 National Modular MFG LLC has signed a long-term lease to double the size of its Kansas operations, expanding into a 57,600-square-foot facility at the Kansas Enterprise Industrial Park in Hutchinson.

The company, which operates in Haven, Kansas, and Providence, North Carolina, manufactures modular units for national brands including 7 Brew Coffee. Company officials said the additional space will significantly increase manufacturing capacity and support continued growth.

National Modular said its facilities combine the strength and quality of traditional site-built construction with the added benefits of transportability and efficiency. The company completed 138 drive-thru buildings last year and expects the expansion to allow it to complete at least 200 units this year.

The manufacturer distinguishes itself by using welded steel frames exclusively, engineering its structures to meet snow, wind and seismic requirements across the United States and Canada. In addition to constructing the buildings, National Modular also designs and delivers full drive-thru canopy systems — a component often supplied separately in modular or site-built projects.

Company representatives said leasing the spec building in Hutchinson allowed for immediate expansion. They credited city and county leaders for supporting the company’s rapid growth since it established operations in Haven more than five years ago.

Brad Pryor of Salt City Investments said the spec building was designed to accommodate growing companies seeking ready-to-occupy industrial space.

“This is exactly the type of project we are proud to support,” Pryor said, adding that the development model is expected to be replicated for future projects.

Reno County Commission Chair Ron Hirst said the county remains committed to economic development efforts that create jobs and generate broader economic impact.

Hutchinson Mayor Scott Meggers said the city supported the vision for development in the industrial park to demonstrate that Hutchinson is positioned for business expansion.

Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, said the availability of modern, move-in-ready industrial space played a key role in facilitating the company’s growth and strengthening its long-term investment in Reno County.

National Modular MFG to expand locally

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Grace Episcopal, Emanuel Lutheran, First Presbyterian, First Mennonite and Trinity United Methodist churches will jointly host “God’s Chosen Fast: Justice, Mercy, Humility,” a five-week worship and luncheon series beginning Feb. 25 at Trinity United Methodist Church.

Each congregation will take turns hosting the event during Lent. Luncheons begin at 12:05 p.m. and include worship, a brief sermon and a light meal. Pastors from the other participating churches will speak and assist at the host church each week. The gatherings conclude promptly at 1 p.m., although guests are welcome to stay longer.

“The Season of Lent is a season of renewal and reorientation,” said the Rev. Dr. J. Ted Blakley, rector of Grace Episcopal Church. “Lent has a long and deep history in the various expressions of the Christian faith. These ecumenical lunches give us an opportunity to worship together, to learn from one another, and to appreciate the wisdom and the diversity of the gifts of our neighbors in the faith.”

All luncheons are free and open to the public.

Grace Episcopal Church
Founded in 1879, Grace Episcopal Church is part of the Diocese of Western Kansas and the worldwide Anglican Communion. More information is available at <a href="http://www.gracechurchhutch.org">www.gracechurchhutch.org</a>.

Emanuel Lutheran Church
Founded in 1886, Emanuel Lutheran Church is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Learn more at <a href="http://www.emanuel-hutchinson.org">www.emanuel-hutchinson.org</a>.

First Presbyterian Church
A congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the Presbytery of Southern Kansas and the Synod of Mid-America, First Presbyterian has been located at the corner of Sherman and Poplar in Hutchinson for 150 years. More information is available at <a href="http://www.fpchutch.org">www.fpchutch.org</a>.

First Mennonite Church
First Mennonite Church traces its roots to 1913, when members met in homes and in a room above Bloom’s Drug Store on Main Street. The congregation now worships at 21st and Rambler Road and is part of Mennonite Church USA. Learn more at <a href="http://www.hutchfmc.org">www.hutchfmc.org</a>.

Trinity United Methodist Church
Since 1923, Trinity United Methodist Church has provided worship services, community outreach and programs for all ages. It is located at the southeast corner of 17th and Main. More information is available at <a href="http://www.trinityhutch.org">www.trinityhutch.org</a>.

Five Hutchinson churches join for lenten worship series

Here's a list of events happening around the area.&nbsp; If your club or organization has an event, you can e-mail the information to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@eaglemedia.com">HutchPost@eaglemedia.com.</a>

Hutch CC Men’s &amp; Women’s Basketball vs Colby – 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hutchinson Sports Arena&nbsp;

Third Thursday 6 to&nbsp;8&nbsp;p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Downtown Hutchinson&nbsp;

Salthawk&nbsp;Basketball&nbsp;vs&nbsp;Newton – 6 and 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Newton High School&nbsp;

“Newsies” - Family Community Theater – 7:30 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;301 North Main Street&nbsp;

Fox Live Series – Celebrate Neil Diamond: ‘I Am, He Said’&nbsp;- 7:30 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hutchinson Fox Theater – 18 East First&nbsp;

Saturday Morning Artists – 9 to 11:30 a.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Hutchinson Art Center&nbsp;

Hutch CC Men’s &amp; Women’s Basketball at Coffeyville – 2 &amp; 4 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Nellis Hall, Coffeyville&nbsp;

“Newsies” - Family Community Theater – 3 p.m. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;301 North Main Street&nbsp;

Happenings Around Hutch • Feb. 18 - 22

Hutchinson Community College is proud to join fellow Kansas community colleges and the Kansas Air National Guard (KSANG) in a new collaborative effort aimed at strengthening the state and nation’s cybersecurity workforce.

Recently highlighted by U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, the partnership creates new opportunities for community college students across Kansas to engage directly in training that supports industries throughout Kansas and the nation.

“The safety of our communities is inextricably linked to the security of our digital networks,” said Dr. Tricia Paramore, president of Hutchinson Community College. “Cybersecurity threats impact every industry — from our local hospitals and small businesses to our schools and public agencies. This partnership expands access, strengthens learning opportunities, and demonstrates the power of collaboration in protecting our communities.”

The initiative also reinforces the vital role Kansas community colleges play in workforce development and national security.

“This isn’t just a curriculum enhancement — it’s a direct pipeline to the front lines of digital defense,” said Jesse Newberry, associate professor of Information Technology at Hutchinson Community College. “Our students are learning to defend the same types of systems that support our national infrastructure. Through this partnership, they gain exposure to high-level cybersecurity challenges and are even better positioned to step into critical, high-impact roles immediately after graduation.”

While the initiative represents a powerful statewide collaboration, Hutchinson Community College is uniquely positioned to contribute through its established and comprehensive Cybersecurity program.  HutchCC offers an Associate of Science degree in Cybersecurity that prepares students through hands-on instruction in programming and secure coding. Students train using industry-relevant tools and scenarios that mirror the real-world challenges facing public and private institutions every day.

For more information on Hutchinson Community College and its cybersecurity offerings, visit the college website at www.hutchcc.edu/cybersecurity.

HutchCC joins Kansas Air National Guard partnership

The Dillon Lecture Series (DLS) is proud to announce its first speaker of the 2026 season: legendary award-winning Kansas journalist, Larry Hatteberg.

During a 51-year career centered on telling people’s stories, Hatteberg became a defining voice in Kansas local television. His “Hatteberg’s People” series remains the longest-running television feature in the state’s history, profiling nearly 2,000 Kansans and taking him to 17 foreign countries. A former prime-time anchor and executive news director for KAKE-TV, Hatteberg is also a nationally recognized teacher of photojournalism who has consulted for over 40 stations across the country and the U.S. Department of Defense.

During his lecture, Hatteberg will share insights from his half-century of storytelling — finding the extraordinary in "ordinary" people and illuminating the human spirit through the lens of a camera.

Patrons and attendees should take special note of a change to the traditional schedule for this event. Unlike most Dillon Lectures, which are held in the morning at the Sports Arena, Hatteberg will speak at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the Hutchinson Community College campus.

“Larry Hatteberg is a respected storyteller whose work has had a lasting impact on Kansas communities,” said Susan Buttram, chair of the Dillon Lecture Committee. “We’re excited to welcome him to Hutchinson for what promises to be a meaningful and engaging lecture.”

Tickets to the lecture are available now at <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/dillon-lecture-series">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a> and will also be available beginning at 1:15 pm the day of the lecture at the Stringer Fine Arts Center.

2026 is the 45th season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. Since 1982, the Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College has brought distinguished and notable speakers to the Hutchinson community. Following the philosophy that "learning is the key to enlightenment," the series continues to provide audiences with access to world-class thinkers, leaders, and storytellers.

For more information on the Dillon Lecture Series or to become a patron, visit <a href="https://www.hutchcc.edu/dillon-lecture-series">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a> or call Becky Rogers at 620-665-3505.

Hatteberg to open 2026 Dillon Lecture Series

&nbsp;The Hutchinson City Council approved a new beverage sales and sponsorship agreement with PepsiCo Beverage Sales LLC that also includes Hutchinson Community College and USD 308, with city staff saying the joint contract will simplify concessions across shared venues such as Gowans Stadium and the sports arena.

Parks and Facilities Director Justin Combs said the agreement runs through June 2030 and includes minimum purchase thresholds, $1,500 in initial support funds for the city and $11,300 annually in support funds, plus 75 free cases of product. He said Pepsi provides and services equipment at no cost, with 104 total pieces of equipment citywide — including about 40 in city-owned facilities — such as coolers and vending machines. The contract caps per-unit price increases at no more than 5% annually, Combs said, and includes vending service language used by the college and school district, while the city self-services its machines.

Combs told council the city’s previous Pepsi agreement provided about $3,500 a year in benefits, making the new package “significantly more” valuable. Council members raised administrative cleanup issues, including correcting signatories listed on earlier versions of the document, before voting unanimously to approve the agreement and authorize the mayor to sign.

In a separate discussion, City Attorney Paul Brown told council an existing development agreement with Superior Holding — tied to the city’s job-creation incentive Policy 30 — already covers incentives through 2030 and requires a minimum of 10 new jobs paying at least $21 an hour with health insurance. Brown said the agreement contains no maximum number of jobs eligible for incentives, and he recommended no council action unless the company seeks amendments.

Council members and economic development representatives discussed whether the city should revisit its incentive policies to push higher wages, potential cost-of-living adjustments, “but-for” language, and additional accountability measures. Chamber officials said state incentive programs use wage thresholds tied to NAICS industry codes and noted Reno County’s median hourly wage is about $20.13 based on state assessments. A resident criticized the city’s use of incentives and wage floors, while council members defended incentives as voluntary conditions for eligibility rather than mandates.

Also during the meeting, Utilities Director David Guinn reported water system repairs and leak detection efforts reduced treated-water loss by about 117 million gallons compared with the prior year — roughly a 4% improvement — producing an estimated $166,000 in treatment cost savings and about $591,000 in potential future revenue if the saved water is sold, for total impacts nearing three-quarters of a million dollars. Guinn credited aggressive work on main breaks, leaks, hydrants and valves, and said the city plans to conduct systemwide leak detection every three years.

Strategic Growth Director Dave Sotelo also invited the public to the launch of “Build Hutch,” a yearlong, grant-funded small-scale development program designed to help residents move projects from concept to completion. The kickoff is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall, with optional registration available through the city’s website.

Council approves beverage contract, discusses development agreement

\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. ——————————————



Drew	David	Sims		2/17/2026 8:23&nbsp;AM	Forgery; Making, altering, endorsing,					Failure to Appear,					Worthless Checks; $1,000 to $24,999,					Failure to Appear

Taylor	Nichole	Ryan		2/17/2026 11:25&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Scott	Andrew	Cooley		2/17/2026 12:20&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Matthew	Adam	Collingwood		2/17/2026 2:50&nbsp;PM	In Transit From-To Other Agency

Thomas	Cody Dale	Hagan		2/17/2026 3:19&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv,					DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator,					Failure to Appear

Alyssa	Nicole	King		2/17/2026 3:42&nbsp;PM	Distr heroin/certain stim/fent;3.5 - &lt;100grams,					Possession of Parapernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance,					Failure to Appear

Marcus	Allen	Kilpatrick		2/18/2026 3:48&nbsp;AM	Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct,					Endangering a Child,					DUI; Misdemeanor,					Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm

Daily Bookings

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil rights leader, presidential candidate and founder of the organization Operation PUSH, leaves behind a legacy that supporters say reshaped American politics and expanded opportunities for marginalized communities.

Dr. Hence Parson and Darrell Pope of the "Parson and Pope" podcast reflected on Jackson’s place in history, describing him as a pivotal figure in the fight for equality, social justice and voting rights.

“He was a leader in the area of equality and social justice,” Darrell Pope said. “He did a lot to bring about change and to put it on the world’s conscience about equality and human dignity.”

Jackson rose to national prominence as a close associate of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. In the decades that followed, he founded Operation PUSH — later part of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition — advocating for economic empowerment, education access and expanded political participation.

Pope said Jackson consistently emphasized the importance of voting and civic engagement, urging Americans to take part in the democratic process even when progress seemed slow.

“His message was about equality of opportunity and justice,” Dr. Parson said. “No matter how many times you heard him, he always emphasized voting rights and making a difference in your life.”

Jackson twice sought the Democratic nomination for president, mounting historic campaigns in 1984 and 1988. Though unsuccessful, those bids are widely viewed as having broadened the political landscape and demonstrated the viability of a Black candidate competing seriously for the nation’s highest office.

Observers on the program said those campaigns helped lay the groundwork for the election of Barack Obama in 2008.

“People began recognizing that it was possible,” Dr. Parson said. “He tried to break that color barrier and laid the groundwork.”

Jackson also traveled extensively, including visits to Kansas communities such as Great Bend and Hutchinson, where residents recalled hearing him speak and attending receptions during his appearances in the state.

Those reflecting on his life said Jackson’s broader legacy lies in his insistence that diverse voices have a seat at the table.

“For too many years, that was not the case,” Dr. Parson said. “Give individuals who are different the opportunity to sit at the table and have discussions about their lives.”

Dr. Parson added that Jackson’s work underscored a belief that societies function best when inclusion is prioritized.

“It’s been proven that when everybody is included and allowed to participate, the country is better for it,” Pope added.

As communities look back on Jackson’s decades of activism, those who followed his work say the responsibility now falls on a new generation to continue advocating for fairness, opportunity and human dignity.

Parson and Pope remember Rev. Jesse Jackson

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp; &nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

Firefighters across Kansas were very busy today. Many fires were suppressed without state assistance. KFS and partners assisted with the following fires. 

Burned from Texas Co Ok into Seward Co. Located southwest of Liberal, forward progress is stopped for now and crews are actively working to extinguish hot spots. 

Located southeast Liberal is actively burning. Johnson County Task Force and KFS DFMO Williams is engaged with the local fire departments. The head fire is approaching Meade Co. 

This fire continues to burn actively and Kansas Forest Service DFMO Brad Ilonummi and other state resources are working with local responders on this fire.

Continues to burn actively moving east and is located south of Protection, KS. 

The Sedgwick Co Task Force is engaged on this fire along with KFS Assistant Fire Management Officer Dennis Carlson. 

Aviation and additional Kansas Task Forces will be available tomorrow to assist the local fire departments. 

Please check local social media outlets for evacuation notifications. 

Kansas Forest Service provides wildfire update

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management has staffed the State Emergency Operations Center with Emergency Support Function partners from the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Forest Service, Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Department of Transportation, and the National Weather Service in response to wildland fire threats across the state.

Blowing winds and possible wildfires are expected to continue this evening and into Wednesday. Motorists are advised to delay traveling as much as possible and to not drive into dust where visibility is restricted. Do not go into areas where active fires are being fought. Give emergency crews time and space to work.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is working alongside partner agencies in Southwest and Northwest Kansas to support wildfire response efforts through emergency response, evacuation assistance, traffic control, enforcement of safety closures, and securing affected areas. For emergencies, continue to dial *47(HP) while traveling on Kansas roadways, or *KTA (582) if traveling on the Kansas Turnpike."

The Kansas Department of Transportation closed portions of I-70 in northwest Kansas and U.S. 50 in southwest Kansas at times today that could continue tonight due to reduced visibility from blowing dust which has caused several crashes. &nbsp;Similar conditions and multiple crashes have also occurred in Colorado and Oklahoma and have closed highways. KDOT has sent water tenders to support fire suppression efforts in the Englewood and Ashland communities.

For the latest updates on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/">kandrive.gov</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal has sent an agent and the State Fire Marshal to Southwest Kansas to assist local responders. An agent will be sent to Northwest Kansas later today. Task Forces have been sent to different locations across the state. The Task Forces are from Johnson County, Sedgwick County, Dickinson County, Shawnee County and the Kansas National Guard.

Kansas Forest Service personnel are assisting with the wildfire outbreak in Kansas by providing subject-matter-expertise to local fire departments actively engaged in wildfire suppression operations which assist in determining priorities for limited resources statewide.

The Kansas National Guard has deployed a wildfire task force to western Kansas to help with fire suppression.

The American Red Cross is assisting counties impacted with mass care and human service’s needs.

Kansas Division of Emergency Management provides wildfire update

SEDGWICK COUNTY —&nbsp;Zachary Ramirez, 22, was sentenced on Tuesday for the July 2023 shooting deaths of two people in an Old Town parking garage in Wichita, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

During a hearing before Chief Judge Jeffrey Goering, Ramirez was sentenced to two consecutive "hard 25" life sentences. He also received 61 months with the Kansas Department of Corrections and six months in jail for additional counts, to be served concurrently with the life sentences.

In Kansas, a "hard 25" sentence is a mandatory life term that requires a defendant to serve a minimum of 25 years in prison before becoming eligible for parole. Because the court ordered the sentences to be served consecutively, Ramirez must serve at least 50 years before he is eligible for release.

The sentencing follows an April 2024 trial in which a Sedgwick County jury convicted Ramirez of several charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, two alternative counts of second-degree murder, criminal discharge of a weapon, aggravated battery, and two counts of battery. The case had been pending sentencing while the court considered the outcome of several post-trial motions.

The charges stem from an incident on July 27, 2023. At approximately 4 a.m., Wichita police responded to a parking garage in the 300 block of North Moore after a street sweeper operator discovered two victims inside a vehicle. Josephina Lerma-Dominguez, 20, and Bryan Lara-Hernandez, 21, both of Wichita, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators used surveillance footage and the FLOCK license plate reader system to identify and apprehend Ramirez shortly after the shooting.

The case was prosecuted by Chief Assistant District Attorney Jason Roach and Senior Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Jameson.

"We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Wichita Police Department for their thorough and diligent work on this investigation," the District Attorney’s Office said in a statement. "Their commitment to the case ensured that justice could be served for the victims and their families."

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A man convicted&nbsp; of killing two people in a parking garage in&nbsp;Old Town in Wichita is scheduled to learn his fate Tuesday.

&nbsp;Zachary Ramirez, 21, will appear at a sentencing hearing in Judge Jeffry Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In April of 2024, a jury found him guilty on two counts of first-degree murder, two alternative counts of second-degree murder, criminal discharge of a weapon, aggravated battery and two counts of battery in the deaths of 20-year-old Josephina Lerma-Dominguez and 21-year-old Bryan Lara-Hernandez both of Wichita, according to the district attorney's office.

Just before&nbsp; 4a.m. July 27, 2023, police responded to the 300 block of North Moore after a a street sweeper operator saw two gunshot victims in a vehicle in a parking garage in Wichita's Old Town and called 911, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

EMS&nbsp; arrived on the scene and attempted life-saving measures Lerma-Dominguez and Lara-Hernandez died at the scene.&nbsp;

Maximum sentence for killing Kansas couple in parking garage

CLARK COUNTY— The wild fire in southwest Kansas is contained but not out, according to Clark County Attorney Clay Kuhns. Approximately 150,000 acres have burned and the fire continues along the state line in Clark County.&nbsp; Two injured firefighter were transported to Wichita for treatment, according to Kuhns.

Earlier Wednesday, evacuation orders for residents in Englewood and Ashland were lifted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Tuesday night, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and his team traveled to Ashland to deliver water and thank first responders for their work protecting homes, ranches, and livestock.

2 firefighters injured fighting southwest Kansas wildfire 

SEWARD COUNTY —Liberal, Kansas, took the gold medal. Hannah McCarter secured victory in the 2026 International Pancake Day Race

&nbsp;McCarter crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 1:03.78, according to a media release from the International Pancake Day social media page.

This year’s competition was a trans-Atlantic showdown between Liberal, Kansas, and Olney, England. While Olney’s top runner finished with a strong time of 1:05, it wasn’t enough to catch McCarter, who led Liberal to another historic victory.

With this latest win, Liberal continues to dominate the long-standing international rivalry:

🎥Kansas wins 77th International Pancake Day race

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Senate overrode Gov Laura Kelly’s veto on Tuesday, putting the state one step closer to forcing people to use bathrooms in government buildings that match their biological sex at birth.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">Senate Substitute for House Bill 244</a>&nbsp;was overturned by the Senate, with votes falling along party lines.&nbsp;

As the vote was finalized in the Senate, Rabbi Moti Rieber shouted in anger from the gallery.&nbsp;

“First they came for the trans people, and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t trans,” he yelled.&nbsp;

Rieber was referring to a&nbsp;<a href="https://hmd.org.uk/resource/first-they-came-by-pastor-martin-niemoller/" target="_blank">well-known writing</a>&nbsp;by a German minister after the Holocaust.&nbsp;

As he was escorted out, Rieber continued to shout, telling the Senate, “Shame on you.”&nbsp;

Sen. Dinah Sykes, D-Lenexa, said the bill is the result of a “culture war” and does not serve Kansans well.&nbsp;

“Issues like this bill make us a less attractive place for businesses to relocate and start,” she said. “We are poised to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup in just over 100 days. The World Cup is supposed to bring millions of dollars to our region, and we should not be putting that economic impact at risk by playing political games in fighting culture wars.”

Sykes yielded to Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overand Park, taking away the chance for Republicans to “call the question,” a term that would stop debate and put the bill directly to a vote.&nbsp;

Someone from the Republican side of the Senate called the question after Sykes began talking, but Senate President Ty Masterson said she could continue.&nbsp;

Holscher challenged the Republican-led majority to show evidence that sexual assaults occur in bathrooms by trans people. She quoted various studies to back up her calculations that Kansans have a .00083% chance of being assaulted by a trans person in a restroom.&nbsp;

“You are eight times more likely to get struck by lightning,” Holscher said. “You’re 50 times more likely to die in a car crash, you’re 100 times more likely to be killed by gun violence, and you are 3,500 times more likely to be sexually assaulted by a man.”

Sens. Pat Pettey, D-Kansas City, and David Haley, D-Kansas City, both Democrats from Wyandotte County that will host the World Cup, said they are concerned about economic development impacts.&nbsp;

“This body continues to debate and pass legislation that places a heavy financial burden on our communities without providing them with additional resources,” Pettey said. “We are hosting the World Cup this summer. We are being put in a global spotlight. The Kansas Legislature should be focused on job creation, strengthening our workforce and attracting and retaining top talent. Where one goes to the bathroom does not grow our economy.”

Sen. Kellie Warren, R-Leawood, closed the short debate expressing concerns about children seeing someone of the opposite sex in the bathroom or locker room.&nbsp;

“That’s what this bill is about. It’s not about economic impact,” she said.

In a statement, Senate President Ty Masterson said the Senate “restored sanity” in overturning Kelly’s veto.&nbsp;

“Kansas Democrats are for They/Them,” he said.&nbsp;

After the veto was overturned, Rieber expressed his frustration at the danger he believes the bill creates for trans people. He referred to a section of the bill that requires all gender markers on driver’s licenses and birth certificates to match a person’s biological sex at birth.

“This bill is gratuitous. This bill is absolutely unnecessary,” he said. “Think about when you take out your driver’s license — at the liquor store, when you’re cashing a check, voting, if a cop pulls you over. You’re outing yourself every time somebody sees your driver’s license. It’s very dangerous for trans people to be outed, and we’re putting them at risk.”

Kansas Senate overrides governor’s veto of anti-trans ‘bathroom bill’

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of homicides over the past week in Kansas City, Missouri

Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the VA hospital in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

Upon officers arrival, they contacted several individuals who had stated the shooting occurred in the 2900 block of Brighton Avenue. The victim, later identified as 46-year-old Richard Ennis was transported by private conveyance to the VA hospital for medical treatment. VA hospital staff advised officers he was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary information provided by a witness stated that she was inside of her residence when she heard several sounds of shots outside of her home. She exited the residence and located Ennis lying in the street suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. An adult male suspect was seen entering an unknown vehicle and left the area in an unknown direction.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies were in the area of 28th and Southwest Boulevard working off duty for a nightclub/bar business there when they heard the sound of gunfire inside the bar, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

At the same time 911 received calls for a shooting inside the business.&nbsp;On arrival officers were led inside the business where they located 3 adult female shooting victims.&nbsp;

Officers began rendering aid and called for EMS to come in.&nbsp;EMS declared one shooting victim deceased at the scene. EMS&nbsp; then transported the other two victims to the hospital for treatment. At the hospital one of the two victims was declared deceased, and the other victim has what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries, according to Becchina.&nbsp; The women who died have been identified as 29-year-old Eboni Silas and 24-year-old Tishauna Ballard, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

While officers were at the scene they were notified of a 4th shooting victim, an adult male, who arrived at the hospital by private vehicle. That victim was reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates the victims were inside the business when there was an interaction with one or more suspects that escalated and led to shots being fired which struck the victims.&nbsp; Police have not released any details on a possible suspect.

Just after 5:30p.m. Feb 12, police were dispatched to 20th and Monroe on a sound of shots call in the area. 911 received multiple additional calls of sound of shots and eventually one call reporting a shooting victim down in a wooded area of a series of vacant lots in the 2000 block of Monroe.

On arrival officers made their way into the vacant lots and located a male shooting victim later identified as 25-year-old Terrion M. Johnson. unresponsive there. Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS responded and took over aid. They eventually declared the victim deceased here at the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary indication indicates the shooting occurred on 20th street between Askew and Monroe and Johnson ran to the south where he was located.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just after 8p.m. Feb. 11, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in 1500 block of E 59th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.&nbsp; The caller advised there was a person outside that appeared to be injured and needed help.&nbsp;

On arrival officers located a victim later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet in front of a residence there. Norfleet told officers he had been shot at a nearby location near an apartment complex in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road.

The victim was unable to provide any additional information regarding suspects.&nbsp;Officers called for EMS who transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Additional officers responded to the area described by the victim in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road and located evidence of a crime scene at that location.&nbsp;

Detectives and Crime Scene investigators began conducing investigation and processing the scene for evidence.&nbsp;Later in the evening detectives were notified from the hospital that&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet had died.

At 9:30p.m. Feb. 10, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of E. Armour Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri, on a sound of shots call, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

Multiple callers reported the sound of gunfire from behind an apartment building there. On arrival officers were directed to a parking lot in the back of an apartment building where they located a vehicle with shooting victims identified as 26-year-old Brittnee McMillon and and 28-year-old Jerrell Westmoreland.unresponsive inside.&nbsp;

Officers called for EMS who declared both victims deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives responded to the scene to conduct their investigation along with crime scene investigators processed the scene for available evidence.&nbsp; Police have not released details on possible suspects.

KCPD: 7 dead after violent week in Kansas City

THOMAS COUNTY —One person died in a multi-vehicle accident during a dust storm just after 1p.m. Tuesday in Thomas County

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo semi driven by Ihor Batiuk, 53, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately four miles west of the U.S. 83 exit in the right lane. the driver entered a blowing dust storm crossing the interstate from south to north. This storm caused little to zero visibility across the roadway. Due to the low visibility, the driver slowed his speed down.

A 2023 Toyota Highlander driven by Craig I. Goodman, 70, Ness City rear-ended the semi. After impact, the semi continued to the J&amp;J Truck Stop. The Toyota stopped in the right lane of travel.&nbsp; An eastsbound 2024 Freightliner semi driven by Dennis E. Graham, 65,&nbsp; Henryetta, Oklahoma, was behind the Toyota. The Freightliner's on-board forward crash detection sensor stopped the semi&nbsp; prior to impacting the vehicles in front involved in a separate collision and disabled in the roadway.

A eastbound 2014 Ford Explorer driven by Gary L&nbsp;Stoll, 75, Oakley, rear-ended the Freightliner. After impact the Explorer traveled to the left and stopped in the median facing south.

 The Freightliner's rear end protection was damaged in the crash. An eastbound 2026 Acura MDX driven by Bradley A. Stout, 65, Wichita, struck the rear of the Freightliner's trailer. The Acura under-rode the trailer.

An eastbound 2022 Subaru Ascent driven by William J.&nbsp;Burt, 66, Springdale, Arkansas, struck the Acura.

EMS transported Stoll to Citizen's Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. 

Batiuk, Goodman, a passenger in the Toyota and Graham were not injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stout and a passenger in the Acura Catherine W. Stout, 63, Wichita, were transported to Wesley Medical Center.

Two other passengers in the Acura Dennis J. Temaat, 71, and Joyce M. Temaat, 66, both of Dodge City were transported to Citizen's Medical Center.&nbsp; Bradley Stout was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies in chain-reaction I-70 crash in a dust storm

CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY —Due to a high number of student and staff illnesses across the district, USD 286 Sedan canceled classes for Wednesday, February 18, according to a statement from the school district social media page.

"This decision was made out of an abundance of caution to allow students and staff time to recover and to help prevent further spread of illness. During this time, our custodial team will complete a deep cleaning and sanitization of all district buildings."

All school activities and practices scheduled for this date are also canceled and&nbsp;The Chautauqua County Spelling Bee scheduled for Wednesday will not take place due to illness.

On February 4, Centre School District USD 397 announced they would not have class the rest of the week due to illness.

On Feb. 2, USD 511 Attica reported there would be no school or other activities for two days due to sickness.&nbsp;&nbsp;On January 14, Fairfield USD 310 canceled classes and participation in activities due to illness.

Another Kansas school district cancels classes due to illness

Late Monday at the direction of U.S. Southern Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted three deadly kinetic strikes on three vessels operated by 'Designated Terrorist Organizations', according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Eleven male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions, 4 on the first vessel in the Eastern Pacific, 4 on the second vessel in the Eastern Pacific, and 3 on the third vessel in the Caribbean. No U.S. military forces were harmed.&nbsp;

🎥 11 killed after three new U.S. strikes on drug boats

On Tuesday, Rolling Hills Zoo announce the birth of a male southern white rhinoceros calf on February 8, 2026. The calf and his mother, Evey, are doing well and bonding as animal care staff continue to monitor the pair from a respectful distance.

Evey, 19, and the calf’s father, Kengele, 27, were both previously part of a 15-member white rhino herd, known as a “crash,” at The Wilds Safari Park and Conservation Center in Cumberland, Ohio. Evey arrived at Rolling Hills Zoo in 2020, and Kengele joined the Zoo in 2024. White rhino gestation lasts approximately 16 to 18 months.

Evey and Kengele’s pairing was recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan? (SSP), a cooperative population management program designed to ensure the long-term sustainability and genetic health of species in accredited zoos. Rolling Hills Zoo is proud to be an AZA-accredited institution, the gold standard for zoos, and an active participant in this important conservation work.

At this time, the rhino barn is closed to public viewing. The Zoo asks for patience and understanding as Evey and her calf are given time to bond and adjust. Animal care staff are entering the building only as necessary, and the pair is being closely monitored via camera.

The southern white rhino is the second-largest land mammal after the elephant and represents one of conservation’s most remarkable comeback stories, having once been brought back from the brink of extinction. However, the species continues to face serious threats. A surge in poaching for rhino horn, particularly in South Africa, has led to record losses in recent years. As of 2025, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reported a 9.8% decrease in white rhino populations, bringing the global estimate to approximately 15,752 individuals in protected areas. The species is currently classified as Near Threatened.

“This birth is not only a joyful milestone for Rolling Hills Zoo, but also an important contribution to the conservation of this incredible species,” said Mark Echevarria, RHZ Curator. “Every calf born under AZA’s Species Survival Plan represents hope for the future of white rhinos and long-term sustainability of the animals within AZA facilities, while also maintaining their genetic diversity. Rolling Hills Zoo is very proud to be a part of and contributing to that mission.”

Rolling Hills Zoo will share updates, photos, and eventual public viewing information on its website and social media channels as the calf continues to grow and thrive.

Kansas zoo announces birth of Southern White Rhino

KANSAS CITY — A Kansas City man is facing multiple charges in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2809/Willingham-Lucas---Complaint-Packet-1">Lucas Willingham</a>, 44, is charged with 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2810/Willingham---Statement-of-Probable-Cause_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police responded to a reported shooting on Feb. 11. When officers contacted the victim, he advised officers he had been shot by Willingham outside the apartment building. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he was later confirmed deceased.&nbsp;

Detectives located a spent shell casing inside the defendant’s apartment, which matched the shell casings found at the crime scene outside the apartment building.&nbsp;

Video footage from the incident captured the victim running through the apartment complex and Willingham following the victim. Willingham can be seen raising a firearm and firing it in the direction of the victim.&nbsp;

Willingham turned himself in to police on Feb. 12. During an interview with detectives, he said he was under the influence of PCP around the time of the shooting and did not know what happened and couldn’t comprehend what was going on.&nbsp;

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