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, claimed it had “made efforts to preserve their lives despite the (Israeli) bombardment.”

Many Palestinians released from Israeli jails during the ceasefire have also appeared gaunt and pale, and have alleged abuses and mistreatment in Israeli custody.

The current phase of the truce, which runs until early March, does not appear to have been affected by U.S. President Donald Trump's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-trump-gaza-egypt-saudi-2b1af11c18bf7d5d9aedef68aaba4c00">stunning proposal</a>&nbsp;to transfer the Palestinian population out of Gaza, welcomed by Israel but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-egypt-trump-displacement-bc1c43f80655190824a5de4eb1d310cc">vehemently rejected by the Palestinians</a>&nbsp;and most of the international community.

But it could complicate talks over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-ceasefire-draft-terms-hostages-3df21b67620fdc8f62aa1d1e96487880">the second and more difficult phase</a>, when Hamas is to release dozens more hostages in return for a lasting ceasefire. Hamas may be reluctant to free more captives — and lose its main bargaining chip — if it believes the U.S. and Israel are serious about depopulating the territory, which rights groups say would violate international law.

This was the fifth swap of hostages for prisoners during the ceasefire. Before Saturday, 18 hostages and more than 550 Palestinian prisoners had been freed.

The gaunt appearance of the three hostages “evoke the horrifying pictures from the liberation of the camps in 1945, the darkest chapter of our history,” said the Hostages Families Forum, a group representing relatives of most of the captives. "We have to get all of the hostages out of hell. There can be no more delays.”

The first phase of the ceasefire calls for the release of 33 hostages and nearly 2,000 prisoners, the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza and an increase in humanitarian aid to the devastated territory. Last week, wounded Palestinians were allowed to leave Gaza for Egypt for the first time since May.

Sharabi and Ben Ami were both captured from Kibbutz Beeri,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-displaced-hamas-dead-sea-beeri-hotel-94d57fc34dd18a73e38eea8437d15801">one of the hardest-hit farming communities</a>, during the Hamas-led attack. Levy was abducted from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-music-festival-6a55aae2375944f10ecc4c52d05f2ffe">the Nova music festival</a>, where he was taking shelter in a safe room when the militants arrived.

Sharabi’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hostages-gaza-hamas-war-98c2dbb2634eefbe52de11c1e06528af">wife and two teenage daughters</a>&nbsp;were killed in the attack. His brother Yossi was also abducted and died in captivity. Levy’s wife was killed during the attack and his now 3-year-old son has been cared for by relatives.

It is unclear whether either man knows about what happened to their families.

Ben Ami, a father of three, was kidnapped with his wife, Raz, who was released during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.

Relatives of the hostages cheered, clapped and cried as they watched live footage of their loved ones being released.

Levy's brother, Michael, said his brother’s young son, Almog, was already told his father was on his way.

“Mogi, we found daddy,” Michael Levy said he told the boy, using his nickname, in an interview with Israeli Channel 12. “We haven’t seen happiness like that in him for a long time."

The 183 Palestinian prisoners being released by Israel on Saturday include 18 people serving life sentences for deadly attacks on Israelis, 54 serving long-term sentences and 111 Palestinians from Gaza who were detained after the Oct. 7 attack but not tried for any crime. All are men are aged between 20 and 61.

Virtually every Palestinian has a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-boys-prison-west-bank-israel-war-d0f73d0a1581749894ffc0e078b4b160">friend, relative or acquaintance</a>&nbsp;who has been imprisoned.

More than 100 hostages were released during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023. More than 70 are still in Gaza, and Israel has said 34 of those are believed to be dead. Israel says Hamas has confirmed eight of the 33 to be released during the first phase of the truce are dead.

It is not clear whether Israel and Hamas have begun negotiating a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-israel-palestinians-ceasefire-war-cb56a3da64e144492decfffc40c589cf">second phase</a>&nbsp;of the ceasefire, which calls for releasing the remaining hostages and extending the truce indefinitely. The war could resume in early March if no agreement is reached.

Israel says it is still committed to destroying Hamas, even after the militant group&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-ceasefire-hostages-militants-rule-93da074c251d0fcaa395503749e2849e">reasserted its rule over Gaza</a>&nbsp;within hours of the ceasefire. A key far-right partner in Netanyahu’s coalition is calling for the war to resume after the ceasefire’s first phase.

Hamas says it won’t release remaining hostages without an end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

In the Oct. 7 attack, some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed. More than 47,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s retaliatory air and ground war, over half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were militants.

The Israeli military says it killed over 17,000 fighters, without providing evidence. It blames civilian deaths on Hamas because its fighters operate in residential neighborhoods.

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Hamas-led militants released three gaunt, frail-looking Israeli civilian men they held for the past 16 months on Saturday, and Israel was freeing dozens of Palestinian prisoners as part of a fragile agreement that has paused&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">the war in the Gaza Strip</a>.Before a crowd of hundreds, armed Hamas fighters led Eli Sharabi, 52, Ohad Ben Ami, 56, and Or Levy, 34, onto a stage, where they were forced to make a public statement before being handed over to the Red Cross.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739021341139.png" alt=""The horrifying images of Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharbi, and Or Levy reveal the devastating toll of 491 days in Hamas captivity. These are men who have endured hell itself. This is a crime against humanity." Image courtesy Hostage and Missing Families Forum" />
 <figcaption>"The horrifying images of Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharbi, and Or Levy reveal the devastating toll of 491 days in Hamas captivity. These are men who have endured hell itself. This is a crime against humanity." Image courtesy Hostage and Missing Families Forum</figcaption>
 </figure>The three were among about 250 people abducted during the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, that sparked the war. They appeared to be in much poorer physical condition than any of the 18 other hostages released so far during the ceasefire that began Jan. 19.<h2>Hostages' condition sparks concern</h2>The hostages' emaciated condition and the stage-managed ceremony — a departure from previous hostage releases where the captives were not made to speak — sparked outrage in Israel.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said “we will not accept the shocking scenes” that played out. The statement did not lay out punitive measures.Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said the “difficult scenes” were reason to extend the truce with Hamas and bring home the dozens of remaining hostages.In an apparent response to concerns over the released hostages’ health, Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, claimed it had “made efforts to preserve their lives despite the (Israeli) bombardment.”Many Palestinians released from Israeli jails during the ceasefire have also appeared gaunt and pale, and have alleged abuses and mistreatment in Israeli custody.The current phase of the truce, which runs until early March, does not appear to have been affected by U.S. President Donald Trump's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-trump-gaza-egypt-saudi-2b1af11c18bf7d5d9aedef68aaba4c00">stunning proposal</a>&nbsp;to transfer the Palestinian population out of Gaza, welcomed by Israel but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-egypt-trump-displacement-bc1c43f80655190824a5de4eb1d310cc">vehemently rejected by the Palestinians</a>&nbsp;and most of the international community.But it could complicate talks over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-ceasefire-draft-terms-hostages-3df21b67620fdc8f62aa1d1e96487880">the second and more difficult phase</a>, when Hamas is to release dozens more hostages in return for a lasting ceasefire. Hamas may be reluctant to free more captives — and lose its main bargaining chip — if it believes the U.S. and Israel are serious about depopulating the territory, which rights groups say would violate international law.This was the fifth swap of hostages for prisoners during the ceasefire. Before Saturday, 18 hostages and more than 550 Palestinian prisoners had been freed.The gaunt appearance of the three hostages “evoke the horrifying pictures from the liberation of the camps in 1945, the darkest chapter of our history,” said the Hostages Families Forum, a group representing relatives of most of the captives. "We have to get all of the hostages out of hell. There can be no more delays.”The first phase of the ceasefire calls for the release of 33 hostages and nearly 2,000 prisoners, the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza and an increase in humanitarian aid to the devastated territory. Last week, wounded Palestinians were allowed to leave Gaza for Egypt for the first time since May.<h2>Who was released on Saturday?</h2>Sharabi and Ben Ami were both captured from Kibbutz Beeri,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-displaced-hamas-dead-sea-beeri-hotel-94d57fc34dd18a73e38eea8437d15801">one of the hardest-hit farming communities</a>, during the Hamas-led attack. Levy was abducted from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-music-festival-6a55aae2375944f10ecc4c52d05f2ffe">the Nova music festival</a>, where he was taking shelter in a safe room when the militants arrived.Sharabi’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hostages-gaza-hamas-war-98c2dbb2634eefbe52de11c1e06528af">wife and two teenage daughters</a>&nbsp;were killed in the attack. His brother Yossi was also abducted and died in captivity. Levy’s wife was killed during the attack and his now 3-year-old son has been cared for by relatives.It is unclear whether either man knows about what happened to their families.Ben Ami, a father of three, was kidnapped with his wife, Raz, who was released during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023.Relatives of the hostages cheered, clapped and cried as they watched live footage of their loved ones being released.Levy's brother, Michael, said his brother’s young son, Almog, was already told his father was on his way.“Mogi, we found daddy,” Michael Levy said he told the boy, using his nickname, in an interview with Israeli Channel 12. “We haven’t seen happiness like that in him for a long time."The 183 Palestinian prisoners being released by Israel on Saturday include 18 people serving life sentences for deadly attacks on Israelis, 54 serving long-term sentences and 111 Palestinians from Gaza who were detained after the Oct. 7 attack but not tried for any crime. All are men are aged between 20 and 61.Virtually every Palestinian has a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/palestinian-boys-prison-west-bank-israel-war-d0f73d0a1581749894ffc0e078b4b160">friend, relative or acquaintance</a>&nbsp;who has been imprisoned.More than 100 hostages were released during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023. More than 70 are still in Gaza, and Israel has said 34 of those are believed to be dead. Israel says Hamas has confirmed eight of the 33 to be released during the first phase of the truce are dead.<h2>Ceasefire's next phase is uncertain</h2>It is not clear whether Israel and Hamas have begun negotiating a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-israel-palestinians-ceasefire-war-cb56a3da64e144492decfffc40c589cf">second phase</a>&nbsp;of the ceasefire, which calls for releasing the remaining hostages and extending the truce indefinitely. The war could resume in early March if no agreement is reached.Israel says it is still committed to destroying Hamas, even after the militant group&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-ceasefire-hostages-militants-rule-93da074c251d0fcaa395503749e2849e">reasserted its rule over Gaza</a>&nbsp;within hours of the ceasefire. A key far-right partner in Netanyahu’s coalition is calling for the war to resume after the ceasefire’s first phase.Hamas says it won’t release remaining hostages without an end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.In the Oct. 7 attack, some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed. More than 47,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s retaliatory air and ground war, over half of them women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not say how many of the dead were militants.The Israeli military says it killed over 17,000 fighters, without providing evidence. It blames civilian deaths on Hamas because its fighters operate in residential neighborhoods.

Shocking images: 3 more hostages freed by Hamas in Gaza

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating a deadly shooting in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just after 7:30 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the 2700 Block of SW Burnett Road, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

First responders found three individuals who had life-threatening injuries. One was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel, and the other two were taken to a local area hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738943432820.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating a deadly shooting in Topeka have made an arrest.Just after 7:30 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the 2700 Block of SW Burnett Road, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738979967925.png" alt="Miller -photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Miller -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders found three individuals who had life-threatening injuries. One was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel, and the other two were taken to a local area hospital.As a result of the investigation, police arrested 29-year-old Devin Miller of Topeka on requested charges of first degree murder and aggravated battery.This is the city’s 1st homicide investigation of 2025.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim who died.