In celebration of National Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month this February, Great Bend High School (GBHS) is highlighting the success of its diverse technical programs designed to prepare students for their "next step"—whether that leads to a university campus or straight into a professional career.

At GBHS, CTE is more than just elective coursework; it is a launchpad for specialized talent. Junior Slayde Apley is a prime example. While many students are navigating general studies, Apley is busy building his future at a 1/4-inch scale. In his Production 3 capstone class, Apley has moved beyond the popsicle sticks and foam boards of his childhood to create a professional architectural model of his family home.

“I’ve said I wanted to be an architect since kindergarten,” Apley says. “I barely could say the word before I knew what an architect was.”

Under the guidance of instructor Jake Hofflinger, Apley uses industry-standard tools like CorelDRAW and laser engravers to translate 2D blueprints into a 3D physical manifestation. His project includes intricate details such as custom cabinetry, tile flooring, and a kitchen island. Apley plans to take these skills to Kansas State University to study architecture, with a long-term goal of opening his own firm.

Recognizing the need for modern technical skills, GBHS has also forged innovative partnerships to overcome local staffing challenges. Senior Sergio Rodriguez, currently in his fourth semester of drafting, benefits from a unique collaboration with Hutchinson Community College (HutchCC). This partnership allows Rodriguez to receive remote instruction in Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) when a local certified teacher is not available in this subject area.

“I showed [my father] how I worked on the drawings,” says Rodriguez, whose father works in construction. “I can take the 2D plans and make them 3D, so he and his customers can see how it’s going to look.”

These success stories are snapshots of a much larger program at GBHS. The CTE offerings at GBHS include ample opportunities for students to gain valuable knowledge and skills they will use after graduation. The model is based on the National Career Clusters model and includes:

· Career Fields: Agriculture; Business; Design, Production, &amp; Repair; Health &amp; Human Services; Media &amp; Technology; and Public Service

· Career Clusters: 13 groups of occupations and industries that have similar features.

· Pathways: 31 pathways within the career clusters that are organized by the knowledge and skills needed for each field. Students must complete 3 credits to complete a Pathway.

“By combining trade skills with practical application, GBHS ensures its graduates are prepared for their next step,” said Carrie Minton, GBHS assistant principal. “Whether students are sparking an interest in the welding booth or navigating complex financial spreadsheets, these pathways are designed to turn student interests into sustainable careers.”

For more information about the various Career &amp; Technical Education pathways available at Great Bend High School, contact the school at 620-793-1521.

GBHS celebrates CTE Month by bridging classroom learning and real-world careers

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) continues to monitor air quality across the state due to the recent wildland fires in western Kansas that began on Feb. 17, due to high winds and dry conditions. Updates will be provided as Air Quality Index (AQI) results are made available.

Wildfires can&nbsp;release large amounts of particulate matter and other pollutants that can form ground-level ozone. Particulate matter and ozone can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals. Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing, and illnesses such as bronchitis. People with respiratory conditions and cardiovascular diseases, as well as children and elderly, are more vulnerable to experience symptoms.

Steps to protect your health on days when smoke is present in your community include:

For current air monitoring data in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kdhe.ks.gov%2F300%2FAir-Monitoring-Data%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0100019c733bbd79-c6cb2bc8-4712-400f-91ca-1f45ef2e5504-000000/6K5IP5KnAC_hL9jZezCoh8TP-HIgqFYPuB3r0ul2c3k=445">Air Monitoring Data | KDHE, KS</a>.

Monitoring data and fire and smoke information can be accessed at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Ffire.airnow.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery%236%2F41%2F-98/1/0100019c733bbd79-c6cb2bc8-4712-400f-91ca-1f45ef2e5504-000000/iAQqSg8xEcmeWPrfeCGWbQy0MRdD-rN0ciLPt9TR3U0=445">AirNow Fire and Smoke Map</a>.

KDHE monitoring air quality after recent wildland fires across Kansas

The Great Bend Housing Authority (GBHA) will host an informational meeting for local landlords with rental properties located within the city of Great Bend to discuss updates to its Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program and introduce a new policy aimed at incentivizing participation and supporting property owners.

The meeting will take place Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m. at the Great Bend Event Center, located at 3111 10th Street. The meeting is open to all city of Great Bend landlords, including those currently participating in the Section 8 program and those interested in learning more. Light refreshments will be provided, and the meeting is expected to last approximately one hour.

GBHA Executive Director Lynn Fleming will share an overview of the Section 8 program, discuss current housing needs in the community, and outline recent policy updates designed to reduce risk and improve the landlord experience. GBHA currently receives 112 vouchers each month, with approximately 80 in use, leaving additional capacity for new landlord participation.

New incentives include a $500 signing bonus for new landlords, as well as funding that may help reimburse for unpaid rent, property damages, and loss of rent. GBHA also offers direct-deposit rent payments issued on the first day of each month.

“Section 8 plays a critical role in Great Bend by helping seniors, individuals with disabilities, and working families maintain safe, secure, and sanitary housing. At the same time, we recognize that landlords often have concerns about reliability and risk,” said Lynn Fleming, Executive Director for GBHA. “This new policy is designed to address those concerns by reducing uncertainty and creating a more supportive, predictable experience for property owners.”

The meeting will also feature experienced Section 8 landlords who will share their perspectives, along with time for questions and discussion. GBHA will review what landlords can expect when working with the organization, including program requirements, tenant screening processes, utility allowances provided to tenants, and ongoing support. “We wanted this meeting to be informative and practical,” Fleming said. “It’s an opportunity for landlords to ask questions, hear directly from others who have participated in the program, and walk away with a clear understanding of how the process works and how GBHA supports them.”

GBHA recently launched a new Facebook page and encourages landlords and community members to follow for updates, event information, and ongoing program announcements. More information about the Section 8 program and the upcoming meeting is available at www.gbhaks.com. For questions or to learn more about participating, contact GBHA at 620-793-7761. The GBHA office is located inside the High Rise at 1101 Kansas Avenue and is open five days per week.

GB Housing Authority to host landlord meeting on Section 8 updates on Wednesday

Barton Theatre will bring Bikini Bottom to the stage with the spring musical “The SpongeBob Musical,” March 5-8 in the Fine Arts Auditorium.

Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on March 5, 6, and 7, with a 2 p.m. matinee on March 8.

Based on the hit Nickelodeon series, “The SpongeBob SquarePants Musical” follows SpongeBob, Patrick, Sandy, and the rest of the Bikini Bottom crew as they come together to save their undersea world from a volcanic disaster. Featuring original songs by a wide range of artists and musical styles, the show blends humor, heart, and high-energy performances for audiences of all ages. The show celebrates friendship, community, and the power of believing in yourself.

The production is a collaborative project involving Barton’s Performing Arts Departments, the Great Bend High School Drama Department, and performers from the community.

Tickets range from $5 to $15 and are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://shows.bartonccc.edu/" target="_blank">shows.bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Theatre to present spring musical 'The SpongeBob Musical'

Booked Stenberg, Shawn M. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202500825 for failure to appear, bond set at $1,000.00 Cash or Surety. #202500826 for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000.00 Cash or Surety. #202500821 for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000.00 Cash or Surety. #202500828 for Failure to Appear, bond set at $1,000.00 Cash or Surety.

Released Stenberg, Shawn M. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant # 202500825 for failure to appear, by posting a $1,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. #202500825 for Failure to Appear, by posting a $1,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. #202500827 for Failure to Appear, by posting a $1,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds. #202500828 for Failure to Appear, by posting a $1,000.00 Surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (2/18)

Thursday Sunny, with a high near 48. Breezy, with a northwest wind 15 to 20 mph increasing to 24 to 29 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 39 mph. Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 17. North northwest wind 12 to 17 mph decreasing to 6 to 11 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 26 mph.

Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 40. North northwest wind 6 to 11 mph becoming east in the afternoon. Friday Night A 30 percent chance of snow before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21. East wind around 10 mph becoming north northeast after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph.

Saturday Mostly sunny, with a high near 45. Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 21.

Sunday Sunny, with a high near 46.

Thursday's weather

For the purpose of this column, a weed is defined as a plant growing somewhere it is not wanted. For many gardeners, weeds are the downfall. Weeds create competition for nutrients and water. They can also restrict growth of desired plants by competing for space. The frustration with weeds leads some gardeners to turn to chemicals or give up on a garden plot altogether. 

Understanding weeds may be helpful in your gardening efforts. Just like our garden plants, weeds can be annuals, perennials or biennials. Annual weeds, including henbit and spurge, germinate each year and complete their life cycle in one growing season. Perennial weeds, such as clover and bindweed, live at least two years and often reproduce by seed with the help of wind, water, animals and other means of dispersal. 

We all know a child, or perhaps you were the child, who loves blowing dandelion heads and making wishes as the wind disperses the seeds. Perennial weeds can sometimes spread by cuttings of roots or other vegetative plant parts as well. This capability can make managing these weeds a challenge.&nbsp; 

Preventing weeds is the best management strategy. This includes using practices such as keeping the soil covered with a cover crop or mulch to prevent germination. Using drip irrigation to direct water to the desired plants rather than watering the entire garden area can also prevent weeds from germinating. 

Other prevention strategies include minimizing tillage. Deep tilling the garden damages the soil structure and brings weed seeds to the surface where conditions for germination are right. Occultation is the use of black tarps over the ground to kill weeds with the help of the sun. Depending on the persistence of the weeds this can take a couple weeks to months for successful eradication. 

Weeds that have already established in a garden are often most effectively and safely removed by hand pulling. Though there are a couple of herbicides home gardeners can use there are consequences of using this method, including risk of damaging vegetable crops due to overspray. 

Cultivating the top one to two inches of soil can remove annual and young perennial weeds. If done on a regular basis this can effectively control their growth. It is beneficial to knock out weeds before they are able to develop seeds to prevent reproduction. A single dandelion seed head has been reported to produce 150 to 200 seeds. (Something to remember next time you see the neighborhood child gathering stems in their yard!) 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) includes controlling weeds in the landscape. Using a variety of practices listed above will give the most effective management.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Weeds - ready or not, here they come

The public is invited to attend a legislative coffee on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 10-11 a.m., in the Ellinwood Public Library, 210 N. Schiller Ave. Women for Kansas Barton County Chapter and Sunflower Bank will provide coffee and light refreshments. There is no fee for this event. 

Kansas State Representative Brett Fairchild and a staff member from US Senator Roger Marshall’s office are confirmed to attend. After updates from the elected officials on current legislative actions and information about their respective committee assignments, they will address questions and issues presented by attendees.

For more information, please contact Women for Kansas Barton County Chapter at w4kgreatbend@gmail.com

Public invited to Legislative Coffee in Ellinwood on Feb. 28

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

🎙Follow the Great Bend Post Podcast - New Episodes

By ELLE HUTCHINSON Barton County Media Consultant

During this week’s meeting, the Barton County Commission approved a request from the Sheriff’s Office to replace a portion of its patrol vehicle fleet.

Sheriff Brian Bellendir explained that the department regularly replaces vehicles due to high mileage, mechanical issues, or damage to ensure reliable and safe operations for deputies across the county.

The Sheriff’s Office identified four available vehicles through the Kansas Highway Patrol that meet current operational needs, including three 2023 and one 2022 Dodge Durango Pursuit AWD units. These vehicles come fully equipped for law enforcement use, making them a cost-effective option compared to purchasing and outfitting new vehicles.

The total cost of the four vehicles is $152,650.00. Bellendir noted that no vehicles were replaced in the previous year, allowing approximately $116,000 in unused vehicle funds to be returned to the county. The department will apply those funds toward this purchase and use its 2026 vehicle budget to cover the remaining balance, while still maintaining funding for any additional vehicle needs that may arise throughout the year.

The Commission approved the request, supporting the Sheriff’s Office’s efforts to maintain a reliable fleet while making efficient use of county resources.

Barton Co. Sheriff’s Office purchases four used vehicles for $152,000

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The best kind of tax is one paid by someone else. Great Bend’s
transient guest tax is just that. Every visitor who stays in a Great Bend hotel
pays a six percent tax. Five percent of that tax funds the Convention and Visitors
Bureau, and one percent funds the Events Center. CVB Director Amanda Gaddis
provided some collection numbers to the Great Bend City Council during Tuesday’s meeting.

“The first quarter was September through November, and we collected
$118,042.38,” she said. “That’s the second-highest since 2012. When you compare
all the averages, that’s about a 27 percent increase in what we’ve seen in that
quarter, so we’re pretty proud of those numbers.”

Gaddis said various conferences and meetings were held in
town during that quarter, but another big driver of the increase was out-of-town
hunters.

“I talked to Curtis Wolf out at the Kansas Wetlands
Education Center, and he said they did have a lot of the hunting numbers come
back,” Gaddis said. “The birds, not so much, but because we did have water out
there, we are seeing those numbers come back.”

Members of the CVB and KWEC will attend the 78th
Annual Omaha International Boat Sports and Travel Show this weekend in Nebraska.
In past years, the Great Bend booth has drawn in an average of about 2,200
visitors. Each of those contacts is an opportunity to invite that person to
visit Great Bend.

City of Great Bend enjoying spike in transient guest tax collections

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 

- Nathan Broekelman, head coach of Barton CC Wrestling

- Kyle Kreigh, head coach of Great Bend HS Boys Basketball

Thursday on Sports Day(Watch)

Western Athletic Conference Thursday Garden City @ Hays Guymon, OK @ Liberal Friday Garden City @ Dodge City S.W. Heights @ Liberal Central Kansas League Thursday Little River Girls @ Halstead Friday Larned @ Hoisington Pratt @ Smoky Valley Nickerson @ Hillsboro Haven @ Hesston Elyria Christian @ Halstead Central Prairie League Thursday Canton-Galva @ Central Plains Friday Central Plains @ Kinsley Otis-Bison @ Ellinwood St. John @ Macksville Ness City @ Victoria Chase @ Western Plains Minneola @ LaCrosse Other Area Games Thursday Stafford @ Sedgwick Ellsworth @ Salina Sacred Heart Friday Stafford @ Attica Hill City @ Russell Southeast of Saline @ Lyons TMP @ Norton Skyline @ Central Christian

Thursday/Friday Area High School Basketball Schedule

The Great Bend Panthers girls and boys basketball teams will host Liberal Monday, February 23 at the Panther Fieldhouse.

The doubleheader will make up the games that were scheduled to be played this past Tuesday but were postponed due to high winds in Southwest Kansas.

There will be two varsity games only, with the girls tipping off at 4:30 and the boys game starting at 6:00 p.m.

Panthers to host Liberal Monday in make up game

The 20th ranked Barton Community College men's basketball team stayed hot at the Power Plant Wednesday night in El Dorado, posting a statement performance by leading from start to finish in a 102-94 victory knocking off 16th ranked Butler Community College.

After an early back-and-forth stretch, the Cougars created separation with a 6-0 run midway through the first half before breaking it open shortly thereafter with a decisive 10-0 surge. Back-to-back&nbsp;Blake Rucker&nbsp;three-pointers highlighted the stretch as Barton pushed the margin into double digits and carried a 44-36 lead into the locker room.

The Cougars maintained a double-digit advantage for much of the second half, stretching the lead to as many as 20 at the 14:08 mark. Butler made a late push, capitalizing on a flurry of Barton turnovers in the final two minutes to trim the deficit into single digits, but the Cougars overcame a season-high 30 turnovers by converting at the free throw line to secure the season sweep.

Barton's seventh straight victory climbs to within one of the conference race at 14-7 and 19-8 overall while Butler slips to 14-6 in Jayhawk Conference play and 18-8 on the season. With just three games remaining in the regular season, Barton returns home for a two-game homestand beginning Saturday with a 4:00 p.m. tip against Independence Community College at Fleske Fieldhouse.

Noah Williams&nbsp;led the Cougars with 21 points and nine rebounds, while Rucker poured in a career-high 20 points off the bench on 5-of-8 shooting, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc.&nbsp;Sebastian Muchitsch&nbsp;recorded 17 points and a game-high 13 rebounds for his seventh double-double of the year, and reigning KJCCC Player of the Week&nbsp;Aris Rodriguez&nbsp;added 14 points, four assists, and four steals.&nbsp;Jayden Ramirez&nbsp;narrowly missed his first double-double, going a perfect 8-of-8 at the line while hauling down nine rebounds.&nbsp;Jon Byrd&nbsp;matched Rodriguez with a team-high four assists and contributed nine points.

Barton shot 52.7 percent from the field and 46.2 percent from three-point range while dominating the glass 53-36. The Cougars controlled the paint 46-32 and converted 38-of-48 free throws to offset Butler's 23 second-chance points and 30 points off turnovers.

Butler shot just 36.5 percent from the floor and 21.7 percent (10-of-46) from beyond the arc while converting 22-of-31 at the free throw line. The Grizzlies placed six in double figures, led by Tim Walker II's 17 points and Jaise Combs' 15. Odie Williams added 11 points and a team-high seven rebounds, while Dominic Pleasants, Xavier Brown, and AJ Pierre-Jerome each chipped in 10.

No. 20 Barton knocks off No. 16 Butler 102-94 to complete season sweep

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; 14-6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-8 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;19-8 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 17-9 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-12 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-8 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;16-10 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-9 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-10&nbsp; &nbsp; 17-11 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-10&nbsp; &nbsp;15-11 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-12 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7-14&nbsp; &nbsp; 12-15 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-17&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5-21 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 3-18&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;6-20 Wednesday, February 18 Barton 102, Butler 94 Hutchinson 75, Colby 71 Cowley 100, Garden City 76 Cloud County 69, Pratt 67 Seward County 80, Independence 72 Dodge City 68, Fort Hays Tech 67 Saturday, February 21 Independence @ Barton Butler @ Cowley Fort Hays Tech @ Cloud County Colby @ Pratt Hutchinson @ Coffeyville Dodge City @ Garden City Wednesday, February 25 Seward County @ Barton Cowley @ Independence Fort Hays Tech @ Colby Pratt @ Coffeyville Butler @ Dodge City Garden City @ Cloud County &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; 19-1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;25-1 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;22-3 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 22-5 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;19-7 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-9 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-12 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-10&nbsp; &nbsp; 15-10 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 10-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-15 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-13 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7-13&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-14 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-18&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-24 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-18&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5-21 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-19&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6-20 Wednesday, February 18 Butler 64, Barton 44 Hutchinson 50, Colby 42 Cowley 75, Garden City 56 Cloud County 70, Pratt 55 Seward County 91, Independence 52 Dodge City 70, Fort Hays Tech 28 Saturday, February 21 Independence @ Barton Butler @ Cowley Fort Hays Tech @ Cloud County Colby @ Pratt Hutchinson @ Coffeyville Dodge City @ Garden City Wednesday, February 25 Seward County @ Barton Cowley @ Independence Fort Hays Tech @ Colby Pratt @ Coffeyville Butler @ Dodge City Garden City @ Cloud County &nbsp;

Jayhawk Women's Standings, Scores, Schedule

The Barton Community College women's basketball team found itself in an early hole Wednesday night at the Power Plant, as No. 2 Butler Community College opened on a 13-0 run and never relinquished control in a 64-44 decision in El Dorado.

The Grizzlies struck quickly, scoring the game's first 13 points while holding Barton scoreless for nearly five minutes.&nbsp;Regina Donanu's jumper at the 5:06 mark finally put the Cougars on the board, and a late&nbsp;Mersadie Spray&nbsp;layup made it 13-4 at the end of the opening quarter. Barton settled in defensively from there, but Butler carried a 34-20 advantage into halftime after back-to-back Spray three-pointers in the closing minute trimmed what had been an 18-point deficit.

The third quarter unfolded evenly, with both teams scoring 11 points as Barton showed improved defensive resistance and battled on the glass. However, every Cougar push was answered, and Butler gradually stretched the margin to as many as 22 midway through the fourth quarter before the final 64-44 margin.

The loss drops Barton to 12-15 overall and 10-11 in Jayhawk Conference play, while Butler improves to 25-1 and 19-1 in league action. Barton returns home Saturday hosting Independence Community College for a 2 p.m. tip at the Barton Gym.

Spray led the Cougars with 14 points, knocking down a pair of three-pointers while adding four rebounds and two steals.&nbsp;Kodi Greer&nbsp;provided nine points off the bench on three made triples, and&nbsp;Mary Akinde&nbsp;recorded a team-high 10 rebounds to go with six points.

Barton held a 14-2 advantage in bench scoring and committed just 12 turnovers, but struggled from the floor, finishing 15-of-59 for a season low 25.4% overall and 5-of-21 from beyond the arc. The Cougars were efficient at the line, converting 9-of-12 free throws.

Butler shot 27-of-59 (45.8 percent) from the field and controlled the paint with a 26-10 scoring edge inside while outrebounding Barton 42-36.

The Grizzlies placed four starters in double figures, as Keegan Yarick, Ashley Singhateh, Mya Mayberry, and Aliyah Green each scored 13 points. Kenzie Galliart added 10 points and a game-high 12 rebounds in the balanced effort.

Cold start and season low shooting proves costly in Barton women's 64-44 road setback at No. 2 Butler

The Barton Community College baseball team continued its torrid offensive stretch Wednesday afternoon, rolling to a 28-5 seven-inning run rule victory over the Bethany College junior varsity squad at Jimmy Lawson-Danny Biggs Field.

After surrendering a run in the top of the first, the Cougars responded immediately, sending 13 hitters to the plate and erupting for nine runs in the bottom half.&nbsp;Kyle Walker&nbsp;ignited the surge with a triple after&nbsp;Hunter Thoms&nbsp;was hit by a pitch to begin the inning and later capped the frame with a solo home run, while&nbsp;Rhett Winchester&nbsp;also added a solo shot as part of seven extra-base hits in the inning.

The offensive barrage never slowed as Barton scored in all six of its plate appearances, finishing with 28 runs on 23 hits, including 16 extra-base hits. The 28 runs marked the second-highest single-game total in program history. Thirteen different Cougars recorded a hit in the dominant performances, with 12 different players driving in a run.

Barton improves to 9-0 on the season while Bethany College JV falls to 0-3. Due to anticipated inclement weather over the weekend, the Cougars' upcoming contests have been moved to Monday and Tuesday, hosting Northeast Community College on Monday before welcoming Highland Community College on Tuesday. First pitch for both doubleheaders is slated for 1:00 p.m. at Jimmy Lawson-Denny Biggs Field.

Walker led the offensive charge, finishing 3-for-3 with a triple, home run and three RBIs.&nbsp;Carter Helm&nbsp;went 4-for-5 with three doubles and two RBIs, while&nbsp;Jaxon Case&nbsp;drove in a game-high four runs.&nbsp;Micah McGavern&nbsp;added three hits, including a solo home run.

Barton also received contributions from throughout the roster, as&nbsp;Karston Wall&nbsp;recorded his first collegiate hit and RBI,&nbsp;Jordan Raposo&nbsp;picked up his first career RBI, and&nbsp;Bruin Sampson&nbsp;tallied his first collegiate hit while driving in the first two runs of his career.

On the mound&nbsp;Cayman Cook&nbsp;earned the victory in his first collegiate start, working three innings, while allowing two runs on three hits and striking out four. The bullpen handled the final four frames, surrendering three runs The Cougars utilized multiple relievers over the final four innings to secure the seven-inning run-rule victory.

Cougars erupt for program's second-highest run total in 28-5 victory over Bethany College JV

ANTERSELVA, Italy (AP) — The sport of biathlon, which combines cross-country skiing with .22-caliber rifles, developed out of Scandinavian military training exercises, so it’s not surprising that many of the biathletes competing at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics have military or law enforcement careers that help them fine-tune their skills, support them while competing and ensure a job when they retire. French Olympic gold medalists Lou Jeanmonnot and Éric Perrot both are sergeants in the French Army. Three U.S. biathlon team members are with the Vermont National Guard and Lisa Vittozzi is with the Italian Army sports group Centro Sportivo Esercito. U.S. biathlete Sean Doherty said: “It is a powerful thing knowing you have so much support behind you, and support that goes beyond just your racing career.”

MILAN (AP) — The U.S. and Canada are moving on to the semifinals at the Olympics. Each needed extra hockey to get through the quarterfinals. Quinn Hughes scored in overtime to put the U.S. past Sweden 2-1 after giving up the tying goal to Mika Zibanejad with 91 seconds left in the third period. Dylan Larkin deflected Jack Hughes’ shot in for the only U.S. goal in regulation. Nick Suzuki tied it for Canada late in regulation against Czechia, and Mitch Marner won it 4-3 in overtime to avoid what would have been a stunning early exit.

SEATTLE (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks are going up for sale in accordance with the wishes of late team owner Paul Allen. Allen’s estate announced Wednesday that it has begun the process of selling the team, which is coming off its second Super Bowl victory in franchise history. The Seahawks have been in the Allen family since 1997, when Paul bought the team for $194 million from then-owner Ken Behring. Paul was critical in keeping the Seahawks in Seattle, which is where the team is expected to remain after the sale is finalized. The Seahawks have a lease at Lumen Field that runs through 2032 with three 10-year options.

MILAN (AP) — Alysa Liu carries U.S. gold hopes as women’s figure skating heads into its final night at the Milan Cortina Games. On Tuesday, Japan’s Ami Nakai took the short program lead, with Kaori Sakamoto just a point behind. Their Japanese teammate Mone Chiba stayed close too, while Liu sits among that trio. The 20-year-old world champion has returned strong after a two-year retirement, and now Liu is chasing the first Olympic women’s gold medal for the U.S. since 2002. Adeliia Petrosian is the wildcard. The neutral athlete from Russia has the ability to land a quad jump and could upend the standings on Thursday night.

Frustrated coaches in men's and women's college basketball haven't been holding back in publicly criticizing their teams in recent weeks. That notably includes Vic Schaefer of the fourth-ranked Texas women and now-fired Kansas State men's coach Jerome Tang. Schaefer had said his team had “no heart” after a recent loss at No. 5 Vanderbilt. But he praised the team's response in a win against Tennessee days later. It’s a delicate dance for coaches in finding the balance between tough-love motivation and a softer-touch inspiration. Florida State men's coach Luke Loucks said coaches have to “find ways to squeeze the orange."

SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — Bruce Meyer was promoted to interim executive director of the baseball players’ association, a day after Tony Clark’s forced resignation. It was a move for continuity ahead of the likely start in April of what figures to be contentious collective bargaining with team owners. Matt Nussbaum was promoted to interim deputy executive director from general counsel. The decisions were made by the Major League Baseball Players Association executive board during an online meeting. Both votes were unanimous. A 64-year-old veteran labor lawyer, Meyer joined the union staff in 2018 and led negotiations through a 99-day lockout that led to a five-year agreement in March 2022.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Riviera has a long history as it celebrates 100 years. It also has a very long par 3. The Genesis Invitational returns to the fabled course a year after moving because of the devastating wildfires in Pacific Palisades. New for this signature event is a tee box on the par-3 fourth hole that now measures 273 yards. That makes it the longest par 3 on the PGA Tour among regular stops. Rory McIlroy calls it a horrible change. McIlroy also is aware of the rich history at Riviera, which is why he would like to add that to courses he has won.

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Green Bay coach Doug Gottlieb received a one-game suspension from the Horizon League for comments he made criticizing the officiating after a 75-72 loss to Milwaukee last Sunday. Gottlieb had slammed his hands on the table at one point in his postgame news conference while complaining about what he perceived as inconsistency in the officiating. Video of his news conference garnered attention on social media. The suspension will take effect for Friday when Green Bay visits Oakland. Gottlieb issued a statement Wednesday apologizing for his comments.

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — Mikaela Shiffrin’s eight-year Olympic medal drought is over. The American skiing standout has put in two dominant runs in gorgeous conditions amid the jagged peaks of the Dolomites to show why she is regarded by many as the greatest Alpine skier of all time. It was the third-largest margin of victory in a women’s Olympic slalom, the event she won as a fresh-faced teenager in Sochi in 2014 to underline her status as a skiing star. She delivered again in her favorite race 12 years later for her third Olympic gold and gain redemption after failing to win a medal in Beijing four years ago.

DALLAS (AP) — The former girlfriend of Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice alleges in a lawsuit filed this week that he physically assaulted her multiple times over a year-and-a-half, causing injuries that included bleeding and bruising. The lawsuit filed Monday in Dallas County by Dacoda Jones comes after she made domestic violence allegations in a series of social media posts last month. She is seeking over $1 million in the lawsuit, which says the assaults happened at their homes in Dallas and suburban Kansas City. The lawsuit says Rice strangled Jones in December 2023 after an “escalation in violent behavior” and then continued to assault her over the course of their relationship, through July 2025.

TOP-25 COLLEGE BASKETBALL Final	(4)Arizona	75	(23)BYU	68	 Final	Creighton	91	(5)UConn	84	 Final	(8)Kansas	81	Oklahoma State	69	 Final	(10)Illinois	101	USC	65	 Final	(11)Gonzaga	80	San Francisco	59	 Final	(14)Virginia	94	Georgia Tech	68	 Final	(17)St. John's	76	Marquette	70	 Final	Missouri	81	(19)Vanderbilt	80	 Final	(25)Alabama	117	(20)Arkansas	115

Thursday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

STILLWATER, Okla. (AP) — Freshman Darryn Peterson scored 20 of his 23 points in the first half, sparking No. 8 Kansas to an 81-69 win over Oklahoma State on Wednesday night.

Peterson, a guard who is expected to be among the first picks in the NBA draft later this year, had shot 13 for 36 from the field combined in his previous three games. He made 7 of 12 field goals against the Cowboys, including 6 of 10 3-pointers.

Tre White scored 16 points and Elmarko Jackson added 14 for Kansas. Bryson Tiller had 10 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists and Flory Bidunga added eight points, 11 rebounds and four blocks for the Jayhawks (20-6, 10-3 Big 12), who made 11 of 24 3-pointers and bounced back from a blowout loss at Iowa State last Saturday.

Parsa Fallah scored 21 points and Anthony Roy added 16 for Oklahoma State (16-10, 4-9), which lost its fourth straight since a win over BYU. The Cowboys were coming off a tough overtime home loss to TCU and could have used a quality win to strengthen their NCAA Tournament resume.

It was a blackout game for the Oklahoma State crowd, but about a third of the fans were wearing Kansas blue.

Oklahoma State fell behind 10-1 and went more than three minutes without a field goal to start the game. The Jayhawks ran out to a 39-16 lead before the Cowboys went on an 11-0 run. Kansas led 43-29 at the break.

The Jayhawks remained in control in the second half, despite Peterson scoring just three points. Kansas shot 48% from the field after the break to stay safely ahead.

Oklahoma State: Visits Colorado on Saturday.

No. 8 Kansas rolls past Oklahoma State 81-69

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, a panel made up of President Donald Trump's appointees, on Thursday approved his proposal to build a ballroom larger than the White House itself where the East Wing once stood.

The seven-member panel is one of two federal agencies that must approve Trump's plans for the ballroom. The National Capital Planning Commission, which has jurisdiction over construction and major renovation to government buildings in the region, is also reviewing the project.

Members of the fine arts commission originally had been scheduled to discuss and vote on the design after a follow-up presentation by the architect, and had planned to vote on final approval at next month's meeting. But after the 6-0 vote on the design, the panel's chairman, Rodney Mims Cook Jr., unexpectedly made another motion to vote on final approval.

Six of the seven commissioners — all appointed by the Republican president in January — voted once more in favor. Commissioner James McCrery did not participate in the discussion or the votes because he was the initial architect on the project before Trump replaced him.

The ballroom will be built on the site of the former East Wing, which Trump had demolished in October with little public notice. That drew an outcry from lawmakers, historians and preservationists who argued that the president should not have taken that step until the two federal agencies and Congress had reviewed and approved the project, and the public had a chance to provide comment.

The 90,000-square-foot ballroom would be nearly twice the size of the White House, which is 55,000-square-feet, and would accommodate about 1,000 people, Trump has said. The East Room, currently the largest room in the White House, can fit just over 200 people at most.

Commissioners offered mostly complimentary comments before the votes.

Cook echoed one of Trump's main arguments for adding a larger entertaining space to the White House: It would end the long-standing practice of erecting temporary structures on the South Lawn that Trump describes as tents to host visiting dignitaries for state dinners and other functions.

“Our sitting president has actually designed a very beautiful structure,” Cook said. “The United States just should not be entertaining the world in tents.”

The panel received mainly negative comments from the public

Members of the public were asked to submit written comment by a Wednesday afternoon deadline. Thomas Leubke, the panel’s secretary, said “over 99%” of the more than 2,000 messages it received in the past week from around the country were in opposition to the project.

Leubke tried to summarize the comments for the commissioners.

Some comments cited concerns about Trump’s decision to unilaterally tear down the East Wing, as well as the lack of transparency about who is paying for the ballroom or how contracts were awarded, Leubke said. Comments in support referenced concerns for the image of the United States on the world stage and the need for a larger entertaining space at the White House.

Trump has defended the ballroom in a recent series of social media posts that included drawings of the building. He said in one January post that most of the material needed to build it had been ordered “and there is no practical or reasonable way to go back. IT IS TOO LATE!”

The commission met Thursday over Zoom and heard from Shalom Baranes, the lead architect, and Rick Parisi, the landscape architect. Both described a series of images and sketches of the ballroom and the grounds as they would appear after the project is completed.

Trump has said the ballroom would cost about $400 million and be paid for with private donations. To date, the White House has only released an incomplete list of donors.

A lawsuit against the project is still pending

The National Trust for Historic Preservation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-sued-preservationists-76dc3bbea28257e79f8becd487d2c4d7">has sued</a>&nbsp;in federal court to halt construction. A ruling in the case is pending.

In comments it submitted to the commission, the privately funded group recommended that the size of the ballroom be reduced to “accommodate and respect the primary historic importance of the original Executive Residence.”

At&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ballroom-white-house-east-wing-48c6630d2e81adad1793e25f8e447117">the commission's January meeting</a>, some commissioners had questioned Baranes, Trump's architect, about the “immense” design and scale of the project even as they broadly endorsed Trump's vision. On Thursday, Baranes described changes he has since made to the design, and the commissioners said they welcomed the adjustments.

The ballroom project is scheduled for additional discussion at a March 5 meeting of the National Capital Planning Commission, which is led by a top White House aide. This panel heard an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-commission-review-3dd5e3c1b2475d1f39843b9193572576">initial presentation about the project</a>&nbsp;in January.

This story has been corrected to reflect that the ballroom was approved by six of the seven commissioners and that one commission did not vote because he was the initial architect on the project.

 Commission OKs Trump's White House ballroom plan

President Trump nominates KBI Director for vacancy on U.S. District Court

The City of Hutchinson’s Downtown Revitalization Director was arrested twice this week, according to Reno County booking and court records.&nbsp;

Reno County Detention Center records show that Scott Andrew Cooley was first booked Sunday, Feb. 15, on requested charges of driving under the influence, second conviction; incapable of safely driving; and&nbsp;operating&nbsp;a motor vehicle without a required ignition interlock device during a restriction.&nbsp;

Cooley was booked again Wednesday after a probation arrest and detain warrant was issued. Court documents&nbsp;indicate&nbsp;the warrant was filed by his court services officer following the Feb. 15 arrest. The order alleges Cooley violated the terms of his probation by being arrested for DUI and by&nbsp;possessing&nbsp;a bottle of Seagram’s gin.&nbsp;

Cooley’s probation stemmed from a municipal appeal of a Dec. 12, 2023, conviction in Hutchinson Municipal Court, where he was found guilty of driving under the influence.&nbsp;

According to Reno County District Court records, Cooley entered into a plea agreement on Sept. 17, 2025. He was sentenced on Sept. 19,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;to&nbsp;90 days&nbsp;in the custody of the Reno County Detention Center, with five days to be served before probation due to a medical condition. The court also imposed a $1,250 fine&nbsp;for the charge&nbsp;and an&nbsp;additional&nbsp;$100 fine for interference with law enforcement. He was serving six months of probation at the time of the recent arrest.&nbsp;

The City of Hutchinson announced in January that Cooley had joined the city as its Downtown Revitalization Manager, effective Jan. 5. The position was created to provide focused leadership for the downtown area and to advance implementation of the city’s Downtown Master Plan.&nbsp;

In that role, Cooley&nbsp;was responsible for&nbsp;leading day-to-day downtown revitalization efforts, including business support, redevelopment, coordination and oversight of the city’s Kansas Main Street Program.&nbsp;

Hutch Post has requested the status of Cooly’s employment.&nbsp;City officials tell us that Cooley is no longer employed by the City of Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Hutchinson Downtown Revitalization Director arrested twice this week

The weather allowed both ground and aerial firefighting efforts to make good progress containing the fires in southwest Kansas and the Oklahoma panhandle on Wednesday, according to&nbsp;Mark Engholm,&nbsp;State Fire Marshal of Kansas.

On Thursday, the state has also pre-positioned a task force in southeast Kansas due to forecast Red Flag conditions.

State Fire Marshal: Good progress on containing wildfires in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas sheriff's office detective will be in court Thursday. Shawn McMahon, 57, will attend a preliminary hearing in the courtroom of Judge Tyler Rousch, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; The judge will determine if there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial.

In December 2024, the Wichita Police Department was requested to investigate the conduct of a Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Deputy assigned to the Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit who allegedly failed to thoroughly investigate criminal complaints while serving on a task force investigating internet crimes involving children.

Investigators from the WPD’s Advanced Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) carried out the investigation, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

As a result, the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office charged Detective Shawn McMahon with two counts of Making a False Writing and one count of Interference with Law Enforcement. All of these charges are felonies.&nbsp;McMahon is currently suspended without pay.

Preliminary hearing: Kan. sheriff's detective charged with felony crimes

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Last week, Governor Laura Kelly vetoed House Substitute for Senate Bill 244 that requires those who use bathrooms in government buildings use the bathroom that match their biological sex at birth.   

 On February 18, the Legislature overrode the Governor’s veto.

The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding the overriding of her veto of House Substitute for Senate Bill 244:

“As I said in my&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.governor.ks.gov%2FHome%2FComponents%2FNews%2FNews%2F920%2F55/1/0101019c71ebbca5-d080fc2d-91aa-4ca4-b5ce-faac5e5be697-000000/bAgEqd529f51Of2UCTGhmeXJPzQ2oP3HwC59m2beqIs=445">veto statement</a>, this is a poorly drafted bill with significant, far-reaching consequences.

“Not only will this bill keep brothers from visiting sisters’ dorms and husbands from wives’ shared hospital rooms, it will cost Kansas taxpayers millions of dollars to comply with this very vague legislation.

“It is nothing short of ridiculous that the Legislature is forcing the entire state, every city and town, every school district, every public university to spend taxpayer money on a manufactured problem. Kansans elected them to focus on education, job creation, housing, and grocery costs.”

What Kan. governor said after her veto of bathroom bill  was overridden

LONDON (AP) — U.K. police arrested&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/britain-epstein-andrew-former-prince-arrested-1eabcfff09626fbed29a5920ffe506f9">Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor</a>&nbsp;on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Thames Valley Police, an agency that covers areas west of London, including Mountbatten-Windsor’s former home, said it was “assessing” reports that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-andrew-prince-mountbatten-windsor-friend-7fa8aadad792e66963a1d18d9039235b">former Prince Andrew</a>&nbsp;sent trade reports to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2010.

The assessment followed the release of millions of pages of documents connected to a U.S. investigation of Epstein. Mountbatten-Windsor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-andrew-prince-mountbatten-windsor-friend-7fa8aadad792e66963a1d18d9039235b">features a number of times</a>&nbsp;in the documents.

The police force did not name Mountbatten-Windsor, as is normal under U.K. law. But when asked if he had been arrested, the force pointed to a statement saying that they had arrested a man in his 60s. Mountbatten-Windsor is 66.

“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,’’ the statement said. “We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”

Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in his relationship with Epstein. Last fall, King Charles III&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-scandal-king-charles-monarchy-epstein-33ec8ff4508ef1b36aad7532181245e8">stripped Andrew of his royal titles</a>, including the right to be called a prince, as he tried to insulate the monarchy from the continuing revelations about his younger brother’s relationship with Epstein. Those revelations have tarnished the royal family for more than a decade.

Images circulated online appeared to show unmarked police cars at Mountbatten-Windsor's home, Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, with plainclothes officers appearing to gather outside.

Ex-Prince Andrew arrested over Epstein-linked allegations

KANSAS CITY —When the call came in Sunday afternoon for someone drowning in a lake near Pittman Road and E 43rd, Officers Manley and Hawley raced to the scene, according to a social media report from the Kansas City Missouri Police Department.

The officers found two people in the water, with one deep in the lake, struggling for survival.

Manley and Hawley shed their gear and entered the water, rescuing a young woman.

Manley has been with the department 26 years, while Hawley started her KCPD career four years ago.

🎥KCPD officers rescue woman from drowning 

WASHINGTON – Carter Camacho, 18,&nbsp; of Smyrna, Georgia,&nbsp;was charged in a complaint Wednesday with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm within the United States Capitol Buildings or Grounds in connection to carrying a loaded shotgun onto federal property, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

Camacho made his first appearance in U.S. District Court Wednesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey who scheduled a detention hearing for March 2, 2026.

According to the charging documents, on Feb. 17, 2026, Camacho parked a white Mercedes SUV on Maryland Ave. SE, between First and Third Streets. About 12:07 p.m., Camacho exited the vehicle and ran toward the United States Capitol carrying a firearm while wearing a tactical-style vest and camouflage-style clothing.

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