The Mennonite population being affected by a measles outbreak in West Texas is part of a larger, loosely affiliated group of churches worldwide with varied beliefs and leadership structures — and with sometimes strained or distant relations with health officials and other public authorities.

Measles was considered to be eliminted in the U.S. in 2000, thanks to vaccine developments. But vaccination rates have dropped since the covid pandemic began.

When asked about the measles outbreak and death, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said “it’s not unusual, we have measles outbreaks every year.”

The Texas Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 26 on Wednesday, seeking to provide substantial pay raises for teachers statewide. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who presides over the Senate, emphasized his support for well-compensated teachers and reiterated that he views teaching as a profession.

Teachers with three and five years of experience would qualify for raises under Senate Bill 26. Instructors in smaller school districts would get bigger pay bumps.

In 2024, the average salary for Texas teachers was $62,500, with rural teachers frequently earning less. Now, the bill moves to the Texas House for consideration.

Tyler Nickel scored 21 points on a career-high seven 3-pointers and Vanderbilt held on to upset No. 12 Texas A&M 86-84 in the Southeastern Conference nailbiter in College Station, Texas, on Wednesday.

Texas A&M looks to break its nine-game road skid with a victory against Vanderbilt. Thursday's meeting is the first of the season between the squads.