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WSU student allegedly assaulted for wearing MAGA hat

Pullman, WALocal News

A former Washington State University instructor, Patrick Mahoney, and Gerald Hoff face fourth-degree assault charges after an incident involving a student wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat. The alleged victim, Jay Sani, claimed that Mahoney ripped off his hat and attacked him while they were walking down Colorado Street in Pullman on February 28. Sani described the assault on Facebook, stating he was thrown to the ground and kicked multiple times, resulting in visible injuries. The Pullman Police Department confirmed the arrests of Mahoney and Hoff later that night. Following these allegations, Mahoney has been suspended from teaching and removed from the university's faculty page.

The incident has ignited conversations about political expression on college campuses, with conservative media outlets like Fox News and Turning Point USA covering the story. Sani also spoke about the event during a visit from conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, further amplifying the discussion. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding political symbols and free speech in educational environments.

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Pullman, WALocal News

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Pullman, WALocal News

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Pullman, WALocal News

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.