JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Geary County Schools USD 475 said that the Junction City High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America team, which consists of Mateo Fuentes, Kai Walsh, Brittney Dibben, Aubrey Goddard and Keileigh Johnston, was recently named the 2026 Kansas State Varsity LifeSmarts&nbsp;Champion at the Kansas State Finals on the campus of Wichita State University.

By earning state championship accolades, the Blue Jays, who had already secured a wild card spot for nationals in January prior to competing late last week, will be one of only two teams from the entire state of Kansas who will compete at the 2026 National LifeSmarts Championship in Orlando, Fla.&nbsp;In all, Fuentes, Walsh, Dibben, Goddard and Johnston are not only the firstteam&nbsp;in school history to win a LifeSmarts State Championship or competition, but also the first team in school history to qualify for nationals as a non-wild card team. 

In 2024, JCHS saw former graduates Armani Coleman, Macie Muto, Rilynn Hotard and Gracie Erichsen advance to nationals as a wild card.The Blue Jays, who had to qualify for state to even compete last week, placed first overall by beating out five other state qualifying teams in a head-to-head in person team competition, including runner-up Sunrise Christian Academy of Wichita who will now join JCHS at nationals after the Blue Jays were able to pass along their wild card spot to the Buffaloes.&nbsp;

The group will travel to Orlando the week of April 15-18 to compete against 48 other teams, nationally, for the right to be crowned the 2026 LifeSmarts National Champion.

LifeSmarts, a consumer education and life skills competition, challenges teens about personal finance, health &amp; safety, the environment, technology &amp; workforce preparation, as well as consumer rights and responsibilities, is a program of the National Consumers League.

JCHS FCCLA Wins LifeSmarts State Championship

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Zachary Harding, Failure to appear; Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 02/18

Elizabeth Long, Outside warrant (Two counts), arrested 02/18

Anyvette Caldero Rios, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 02/18

KeShawn Porter, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 02/18

Rashawn Washington, Failure to appear, arrested 02/18

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 19, 2026

Junction City, Geary County and USD 475 officials will meet at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

Agenda items provided by the County include a comprehensive plan update, public works updates and marketing campaign. From the City they are spring cleanup 2026, homeless task force and incinerator. The Item submitted for the agenda by USD 475 involves portrait of a graduate.

Agenda is set for joint City, County, USD 475 meeting

USD 475 Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginals Eggleston, has announced that the ribbon cutting for the new Early Childhood Center will be at 11 a.m. on May 8.

Following the ribbon cutting attendees will be able to take a tour of the new facility.

Ribbon cutting set for new Early Childhood Center

USD 383 has announced that Shadwin Spilski has been named Manhattan High School Athletic Director and Assistant Principal.

Spilski currently serves as the district Athletic Director and Director of Innovation for Lapeer Community Schools in Lapeer, Michigan. He has served in that position since 2014. Prior to that, he was the Athletic/Activities Director for four years at Buffalo High School in Buffalo, Wyoming. He started his teaching career as a social studies teacher at Whiting High School in Laramie, Wyoming in 2004. He has a Bachelor of Arts &amp; Sciences in Secondary Education from the University of Wyoming and a Masters in Education Administration from Chadron State University (NE).

“I am incredibly humbled and honored to be leading the traditions and excellency of Manhattan High School as the next Athletic Director and Assistant Principal,” states Spilski. “I am looking forward to working with our coaches, staff, boosters, community, and most importantly our student-athletes. Manhattan High School is a special place and I cannot wait to get started!”

“We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Spilski to the Manhattan High School family,” states Michael Dorst, Manhattan High School Principal. “In speaking with coaches and administrators from his current school and district, it is clear that he has made a tremendous impact and he will be greatly missed and not easily replaced. We are fortunate to have him joining our team, and I look forward to working with Mr. Spilski as we continue the proud tradition of excellence that defines our great school.”

The USD 383 Board of Education acted on the appointment during the February 18 meeting. He will begin his role in July, 2026. He replaces Mike Marsh. Mr. Marsh is retiring in June, 2026.

Spilski Named Manhattan High School Athletic Director and Assistant Principal

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce announced that Honor Screen Printing and Embroidery, 719- W. 8th Street,&nbsp; will host Business During Hours on Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Chamber Business During Hours will be held Thursday

KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

Topeka, KS&nbsp;— 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/1/0100019c733bce4b-e7e7f18d-7d99-4039-a962-e0762925b7bd-000000/8YXVV8AYrQaVz97bcc3PdBSU9L8y5gKh0XzjJ_2wbDM=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-98/1/0100019c733bce4b-e7e7f18d-7d99-4039-a962-e0762925b7bd-000000/8-aaGhhlVkBzBc1Z_lVCVaFX7Zm_qR5oTfWei9Ublqg=445">AirNow Fire and Smoke Map</a>.

KDHE monitoring air quality due to wildfires

The Junction City Commission has approved a resolution to have the city manager, Kim Zimmerman, administer a Build Grant if it's received from the&nbsp; US Department of Transportation. The City is about a week away from submitting an application. The city manager would operate within the policies of the city.

The grant would support Grant Avenue improvements.

&nbsp;According to the City the authorization reflects the Commission’s commitment to advancing public safety, improving sustainable infrastructure, and supporting continued economic and community development, particularly in partnership with Fort Riley, private industry, and local residents. 

The Commission’s support includes pursuing BUILD grant funding (up to the program’s $25 million cap) to repair Grant Avenue and address related stormwater drainage and roadway concerns. In accordance with Kansas Budget and Cash-Basis Law, the City has further pledged to cover any and all potential cost overruns that may exceed the current cost estimate amount of $24.8 million.&nbsp;

City Commission approves a resolution for a grant application

Join the United Way JCGC to help STUFF THE PANTRY.They&nbsp; will be collecting food and baby items. Donations will be shared with the Geary County Food Pantry, JC Pregnancy Center, Konza Cupboard, Clover Cabinet, and other food pantries.

. Each month, the food pantries in the community provide food for over 2,000 people. United Way wants to make sure that there is enough food to meet the needs.

In addition to food items, they are collecting items for the JC Pregnancy Center. Often, when a new or expecting parent comes into the pregnancy center, it is to get help with items for their little one. This could be diapers, wipes, pacifiers, or baby towels. Volunteers who would like to help can sign up at through theSignUp Genius link. Volunteers will help collect items and/or deliver them to the intended recipients. In addition to live days, there will be drop off boxes throughout the community.

Volunteers will be at Dillons and both Wal-Mart locations

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Wish List Items

Peanut Butter, Jelly Boxed Dinners (Hamburger Helper)

Canned Meat any type Diapers (Any Size/Brand), Baby Wipes

Canned Vegetables, Shampoo/Conditioner, Canned Pasta – (Spaghetti O’s)

Spaghetti Sauce, Canned Mac &amp; Cheese, Trail Mix/Snack Crackers

Pancake Mix &amp; Syrup, Baby Towels Baby Washcloths

Baby Blankets, Cleaning Supplies, Condiments

United Way will collect food and baby items

Kaiona Patterson, Escape from custody; Resisting arrest; Domestic battery; Criminal deprivation of property; Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, arrested 02/13

Veronica Hicks, Violation of a protection order, arrested 02/13

Myrthles Crawford, Probation violation, arrested 02/13

Hope Hasty, Unlawful damage to property; Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 02/14

Justin Welch, Failure to appear, arrested 02/14

Matthew Klukis, Failure to appear, arrested 02/14

Leonel Gonzalez-Leiva, DUI-Liquor/Drugs (2nd offense); Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 02/15

Joseph Smith, DUI-Liquor or drugs, arrested 02/15

Dshawn Grant, Domestic battery, arrested 02/15

Jean Mballa Onana, Failure to appear, arrested 02/16

Dylan Williams, Failure to appear, arrested 02/16

Imani Rodriguez, Failure to appear, arrested 02/17

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 14-18, 2026

The Junction City Elks Lodge #1037 has donated cleaning supplies and made a financial donation to the Junction City Animal Shelter.&nbsp;

 Members of Junction City Elks Lodge dropped off over $500 in cleaning supplies and kennels for the Junction City Animal Shelter this week. They also made a $550 donation to Max’s Fund at the animal shelter.

According to Vanessa Gray, Director of the Junction City Animal Shelter, "Max's Fund&nbsp;is a donation-based fund that anyone can apply for through the animal shelter. It is there to assist pet owners with vet bills or supplies as needed." They can apply twice a year, and approval is based on availability of funds in the account.

Junction City Elks Lodge #1037 Supports the Junction City Animal Shelter

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.– Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop. 

Jusst before 9:30 p.m. February 17,, a Sheriff's Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

During the traffic stop, deputies discovered illegal contraband.  The driver, Jason Green, 49, of Warsaw, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, driving while license suspended, improper driving on laned roadway, and failure to provide vehicle insurance. 

The passenger Shannen Leeviy Price, 45, of Warsaw, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container and criminal use of weapons.

2 Missouri men caught transporting drugs in Kansas

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/meg-kinnard">MEG KINNARD</a> Associated Press

The Federal Communications Commission is investigating ABC’s “The View” over possible violations of the requirement that broadcast stations give&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stephen-colbert-james-talarico-equal-time-6cd29992ae2170ab6d10c3ddca92ec98">equal time</a>&nbsp;to political candidates when they appear on-air, according to the head of the agency that oversees U.S. broadcast airwaves.

“The FCC has an enforcement action underway on that,” Chairman Brendan Carr told reporters after an agency meeting Wednesday, in response to a question about whether there were an investigation into the daytime series over potential violations of the “equal time” rule. “And we’re taking a look at it.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/james-talarico-cornyn-paxton-us-senate-texas-1826fe4d6aa162f0bdb8059c58987aa9">James Talarico</a>, a Democratic candidate for the Senate in Texas, appeared on “The View” on Feb. 2. U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-senate-race-colin-allred-jasmine-crockett-5849d3ca44a733ce016300070788eec3">Jasmine Crockett</a>, who is running against Talarico for the nomination, has also been on the show.

The Trump administration has taken steps to clamp down on talk shows, which the FCC has suggested may be “motivated by partisan purposes.” Earlier in the week, late-night host Stephen Colbert said CBS executives had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stephen-colbert-james-talarico-donald-trump-fcc-806845facffd3ab3e30142971be16add">pulled an appearance</a>&nbsp;by Talarico on his program over fears it ran afoul of equal time provisions.

The FCC issued&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-26-68A1.pdf" target="_blank">new guidance</a>&nbsp;in January to late-night and daytime hosts that they needed to give political candidates equal time. There are exceptions to the rule, including for newscasts, “bona fide” interview programs, and coverage of live events or documentaries. Carr has raised questions about the talk show exemption and whether it should stand.

“The FCC has not been presented with any evidence that the interview portion of any late night or daytime television talk show program on air presently would qualify for the bona fide news exemption,” according to the agency’s public notice last month.

Carr, a Trump appointee, suggested last year that investigating “The View,” whose hosts have frequently been critical of the Republican president, might be “worthwhile.”

The FCC has not responded to a message seeking comment on “The View” or Colbert’s show.

On Wednesday, Carr said watching the fallout from Colbert’s characterization of what happened with Talarico “was probably one of the most fun days I’ve had in the job,” adding that the candidate “took advantage” of media attention ”apparently for the purpose of raising money and getting clicks.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stephen-colbert-james-talarico-equal-time-6cd29992ae2170ab6d10c3ddca92ec98">equal time provision applies</a>&nbsp;only to broadcast, not streaming or internet programs. Colbert later posted the Talarico interview to YouTube, where it’s been viewed more than 7.5 million times — several times what the comic’s CBS program draws each night.

Talarico reported that he had raised $2.5 million in campaign donations in the 24 hours after the Colbert interview.

A spokesperson for “The View” on Thursday declined to comment on Carr’s statement.

CBS says Colbert was provided “legal guidance” that broadcasting the interview with Talarico could trigger the equal time rule. Colbert&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colbert-talarico-cbs-trump-fcc-014a0531715f098fbcd7902476a22590">said on his show Tuesday night</a>&nbsp;that while Carr said in January he was thinking about getting rid of the exemption for late-night talk shows, “CBS generously did it for him.”

FCC chair: Agency investigating ABC's 'The View' over equal time rule

BEAVER COUNTY —On Tuesday, troopers in Troop I of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol responded to an overturned Rosston fire truck during the Ranger Road wildfire between Rosston and Englewood, Kansas, according to a statement from the patrol.. 

Three firefighters were on board. Two were riding on the back of the truck as they navigated a smoke-filled pasture with extremely limited visibility.

The driver, unable to see through the dense smoke, drove into a burning canyon. The truck overturned, trapping the driver and ejecting the two firefighters who were riding on the rear.

After noticing a missing fire truck, fellow first responders searched for the fireman as every second counted. Once located, all three men were rescued from the burning canyon and transported by ambulance to a hospital. Each sustained serious injuries. The trapped driver suffered second-degree burns to his upper body.

"We are grateful for the fellow first responders who, like these brave Rosston firefighters, came from across the state to assist Oklahomans as this massive wildfire spread. They pushed flames back from homes, evacuated residents, and moved livestock for people they may never meet." the OHP wrote.

"Please keep these three firefighters in your thoughts as they recover, along with the men and women who continue responding to the ongoing wildfire threat."

Injured firefighters rescued after crash in burning canyon

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks fell Thursday, while oil prices rose with worries about a potential conflict&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-russia-drill-nuclear-talks-aircraft-carrier-0456903e0d7a24cfcdc33d53732dee2f">between the United States and Iran</a>.

The S&amp;P 500 slipped 0.3% for its first loss in four days. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 267 points, or 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite slipped 0.3%.

Booking Holdings dropped 6.1% for one of the market’s sharper losses, even though the company behind the Booking.com, Priceline and OpenTable brands reported a profit for the latest quarter that edged past analysts’ expectations.

Its stock has been under pressure because of worries that competitors powered by artificial-intelligence technology could upend its industry and take away customers. Booking’s stock has lost roughly a quarter of its value so far this year already.

Such&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-fed-jobs-profit-45f8d8df807d4b7ed9127afc4b5809c9">worries have been rolling through Wall Street</a>, hitting industries as far flung as software and legal services and trucking logistics. Investors have been punishing stocks of companies seen as under threat by AI so suddenly and aggressively that analysts have likened it to a “shoot first-ask questions later” mentality.

The doubts are hurting not just companies seen as potential victims of AI but also the private-credit companies that have lent them money. Blue Owl Capital fell 5.9% to bring its loss for the year so far to 22.5%, for example. Apollo Global Management dropped 5.2%, and Ares Management sank 3.1%.

Carvana sank 7.9% even though the retailer reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. Investors may have been paying more attention to how much profit the auto retailer made per vehicle sold, which was lower than expected.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walmart-fourth-quarter-earnings-economy-c0381d22cb2182a0f5a1242cbb12a9ca">Walmart</a>, meanwhile, pushed and pulled on the market after jumping to an early gain of 2.7% and then flipping to a loss. The retail giant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walmart-fourth-quarter-earnings-economy-c0381d22cb2182a0f5a1242cbb12a9ca">delivered stronger results</a>&nbsp;for the latest quarter than analysts expected, but it gave a profit forecast for the upcoming year that fell short of estimates. It finished the day with a loss of 1.4%.

Helping to limit the market’s losses was Deere, which jumped 11.6% after the machinery maker reported a higher profit than analysts expected. CEO John May said it’s seeing a continued recovery in demand from construction and smaller agricultural customers, though its global, large agricultural customers are still feeling pressure.

Some of the bigger gains in the S&amp;P 500 came from stocks of oil companies, which climbed with the price of crude. A barrel of benchmark U.S. crude rose 1.9% to $66.43, while Brent added 1.9% to $71.66 per barrel.

Oil prices rose with worries about a possible military confrontation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-russia-drill-nuclear-talks-aircraft-carrier-0456903e0d7a24cfcdc33d53732dee2f">between the United States and Iran</a>. President Donald Trump has been raising the pressure on Iran, which is home to some of the world’s largest oil reserves, because of its disputed nuclear program. If a conflict were to break out, it could constrict the global flow of oil.

Occidental Petroleum jumped 9.4% after it also reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.

All told, the S&amp;P 500 fell 19.42 points to 6,861.89. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 267.50 to 49,395.16, and the Nasdaq composite lost 70.91 to 22,682.73.

In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady after a report said the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/unemployment-benefits-jobless-claims-layoffs-labor-77f64caa00f49af45d52e7e909cd4f79">number of U.S. workers applying for unemployment benefits eased</a>&nbsp;last week. That could be a signal that the pace of layoffs is slowing.

A solid job market, in turn, could keep the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-powell-inflation-c13913c9e007981f075fb3b22d4a4cec">Federal Reserve on hold</a>&nbsp;for longer before it resumes its cuts to interest rates. Fed officials said at their last meeting that they want to see&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-jobs-fed-trump-d7aabc066d5a3a330022963289abc0c0">inflation fall further</a>&nbsp;before they would support cutting rates further this year.

If oil prices keep rising, that would push upward on inflation.

The yield on the 10-year Treasury slipped to 4.07% from 4.09% late Wednesday.

Other U.S. economic reports said that growth for manufacturing in the mid-Atlantic region is accelerating, but potential homebuyers across the country didn’t sign as many contracts in January to purchase. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-trade-deficit-tariffs-china-9eb6bd10ff635d63e46ee99d34ce1d05">U.S. trade deficit</a>&nbsp;also widened in December by more than economists expected.

In stock markets abroad, indexes fell in Europe following better performances in Asia.

South Korea’s Kospi jumped 3.1% as trading resumed following a Lunar New Year holiday. Markets in Hong Kong and Shanghai remained closed.

Oil prices climb on mounting US-Iran tensions

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

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;On Wednesday,&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger&nbsp;Marshall, M.D. praised President Trump’s nominations of Kansas Bureau of Investigations Director Tony Mattivi, Great Bend Attorney Jeffrey M. Kuhlman, and Kansas Solicitor General Anthony J. Powell as judges on the United States District Court for the District of Kansas.

“President Trump has selected three exceptional Kansans who bring to the bench deep legal experience, strong judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law,”&nbsp;said Senator&nbsp;Marshall.&nbsp;“Tony Mattivi’s career as a federal prosecutor and as a leader in the fight against terrorism, violent crime, and drug trafficking speaks volumes about the depth of his expertise; Jeff Kuhlman’s experience clerking for Federal judges and representing Kansas communities demonstrate his strong commitment to our State; and Anthony Powell’s decades of service as a legislator, judge and now Kansas Solicitor General exemplify his steadfast commitment to justice and public service. While there were many options from which to choose, these three Kansans will bring a rare depth of professional experience to the District Court, ensuring that justice is served and our constitutional principles are steadfastly upheld.

“These nominees understand the Constitution, respect the law as written, and have dedicated their careers to serving and protecting Kansans. I’m grateful to President Trump for selecting such highly qualified individuals, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to confirm them swiftly.”

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

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&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-iowa-basketball-score-2244f41882aa408058620e8506a644a1">bounced back from a blowout loss at Iowa State</a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tcu-oklahoma-state-score-big-12-d411d5067b05bd3fcf13948a24b82065">were coming off a tough overtime home loss to TCU</a>&nbsp;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.

🏀 Freshman star Darryn Peterson leads KU past Oklahoma State 

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZaCxIibUqO9Ro5nAf8MNWsWQAOCXpAbPsZPowB6YH7Hg6YnU6slk-hTZUxqH73m_pap9ayEFgxX9pP4bKvSp28txqd3flLwUq-mRpoeErZeTXLAiKjvLb_t3LAqWGojpJsTwBrNIK1MrJnqBEN2hUlVxMOGpiPothy4l_plL32T5ywsBTJQd1n7Q6tCe_JIZH0&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> boys’ bowling team captured the 2026 Centennial League Championship on Wednesday. On the girl’s side, the Blue Jays earned runner-up honors at Manhattan Little Apple Lanes.

Individually, Felix Roberts led the girls with a third-place showing, while Ava Wilson and Angie Shannon rounded out JCHS’ top performers, finishing fourth and sixth overall, respectively. Sean McKone paced the Blue Jays on the boys’ side, finishing fourth overall. Andrew Holmes and Jaxon Buchanan wrapped-up Wednesday’s action by finishing in ninth and 12th place, respectively.&nbsp; &nbsp;

JCHS bowling teams excel

The Junction City High School boys’ and girls’ basketball teams were back in the capital city of Topeka on Tuesday night for their fifth straight road game—three of those in Topeka. Tuesday’s matchup was played at Topeka High School.

Girls Recap - Topeka High 66, Junction City 33

The girls’ game belonged to Topeka High from the start. The Lady Trojans, now winners of six straight, rolled past Junction City on Tuesday night.

Topeka led 9-4 just two minutes into the game, with all four of Junction City’s points coming from sophomore Laniyah Warmack. From there, the Trojans took control. Turning defense into offense, Topeka finished the first quarter on a 23-1 run and led 32-5 at the end of the period.

The Lady Jays played much better in the second quarter, scoring 13 points, including five straight from senior Breya Allen. Junction City trailed 56-18 at halftime.

The entire second half was played with a running clock, and Topeka High secured its sixth consecutive win by doubling up the Lady Jays, 66-33.

*Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was senior Breya Allen. She scored a season-high eight points and provided solid minutes in her first start of the season. For being named the Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Breya receives a $20 coupon voucher from Blu Restaurant, located at 602 N. Washington St. in Junction City.

Boys Recap - Junction City 61, Topeka High 59

This game lived up to the excitement of the first matchup between these two teams exactly one month earlier, when Topeka won 72-69 in overtime.

Both teams entered the contest in need of a Centennial League win. The first quarter was a back-and-forth battle, with each team trading baskets. Topeka High led 16-15 after one.

The second quarter featured an early Trojans run. Topeka opened the period on an 11-6 run to take a 27-21 lead. The Blue Jays responded and cut the deficit to four, trailing 29-25 at halftime.

The third quarter mirrored the first, as neither team could pull away. Topeka led 46-41 heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter brought plenty of drama. Junction City began the period on a 10-4 run to take a 51-50 lead. Topeka answered with a run of its own, going up 57-51 with 1:35 remaining.&nbsp;

Then the Blue Jays dug in defensively and found their offense. Senior Jackson Hollie made a layup and then hit a jumper from the left elbow to cut the deficit to 57-55 with under a minute to play. Junction City got another stop when junior Angel Allen dove in front of a cross-court pass, stole the ball and called a timeout.

Senior Lovell Autry tied the game at 57 with 27 seconds remaining. On the next possession, Topeka attempted to score in transition but threw the ball out of bounds. With no timeouts left, Junction City executed and took the lead. Autry drove to the basket and gave the Blue Jays a 59-57 lead with 9.5 seconds to play.

Topeka advanced the ball and called timeout with 6.7 seconds left. Senior Bryson McComas drove to the basket and missed, but goaltending was called when Autry hit the backboard while the ball was near the cylinder. The game was tied at 59 with 1.8 seconds left, and overtime seemed likely again.

Junior Khaliel Walker, standing on the baseline at the opposite end of the floor, threw a one-handed, full-court pass that hit Autry in stride. Autry finished with a left-handed layup at the buzzer to give Junction City a 61-59 win.

It was a remarkable comeback, as the Blue Jays closed the game on a 10-2 run, with an outstanding final play to win the game.

With the win, Junction City improves to 10-9 on the season, while Topeka High falls to 10-10. Three Blue Jays scored in double figures: Lovell Autry led the way with 24 points, Jackson Hollie added 14, and Khaliel Walker had 11.

*Our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game was senior Lovell Autry.&nbsp;For being named our Blu Restaurant Player of the Game, Lovell receives a $20 coupon voucher from Blu Restaurant, located at 602 N. Washington St. in Junction City.

Both the Junction City Blue Jays and Lady Jays return to action Friday night at Manhattan High School.

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