Hutchinson City Council to Consider Sales Tax Election, Major Development Projects, Rate Changes, and Strategic Plan

The Hutchinson City Council is scheduled to consider a wide-ranging agenda that includes a proposed citywide sales tax election, economic development incentives, utility rate adjustments, long-term planning initiatives, and major capital projects when it meets in the coming weeks.

One of the most significant items before the council is a proposed ordinance that would place a three-fourths percent (.75%) general retailers sales tax before voters. If approved by the council, the question would appear on the March 3, 2026 ballot. The proposed tax would be in effect from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2036, pending voter approval.

City officials say existing revenues are not sufficient to meet current needs, which include unfunded federal stormwater mandates from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, street maintenance and repairs, park improvements, capital improvement projects, and ongoing city operations. Approval by voters would authorize the city to levy the additional tax to help address those funding gaps.

The council will also consider authorizing the issuance of approximately $2.9 million in taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRBs) for the Gunbros project, led by Selwyn Investments, LLC. The bonds would support acquisition, construction, and equipping of a commercial business. Under the proposal, the city would hold title to the property during the bond term and transfer ownership back to the developer once the bonds are paid in full. City officials emphasized that no city funds or taxes would be used to repay the bonds, and all associated costs would be borne by the developer. The proposal includes a request for a 10-year property tax abatement and aligns with the city’s strategic goal of strengthening tourism as an economic driver.

Another item involves a 2 percent rate increase for refuse services under the city’s existing contract with Stutzman Refuse Services. The proposed increase, effective January 1, 2026, would adjust residential monthly trash service from $11.00 to $11.22, with similar increases for commercial and walk-in services. City staff say council approval is required under the contract terms, and the changes support the city’s livability goals.

Council members are also expected to approve a resolution calling a public hearing on January 20, 2026, to consider adoption of the Hutchinson STAR Bond Project Plan. The Kansas Department of Commerce approved the plan earlier this month, designating the area as an eligible museum and rural redevelopment project and authorizing up to $13.2 million in STAR bond financing. Adoption of the plan would allow the city to move forward with bond issuance, though the hearing itself does not obligate city funds.

Building and development issues are also on the agenda. The council will review an updated Building Permit Fee Schedule, the first comprehensive update since 2018. City staff say the proposed changes are designed to make Hutchinson more competitive with similar Kansas communities, lower residential permit costs to encourage new housing, and better align fees with actual service costs. The changes would take effect January 1, 2026, and are not expected to significantly impact overall city revenues.

In addition, the council will consider adopting the City of Hutchinson Strategic Plan for 2026–2028, developed with assistance from Wichita State University’s Public Policy and Management Center. The plan outlines five strategic objectives addressing operational efficiency, long-term funding models, economic development alignment, neighborhood investment, and housing supply. While the plan does not authorize new spending, it is intended to guide future budgets and departmental priorities.

Finally, council members will consider approving an $84,000 agreement with WDM Architects for design and construction administration services for Phase 1 of the Hutchinson Zoo Master Plan. Phase 1 includes upgrades to the zoo’s train system, new animal habitats—including a mixed-species tortoise and kangaroo habitat—and conservation-focused exhibits along the train loop. The project will be funded through the city’s 2026 Capital Improvement Projects budget.

Hutchinson City Council to consider sales tax election

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Three-day Outlook

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Sterling High School Theatre has entered an exciting new chapter with the official chartering of Thespian Troupe #12627, bringing the school into the International Thespian Society and opening new opportunities for students in the performing arts.

The new troupe is led by Greg McGlynn, a Sterling High School alumnus who returned home after more than 30 years of teaching theatre across Kansas and Texas. McGlynn said his decision to come back was rooted in both family and a desire to give back.

“I am excited to come back home and share my 30-plus years of theatre experiences with my alma mater,” McGlynn said. “I thought I was ready to slow down and return to driving a tractor in the fields of Rice County. But when my own kids started high school and there was a transition in the theatre department, I realized I wanted them to experience the same kind of exciting, fun memories on stage that I’ve given countless other students.”

One of McGlynn’s first goals was to establish a Thespian troupe at Sterling—something the school had never done before, despite its long history in theatre. “My old theatre teacher, Betsy Dutton, was here for over 40 years, but she also coached debate and forensics and taught senior English,” he said. “I’m the part-time theatre teacher, so I thought, ‘I should do this.’ Starting a Thespian troupe would enrich the students’ experience—not just performing, but serving the community and sharing meaningful stories.”

That vision became reality on December 10, when 13 students were inducted during Sterling High School’s inaugural Thespian ceremony.

The International Thespian Society is an honor organization that recognizes student achievement in theatre arts through a point system based on performance, technical work, leadership, and service. Membership opens the door to events such as the Kansas Thespian Festival, held annually at Century II in Wichita.

This year’s festival will take place January 8–10, 2026, and eight of Sterling’s 13 Thespians plan to attend. The three-day event brings together more than 1,800 high school theatre students for performances, workshops, college auditions, and professional development.

“I am most pumped to go to the Kansas Thespian Festival,” said Trace DeShon, the troupe’s secretary. “From what I’ve heard, the energy and enthusiasm of that many theatre students is incredible. I can’t wait.”

Sophomore James McGlynn is also looking forward to the experience. “I’m excited to go as a real Thespian,” he said. “I’ve gone for years to support my dad as a director, helping build sets and watching workshops. Now I get to experience all of that as a student.”

While the opportunity is exciting, it also comes with financial challenges. Each student must pay a $150 registration fee, and the total cost for registration, hotel, and food for the eight attending students exceeds $3,000. To help offset expenses, the troupe has been actively fundraising through events such as a Haunted Theatre on Halloween and a Children’s Theatre Workshop for elementary students earlier this fall. Those efforts have covered much of the cost, but additional support is still needed.

Community members who wish to help support Sterling High School’s new Thespian troupe and its trip to the state festival may write a check to Sterling High School, noting “Thespians” on the memo line.

McGlynn brings extensive festival experience to the program, having had seven productions selected for performance at the Kansas Thespian Festival and two advance to the International Thespian Festival. He has already set a goal for the Sterling program. “I want to see a Sterling High School production perform at the Kansas Thespian Festival within the next few years,” he said.

Sterling High Theatre currently produces a three-show season in the Betsy Dutton Auditorium, along with student-led projects and community outreach. With the formation of Thespian Troupe #12627, the program is building a strong foundation for student leadership, artistic excellence, and service—ensuring that the curtain is just rising on a new era for theatre at Sterling High School.

“The goal of Sterling High Theatre is to create high-quality, professional-level theatre that’s accessible to the entire community,” McGlynn said. “Our mission is to share the enriching experience of live theatre—to expose, educate, entertain, and excite.”

Sterling High School launches Thespian Chapter

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Trace Adkins to Open 2026 Kansas State Fair on Sept. 11

Country music star Trace Adkins will open the 2026 Kansas State Fair with a special Grandstand concert on Friday, Sept. 11, marking both the opening day of the fair and the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

Kansas State Fair Executive Director Bryan Schulz announced the concert on Monday morning, noting the significance of the date and Adkins’ long-standing support for veterans and first responders.

“Opening day of the Kansas State Fair is September 11, and with this being the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we wanted an artist who truly represents patriotism and respect for our military and first responders,” Schulz said. “Trace Adkins was the perfect fit.”

The concert is part of Adkins’ 30th Anniversary Tour, celebrating three decades since the release of his debut album Dreamin’ Out Loud. His career includes more than 40 charted singles, 14 studio albums, and multiple No. 1 hits, including “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing” and “Every Light in the House.”

Adkins will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. at the Kansas Star Casino Grandstand, reflecting a new naming sponsorship for the Grandstand in 2026.

Ticket pricing ranges from reserved Grandstand seating at $45 to $55, Party Pit tickets at $85, VIP Deck standing tickets at $110—which include two drinks and appetizers—and reserved VIP tables priced at $835 for six people, which include food, drinks, and early Grandstand entry.

Ticket sales will roll out in phases:

Schulz encouraged fans to purchase tickets directly through the official Kansas State Fair website to avoid third-party resale issues.

In addition to the Adkins concert, Schulz said 2026 will be a milestone year for the Kansas State Fair, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States, the 35th anniversary of the Little Red Schoolhouse, and the 140th anniversary of 4-H. Fair officials are also hopeful that the Bison Arena will be available for part of the 2026 fair run.

More information and ticket details are available at <a href="http://kansasstatefair.gov">kansasstatefair.gov</a>.

Trace Adkins to open 2026 Kansas State Fair on Sept. 11

Three-day outlook

Hutchinson firefighters battled a structure fire early on Monday morning.

 Division Chief of Operations Jeremy Unruh said that at approximately 3:30 a.m., crews responded to a report of a possible structure fire near 56th Street and Old K-61. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire coming from a structure that appeared to have been burning for an extended period of time.

Fire crews initiated a defensive fire attack and established rural water operations to support suppression efforts. The fire was considered under control around 4:15 a.m., though crews remained on scene for several hours addressing hot spots.

56th Street is expected to remain closed until approximately noon today as crews continue working throughout the morning hours.

Fire investigators are scheduled to begin investigating the cause of the fire at daybreak. No firefighter injuries were reported.

Hutch firefighters battle early morning structure fire

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Shane	Roy	Kinast	12/14/2025 5:51&nbsp;AM	DUI; 2nd conv; blood or breath .08 or higher,				Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance

Daily Bookings

 The Reno County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a new scam targeting families of inmates who have recently been taken into custody.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, scammers are calling family members shortly after an individual is booked into the Reno County Jail. The caller falsely claims to be an employee of the Sheriff’s Office or jail staff and tells the family that bond payment is required immediately.

Officials say the scammers are asking victims to send money using Apple Pay, gift cards, Bitcoin, or other forms of cryptocurrency.

The Reno County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that deputies and jail staff will never call individuals to request bond payments or any other fees over the phone, and they will never ask for payment via gift cards, mobile payment apps, or cryptocurrency.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call related to an inmate is urged not to send money and to report the incident to the Reno County Sheriff’s Office. Residents are also encouraged to warn family members and friends about the scam to help prevent further victimization.

Sheriff's Office warns of new scam

The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education will meet Monday, Dec. 15, at 6 p.m. at the district administration center, 1520 N. Plum St.

Board members are scheduled to take action on the district’s 2024–2025 financial audit, with a recommendation to approve the audit as presented.

The agenda also includes superintendent updates, assigned board committee reports, and a period for public participation, during which parents and taxpayers may address the board for up to five minutes per speaker.

Consent items include approval of the Nov. 24 board meeting minutes, November 2025 accounts payable, the November treasurer’s report, appointment of David Cunningham of KASB as lead negotiator for the board, and acceptance of gifts to schools.

The board is also expected to enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters followed by action on the personnel report.&nbsp;

The next Board of Education is scheduled for Jan. 12.&nbsp;

USD 308 Board of Education to meet, approve annual audit

CRAWFORD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that sent to women to the hospital.

Just after 2a.m. December 14, 2025, at 2:14 a.m., the Pittsburg, Kansas, Police Department dispatch center received a call about two victims who were shot and were being driven to the hospital by personal vehicle, according to a media release.

 While this call was received, another call came into dispatch about gunshots being heard in the area of west 20th Street in Pittsburg. Officers responded to the area of west 20th Street as well as Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg.   

Officers at the hospital located a 22-year-old woman and a 23-year-old woman suffered gunshot wounds. Both victims began receiving treatment and were later flown to KU Medical Center in Kansas City for additional treatment.  Both victims are currently listed as being in stable condition. 

Officers were informed that the shooting incident occurred in the alley of the 300 block of west 20th Street.  Officers located evidence related to the shooting in the alley and secured the crime scene.  Three individuals who drove the victims to the hospital were transported to the police department to be interviewed.  Detectives from the police department responded to assist with the investigation.   

After interviewing the witnesses, officers were able to determine that an altercation took place between the two victims and one of the subjects from the vehicle.  During the altercation, another occupant of the vehicle who was not involved in the altercation, shot the two women.

As a result, 23-year-old Walter Herrera Alvarez, of Pittsburg, was placed under arrest.  The other individuals were released after being interviewed.   

&nbsp;Alvarez was transported to the jail located at the Crawford County Sheriff’s office for booking and he is being held without bond on requested charges that include two counts of Aggravated Battery.&nbsp;

Police: 2 Kansas woman injured in shooting during an alley fight 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. military said Monday that it attacked three boats accused of smuggling drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing a total of eight people as scrutiny over the boat strikes is intensifying in Congress.

The military said in a statement on social media that the strikes targeted “designated terrorist organizations,” killing three people in the first vessel, two in the second boat and three in the third boat. It didn’t provide evidence of their alleged drug trafficking but posted a video of a boat moving through water before exploding.

President Donald Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-drugs-venezuela-911-hegseth-3db3aafed492556bb9ca7de855c4849e">justified the attacks</a>&nbsp;as a necessary escalation to stem the flow of drugs into the United States and asserted the U.S. is engaged in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cartels-armed-conflict-cb57804807e55a00ace60ad5f4d4f24d">“armed conflict” with drug cartels</a>. But the Trump administration is facing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boat-strikes-pete-hegseth-venezuela-9f46a5f074b5b3c979ee41082949b196">increasing scrutiny from lawmakers</a>&nbsp;over the boat strike campaign, which has killed at least 95 people in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-petro-colombia-drugs-us-aid-c3955b2ce351737119920741178e0567">25 known strikes</a>&nbsp;since early September, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-strike-video-footage-boat-caribbean-3cf2ca9cbe4523978e935b99c2979caa">a follow-up strike that killed two survivors</a>&nbsp;clinging to the wreckage of a boat after the first hit.

The latest boat strikes come on the eve of briefings on Capitol Hill for all members of Congress as questions mount over the Trump administration’s military campaign.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other top national security officials are expected to provide closed-door briefings for lawmakers in the House and Senate.

The campaign has ramped up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/caribbean-indictments-armed-forces-united-states-miami-d82797206561db03851e47df125c243f">charged with narcoterrorism</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. In a sharp escalation last week, U.S. forces&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">seized a sanctioned oil tanker</a>&nbsp;that the Trump administration has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-oil-trump-sanctions-maduro-a2ef5b45b48365861e0a724d8c27dce3">accused of smuggling illicit crude</a>. Maduro has insisted the real purpose of the U.S. military operations is to force him from office.

The U.S. military has built up its largest presence in the region in decades and launched a series of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hegseth-pentagon-drug-boats-pacific-35a60ce3bc018e5f66c18b2d18b49c35">deadly strikes on alleged drug-smuggling boats</a>&nbsp;in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. Trump says&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cartels-maduro-colombia-petro-boats-559a73dbfcbdc9245494f441be1aad39">land attacks are coming soon</a>&nbsp;but has not offered any details on location.

🎥US military conducts more drug boat strikes killing 8

COWLEY COUNTY —One Kansas school district is starting holiday break early due to sickness across the district.

On their social media page USD 471 Dexter wrote, "we are going through a tremendous amount of sickness right now and it seems to be spreading at a very high rate."

"Due to a high number of students and staff illnesses and the rate at which it continues to climb the school dismissing for the semester Monday afternoon." "All scheduled end of the semester activities, extra curricular activity competitions, and classes starting Tuesday will be postponed, canceled, and/or rescheduled for a later date in the 2nd Semester."

  Not only are we concerned with student and staff sickness now we don't want to continue to spread the sickness and end up with students taking it to their extended families over the holiday break. 

"We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep our students, staff, and school community healthy.' The community is located approximately 70 miles southeast of Wichita.

Kan. school district starts winter break early due to spread of illness

The Powerball® jackpot has surged to an estimated $1.25 billion for Wednesday night’s drawing, giving players nationwide another chance to dream big this holiday season. The jackpot has an estimated cash value of $572.1 million, according to a statement from the Multi-State Lottery Association.

Wednesday’s jackpot is the second-largest Powerball prize this year, behind the $1.787 billion prize won on Sept. 6 in Missouri and Texas. This marks only the second time in Powerball history that the game has generated back-to-back billion-dollar jackpots.

“Powerball has only seen back-to-back to billion-dollar jackpots twice, and this one has arrived just in time for the holidays,” said Matt Strawn, Iowa Lottery CEO and Powerball Product Group Chair. “While it’s exciting to see the jackpot climb to this level, please remember to play responsibly. A single $2 ticket gives you a chance to win, while also supporting good causes in your community.”

The jackpot rolled last night after no ticket matched all six numbers drawn – white balls 23, 35, 59, 63, 68 and red Powerball 2. The Power Play® multiplier was 4.

Although there was no jackpot winner, U.S. lotteries are reminding players to check their tickets carefully to see if they have won any cash prizes.

Two tickets, sold in Arizona and California, matched all five white balls to win $1 million prizes. The drawing also produced 43 tickets that won $50,000 prizes and 14 tickets that won $200,000 prizes.

Note: In California, prize payout amounts are pari-mutuel and determined by sales and the number of winners.

Wednesday’s drawing will be the 44th in the current jackpot run – a game record for the most drawings in a jackpot cycle. The Powerball jackpot was last won on Sept. 6 by two tickets in Missouri and Texas that split a $1.787 billion prize.

The only other time the Powerball game generated back-to-back billion-dollar jackpots was in 2023, when a $1.08 billion jackpot was won on July 19, followed by a $1.765 billion jackpot won on Oct. 11. Both jackpots were won by players in California.

If a player wins Wednesday’s jackpot, they will have the choice between an annuitized prize estimated at $1.25 billion or a lump sum payment estimated at $572.1 million. Both prize options are before taxes. If the winner selects the annuity option, they will receive one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments that increase by 5-percent each year.

Powerball® tickets are $2 per play. Tickets are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than half of all proceeds from the sale of a Powerball ticket remain in the jurisdiction where the ticket was sold. Since its first drawing in 1992, the Powerball game has helped generate more than $37 billion for good causes supported by U.S. lotteries.

Powerball drawings are broadcast live every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET from the Florida Lottery draw studio in Tallahassee, Fla. Powerball drawings are also live streamed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.powerball.com/watch-drawing">Powerball.com</a>.

The overall odds of winning a prize are 1 in 24.9. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.

<a href="https://www.powerball.com/">Powerball</a>

Merry Christmas: Powerball jackpot surges to $1.25 billion

JOHNSON COUNTY —A woman who was reported missing early Sunday morning near a golf course in Lenexa has been found dead, according an online state from Lenexa police.

Just before 6a.m. Sunday, Amber J. Foster was last seen in the area of W. 87th Street Parkway and Winchester in Lenexa (17300 block of W. 87th Street Parkway)

She was described as wearing an orange t-shirt, over a long-sleeve white shirt, and blue jeans. Amber’s vehicle was located in a nearby parking garage, and she was last seen on foot walking towards the Canyon Farms Golf Course.&nbsp;

Just after 11:30a.m. Monday her body was found near W. 86th and Haven Street.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Police: Missing Kansas woman found dead near a golf course

WICHITA, KAN. – An Arizona man was sentenced to 272 months in prison for his part in a drug trafficking ring that transported large amounts of fentanyl into Kansas, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Rafael Turner, 35, of Phoenix, Arizona, and formerly of Wichita, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

Beginning on a date unknown and continuing through March 2023, Turner conspired with other people to distribute fentanyl.&nbsp;

“Turner was part of a criminal organization that injected both fentanyl and illegal drug proceeds into our communities,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Special Agent in Charge William Steenson, St. Louis Field Office. “We’re more committed than ever to using our financial expertise to help disrupt these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”

Forty-five other individuals were prosecuted as part of this overall investigation, which included individuals in Kansas. &nbsp;Across the country, individuals have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing. Included among them are Clifton Ray Weatherspoon, 33, and Antonio Dawayne Knight, 27, both of Wichita, who were each convicted of one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Weatherspoon was sentenced to 300 months in prison. Knight was sentenced to 150 months in prison.&nbsp;

In February 2023, Weatherspoon and Knight traveled by plane from Wichita to Phoenix, Arizona, to purchase 300,000 fentanyl pills. They packed the pills into two suitcases, checked the luggage under their names, and flew back to Wichita. Pursuant to a federal search warrant, law enforcement officers seized one of the bags before it reached the baggage claim area. They x-rayed and searched the luggage and discovered 15 bags stuffed inside containing 150,000 fentanyl pills. Agents arrested Weatherspoon and Knight, who had by then retrieved the second suitcase from baggage claim. A search of that bag showed it also contained approximately 150,000 fentanyl pills.

“Over the past few years, the federal government has partnered with state and local governments as well as community groups to curtail the fentanyl crisis. The prosecution of this large drug conspiracy was part of that work. However, we are not done in these efforts. While we try to save lives by raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, criminals seek to undermine that hard work” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Fentanyl dealers have little to no regard for human life and are willing to let children get ahold of this poison in efforts to turn a profit. We are grateful to law enforcement agents whose investigations keep this toxic substance off our streets.”

Man transported large amounts of fentanyl into Kansas.

&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the death of a 4-year-old&nbsp; made his hit first appearance in court on Friday.

A Sedgwick County Judge charged 34-year-old Daniel Martin with&nbsp; first degree murder and child abuse in the death of Tiuri Blunt-Porrata, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just before 3:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp; responded to a medical call regarding an unresponsive 4-year-old child in the 2600 block of South Topeka in Wichita, according to police department spokesman Andrew Ford. The child identified as Tirui Blunt-Porrata, according to an online fundraiser, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased at 4:07 p.m.

Police booked Martin,&nbsp; into the Sedgwick County Jail where he remains on a $1 million bond, according to online jail records.

In the online fundraise, Nathaniel Porrata, " I’m Tiuri’s father. I recently moved to a new city to help restart my family’s life, hoping it would bring us a brighter future." 

"I had just landed a new job, and our finances were finally starting to recover. My soon to be ex-wife and our children were planning to join me at the beginning of 2026, and we were looking forward to being together again as a family."

"Tragically, on Monday, November 8th, 2025, my 4 year old son, Tiuri Blunt-Porrata, became the victim of a horrible crime and passed away. The investigation is still ongoing, so I am unable to share more details at this time."

"My world has been turned upside down. I am struggling to process the pain and shock of losing Tiuri so suddenly."<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-tiuri-bluntporratas-memory"> Click here to view</a> the fundraiser.

Kan. suspect in abuse death of 4-year-old faces a judge

NEW YORK (AP) —Anthony Geary, who rose to fame in the 1970s and ‘80s as half the daytime TV super couple Luke and Laura on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-hospital-60-years-soap-opera-120ba44b08ac517a56b94257b294a678">“General Hospital,”</a>&nbsp;has died. He was 78.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Anthony Geary, whose portrayal of Luke Spencer helped define General Hospital and daytime television,” ABC said in a statement confirming his death.

Geary died Sunday in Amsterdam of complications from a surgical procedure three days prior.

“The entire ‘General Hospital’ family is heartbroken over the news of Tony Geary’s passing,” Frank Valentini, executive producer of the ABC show, said in a statement Monday. “Tony was a brilliant actor and set the bar that we continue to strive for.”

In a career spanning more than 40 years, Geary earned eight Daytime Emmy awards as Luke Spencer after joining the soap in 1978. Luke’s pairing with Genie Francis’ Laura Webber Baldwin (as she was known at the time) propelled the two onto magazine covers and into the cultural mainstream.

The 1981 wedding of Luke and Laura was a pop culture phenom done in two parts, drawing guest appearances that included Elizabeth Taylor. A record 30 million viewers watched.

“He was a powerhouse as an actor. Shoulder to shoulder with the greats. No star burned brighter than Tony Geary. He was one of a kind. As an artist, he was filled with a passion for the truth, no matter how blunt, or even a little rude it might be, but always hilariously funny,” Francis said in a statement.

In addition to his role as Luke, Geary had numerous TV and stage credits, including stints on other soaps: “The Young and the Restless” and “Bright Promise.” Geary played Luke on and off until 2015, though he returned for a cameo in 2017.

He lived a quiet life with husband Claudio Gama in Amsterdam.

<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=interviews+with+Tony+Geary&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1053US1054&amp;oq=interviews+with+Tony+Geary&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRigATIHCAMQIRigATIHCAQQIRigATIHCAUQIRiPAtIBCDM3OThqMGo3qAIIsAIB8QUmeU6L-Rg5lfEFJnlOi_kYOZU&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:79c41a52,vid:3YNGiHX9_sc,st:0" target="_blank">In a 1993 interview</a>, Geary spoke of the many highs and lows of playing Luke.

“I felt like I had to be Luke 24 hours a day or people would be disappointed,” he said. “As far as I’m concerned, they are mythic creatures. They come from two sides of the universe together and have a mutual connection, which is basically lust and appreciation for individuality. They love the eccentricity in each other.”

Geary’s Luke began as a small-time hitman recruited to dismantle the relationship of Laura and her first husband, Scotty Baldwin. Their story arc turned darker when Luke sexually assaulted Laura. The assault led to a redemption trail for Luke, who evolved into a hero and even served as mayor of the show’s small town, Port Charles.

“He was not created to be a heroic character,” Geary&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/anthony-geary-reflects-37-years-playing-dark-dangerous/story?id=32619755" target="_blank">told</a>&nbsp;ABC’s “Nightline” in 2015. “He was created to be an anti-hero, and I have treasured the anti-side of the hero and pushed it for a long time. ... He’s not a white hat or a black hat, he’s all shades of grey. And that has been the saving grace of playing him all these years.”

Geary was born to Mormon parents in Coalville, Utah. He was discovered while attending the University of Utah and performing on stage. He joined a touring company of “The Subject was Roses,” which brought him to Los Angeles.

Over the years, he appeared frequently in stage productions alongside his screen work.

Geary’s first appearance on TV was as Tom Whalom on an episode of “Room 222.” He went on to appear in “All in the Family,” “The Partridge Family,” “The Mod Squad,” “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” “The Streets of San Francisco” and “Barnaby Jones.”

'General Hospital' star Anthony Geary of Luke and Laura fame dies at 78

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Monday blamed Rob Reiner’s outspoken opposition to the president for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rob-reiner-dead-9a87be595a7da742394829afc6f1132e">actor-director’s killing</a>, delivering the unsubstantiated claim in a shocking post that seemed intent on decrying his opponents even in the face of a tragedy.

The statement, even for Trump, was a shocking comment that came as police were still investigating the deaths of the director and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, as an apparent homicide. The couple were found dead at their home Sunday in Los Angeles. Investigators believe they suffered stab wounds and the couple’s son Nick Reiner&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/rob-michele-reiner-dead-updates">was in police custody early Monday</a>.

Trump has a long track record of inflammatory remarks, but his comments in a social media post were a drastic departure from the role presidents typically play in offering a message of consolation or tribute after the death of a public figure. His message drew criticism even from conservatives and his supporters and laid bare Trump’s unwillingness to rise above political grievance in moments of crisis.

Trump, in a post on his social media network, said Reiner and his wife were killed “reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME.”

He said Reiner “was known to have driven people CRAZY by his raging obsession of President Donald J. Trump, with his obvious paranoia reaching new heights as the Trump Administration surpassed all goals and expectations of greatness.”

The president did not mention his personal connection to Reiner’s wife, who was a photographer. Peter Osnos, the original publisher of “The Art of the Deal,” confirmed Monday that Michele Singer took the cover image of Trump’s 1987 bestseller.

Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie, who has bucked much of his party’s lockstep agreement with the president, criticized Trump for the comment.

“Regardless of how you felt about Rob Reiner, this is inappropriate and disrespectful discourse about a man who was just brutally murdered,” Massie wrote in a post on X. “I guess my elected GOP colleagues, the VP, and White House staff will just ignore it because they’re afraid? I challenge anyone to defend it.”

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican whom Trump branded a “traitor” for disagreeing with him, responded to Trump’s message by saying, “This is a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies.”

Republican Reps. Mike Lawler of New York and Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma, who are not known for pushing back on the White House, also criticized Trump’s message.

Reiner — a director of beloved films like “The Princess Bride” and “When Harry Met Sally” — was one of the most active Democrats in the film industry and regularly campaigned on behalf of liberal causes and hosted fundraisers. He was a vocal critic of Trump, calling him in a 2017 interview with Variety “mentally unfit” to be president and “the single-most unqualified human being to ever assume the presidency of the United States.”

The White House, which shared the president’s post, did not respond to a message about the criticism it was receiving and calls for Trump to take it down.

Speaking at the White House to reporters later Monday, Trump doubled down on his criticism of Reiner when he was asked if he stood by his post. Using the third person, Trump said Reiner “was a deranged person as far as Trump is concerned.”

“I was not a fan of Rob Reiner at all, in any way shape or form,” Trump said. “I thought he was very bad for our country.”

The unsympathetic message was the latest example of Trump’s unsparing prism through which he views those he perceives as enemies.

He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-revenge-bolton-military-deployments-aa2b977621bce563770b60dade581f79">made retribution against political enemies</a>&nbsp;a prime focus of his campaign for the White House last year. And he has in the past made light of violence when it’s befallen those on the other side of the political aisle.

When Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul Pelosi, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paul-pelosi-assaulted-156ece77186eb11b97260af3c5122f67">attacked by an intruder looking for the former House speaker</a>&nbsp;at the family’s San Francisco home in 2022 and beaten over the head with a hammer, Trump later mocked the attack.

That’s despite his comments after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;earlier this year. Trump said Kirk’s killing was “the tragic consequence of demonizing those with whom you disagree.”

His administration then sought consequences for people who were critical of Kirk or even celebrated his killing.

Jenna Ellis, who was one of Trump’s lawyers and worked on his efforts in 2020 to overturn the results of the presidential election, pointed out Trump’s double standard and called his post “NOT the appropriate response.”

“The Right uniformly condemned political and celebratory responses to Charlie Kirk’s death. This is a horrible example from Trump (and surprising considering the two attempts on his own life) and should be condemned by everyone with any decency,” Ellis said in a post on X.

When Trump spoke at Kirk’s memorial service, he used his remarks to underline how he views his adversaries.

“I hate my opponent,” the president said.

🎥Trump doubles down on criticizing Rob Reiner after his killing

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting in Ford County have released the name of the victim as&nbsp;27-year-old Blane Enyeart, according to the Ford County Sheriff's office.

Just before 6p.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies responded to a home north of Dodge City, according to a media release. First responders including Dodge City Police and Ford County EMS found Enyeart dead from a gunshot wound.

Investigators questioned those who were inside the home. The sheriff's office has not reported an arrest or additional details on what led to the shooting.

Sheriff releases name of victim in fatal SW Kansas killing

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs know they will be playing out the final three games of the season without Patrick Mahomes, who had surgery Monday night to repair the torn left ACL that he sustained in a loss to the Los Angeles Chargers that eliminated them from playoff contention.

The rest of the future is far more hazy for an organization that for the past decade has been playing well into January, and often into February, and then spent the offseason simply reinforcing a brilliant but suddenly aging core of star players.

Will Mahomes sufficiently recover by the start of next season? Will tight end Travis Kelce retire? And coach Andy Reid, for that matter? Will general manager Brett Veach finally hit on some skill position talent, especially in the early rounds of the draft? And can the Chiefs find someone — anyone — who is capable of pressuring the quarterback on an every-down basis?

“You know, I'm always optimistic about going forward,” Reid said Monday. “Brett Veach does a heck of a job with bringing in players. You can see now with the guys playing. And then it's our responsibility on the coaching side of it, and the players taking responsibility on their end, and playing these three games, and whoever is here after to retool it.”

The finishing kick begins with a trip to lowly Tennessee on Sunday.

Kelce recently said he would inform the Chiefs on whether he plans to retire by early March, before the start of free agency, so they have a chance to plan accordingly. Role players such as wide receiver Marquise Brown, running back Isiah Pacheco, cornerback Jaylen Watson and safety Bryan Cook are pending free agents, and there are holes throughout the roster.

The most pressing needs are at wide receiver, where Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy have failed to take the next step into becoming a No. 1 target; running back, where Pacheco and Kareem Hunt have failed to provide any pop; and defensive end, where the Chiefs have struggled to generate a pass rush throughout the season.

Oh, and quarterback. They have nobody under contract for next season besides Mahomes. The two-time MVP's surgery was performed in Dallas by Dr. Dan Cooper, the Chiefs announced, adding that Mahomes would start rehabbing right away.

“When you lose close games, you search for things,” Reid said, “because you want to fix it. And sometimes it's a penalty here, it's a turnover here. You get a variety of things. It's always one little thing that determines close games, normally. And we've had our share of those, and you can't have those. It could be the wrong play — calling the wrong play at the wrong time. We've all got a piece in this thing, and you've got to keep striving to fix it, and do what you have to do in the offseason.”

The Chiefs were concerned about their rush defense at the onset of the season, but it has been quietly stellar. They held the Chargers to just 94 yards on 29 carries — a paltry 3.2 per attempt — and repeatedly gave their offense an opportunity with the ball.

The offense. All of it. Imagine saying that five years ago. After years spent drafting at the end of Round 1, the Chiefs should be closer to the top 10, and that means a better opportunity to get an impact player to help an offense gone stagnant.

WR Tyquan Thornton has earned more time on the field. He has been the Chiefs' best big-play threat in the passing game, and the way he hauled in a long pass while taking a vicious shot late on Sunday underscored his desire to help Kansas City win.

Rice had seven catches for just 57 yards, but he also had another drop and appeared to take several plays off. Then he refused to talk to reporters who wanted to ask him about the performance after the game, leaving his teammates to do it for him.

Thornton (concussion protocol) and RT Jaylon Moore (knee) didn't finish the game against the Chargers. ... The Chiefs also had CB Trent McDuffie (knee), LT Wanya Morris (knee), Brown (personal) and RG Trey Smith (ankle) inactive.

10 — The number of consecutive years that Kansas City had qualified for the playoffs.

The Chiefs visit the Titans for a meaningless game Sunday, unless you factor in draft positioning. Then they return home for a chance to play spoiler against AFC West-leading Denver on Christmas night. The finale is on the road against the Raiders.

🏈 Chiefs face uncertain future as Patrick Mahomes has ACL surgery

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community College entered the 2025 football season with the confidence of a defending national champion and the weight of a preseason No. 1 ranking. Twelve games later, the Blue Dragons have met every challenge, earning a return trip to Bain-Schaeffer Buffalo Stadium for Wednesday’s NJCAA Division I Football Championship game against a familiar opponent in Iowa Western.

For head coach Drew Dallas, who is leading the program into its fourth title-game appearance in six seasons, the moment still carries the same electricity as his first.

“It’s always an exciting day, and just the opportunity to come out and compete for our ultimate goal that we set out to do at the beginning of the year is really fun,” Dallas said.

Hutchinson began the year with a symbolic detour, stopping in Canyon during a Week 1 trip to New Mexico for a brief practice inside the venue that would ultimately determine its fate.

“It was a pretty cool deal to start the season off where you want to end the season,” Dallas said. “The timing of that trip was perfect to set the tone for what we wanted to accomplish. Being back here is special, but we know that is not the ultimate goal. We want to take care of business and win it.”

The Blue Dragons arrive with momentum after a 27-0 semifinal victory over Northwest Mississippi, their third shutout of the season. The defense allowed few explosive plays, dominated third down, and controlled field position, which Dallas described as the natural result of consistent execution.

“When you are good at extending drives, getting off the field on third down and playing great special teams, time of possession comes naturally,” Dallas said. “It is a great stat to look back on and say we are doing a lot of things really well.”

Offensive coordinator Tony Koehling has witnessed every layer of the Hutchinson-Iowa Western rivalry, having coached for both programs before joining the Blue Dragons in 2023. He said the continued success of each school stems from stability and culture.

“Both programs are run at an elite level,” Koehling said. “They recruit some of the best players in the country because of the continued success. I think it is a testament to the coaching staffs and how both places are able to rebuild and recreate the culture every year.”

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