By ELLE HUTCHINSON Barton County Media Consultant

During this week’s meeting, the Barton County Commission proudly recognized employees for their continued service to the county, honoring individuals who have reached milestone anniversaries of five, ten, fifteen, twenty-five, thirty, and thirty-five years.

Employee Engagement Committee President Judith Castro introduced the honorees and thanked them for their commitment to serving Barton County residents. The annual recognition highlights employees from a wide range of departments and roles, reflecting the many ways county staff contribute to daily operations, public safety, and essential services.

Employees recognized for five years of service included Dodger Beckman, John Stettinger, Breauna Martinez, Glennda French, Corky Rankin, Stacey Davis, and Renee Kasselman.

Those recognized for 10 years of service were Phil Kepka, Casey Rowland, Gina Werth, Paige Volkel, Aaron Smith, Ethan Bretz, Steve Billinger, and Mark Cooper.

Jennifer Hamby was recognized for 15 years of service, Mike Daniel for 25 years, Dena Popp for 30 years, and Bj Wooding and Bev Schmeidler for an impressive 35 years of service.

Together, these employees represent decades of experience, dedication, and service to Barton County. Many have worked through emergencies, changing conditions, and evolving responsibilities, often behind the scenes, to ensure County services remain reliable and responsive. The Commission expressed its sincere appreciation to each honoree, recognizing that Barton County’s success is built on the commitment, professionalism, and care demonstrated by its employees every day.

Barton County honors employees for years of dedicated service

Great Bend Economic Development held a question-and-answer session with Great Bend Chamber members Wednesday night. Executive Director Jason Kuilan will again answer questions from the public at Dry Lake Brewing in downtown Great Bend, from 5-7 p.m. on Feb. 11. Kuilan provided the following questions and answers from Wednesday's session.&nbsp;

Q: How did the Innovation Center originate? A:&nbsp;Great Bend Economic Development has built strong partnerships with the State of Kansas through two successful initiatives. The first is the Ignite program, a Shark Tank style competition supporting entrepreneurs across Barton County, awarding up to $95,000 in startup capital and earning statewide recognition and continued sponsorship from Network Kansas. The second is Bright Beginnings, our childcare center supported by the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund, which reached near capacity in its first year and now maintains waitlists. Based on this success, the Kansas Children’s Cabinet Trust Fund invited GBED in late 2023 to apply for the Capital Projects Fund Accelerator Grant to develop a community center. Great Bend was selected as one of only 10 sites statewide. Given our entrepreneurial focus, the project evolved into what is now the Innovation Center.

Q: What is the purpose of the Innovation Center? A:&nbsp;The Innovation Center is designed to support entrepreneurship and small business development while also providing healthcare, education, workforce development, and childcare-related programming. By working alongside partners such as healthcare providers, education institutions, childcare organizations, and local businesses, the Center will serve as a shared community resource that delivers lasting economic and social impact.

Q: What is the long-term vision for the Innovation Center? A:&nbsp;The Center’s education and workforce programming is intentionally aligned with the industries that drive Barton County’s economy. These include agriculture, particularly water, soil, sustainability, and technology. Transportation (aviation, drones, automotive, and pipelines (energy) will also be a heavy focus for the center. Lastly, technology at all levels, from basic computer skills to advanced AI and machine learning will drive educational and workforce developmental opportunities for all ages. The goal is to create a space that supports learning, innovation, and workforce readiness for all ages.

Q: Why was construction paused? A:&nbsp;The project began with a $4.3 million grant from the Kansas Children’s Cabinet Trust Fund, with a total construction budget of approximately $7 million. After securing an additional $1.2 million, GBED faced a decision: delay construction and risk losing awarded funds and potentially the entire project or proceed with the project while continuing to fundraise the remaining gap. The organization chose to move forward with a focused plan and line of sight to secure the additional funding needed. Shortly thereafter, staff turnover disrupted fundraising momentum. When I began as Executive Director approximately five months later, I announced the pause in construction to stabilize the project, clarify the vision, address misinformation, and rebuild community confidence. Since then, we have launched a new website, partnered with the Golden Belt Community Foundation on fundraising, met one-on-one with businesses, and have actively shared the project’s purpose through public events and the media.

Q: How will the remaining project funding be completed? A:&nbsp;Since launching the fundraising campaign, we have secured approximately $400,000 in pledges and continue to engage businesses, individuals, and funding partners. We are confident this gap will continue to close, allowing construction to resume on time to meet all funding partner deadlines.

Q: How will the Innovation Center operate financially once complete? A:&nbsp;Operations will be supported through multiple revenue streams, including rent-paying tenants, grants, state-sponsored programs, and private partnerships. We are also working with multiple partners that can provide operational capital. Continued fundraising will allow flexibility in allocating funds appropriately while honoring all grant restrictions. Fiscal responsibility and compliance with funding terms remain a top priority.

Q: How is Great Bend Economic Development structured and governed? A:&nbsp;GBED operates with two full-time staff and is governed by a seven-member board of directors representing diverse community leadership. GBED also oversees Advancing Barton County Childcare and Great Bend Alive. Financial oversight is supported by the Golden Belt Community Foundation as fiscal sponsor, an independent accountant, legal counsel, payroll services, and multiple marketing partners, ensuring strong checks and balances.

Q: How will similar challenges be avoided in the future? A:&nbsp;The Innovation Center highlighted the need for gap funding safeguards. Moving forward, GBED will work toward establishing an independent economic development investment fund that can provide financial guarantees for community projects. This structure would allow projects to proceed on time while ensuring a safety net to complete them responsibly.

Q: What are GBED’s current priorities? A:&nbsp;Current priorities include completing Innovation Center funding, finalizing its operational plan, strengthening organizational subcommittees, continuing entrepreneurship programs such as ICE-House, Co.Starters, and Ignite, and supporting community events like Big Bend Bash and Fridays on Forest.

Q: What are the long-term priorities for Economic Development? A:&nbsp;Long-term priorities focus on sustainable, data-driven growth. While job creation and quality-of-life investments remain important, addressing housing across income levels is critical to supporting population growth and economic stability. GBED is committed to working collaboratively to ensure Barton County continues moving forward responsibly and strategically.

Q: If someone is looking to help fund the Innovation Center what should they do? A:&nbsp;Reach out and let us know! We are accepting donations that are being held at the Golden Belt Community Foundation. No funds will be released to resume construction until we have all the funds needed to complete the project. Additionally, we are offering sponsorship opportunities starting at $25K for spaces within the center and would love to discuss those opportunities on a 1on1 basis.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Great Bend Eco Devo director provides answers questions from Chamber members

Panther Sports Powered by:&nbsp;Equity Bank. Sponsored in part by:&nbsp;GB Tarp Company, Advance Truck &amp; Diesel, Keller Real Estate &amp; Insurance, Innovative Livestock Services, The Fieldhouse, Marmie Auto Group, Magna Dry Cleaning Services, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Rec, Rosenberg Family Dentistry, Chris Ramsey - Shelter Insurance, Mitch Haney &amp; Associates, Farmer's Bank &amp; Trust, Scott's Welding Service, Kern Floor Service, Nex-Tech, Comfort Pro, The University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, People's Bank &amp; Trust, Sutherlands, The 10th Street Eyecare Center, Stone Sand Company and Stone Waste Management, Advanced Therapy &amp; Sports Medicine, Damm Pipe Testing, Great Bend Redi Mix, Insurance Planning, Edward Jones, Delgado's Mexican Restaurant, Mpire Realty, American Plains Coop, Cody Crook - Red Cedar Land Company, GB Tires, Animal Medical Center, Barton Community College, Dr. Chad Ohnmacht DDS, &amp; Watkins Calcara Chartered.

Additional Information: Great Bend Panther fans have a new way to follow their teams this year.&nbsp; The service features a live video stream of every home and away game, complete with the familiar B1043 The Point radio play-by-play patched in. Fans will be able to watch the action live from anywhere or go back and re-watch games at their convenience.

Cost: Fans may purchase access for $10 per game or buy a $100 season pass for the entire school year. A portion of the proceeds from the video stream will be donated back to USD 428, helping support Panther students and programs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH: Panther Basketball @ Liberal TONIGHT

For nearly six decades, the Kansas Wheat recipe book has been a tradition of consumer education, with editions dating back to the mid-1960s. Produced to help families confidently prepare wheat-based foods at home, the books have evolved alongside changes in nutrition science, baking practices, and consumer tastes, while continuing their intended purpose of connecting Kansas wheat farmers with the people who use their product. That legacy is now being preserved at Hale Library, Kansas State University’s library, assuring the full catalog of this outreach effort remains available for future study and reference.

Produced by the Kansas Wheat Commission, the recipe books date back to the 1960s and have served as a trusted resource for families learning to bake with Kansas-grown wheat. Distributed nationwide, the booklets combined tested recipes with practical baking guidance and science-based nutrition information.

Over time, the publications became more than collections of recipes. They documented how wheat foods, consumer trends and nutrition messaging evolved, while maintaining a direct link between Kansas farmers and the people using their product every day.

That connection is especially visible through the work of Cindy Falk. Falk began working with the Kansas Wheat Commission in 1985 after receiving a phone call inviting her to serve as a volunteer Speak for Wheat spokesperson. Beginning in 1988, she contributed to 38 editions of the Kansas Wheat recipe booklet, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1966. Under her influence, the booklets became a widely recognized Kansas Wheat resource, distributed across Kansas and nationally to represent wheat farmers and Kansas agriculture while helping families feel confident using wheat foods at home.

Now housed within the Morse Department of Archives and Special Collections at Kansas State University, the collection shifts from a kitchen staple to a research resource. The department serves as the official repository for Kansas State University records and a center of research for cookery, Kansas history and the consumer movement. Preserving these recipe books recognizes the role agricultural communications play in forming food knowledge, consumer confidence and understanding of farming practices.

Recipe books often reflect daily life more clearly than formal reports. Ingredient substitutions, preparation tips and seasonal themes capture how families cooked, learned and gathered. For researchers, they offer insight into nutrition education, regional food culture and the communication strategies used to connect producers with consumers over decades.

By archiving the collection, Kansas State University helps safeguard a piece of Kansas agricultural history that began with wheat farmers and ended at kitchen tables across the country. What started as practical guidance for baking bread now acts as a record of how a state’s signature crop was shared, taught and trusted for generations.

﻿Learn more about Kansas wheat outreach and education at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mK593pJwThcCQ10Ygk3yQCSQYCQ9Nl3nlvBAX8gwOUCjyj-e6E6KjAKPsWB34ZzQjkt33XGS6H0DLYfAnLtf-FfdKV15PNKOdTKpbP55PLTWdrTMt95FFjiASnVEcb8322jD7gPgH3d2-PxAlCCXFQ==&amp;c=8gGoqW8izimBz_PqKnHlOozxkeecbFl-qiFn_sfHi7OEaLGv1KYM_Q==&amp;ch=tHtBZJNca8z7ifsFCMCGx4yN1rLWCv-4Wcu9AHXv2IP3mcdFJuDqPQ==">kswheat.com</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Kansas Wheat History archived by Hale Library

Every weekday in our community, a simple knock at the door means more than a hot meal for that resident in need; it means someone checked in on them, and someone cared enough to be there.

And when that knock doesn’t come — someone notices that, too, said Linn Hogg, Meals On Wheels of Barton County director. Meals On Wheels relies on local volunteers to deliver meals to homebound seniors who can’t shop or cook for themselves, and there is an urgent need for more of these caring volunteers to come forward.

“These are neighbors who have worked, raised families, paid taxes, and quietly built the community we enjoy today,” she said. “For many of them, the Meals On Wheels driver is the only person they will see all day.”

But currently, the number of seniors needing meals outpaces the number of volunteers available to deliver them, she said.

“We have current routes that need volunteers and seniors on the waiting list for routes that need to be started,” Hogg said.

“It’s easy to assume ‘someone else will do it,’” Hogg said. “But when everyone thinks that, meals sit waiting, and seniors sit alone, wondering if they were forgotten. The need doesn’t disappear but the service gap grows wider.”

Volunteering with&nbsp;Meals On Wheels of Barton County&nbsp;doesn’t require special skills or a big time commitment, she said. Routes are short and schedules are flexible.

“What matters most is being there.” she said. “If you’re able to give even an hour a week, you can make sure a neighbor eats—and knows they still matter.”

Hogg said, “the truth is simple: If we don’t deliver the meals, no one else will.”

To learn more or sign up to volunteer, contact Volunteers In Action of Central Kansas at 620-792-1614.

Barton County Meals On Wheels needs volunteers to ‘show up’

PAWNEE COUNTY- Michael EG Reynolds, 69 of Larned, appeared Thursday afternoon before Senior District Judge Nancy Parrish of Topeka, Kansas, to determine whether he is competent to stand trial, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett. The hearing was conducted via video teleconferencing.

After hearing the testimony of the court-assigned forensic evaluator and arguments of counsel, Judge Parrish found Reynolds not competent to stand trial. Based on this finding, the Court then entered an order directing the Defendant to be committed to the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) for up to ninety (90) days for competency restoration treatment.

A five-day Jury Trial was scheduled to commence February 23, 2026. The matter is now stayed until such time as the Court finds the defendant has regained competency.

Under Kansas law, a person is “incompetent to stand trial” when such person is charged with a crime and, because of mental illness or defect is unable: (1) To understand the nature and purpose of the proceedings against such person; or (2) to make or assist in making such person's defense.

Reynolds is charged with one count of Intentional Murder in the Second Degree, one count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and one count of Criminal Possession of a Firearm. The charges stem from a joint investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Coroner Dr. Lyle Noordhoek into the shooting death of Dr. Tomas Garza, 52 of Larned, on March 30, 2024. Reynolds was taken into custody at the scene without incident at the time of the alleged incident.

Rather than the State Security Hospital, which is on the campus of Larned State Hospital, the State anticipates Reynolds will be transferred to Osawatomie State Hospital to receive the court ordered treatment. At the time of his death, Dr. Garza served as the medical supervisor for Larned State Hospital.

Following the hearing, Judge Parrish denied the defendant’s request to reduce the bond finding Reynolds currently poses a danger to himself or others if released. The defendant will remain in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff pending his transfer to a psychiatric facility.

Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett represented the State at the hearing. Reynolds was represented by David McDonald of Platte City, Missouri.

Judge rules on competency of suspect in murder of Larned doctor

Booked Martinez, Laura K. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026TR0006 for Failure to Appear. Bond set at $500.00 Cash or Surety.

Booked in Oxford, Payten on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0042 for Criminal Damage to Property, bond set at $1,000.00 cash or surety.

Booked Estes, Krystal D. on Barton County District Court case #26-121 for Driving While Revoked, and No Headlights; bond set at $2,500.00 Cash or Surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (2/5)

Friday Sunny, with a high near 61. West northwest wind 7 to 14 mph becoming north northeast in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 22 mph. Friday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 29. Northeast wind around 7 mph becoming south southeast after midnight.

Saturday Partly sunny, with a high near 59. South wind 8 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 67. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 38.

Monday Sunny, with a high near 72.

Friday's weather

The last few weeks, I have had a great opportunity to work with several classes of 6th grade students using a 4-H curriculum: Mind Body Whole. There are some highlights of these lessons that are applicable to all of us!

The first week is a focus on mood and stress with a good discussion about how emotions aren’t good or bad, they just are. How we act/react to our emotions is often what gets us into trouble! Students learn and practice “box breathing” as a tool to slow down when things get hectic. Box breathing is a simple technique of taking a deep breath to the count of 4, holding that breath for a count of 4, slowing exhaling to a count of 4, and again holding to a count of 4. This is a technique that all of us can use.

Getting good sleep is the focus of Lesson 2. It includes the need of sleep for physical and mental health. Students are encouraged to develop a healthy bedtime routine which often includes keeping their phone out of their room or turning off notifications to minimize interruptions. An important activity as part of this lesson is to practice a “body scan” which involves laying quietly with eyes closed while focusing on and creating tension in your body as you take a deep breath; as you exhale, you intentionally release the tension. We start with toes, move to feet/ankles, and on through the body. By focusing your mind on the deep breathing and tension/release, the level of calm and stillness is so evident in the room!

This past week, we added the impacts of diet on our mood, stress level, and sleep. In addition to a general discussion of food and nutrition, we had good discussion about limiting the amount of sugars and caffeine in our diet, especially later in the day. I was really impressed by the wide variety of vegetables that the students eat and challenged them to try one new food this week. A good takeaway for all of us is slowing down when we eat while trying to eat from all the food groups. A funny discussion involved that there are some foods that we just don’t care for but we should try them from time to time or try them cooked a different way. I do have several volunteers to eat any pickles that I end up with!

This week, we will wrap up by adding the impacts of exercise to our mood/emotions and stress level. Different exercises work for different people. I am not a runner but I do appreciate a good stress walk. Students will work together to develop a workout plan to make sure that they are getting their 60 minutes of exercise at least three days per week. Changing up the types of exercise is also important. While many of the students I have been working with are involved in a sport, we discuss that playing with or walking your dog counts as does a good set of stretches, jumping jacks, or push-ups. No equipment needed! I’ll be doing some toe touches and lacing up my shoes for a walk.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is a Family and Community Wellness Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other K-State Extension resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

BERAN: Mind Body Whole - Whole body wellness is important

The Barton Community College Library will team up with the English department and Barton’s literary annual “Prairie Ink” staff to host a “Writer’s Workshop” from 6–7:30 p.m. Feb. 19 in the Cavanaugh Room of the Learning Resource Center and via Zoom at&nbsp;<a href="https://bartonccc-edu.zoom.us/j/2440236758">https://bartonccc-edu.zoom.us/j/2440236758</a>.

Participants will work with “Prairie Ink” editors and Learning Resource staff to learn about how to appeal to a specific audience and cater to their needs while still maintaining the integrity, purpose, and voice of their original story and idea. &nbsp;The event is open to students, faculty, staff, and community members.

For more information, email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:PrairieInk@bartonccc.edu">PrairieInk@bartonccc.edu</a>&nbsp;or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://prairieink.bartonccc.edu/">prairieink.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Community College to host writing workshop on Feb. 19

Earlier this week, staff members from the City of Great Bend Utilities Department completed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 30 Construction Training across the water distribution, wastewater collections and wastewater treatment plant divisions. This course is an advanced supervisory level safety certification that provides in-depth instruction on hazard recognition, regulatory compliance and injury prevention.

“Utility work involves inherent hazards that require constant awareness and discipline,” said Director of Public Utilities Darren Doonan. “This training reinforces our commitment to employee safety, regulatory compliance and professional development. Investing in our staff directly translates to safer operations and more reliable service for our residents.”

Training was administered on-site by the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and covered electrical safety, confined space entry, trenching and excavation, lockout and tagout, personal protective equipment, hazard communication and emergency response. KDOL staff also conducted walk-throughs of the utilities' headquarters and wastewater treatment plant to observe operations and identify opportunities for additional safety improvements. This allowed a focus on workplace layout, equipment use, signage and procedural controls, and provided feedback to further strengthen existing safety practices.

By hosting the training in-house, the utilities department ensured consistent instruction across all divisions while minimizing service disruptions to the community. This approach also reinforced a unified safety culture across water and wastewater operations.

The utilities department continues to prioritize proactive training and adherence to state and federal safety standards. Ongoing education and certification programs are a key component of the city’s long-term strategy to protect employees and maintain critical infrastructure.

The city is looking to add more personnel to the utilities department and offers a clear career progression path with corresponding wage increase when certifications are obtained. Service Person I entry positions start at $18.00 an hour while applicants with a CDL earn an extra dollar per hour. For those interested, please apply online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tinyurl.com/UtilitiesApplication?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExb1JoMXhFS3RQQzhiSGM3ZHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7Llci2BlFZKWYD81_RomHbPs8e7EyIOQxKN3FNsDWQDrzjkqIu4IP3LQFxhw_aem_H58MC2rACz9E7BlI9Mv5HA">https://tinyurl.com/UtilitiesApplication</a>.&nbsp;For questions, please contact the human resources department at 620-793-4111.&nbsp;

City of Great Bend utilities staff completes KDOL led OSHA 30 training 

Now is the time to recognize those who go above and beyond! You can nominate a School Hero! On the fourth Tuesday of each month, Eagle Media will select a Hero to recognize! The winner will also receive $500! Nominate a School Hero is presented by: <a href="https://opikan.com/">OPI</a> (Office Products Incorporated) &amp; Golden Belt Printing.&nbsp;

Any adult who works at a school in Barton County is eligible to be nominated. Admin, Teachers, Para's, Coaches, Maintenance, Cafeteria, etc.

Nominate a School Hero! Presented by: OPI & Golden Belt Printing

Big Bend Custom Engraving, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Redi Mix, Francis Financial, Medial Park Pharmacy, R&amp;R Roofing, Allstaff Chartered, Miller Plastics, Rosencrants Bemis Water Well Service, Great Bend Rec, Jimlo Glass Center, Haz Mat Response

Make a Difference Contest 

- Michael Ryan, head coach of Central Plains Boys Basketball

- Conor Nicholl of Sunflower Sports Solutions

Friday on Sports Day(Watch)

Girls 100:&nbsp;Sophia&nbsp;Bauer&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Zoe&nbsp;Riddle&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;4:34) 105:&nbsp;Genesis&nbsp;Orrantia&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 110:&nbsp;Camdyn&nbsp;Post&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Ashley&nbsp;Vizcarra&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:21) 115:&nbsp;Alexis&nbsp;Luna&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Kayle&nbsp;Baldwin&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:31) 120:&nbsp;Kinsly&nbsp;Stukey&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(For.) 125:&nbsp;Brooklynn&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Juana&nbsp;Perez&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:21) 130:&nbsp;Micah&nbsp;Ellegood&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(For.) 135:&nbsp;Amarrah&nbsp;Turner&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Aly&nbsp;Feil&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;2:52) 140:&nbsp;Shatarah&nbsp;Newton&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(For.) 145:&nbsp;Nayeli&nbsp;Andrade&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Flor&nbsp;Rios&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(TF&nbsp;17-0&nbsp;4:00) 155:&nbsp;Double&nbsp;Forfeit 170:&nbsp;Rydlie&nbsp;Swanson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Yaretzi&nbsp;Rosas&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:23) 190:&nbsp;Aileen&nbsp;Figueroa&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 235:&nbsp;Ingrid&nbsp;Padilla&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.)&nbsp;&nbsp; Boys 106:&nbsp;Lill&nbsp;Osborn&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Charlie&nbsp;Foster&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;4:49) 113:&nbsp;Brian&nbsp;Casas&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Noel&nbsp;Gonzalez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:23) 120:&nbsp;Abel&nbsp;Spencer&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Marco&nbsp;Jimenez&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(TF&nbsp;17-0&nbsp;5:30) 126:&nbsp;Gustavo&nbsp;Sosa&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Logan&nbsp;Turner&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;5:33) 132:&nbsp;Kawika&nbsp;Martinez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Kaiden&nbsp;Nguyen&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(TF&nbsp;19-2&nbsp;4:39) 138:&nbsp;Cal&nbsp;Schartz&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Iovani&nbsp;Chavez&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(TF&nbsp;16-0&nbsp;2:27) 144:&nbsp;Adriel&nbsp;Gomez&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Trevin&nbsp;Maciel&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Dec&nbsp;10-7) 150:&nbsp;Favian&nbsp;Ortega&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Julian&nbsp;Galindo&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:52) 157:&nbsp;Triston&nbsp;Tomlinson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Oscar&nbsp;Pablo&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;3:26) 165:&nbsp;Aiden&nbsp;Stacey&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Bryan&nbsp;Portillo&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(MD&nbsp;12-0) 175:&nbsp;Zayden&nbsp;Norez&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Cruz&nbsp;Folk-Robinson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(MD&nbsp;19-7) 190:&nbsp;Landry&nbsp;Fitzgerald&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brady&nbsp;Mendez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:55) 215:&nbsp;Trenton&nbsp;Kern&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Emilio&nbsp;Sandoval&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:26) 285:&nbsp;Josue&nbsp;Bustamante&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Elder&nbsp;Ramirez&nbsp;(LIHS)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;5:56)(LIHS&nbsp;unsportsmanlike&nbsp;-1.0)&nbsp;

Great Bend Girls Wrestling 42, Liberal 35/Great Bend Boys Wrestling 37, Liberal 36

The Barton Community College wrestling team closed out the regular season at home Thursday night inside the Fleske Fieldhouse, splitting a pair of Jayhawk Conference duals with an opening 28-26 victory over Neosho County Community College before falling 41-9 to No. 11 Cowley College in its lone home date of the season.

Individually,&nbsp;Brennen Pfannenstiel&nbsp;(149 pounds) and&nbsp;Logan Buchanan&nbsp;(285 pounds) led the Cougars, each posting perfect 2-0 nights on the mat. Pfannenstiel opened the night with a fall in the Neosho County dual before adding a decision against Cowley, while Buchanan clinched Barton's victory over Neosho County with a 12-0 major decision in the final bout before capping the evening with a fall against Cowley.

The results marked Barton's lone league dual victory, as the Cougars concluded the dual season 1-6 in conference play and 3-18 overall. Neosho County finished the year 0-7 in league action and 2-12 overall, while Cowley capture the Jayhawk Conference title, closing conference play 7-0 and the season 14-3 overall.

With the regular season complete, Barton now shifts its focus to postseason action next Saturday at the NJCAA South Central District Championships in Pratt, Kansas.

Recap vs Neosho County Barton opened the night with a 28-26 victory over Neosho County, pulling out the decision on the final bout of the dual. After the Panthers struck first at 125,&nbsp;Shane Todd&nbsp;(133) answered with a 2:31 fall, while Pfannenstiel (149) gave the Cougars a narrow 12-11 edge through four bouts with a 1:52 pin.

A pair of Neosho County falls swung the lead back in the middle of the lineup before Barton capitalized on back-to-back forfeit victories by&nbsp;Tyler Gouker&nbsp;(174) and&nbsp;Derek Truman&nbsp;(184) to reclaim a one-point, 24-23 advantage. Wrestling up a weight class at 197,&nbsp;S'Ron Hill&nbsp;nearly erased a late deficit before dropping a 10-7 decision, setting the stage for the finale, where Buchanan sealed the dual with a 12-0 major decision at 285 to left the Cougars to a 28-26 win.

Recap vs No. 11 Cowley In the second dual of the evening, Barton took on No. 11 Cowley College, falling 41-9 to the nationally ranked Tigers. Cowley built an early advantage through the opening three weight classes before Pfannenstiel (149) put the Cougars on the board with a narrow 9-7 decision over Ryker Agee.

The Tigers added separation through the middle of the match with bonus-point victories and an open weight at 197, before Buchanan (285) capped the dual on a high note, delivering a 1:02 fall in the final tilt of the evening.

The evening also featured Great Bend High School wrestling action, with the GBHS girls picking up a 42-35 victory over Liberal High School, while the GBHS boys capped the night with an exciting 37-36 comeback win, secured on a fall in the closing seconds of the final match.

Cougar wrestling splits Jayhawk Conference home duals to close regular season

The momentum swung Thursday for the Barton Community College softball team, as the Cougars were limited offensively in a pair of run-shortened losses at Division II No. 1-ranked Murray State College.

After collecting 20 hits the previous day in North Texas, Barton managed just four total hits in an 8–0, six-inning loss in the opener followed by a 13–1 setback in five innings to close the south trip.

Now 2–2 on the season, the Cougars return to action Monday with a 3:00 p.m. doubleheader at Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M College in Miami, Oklahoma.

Offensive highlights were limited, with&nbsp;Carly Erpelding&nbsp;and&nbsp;Karter Alvord&nbsp;accounting for Barton's two hits in the opener, while&nbsp;Hailey Horton&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kahli Fields&nbsp;recorded singles in the nightcap. Fields, making her collegiate debut in game two, drove in the Cougars' lone run with a two-out, 2-2 pitch RBI double scoring&nbsp;Grace Hembree's leadoff walk.

In the circle, Barton used three pitchers on the day.&nbsp;Charley Wheeler&nbsp;took the game-one loss while&nbsp;Peyton McCormick&nbsp;was tagged with the loss in the finale as both moved to 1-1 on the year.&nbsp;Ellie Crawford&nbsp;provided relief in both contests, including the final 2.2 innings of the nightcap.

Cougars shut down in twinbill loss at DII top ranked Murray State College

Kansas State Wildcats (10-12, 1-8 Big 12) at TCU Horned Frogs (13-9, 3-6 Big 12)

BOTTOM LINE: Kansas State plays TCU after PJ Haggerty scored 23 points in Kansas State's 95-61 loss to the Iowa State Cyclones.

The Horned Frogs are 9-5 on their home court. TCU ranks seventh in the Big 12 at limiting opponent scoring, allowing 71.5 points while holding opponents to 43.7% shooting.

The Wildcats are 1-8 in conference matchups. Kansas State averages 12.0 turnovers per game and is 4-5 when winning the turnover battle.

TCU scores 78.7 points per game, 1.5 fewer points than the 80.2 Kansas State gives up. Kansas State averages 10.2 more points per game (81.7) than TCU allows (71.5).

The Horned Frogs and Wildcats meet Saturday for the first time in Big 12 play this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: Jayden Pierre averages 1.8 made 3-pointers per game for the Horned Frogs, scoring 10.5 points while shooting 39.0% from beyond the arc. David Punch is averaging 14.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks over the past 10 games.

Haggerty is shooting 48.1% and averaging 23.0 points for the Wildcats. Abdi Bashir Jr. is averaging 2.1 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Horned Frogs: 4-6, averaging 80.2 points, 30.9 rebounds, 16.9 assists, 6.4 steals and 4.8 blocks per game while shooting 46.3% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 79.6 points per game.

TCU hosts Haggerty and Kansas State

AP Utah Utes (9-13, 1-8 Big 12) at Kansas Jayhawks (17-5, 7-2 Big 12)

Lawrence, Kansas; Saturday, 2:30 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Utah takes on No. 11 Kansas after Don McHenry scored 23 points in Utah's 71-63 loss to the Arizona State Sun Devils.

The Jayhawks are 9-1 in home games. Kansas ranks fifth in college basketball with 28.1 defensive rebounds per game led by Flory Bidunga averaging 6.2.

The Utes have gone 1-8 against Big 12 opponents. Utah is 6-11 against opponents over .500.

Kansas is shooting 47.8% from the field this season, 0.5 percentage points higher than the 47.3% Utah allows to opponents. Utah averages 11.1 more points per game (78.8) than Kansas gives up (67.7).

The Jayhawks and Utes square off Saturday for the first time in Big 12 play this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: Melvin Council Jr. is averaging 13.8 points and five assists for the Jayhawks. Darryn Peterson is averaging 17.6 points over the last 10 games.

Terrence Brown is averaging 21.4 points, four assists and 1.6 steals for the Utes. McHenry is averaging 16.9 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Jayhawks: 8-2, averaging 82.3 points, 36.0 rebounds, 15.4 assists, 6.1 steals and 5.5 blocks per game while shooting 50.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 72.7 points per game.

Utes: 1-9, averaging 74.4 points, 29.6 rebounds, 12.7 assists, 5.5 steals and 2.8 blocks per game while shooting 43.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 83.6 points.

No. 11 Kansas hosts Utah after McHenry's 23-point game

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Matthew Stafford edged Drake Maye for the AP NFL Most Valuable Player award on Thursday night in the closest race since Peyton Manning and Steve McNair were co-winners in 2003. Stafford received 24 of 50 first-place votes while Maye got 23. But Maye has a chance to go home this week with a Vince Lombardi Trophy. He leads the New England Patriots against the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl on Sunday.

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — A week after rupturing the ACL in her left knee, Lindsey Vonn opened her chase for Olympic gold at the age of 41 with an aggressive and successful training run down the Olympia delle Tofane downhill course. The American got tight with her line midway down and only narrowly cleared a gate but she led at the final checkpoints, then stood up out of her tuck before the finish. She traded fist pumps and a hug with teammate Breezy Johnson. Vonn tore the ACL a week ago but she plans to race in the the Milan Cortina Games with a large brace on her injured knee. The downhill is Sunday.

MILAN (AP) — An unprecedented four-site, dual-cauldron Winter Olympics opening ceremony replete with references to Italian icons and culture is scheduled to officially start the Milan Cortina Games. The Olympics return to Italy on Friday 20 years after it last hosted them in Turin. This is the most spread-out Olympics in history, with competition venues dotting an area of about a space roughly the size of the entire state of New Jersey. The main hub Friday is in Milan at San Siro soccer stadium. There also will be three other site for athletes to march, some carrying their country’s flag: Cortina in the heart of the Dolomite mountains; Livigno in the Alps; Predazzo in the autonomous province of Trento.

Giannis Antetokounmpo remains with the Milwaukee Bucks as the NBA trade deadline passes. Despite rumors, the Bucks kept the two-time MVP. The deadline saw 28 trades in a week, a 20-year record, with 18 finalized on Thursday. Antetokounmpo, who hasn't played since January due to injury, has expressed his commitment to Milwaukee but wants a competitive team. The Bucks are currently 12th in the Eastern Conference. Other notable trades included Indiana acquiring Ivica Zubac and Minnesota getting Ayo Dosunmu. James Harden and Anthony Davis were among big names traded earlier in the week.

NEW YORK (AP) — Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa are not on Puerto Rico's roster for the World Baseball Classic due to insurance issues. Javy Báez is also absent after a positive marijuana test in 2023. Defending champion Japan features stars like Shohei Ohtani, while the U.S. boasts a strong lineup with Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper. Japan defeated the U.S. in the 2023 final. This year's tournament runs from March 5-17 across multiple cities, with the final in Miami. Insurance policies have impacted player eligibility, affecting major league participation in events like the Olympics.

MILAN (AP) — Madison Chock and Evan Bates skated to a world-best 91.06 points in the rhythm dance section of the team competition at the Milan Cortina Olympics. The American figure skaters are the reigning champions. Cheered on by a crowd that includes Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Chock and Bates secure their team the maximum 10 points. The team event is expected to come down to the U.S. and Japan for the gold medal.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — NBA scoring leader Luka Doncic left the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against Philadelphia with a leg injury. Doncic limped to the locker room with 3:03 left in the first half after apparently hurting his left leg on the far end of the court moments earlier. He didn’t return to the court when the second half began. Doncic leads the league with 33.4 points per game in his first full season with the Lakers. The Slovenian superstar is also second with 8.7 assists. He was also selected for his sixth All-Star game, voted in as a starter.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey released an affidavit backing the NCAA in its eligibility case against Alabama’s Charles Bediako. Bediako is playing in the SEC for the Crimson Tide over two years after signing an NBA two-way contract. Bediako has appeared in four games and has averaged 9.5 points and 5 rebounds in four games since a Tuscaloosa (Alabama) circuit court judge granted him a temporary restraining order allowing him to play. An injunction hearing on Bediako’s case is set for Friday.

KENNEBUNK, Maine (AP) — Three fans who have attended every Super Bowl since 1967 are going again this year. But two of them say it might be their last time. Don Crisman of Maine, Gregory Eaton of Michigan and Tom Henschel of Florida are the last remaining members of the exclusive club of people who have never missed the big game. But this year’s Super Bowl is a little bittersweet: Crisman and Henschel say advancing age and mobility issues mean this is probably their final trip. Eaton, however, plans to keep going as long as he can.

Noah Winter has attended more Super Bowls than Tom Brady, but not as a player. Winter is the mastermind behind the confetti spectacle at the end of each game. His company, Artistry in Motion, has been creating the colorful celebrations in the winning team's colors since the 31st Super Bowl, in 1997. Winter began his career in lighting design and pyrotechnics before transitioning to confetti for Disney and major concerts. The confetti is made from recycled materials and is biodegradable. Winter's team makes sure the confetti drops precisely when the game ends. And in the right colors.

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE Final	Carolina	2	N-Y Rangers	0	 Final	N-Y Islanders	3	New Jersey	1	 Final OT	Ottawa	2	Philadelphia 1 Final	Pittsburgh	5	Buffalo	2	 Final	Washington	4	Nashville	2	 Final	Tampa Bay	6	Florida	1	 Final	Vegas	4	Los Angeles	1

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final	(2)Michigan	110	Penn State	69

Friday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

Friday, February 6 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Great Bend G&amp;B @ Liberal 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Ellinwood 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ Hesston Saturday, February 7 1:00PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Utah @ Kansas 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Barton W&amp;M @ Seward County 7:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - Golden State @ LA Lakers Sunday, February 8 11:30AM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - NY Knicks @ Boston Monday, February 9 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 7:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Arizona @ Kansas Tuesday, February 10 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Dodge City G&amp;B @ Great Bend 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Haven G&amp;B @ Hoisington 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ Scott City Wednesday, February 11 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Fort Hays Tech W&amp;M @ Barton Thursday, February 12 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Friday, February 13 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Garden City G&amp;B @ Great Bend 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Nickerson 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Pratt G&amp;B @ Larned 8:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Rising Stars All-Star Game Saturday, February 14 11:30AM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ Iowa St.&nbsp;(KU Network) 11:30AM 1590/95.5FM - College Basketball - Kansas @ Iowa State (ESPN) 1:45PM KHOK -&nbsp;H.S. Basketball - Ellsworth G&amp;B @ Hoisington 1:45PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Barton W&amp;M @ Garden City 4:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA All Star Saturday Night Sunday, February 15 3:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA All Star Game Monday, February 16 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Tuesday, February 17 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104- H.S. Basketball - Liberal G&amp;B @ Great Bend 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hillsboro G&amp;B @ Hoisington 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Haven G&amp;B @ Larned&nbsp;&nbsp; Wednesday, February 18 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:15PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Barton W&amp;M @ Butler 7:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ Oklahoma St.&nbsp;

Eagle Radio and Hull Broadcasting PBP Schedule

Western Athletic Conference Great Bend @ Liberal Hays @ Dodge City Central Kansas League Larned @ Hesston Hoisington @ Ellinwood Nickerson @ Pratt Smoky Valley @ Haven Hillsboro @ Halstead Central Prairie League St. John @ Central Plains Chase @ Otis-Bison Macksville @ Victoria Ness City @ LaCrosse Kinsley @ Spearville Other Area Games Stafford @ South Barber Pawnee Heights @ Satanta Russell @ Oakley Republic County @ Lyons Bucklin @ Hodgeman County Kiowa County @ Kingman Smith Center @ TMP Little River @ Solomon

Friday Area High School Basketball Schedule (2/6)

Last month, the NFHS recognized 24 individuals as National Coaches of the Year. As one might expect, the accomplishments of these high school coaches are extraordinary, as noted in the press release that was distributed earlier.  

Combined, the recipients of this national honor have led their teams to 108 team championships in the various sports, along with countless runner-up finishes and trips to the state association playoffs. They have been rewarded with numerous “Coach of the Year’ awards within their states and have led hundreds of athletes to individual titles.

The success they’ve enjoyed on the fields and courts is remarkable, but comments about their roles as education-based coaches are even more telling as to why they were selected.

Jay Anderson has built a dominant boys soccer program at Missoula Hellgate High School in Montana with eight state titles. In the past 15 years, his teams have lost only 23 games, but Anderson views success through a different lens.

“Success in my program isn't measured by stats, but by the athlete's character and the positive impact they have as students, teammates and citizens,” Anderson said. “Ultimately, my goal is to help these young adults become good human beings on and off the field, equipping them with the life skills necessary for success long after their high school playing days are over.”

Beyond the daily coaching duties and helping students achieve athletic success, many education-based coaches involve team members in community projects to broaden their perspectives.

Dan Bledsoe, the National Boys Swimming and Diving Coach of the Year from Western Albemarle High School in Crozet, Virginia, has led his teams to nine Virginia High School League state titles in just 16 years. Away from the pool, however, giving back is at the core of his program.       

“Athletes volunteer with Special Olympics, community events and park projects, learning the importance of service, sacrifice and contributing to the greater good,” Bledsoe said. “By connecting these experiences to broader life contexts, we equip athletes to navigate the demands of adulthood with confidence, integrity and resilience.”

Helping others is also at the heart of Laurie Updike-Kaup’s philosophy. Updike-Kaup, who has led Marcellus High School to four New York State Public High School Athletic Association state girls soccer championships, has traveled multiple times with her teams to hurricane-ravaged areas to help rebuild homes, including six visits to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.

Jamey Spartz, girls volleyball coach at Sandra Day O’Connor High School, knows all about victories. Remarkably, in the past 10 years, her teams are 133-10 and have won four consecutive Arizona Interscholastic Association state championships and 59 consecutive matches dating to 2021. 

However, while those wins are nice, Spartz’s goal is to create a positive and supportive environment where players take ownership of their growth, strive for excellence on the court and in the classroom, and gain confidence through every challenge. 

“I am passionate about guiding young athletes to recognize their potential and develop essential life skills such as determination, discipline, passion, work ethic, teamwork, leadership and resilience,” Spartz said.

These are but a few of the individuals selected for national honors in 2024-25 – all of whom have positively impacted student-athletes for many years.

It is a highlight of the year when the NFHS recognizes individuals who have devoted their lives to coaching high school sports. Many of us can look back fondly and remember those men and women who were a key part of our high school years. Not only did they help us in our particular sports, more importantly they helped us navigate that important stretch of our lives.

We salute this year’s award recipients – and all high school coaches – for their commitment to our nation’s youth.

National Coaches of the Year Measure Success in Multiple Ways

Pete Felten, limestone sculptor from Hays, who has been carving Kansas limestone for nearly 70 years, died this week in Hays. He was 92.

Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran issued a statement on Felten's passing.

“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Pete Felten, a native of Hays and a talented artist and sculptor whose work captured the beauty and spirit of Kansas. Pete devoted his life to Kansas art and history, and he served our country in the United States Navy before returning to Hays. To many, Pete was a symbol of Kansas, and he was even depicted as a character in the Western novel, ‘The Last Cattle Drive,’ by Robert Day.

“At 24, he first began to sculpt, a skill he would continue for nearly 70 years, creating landmarks, statues and monuments to honor our special way of life in Kansas. Today, his work can be found across our state: in the Kansas State Capitol, home to his statues of famous Kansans, near historic Fort Hays where his iconic “Monarch of the Plains” monument can be seen and in numerous other locations throughout Kansas. In my office in Washington, D.C., I have one of his pieces – a sculpture of a Kansas bison.

“Pete will forever be a part of Hays history, and his legacy will live on in the sculptures he crafted to represent the state he loved. My prayers are with his loved ones and friends in this difficult time as we mourn the passing of a great Kansan.”

On Monday, Governor Laura Kelly and&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) at the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Department of Commerce announced Felten as a Legacy winner of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/kansas-creative-arts-and-industries-commission-kcaic/governors-arts-awards/2026-governors-arts-award-recipients/">2026 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards</a>&nbsp;at its&nbsp;annual&nbsp;ceremony at the Docking State Office&nbsp;Building in Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The governor's office described more about the amazing work of Pete Felten.

Felten first took hammer and chisel in hand in 1957 after serving in the U.S. Navy (1952-1956), where he visited art museums on the east and west coasts and Hawaii. After briefly attending an art league school in New York, he returned to Hays to pursue his career.&nbsp;

His most prominent work includes the eight-foot-tall, approximately 2,000-pound limestone portraits of Amelia Earhart, William Allen White, Arthur Capper, and Dwight Eisenhower that encircle the Kansas Capitol rotunda, installed in 1981. He won the competitive selection process by creating detailed models of each subject. He chose Silverdale limestone from southeastern Kansas for the Capitol work because he believed it to be “the finest Kansas limestone, uniform and excellent for statues.” Notably, he declined to sign the work, explaining “this is Kansas’ work, not mine.”&nbsp;

Ellis County alone contains more than 28 of his limestone sculptures, including well-known figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Buffalo Bill Cody. His first large commissioned piece was a bust of Buffalo Bill Cody at the Hays Public Library (1961). The “Monarch of the Plains” buffalo sculpture at Fort Hays State Historic Site (completed 1967) stands 8 feet high and 10 feet long on an 8-foot base, starting from a 24-ton stone. In 2024, bronze plaques were finally added next to his capitol sculptures to credit him for the work.&nbsp;

Senator Moran on the passing of Kan. artist, sculptor Pete Felten 

BOURBOUN COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Thursday in Bourbon County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Sportsman 570 ATV driven by Gary M. Foster, 70, Fort Scott, entered Kansas 39 northbound from a field entrance at 1037 K39 Highway.&nbsp; The ATV continued north across the eastbound lane and traveled into the westbound lane. A 2024 Hyundia Elantra driven by Cheryl E. Anderson, 46, Winfield, and the ATV collided near the&nbsp;driveway of 1037 K39 Highway. 

Foster was thrown from the ATV as it rolled into the westbound ditch.

EMS transported Foster to Mercy Hospital in Joplin. EMS also transported&nbsp;Anderson and her 14-year-old female passenger to Freeman Hospital in Fort Scott.&nbsp; Foster was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.

Kansas man hospitalized after car, ATV crash

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s social media post featuring former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates in a jungle was deleted after a backlash from both Republicans and Democrats who criticized the video as racist.

The Republican president’s Thursday night post was deleted Friday and blamed on a staffer after widespread backlash, from civil rights leaders to veteran Republican senators, for its treatment of the nation’s first Black president and first lady. The deletion, a rare admission of a misstep by the White House, came hours after press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed “fake outrage” over the post. After calls for its removal for being racist -- including by Republicans -- the White House said a staffer had posted the video erroneously and it had been taken down.

The post was part of a flurry of social media activity on Trump's Truth Social account that amplified his false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from him, despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-lies-debunked-4fc26546b07962fdbf9d66e739fbb50d">courts around the country</a>&nbsp;and a Trump attorney general from his first term finding no evidence of fraud that could have affected the outcome.

An Obama spokeswoman said the former president, a Democrat, had no response.

Nearly all of the 62-second clip, which was among dozens of Truth Social posts from Trump overnight, appears to be from a conservative video alleging deliberate tampering with voting machines in battleground states as the 2020 presidential votes were tallied. At the 60-second mark is a quick scene of two primates, with the Obamas' smiling faces imposed on them.

Those frames were taken from a separate video, previously circulated by an influential conservative meme maker. It shows Trump as “King of the Jungle” and depicts a range of Democratic leaders as animals, including Joe Biden, who is white, as a jungle primate eating a banana.

“This is from an internet meme video depicting President Trump as the King of the Jungle and Democrats as characters from the Lion King,” Leavitt said by text, referring to Disney's 1994 feature film, which does not feature the range of jungle primates featured in the original video. “Please stop the fake outrage and report on something today that actually matters to the American public.”

By noon, the post had been taken down with responsibility placed on a Trump subordinate.

Trump did not comment on the video in the post, which comes in the first week of Black History Month and days after&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/02/national-black-history-month-2026/">a presidential proclamation</a>&nbsp;that cited “the contributions of black Americans to our national greatness and their enduring commitment to the American principles of liberty, justice, and equality.”

Condemnation across the political spectrum

While it was still up, Trump's post drew condemnation from across the political and ideological spectrum.

The Rev. Bernice King, daughter of the assassinated civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., resurfaced her father's words: “Yes. I'm Black. I'm proud of it. I'm Black and beautiful.” She praised Black Americans as “diverse, innovative, industrious, inventive” and added, “We are beloved of God as postal workers and professors, as a former first lady and president. We are not apes.”

The U.S. Senate's lone Black Republican, Tim Scott of South Carolina, called on Trump to take down the post. “Praying it was fake because it’s the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House,” Scott, who chairs Senate Republicans' midterm campaign arm, said on social media.

Another Republican, Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, is white but represents the state with the largest percentage of Black residents. Wicker called the post “totally unacceptable” and said the president should apologize.

NAACP President Derrick Johnson said in a statement, “Donald Trump’s video is blatantly racist, disgusting, and utterly despicable.”

Johnson asserted that Trump is trying anything to distract from economic conditions and attention on the Jeffrey Epstein case files.

“You know who isn’t in the Epstein files? Barack Obama,” Johnson said. "You know who actually improved the economy as president? Barack Obama.”

Trump and the official White House social media accounts frequently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ai-videos-trump-ice-artificial-intelligence-08d91fa44f3146ec1f8ee4d213cdad31">repost memes and artificial intelligence-generated videos</a>. As Leavitt did Friday, Trump aides typically dismiss critiques and cast the images as humorous.

There is a long history in the U.S. of powerful white figures associating Black people with animals, including apes, in demonstrably false and racist ways. The practice dates back to 18th century cultural racism and pseudo-scientific theories in which white people drew connections between Africans and monkeys to justify the enslavement of Black people in Europe and North America, and later to dehumanize freed Black people as an uncivilized threat to white people.

Thomas Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, wrote in his famous text “Notes on the State of Virginia” that Black women were the preferred sexual partners of orangutans. President Dwight Eisenhower, discussing the desegregation of public schools in the 1950s, once argued that white parents were concerned about their daughters being in classrooms with “big Black bucks.” Obama, as a candidate and president, was featured as a monkey or other primate on T-shirts and other merchandise.

Trump, for his part, has a record of intensely personal criticism of the Obamas and of using incendiary, sometimes racist, rhetoric.

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