<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22MATTHEW%20PERRONE%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By MATTHEW PERRONE &nbsp;AP Health Writer</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — Those ever-present TV drug ads showing patients hiking, biking or enjoying a day at the beach could soon have a different look: New rules require drugmakers to be clearer and more direct when explaining their medications' risks and side effects.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration spent more than 15 years crafting the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/175074/download">guidelines</a>, which are designed to do away with industry practices that downplay or distract viewers from risk information.

<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/175074/download">Click here to read </a>the guidelines

Many companies have already adopted the rules, which become binding Nov. 20. But while regulators were drafting them, a new trend emerged: thousands of pharma influencers pushing drugs online with little oversight. A new bill in Congress would compel the FDA to more aggressively police such promotions on social media platforms.

“Some people become very attached to social media influencers and ascribe to them credibility that, in some cases, they don’t deserve,” said Tony Cox, professor emeritus of marketing at Indiana University.

Still, TV remains the industry's primary advertising format, with over $4 billion spent in the past year, led by blockbuster drugs like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mounjaro-wegovy-ozempic-obesity-weight-loss-bd0e037cc5981513487260d40636752a">weight-loss treatment Wegovy</a>, according to ispot.tv, which tracks ads.

The new rules, which cover both TV and radio, instruct drugmakers to use simple, consumer-friendly language when describing their drugs, without medical jargon, distracting visuals or audio effects. A 2007 law directed the FDA to ensure that drug risk information appears “in a clear, conspicuous and neutral manner.”

FDA has always required that ads give a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-143d1bd257e147cdbbebfa0a97f40519">balanced picture</a>&nbsp;of both benefits and risks, a requirement that gave rise to those long, rapid-fire lists of side effects parodied on shows like “&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VByZc4Hn7pI">Saturday Night Live</a>.”

But in the early 2000s, researchers began showing how companies could manipulate images and audio to de-emphasize safety information. In one example, a Duke University professor found that ads for the allergy drug Nasonex, which featured a buzzing bee voiced by Antonio Banderas, distracted viewers from listening to side effect information, making it harder to remember.

Such overt tactics have largely disappeared from drug ads.

“In general, I would say the ads have gotten more complete and transparent,” says Ruth Day, director of the medical cognition lab at Duke University and author of the Nasonex study.

The new rules are “significant steps forward,” Day said, but certain requirements could also open the door to new ways of downplaying risks.

One requirement instructs companies to show on-screen text about side effects while the audio information plays. A 2011 FDA study found that combining text with audio increased recall and understanding.

But the agency leaves it to companies to decide whether to display a few keywords or a full transcript.

“You often cannot put all that on the screen and expect people to read and understand it,” Day said. “If you wanted to hide or decrease the likelihood of people remembering risk information, that could be the way to do it.”

Viewers tend to tune out long lists of warnings and other information. But experts who work with drug companies don’t expect those lists to disappear. While the guidelines describe how the information should be presented, companies still decide the content.

“If you’re a company and you’re worried about possible FDA enforcement or product liability and other litigation, all your incentives are to say more, not less,” said Torrey Cope, a food and drug lawyer who advises companies.

Experts also say the new rules will have little effect on the overall tone and appearance of ads.

“The most salient element of these ads are the visuals, and they are uniformly positive,” said Cox. “Even if the risk message is about, for instance, sudden heart failure, they’re still showing someone diving into a swimming pool.”

The new rules come as Donald Trump's advisers begin floating plans for the FDA and the pharmaceutical industry.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-vaccines-779495533a80ba142086a9621d75a59c">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>, an anti-vaccine activist who has advised the president-elect, wants to eliminate TV drug ads. He and other industry critics point out that the U.S. and New Zealand are the only countries where prescription drugs can be promoted on TV.

Even so, many companies are looking beyond TV and expanding into social media. They often partner with patient influencers who post about managing their conditions, new treatments or navigating the health system.

“They’re teaching people to live a good life with their disease, but then some of them are also paid to advertise and persuade,” said Erin Willis, who studies advertising and media at the University of Colorado Boulder.

Advertising executives say companies like the format because it’s cheaper than TV and consumers generally feel influencers are more trustworthy than companies.

FDA’s requirement for truthful, balanced risk and benefit information applies to drugmakers, leaving a loophole for both influencers and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hims-ro-lemonaid-subscription-health-care-6bbd960335fd8a7cc71563858e1a441a">telehealth companies</a>&nbsp;like Hims, Ro and Teledoc, who may not have a direct financial connection to makers of the drugs they’re promoting.

The issue has attracted attention from members of Congress.

“The power of social media and the deluge of misleading promotions has meant too many young people are receiving medical advice from influencers instead of their health care professional,” Sens. Dick Durbin of Illinois and Mike Braun of Indiana wrote the FDA in a February letter.

A recently introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.durbin.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Durbin-Braun_Deceptive%20Social%20Media%20Rx%20Promotion.pdf">bill from the senators</a>&nbsp;would bring influencers and telehealth companies clearly under FDA’s jurisdiction, requiring them to disclose risk and side effect information. The bill also would require drugmakers to publicly disclose payments to influencers.

“It’s asking the FDA to take a more serious stance with this kind of marketing,” said Willis. "They know it’s happening, but they could be doing more and their regulations haven’t been updated since 2014."

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731609279169.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22MATTHEW%20PERRONE%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By MATTHEW PERRONE &nbsp;AP Health Writer</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — Those ever-present TV drug ads showing patients hiking, biking or enjoying a day at the beach could soon have a different look: New rules require drugmakers to be clearer and more direct when explaining their medications' risks and side effects.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration spent more than 15 years crafting the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/175074/download">guidelines</a>, which are designed to do away with industry practices that downplay or distract viewers from risk information.<a href="https://www.fda.gov/media/175074/download">Click here to read </a>the guidelinesMany companies have already adopted the rules, which become binding Nov. 20. But while regulators were drafting them, a new trend emerged: thousands of pharma influencers pushing drugs online with little oversight. A new bill in Congress would compel the FDA to more aggressively police such promotions on social media platforms.“Some people become very attached to social media influencers and ascribe to them credibility that, in some cases, they don’t deserve,” said Tony Cox, professor emeritus of marketing at Indiana University.Still, TV remains the industry's primary advertising format, with over $4 billion spent in the past year, led by blockbuster drugs like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mounjaro-wegovy-ozempic-obesity-weight-loss-bd0e037cc5981513487260d40636752a">weight-loss treatment Wegovy</a>, according to ispot.tv, which tracks ads.<h2>Simpler language and no distractions</h2>The new rules, which cover both TV and radio, instruct drugmakers to use simple, consumer-friendly language when describing their drugs, without medical jargon, distracting visuals or audio effects. A 2007 law directed the FDA to ensure that drug risk information appears “in a clear, conspicuous and neutral manner.”FDA has always required that ads give a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-143d1bd257e147cdbbebfa0a97f40519">balanced picture</a>&nbsp;of both benefits and risks, a requirement that gave rise to those long, rapid-fire lists of side effects parodied on shows like “&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VByZc4Hn7pI">Saturday Night Live</a>.”But in the early 2000s, researchers began showing how companies could manipulate images and audio to de-emphasize safety information. In one example, a Duke University professor found that ads for the allergy drug Nasonex, which featured a buzzing bee voiced by Antonio Banderas, distracted viewers from listening to side effect information, making it harder to remember.Such overt tactics have largely disappeared from drug ads.“In general, I would say the ads have gotten more complete and transparent,” says Ruth Day, director of the medical cognition lab at Duke University and author of the Nasonex study.The new rules are “significant steps forward,” Day said, but certain requirements could also open the door to new ways of downplaying risks.<h2>Information overload?</h2>One requirement instructs companies to show on-screen text about side effects while the audio information plays. A 2011 FDA study found that combining text with audio increased recall and understanding.But the agency leaves it to companies to decide whether to display a few keywords or a full transcript.“You often cannot put all that on the screen and expect people to read and understand it,” Day said. “If you wanted to hide or decrease the likelihood of people remembering risk information, that could be the way to do it.”Viewers tend to tune out long lists of warnings and other information. But experts who work with drug companies don’t expect those lists to disappear. While the guidelines describe how the information should be presented, companies still decide the content.“If you’re a company and you’re worried about possible FDA enforcement or product liability and other litigation, all your incentives are to say more, not less,” said Torrey Cope, a food and drug lawyer who advises companies.Experts also say the new rules will have little effect on the overall tone and appearance of ads.“The most salient element of these ads are the visuals, and they are uniformly positive,” said Cox. “Even if the risk message is about, for instance, sudden heart failure, they’re still showing someone diving into a swimming pool.”<h2>Patient influencers</h2>The new rules come as Donald Trump's advisers begin floating plans for the FDA and the pharmaceutical industry.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-vaccines-779495533a80ba142086a9621d75a59c">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>, an anti-vaccine activist who has advised the president-elect, wants to eliminate TV drug ads. He and other industry critics point out that the U.S. and New Zealand are the only countries where prescription drugs can be promoted on TV.Even so, many companies are looking beyond TV and expanding into social media. They often partner with patient influencers who post about managing their conditions, new treatments or navigating the health system.“They’re teaching people to live a good life with their disease, but then some of them are also paid to advertise and persuade,” said Erin Willis, who studies advertising and media at the University of Colorado Boulder.Advertising executives say companies like the format because it’s cheaper than TV and consumers generally feel influencers are more trustworthy than companies.FDA’s requirement for truthful, balanced risk and benefit information applies to drugmakers, leaving a loophole for both influencers and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hims-ro-lemonaid-subscription-health-care-6bbd960335fd8a7cc71563858e1a441a">telehealth companies</a>&nbsp;like Hims, Ro and Teledoc, who may not have a direct financial connection to makers of the drugs they’re promoting.The issue has attracted attention from members of Congress.“The power of social media and the deluge of misleading promotions has meant too many young people are receiving medical advice from influencers instead of their health care professional,” Sens. Dick Durbin of Illinois and Mike Braun of Indiana wrote the FDA in a February letter.A recently introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.durbin.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Durbin-Braun_Deceptive%20Social%20Media%20Rx%20Promotion.pdf">bill from the senators</a>&nbsp;would bring influencers and telehealth companies clearly under FDA’s jurisdiction, requiring them to disclose risk and side effect information. The bill also would require drugmakers to publicly disclose payments to influencers.“It’s asking the FDA to take a more serious stance with this kind of marketing,” said Willis. "They know it’s happening, but they could be doing more and their regulations haven’t been updated since 2014."___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

New rules for TV drug ads: Simpler language and no distractions

Law enforcement officials are seeking information which will lead to the identification of an unknown individual known as John Doe 49, according to a media release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

&nbsp; It is believed that this individual may have critical information pertaining to the identity of a child victim in a sexual exploitation investigation.

The video depicting John Doe 49 is believed to have been produced on or before July of 2024.&nbsp;

John Doe 49 is described as a White male between 45 and 65 years old, bald, with a dark goatee. He has at least five visual tattoos: the word Dabby on the right side of his chest, 197 followed by possible additional unknown text on his left bicep, and additional tattoos on his left and right forearms and right bicep.

If you have any information concerning this case, please call the FBI's toll-free tip-line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), contact a Crimes Against Children Investigator at your<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/" target="_blank">local FBI office</a>, or the nearest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legat/" target="_blank">American Embassy or Consulate</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731603932482.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Law enforcement officials are seeking information which will lead to the identification of an unknown individual known as John Doe 49, according to a media release from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp; It is believed that this individual may have critical information pertaining to the identity of a child victim in a sexual exploitation investigation.The video depicting John Doe 49 is believed to have been produced on or before July of 2024.&nbsp;John Doe 49 is described as a White male between 45 and 65 years old, bald, with a dark goatee. He has at least five visual tattoos: the word Dabby on the right side of his chest, 197 followed by possible additional unknown text on his left bicep, and additional tattoos on his left and right forearms and right bicep.<ul>
 <li><a href="mailto:RescueMe@fbi.gov?subject=Contact%20an%20Investigator">Contact an ECAP Investigator</a></li>
 </ul><h2>Submit a Tip:</h2>If you have any information concerning this case, please call the FBI's toll-free tip-line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), contact a Crimes Against Children Investigator at your<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/" target="_blank">local FBI office</a>, or the nearest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legat/" target="_blank">American Embassy or Consulate</a>.

FBI seeks identity of 'John Doe 49' in child sexual exploitation case

WASHINGTON (AP) — After one of the most&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-campaign-house-republicans-majority-elections-ef7ef9a498e1c7a04971bf28b59c81f7">chaotic and least productive sessions</a>&nbsp;in modern history, voters made a surprising choice in elections for the U.S. House -- they overwhelmingly stuck with the status quo.

House Republicans will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republicans-house-elections-e3754a684a7b96b129841d4b207c15e9">hold onto a thin majority</a>, and while the chamber's exact partisan divide is still to be determined as votes are tallied in a handful of states, the results of 435 House races nationwide have produced hardly any change to the makeup of the chamber.

In fact, it's more like a stalemate: Republicans and Democrats have each flipped seven seats, while just eight incumbents nationwide have lost their races.

The results show just how entrenched the political dynamics have become in a legislative chamber that is meant to closely reflect the will of the people. Neither&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">Donald Trump's sweep of swing states</a>&nbsp;nor a record of two years marked by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republicans-house-leadership-chaos-states-infighting-bb5d9287214cd5aa0a1fdf03b56bebcb">infighting among GOP House members</a>&nbsp;seemed to weigh much on House election results. Instead, the contest for control of the chamber boiled down to just a couple dozen politically divided districts and fewer truly close races even as House candidates nationwide spent a combined $1.5 billion, according to Open Secrets, which tracks political spending.

House Democratic Leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hakeem-jeffries">Hakeem Jeffries</a>&nbsp;called it “bitterly disappointing” to see his party's bid to retake the House fall short by just a few seats. But he also made sure to note, “Notwithstanding the adverse political environment that happened with a Trump wave sweeping every single battleground state in America, Democrats will actually have increased the number of seats in the new Congress.”

Still, that hasn't stopped Republican leaders from taking a victory lap and talking of a mandate to implement a conservative agenda.

“On Election Day, Americans sent a clear message to reject the consequences of Democratic control,” said Rep. Richard Hudson, the chair of the GOP's House campaign committee, adding, “That's why voters delivered House Republicans a majority and sent Donald Trump to the White House in a landslide.”

Trump is on track to win the popular vote for the first time, but it will likely be a narrow victory once all ballots are counted, reflecting how politically deadlocked the country has become. In the House, the margins will also be close, particularly after Trump chose several House Republicans for roles in his administration.

“Every single vote will count,” said House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>. “Because if someone gets ill, or has a car accident or a late flight on their plane, then it affects the votes on the floor.”

Johnson's party held onto the majority largely thanks to two seats the party flipped in Pennsylvania, as well as three more that were redistricted by the GOP-controlled North Carolina General Assembly to favor their party.

Democrats, meanwhile, did best in New York — Jeffries' home state — where they flipped three seats. They also picked up two redistricted seats, in Louisiana and Alabama, that were ordered by courts to ensure fair representation for Black voters.

But as the congressional map becomes clear after the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/redistricting">redistricting cycle</a>&nbsp;following the 2020 census, some democracy advocates are concerned about the small number of House districts that are in play.

While Republicans for years won more congressional seats than expected through gerrymandered districts,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymandering-2022-elections-e576c35ee37ef7ae14337953a42541c2">Democrats have battled back by shaping districts</a>&nbsp;to their advantage and essentially evened out the playing field.

“The consequences are that the people’s House barely reflects the will of the people. Voters have very little possibility to shift the balance of power in the House even when their moods change,” said David Peters, who has written about gerrymandering and is a senior fellow at FairVote, an organization that advocates for voting reforms.

FairVote estimates that 85% of House seats are now safe for one party — the highest percentage it has tracked in two decades. Political polarization also plays a role in that trend, and Peters said it has resulted in a dynamic where House members are less likely to work across the aisle and are more worried about facing a primary opponent who criticizes them for not being partisan enough.

Several of the incumbents who lost reelection, such as Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo of Colorado or Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro of New York, were some of the most willing to work on bipartisan legislation.

But now that Republicans hold the House, Senate and White House, there is little talk of working with Democrats. Instead, they hope to use a special budget process to implement partisan legislation aimed at extending tax breaks, bolstering immigration enforcement at the southern border and dismantling federal regulations.

To do that, they will also have to overcome the infighting that has hampered them the last two years — and cracks are already showing in their unity.

In an internal vote this week, Johnson received his party's nomination to remain speaker when the new Congress starts Jan. 3. But lawmakers are still haggling over whether to keep in place rules that allowed a small group of conservatives to trigger the ouster of Johnson's predecessor,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">former Speaker Kevin McCarthy</a>.

With a razor-thin majority, almost any Republican can block legislation from moving forward, as the conservative bloc has done periodically.

“As usual, it’s going to be very difficult for Congress to get anything done,” said Rob Speel, a political science professor at Penn State Behrend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731758967267.png" alt="Results as of&nbsp; 6a.m. Saturday&nbsp; November 16-image Associated press" />
 <figcaption>Results as of&nbsp; 6a.m. Saturday&nbsp; November 16-image Associated press</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — After one of the most&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-campaign-house-republicans-majority-elections-ef7ef9a498e1c7a04971bf28b59c81f7">chaotic and least productive sessions</a>&nbsp;in modern history, voters made a surprising choice in elections for the U.S. House -- they overwhelmingly stuck with the status quo.House Republicans will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republicans-house-elections-e3754a684a7b96b129841d4b207c15e9">hold onto a thin majority</a>, and while the chamber's exact partisan divide is still to be determined as votes are tallied in a handful of states, the results of 435 House races nationwide have produced hardly any change to the makeup of the chamber.In fact, it's more like a stalemate: Republicans and Democrats have each flipped seven seats, while just eight incumbents nationwide have lost their races.The results show just how entrenched the political dynamics have become in a legislative chamber that is meant to closely reflect the will of the people. Neither&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">Donald Trump's sweep of swing states</a>&nbsp;nor a record of two years marked by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republicans-house-leadership-chaos-states-infighting-bb5d9287214cd5aa0a1fdf03b56bebcb">infighting among GOP House members</a>&nbsp;seemed to weigh much on House election results. Instead, the contest for control of the chamber boiled down to just a couple dozen politically divided districts and fewer truly close races even as House candidates nationwide spent a combined $1.5 billion, according to Open Secrets, which tracks political spending.House Democratic Leader&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hakeem-jeffries">Hakeem Jeffries</a>&nbsp;called it “bitterly disappointing” to see his party's bid to retake the House fall short by just a few seats. But he also made sure to note, “Notwithstanding the adverse political environment that happened with a Trump wave sweeping every single battleground state in America, Democrats will actually have increased the number of seats in the new Congress.”Still, that hasn't stopped Republican leaders from taking a victory lap and talking of a mandate to implement a conservative agenda.“On Election Day, Americans sent a clear message to reject the consequences of Democratic control,” said Rep. Richard Hudson, the chair of the GOP's House campaign committee, adding, “That's why voters delivered House Republicans a majority and sent Donald Trump to the White House in a landslide.”Trump is on track to win the popular vote for the first time, but it will likely be a narrow victory once all ballots are counted, reflecting how politically deadlocked the country has become. In the House, the margins will also be close, particularly after Trump chose several House Republicans for roles in his administration.“Every single vote will count,” said House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>. “Because if someone gets ill, or has a car accident or a late flight on their plane, then it affects the votes on the floor.”Johnson's party held onto the majority largely thanks to two seats the party flipped in Pennsylvania, as well as three more that were redistricted by the GOP-controlled North Carolina General Assembly to favor their party.Democrats, meanwhile, did best in New York — Jeffries' home state — where they flipped three seats. They also picked up two redistricted seats, in Louisiana and Alabama, that were ordered by courts to ensure fair representation for Black voters.But as the congressional map becomes clear after the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/redistricting">redistricting cycle</a>&nbsp;following the 2020 census, some democracy advocates are concerned about the small number of House districts that are in play.While Republicans for years won more congressional seats than expected through gerrymandered districts,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymandering-2022-elections-e576c35ee37ef7ae14337953a42541c2">Democrats have battled back by shaping districts</a>&nbsp;to their advantage and essentially evened out the playing field.“The consequences are that the people’s House barely reflects the will of the people. Voters have very little possibility to shift the balance of power in the House even when their moods change,” said David Peters, who has written about gerrymandering and is a senior fellow at FairVote, an organization that advocates for voting reforms.FairVote estimates that 85% of House seats are now safe for one party — the highest percentage it has tracked in two decades. Political polarization also plays a role in that trend, and Peters said it has resulted in a dynamic where House members are less likely to work across the aisle and are more worried about facing a primary opponent who criticizes them for not being partisan enough.Several of the incumbents who lost reelection, such as Democratic Rep. Yadira Caraveo of Colorado or Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro of New York, were some of the most willing to work on bipartisan legislation.But now that Republicans hold the House, Senate and White House, there is little talk of working with Democrats. Instead, they hope to use a special budget process to implement partisan legislation aimed at extending tax breaks, bolstering immigration enforcement at the southern border and dismantling federal regulations.To do that, they will also have to overcome the infighting that has hampered them the last two years — and cracks are already showing in their unity.In an internal vote this week, Johnson received his party's nomination to remain speaker when the new Congress starts Jan. 3. But lawmakers are still haggling over whether to keep in place rules that allowed a small group of conservatives to trigger the ouster of Johnson's predecessor,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mccarthy-gaetz-speaker-motion-to-vacate-congress-327e294a39f8de079ef5e4abfb1fa555">former Speaker Kevin McCarthy</a>.With a razor-thin majority, almost any Republican can block legislation from moving forward, as the conservative bloc has done periodically.“As usual, it’s going to be very difficult for Congress to get anything done,” said Rob Speel, a political science professor at Penn State Behrend.

House elections a stalemate. Can GOP figure out how to work with a thin majority?

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Two brothers involved in a stabbing on Friday morning in Lawrence are in custody.

The attack occurred about 10a.m in the 1900 block of East 19th Street, according to a media release. The victim was in serious condition when paramedics transported him to an area trauma center. 

Evidence shows one of the brothers sent a threatening message to an ex-girlfriend stating they were coming to her home to harm her other “ex”, who was there. Investigators found they did just that – and when the four met, a fight started. The man who was visiting was stabbed. The brothers fled.

Officers safely arrested one of the brothers at his home and, after a short search, were able to take the other into custody.

The victim is expected to recover. Police did not release names of the suspects. Police detective are working to submit an affidavit to the District Attorney’s Office detailing what led up to the violence.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Two brothers involved in a stabbing on Friday morning in Lawrence are in custody.The attack occurred about 10a.m in the 1900 block of East 19th Street, according to a media release. The victim was in serious condition when paramedics transported him to an area trauma center. Evidence shows one of the brothers sent a threatening message to an ex-girlfriend stating they were coming to her home to harm her other “ex”, who was there. Investigators found they did just that – and when the four met, a fight started. The man who was visiting was stabbed. The brothers fled.Officers safely arrested one of the brothers at his home and, after a short search, were able to take the other into custody.The victim is expected to recover. Police did not release names of the suspects. Police detective are working to submit an affidavit to the District Attorney’s Office detailing what led up to the violence.

Two Kan. brothers jailed after knife attack at ex-girlfriend's home

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The boos from a crowd wanting more action were growing again when Jake Paul dropped his gloves before the final bell and bowed toward 58-year-old Mike Tyson.

Paying homage to one of the biggest names in boxing history didn't do much for the estimated 72,000 fans who filled the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys on Friday night.

Paul won an eight-round unanimous decision over Tyson as the hits didn't match the hype in a fight between the 27-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer and the former heavyweight champion in his first sanctioned pro bout in almost 20 years.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mike-tyson-jake-paul-fight-443168254174c23f7e9a8b7deb4c9173">All the hate</a>&nbsp;from the prefight buildup was gone, replaced by boos from bewildered fans hoping for more from a fight that drew&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-vs-paul-fight-efae4cab8a8731a938a3da3da54854ea">plenty of questions about its legitimacy</a>&nbsp;long beforehand.

The fight wasn't close on the judge's cards, with one giving Paul an 80-72 edge and the other two calling it 79-73.

“Let’s give it up for Mike,” Paul said in the ring, not getting much response from a crowd that started filing out before the decision was announced. “He’s the greatest to ever do it. I look up to him. I’m inspired by him.”

Tyson came after Paul immediately after the opening bell and landed a couple of quick punches but didn't try much else the rest of the way.

Even fewer rounds than the normal 10 or 12 and two-minute rounds instead of three, along with heavier gloves designed to lessen the power of punches, couldn't do much to generate action.

Paul was more aggressive after the quick burst from Tyson in the opening seconds, but the punching wasn't very efficient. There were quite a few wild swings and misses.

“I was trying to hurt him a little bit,” said Paul, who is 11-1 with seven knockouts. “I was scared he was going to hurt me. I was trying to hurt him. I did my best. I did my best.”

Tyson mostly sat back and waited for Paul to come to him, with a few exceptions. It was quite the contrast to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/katie-taylor-amanda-serrano-fight-a65985c40c86c45546ffe2060b0f70eb">the co-main event</a>, another slugfest between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano in which Taylor kept her undisputed super lightweight championship with another disputed decision.

Paul, who said an ankle injury limited his sparring sessions in the final weeks of training camp, said he eased up starting in about the third round because he thought Tyson was tired and vulnerable.

“I wanted to give the fans a show, but I didn't want to hurt somebody that didn't need to be hurt,” Paul said.

It was the first sanctioned fight since 2005 for Tyson, who fought Roy Jones Jr. in a much more entertaining exhibition in 2020. Paul started fighting a little more than four years ago.

“I didn’t prove nothing to anybody, only to myself,” Tyson said when asked what it meant to complete the fight. “I'm not one of those guys that looks to please the world. I'm just happy with what I can do.”

The fight was originally scheduled for July 20 but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mike-tyson-postponed-jake-paul-7383b668be4a94f5e6fe9037a84be87c">had to be postponed</a>&nbsp;when Tyson was treated for a stomach ulcer after falling ill on a flight. His record is now 50-7 with 44 knockouts.

Tyson slapped Paul on the face during the weigh-in a night before the fight, and they traded insults in several of the hype events, before and after the postponement.

The hate was long gone by the end of the anticlimactic fight.

“I have so much respect for him,” Paul said. “That violence, war thing between us, like after he slapped me, I wanted to be aggressive and take him down and knock him out and all that stuff. That kind of went away as the rounds went on.”

The fight set a Texas record for combat sports with a gate of nearly $18 million, according to organizers, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-paul-netflix-f8815c0789e4f202731cbaff9bf85bf6">Netflix had problems with the feed</a>&nbsp;in the streaming platform's first live combat sports event. Netflix has more than 280 million subscribers globally.

“This is the biggest event,” Paul said. “Over 120 million people on Netflix. We crashed the site.”

Among the celebrities on hand were basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal and former NFL star Rob Gronkowski, along with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.

Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, two foes from Tyson's heyday, greeted him in his locker room before the fight.

Tyson infamously bit Holyfield on the ear in a 1997 bout, and he appeared to have one of his gloves in his mouth several times during the Paul bout. He was asked if he had problem with his mouthpiece.

“I have a habit of biting my gloves,” Tyson said. “I have a biting fixation.”

“I've heard about that,” the interview responded.

According to reports, Paul's payday was $40 million, compared with $20 million for Tyson. Paul mentioned his number during a promotional event over the summer. Tyson has a history of legal and financial troubles but had said he didn't take the fight for money.

Mario Barrios retained the WBC welterweight title in a draw with Abel Ramos on the undercard. Barrios was in control early before Ramos dominated the middle rounds. Each had a knockdown in the 12-round bout.

It was the first fight for the 29-year-old Barrios since he was appointed the WBC welterweight champ when Terence Crawford started the process of moving up from the 147-pound class.

Barrios, who is 29-2-1, won the interim WBC title with a unanimous decision over Yordenis Ugás last year. The 33-year-old Ramos is 28-6-3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731676276473.jpeg" alt="Mike Tyson, front left, and Jake Paul, front right, face off during a news conference ahead of their fight, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)" />
 <figcaption>Mike Tyson, front left, and Jake Paul, front right, face off during a news conference ahead of their fight, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)</figcaption>
 </figure>ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The boos from a crowd wanting more action were growing again when Jake Paul dropped his gloves before the final bell and bowed toward 58-year-old Mike Tyson.Paying homage to one of the biggest names in boxing history didn't do much for the estimated 72,000 fans who filled the home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys on Friday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yes, it feels like we should all be able to file criminal complaints against Netflix. No, we can’t.&mdash; Lawrence Police (@LawrenceKS_PD) <a href="https://twitter.com/LawrenceKS_PD/status/1857632918123982996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Paul won an eight-round unanimous decision over Tyson as the hits didn't match the hype in a fight between the 27-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer and the former heavyweight champion in his first sanctioned pro bout in almost 20 years.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mike-tyson-jake-paul-fight-443168254174c23f7e9a8b7deb4c9173">All the hate</a>&nbsp;from the prefight buildup was gone, replaced by boos from bewildered fans hoping for more from a fight that drew&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-vs-paul-fight-efae4cab8a8731a938a3da3da54854ea">plenty of questions about its legitimacy</a>&nbsp;long beforehand.The fight wasn't close on the judge's cards, with one giving Paul an 80-72 edge and the other two calling it 79-73.“Let’s give it up for Mike,” Paul said in the ring, not getting much response from a crowd that started filing out before the decision was announced. “He’s the greatest to ever do it. I look up to him. I’m inspired by him.”Tyson came after Paul immediately after the opening bell and landed a couple of quick punches but didn't try much else the rest of the way.Even fewer rounds than the normal 10 or 12 and two-minute rounds instead of three, along with heavier gloves designed to lessen the power of punches, couldn't do much to generate action.Paul was more aggressive after the quick burst from Tyson in the opening seconds, but the punching wasn't very efficient. There were quite a few wild swings and misses.“I was trying to hurt him a little bit,” said Paul, who is 11-1 with seven knockouts. “I was scared he was going to hurt me. I was trying to hurt him. I did my best. I did my best.”Tyson mostly sat back and waited for Paul to come to him, with a few exceptions. It was quite the contrast to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/katie-taylor-amanda-serrano-fight-a65985c40c86c45546ffe2060b0f70eb">the co-main event</a>, another slugfest between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano in which Taylor kept her undisputed super lightweight championship with another disputed decision.Paul, who said an ankle injury limited his sparring sessions in the final weeks of training camp, said he eased up starting in about the third round because he thought Tyson was tired and vulnerable.“I wanted to give the fans a show, but I didn't want to hurt somebody that didn't need to be hurt,” Paul said.It was the first sanctioned fight since 2005 for Tyson, who fought Roy Jones Jr. in a much more entertaining exhibition in 2020. Paul started fighting a little more than four years ago.“I didn’t prove nothing to anybody, only to myself,” Tyson said when asked what it meant to complete the fight. “I'm not one of those guys that looks to please the world. I'm just happy with what I can do.”The fight was originally scheduled for July 20 but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mike-tyson-postponed-jake-paul-7383b668be4a94f5e6fe9037a84be87c">had to be postponed</a>&nbsp;when Tyson was treated for a stomach ulcer after falling ill on a flight. His record is now 50-7 with 44 knockouts.Tyson slapped Paul on the face during the weigh-in a night before the fight, and they traded insults in several of the hype events, before and after the postponement.The hate was long gone by the end of the anticlimactic fight.“I have so much respect for him,” Paul said. “That violence, war thing between us, like after he slapped me, I wanted to be aggressive and take him down and knock him out and all that stuff. That kind of went away as the rounds went on.”The fight set a Texas record for combat sports with a gate of nearly $18 million, according to organizers, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tyson-paul-netflix-f8815c0789e4f202731cbaff9bf85bf6">Netflix had problems with the feed</a>&nbsp;in the streaming platform's first live combat sports event. Netflix has more than 280 million subscribers globally.“This is the biggest event,” Paul said. “Over 120 million people on Netflix. We crashed the site.”Among the celebrities on hand were basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal and former NFL star Rob Gronkowski, along with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, two foes from Tyson's heyday, greeted him in his locker room before the fight.Tyson infamously bit Holyfield on the ear in a 1997 bout, and he appeared to have one of his gloves in his mouth several times during the Paul bout. He was asked if he had problem with his mouthpiece.“I have a habit of biting my gloves,” Tyson said. “I have a biting fixation.”“I've heard about that,” the interview responded.According to reports, Paul's payday was $40 million, compared with $20 million for Tyson. Paul mentioned his number during a promotional event over the summer. Tyson has a history of legal and financial troubles but had said he didn't take the fight for money.Mario Barrios retained the WBC welterweight title in a draw with Abel Ramos on the undercard. Barrios was in control early before Ramos dominated the middle rounds. Each had a knockdown in the 12-round bout.It was the first fight for the 29-year-old Barrios since he was appointed the WBC welterweight champ when Terence Crawford started the process of moving up from the 147-pound class.Barrios, who is 29-2-1, won the interim WBC title with a unanimous decision over Yordenis Ugás last year. The 33-year-old Ramos is 28-6-3.

Jake Paul beats 58-year-old Mike Tyson as the hits don't match the hype

LIVINGSTON COUNTY, Mo. — One person died in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Friday in Livingston County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Lexus driven by a 44-year-old from Overland Park, Kansas was westbound on U.S. 36 two miles west of Utica.

The Lexus rear-ended a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by a 70-year-old Chillicothe, Missouri, man who was slowing to make a turn

The driver of the Lexus was pronounced dead at the scene. Chillicothe ambulance transported the semi driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The patrol did not release the names of the drivers.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY, Mo. — One person died in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Friday in Livingston County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Lexus driven by a 44-year-old from Overland Park, Kansas was westbound on U.S. 36 two miles west of Utica.The Lexus rear-ended a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by a 70-year-old Chillicothe, Missouri, man who was slowing to make a turnThe driver of the Lexus was pronounced dead at the scene. Chillicothe ambulance transported the semi driver to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.&nbsp; The patrol did not release the names of the drivers.

Kansas man dies after vehicle rear-ends semi's trailer

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A student at Wichita State University from Bangladesh is in jail facing sex crime charges.

On Thursday, 29-year-old Md. Barkat Mia made his first court appearance and was charged with aggravated criminal sodomy, rape and attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On November 4, authorities reported an alleged sex assault, according to the police crime log at Wichita State University.

He is being held on a bond of&nbsp;$200,000, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731707391695.png" alt="Mia-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Mia-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A student at Wichita State University from Bangladesh is in jail facing sex crime charges.On Thursday, 29-year-old Md. Barkat Mia made his first court appearance and was charged with aggravated criminal sodomy, rape and attempted aggravated criminal sodomy, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On November 4, authorities reported an alleged sex assault, according to the police crime log at Wichita State University.He is being held on a bond of&nbsp;$200,000, according to the district attorney's office.

Student from Bangladesh accused of sex crimes at Wichita State

SALINA, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) completed its investigation into the July 24 officer-involved shooting resulting in the death of Jesse Wray, of Salina.&nbsp;

KBI’s investigation included shooting reconstruction, forensic testing of evidence, interviews of witnesses and first responders, autopsy, and a review of video footage including body-worn cameras, dashboard cameras, and surveillance videos. These investigative efforts resulted in a thorough understanding of the events of this critical incident.

Findings indicated that when officers from Salina Police Department (SPD) took Larry Wray Jr. into custody on a warrant, an officer saw Jesse Wray inside the detached garage, pointing a gun at him. Jesse Wray had a warrant for his arrest, so officers retreated and called for further assistance. Additional SPD officers and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) arrived on scene, and were made aware that Wray was in possession of a firearm. Wray did not comply with multiple commands to “come out with your hands up” and similar directives.

After a period of time, officers observed smoke and flames coming from the garage, and the garage door began to open. A female subject exited the garage first, with her hands up, and Wray ran out behind her. Wray ducked behind a parked truck in the driveway where he crouched in what appeared to be a shooting stance, extending his hands in front of him and toward officers. Two officers from SPD fired nine rounds, but no rounds struck Wray.

Wray then ran to the west side of the garage where KHP troopers and a SPD officer were positioned. He emerged face-to-face with them. A trooper and an SPD officer fired four shots, fatally wounding Wray. Only 6.35 seconds passed from the initial gunfire at the front of the garage to the final shots on the west side.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated the fire that occurred in the unattached garage. They determined the fire was intentionally set. A black BB gun, that was manufactured to look like a revolver, was recovered inside the fire-damaged garage.

On Nov. 4, the KBI received a letter from Saline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel summarizing his review of the officer-involved shooting case. He stated, “The video is clear that there is not a gun in his hand at this time [when Wray exits the garage and takes position], however, the gesture and body posture would lead any reasonable person to believe that a gun was being raised and pointed at officers.”

In reference to the subsequent shots fired by the trooper and SPD officer, County Attorney Ebel determined, “Both officers stated they heard shots from a handgun and both attributed those shots to Wray, as they knew he had a gun and heard yelling.”

“Under Kansas law, and the facts of the case, I conclude that the officers are immune from prosecution and no criminal charges can be filed against the officers because any reasonable officer would believe that the use of deadly force was justified,” said Ebel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660826304117.jpeg" alt="Jesse Wray photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Jesse Wray photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA, Kan. –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) completed its investigation into the July 24 officer-involved shooting resulting in the death of Jesse Wray, of Salina.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731703477207.png" alt="Wray’s position right before first shots fired, according to the KBI report released on Nov. 15." />
 <figcaption>Wray’s position right before first shots fired, according to the KBI report released on Nov. 15.</figcaption>
 </figure>KBI’s investigation included shooting reconstruction, forensic testing of evidence, interviews of witnesses and first responders, autopsy, and a review of video footage including body-worn cameras, dashboard cameras, and surveillance videos. These investigative efforts resulted in a thorough understanding of the events of this critical incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731703663062.png" alt="Firearm located in garage-image KBI" />
 <figcaption>Firearm located in garage-image KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Findings indicated that when officers from Salina Police Department (SPD) took Larry Wray Jr. into custody on a warrant, an officer saw Jesse Wray inside the detached garage, pointing a gun at him. Jesse Wray had a warrant for his arrest, so officers retreated and called for further assistance. Additional SPD officers and the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) arrived on scene, and were made aware that Wray was in possession of a firearm. Wray did not comply with multiple commands to “come out with your hands up” and similar directives.After a period of time, officers observed smoke and flames coming from the garage, and the garage door began to open. A female subject exited the garage first, with her hands up, and Wray ran out behind her. Wray ducked behind a parked truck in the driveway where he crouched in what appeared to be a shooting stance, extending his hands in front of him and toward officers. Two officers from SPD fired nine rounds, but no rounds struck Wray.Wray then ran to the west side of the garage where KHP troopers and a SPD officer were positioned. He emerged face-to-face with them. A trooper and an SPD officer fired four shots, fatally wounding Wray. Only 6.35 seconds passed from the initial gunfire at the front of the garage to the final shots on the west side.The Office of the State Fire Marshal investigated the fire that occurred in the unattached garage. They determined the fire was intentionally set. A black BB gun, that was manufactured to look like a revolver, was recovered inside the fire-damaged garage.On Nov. 4, the KBI received a letter from Saline County Attorney Jeffery Ebel summarizing his review of the officer-involved shooting case. He stated, “The video is clear that there is not a gun in his hand at this time [when Wray exits the garage and takes position], however, the gesture and body posture would lead any reasonable person to believe that a gun was being raised and pointed at officers.”In reference to the subsequent shots fired by the trooper and SPD officer, County Attorney Ebel determined, “Both officers stated they heard shots from a handgun and both attributed those shots to Wray, as they knew he had a gun and heard yelling.”“Under Kansas law, and the facts of the case, I conclude that the officers are immune from prosecution and no criminal charges can be filed against the officers because any reasonable officer would believe that the use of deadly force was justified,” said Ebel.

KBI: No charges against officers in shooting that left 25-year-old dead

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement continue to the investigate the death of a woman in her home in Clearwater.

Just before 10:30a.m. Thursday, officers from the Clearwater Police Department and emergency personnel from Sedgwick County EMS responded to a report of a possible death at a home in the 300 block of S. Tracy in Clearwater, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.

First responders located 45-year-old Melina Hinkle, a Clearwater resident, deceased inside the home.

The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division, at the request of the Clearwater Police Department, has taken over the investigation. The Sedgwick County Coroner’s Office notedthere were no signs of trauma on the body, and the cause of death is currently pending toxicology results. 

Detectives remained on-site finalizing scene processing throughout Friday afternoon.

The Sheriff’s Office extends appreciation to community members who have reached out with information related to the investigation. There is no indication of a public safety concern and the Sheriff’s Office requests the community’s continued cooperation as the investigation proceeds.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731701347862.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement continue to the investigate the death of a woman in her home in Clearwater.Just before 10:30a.m. Thursday, officers from the Clearwater Police Department and emergency personnel from Sedgwick County EMS responded to a report of a possible death at a home in the 300 block of S. Tracy in Clearwater, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.First responders located 45-year-old Melina Hinkle, a Clearwater resident, deceased inside the home.The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division, at the request of the Clearwater Police Department, has taken over the investigation. The Sedgwick County Coroner’s Office notedthere were no signs of trauma on the body, and the cause of death is currently pending toxicology results. Detectives remained on-site finalizing scene processing throughout Friday afternoon.The Sheriff’s Office extends appreciation to community members who have reached out with information related to the investigation. There is no indication of a public safety concern and the Sheriff’s Office requests the community’s continued cooperation as the investigation proceeds.

Sheriff updates investigation on death of 45-year-old Kan. woman

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks tumbled Friday as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-markets-rates-china-93421462d761eb1402d813cb381fe6e9">“Trump bump”</a>&nbsp;that Wall Street got from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024">last week’s presidential election</a>, along with a cut to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-election-inflation-trump-economy-prices-e6b837fd85cff5ad71d4e40939b97237">interest rates</a>&nbsp;by the Federal Reserve, kept&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-inflation-dollar-6a96ed4aef82bac9c23efd5d05d07a9b">fading</a>.

The S&amp;P 500 dropped 1.3% for its worst day since before Election Day to close out a losing week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 305 points, or 0.7%, and the Nasdaq composite sank 2.2%.

Makers of vaccines helped drag the market down after President-elect Donald Trump said he wants Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/robert-f-kennedy-vaccines-trump-rfkjr-7f8dcb25de76a5a70710d22bbc63f6fa">anti-vaccine activist</a>, to lead the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rfk-hhs-health-kennedy-f40ee2398e3a280c1586eecdd80bdf7c">Department of Health and Human Services</a>. Moderna tumbled 7.3%, and Pfizer fell 4.7% amid concerns about a possible hit to profits.

Kennedy still needs confirmation from the Senate to get the job, and some analysts are skeptical about his chances. “However, if Kennedy is confirmed, it is hard to bookend risks for investors as his views are so outside the traditional Republican health policy orthodoxy,” Raymond James analyst Chris Meekins wrote in a research note. Meekins is a former deputy assistant secretary at the department known as HHS.

“Investors may need to forget everything they thought they knew about Republicans and healthcare,” Meekins said. “Kennedy’s appointment may make it less likely traditional qualified experienced (Republican) staff will agree to join HHS, creating more uncertainty.”

Biotech stocks broadly sank to some of the market’s worst losses, but the sharpest drop in the S&amp;P 500 came from Applied Materials. It fell 9.2% even though it reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.

The provider of manufacturing equipment and services to the semiconductor industry gave a forecasted range for upcoming revenue whose midpoint was short of analysts’ expectations.

The pressure is on companies to deliver big growth, in part because their stock prices have been rising so much faster than their earnings. That’s made the broad stock market look more expensive by a range of measures, which has critics calling for at least a fade. The S&amp;P 500 is still up 23% for the year and not far from its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-markets-interest-rates-china-inflation-72c7ecb237655a0f88b45ac90643fcd2">all-time high</a>&nbsp;set on Monday, despite this past week’s weakness.

Stocks had been broadly roaring since Election Day, when Trump’s victory sent a jolt through financial markets worldwide. Investors immediately began sending up stocks of banks, smaller U.S. companies and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dogecoin-trump-doge-musk-crypto-5a6f9d61ad7c5d4fc94f567dd9ee090e">cryptocurrencies</a>&nbsp;as they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-regulation-taxes-tariffs-energy-retail-technology-cff11a24cf9a7e05a7b42b3e99a61768">laid bets</a>&nbsp;on the winners coming out of Trump’s preference for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-wins-second-term-policies-de3dcf0f173b42602b258042fd7aaafb">higher tariffs, lower tax rates and lighter regulation</a>.

But investors are also taking into account some of the potential downsides from Trump’s return to the White House.

Besides Friday’s hit to vaccine makers, Treasury yields have been climbing on both the economy’s surprising resilience and worries that Trump’s policies could spur&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inflation-tariffs-taxes-immigration-federal-reserve-a18de763fcc01557258c7f33cab375ed">bigger U.S. government deficits and faster inflation</a>.

That’s forced traders to recalibrate how much relief the Federal Reserve could provide for the economy next year through cuts to interest rates. The Fed earlier this month lowered its main interest rate for the second time this year, and past forecasts indicated Fed officials saw more cuts as likely through 2025.

Lower interest rates can act as fuel for the economy and stock market, but they can also put upward pressure on inflation.

On Thursday, Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggested the U.S. central bank&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-economy-trump-election-rates-0fbe8b37fad39e03ded3bfc87d9ccc9f">may be cautious</a>&nbsp;about future decisions on interest rates. “The economy is not sending any signals that we need to be in a hurry to lower rates,” Powell said, though he declined to discuss how Trump’s potential policies could alter things.

Traders have since ratcheted back forecasts for whether the Fed will cut rates again at its meeting next month, though they still see better than a coin flip’s chance of it, according to data from CME Group.

On Friday, Treasury yields edged down in the bond market after swinging following several reports on the economy.

One showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/retailers-spending-consumers-inflation-stores-shoppers-economy-d9373d589c5af93504920c5894753444">shoppers spent more at U.S. retailers</a>&nbsp;last month than expected, another signal that the most influential force on the economy remains solid.

“Many consumers were reporting that they were putting off trips and big ticket item purchases until after the election,” according to Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management. “Many businesses reported they were putting off capital investment due to the election. Now that the uncertainty of the outcome is behind us, we could see some decent ‘relief spending.’”

Friday’s data on retail sales, though, may not be quite as strong as it appeared. After taking away purchases of automobiles, sales at retailers were weaker last month than economists expected.

The 10-year Treasury’s yield held at 4.44%, where it was late Thursday, after swinging up and down. The two-year yield, which more closely tracks expectations for Fed action, fell to 4.31% from 4.36% late Thursday.

All told, the S&amp;P 500 fell 78.55 points to 5,870.62. The Dow dropped 305.87 to 43,444.99, and the Nasdaq sank 427.53 to 18,680.12.

In stock markets abroad, London’s FTSE 100 fell 0.1% after data from the Office for National Statistics showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/britain-growth-labour-economy-reeves-output-q3-53fbbd31d5b959e94b453455a3b6823d">economic growth slowed</a>&nbsp;to 0.1% in the July-September quarter from the 0.5% in the previous quarter. It was weaker than expected.

Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.3% after data showed growth for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-economy-gdp-growth-consumption-inflation-f3c5a6f250f34f0630f77628185f4543">Japan’s economy</a>&nbsp;accelerated in the latest quarter, even as the Bank of Japan raised interest rates in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962507580.png" alt="File (AP Photo/Richard Drew)" />
 <figcaption>File (AP Photo/Richard Drew)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks tumbled Friday as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-markets-rates-china-93421462d761eb1402d813cb381fe6e9">“Trump bump”</a>&nbsp;that Wall Street got from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024">last week’s presidential election</a>, along with a cut to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-election-inflation-trump-economy-prices-e6b837fd85cff5ad71d4e40939b97237">interest rates</a>&nbsp;by the Federal Reserve, kept&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-inflation-dollar-6a96ed4aef82bac9c23efd5d05d07a9b">fading</a>.The S&amp;P 500 dropped 1.3% for its worst day since before Election Day to close out a losing week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 305 points, or 0.7%, and the Nasdaq composite sank 2.2%.Makers of vaccines helped drag the market down after President-elect Donald Trump said he wants Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/robert-f-kennedy-vaccines-trump-rfkjr-7f8dcb25de76a5a70710d22bbc63f6fa">anti-vaccine activist</a>, to lead the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rfk-hhs-health-kennedy-f40ee2398e3a280c1586eecdd80bdf7c">Department of Health and Human Services</a>. Moderna tumbled 7.3%, and Pfizer fell 4.7% amid concerns about a possible hit to profits.Kennedy still needs confirmation from the Senate to get the job, and some analysts are skeptical about his chances. “However, if Kennedy is confirmed, it is hard to bookend risks for investors as his views are so outside the traditional Republican health policy orthodoxy,” Raymond James analyst Chris Meekins wrote in a research note. Meekins is a former deputy assistant secretary at the department known as HHS.“Investors may need to forget everything they thought they knew about Republicans and healthcare,” Meekins said. “Kennedy’s appointment may make it less likely traditional qualified experienced (Republican) staff will agree to join HHS, creating more uncertainty.”Biotech stocks broadly sank to some of the market’s worst losses, but the sharpest drop in the S&amp;P 500 came from Applied Materials. It fell 9.2% even though it reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.The provider of manufacturing equipment and services to the semiconductor industry gave a forecasted range for upcoming revenue whose midpoint was short of analysts’ expectations.The pressure is on companies to deliver big growth, in part because their stock prices have been rising so much faster than their earnings. That’s made the broad stock market look more expensive by a range of measures, which has critics calling for at least a fade. The S&amp;P 500 is still up 23% for the year and not far from its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-markets-interest-rates-china-inflation-72c7ecb237655a0f88b45ac90643fcd2">all-time high</a>&nbsp;set on Monday, despite this past week’s weakness.Stocks had been broadly roaring since Election Day, when Trump’s victory sent a jolt through financial markets worldwide. Investors immediately began sending up stocks of banks, smaller U.S. companies and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dogecoin-trump-doge-musk-crypto-5a6f9d61ad7c5d4fc94f567dd9ee090e">cryptocurrencies</a>&nbsp;as they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-regulation-taxes-tariffs-energy-retail-technology-cff11a24cf9a7e05a7b42b3e99a61768">laid bets</a>&nbsp;on the winners coming out of Trump’s preference for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-wins-second-term-policies-de3dcf0f173b42602b258042fd7aaafb">higher tariffs, lower tax rates and lighter regulation</a>.But investors are also taking into account some of the potential downsides from Trump’s return to the White House.Besides Friday’s hit to vaccine makers, Treasury yields have been climbing on both the economy’s surprising resilience and worries that Trump’s policies could spur&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inflation-tariffs-taxes-immigration-federal-reserve-a18de763fcc01557258c7f33cab375ed">bigger U.S. government deficits and faster inflation</a>.That’s forced traders to recalibrate how much relief the Federal Reserve could provide for the economy next year through cuts to interest rates. The Fed earlier this month lowered its main interest rate for the second time this year, and past forecasts indicated Fed officials saw more cuts as likely through 2025.Lower interest rates can act as fuel for the economy and stock market, but they can also put upward pressure on inflation.On Thursday, Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggested the U.S. central bank&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-economy-trump-election-rates-0fbe8b37fad39e03ded3bfc87d9ccc9f">may be cautious</a>&nbsp;about future decisions on interest rates. “The economy is not sending any signals that we need to be in a hurry to lower rates,” Powell said, though he declined to discuss how Trump’s potential policies could alter things.Traders have since ratcheted back forecasts for whether the Fed will cut rates again at its meeting next month, though they still see better than a coin flip’s chance of it, according to data from CME Group.On Friday, Treasury yields edged down in the bond market after swinging following several reports on the economy.One showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/retailers-spending-consumers-inflation-stores-shoppers-economy-d9373d589c5af93504920c5894753444">shoppers spent more at U.S. retailers</a>&nbsp;last month than expected, another signal that the most influential force on the economy remains solid.“Many consumers were reporting that they were putting off trips and big ticket item purchases until after the election,” according to Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management. “Many businesses reported they were putting off capital investment due to the election. Now that the uncertainty of the outcome is behind us, we could see some decent ‘relief spending.’”Friday’s data on retail sales, though, may not be quite as strong as it appeared. After taking away purchases of automobiles, sales at retailers were weaker last month than economists expected.The 10-year Treasury’s yield held at 4.44%, where it was late Thursday, after swinging up and down. The two-year yield, which more closely tracks expectations for Fed action, fell to 4.31% from 4.36% late Thursday.All told, the S&amp;P 500 fell 78.55 points to 5,870.62. The Dow dropped 305.87 to 43,444.99, and the Nasdaq sank 427.53 to 18,680.12.In stock markets abroad, London’s FTSE 100 fell 0.1% after data from the Office for National Statistics showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/britain-growth-labour-economy-reeves-output-q3-53fbbd31d5b959e94b453455a3b6823d">economic growth slowed</a>&nbsp;to 0.1% in the July-September quarter from the 0.5% in the previous quarter. It was weaker than expected.Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.3% after data showed growth for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-economy-gdp-growth-consumption-inflation-f3c5a6f250f34f0630f77628185f4543">Japan’s economy</a>&nbsp;accelerated in the latest quarter, even as the Bank of Japan raised interest rates in July.___

Wall Street tumbles as the “Trump bump” fades, vaccine makers sink

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating another deadly shooting in Kansas City have identified the victim as 34-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Waleed M. Shaban, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Just before 1p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the the&nbsp;300&nbsp;block&nbsp;of&nbsp;E.&nbsp;Linwood&nbsp;Boulevard in Kansas City, according to Gonzalez.

When officers responded to the area, several people pointed in the direction of a nearby business advising someone had been shot. 

First responders found Shaban who was unresponsive in a business parking lot suffering from apparent gunshot trauma.&nbsp;

EMS responded shortly after and declared the him deceased at the scene.A person of interest was immediately located and taken into custody for further questioning.

Preliminary details indicate that two individuals were&nbsp;engaged in an argument that&nbsp;escalated into gunfire. The relationship between the victim and suspect is actively being investigated, as well as any connection to the business. Detectives are not currently looking for any additional persons of interest, according to Gonzalez.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731615779173.png" alt="Photo by Alex Love courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Alex Love courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating another deadly shooting in Kansas City have identified the victim as 34-year-old&nbsp;&nbsp;Waleed M. Shaban, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.Just before 1p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the the&nbsp;300&nbsp;block&nbsp;of&nbsp;E.&nbsp;Linwood&nbsp;Boulevard in Kansas City, according to Gonzalez.When officers responded to the area, several people pointed in the direction of a nearby business advising someone had been shot. First responders found Shaban who was unresponsive in a business parking lot suffering from apparent gunshot trauma.&nbsp;EMS responded shortly after and declared the him deceased at the scene.A person of interest was immediately located and taken into custody for further questioning.Preliminary details indicate that two individuals were&nbsp;engaged in an argument that&nbsp;escalated into gunfire. The relationship between the victim and suspect is actively being investigated, as well as any connection to the business. Detectives are not currently looking for any additional persons of interest, according to Gonzalez.

Police ID man killed in Kansas City business parking lot

ATLANTA —Worldwide, there were an estimated 10.3 million cases of measles in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022, according to new estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Inadequate immunization coverage globally is driving the surge in cases, according to the CDC.

Measles is preventable with two doses of the measles vaccine; yet more than 22 million children missed their first dose of the measles vaccine in 2023. Globally, an estimated 83% of children received their first dose of measles vaccine last year, while only 74% received the recommended second dose.

Coverage of 95% or greater of two doses of measles vaccine is needed in each country and community to prevent outbreaks and protect populations from one of the world's most contagious human viruses.

As of November 7, 2024, a total of 277 measles cases were reported by 32 jurisdictions: Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.

"Measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years," said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. "To save even more lives and stop this deadly virus from harming the most vulnerable, we must invest in immunization for every person, no matter where they live."

"The number of measles infections are rising around the globe, endangering lives and health," CDC Director Mandy Cohen said. "The measles vaccine is our best protection against the virus, and we must continue to invest in efforts to increase access."

As a result of global gaps in vaccination coverage, 57 countries experienced large or disruptive measles outbreaks in 2023, affecting all regions except the Americas, and representing a nearly 60% increase from 36 countries in the previous year. The WHO African, Eastern Mediterranean, European, Southeast Asia and Western Pacific regions experienced a substantial upsurge in cases. Nearly half of all large or disruptive outbreaks occurred in the African region.

An unacceptable death toll due to rising measles cases

The new data show that an estimated 107,500 people, mostly children younger than 5 years of age, died due to measles in 2023. Although this is an 8% decrease from the previous year, far too many children are still dying from this preventable disease. This slight reduction in deaths was mainly because the surge in cases occurred in countries and regions where children with measles are less likely to die, due to better nutritional status and access to health services.

Even when people survive measles, serious health effects can occur, some of which are lifelong. Infants and young children are at greatest risk of serious complications from the disease, which include blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis (an infection causing brain swelling and potentially brain damage).

As measles cases surge and outbreaks increase, the world's elimination goal, as laid out in Immunization Agenda 2030, is under threat. Worldwide, 82 countries had achieved or maintained measles elimination at the end of 2023. Just this week, Brazil was reverified as having eliminated measles, making the WHO Americas Region once again free of endemic measles. With the exception of the African Region, at least 1 country in all WHO regions has eliminated the disease.

Urgent and targeted efforts by countries and partners, particularly in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions, and in fragile, conflict-affected, and vulnerable settings, are needed to vaccinate all children fully with two doses of measles vaccine. This requires achieving and maintaining high-performing routine immunization programmes and delivering high-quality, high-coverage campaigns when those programmes are not yet sufficient to protect every child.

Countries and global immunization partners must also strengthen disease surveillance, including the Global Measles Rubella Laboratory Network (GMRLN). Strong disease surveillance is critical to optimizing immunization programmes and detecting and responding rapidly to measles outbreaks in order to mitigate their size and impact.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731697519867.png" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA —Worldwide, there were an estimated 10.3 million cases of measles in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022, according to new estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Inadequate immunization coverage globally is driving the surge in cases, according to the CDC.Measles is preventable with two doses of the measles vaccine; yet more than 22 million children missed their first dose of the measles vaccine in 2023. Globally, an estimated 83% of children received their first dose of measles vaccine last year, while only 74% received the recommended second dose.Coverage of 95% or greater of two doses of measles vaccine is needed in each country and community to prevent outbreaks and protect populations from one of the world's most contagious human viruses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731697414720.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As of November 7, 2024, a total of 277 measles cases were reported by 32 jurisdictions: Arizona, California, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731697454790.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Measles vaccine has saved more lives than any other vaccine in the past 50 years," said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. "To save even more lives and stop this deadly virus from harming the most vulnerable, we must invest in immunization for every person, no matter where they live.""The number of measles infections are rising around the globe, endangering lives and health," CDC Director Mandy Cohen said. "The measles vaccine is our best protection against the virus, and we must continue to invest in efforts to increase access."As a result of global gaps in vaccination coverage, 57 countries experienced large or disruptive measles outbreaks in 2023, affecting all regions except the Americas, and representing a nearly 60% increase from 36 countries in the previous year. The WHO African, Eastern Mediterranean, European, Southeast Asia and Western Pacific regions experienced a substantial upsurge in cases. Nearly half of all large or disruptive outbreaks occurred in the African region.An unacceptable death toll due to rising measles casesThe new data show that an estimated 107,500 people, mostly children younger than 5 years of age, died due to measles in 2023. Although this is an 8% decrease from the previous year, far too many children are still dying from this preventable disease. This slight reduction in deaths was mainly because the surge in cases occurred in countries and regions where children with measles are less likely to die, due to better nutritional status and access to health services.Even when people survive measles, serious health effects can occur, some of which are lifelong. Infants and young children are at greatest risk of serious complications from the disease, which include blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis (an infection causing brain swelling and potentially brain damage).As measles cases surge and outbreaks increase, the world's elimination goal, as laid out in Immunization Agenda 2030, is under threat. Worldwide, 82 countries had achieved or maintained measles elimination at the end of 2023. Just this week, Brazil was reverified as having eliminated measles, making the WHO Americas Region once again free of endemic measles. With the exception of the African Region, at least 1 country in all WHO regions has eliminated the disease.Urgent and targeted efforts by countries and partners, particularly in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions, and in fragile, conflict-affected, and vulnerable settings, are needed to vaccinate all children fully with two doses of measles vaccine. This requires achieving and maintaining high-performing routine immunization programmes and delivering high-quality, high-coverage campaigns when those programmes are not yet sufficient to protect every child.Countries and global immunization partners must also strengthen disease surveillance, including the Global Measles Rubella Laboratory Network (GMRLN). Strong disease surveillance is critical to optimizing immunization programmes and detecting and responding rapidly to measles outbreaks in order to mitigate their size and impact.

Report: Measles cases surge worldwide due to inadequate immunization

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Authorities investigating a fatal house fire in Topeka have made an arrest. On Thursday 31-year-old&nbsp;Terica M. Gardner, 31, of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree, Aggravated arson, Aggravated burglary and&nbsp;Arson, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

 Just after 6p.m. Oct. 13, crews from the Topeka Fire Department&nbsp; responded to a reported house fire at 1640 SW Buchanan Street.

First responders found heavy smoke and flames coming from the two-story residence. Firefighters performed a search and found the body of 46-year-old David Blevens on the second floor of the residence who was later pronounced deceased.&nbsp; Crews extinguished the fire.&nbsp;

Investigators determined the cause of this fire was intentionally set, according to Nichols.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731635713438.png" alt="Gardner-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Gardner-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Authorities investigating a fatal house fire in Topeka have made an arrest. On Thursday 31-year-old&nbsp;Terica M. Gardner, 31, of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree, Aggravated arson, Aggravated burglary and&nbsp;Arson, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728296248154.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure> Just after 6p.m. Oct. 13, crews from the Topeka Fire Department&nbsp; responded to a reported house fire at 1640 SW Buchanan Street.First responders found heavy smoke and flames coming from the two-story residence. Firefighters performed a search and found the body of 46-year-old David Blevens on the second floor of the residence who was later pronounced deceased.&nbsp; Crews extinguished the fire.&nbsp;Investigators determined the cause of this fire was intentionally set, according to Nichols.

Woman accused of starting fire that killed Kansas man

Manhattan – In a moment of triumph for the Wildcat community, a one-of-a-kind banner that once graced the storied walls of Ahearn Fieldhouse has returned home after over five decades. Thanks to the dedication and passion of Bobby Sloan, SVP and Director of Marketing at Outdoor Bank, the banner was recently recovered following weeks of extensive research, negotiations, and careful handling, according to a media release from K-State

This unique, hand-painted piece prominently features Willie the Wildcat and bears witness to countless moments of school pride, sports triumphs, and even history itself.

The banner holds a special place in the hearts of Wildcats, having been present during some of the most memorable events in Ahearn Fieldhouse's history. Among these, the banner stood as a silent witness to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final collegiate address before his tragic assassination in 1968—a moment that resonates deeply with both the Manhattan community and the broader national conversation.

 “Bringing this banner back to Manhattan is about more than just preserving a piece of history,” Sloan explained. “It’s about reuniting generations of Wildcats and celebrating the legacy that has defined Kansas State University for so many. This banner embodies the spirit of resilience, pride, and community that defines the Wildcat family.” 

Sloan, known for his role in leading Outdoor Bank’s commitment to community and connection, felt compelled to take on the search after hearing of the banner’s storied past. Fueled by his love for history and his determination to bring this relic home, Sloan embarked on a journey that spanned weeks, culminating in the banner’s return to Manhattan. The rediscovered piece represents more than memorabilia; it is a symbol of pride for alumni, students, and community members alike. 

The reappearance of the banner has ignited excitement and nostalgia among Wildcats, who now have a tangible connection to the cherished moments of Ahearn Fieldhouse’s past. “This is more than just a banner—it’s a thread that connects us to the stories of those who came before, and it inspires us to continue building a legacy worth honoring,” Sloan shared. “It’s a reminder of how our past continues to shape our future.” 

The banner was unveiled during half-time of the K-State vs LSU men’s basketball game Thursday night.

Manhattan – In a moment of triumph for the Wildcat community, a one-of-a-kind banner that once graced the storied walls of Ahearn Fieldhouse has returned home after over five decades. Thanks to the dedication and passion of Bobby Sloan, SVP and Director of Marketing at Outdoor Bank, the banner was recently recovered following weeks of extensive research, negotiations, and careful handling, according to a media release from K-State<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">He’s home. <a href="https://t.co/z05qbw8h39">pic.twitter.com/z05qbw8h39</a>&mdash; K-State Athletics (@kstatesports) <a href="https://twitter.com/kstatesports/status/1857259861433880691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>This unique, hand-painted piece prominently features Willie the Wildcat and bears witness to countless moments of school pride, sports triumphs, and even history itself.The banner holds a special place in the hearts of Wildcats, having been present during some of the most memorable events in Ahearn Fieldhouse's history. Among these, the banner stood as a silent witness to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final collegiate address before his tragic assassination in 1968—a moment that resonates deeply with both the Manhattan community and the broader national conversation. “Bringing this banner back to Manhattan is about more than just preserving a piece of history,” Sloan explained. “It’s about reuniting generations of Wildcats and celebrating the legacy that has defined Kansas State University for so many. This banner embodies the spirit of resilience, pride, and community that defines the Wildcat family.” Sloan, known for his role in leading Outdoor Bank’s commitment to community and connection, felt compelled to take on the search after hearing of the banner’s storied past. Fueled by his love for history and his determination to bring this relic home, Sloan embarked on a journey that spanned weeks, culminating in the banner’s return to Manhattan. The rediscovered piece represents more than memorabilia; it is a symbol of pride for alumni, students, and community members alike. The reappearance of the banner has ignited excitement and nostalgia among Wildcats, who now have a tangible connection to the cherished moments of Ahearn Fieldhouse’s past. “This is more than just a banner—it’s a thread that connects us to the stories of those who came before, and it inspires us to continue building a legacy worth honoring,” Sloan shared. “It’s a reminder of how our past continues to shape our future.” The banner was unveiled during half-time of the K-State vs LSU men’s basketball game Thursday night.

Lost banner from Ahearn Fieldhouse returned to Manhattan

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/tadeoruizsandoval/">TADEO RUIZ SANDOVAL</a>

Health care providers say they are seeing a drastic increase in the number of emergency contraceptive kit requests by Missourians since the election.

The Missouri Family Health Council helps fund the state’s reproductive health care through Title X, a federal grant. It has a program that allows Missourians to order emergency contraception kits via mail for free.

The kits include an emergency contraception pill, condoms and sexual health information. On a typical day, the council sees around 17 requests for emergency contraception kits. Since last Monday, that number has ballooned to over 90 requests a day.

While passing Amendment 3 safeguards abortion rights in Missouri for now, Michelle Trupiano, the council’s executive director, said people are still worried about access to reproductive health care under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1685626036011.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/tadeoruizsandoval/">TADEO RUIZ SANDOVAL</a>Health care providers say they are seeing a drastic increase in the number of emergency contraceptive kit requests by Missourians since the election.The Missouri Family Health Council helps fund the state’s reproductive health care through Title X, a federal grant. It has a program that allows Missourians to order emergency contraception kits via mail for free.The kits include an emergency contraception pill, condoms and sexual health information. On a typical day, the council sees around 17 requests for emergency contraception kits. Since last Monday, that number has ballooned to over 90 requests a day.While passing Amendment 3 safeguards abortion rights in Missouri for now, Michelle Trupiano, the council’s executive director, said people are still worried about access to reproductive health care under the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.While Trump has said he would not “impose restrictions on birth control or other contraceptives,” his campaign has yet to formally announce a plan.“What this shows us is people are scared,” Trupiano said. “They’re scared of what the future holds, they’re scared about access to contraception, and they’re doing what they can now in order to protect themselves.”Missourians are not the only ones feeling this way. Nationally, states have reported higher numbers of kit requests, such as Oklahoma, Missouri’s western neighbor.Laura Bellis is the executive director of Take Control Initiative, one of Oklahoma’s Title X grantees. The day after the election, they saw over 1,000 people requesting kits; the following day that number doubled.Bellis said some parents would request kits for their children because they were not sure how accessible it would be in the future for them.“This is the last line of defense if you’re trying to prevent a pregnancy,” Bellis said. “People are like, ‘I need to have every resource.’ So we’re seeing people panic buying like what you saw during the pandemic with masks or toilet paper.”The confusion surrounding reproductive health care in Missouri could make it harder for people to access the care they need, said Mallory Schwarz, executive director of Abortion Action Missouri.“That fear is a barrier in and of itself,” Schwarz said. “One of the most important things that individuals and local organizations can do is to spread accurate information.”Abortion Action Missouri is a reproductive health advocacy group that canvassed in support of Amendment 3. Amendment 3’s journey to reach the ballot was perilous. The measure narrowly passed a 4-3 ruling from the Missouri Supreme Court, which considered removing it from the ballot.The group said the challenges Amendment 3 faced could show potential pushback from the state for reproductive health care.“The pattern is the people speak and our government tries to over undermine the will of the people,” Schwarz said.Her team, alongside other providers, suggest users check the expiration date on pill packages and communicate with their doctor to learn what the best options are for each person. The contraception pills typically have a life span of four years, after which they become ineffective.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/elections/missouri-sees-an-uptick-in-emergency-contraception-requests-following-election-day/article_3a04499a-a204-11ef-aa38-6fed65cc03a0.html#tncms-source=Top%20Story" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;