By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Russell celebrated the near completion of the Flintwood Senior Housing project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday.

Russell Mayor Jim Cross began the ceremony with introductions before attendees toured two of the housing units. He said the project was made possible through a partnership between the city, the county and Housing Opportunities Inc.

"It seemed like it was taking forever. Still not totally done because the weather was a culprit for us, but this project is just the beginning," Cross said.

The senior housing development includes 24 duplex units for residents 55 and older, along with a shared community space available for rent. Callie Miller, executive director of Housing Opportunities, said Flintwood is intended to provide safe and affordable housing for future residents.

"All of our units are wheelchair accessible, so they have wider doorways and hallways," Miller said.

The units are at 326 S. Main St.,&nbsp;facing each other with parking spaces between them.

Housing Opportunities is a nonprofit organization that primarily serves seniors. Miller said at the time of the ceremony, nine units remained available.

While a regular unit features a standard duplex layout with a storm shelter in the garage, the Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant units include lower-pile carpet, lowered countertops and cabinets, and lower light switches.

The bathroom also includes an ADA-compliant shower, with the entire space functioning as a storm shelter.

"Housing Opportunites Inc will be the property manager for this. We will handle all the applications, tenants and maintenance," Miller said.

Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, and Reid Petty, representing Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, also attended the event.

"Flintwood represents something deeply important, the ability for seniors to remain in the community," Bowers said. "I strongly believe that in rural Kansas, housing stability projects like this one protect not only our lives, but our livelihoods, and it must remain a priority."

Waymaster said the project was also made possible by $1.5 million in infrastructure funding from unused American Rescue Plan Act dollars that were reallocated.

"Housing has been one of the overwhelming concerns when we're talking about economic development, especially in rural parts of the state," Waymaster said.

Reid said Moran extended his congratulations to Russell on the achievement.

The development marks Housing Opportunities' 20th project across seven counties. Cross said he hopes to see more housing developments for all Russell residents, from younger adults to seniors.

You can learn more about Housing Opportunities on its <a href="https://www.housingopportunities.net/">website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771615669267.jpeg" alt="Russell, state and Housing Opportunities Inc. officials celebrating the near completion of the Flintwood Senior Housing project with a ribbon-cutting on Friday. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Russell, state and Housing Opportunities Inc. officials celebrating the near completion of the Flintwood Senior Housing project with a ribbon-cutting on Friday. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostRussell celebrated the near completion of the Flintwood Senior Housing project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday.Russell Mayor Jim Cross began the ceremony with introductions before attendees toured two of the housing units. He said the project was made possible through a partnership between the city, the county and Housing Opportunities Inc."It seemed like it was taking forever. Still not totally done because the weather was a culprit for us, but this project is just the beginning," Cross said.The senior housing development includes 24 duplex units for residents 55 and older, along with a shared community space available for rent. Callie Miller, executive director of Housing Opportunities, said Flintwood is intended to provide safe and affordable housing for future residents."All of our units are wheelchair accessible, so they have wider doorways and hallways," Miller said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771615806601.jpeg" alt="The living room space of a regular duplex unit at&nbsp;Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The living room space of a regular duplex unit at&nbsp;Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771615824044.jpeg" alt="The kitchen space of a regular duplex unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The kitchen space of a regular duplex unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771615874192.jpeg" alt="One of the two bedrooms of a regular duplex unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the two bedrooms of a regular duplex unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771615981463.jpeg" alt="A storm shelter with a seat located inside the garage of a regular duplex unit at Flintwood Senior Housing. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A storm shelter with a seat located inside the garage of a regular duplex unit at Flintwood Senior Housing. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The units are at 326 S. Main St.,&nbsp;facing each other with parking spaces between them.Housing Opportunities is a nonprofit organization that primarily serves seniors. Miller said at the time of the ceremony, nine units remained available.While a regular unit features a standard duplex layout with a storm shelter in the garage, the Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant units include lower-pile carpet, lowered countertops and cabinets, and lower light switches.The bathroom also includes an ADA-compliant shower, with the entire space functioning as a storm shelter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771616019195.jpeg" alt="The bathroom of an ADA-compliant unit at&nbsp;Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Washers and dryers are located in the bathrooms of all units. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The bathroom of an ADA-compliant unit at&nbsp;Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Washers and dryers are located in the bathrooms of all units. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771616038922.jpeg" alt="The shower of an ADA-compliant unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The shower of an ADA-compliant unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771616069702.jpeg" alt="The kitchen space of an ADA-compliant unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell with lowered countertops and cabinets. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The kitchen space of an ADA-compliant unit at Flintwood Senior Housing in Russell with lowered countertops and cabinets. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771616206052.jpeg" alt="One of the two bedrooms of an ADA-compliant unit at Flintwood Senior Housing. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>One of the two bedrooms of an ADA-compliant unit at Flintwood Senior Housing. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Housing Opportunites Inc will be the property manager for this. We will handle all the applications, tenants and maintenance," Miller said.Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, and Reid Petty, representing Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, also attended the event."Flintwood represents something deeply important, the ability for seniors to remain in the community," Bowers said. "I strongly believe that in rural Kansas, housing stability projects like this one protect not only our lives, but our livelihoods, and it must remain a priority."Waymaster said the project was also made possible by $1.5 million in infrastructure funding from unused American Rescue Plan Act dollars that were reallocated.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771616243080.jpeg" alt="A Flintwood Senior Housing duplex with two units side by side. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A Flintwood Senior Housing duplex with two units side by side. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771616281009.jpeg" alt="A community space located towards the front entrance of Flintwood Senior Housing that is available for rent by residents. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A community space located towards the front entrance of Flintwood Senior Housing that is available for rent by residents. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Housing has been one of the overwhelming concerns when we're talking about economic development, especially in rural parts of the state," Waymaster said.Reid said Moran extended his congratulations to Russell on the achievement.The development marks Housing Opportunities' 20th project across seven counties. Cross said he hopes to see more housing developments for all Russell residents, from younger adults to seniors.You can learn more about Housing Opportunities on its <a href="https://www.housingopportunities.net/">website</a>.

Russell celebrates arrival of Flintwood Senior Housing project

HAYS - Hays High hosted the 5A West Super Regional in the first year of the new high school. The Indians qualified seven wrestlers for next week's 5A State Tournament. Johnny Rigler and Tanner Geist both won regional championships.

Newton won the team title over Goddard by five and a half points, 178.0 to 172.5. Hays placed sixth with 147.5 points.&nbsp;

Hays had the third most pins on the day with 17.&nbsp;

Rigler opened the 190 pound bracket with a bye the pinned his next three opponents. The first two falls came in the first period, including a 37 second victory in the quarterfinals. Rigler won by fall in the third period to advance to the championship match. His final wrestling match at Hays High School resulted in a 13-6 decision over Jackson Anderson of Hutchinson. it was Rigler's 40th victory on the season.

Tanner Geist won his first three matches by fall. The first two came in the first period, the quickest occurring in the first round at just 58 seconds. Geist defeated his semifinal opponent with a third period pin. He entered the regional tournament ranked fifth in 5A. He defeated the fourth ranked wrestler, Jose Vargas of Emporia, 3-1 in the final for his 40th victory.

Gaven Deneault qualified with a fourth place finish at 106 pounds. He won his first round by fall in just 48 seconds. Deneault then suffered his first defeat on the day by a 13-6 decision in the quarterfinal round. He quickly bounced back with back-to-back first period falls and a 3-1 decision. Deneault lost his third place match to the second ranked 5A wrestler, Dion Brown of Hutchinson, by a 10-5 decision.

Ethan Branaman took the long way to a state qualifying berth at 113 pounds after losing his first round match. Branaman won his first two consolation matches by fall and then the third by a 19-4 technical fall. That victory put Branaman into a state qualifying position and finished 6th on the day.

Grady Lind qualified at 144 pounds. Lind made his way to the semifinal round following a 5-0 decision in the opener and a second period fall in the quarterfinals. Lind lost his semifinal match to the number ranked wrestler in 5A. He then split his last two matches with a 4-1 victory and 5-0 loss.

Archer Amrein's first wrestling season at Hays High resulted in a state berth. Amrein now has 41 victories on the season after picking up three more wins and a fourth place finish on Saturday. Amrein won his first two matches by fall to advance to the semifinals. Like Lind, Amrein fell in the semifinals to the number one ranked wrestler in 5A. Amrein won his next match by injury default and then lost in the third place match to the number two ranked wrestler in the class.

Jaxson Chartier finished runner-up at 215 pounds. Chartier received a bye in the first round and then won in a late first period fall. The semifinal round ended in a heart-stopping 1-0 decision win for the Hays senior. Chartier lost in the championship match to a Western Athletic Conference foe, Trenton Kern of Great Bend, by fall.

Hays Post SportsHAYS - Hays High hosted the 5A West Super Regional in the first year of the new high school. The Indians qualified seven wrestlers for next week's 5A State Tournament. Johnny Rigler and Tanner Geist both won regional championships.Newton won the team title over Goddard by five and a half points, 178.0 to 172.5. Hays placed sixth with 147.5 points.&nbsp;Hays had the third most pins on the day with 17.&nbsp;Rigler opened the 190 pound bracket with a bye the pinned his next three opponents. The first two falls came in the first period, including a 37 second victory in the quarterfinals. Rigler won by fall in the third period to advance to the championship match. His final wrestling match at Hays High School resulted in a 13-6 decision over Jackson Anderson of Hutchinson. it was Rigler's 40th victory on the season.Tanner Geist won his first three matches by fall. The first two came in the first period, the quickest occurring in the first round at just 58 seconds. Geist defeated his semifinal opponent with a third period pin. He entered the regional tournament ranked fifth in 5A. He defeated the fourth ranked wrestler, Jose Vargas of Emporia, 3-1 in the final for his 40th victory.Gaven Deneault qualified with a fourth place finish at 106 pounds. He won his first round by fall in just 48 seconds. Deneault then suffered his first defeat on the day by a 13-6 decision in the quarterfinal round. He quickly bounced back with back-to-back first period falls and a 3-1 decision. Deneault lost his third place match to the second ranked 5A wrestler, Dion Brown of Hutchinson, by a 10-5 decision.Ethan Branaman took the long way to a state qualifying berth at 113 pounds after losing his first round match. Branaman won his first two consolation matches by fall and then the third by a 19-4 technical fall. That victory put Branaman into a state qualifying position and finished 6th on the day.Grady Lind qualified at 144 pounds. Lind made his way to the semifinal round following a 5-0 decision in the opener and a second period fall in the quarterfinals. Lind lost his semifinal match to the number ranked wrestler in 5A. He then split his last two matches with a 4-1 victory and 5-0 loss.Archer Amrein's first wrestling season at Hays High resulted in a state berth. Amrein now has 41 victories on the season after picking up three more wins and a fourth place finish on Saturday. Amrein won his first two matches by fall to advance to the semifinals. Like Lind, Amrein fell in the semifinals to the number one ranked wrestler in 5A. Amrein won his next match by injury default and then lost in the third place match to the number two ranked wrestler in the class.Jaxson Chartier finished runner-up at 215 pounds. Chartier received a bye in the first round and then won in a late first period fall. The semifinal round ended in a heart-stopping 1-0 decision win for the Hays senior. Chartier lost in the championship match to a Western Athletic Conference foe, Trenton Kern of Great Bend, by fall.

🤼‍♂️ Hays qualifies seven for 5A state Rigler, Geist champs

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man who admitted his role in a violent home invasion robbery is going to prison.

On Thursday, Judge Quinton Pittman sentenced 33-year-old Andrew Denning&nbsp;to 11.25 years in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections with 36 months of post release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In November he pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, kidnapping, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, ID theft, theft of property or services, probation violation and numerous drug crimes.

In January of 2024, two victims reported that suspects entered their home in the 1000 block of Ellis Street in Wichita armed with shotguns and handguns, forcing them into a bedroom at gunpoint, according to Wichita Police Department spokesperson Andrew Ford.

The victims were then restrained with zip ties while the suspects stole several electronic devices and three handguns. The victims, who were familiar with the suspects, began searching for their stolen property after the incident. One victim discovered that his phone and vehicle keys were missing and tracked their location to the 13600 block of West Nantucket in Wichita, a residence believed to be associated with one of the suspects.

Wichita Police responded to the Nantucket address, established a perimeter, and attempted to communicate with the occupants. Officers engaged with individuals inside the residence through a Ring doorbell camera, during which an occupant inadvertently activated the speaker. This revealed a conversation indicating the occupants were aware of law enforcement’s presence.

Despite repeated attempts to negotiate, the individuals refused to exit, prompting the activation of the SWAT Team and Crisis Negotiations Team.

While waiting for the search warrant, one suspect exited the residence and was taken into custody without incident. During the subsequent search of the home, two additional suspects were found hiding in the attic and were also taken into custody. Police later arrested a fourth suspect identified as 51-year-old Robert D. Cook.

Andrew Denning, 33; Trinity Cook, 19; George Bos, 62 and Robert D. Cook all of Wichita were charged with aggravated robbery, kidnapping and aggravated burglary, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771696235289.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man who admitted his role in a violent home invasion robbery is going to prison.On Thursday, Judge Quinton Pittman sentenced 33-year-old Andrew Denning&nbsp;to 11.25 years in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections with 36 months of post release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736767770109.png" alt="Denning photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Denning photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>In November he pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, kidnapping, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, ID theft, theft of property or services, probation violation and numerous drug crimes.In January of 2024, two victims reported that suspects entered their home in the 1000 block of Ellis Street in Wichita armed with shotguns and handguns, forcing them into a bedroom at gunpoint, according to Wichita Police Department spokesperson Andrew Ford.The victims were then restrained with zip ties while the suspects stole several electronic devices and three handguns. The victims, who were familiar with the suspects, began searching for their stolen property after the incident. One victim discovered that his phone and vehicle keys were missing and tracked their location to the 13600 block of West Nantucket in Wichita, a residence believed to be associated with one of the suspects.Wichita Police responded to the Nantucket address, established a perimeter, and attempted to communicate with the occupants. Officers engaged with individuals inside the residence through a Ring doorbell camera, during which an occupant inadvertently activated the speaker. This revealed a conversation indicating the occupants were aware of law enforcement’s presence.Despite repeated attempts to negotiate, the individuals refused to exit, prompting the activation of the SWAT Team and Crisis Negotiations Team.While waiting for the search warrant, one suspect exited the residence and was taken into custody without incident. During the subsequent search of the home, two additional suspects were found hiding in the attic and were also taken into custody. Police later arrested a fourth suspect identified as 51-year-old Robert D. Cook.Andrew Denning, 33; Trinity Cook, 19; George Bos, 62 and Robert D. Cook all of Wichita were charged with aggravated robbery, kidnapping and aggravated burglary, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Suspect in violent Kan. home invasion robbery is going to prison

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Donovan Atwell had 26 points with six 3-pointers, Christian Anderson scored 21 and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 13</a>&nbsp;Texas Tech beat Kansas State 100-72 on Saturday in the first game for the Red Raiders since standout post JT Toppin's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/toppin-texas-tech-acl-db87460d6a72580c11c7fc256156061f">season-ending knee injury</a>.

Texas Tech (20-7, 10-4 Big 12) maintained a double-digit lead after making nine consecutive shots, including three 3s in a row by Atwell, during a 26-10 run in just under seven minutes for a 40-20 lead with 6:20 left in the first half.

Anderson, who also had nine assists, scored 16 of his points after halftime, when LeJuan Watts had 13 of his 19.

The Red Raiders reached 20 wins for the third season in a row. The school record is four, with coach Bob Knight from 2001-02 to 2004-05.

PJ Haggerty had 17 points and Nate Johnson 15 points for Kansas State (11-16, 2-12), which was playing its second game since a coaching change. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/baylor-kansas-state-0697fac96a6dbedd6e199b0b1ebfe789">Wildcats beat Baylor 90-74</a>&nbsp;at home Tuesday, two days after coach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-state-basketball-jerome-tang-fired-661654e2e421d697212fcdfb30a3f534">Jerome Tang was fired</a>.

The Wildcats led only twice at Tech, when Johnson made their first two shots of the game, a 3 and then a jumper that made it 5-3.

Toppin, the preseason AP All-America selection, averaged 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds a game while having 16 double-doubles before tearing the ACL in his right knee in a 72-67 loss at Arizona State on Tuesday night. He sat at the end of the Tech bench Saturday.

Sophomore forward Luke Bamgboye, a 6-foot-11 transfer from VCU, made his fifth start for the Red Raiders, his first since Dec. 7. He scored 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting while also having six rebounds and three blocked shots in 21 minutes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771717392709.jpeg" alt="Texas Tech forward Lejuan Watts (3) drives to the basket ahead of Kansas State guard Mobi Ikegwuruka during the first half in an NCAA college basketball game, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Annie Rice)" />
 <figcaption>Texas Tech forward Lejuan Watts (3) drives to the basket ahead of Kansas State guard Mobi Ikegwuruka during the first half in an NCAA college basketball game, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Annie Rice)</figcaption>
 </figure>LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Donovan Atwell had 26 points with six 3-pointers, Christian Anderson scored 21 and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 13</a>&nbsp;Texas Tech beat Kansas State 100-72 on Saturday in the first game for the Red Raiders since standout post JT Toppin's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/toppin-texas-tech-acl-db87460d6a72580c11c7fc256156061f">season-ending knee injury</a>.Texas Tech (20-7, 10-4 Big 12) maintained a double-digit lead after making nine consecutive shots, including three 3s in a row by Atwell, during a 26-10 run in just under seven minutes for a 40-20 lead with 6:20 left in the first half.Anderson, who also had nine assists, scored 16 of his points after halftime, when LeJuan Watts had 13 of his 19.The Red Raiders reached 20 wins for the third season in a row. The school record is four, with coach Bob Knight from 2001-02 to 2004-05.PJ Haggerty had 17 points and Nate Johnson 15 points for Kansas State (11-16, 2-12), which was playing its second game since a coaching change. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/baylor-kansas-state-0697fac96a6dbedd6e199b0b1ebfe789">Wildcats beat Baylor 90-74</a>&nbsp;at home Tuesday, two days after coach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-state-basketball-jerome-tang-fired-661654e2e421d697212fcdfb30a3f534">Jerome Tang was fired</a>.The Wildcats led only twice at Tech, when Johnson made their first two shots of the game, a 3 and then a jumper that made it 5-3.Toppin, the preseason AP All-America selection, averaged 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds a game while having 16 double-doubles before tearing the ACL in his right knee in a 72-67 loss at Arizona State on Tuesday night. He sat at the end of the Tech bench Saturday.Sophomore forward Luke Bamgboye, a 6-foot-11 transfer from VCU, made his fifth start for the Red Raiders, his first since Dec. 7. He scored 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting while also having six rebounds and three blocked shots in 21 minutes.

🏀Atwell, Anderson lead Texas Tech to win over K-State

TOPEKA, Kan. – Fort Hays State played only one game on Saturday at the Washburn Invitational. The first contest against Rockhurst was canceled due to lingering weather-related issues from the night before. The Tigers fell in their only contest of the day to Drury University by a score of 3-1. The Tigers are now 3-5 overall for the season.

Fort Hays State took the early advantage in the game with its lone run in the third inning. Lilly Mohr and Kaydawn Haag singles, a Hannah Green sacrifice bunt, and a Peyton Shepard RBI single manufactured the run.

FHSU pitcher Solana Carpenter kept the Panthers hitless through three innings and gave up just one hit in the fourth. She ran into trouble in the fifth as three extra-base hits did all of the scoring damage for Drury. Kaley Adzick doubled, Reece Anderson tripled her home to tie the game, and then Emma Niemczyk homered to put the Panthers up 3-1. Carpenter threw a complete game, allowing six hits with three strikeouts.

Adzick, the pitcher for Drury, moved to 2-1 on the season scattering five hits with five strikeouts.

Fort Hays State is scheduled to play one more game at the Washburn Invitational on Sunday. The Tigers will take on Minnesota State at 11 a.m., which is an hour later than the original start time posted for the weekend. The game will be at Gahnstrom Field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771741638618.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsTOPEKA, Kan. – Fort Hays State played only one game on Saturday at the Washburn Invitational. The first contest against Rockhurst was canceled due to lingering weather-related issues from the night before. The Tigers fell in their only contest of the day to Drury University by a score of 3-1. The Tigers are now 3-5 overall for the season.Fort Hays State took the early advantage in the game with its lone run in the third inning. Lilly Mohr and Kaydawn Haag singles, a Hannah Green sacrifice bunt, and a Peyton Shepard RBI single manufactured the run.FHSU pitcher Solana Carpenter kept the Panthers hitless through three innings and gave up just one hit in the fourth. She ran into trouble in the fifth as three extra-base hits did all of the scoring damage for Drury. Kaley Adzick doubled, Reece Anderson tripled her home to tie the game, and then Emma Niemczyk homered to put the Panthers up 3-1. Carpenter threw a complete game, allowing six hits with three strikeouts.Adzick, the pitcher for Drury, moved to 2-1 on the season scattering five hits with five strikeouts.Fort Hays State is scheduled to play one more game at the Washburn Invitational on Sunday. The Tigers will take on Minnesota State at 11 a.m., which is an hour later than the original start time posted for the weekend. The game will be at Gahnstrom Field.

🥎 Tigers fall to Drury on Saturday at Washburn Invitational

TOPEKA - The Kansas State High School Activities Association
has released Sub-State brackets for Classes 2A Saturday.

Quarterfinal games will be played at the higher seed on
Thursday, February 26 (Girls) and Friday, February 27
(Boys). Semifinals will also be played at the higher
seed on Tuesday, March 3 (Girls) and Wednesday,
March 4 (Boys). The finals will be played at the
predetermined site on Friday, March 6 (Girls) and Saturday, March 7 (Boys). Each
predetermined site will have two finals on both of those days. Start time for
the first game on Saturday, March 7 is 5 p.m.

GIRLS
 Class 2A - Smith Center
 Sub-State 1
 Thursday, 2/26 - 6:00 p.m.
 [16] Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic (1-20) at [1] Ellinwood (22-1)
 [9] Rawlins County HS (12-9) at [8] Smith Center (13-9)
 [13] Plainville (5-18) at [4] Medicine Lodge (15-5)
 [12] Sterling (9-13) at [5] Thomas More Prep-Marian (14-7)

Sub-State 2
 Thursday, 2/26 - 6:00 p.m.
 [15] Sublette (3-20) vs. [2] Hoxie (22-1) - Colby Event Center
 [10] Syracuse (13-10) at [7] Stanton County (14-9)
 [14] Ell-Saline (4-17) at [3] Oakley (19-4)
 [11] Trego Community (11-12) at [6] Wichita County (13-8)

BOYS
 Class 2A - Smith Center
Sub-State 1
 Friday, 2/27 - 6:00 p.m.
 [16] Hoxie (3-19) at [1] Sterling (22-0)
 [9] Sublette (12-11) at [8] Rawlins County (12-9) - Colby Event Center
 [13] Oakley (9-14) a [4] Ell-Saline (16-5)
 [12] Wichita County (10-12) at [5] Trego (16-6)

Sub-State 2
 Friday, 2/27 - 6:00 p.m.
 [15] Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic (7-14) at [2] Stanton County (18-5)
 [10] Syracuse (11-12) at [7] Medicine Lodge (13-8)
 [14] Smith Center (9-14) at [3] Thomas More Prep-Marian (17-5)
 [11] Ellinwood (11-12) at [6] Plainville (16-7)

Hays Post SportsTOPEKA - The Kansas State High School Activities Association
has released Sub-State brackets for Classes 2A Saturday.Quarterfinal games will be played at the higher seed on
Thursday, February 26 (Girls) and Friday, February 27
(Boys). Semifinals will also be played at the higher
seed on Tuesday, March 3 (Girls) and Wednesday,
March 4 (Boys). The finals will be played at the
predetermined site on Friday, March 6 (Girls) and Saturday, March 7 (Boys). Each
predetermined site will have two finals on both of those days. Start time for
the first game on Saturday, March 7 is 5 p.m.GIRLS
 Class 2A - Smith Center
 Sub-State 1
 Thursday, 2/26 - 6:00 p.m.
 [16] Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic (1-20) at [1] Ellinwood (22-1)
 [9] Rawlins County HS (12-9) at [8] Smith Center (13-9)
 [13] Plainville (5-18) at [4] Medicine Lodge (15-5)
 [12] Sterling (9-13) at [5] Thomas More Prep-Marian (14-7)Sub-State 2
 Thursday, 2/26 - 6:00 p.m.
 [15] Sublette (3-20) vs. [2] Hoxie (22-1) - Colby Event Center
 [10] Syracuse (13-10) at [7] Stanton County (14-9)
 [14] Ell-Saline (4-17) at [3] Oakley (19-4)
 [11] Trego Community (11-12) at [6] Wichita County (13-8)BOYS
 Class 2A - Smith Center
Sub-State 1
 Friday, 2/27 - 6:00 p.m.
 [16] Hoxie (3-19) at [1] Sterling (22-0)
 [9] Sublette (12-11) at [8] Rawlins County (12-9) - Colby Event Center
 [13] Oakley (9-14) a [4] Ell-Saline (16-5)
 [12] Wichita County (10-12) at [5] Trego (16-6)Sub-State 2
 Friday, 2/27 - 6:00 p.m.
 [15] Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic (7-14) at [2] Stanton County (18-5)
 [10] Syracuse (11-12) at [7] Medicine Lodge (13-8)
 [14] Smith Center (9-14) at [3] Thomas More Prep-Marian (17-5)
 [11] Ellinwood (11-12) at [6] Plainville (16-7)

🏀 TMP-Marian boys and girls get sub-state home games

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-l-price">MICHELLE L. PRICE</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Saturday that he was raising the global tariff he wants to impose to 15%, up from 10% he had announced a day earlier.

Trump said in a social media post that he was making the decision “Based on a thorough, detailed, and complete review of the ridiculous, poorly written, and extraordinarily anti-American decision on Tariffs issued yesterday,” by the U.S. Supreme Court.

After the court ruled he didn’t have the emergency power to impost many sweeping tariffs, Trump signed an executive order on Friday night that enabled him to bypass Congress and impose a 10% tax on imports from around the world. The catch is that those tariffs would be limited to just 150 days, unless they are extended legislatively.

Trump’s post significantly ratcheting up a global tax on imports to the U.S. yet again was the latest sign that despite the court’s check, the Republican president was intent on continuing to wield in an unpredictable manner his favorite tool to for the economy and to apply global pressure. Trump’s shifting announcements over the last year that he was raising and sometimes lowering tariffs with little notice jolted markets and rattled nations.

Under the order Trump signed Friday night, the 10% tariff was scheduled to take effect starting Feb. 24. The White House did not immediately respond to a message inquiring when the president would sign an updated order.

In addition to the temporary tariffs that Trump wants to set at 15%, the president said Friday that he was also pursuing tariffs through other sections of federal law which require an investigation by the Commerce Department.

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/michelle-l-price">MICHELLE L. PRICE</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Saturday that he was raising the global tariff he wants to impose to 15%, up from 10% he had announced a day earlier.Trump said in a social media post that he was making the decision “Based on a thorough, detailed, and complete review of the ridiculous, poorly written, and extraordinarily anti-American decision on Tariffs issued yesterday,” by the U.S. Supreme Court.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/PwhYmplV3z">pic.twitter.com/PwhYmplV3z</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2025243382612738548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Keep calm. <a href="https://t.co/Mj5ptXqPxT">pic.twitter.com/Mj5ptXqPxT</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2024989115800764736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After the court ruled he didn’t have the emergency power to impost many sweeping tariffs, Trump signed an executive order on Friday night that enabled him to bypass Congress and impose a 10% tax on imports from around the world. The catch is that those tariffs would be limited to just 150 days, unless they are extended legislatively.Trump’s post significantly ratcheting up a global tax on imports to the U.S. yet again was the latest sign that despite the court’s check, the Republican president was intent on continuing to wield in an unpredictable manner his favorite tool to for the economy and to apply global pressure. Trump’s shifting announcements over the last year that he was raising and sometimes lowering tariffs with little notice jolted markets and rattled nations.Under the order Trump signed Friday night, the 10% tariff was scheduled to take effect starting Feb. 24. The White House did not immediately respond to a message inquiring when the president would sign an updated order.In addition to the temporary tariffs that Trump wants to set at 15%, the president said Friday that he was also pursuing tariffs through other sections of federal law which require an investigation by the Commerce Department.

President Trump to impose 15% tariff, up from 10% he announced after Supreme Court decision

BUNKER HILL — The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will provide live coverage of the 2026 Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Class 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships. 

The event is begins at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27 through the semi-finals, and continues Sat., Feb. 28 at 9 a.m.&nbsp;at Gross Memorial Coliseum on the campus of Fort Hays State University, Hays.

Smoky Hills PBS will once again showcase both boys' and girls' competitions, continuing a long-standing commitment to local sports and its tradition of bringing live broadcast coverage of high school sports to viewers across central and western Kansas.

Every match will be broadcast live, co-hosted by Eagle Radio's Mike Holliday. You can find&nbsp;3-2-1A and Hays High School state wrestling results on <a href="https://hayspost.com/">Hays Post</a>.&nbsp;

A rebroadcast of the championship finals will air on&nbsp;Sunday, March 1&nbsp;at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Our production crew and our many volunteers take great pride in delivering live, reliable coverage of this championship every year," said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director at Smoky Hills PBS. "Covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships is about celebrating the athletes, the schools, and the communities that support them."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770910761557.png" alt="Smoky Hils PBS" />
 <figcaption>Smoky Hils PBS</figcaption>
 </figure>Smoky Hils PBSBUNKER HILL — The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will provide live coverage of the 2026 Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Class 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships. The event is begins at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27 through the semi-finals, and continues Sat., Feb. 28 at 9 a.m.&nbsp;at Gross Memorial Coliseum on the campus of Fort Hays State University, Hays.Smoky Hills PBS will once again showcase both boys' and girls' competitions, continuing a long-standing commitment to local sports and its tradition of bringing live broadcast coverage of high school sports to viewers across central and western Kansas.Every match will be broadcast live, co-hosted by Eagle Radio's Mike Holliday. You can find&nbsp;3-2-1A and Hays High School state wrestling results on <a href="https://hayspost.com/">Hays Post</a>.&nbsp;A rebroadcast of the championship finals will air on&nbsp;Sunday, March 1&nbsp;at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Our production crew and our many volunteers take great pride in delivering live, reliable coverage of this championship every year," said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director at Smoky Hills PBS. "Covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships is about celebrating the athletes, the schools, and the communities that support them."

3-2-1A state wrestling championships to air live on Smoky Hills PBS

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Chandler Reich, Hays Arts Council executive director, and Brittney Squire, board president,&nbsp; about the arts center renovations and upcoming events on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=8w3c2-1a4c3c9-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300%22 loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
Podbean Player
 </div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Chandler Reich, Hays Arts Council executive director, and Brittney Squire, board president,&nbsp; about the arts center renovations and upcoming events on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council renovations, upcoming events

Officers with the Hutchinson Police Department responded to a reported shooting near 4th Avenue and Whiteside Street shortly after 8:15 p.m. Friday.

Dayton Gates confirmed officers were dispatched to a shooting call in the area. When officers arrived at the K-Go convenience store, they located a female victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

The victim was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Her condition has not been released.

MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;Officers with the Hutchinson Police Department responded to a reported shooting near 4th Avenue and Whiteside Street shortly after 8:15 p.m. Friday.Dayton Gates confirmed officers were dispatched to a shooting call in the area. When officers arrived at the K-Go convenience store, they located a female victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.The victim was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Her condition has not been released.

Police: Kan. woman wounded in shooting at convenience store

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the 24/7 Travel Plaza development on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Two economic development incentives requested from the city of Hays for a planned full-service 24/7 Travel Plaza and convenience store north of Interstate 70 are a good investment, said Mason Ruder, mayor, at Thursday's city commission work session.

"I was looking at the rate of return for the city of Hays. It's almost 2,200%," Ruder said.&nbsp;

Commissioner Sandy Jacobs said, "It's a really exciting project, and I'm ready to see what it does to that interchange with some alternate routes into town.

"I happen to believe it's going to be a really busy interchange as people really get in their brains that that's the way you get down to the university." Shaun Musil, commissioner, expects to see more business develop in the area over time.&nbsp;

"It's going to take a few years, but I think it's going to be a big part of our community and bring in more sales tax," he said.

Commissioners unanimously agreed to move to next week's meeting two resolutions for public hearings, one for a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) project plan and the other for a Community Improvement District (CID).

The financing district would capture all incremental property tax revenues within the TIF District, but&nbsp;no sales taxes, in line with the city’s economic&nbsp;development policy. No bonds would be issued.

The developer,&nbsp;Triplett, Inc., Salina, estimates that the TIF&nbsp;would generate $4.5 million during its 20-year life for TIF-eligible expenses on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Within&nbsp;the improvement district, a 2% CID sales tax would be imposed in addition to the city's current 2.25% sales tax.&nbsp;

The CID sales tax revenues would be used to reimburse the developer on a pay-as-you-go&nbsp;basis for CID-eligible expenses, primarily related to the private construction costs of the&nbsp;Travel Store, gas pumps and related private improvements.

The developer estimates the CID sales tax would&nbsp;generate about $2 million to fund CID-eligible expenses during its 22-year life.&nbsp;

Total project cost is estimated at $11 million.&nbsp;

Triplett already operates a small 24/7 Travel Store in Hays at 3601 Vine St., south of the interstate Exit 159.&nbsp;

Commissioners also moved on two rezoning requests on East 27th Street.

The first request is to rezone property at 2460 E. 27th St. from an agricultural district to a light industrial district.&nbsp;

The property is owned by L&amp;A Enterprises. The owner wants the zoning change in order to expand services.

The second rezoning request is for the adjacent property at 2470 E. 27th St., owned by Josh Ziegler, to change the designation from general commercial district to&nbsp;light industrial district.&nbsp;

Ziegler owns and operates <a href="https://www.tsbstorage.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23323755535&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAokUTqCRaxeubmKyusoso_RcCp8Ue&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAl-_JBhBjEiwAn3rN7Uu-Tmxv4JVtdjMi4Fbm4GUE55Gcd4ji0N4oSpadTrSohYTt32qBghoCp2cQAvD_BwE">T.S.B. Storage</a> on&nbsp;the property.

The Hays Area Planning Commission has already approved both requests.&nbsp;

Mayor Ruder called a 30-minute executive session to include the city commissioners for discussion of personnel matters. No action was taken.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771599828156.png" alt="TIF and CID map for the planned location of 24-7 Travel Plaza and convenience store north of Interstate 70, Exit 157.&nbsp; City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>TIF and CID map for the planned location of 24-7 Travel Plaza and convenience store north of Interstate 70, Exit 157.&nbsp; City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=frsri-1a4f831-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the 24/7 Travel Plaza development on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.By BECKY KISER Hays PostTwo economic development incentives requested from the city of Hays for a planned full-service 24/7 Travel Plaza and convenience store north of Interstate 70 are a good investment, said Mason Ruder, mayor, at Thursday's city commission work session."I was looking at the rate of return for the city of Hays. It's almost 2,200%," Ruder said.&nbsp;Commissioner Sandy Jacobs said, "It's a really exciting project, and I'm ready to see what it does to that interchange with some alternate routes into town."I happen to believe it's going to be a really busy interchange as people really get in their brains that that's the way you get down to the university." Shaun Musil, commissioner, expects to see more business develop in the area over time.&nbsp;"It's going to take a few years, but I think it's going to be a big part of our community and bring in more sales tax," he said.Commissioners unanimously agreed to move to next week's meeting two resolutions for public hearings, one for a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) project plan and the other for a Community Improvement District (CID).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771602449394.png" alt="24-7&nbsp; Travel Plaza TIF District eligible expenses" />
 <figcaption>24-7&nbsp; Travel Plaza TIF District eligible expenses</figcaption>
 </figure>The financing district would capture all incremental property tax revenues within the TIF District, but&nbsp;no sales taxes, in line with the city’s economic&nbsp;development policy. No bonds would be issued.The developer,&nbsp;Triplett, Inc., Salina, estimates that the TIF&nbsp;would generate $4.5 million during its 20-year life for TIF-eligible expenses on a pay-as-you-go basis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771602618336.png" alt="24-7 Travel Plaza CID eligible expenses" />
 <figcaption>24-7 Travel Plaza CID eligible expenses</figcaption>
 </figure>Within&nbsp;the improvement district, a 2% CID sales tax would be imposed in addition to the city's current 2.25% sales tax.&nbsp;The CID sales tax revenues would be used to reimburse the developer on a pay-as-you-go&nbsp;basis for CID-eligible expenses, primarily related to the private construction costs of the&nbsp;Travel Store, gas pumps and related private improvements.The developer estimates the CID sales tax would&nbsp;generate about $2 million to fund CID-eligible expenses during its 22-year life.&nbsp;Total project cost is estimated at $11 million.&nbsp;Triplett already operates a small 24/7 Travel Store in Hays at 3601 Vine St., south of the interstate Exit 159.&nbsp;Rezoning requestsCommissioners also moved on two rezoning requests on East 27th Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771603670597.png" alt="L&amp;A Enterprises, 2460 E. 27th St. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>L&amp;A Enterprises, 2460 E. 27th St. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The first request is to rezone property at 2460 E. 27th St. from an agricultural district to a light industrial district.&nbsp;The property is owned by L&amp;A Enterprises. The owner wants the zoning change in order to expand services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771603757318.png" alt="T.S.B. Storage, 2470 E. 27th St. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>T.S.B. Storage, 2470 E. 27th St. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The second rezoning request is for the adjacent property at 2470 E. 27th St., owned by Josh Ziegler, to change the designation from general commercial district to&nbsp;light industrial district.&nbsp; Ziegler owns and operates <a href="https://www.tsbstorage.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23323755535&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAokUTqCRaxeubmKyusoso_RcCp8Ue&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAl-_JBhBjEiwAn3rN7Uu-Tmxv4JVtdjMi4Fbm4GUE55Gcd4ji0N4oSpadTrSohYTt32qBghoCp2cQAvD_BwE">T.S.B. Storage</a> on&nbsp;the property.The Hays Area Planning Commission has already approved both requests.&nbsp;Executive sessionMayor Ruder called a 30-minute executive session to include the city commissioners for discussion of personnel matters. No action was taken.

🎙 Plans moving forward for I-70 travel plaza north of Hays

Prescribed burning for rural homeowners is the topic of this Hays Post Podcast with Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension agent, and Becky Kiser, news reporter. A program will be offered Feb. 26 in Hays.&nbsp;

A look at the "Crop Talk" online seminar series is also reviewed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Hays Post Podcast: Prescribed burning for rural homeowners, Crop Talk seminars upcoming" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=k87rm-1a4de9c-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Prescribed burning for rural homeowners is the topic of this Hays Post Podcast with Stacy Campbell, Cottonwood Extension agent, and Becky Kiser, news reporter. A program will be offered Feb. 26 in Hays.&nbsp;A look at the "Crop Talk" online seminar series is also reviewed.

🎙 Post Podcast: CAMPBELL: Prescribed burning for rural homeowners, Crop Talk

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post Sports

NORTON, Kan. — The TMP-Marian Monarchs basketball teams closed out the regular season Friday night with a pair of road wins over the Norton Blue Jays.

GIRLS: TMP 52, Norton 25 The TMP Lady Monarchs (14-7, 8-2 MCL) held the Norton Lady Jays to just two field goals in both the second and fourth quarters while building a double-digit lead in a 52-25 victory.

Claire Schippers opened the game with the first of her two 3-pointers and finished with a career-high 20 points as the Monarchs raced out to a 9-3 lead.

Norton closed the gap to four in the final seconds of the first quarter when Paige Koenigsman connected on a deep 3-pointer, cutting TMP’s lead to 12-8.

Koenigsman’s 3-pointer sparked a 31-5 run that spanned the entire second quarter and half of the third. TMP led 40-13 with four minutes remaining in the third quarter.

With a running clock in effect, TMP secured the 52-25 win.

Schippers led all scorers with 20 points.

The TMP girls will host a first-round substate game next Thursday.

BOYS:&nbsp; TMP 70, Norton 68 Grant Nehls scored back-to-back field goals in the final seconds Friday night, helping the Monarchs clinch the MCL regular-season championship and extend their winning streak to nine games with a 70-68 victory.

The teams traded the lead back and forth seven times in the first half and were tied nine times before TMP closed the half with a 39-30 advantage.

The Monarchs (17-5, 10-0 MCL) led by nine in the third quarter, but Norton chipped away at the deficit. After trailing by as many as nine, the Blue Jays pulled within four at 55-51 entering the fourth.

Norton took a 68-66 lead with less than 30 seconds remaining, converting four of five free throws, but the Monarchs answered.

With 24 seconds left, TMP got the ball to Grant Nehls in the post. He scored inside to tie the game at 68 and drew a foul with 13 seconds remaining.

Nehls missed the free throw, but Ian Nehls tipped the ball, and Grant Nehls secured the rebound before being tied up. The alternate possession arrow favored TMP.

On the ensuing inbound, TMP again found Nehls, who scored with just under eight seconds remaining.

Norton called a timeout but missed an errant 3-point attempt on its final possession as the Monarchs held on for the 70-68 win.

Grant Nehls led all scorers with 17 points, and Ty Schmeidler added 16.

The TMP boys will host a first-round substate game next Friday.

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post SportsNORTON, Kan. — The TMP-Marian Monarchs basketball teams closed out the regular season Friday night with a pair of road wins over the Norton Blue Jays.GIRLS: TMP 52, Norton 25 The TMP Lady Monarchs (14-7, 8-2 MCL) held the Norton Lady Jays to just two field goals in both the second and fourth quarters while building a double-digit lead in a 52-25 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270589962&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-coach-post-v-norton" title="TMP WBKB Coach Post v Norton Feb 20, 206" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Coach Post v Norton Feb 20, 206</a></div></div>Claire Schippers opened the game with the first of her two 3-pointers and finished with a career-high 20 points as the Monarchs raced out to a 9-3 lead.Norton closed the gap to four in the final seconds of the first quarter when Paige Koenigsman connected on a deep 3-pointer, cutting TMP’s lead to 12-8.Koenigsman’s 3-pointer sparked a 31-5 run that spanned the entire second quarter and half of the third. TMP led 40-13 with four minutes remaining in the third quarter.With a running clock in effect, TMP secured the 52-25 win.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270590067&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-highlights-v-norton" title="TMP WBKB Highlights v Norton Feb 20, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights v Norton Feb 20, 2026</a></div></div>Schippers led all scorers with 20 points.The TMP girls will host a first-round substate game next Thursday.BOYS:&nbsp; TMP 70, Norton 68 Grant Nehls scored back-to-back field goals in the final seconds Friday night, helping the Monarchs clinch the MCL regular-season championship and extend their winning streak to nine games with a 70-68 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270590886&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-mbkb-coach-post-v-norton" title="TMP MBKB Coach Post v Norton Feb 20, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB Coach Post v Norton Feb 20, 2026</a></div></div>The teams traded the lead back and forth seven times in the first half and were tied nine times before TMP closed the half with a 39-30 advantage.The Monarchs (17-5, 10-0 MCL) led by nine in the third quarter, but Norton chipped away at the deficit. After trailing by as many as nine, the Blue Jays pulled within four at 55-51 entering the fourth.Norton took a 68-66 lead with less than 30 seconds remaining, converting four of five free throws, but the Monarchs answered.With 24 seconds left, TMP got the ball to Grant Nehls in the post. He scored inside to tie the game at 68 and drew a foul with 13 seconds remaining.Nehls missed the free throw, but Ian Nehls tipped the ball, and Grant Nehls secured the rebound before being tied up. The alternate possession arrow favored TMP.On the ensuing inbound, TMP again found Nehls, who scored with just under eight seconds remaining.Norton called a timeout but missed an errant 3-point attempt on its final possession as the Monarchs held on for the 70-68 win.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270590553&color=%2337669a&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-mbkb-highlights-v-norton-1" title="TMP MBKB Highlights v Norton Feb 20, 2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB Highlights v Norton Feb 20, 2026</a></div></div>Grant Nehls led all scorers with 17 points, and Ty Schmeidler added 16.The TMP boys will host a first-round substate game next Friday.

🏀 Monarchs close out regular season with sweep of Blue Jays 

Just before 2p.m. Thursday, the Junction City Fire Department responded to reports of a fire at The Bluffs apartment complex, at 1810 Caroline Avenue, Building O in Junction City, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, crews observed heavy smoke and visible flames coming from second- and third-floor balconies on the front (east) side of the building. Fire had extended into the roof structure on the east side of the complex.

Due to the size and complexity of the incident, mutual aid was requested from Fort Riley Fire for a ladder truck, and Geary County Fire Dept. responded with an additional engine for support. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior fire attack while additional crews conducted a primary search of the structure and assisted residents with evacuation. Because of the large apartment complex, Junction City Police Department personnel also assisted with precautionary evacuations on the non-fire side of the building.

The fire was brought under control at approximately 2:56 P.M.

Building O consists of 34 apartment units. A total of 17 units were affected by the fire, with 7 units determined to be a total loss. Twenty-four occupants were displaced as a result of the incident. EMS personnel evaluated individuals on scene, and no serious injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is currently undetermined. The investigation is being conducted by the Junction City Fire Department with assistance from the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Initial damage estimates are approximately $700,000 in fire and smoke damage. The estimated total value of Building O is approximately $3.4 million.

The American Red Cross and Fort Riley military personnel assisted displaced residents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771550654784.jpeg" alt="Photo Junction City Fire Dept." />
 <figcaption>Photo Junction City Fire Dept.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey Terrill JC PostJust before 2p.m. Thursday, the Junction City Fire Department responded to reports of a fire at The Bluffs apartment complex, at 1810 Caroline Avenue, Building O in Junction City, according to a media release.Upon arrival, crews observed heavy smoke and visible flames coming from second- and third-floor balconies on the front (east) side of the building. Fire had extended into the roof structure on the east side of the complex.Due to the size and complexity of the incident, mutual aid was requested from Fort Riley Fire for a ladder truck, and Geary County Fire Dept. responded with an additional engine for support. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior fire attack while additional crews conducted a primary search of the structure and assisted residents with evacuation. Because of the large apartment complex, Junction City Police Department personnel also assisted with precautionary evacuations on the non-fire side of the building.The fire was brought under control at approximately 2:56 P.M.Building O consists of 34 apartment units. A total of 17 units were affected by the fire, with 7 units determined to be a total loss. Twenty-four occupants were displaced as a result of the incident. EMS personnel evaluated individuals on scene, and no serious injuries were reported.The cause of the fire is currently undetermined. The investigation is being conducted by the Junction City Fire Department with assistance from the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office.Initial damage estimates are approximately $700,000 in fire and smoke damage. The estimated total value of Building O is approximately $3.4 million.The American Red Cross and Fort Riley military personnel assisted displaced residents.

$700,000 damage from Kansas apartment fire

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post Sports

LENEXA - The Hays High swimmers completed day one of the 5-1A State Swim Meet by qualifying all three of their relays for Saturday's finals.&nbsp;

Each of the relays posted season best times.

Karsen Flaska, Jace Herbers, Cedric Dunn and Chase Zadina teamed up for the 200 yard medley relay that qualified ninth. The top 16 move on to finals. The quartet went in with a seed time of 1:49.72 and bettered that with a 1:47.06 in the preliminary round. That time also set a new school record according to a Hays High School social media post.

Zadina, Maison Desaire, Durr and Flaska also qualified for the finals in the 200 yard freestyle relay in eleventh. They finished three seconds ahead of their seed time at 1:35.88. Their seed time was 1:39.04.

Zadina, Seth Burkholder, Durr and Flaska qualified the 400 yard freestyle relay for finals with an eighth place finish. They entered the qualifying round with a seed time of 3:42.42 and bettered that with a 3:36.37.

Zadina also competed in the 50 yard freestyle and finished in 22nd.&nbsp;

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post SportsLENEXA - The Hays High swimmers completed day one of the 5-1A State Swim Meet by qualifying all three of their relays for Saturday's finals.&nbsp;Each of the relays posted season best times.Karsen Flaska, Jace Herbers, Cedric Dunn and Chase Zadina teamed up for the 200 yard medley relay that qualified ninth. The top 16 move on to finals. The quartet went in with a seed time of 1:49.72 and bettered that with a 1:47.06 in the preliminary round. That time also set a new school record according to a Hays High School social media post.Zadina, Maison Desaire, Durr and Flaska also qualified for the finals in the 200 yard freestyle relay in eleventh. They finished three seconds ahead of their seed time at 1:35.88. Their seed time was 1:39.04.Zadina, Seth Burkholder, Durr and Flaska qualified the 400 yard freestyle relay for finals with an eighth place finish. They entered the qualifying round with a seed time of 3:42.42 and bettered that with a 3:36.37.Zadina also competed in the 50 yard freestyle and finished in 22nd.&nbsp;

🏊‍♀️ Hays High relays advance to finals at state meet

Leona “Lee” Kuhn, 92, passed away
February 20, 2026, at Via Christi Village, Hays, Kan.&nbsp; She was born April 10, 1933, in Victoria,
Kan., to Joseph C. and Catherine (Paul) Weigel.&nbsp;
Lee married Clinton Herman Kuhn May 3, 1954, in Victoria.&nbsp; Clinton passed away Oct. 13, 2017.

Lee, a
resident of Great Bend since 1954 coming from Victoria, had been a faithful
sales employee for J.C. Penney for over 20 years, retiring in April, 1998.&nbsp; Prior to her employment at J.C. Penney's, she
served lunch at Great Bend High School.&nbsp;
Lee was a member of Prince of Peace at St. Rose, Altar Society, American
Legion Post 180 Auxiliary and V.F.W. Post 3111 Auxiliary.&nbsp; She was an avid reader, enjoyed word puzzles,
and was a devoted sports fan, especially the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City
Chiefs.&nbsp; Above all, she cherished time
spent with family.&nbsp; 

Survivors
include four sons, Jed Kuhn and his wife Paula of Great Bend, Brad Kuhn and his
wife Janet of Great Bend, Craig Kuhn of Kansas City, Mo., and Doug Kuhn of
Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Gabriel Hardman and his wife Lana, Jacob
Hardman and his wife Randi, Phillip Kuhn, Andrew Kuhn, Chris Kuhn and his wife
DeAnn, Brendan Kuhn and his wife Kayla and Manion Kuhn; eight
great-grandchildren; Lainey Hardman, Landon Hardman, Aiden Hardman, Casen
Hardman, Taylor Hardman, Hailee Kuhn, Cayden Kuhn, Kennedy Kuhn, and Lincoln
Kuhn; one brother, Anthony Weigel and his wife Jan of Overland Park, Kan., two
sisters, Velma Giebler of Hays and Doris Weigel of Victoria; and many nieces
and nephews. &nbsp;&nbsp;

She was
preceded in passing, by her husband Clint; four brothers, Michael Weigel,
Donald Weigel, Robert Weigel and Joseph Weigel; three sisters, Mary Jane
Miller, Louise Weigel and Shirley Weigel; two brother-in -laws, Francis Giebler
and Gilbert Miller; two sister-in-laws, Beverly Weigel and Flora Weigel; &nbsp;and her son, Doug’s, companion and best friend,
Konny Trinka.

She is also survived by Konny Trinka’s children; Brandon
Ritchie and his wife Jill, Brooke Harting, Blake Ritchie and his companion Shay
Nesby and Bailey Godwin-Ritchie and her husband Tobias; and her grandchildren;
Ayla Ritchie, Adley Ritchie, Aftyn Ritchie, Rylan Harting and Tucker Gill.

Mass of
Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at St. Rose of
Lima Catholic Church, Great Bend, with Father Amirtharajan Duraisamy presiding.
Interment will be at 3:00 p.m. at St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kan.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 24, at
Bryant Funeral Home, with an Altar Society Rosary at 4:00 p.m. and a Vigil with
Rosary at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Memorials may be
given to Prince of Peace Parish or Quilts of Valor, in care of Bryant Funeral
Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS&nbsp;
67530.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771614585607.png" alt="Leona “Lee” Kuhn, 92" />
 <figcaption>Leona “Lee” Kuhn, 92</figcaption>
 </figure>Leona “Lee” Kuhn, 92, passed away
February 20, 2026, at Via Christi Village, Hays, Kan.&nbsp; She was born April 10, 1933, in Victoria,
Kan., to Joseph C. and Catherine (Paul) Weigel.&nbsp;
Lee married Clinton Herman Kuhn May 3, 1954, in Victoria.&nbsp; Clinton passed away Oct. 13, 2017.Lee, a
resident of Great Bend since 1954 coming from Victoria, had been a faithful
sales employee for J.C. Penney for over 20 years, retiring in April, 1998.&nbsp; Prior to her employment at J.C. Penney's, she
served lunch at Great Bend High School.&nbsp;
Lee was a member of Prince of Peace at St. Rose, Altar Society, American
Legion Post 180 Auxiliary and V.F.W. Post 3111 Auxiliary.&nbsp; She was an avid reader, enjoyed word puzzles,
and was a devoted sports fan, especially the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City
Chiefs.&nbsp; Above all, she cherished time
spent with family.&nbsp; Survivors
include four sons, Jed Kuhn and his wife Paula of Great Bend, Brad Kuhn and his
wife Janet of Great Bend, Craig Kuhn of Kansas City, Mo., and Doug Kuhn of
Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Gabriel Hardman and his wife Lana, Jacob
Hardman and his wife Randi, Phillip Kuhn, Andrew Kuhn, Chris Kuhn and his wife
DeAnn, Brendan Kuhn and his wife Kayla and Manion Kuhn; eight
great-grandchildren; Lainey Hardman, Landon Hardman, Aiden Hardman, Casen
Hardman, Taylor Hardman, Hailee Kuhn, Cayden Kuhn, Kennedy Kuhn, and Lincoln
Kuhn; one brother, Anthony Weigel and his wife Jan of Overland Park, Kan., two
sisters, Velma Giebler of Hays and Doris Weigel of Victoria; and many nieces
and nephews. &nbsp;&nbsp;She was
preceded in passing, by her husband Clint; four brothers, Michael Weigel,
Donald Weigel, Robert Weigel and Joseph Weigel; three sisters, Mary Jane
Miller, Louise Weigel and Shirley Weigel; two brother-in -laws, Francis Giebler
and Gilbert Miller; two sister-in-laws, Beverly Weigel and Flora Weigel; &nbsp;and her son, Doug’s, companion and best friend,
Konny Trinka.She is also survived by Konny Trinka’s children; Brandon
Ritchie and his wife Jill, Brooke Harting, Blake Ritchie and his companion Shay
Nesby and Bailey Godwin-Ritchie and her husband Tobias; and her grandchildren;
Ayla Ritchie, Adley Ritchie, Aftyn Ritchie, Rylan Harting and Tucker Gill.Mass of
Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at St. Rose of
Lima Catholic Church, Great Bend, with Father Amirtharajan Duraisamy presiding.
Interment will be at 3:00 p.m. at St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kan.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 24, at
Bryant Funeral Home, with an Altar Society Rosary at 4:00 p.m. and a Vigil with
Rosary at 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Memorials may be
given to Prince of Peace Parish or Quilts of Valor, in care of Bryant Funeral
Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS&nbsp;
67530.

Leona 'Lee' Kuhn, 92

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation has announced it will match donations up to $50,000 for the improvements planned for Sunrise Park in Hays.

"We are excited to help with this project and look forward to the many smiles it will create with kids and families in the future. The Women Who Lead set a great example of what can be accomplished by a group of enthusiastic thinkers!" Gary Shorman, foundation trustee, said.

Women Who Lead is raising funds for the second through fourth phases of improvements to the park.&nbsp;

Phase two will include new playground equipment for the park to replace aging equipment that needs to be removed.

Read more about the park project <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/85e37152-f58f-4b1d-9ccc-7976ef14c477">here</a>.

"We thank the Schmidt Foundation for its generous commitment to the Sunrise Park project, and ask the community to join us in contributing to the improvements to this wonderful space that will surely be used by Hays residents of all ages for many years to come," Nancy Jeter, Women Who Lead, president, said.

Phase one of the improvements is partially complete, with work ongoing.

If you wish to donate to the park project, you can do so through Women Who Lead on its website at&nbsp;<a href="https://womenwholead.org/">https://womenwholead.org/</a>. There is a dedicated donation button on the nonprofit's homepage for this project.

You can also send checks to Women Who Lead at PO Box 453, Hays, KS 67601, with Sunrise Park in the memo line.

Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a member of Women Who Lead.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771017334220.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of the new playground equipment for Sunrise Park. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of the new playground equipment for Sunrise Park. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Robert and Patricia Schmidt Foundation has announced it will match donations up to $50,000 for the improvements planned for Sunrise Park in Hays."We are excited to help with this project and look forward to the many smiles it will create with kids and families in the future. The Women Who Lead set a great example of what can be accomplished by a group of enthusiastic thinkers!" Gary Shorman, foundation trustee, said.Women Who Lead is raising funds for the second through fourth phases of improvements to the park.&nbsp;Phase two will include new playground equipment for the park to replace aging equipment that needs to be removed.Read more about the park project <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/85e37152-f58f-4b1d-9ccc-7976ef14c477">here</a>."We thank the Schmidt Foundation for its generous commitment to the Sunrise Park project, and ask the community to join us in contributing to the improvements to this wonderful space that will surely be used by Hays residents of all ages for many years to come," Nancy Jeter, Women Who Lead, president, said.Phase one of the improvements is partially complete, with work ongoing.If you wish to donate to the park project, you can do so through Women Who Lead on its website at&nbsp;<a href="https://womenwholead.org/">https://womenwholead.org/</a>. There is a dedicated donation button on the nonprofit's homepage for this project.You can also send checks to Women Who Lead at PO Box 453, Hays, KS 67601, with Sunrise Park in the memo line.Editor's note: Cristina Janney is a member of Women Who Lead.

Schmidt Foundation offers matching funds for Sunrise Park project

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Thursday that he’s directing the Pentagon and other government agencies to identify and release files related to extraterrestrials and UFOs because of “tremendous interest.”

Trump made the announcement in a social media post hours after he accused former President Barack Obama of disclosing “classified information” when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/obama-aliens-podcast-area-51-a23f03ebb1b4c3009415b20bec3df26b">Obama recently suggested in a podcast interview</a>&nbsp;that aliens were real.

Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “I don’t know if they’re real or not,” and said of Obama, “I may get him out of trouble by declassifying.”

In a post on his social media platform Thursday night, Trump said he was directing government agencies to release files related “to alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs), and any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely interesting and important, matters.”

Obama, who made his comments in a podcast appearance over the weekend, later clarified that he had not seen evidence that aliens “have made contact with us,” but said, “statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771554285454.png" alt="President Trump during a rally in Georgia- White House image" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during a rally in Georgia- White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Thursday that he’s directing the Pentagon and other government agencies to identify and release files related to extraterrestrials and UFOs because of “tremendous interest.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨👽 <a href="https://t.co/YvlvECEuIK">pic.twitter.com/YvlvECEuIK</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2024653706273112379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/pdoocy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pdoocy</a>: &quot;Obama said that aliens are real. Have you seen any evidence of non-human visitors to Earth?&quot; President Trump: &quot;He gave classified information. He&#39;s not supposed to be doing that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/4zUHOdT5dS">pic.twitter.com/4zUHOdT5dS</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2024578635097571670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump made the announcement in a social media post hours after he accused former President Barack Obama of disclosing “classified information” when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/obama-aliens-podcast-area-51-a23f03ebb1b4c3009415b20bec3df26b">Obama recently suggested in a podcast interview</a>&nbsp;that aliens were real.Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “I don’t know if they’re real or not,” and said of Obama, “I may get him out of trouble by declassifying.”In a post on his social media platform Thursday night, Trump said he was directing government agencies to release files related “to alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs), and any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely interesting and important, matters.”Obama, who made his comments in a podcast appearance over the weekend, later clarified that he had not seen evidence that aliens “have made contact with us,” but said, “statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there.”

Trump orders Pentagon to release files related to UFOs and aliens

By Dewey Terrill JC Post / Little Apple Post

Firefighters responded to a blaze at 1810 Caroline Ave. Building "O" in Junction City Thursday afternoon. There were no any injuries. Residents of 17 apartments were displaced.

The cause of the blaze is still undetermined. Fire Chief Jason Lankas reported that about one-quarter of the building was destroyed. A damage estimate has not yet been determined. Investigators from the State Fire Marshall's Office and Junction City Fire Department were brought in to work on the case.

Junction City and Geary County firefighters responded along with a ladder truck from Fort Riley. The military and Red Cross responded to the scene to help those who were displaced. Most of those people were members of the military and everyone has been taken care of.&nbsp; The fire call came in at 2:04 p.m.

This is the fourth building fire at the Bluffs since the complex opened many years ago.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771550654784.jpeg" alt="Photo - Junction City Fire Department&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo - Junction City Fire Department&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey Terrill JC Post / Little Apple PostFirefighters responded to a blaze at 1810 Caroline Ave. Building "O" in Junction City Thursday afternoon. There were no any injuries. Residents of 17 apartments were displaced.The cause of the blaze is still undetermined. Fire Chief Jason Lankas reported that about one-quarter of the building was destroyed. A damage estimate has not yet been determined. Investigators from the State Fire Marshall's Office and Junction City Fire Department were brought in to work on the case.Junction City and Geary County firefighters responded along with a ladder truck from Fort Riley. The military and Red Cross responded to the scene to help those who were displaced. Most of those people were members of the military and everyone has been taken care of.&nbsp; The fire call came in at 2:04 p.m.This is the fourth building fire at the Bluffs since the complex opened many years ago.

Residents of 17 apartments displaced after Kansas fire

By GARRETT WELLBROCK Hays Post Sports

OAKLEY — There were no lead changes in either game Thursday night as the Oakley Plainsmen and TMP-Marian Monarchs split an MCL doubleheader.

TMP fell behind early and never recovered, as its five-game winning streak came to an end. Oakley raced out to a 10-2 lead in the opening minutes and later used a 7-0 run to build a 17-5 advantage — its largest of the night.

The Lady Monarchs answered with an 8-0 run to cut the deficit to four. Trailing 21-15 late in the second quarter, Brynn Rebel — who led TMP with 15 points — knocked down a corner three while drawing a foul and completed the four-point play to pull TMP within two at halftime.

The third quarter was a defensive grind, with just 11 total points scored. TMP twice trimmed the deficit to two but could not find the tying basket. Oakley opened the fourth on a 6-0 run to push the lead to nine, and TMP managed just 13 second-half points in the 45-36 loss.

By GARRETT WELLBROCK Hays Post SportsOAKLEY — There were no lead changes in either game Thursday night as the Oakley Plainsmen and TMP-Marian Monarchs split an MCL doubleheader.Girls: Oakley 45, TMP-Marian 36TMP fell behind early and never recovered, as its five-game winning streak came to an end. Oakley raced out to a 10-2 lead in the opening minutes and later used a 7-0 run to build a 17-5 advantage — its largest of the night.The Lady Monarchs answered with an 8-0 run to cut the deficit to four. Trailing 21-15 late in the second quarter, Brynn Rebel — who led TMP with 15 points — knocked down a corner three while drawing a foul and completed the four-point play to pull TMP within two at halftime.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270006117&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-vs-oakley-highlights" title="TMP WBKB vs Oakley Highlights 02-19-2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB vs Oakley Highlights 02-19-2026</a></div></div>The third quarter was a defensive grind, with just 11 total points scored. TMP twice trimmed the deficit to two but could not find the tying basket. Oakley opened the fourth on a 6-0 run to push the lead to nine, and TMP managed just 13 second-half points in the 45-36 loss.Boys: #8 TMP-Marian 67, Oakley 54The eighth-ranked Monarchs controlled the night from the outset. After a 2-2 tie, TMP buried three straight three-pointers to jump ahead 11-2. Ty Schmeidler, who led all scorers with 17 points, hit three triples in the opening quarter, and Carson Liles added another late three to give TMP a 25-11 lead after one.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270006075&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-mbkb-vs-oakley-coach-bill" title="TMP MBKB vs Oakley Coach Bill Meagher Post Game Interview 02-19-2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB vs Oakley Coach Bill Meagher Post Game Interview 02-19-2026</a></div></div>The Monarchs closed the first quarter and opened the second on a 9-0 run to stretch the margin to 20. TMP outscored Oakley 16-8 in the second and led comfortably at the break.Midway through the third, the Monarchs pushed their lead to 27 and capped the quarter with a two-handed dunk from Grant Nehls to take a 56-33 advantage into the fourth.Oakley showed fight in the final period, outscoring TMP 21-11 behind Manuel Mancia’s 12 fourth-quarter points (26 total), but the Monarchs secured the 67-54 win despite being outscored 35-26 in the second half.Nehls finished with 15 points and eight rebounds.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2270006135&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-mbkb-vs-oakley-highlights" title="TMP MBKB vs Oakley Highlights 02-19-2026" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB vs Oakley Highlights 02-19-2026</a></div></div>TMP is back in action Friday at Norton. The girls look to bounce back, while the boys aim to clinch the MCL regular season title.