By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The United States will celebrate its 250th
birthday this summer. But first, the state of Kansas had a birthday of its own
on Jan. 29. Being an educational facility, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center
makes the most out of Kansas Day each year. Educator Mandy Kern presented more
than 50 Kansas Day programs in the weeks leading up to Jan. 29. KWEC Director
Curtis Wolf said the many state symbols make for a lively program.

“Kansas has designated a lot of state symbols,” he said. “Usually,
these have been things that have been recognized by the Kansas Legislature. It’s
usually some third or fourth-grade class that takes it upon themselves to learn
the process of getting a bill in place, and they take it to their senator or
representative and get that bill going to designate these state symbols.”

Same of the state symbols are more widely known: the western
meadowlark is the state bird, and the ornate box turtle is the state reptile.
The cottonwood was picked as the state tree, and Kansas even has its own state
grass: little bluestem.

“We’ve done a decent job of figuring out these symbols,
because pretty much all of these are things that can be found throughout the
state,” Wolf said. “They’re not something that’s indicative of one certain
area.”

Kansas turned 165 years old this year. Kansas Day,
celebrated for the first time by Paola students in 1877, is now celebrated across
the state each year on Jan. 29. Many celebrations including a performance of
the state song, “Home on the Range.”

KWEC instills state pride with several dozen Kansas Day programs

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 

By MIKE COURSON
 Great Bend Post

One successful grant could cover the cost of Barton County’s
latest expenditure. Tuesday morning, the board of commissioners approved a
$122,400 contract with Hometown Grants for the purpose of grant writing. County
Administrator Matt Patzner presented the issue to the commission.

“In early 2025, the commission hired Hometown Grants to
create up to four grant applications during a 12-month period,” he said. “In August
2025, the contract expanded for additional services for Ellinwood and Hoisington.
As the commission moves forward with project-based economic development
funding, the 2026 agreement has been expanded to include one funding strategy each
for Albert and Pawnee Rock, as well as eight grant applications.”

These grants may include personnel and construction funding
for Central Kansas Community Correction, as well as infrastructure for Claflin,
Ellinwood, and Hoisington. Along with the $10,200 monthly fee for services, the
contract includes a $24,480 contingency budget.

“We need to invest in growth,” said Commissioner Shawn
Hutchinson. “This is an organization that has a good track record of writing successful
grants – grants that are like water grants, sewer treatment grants, things that
cost our cities and our rural water districts a lot of money. Where are they
going to get that money? Well, if we as a county can help oversee the process a
little bit and bring in some heavy-hitter grant writers, and get some of these
projects done, then we’re going to save property taxes in these cities, and
hopefully incentivize growth.”

Last year, Hometown Grants assisted Barton County Rural
Water District No. 2 secure $980,000 in grant funding for the construction of a
new well. The Barton Commission also pledged $65,000 to support the project for
the area that serves several subdivisions north of Great Bend.

Barton Commission signs off on new contract with grant writing firm

Released Chambers, Randy L on Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant #202200485 for Failure to Appear and Great Bend Municipal Court Warrant #202200023 for Failure to Appear. Posted bond of $300.00 Cash Only.

Released Harness, Adavien D. on Barton County District Court case #2026001578 for Interference with LEO. Posted surety Bond of $5,000.00 through Around The clock Bail Bond.

Released Ramirez, Markos A. on case #BT2024CR0243 for Probation Violation after Serving Sentence. End of Sentence, Time Served.

Released West, Michael Jr on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2021CR0152 for Probation Violation by Order of the Court.

Booked Owens, Joseph R. on Barton County District Court case #26-17l for Criminal Threat and Criminal Damage. Bond set at $5,000.00 cash or Surety.

Booked Woods, Kurt A. on Barton County District Court Case #26-116 for Driving While Suspended, Restricted Ignition Interlock, Driving with No Insurance, and Reckless Driving. Bond set at $2,500.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Woods, Kurt A. on Barton County District Court Case #26-Lt6 for Driving While Suspended, Restricted Ignition interlock, Driving with No Insurance, and Reckless Driving by posting $2,500.00 Surety Bond through ACE Bail Bonds.

Released Boese, David L. on Barton County District Court Warrant #2023CR338 for Probation Violation with a surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Henderson, Santia C. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0036 for Criminal Damage to Property. Bond set at $5,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Henderson, Santia C. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0036 for Criminal Damage to Property by&nbsp;posting $5,000.00 Surety Bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (2/4)

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 67. West wind 10 to 16 mph becoming north northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph. Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 37. West wind 7 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph.

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.

Thursday's weather

The Kansas Small Business Development Center (Kansas SBDC) network demonstrated strong statewide impact in 2025, helping Kansas entrepreneurs start businesses, create and retain jobs, and strengthen local economies through hands-on advising, training, and access to capital.

Between Oct. 1, 2024, and Sept. 30, 2025, the Kansas SBDC supported 2,583 small businesses through one-on-one advising and reached more than 4,100 Kansans through 281 training events. These efforts translated into measurable economic outcomes across urban and rural communities statewide.

2025 Kansas SBDC Impact Highlights:

In total, Kansas SBDC assistance helped small businesses access nearly $54 million in capital, providing entrepreneurs with the resources needed to start, grow, and sustain their operations.

“These numbers represent more than economic output, they reflect real Kansas businesses, real jobs, and real communities strengthened by smart investment in small business support,” said Dan Lara, State Director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center. “The Kansas SBDC delivers a strong return on investment by helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions, access capital responsibly, and build businesses that contribute to long-term economic stability across our state.”

Kansas SBDC advisors provide no-cost, confidential consulting to small business owners at every stage — from idea development and startup to growth, succession planning, and capital readiness. Services are delivered through a statewide network of centers and outreach locations, ensuring access for entrepreneurs in rural, urban, and underserved communities.

“The 2025 impact report highlights the essential role the Kansas SBDC plays in driving Kansas’ economy. Facilitating nearly $54 million in capital and supporting the retention of more than 5,000 jobs is a testament to the power of this statewide partnership,” said Tisa Mason, President of Fort Hays State University. “We are honored to serve as the host institution for this network, working alongside dedicated partners across the state, to ensure small business owners have the guidance they need to succeed.”

The U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Kansas, funding partners, and community stakeholders play a critical role in sustaining this impact by supporting programs that strengthen Kansas’ small business ecosystem.

For more information about Kansas SBDC services and statewide impact, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqkJPq7djzb4x3NlSri-2BP7RZrkMwj5RR8rYG5VSEFAbeQsI-e_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpcPvgqL1YSGxLdnzWi-2FgE03iXW1sCNa2SzmMys1WQa7mLdhKFWOe4217jnJBR9Jv2ACfwJBBOFHeBQ-2BUEc4-2Bnitl6uRV78lwfbTgx4tanyE6YFyH7EjiDEAd37s506rF3ouIn-2FTeHoZw8SfovCK9maD0BtbTZoGJSD8wuYsLS4z1B6safvmA8UU9KD5pE-2B7uN194NJIr5kXpuVaM83j-2BMEqmhIbVOETzerXbe0ggIoQukdOpohCh-2F058vTqCq3G-2FJcRsYXkmfEDyTFtdQJkU1X2ziaWM6gdsVbvNo5vknFmZ8k-2FsoZ-2FKl5e0Ft-2BwXYb-2FlkLLRit59uMGFDEXy0q23-2BQ">www.kansassbdc.net</a>. To view a copy of the Kansas SBDC’s annual report, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqkJPq7djzb4x3NlSri-2BP7RYXJlmO1akUM7pMMmhcZKMYouR1_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpcPvgqL1YSGxLdnzWi-2FgE03iXW1sCNa2SzmMys1WQa7mLdhKFWOe4217jnJBR9Jv2ACfwJBBOFHeBQ-2BUEc4-2Bnitl6uRV78lwfbTgx4tanyE6YFyH7EjiDEAd37s506rF3ouIn-2FTeHoZw8SfovCK9maD0BtbTZoGJSD8wuYsLS4z1LO66-2Fn4Ahm9Gz0-2BsvPmqY5W8tLGrVxbCak-2BmgpmztSGa-2FmswvY17bnknDk2MmgcqmexA-2FTCbS4NqRr5SXBdhTLLEEDhEODMy04jdcRHP3q3u4J5Xp4-2BS9IfWBPJiFH2M74EWgfh6VOM1NmLB42mj0L3Y2D60GNf-2FAuGXr3Ba-2FXa">www.kansassbdc.net/2025impact</a>.

About the Kansas Small Business Development Center The Kansas Small Business Development Center network is a statewide, inter-institutional program to enhance economic growth in Kansas by providing no-cost management, marketing, and technical assistance to small businesses. Headquartered at Fort Hays State University with several regional centers located throughout the state, our mission is to empower entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed. To learn more about Kansas SBDC services or to connect with an advisor, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqkJPq7djzb4x3NlSri-2BP7RZrkMwj5RR8rYG5VSEFAbeQnCfQ_cOQXga6DQeSAkbfUu45CyqPe9athJpj56pFYgaFqkpcPvgqL1YSGxLdnzWi-2FgE03iXW1sCNa2SzmMys1WQa7mLdhKFWOe4217jnJBR9Jv2ACfwJBBOFHeBQ-2BUEc4-2Bnitl6uRV78lwfbTgx4tanyE6YFyH7EjiDEAd37s506rF3ouIn-2FTeHoZw8SfovCK9maD0BtbTZoGJSD8wuYsLS4z1B-2FxXlWihWwFg3JCObaCFBVH7WboO9QhR5x93cEjh0lTHAKwNPLWD8V9bS-2BMTHg3oe3J4ZB4m06nkv7vYx0Mt3J-2BmTG77RAWIghNYUeYSjtVeubkwsi3CYwXqSPXggYStGRwvgaEMCWJrzfe4sLwvhdSndZxCnfyDu2aFae9aI5x">www.kansassbdc.net</a>.The Kansas SBDC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Kansas Small Business Development Center delivers strong economic impact 

North Central and Northwest Extension Districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension again will be hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk,” slated to begin Tuesday, Feb. 10 through Tuesday, March 10, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers.  These will be on Tuesdays and each session will be held from noon to 1 p.m. CST. 

In the NC and NW agronomy focused areas, the meetings will feature presentations and comments by K-State Extension faculty to enhance management strategies utilized by crop producers. 

Our KSU extension team has vast experience in crop production and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information. 

Planned topics of discussion include Understanding Flex Leases; Available Soil Water at Planting and Related Management; Wheat conditions and Breeding efforts on Mosaic Viruses; Fungicide Applications in Corn and Sorghum and Insects to watch for in the Field. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists at each of the sessions. 

You register once and get information for all five webinars. The zoom and YouTube links will be emailed out after you register and on the day of the webinar. Register ONLINE at www.bit.ly/KSUCropTalk or call your local Extension Office. Once you register, a link to the ONLINE sessions will be emailed to you.  CCA credits have been applied for with 1 credit for each session. For more information about the ONLINE KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local County or District Extension Office. The Cottonwood Extension District office in Great Bend can be reached at 620-793-1910 and in Hays at 7856-628-9430.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: 'Virtual' Agronomy Series returns starting Feb. 10

New groundbreaking research - the largest dataset ever conducted on shared book reading - reaffirms that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library significantly strengthens early literacy skills for children in Central Kansas alongside children across the five other countries, reinforcing the power of shared reading in the earliest years of life.

The study, authored by Dr. Claire Galea, Head of Research at United Way Australia, analyzed data from more than 86,000 caregivers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland. Results were compared with responses from 18,112 caregivers who were on the program compared to 37,776 whose children were not in the program.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, was created over 30 years ago in honor of her father, who could not read or write. The program is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five. Today, the international program mails more than 3 million books each month directly to children’s homes. Every enrolled child receives one book per month from birth to age five—at no cost to families.

In Ellinwood, Great Bend, Hoisington, Larned, Otis, and Rozel the Imagination Library is delivered locally through United Way of Central Kansas, helping ensure children have access to books during the most critical years of brain development.

Global Findings The study found that across all countries evaluated, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is linked to stronger early literacy outcomes and richer reading experiences at home—helping close early literacy gaps by strengthening foundational skills, increasing the frequency of children being read to, and boosting children’s interest and engagement during shared book reading. It also shows the program builds positive family reading habits and traditions, with caregivers more likely to interact in meaningful ways (like talking about pictures and encouraging children to hold the book), reinforcing a warm, consistent home literacy environment that supports children’s learning and long-term success.

In the United States - Children were 11 times more likely to be interested in books and 15 times more likely to join in during shared reading compared to children not in the program.

· Children were nine times more likely to initiate shared reading and nearly three times more likely to demonstrate concepts about print compared to children not in the program.

Locally, the Imagination Library is facilitated by United Way of Central Kansas · Children currently enrolled locally: 827 - Ellinwood 86 - Great Bend 487 - Hoisington 98 - Larned 142 - Otis 8 - Rozel 6

· Books gifted locally to date: 59,414 (inception through Feb 2026)

· Local program launch year: Larned in 2012, Ellinwood in 2013, then expanded to Hoisington, Otis, and Great Bend in 2018, and finally Rozel in 2020.

· This program costs around $1,100 a month to support. If you or your business is interested in supporting this work, please reach out to United Way of Central Kansas. We are seeking sponsors for 2027 and beyond.

Founded by Dolly Parton in 1995 to honour her father, the Imagination Library continues to deliver measurable, international impact by putting books directly into children’s homes.

About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is the world’s leading early childhood book-gifting program, having gifted more than 300 million books across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland. The program is funded through a partnership between The Dollywood Foundation and hundreds of local community partners.

Visit imaginationlibrary.com for more information.

Study shows Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library's positive for Central Kansas kids

Eagle Media in Great Bend produces the Great Bend Post Podcast, available wherever you consume your podcasts. Hear past shows, interviews and meetings from local guests in the Barton County area. Make sure to follow the Post Podcast to receive notifications of new episodes.

View Great Bend Post Podcast on Apple Podcasts <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/great-bend-post-podcast/id1693657426">HERE</a>. View Great Bend Post Podcast on Spotify <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4E0Vv03Pfyf9n37kFV4n5b">HERE</a>.

🎙Follow the Great Bend Post Podcast - New Episodes

When a teenager or parent notices warning signs that a dating relationship may not be safe, the Family Crisis Center (FCC) in Great Bend is available to help in a number of ways.

In observance of National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in February, FCC Executive Director Kylee Graves is sharing information about local and national resources.

“We offer guidance one-on-one and during support-group sessions, as well as in high schools throughout our service area,” Graves said. “While we have interacted with many students, we are eager to branch out to reach teenagers in all 21 high schools in our 11-county service area.”

The FCC offers the “Safe Dates” curriculum, which has five components.

These components are: a 10-session dating-abuse curriculum, with each session lasting about 45 minutes; a play about dating abuse; media-message contest; family-discussion guides; and an evaluation questionnaire.

Topics include: defining caring relationships and dating abuse; helping friends; overcoming gender stereotypes; equal power through communication; and preventing sexual assault.

Six- and four-session programs are available too.

“We demonstrate examples of what it looks like to be in a healthy relationship, as well as what it looks like to be in an unhealthy relationship,” Graves summarized. “When appropriate, we provide resources for teens to use if they determine their relationship is unhealthy.”

In a one-on-one setting, the FCC offers age-appropriate information about sexual or domestic violence; individualized safety planning; validation of the survivor’s experience; help with building coping skills; and human-trafficking assistance.

FCC’s Domestic &amp; Sexual Violence Center representatives can meet with a minor up to three times without a parent present. For more information, call 620-793-9941 or the 24-hour hotline, 866-792-1885.

Resources/statistics According to a message from the director of “love is respect,” a teenager deserves to be seen, heard and supported.

“Love is respect” is a national organization that addresses teen-dating violence and other issues.

The teen-dating month observance is “not just about awareness; it’s about support too – real support from parents, friends, mentors, teachers, coaches – the people who care about you, even when they’re not sure how to show it.”

With this type of support, the individual is safer, stronger and more confident. “Let’s make space for the hard talks, the real feelings and the chance to change the story …” the message adds.

To contact “love is respect,” call 866-331-9474 or text LOVEIS to 22522 or 866-331-9474; or visit www.loveisrespect.org.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800-799-SAFE (7233); website is www.thehotline.org.

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is 800-422-4453; website is www.childhelp.org.

Based on recent data, approximately 1 in 12 U.S. high school students experience physical dating violence, a figure that aligns with similar trends in Kansas.

Additionally, up to 19 percent of teens nationally experience physical or sexual dating violence; 65 percent report psychological abuse.

In the U.S., 51 percent of dating girls and 43 percent of dating boys have been victims of abuse, whether it be emotional, physical or sexual.

FCC, 1924 Broadway, serves Barton, Barber, Comanche, Edwards, Ellsworth, Kiowa, Ness, Pawnee, Pratt, Rush and Stafford counties.

FCC offers information during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

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 

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

- Nathan Broekelman, head coach of Barton CC Wrestling

- Kyle Kreigh, head coach of Great Bend Boys Basketball

Thursday on Sports Day(Watch)

100:&nbsp;Sophia&nbsp;Bauer&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(For.) 105:&nbsp;Emjay&nbsp;Marez&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 110:&nbsp;Kaira&nbsp;Acosta&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Camdyn&nbsp;Post&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:35) 115:&nbsp;Crystal&nbsp;Loera&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Kayle&nbsp;Baldwin&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;3:54) 120:&nbsp;Julissa&nbsp;Rodriguez&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 125:&nbsp;Marina&nbsp;Loera&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brooklynn&nbsp;Kelly&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;3:08) 130:&nbsp;Aaliah&nbsp;Garza&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Micah&nbsp;Ellegood&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:50) 135:&nbsp;Double&nbsp;Forfeit140:&nbsp;Raygen&nbsp;Meza-McDermott&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Shatarah&nbsp;Newton&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:06) 145:&nbsp;Aria&nbsp;Cordes&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 155:&nbsp;Olivia&nbsp;Dunlap&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 170:&nbsp;Rydlie&nbsp;Swanson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Arianna&nbsp;Serrano&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:57) 190:&nbsp;Mary&nbsp;Condo&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.) 235:&nbsp;Amri&nbsp;Guerin&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(For.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

106:&nbsp;Izaac&nbsp;Gonzalez&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Charlie&nbsp;Foster&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:31) 113:&nbsp;Roman&nbsp;Garcia&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Noel&nbsp;Gonzalez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;0:53) 120:&nbsp;Fabian&nbsp;Merjil&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Abel&nbsp;Spencer&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Dec&nbsp;8-4) 126:&nbsp;Pace&nbsp;Plankenhorn&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Logan&nbsp;Turner&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:43) 132:&nbsp;Zachary&nbsp;Long&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Kawika&nbsp;Martinez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;1:16) 138:&nbsp;Cal&nbsp;Schartz&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Logan&nbsp;Polson&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(TF&nbsp;16-0&nbsp;1:43) 144:&nbsp;Trevin&nbsp;Maciel&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Isaiah&nbsp;Ayala&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(MD&nbsp;14-1) 150:&nbsp;Adrian&nbsp;Morales&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Julian&nbsp;Galindo&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;2:58) 157:&nbsp;Triston&nbsp;Tomlinson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;Moreno&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;3:25) 165:&nbsp;Aiden&nbsp;Stacey&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Juan&nbsp;Ortiz&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(MD&nbsp;15-6)175:&nbsp;Cruz&nbsp;Folk-Robinson&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Connor&nbsp;Wheeler&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;4:16) 190:&nbsp;Mason&nbsp;Guerrero&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Brady&nbsp;Mendez&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;5:24) 215:&nbsp;Kristian&nbsp;Bustamante&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Carlo&nbsp;Toledo&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(Fall&nbsp;2:31) 285:&nbsp;Josue&nbsp;Bustamante&nbsp;(GBH)&nbsp;over&nbsp;Manuel&nbsp;Hernandez&nbsp;(GCH)&nbsp;(Dec&nbsp;7-6)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Garden City Boys Wrestling 39, Great Bend 34/Garden City Girls Wrestling 66, Great Bend 12

The Barton Community College men's basketball team trailed for just two brief moments Wednesday evening on the road, grinding out a controlled 68–60 victory at Hutchinson Community College.

The fourth straight win inside the Sports Arena and third consecutive victory overall lifts Barton to 7–0 in Jayhawk Conference play and 15–8 on the season. Hutchinson, dropping its seventh straight, slips to 5–12 in league action and 10–13 overall.

Barton closes out its two-game road swing Saturday with a 4:00 p.m. tip at Pratt Community College before returning home Wednesday to host Fort Hays Tech Northwest.

The Blue Dragons briefly nudged ahead at 10–9 and again at 15–14 with 9:07 remaining in the opening half, but those leads were fleeting. Barton seized control over the next five minutes, rattling off a decisive 13–0 run to create separation. Hutchinson answered with four straight, but late three-pointers from&nbsp;Noah Williams&nbsp;and&nbsp;Blake Rucker&nbsp;sent the Cougars into the locker room with a 35–24 halftime cushion.

Hutchinson hung around through most of second half play, trimming the margin to five following a four-minute 6–0 spurt near the midpoint. That's when&nbsp;Jayden Ramirez&nbsp;provided the spark. The sophomore knocked down a three, converted an and-one off an offensive rebound, then added four more points to cap a personal 10–0 burst that rebuilt Barton's lead to its largest at 12 with 2:51 remaining. Rucker answered a Hutchinson triple with a dagger of his own at the 1:59 mark, and Barton calmly sealed the result by sinking 7-of-8 free throws down the stretch.

Ramirez led Barton's balanced scoring with 15 points and 7 rebounds, three coming on the offensive glass, helping Barton to a plus-16 edge on the boards and a 21-point bench scoring advantage. Williams rounded out the double-digit scoring with 12 points and 4 rebounds.

Four Cougars finished just shy of double digits with nine points apiece.&nbsp;Majok Chuol&nbsp;added six rebounds,&nbsp;Aris Rodriguez&nbsp;filled the stat sheet with five rebounds, four assists, and three steals, Rucker connected on both of his three-point attempts, and&nbsp;Brian Sullivan, Jr.&nbsp;chipped in five rebounds and three assists.&nbsp;Sebastian Muchitsch&nbsp;pulled down a game-high eight rebounds to go with five points, while&nbsp;Jon Byrd&nbsp;flirted with a double-double at seven assists and seven boards.

Daleron Thomas accounted for nearly half of Hutchinson's scoring, pouring in 29 points on 4-of-7 shooting from beyond the arc. Bobby Cannon was the lone other Blue Dragon in double figures, finishing with 11 points and a team-leading seven rebounds.

Ramirez' spark off the bench fuels Cougars' balanced attack in fourth straight win at Hutchinson

The Barton Community College women's basketball team saw a strong defensive first half give way to a tougher offensive night after the break, as No. 20 Hutchinson Community College pulled away in the second half for a 49-38 win Wednesday night inside the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

The loss drops the Cougars to a 7-10 in conference play and 9-14 overall, while the Blue Dragons improve to 13-4 in league action and 18-5 on the season, extending their win streak in the series to seven straight. Barton will close out its two-game road trip Saturday with a 2:00 p.m. afternoon tip at Pratt Community College before returning home next Wednesday for Pink Out night hosting Fort Hays Tech Northwest.

Offense was hard to come by in the opening 10 minutes, with Barton holding a slim 5-2 edge despite shooting just 2-of-16 from the floor. A&nbsp;Mersadie Spray&nbsp;three and a&nbsp;Regina Donanu&nbsp;bucket accounted for the scoring midway through the period while the Cougars' defense limited the Blue Dragons to just two points on 1-of-15 shooting in the frame.

Barton pushed the lead to its largest of the half early in the second quarter at 9-2 on baskets from&nbsp;Mary Akinde&nbsp;and Donanu before Hutchinson finally found an offensive rhythm, ending a near 10-minute scoring drought to put together an 11-2 run to take its lone lead of the half, 13-11 with 3:15 remaining. The Cougars responded with four straight points from Donanu and&nbsp;Christal Long, but a Blue Dragon bucket just before the buzzer sent the teams into the locker room knotted at 15-15.

Hutchinson gained control after halftime by knocking down four second-half three-pointers while turning Barton turnovers into points, converting 13 Cougar miscues into 14 points in the second half. Barton stayed within striking distance in the third behind Donanu, who scored eight of her 14 points in the period, including&nbsp;Alaina Eck's&nbsp;and-one that briefly gave the Cougars their final lead at 24-23 with 5:39 remaining.

Barton trimmed the deficit to four early in the fourth quarter, but scoring was limited down the stretch as the Cougars were held to 12 points in the period, with Akinde accounting for 11 of them.

The Cougars finished at 29.6 percent from the field after opening at 22.6 percent in the first half, while going 1-of-10 from outside. Turnovers proved costly as Barton committed 22 on the night, including 13 after halftime, leading to a plus-seven Hutchinson advantage in points off turnovers. The Blue Dragons shot 35.1 percent for the game and knocked down five three-pointers to create the separation in the second half.

Donanu paced a pair of Cougars in double figures with 14 points, while Akinde followed with 13 points and a game-high 16 rebounds, including five on the offensive end to record her eighth double-double of the season. The duo combined for 19 of Barton's 23 points in the second half.

Hutchinson was led by Kamyra Barber's double-double of 14 points and 11 rebounds, while the Blue Dragons held a 12-0 advantage in bench scoring.

Defensive start not enough in road loss at No. 20 Hutchinson

The Barton Community College softball team opened its 2026 season today in Sanger, Texas, completing a doubleheader sweep of North Central Texas College with a 17–0, five-inning victory in the opener before grinding out a 6–3 win in ten innings in the nightcap.

Barton' runs came on 20 hits across the two games, drawing 13 total walks while scoring in every inning of the opener. After building an early cushion in Game 2, the Cougars were forced to respond to a late NCTC rally, regrouping in extra innings to secure the sweep.

The Cougars now head back north with a stop in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, on Thursday for a 12 p.m. doubleheader against Division II No. 1-ranked Murray State College.

In the circle, Barton received a pair of steady performances beginning with freshman&nbsp;Charley Wheeler, who tossed a shutout in the opener, allowing just three hits over five innings. In Game 2,&nbsp;Peyton McCormick&nbsp;went the distance in a ten-inning effort, allowing just one earned run. Making just seven appearances and logging 11.1 innings in the circle last season, the sophomore carried a one-hitter into the seventh while scattering four hits in a workmanlike performance.

At the plate,&nbsp;Laney Wood&nbsp;led Barton across the doubleheader, going 6-for-9 with three extra-base hits, three RBI, and four runs scored from the leadoff spot.&nbsp;Morgan Thatcher&nbsp;delivered timely production, finishing the day with four RBI, including a two-run double in Game 2 and the two-run single that broke the tie in the 10th inning.&nbsp;Carly Erpelding&nbsp;matched Thatcher with three hits and four RBI, driving in three runs on two extra-base hits highlighted by a bases-clearing triple in the opener.

Game 1 Recap Barton scored runs in every inning, taking control immediately by drawing five walks to begin the game and scoring four runs while sending ten hitters to the plate. Erpelding and McCormick produced RBI walks, with&nbsp;Karter Alvord's fielder's choice pushing across another run.

Wood's double sparked a four-run second inning, followed by&nbsp;Mollie Steiner's sacrifice fly and an RBI single from Horton, before a two-run NCTC error stretched the lead to 7–0.

Steiner's two-bag RBI highlighted a six-run third inning, following hits by Thatcher and Wood, with McCormick drawing her second RBI walk and Erpelding lacing a bases-clearing triple to push the advantage to 13–0.

The Cougars produced one tally in the fourth, Horton's single driving home Wood's triple, as two more runs would cross in the fifth frame on Wood's connection pushing across Erpelding's leadoff double with&nbsp;Shaylee Spears' free pass eventually scoring on a passed ball to close out the scoring.

Wheeler's debut retired the first seven batters faced until a Lions one-out single halted the stretch. NCTC managed another hit in the fourth and a leadoff fifth inning connection before Wheeler struck out the final two batters preserving the shutout.

Game 2 Recap Barton struck first in the top of the second inning, capitalizing on a walk and an error before Thatcher delivered a two-run double, scoring an out later on Wood's third RBI of the day.

That margin held into the fifth as McCormick worked through traffic in the circle, but a pair of leadoff walks followed by consecutive sacrifice bunts trimmed the deficit to 3–1.

NCTC forced extra innings in the bottom of the seventh, taking advantage of a pair of singles and a two-run error to tie the game at 3–3, but McCormick induced a fly out ending the threat at third base to send the contest into extras.

After scoreless eighth and ninth innings, Barton broke through in the top of the 10th, beginning with a trio of singles to open the frame in loading the bases. McCormick helped her cause leading off with the first, Erpelding and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bartonsports.com/sports/sball/2025-26/bios/boone_chalyn_cmuc">Chalyn Boone</a>&nbsp;following before Alvord delivered a sacrifice fly for the game winner, with Thatcher tacking on insurance with a two-run single to extend the advantage to 6–3.

NCTC put the leadoff runner on in the bottom of the 10th, but McCormick and the defense closed the door with a fly out, a line out, and a ground ball to secure the extra-inning win and complete the sweep.

Barton Softball opens season with sweep in North Texas

MILAN (AP) — Vice President JD Vance is in Milan leading President Donald Trump’s delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics. He told a group of U.S. athletes that the games are “one of the few things that unites the entire country.” Vance, who said the trip is a highlight of his time as vice president, plans to watch the U.S. women’s hockey team take on Czechia in a preliminary game on Thursday. After spending the weekend at the games, Vance plans stops in Armenia and Azerbaijan. It's a show of support for an agreement the two nations signed at the White House last year aimed at ending decades of conflict between them.

MILAN (AP) — Finland women’s hockey team’s preliminary round-opening game against Canada on Thursday has been postponed due to a stomach virus depleting Finland’s roster. The game was rescheduled to Feb. 12. The decision to postpone the game was announced shortly after Finland completed its early afternoon practice with just eight skaters and two goalies. The remaining 13 players are either in quarantine or isolation due to a norovirus that began affecting the team on Tuesday night.

DALLAS (AP) — A person with knowledge of the deal says the Washington Wizards are acquiring Anthony Davis in an eight-player trade with the Mavericks that includes draft picks for Dallas. The move is a signal the Mavericks are moving on from the widely criticized trade that sent superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for a package headlined by Davis last year. The Wizards are sending Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham and Marvin Bagley III to the Mavericks along with two first-round draft picks and three second-rounders. Washington gets Jaden Hardy, D’Angelo Russell and Dante Exum.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Golden State Warriors have found their dependable big man by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis from Atlanta and have granted forward Jonathan Kuminga his wish to be traded. The Warriors also agreed to deal guard Buddy Hield to the Hawks, according to a person with knowledge of the deal. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the trade had not yet been approved by the league. Kuminga sat out his fifth straight game in Tuesday’s 113-94 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers because of a bone bruise in his left knee. He had recently fallen out of the Warriors' rotation.

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — When it comes to being an offensive coordinator in the NFL, few coaches have fared better than New England’s Josh McDaniels. As a head coach, it’s been a completely different story. The six-time Super Bowl champion is back in the title game after taking a one-year break from coaching following his second firing as a head coach with no thoughts now on whether he will ever get a third chance.

MILAN, Italy (AP) — U.S. Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski is leading the fight for gender equality at the Winter Olympics after women were excluded from the sport at the upcoming Milan Cortina Games. Despite record female participation levels reaching 47%, Nordic combined remains the only Winter Olympic event closed to women. The International Olympic Committee cites limited global participation and broadcast appeal. Malacinski, a top competitor, continues advocating for inclusion by the 2030 Winter Olympics. Her campaign highlights the long history of women’s Olympic exclusion and ongoing efforts to achieve full gender parity across winter sports, including recent milestones like equal cross-country skiing race distances.

Members of the gold-medal-winning 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team get recognized around the towns they now call home. They’re never the ones to bring up beating the Soviet Union in a game now known as the “Miracle on Ice.” But they are always willing to talk about the victory that still resonates beyond sports 46 years later. With the U.S. now among the favorites to win gold, captain Mike Eruzione and his teammates know they will be the subject of beloved remembrances across the country, even if the young men on the ice know more about the achievement from a movie than real life.

TEL AVIV (AP) — Israel's first bobsled team is set to compete in the Milan Cortina Winter Games. The team includes a diverse group of athletes, such as a pole-vaulter, sprinter, and former Olympian in skeleton. AJ Edelman, the team leader, is believed to be the first Orthodox Jew to compete in a Winter Games. Ward Farwaseh may be the first Druze Olympian. It’s an odyssey they liken to the hit Disney classic “Cool Runnings," or, as they put it “Shul Runnings.” Their participation comes amid international backlash over Israel's actions in Gaza.

MILAN (AP) — Spanish skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate says he has received approval for most of the music needed for his Minions-themed Olympic program. He still awaits clearance for Pharrell Williams' "Freedom." Sabate said Williams is open to it, but label restrictions are causing delays. Sabate had been practicing his program, believing he had the necessary permissions, but Universal Studios requested more details. Support from fans helped, and he secured rights to two pieces. Copyright issues are new in figure skating, with the ISU working on solutions. Other skaters, like Loena Hendrickx, have faced similar challenges.

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Bad Bunny is expected to perform solely in Spanish during the Super Bowl halftime show, highlighting Latin identity at America’s most-watched event. On Thursday, the Grammy winner might reveal more details during an interview in San Francisco. The interview will be broadcast on Apple Music and social media. Bad Bunny recently won Album of the Year at the Grammys, marking the first time an all Spanish-language album took the top prize. The Super Bowl will be held Sunday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. The Seattle Seahawks will face the New England Patriots.

NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE Final	Columbus	4	Chicago	0	 Final	Montreal	5	Winnipeg	1	 Final SO	Florida	5	Boston	4	 Final OT	Minnesota	6	Nashville	5	 Final	Utah	4	Detroit	1	 Final	Colorado	4	San Jose	2	 Final	Dallas	5	St. Louis	4	 Final	Calgary	4	Edmonton	3	 Final	Vegas	5	Vancouver	2	 Final	Seattle	4	Los Angeles	2

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final	(5)Illinois	84	Northwestern	44	 Final	Portland	87	(6)Gonzaga	80	 Final	(8)Houston	79	UCF	55	 Final	Minnesota	76	(10)Michigan State	73	 Final	Oklahoma State	99	(16)BYU	92	 Final	(20)Clemson	66	Stanford	64	 Final	(24)Louisville	76	Notre Dame	65

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

Jayhawk Conference Men's Standings Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp;ALL Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;16-7 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-8 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-7 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;16-7 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10-7&nbsp; &nbsp; 15-8 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14-8 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14-8 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;15-8 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-10 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-10 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5-12&nbsp; &nbsp; 10-13 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-14&nbsp; &nbsp; 5-18 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3-14&nbsp; &nbsp; 6-16 Wednesday, February 4 Barton 68, Hutchinson 60 Coffeyville 84, Cowley 67 Dodge City 80, Colby 71 Independence 81, Fort Hays Tech 70 Garden City 112, Butler 106 Seward County 84, Pratt 62 Saturday, February 7 Barton @ Pratt Coffeyville @ Dodge City Colby @ Cloud County Independence @ Garden City Hutchinson @ Cowley Sunday, February 8 Seward County @ Fort Hays Tech Monday, February 9 Air Force Prep @ Fort Hays Tech Wednesday, February 11 Fort Hays Tech @ Barton Cowley @ Pratt Butler @ Independence Cloud County @ Coffeyville Dodge City @ Hutchinson Garden City @ Seward County&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jayhawk Men's Standings, Scores, Schedule

Jayhawk Conference Women's Standings Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp; ALL Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 16-1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;22-1 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14-2&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;19-2 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 18-5 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-5&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-5 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;15-8 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-10 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-7 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7-10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9-14 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10-12 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-12 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-14&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-20 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6-16 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-15&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5-18 Wednesday, February 4 Hutchinson 49, Barton 38 Coffeyville 60, Cowley 39 Colby 71, Dodge City 64 Fort Hays Tech 65, Independence 62 Butler 90, Garden City 46 Seward County 100, Pratt 58 Saturday, February 7 Barton @ Pratt Coffeyville @ Dodge City Colby @ Cloud County Independence @ Garden City Hutchinson @ Cowley Sunday, February 8 Seward County @ Fort Hays Tech Wednesday, February 11 Fort Hays Tech @ Barton Cowley @ Pratt Butler @ Independence Cloud County @ Coffeyville Dodge City @ Hutchinson Garden City @ Seward County &nbsp;

Jayhawk Women's Standings, Scores, Schedule

SEDGWICK COUNTY —On Thursday morning, the Sedgwick County Zoo reported a&nbsp;wild bird showing potential signs of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) had been found on zoo grounds, according to the a social media report from the zoo.

The zoo sent samples out for conclusive testing.

Out of an abundance of caution for the health and safety of their birds, the zoo is increasing their HPAI biosecurity protocols while awaiting the final results.

What this means for your visit: The Australia/South America walk-through habitat is temporarily closed

 Flamingos, storks, cranes, and penguins will not be visible as often. 

"The health and safety of our animals is always our top priority. We'll keep you updated as we learn more. We appreciate your understanding and support as we prioritize animal welfare."

Signs of bird flu reported at zoo in Kansas 

TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Investigators believe the missing mother of “Today” show host&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/savannah-guthrie">Savannah Guthrie</a>&nbsp;is “still out there,” but they have not identified any suspects, a sheriff in Arizona said Thursday.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos also said DNA tests showed blood found on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-nancy-042abd04a6d87e14eecb22f0bc2893d1">Nancy Guthrie</a>&nbsp;’s porch came back a match to her. Authorities think she was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-0d6b55fd24f54b2526fd5f8894a52ff2">taken from her home</a>&nbsp;in Tucson against her will over the weekend.

“Right now, we believe Nancy is still out there. We want her home,” Nanos said at a news conference five days after she was reported missing. The sheriff, however, acknowledged that authorities have no proof she is still alive.

A day earlier, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings released an emotional&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-nancy-guthrie-mom-missing-88e8731270d05e6e667730d2ed8633d3">message to her 84-year-old mother’s kidnapper</a>, but there has been no public sign of a response.

Savannah Guthrie said her family is ready to talk but wants proof their mom is still alive. In the heart-wrenching video posted on social media Wednesday, she acknowledged hearing media reports about a ransom letter.

“We are ready to talk. However, we live in a world where voices and images are easily manipulated,” Savannah Guthrie said while reading from a prepared statement. “We need to know without a doubt that she is alive and that you have her. We want to hear from you and we are ready to listen. Please reach out to us.”

She was last seen Saturday night when she was dropped off at her Tucson home by family after having dinner with them, the sheriff’s department said.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/savannah-guthrie-mother-missing-arizona-tucson-74d845b070fefe2d94cb92d655308e91">She was reported missing</a>&nbsp;about 14 hours later on Sunday after she didn’t show up at a church.

Guthrie has limited mobility, and officials don’t believe she left on her own. A sheriff’s dispatcher said during the search Sunday that Guthrie has high blood pressure, a pacemaker and heart issues, according to audio from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.broadcastify.com/">broadcastify.com</a>.

The neighborhood’s desert terrain can make looking for people difficult, said Jim Mason, longtime commander of a search-and-rescue team in Maricopa County that isn’t involved in the search. He said it can be hard to see into areas dense with mesquite trees, cholla cactus and desert brush.

“Some of it is so thick you can’t drive through it,” Mason said.

At least three media organizations have reported receiving purported ransom notes that they handed over to investigators. The sheriff’s department has said it was taking the notes and other tips seriously but declined to comment further.

A note emailed Monday to the KOLD-TV newsroom in Tucson included information that only the abductor would know, anchor Mary Coleman told CNN. It also included a dollar amount and a deadline, she said.

“When we saw some of those details, it was clear after a couple of sentences that this might not be a hoax,” she said in an interview aired Wednesday.

The family posted their plea after police searched in and around Nancy Guthrie’s home for several hours Wednesday.

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