One generation helping another. Arena Cheyenne-Orosco, a sixth grader at Ellinwood Grade School, is the latest winner in Eagle Media's Make a Difference Contest, presented by OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing. Arena received $100 as a weekly winner in the contest.

"I can make a difference by going and helping my mom at the nursing home," Arena said.

All Barton County students, grades K-6, are eligible for the Make a Difference Contest, which will run for the duration of the 2025-26 school year. As a weekly winner, Arena and her teacher, Mr. Stint, are now eligible for the monthly prize. That lucky student will win another $100 and a book bag filled with goodies from other contest sponsors, and her teacher will also receive $100.

The Make a Difference contest, presented by OPI &amp; Golden Belt Printing, is sponsored in part by Big Ben Custom Engraving, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Redi Mix, Francis Financial, Medical Park Pharmacy, R&amp;R Roofing, Allstaff Chartered, Miller Plastics, Rosencrantz Bemis Water Well Service, Great Bend Rec, Jimlo Glass Center, Haz Mat Response, &amp; Scooter's Coffee.

Ellinwood's Cheyenne-Orosco the latest winner in Eagle Media's Make a Difference Contest

By ELLE HUTCHINSON Barton County Media Consultant

During Tuesday's Barton County Commission meeting, Sheriff Brian Bellendir shared a meaningful piece of local history and a personal goal that reflects the County’s deep roots and longstanding traditions of service.

Bellendir spoke about George Moses, the first sheriff of Barton County. Moses was appointed to the position in the early days of the county’s formation, during a time when railroads were pushing west and communities across Kansas were just beginning to take shape. Before serving as sheriff, Moses worked as a guide along the expanding rail lines and later became involved with the town company that helped establish the city of Great Bend.

The Moses family played an important role in Barton County’s early development, contributing to local industry and community life. Sheriff Moses himself was also a Civil War veteran, carrying with him the experiences and responsibilities of a nation in transition into the challenges of building a new community on the frontier.

As part of preserving that legacy, Bellendir shared that he is working to bring Sheriff Moses’s original Colt revolver back to Barton County to place it on public display in the courthouse so residents and visitors can experience this piece of local history firsthand.

Bellendir noted that artifacts connected to Sheriff Moses and his service represent more than individual history—they tell the story of Barton County’s earliest days, its leadership, and the people who helped lay its foundation. Preserving those pieces of history helps connect current residents to the generations who came before them.

As he reflected on his time in office, Bellendir shared that honoring the legacy of those who served before him is an important part of Barton County’s story and something he hopes future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate.

The discussion served as a reminder that Barton County’s history is not only found in books and records, but also in the people, stories, and legacies that continue to shape the community today.

Preserving Barton County history: Remembering the legacy of Sheriff George Moses

The Russell Community Impact Award Committee is pleased to announce Dannie’ll as the distinguished recipient of the January 2026 Russell Community Impact Award. This award recognizes individuals, businesses, or organizations whose exceptional contributions have significantly enriched the fabric of the Russell community.

Dannie'll brings the Russell community together every year for the Community Thanksgiving Dinner. She leads and organizes this event and has turned it into the success it is today, last year feeding nearly 1,000 members of our community. Her dedication is unmatched. The amount of time she gives to planning and executing this event demonstrates her selflessness and dedication to service. Because of this event, many in our community are provided an opportunity for fellowship and engagement that they may not otherwise experience on the holiday. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Dannie'll's nomination describes that she does all of this with nothing to gain; the only payment she receives for her time and dedication is a thank you or a smile, showing her great sense of community and giving spirit. &nbsp;The altruistic nature of Dannie'll makes her a perfect candidate for this award. Thank you, Dannie'll, for your contributions to our community! &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

As the winner of the Russell Community Impact Award, Dannie’ll received a $250 donation to the non-profit of her choice. Dannie’ll chose the Russell Community Thanksgiving Dinner as the recipient. Mayor Jim Cross and KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio Manager Mike McKenna presented Dannie’ll with a $250 check at the February 17, 2026, city council meeting.&nbsp;

If you know of someone like Dannie’ll who is making a positive impact on Russell, you can nominate them for the Russell Community Impact Awards. By participating in this initiative, you play a vital role in recognizing and honoring those who contribute to the community's growth and well-being.

Nominations for the Russell Community Impact Awards can be submitted online at www.russellcity.org or downloaded from www.russellcity.org or www.krsl.com. Additionally, nomination forms are available for pickup at the City Building, 133 W. 8th Street, or KRSL/KZRS Russell Radio, 1984 N. Main Street.&nbsp;

Let's come together to celebrate individuals like Dannie’ll who embody the spirit of Russell and make our community a better place for all.

For more information about the Russell Community Impact Awards, please get in touch with Kayla at 785.483.6311. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Heaton selected as the Russell Community Impact Award winner for January 

On Feb. 19, shortly after 10 a.m., officers from the Great Bend Police Department responded to a residence in the 300 block of Frey St., Great Bend, in reference to an ongoing investigation involving drug trafficking. 

Upon arrival, officers apprehended Erasmo Ortiz-Chavez, 70, inside the residence. During a search of the residence, officers located quantities of cocaine consistent with distribution, firearms, and drug paraphernalia. Ortiz- Chavez was transported and booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of Distribution of Cocaine, Criminal use of Weapons, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp, in lieu of bail.

Anyone with information regarding this or any other case is encouraged to contact the Great Bend Police Department at 620-793-4120 or the Barton County Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300 or online at p3tips.com.

Great Bend police make arrest related to drug distribution

By MIKE COURSON
 Great Bend Post

Progress continues on the construction of a new hotel and
restaurant on 10th Street in Great Bend. Tuesday night, the Great
Bend City Council approved a final plat for property located at 3017 10th
Street, adjacent to the Events Center. City Administrator Logan Burns said the
initial public hearing before the planning commission was held on Jan. 26.

“At that meeting, the planning commission heard from
representatives of the ownership group regarding proposed site improvements,
and reviewed discussion related to the drainage study for the property,” Burns
said. “Following the public hearing, the planning commission voted to recommend
approval of the final plat to the city council.”

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/3a69fab1-e961-4dc1-9089-c4f6b170182e">READ MORE: New Great Bend hotel expected to open in 2027</a>

Proposed improvements include relocation of the existing sanitary
sewer line further south on the property and extending it east to create a
larger developable plot for a restaurant, with a hotel located toward the rear
of the site. Darrin Hall, land surveyor with EBH &amp; Associates, detailed the
plans further.

“I can tell you the land use does not change, the zoning
does not change,” he said. “The storm water runoff will actually decrease
because there will be more green space than there was prior to this
development.”

Hall did not elaborate further on the plans. The council
approved a $60,000 letter of credit from the ownership group to ensure the
installation of a new sanitary sewer line and removal of the old line in a
timely manner.

Great Bend Council approves final plat for development next to Events Center

Barton Community College is one of six community colleges statewide selected to participate in a new initiative preparing Kansans for high-demand careers in cybersecurity through a partnership between Kansas community colleges and the Kansas National Guard, announced by U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall.&nbsp;

The initiative reflects a growing focus on developing skilled professionals to meet critical cybersecurity needs across industry, government, and national defense. Marshall emphasized the importance of expanding cybersecurity talent pipelines, noting that Kansas community colleges, combined with the Guard’s technical expertise, provide a strong foundation for workforce development.&nbsp;

“Kansas is ready to lead the nation in cybersecurity, and this partnership makes it possible,” he said. “By connecting our community colleges with the Kansas National Guard, we are creating real pathways for Kansans to gain the skills our state and country need while building careers in one of the fastest-growing and most critical fields in America.”

Representatives from participating institutions, including Barton, joined Guard leadership and state partners for a formal memorandum of understanding signing Feb. 11 at the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka. The agreement marks a shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities and workforce pathways in cybersecurity.

Through the partnership, community colleges will collaborate with the Kansas National Guard’s 184th Intelligence Wing to expand and adapt cybersecurity curriculum, develop stackable credentials and competency-based learning pathways, and broaden access to training opportunities for learners across the state.

Barton’s participation in the statewide collaboration underscores the College’s commitment to student success and regional economic growth. As demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to increase nationwide, initiatives like this help ensure Kansans have access to industry-relevant training and credentialing opportunities.

At Barton, the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to support workforce-driven education and respond to employer demand throughout central and western Kansas. Under the leadership of Barton President Marcus Garstecki, the college has continued to strengthen strategic partnerships and innovative programming that connect students with in-demand technical skills.

“Partnerships like this allow us to provide students with relevant training and clear pathways to career opportunities in cybersecurity,” he said. “By aligning educational programming with evolving industry needs and state partners, Barton is helping prepare the next generation of professionals for success in this critical field.”

The full text of the proclamation is available online.

BCC joins statewide partnership to strengthen cybersecurity workforce

Released Stevenson, Laura J. on Great Bend Municipal Court warrant #202401080 for Contempt of Court; Indirect after being granted a $602.50 O.R. bond through Great Bend Municipal Court.

Booked Thomasson, Harley Ray on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2025CR0307 for return for court.

Released Bentley, Jeramiah J. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0007 for Violation of the Kansas Offender Registration Act after being granted a $40,000.00 O.R. bond through the Barton County District Court.

Released Boyer, Jordan T. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2026CR0020 for Vehicular Burglary after being granted a $50,000.00 O.R. bond through the Barton County District Court.

Released Tisdale, Joshua L. on Barton County District Court warrant #8T2025CR0503 for Aggravated Battery, and Aggravated Domestic battery after being granted a $75,000.00 O.R. bond through the Barton County District Court.

Released Clampit, Mathew W. on a Barton County District Court warrant #BT2025CR0345 for Contempt of Court; Indirect after posting a $1,000.00 surety bond through Ace Bail Bonds.

Booked Manning, Justice A. on Barton County District Court warrant #BT2024TR0180 for Failure to Appear; bond set at $1,100.00 cash only.

Booked in Ortiz-Chavez, Erasmo on Barton County District Court case #26-248 for Distribution of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal use of Weapon and No Drug Tax Stamp. Bond set at $50,000.00 cash or surety.

Booked Marley, Derek S. on Barton County District Court case #26-162 for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving While Suspended. Bond set at $10,000.00 cash or Surety.

Barton County Sheriff's Office Booking activity (2/19)

A World War II bomber base with concrete runways, open
skies, and lots of wind. That’s how the Sunflower Rod and Custom Association
(SRCA) Dragstrip west of Great Bend was described in a promotional video during
the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) West Central Div. 5 High &amp; Mighty
Hall of Fame Induction ceremony on Jan. 24 in Kansas City.

Tuesday night, the Great Bend City Council recognized the
SCRA’s recent induction. The SRCA was formed on Jan. 19, 1954, as a club named
for its home state and driven by volunteers, hot rods, and a belief in the new
sport of drag racing.

“A year later, they made a decision that would change the
sport of drag racing forever,” the narrator said. “Working through the Great
Bend Chamber of Commerce, the club reached out to a man named Wally Parks with
a simple but bold invitation: come to Kansas, bring the NHRA with you, and let
Great Bend host the first NHRA National Championship Drag Races. Wally Parks
said yes, and the rest is drag racing history.”

The first Nationals featured more than 200 cars and 15,000
spectators. A new speed record for American drag racing was set at 151 miles
per hour. 

“Those races, on that former bomber strip, established the
first official NHRA acceleration records from a standing start over 1,320 feet,”
the video said. “So Sunflower Custom and Rod Association didn’t just hold a
race, they helped define what a national event was, and what it would be.”

Over the next several decades, SRCA continued to carry the
torch for drag racing in Central Kansas with a museum, and by hosting events
like Hot Rod Magazine Drag Week and Rocky Mountain Race Week. The SRCA
ultimately disbanded before reforming in 1993. Most recently, the club survived
a shutdown of the track, which is currently being rebuilt with plans to reopen
for the 2026 race season.

“Tonight,” said the narrator, “we honor the club that turned
a bomber base into a dragstrip, a dusty runway into a national stage, and a
local club into a cornerstone of NHRA history.”

SRCA inducted into NHRA's Div. 5 High & Mighty Hall of Fame

The Clara Barton Hospital Foundation is currently seeking applicants for its 2026 healthcare career scholarships. Each year, the foundation awards several scholarships to students pursuing a career in the healthcare field. Scholarship amounts vary depending on the merits of the application and funds available from the endowments. The four scholarships to be awarded this year are the Jonathan Witt Scholarship, the Sadie Stalcup Scholarship, the Verda Lane Nursing Scholarship, and the Dr. Robert Moore Scholarship. The application deadline for all scholarships is April 1, 2026.

Both the Jonathan Witt and Sadie Stalcup scholarships are limited to applicants accepted into, currently enrolled in, or planning to pursue a healthcare career. Applicants must be current residents or high school graduates in the Clara Barton service area.

The Verda Lane Nursing Scholarship was established at the request of her family to assist students in their academic pursuit to become an LPN, RN, or BSN. Applicants must be admitted to a nursing program and have a current GPA of 3.0 or higher. The scholarship cannot be awarded to pre-nursing students.

Established by his family in honor of his dedicated service to the patients of Clara Barton Medical Center, the Dr. Robert Moore Scholarship assists employees of Clara Barton in continuing their education. Only current employees are eligible, and if interested, can call the foundation office to learn more about this scholarship. This specific scholarship application will be accepted year-round until funds are distributed.

Last year’s scholarship recipients were Bryce Steffan, Chandra Ehler, Emilee Hall, Erin Babcock, Khloe Schneweis, Liza Fuentes (Ward), Madelynn Gregg, Morgan Beckwith, Shaylee Leiker, and Jennah Hoopingarner. This year’s scholarship recipients will be awarded by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. Individuals interested in contributing to a scholarship fund or who wish to receive an application may call 620-292-0184, email foundation@cbhks.com, or write to Clara Barton Foundation, P.O. Box 25, Hoisington, KS 67544. All applications are also available under the foundation tab at clarabartonhospital.com.

Clara Barton Hospital Foundation seeking applicants for 2026 healthcare scholarships

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

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

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

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

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

KDHE monitoring air quality after recent wildland fires across Kansas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now is the time to recognize those who go above and beyond! You can nominate a School Hero! On the fourth Tuesday of each month, Eagle Media will select a Hero to recognize! The winner will also receive $500! Nominate a School Hero is presented by: <a href="https://opikan.com/">OPI</a> (Office Products Incorporated) &amp; Golden Belt Printing.&nbsp;

Any adult who works at a school in Barton County is eligible to be nominated. Admin, Teachers, Para's, Coaches, Maintenance, Cafeteria, etc.

Nominate a School Hero! Presented by: OPI & Golden Belt Printing

Big Bend Custom Engraving, Freedom Claims Management, Great Bend Redi Mix, Francis Financial, Medial Park Pharmacy, R&amp;R Roofing, Allstaff Chartered, Miller Plastics, Rosencrants Bemis Water Well Service, Great Bend Rec, Jimlo Glass Center, Haz Mat Response

Make a Difference Contest 

Jayhawk Conference Men's Standings Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp;ALL Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-6&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;19-8 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-7&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;20-8 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 17-10 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-9 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-10 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-10 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;12-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;17-10 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-9&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-13 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-10&nbsp; &nbsp; 16-11 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9-12&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;14-13 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;8-14&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-15 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 4-18&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7-20 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-18&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;5-22 Saturday, February 21 Barton 92, Independence 91 Butler 106, Cowley 94 Cloud County 81, Fort Hays Tech 60 Pratt 74, Colby 60 Hutchinson 74, Coffeyville 68 Garden City 107, Dodge City 102 Wednesday, February 25 Seward County @ Barton Cowley @ Independence Fort Hays Tech @ Colby Pratt @ Coffeyville Butler @ Dodge City Garden City @ Cloud County Saturday, February 28 Independence @ Dodge City Garden City @ Colby Coffeyville @ Fort Hays Tech Pratt @ Hutchinson Cloud County @ Butler Cowley @ Seward County Monday, March 2 Coffeyville @ Garden City Wednesday, March 4 Barton @ Cowley Cloud County @ Independence Colby @ Butler Dodge City @ Seward County Hutchinson @ Fort Hays Tech END OF REGULAR SEASON &nbsp;

Jayhawk Men's Standings, Scores, Schedule

By DR. KARISSA NIEHOFF NFHS

Surveys in the past have indicated that the No. 1 reason high school students participate in sports is to have fun competing with their peers.

Fast forward from those surveys of yesteryear to today, the question now is, are they really having fun? While we hope the answer is “yes” for the majority of student-athletes, we know that some are mired in the “High School Grind” – that never-ending packed schedule of academics, practices, high expectations, pressures from parents and others to succeed – all of which is constantly surrounded by the noise of social media.

In addition, many high school student-athletes are competing on out-of-school club teams year-round, which has added to the mental strain and intensified the pressure to succeed. And, in many cases, that push to succeed is starting way before high school.&nbsp;

With the pressures facing today’s student-athletes, resiliency and mental awareness are key factors in handling that daily grind and finding the fun of high school education-based sports.&nbsp;

Fun is about the opportunity to be a part of a team, to work together with others and learn how to handle the ups and downs of life. Fun is about growing and learning and improving and gaining confidence.

When that pressure from others to win and succeed overtakes the fun and enjoyment of playing sports, the grind can become larger than life and mental health is compromised.

Because of the importance of the mental wellness of high school student-athletes and coaches, the NFHS devoted its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tools.nfhs.org/uploadedfiles/3dIssue/HSToday/2026issues/february2026/index.html">February issue</a>&nbsp;of High School Today to this important subject.

In the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nfhs.org/stories/mental-growth-in-high-school-athletics-being-intentional">“Mental Growth in High School Athletics: Being Intentional”</a>&nbsp;article, Tom Horner said that when athletes learn to train mind, body and sport, they grow not just as competitors, but as people.

“The pressures facing today’s athletes are different than even a decade ago,” Horner said. “Social media, comparison, academic expectations, lack of sleep, youth burnout, constant stimulation, and the fear of “not being enough” are real. Sports are often the one place they want to feel grounded, connected and confident, and kids are counting on us (coaches, teachers, administrators) to help them get there.”

In the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nfhs.org/stories/helping-athletes-manage-pressure-protect-their-mental-health">“Helping Athletes Manage Pressure, Protect Their Mental Health”</a>&nbsp;article, Missy Townsend noted that supporting the mental well-being of student-athletes starts with intentional leadership from athletic administrators.

“When you teach young people how to manage pressure, face adversity and support one another, you are not just building better athletes, you are building stronger human beings,” Townsend said. “The scoreboard will always matter, but the greater score is measured in how our student-athletes grow – how they handle a loss, how they lift each other up, and how they carry the lessons of sport into every aspect of their lives.”

In the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nfhs.org/stories/empowering-high-school-students-to-self-advocate">“Empowering High School Students to Self-Advocate”</a>&nbsp;article, Dr. Steve Amaro said the student voice is powerful, and student participants can be divisive if proper direction isn’t provided. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Athletic and activity programs are great ways to support student learning and test student limits,” Amaro said. “When students are given time to practice how to appropriately communicate their messages, they are more likely to become positive contributors and better understand how their voice can affect both team and individual performance. Schools and programs that develop ways to promote student self-advocacy empower students to realize their voice can drive improvement and help everyone achieve their goals.”

In Dr. Jennifer Wider’s article on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nfhs.org/stories/weight-of-the-jersey-why-mental-health-is-vital-in-high-school-sports">“Why Mental Health is Vital in High School Sports”</a>&nbsp;article, VJ Sarullo, athletic director of Staples High School in Westport, Connecticut, stated the following:

“Student-athletes are balancing academics, practices, competitions, social expectations and high personal standards. While sports can be a powerful outlet and source of connection, they can also magnify stress if well-being is not prioritized. We take a collaborative and proactive approach to support student-athlete mental health. The athletic department and its staff work closely with school counselors, teachers and administrators to ensure that student-athletes know support is available and accessible."

In the sports medicine article titled&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nfhs.org/stories/sport-specialization-and-youth-athletes-considering-mental-health-well-being">“Sport Specialization and Youth Athletes</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.nfhs.org/stories/sport-specialization-and-youth-athletes-considering-mental-health-well-being">:&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.nfhs.org/stories/sport-specialization-and-youth-athletes-considering-mental-health-well-being">Considering Mental Health, Well-Being,</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.nfhs.org/stories/sport-specialization-and-youth-athletes-considering-mental-health-well-being">”</a>&nbsp;Dr.Brandonn Harris noted several concerns about early sport specialization that could affect the mental health of student-athletes:

“In terms of overall mental health and well-being, we know that early sport specialization can place young athletes at risk for burnout, injury, decreased mood, anxiety, less enjoyment, and lower self-esteem, all of which certainly have the capacity to impact their mental health and wellness. Further, evidence has suggested that early sport specialization before the ages of 13-15 does not appear to increase the likelihood for future athletic success. It appears that the opposite may in fact be true.”

We encourage schools to take advantage of these resources as well as courses on the NFHS Learning Center (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfhslearn.com/">www.NFHSLearn.com</a>) to address the mental wellness of student-athletes and help them to continue finding the fun of high school sports.

Finding the Fun of High School Sports Through the Daily Grind

Jayhawk Conference Women's Standings Team&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; CONF&nbsp; &nbsp; ALL Butler&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 20-1&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 26-1 Dodge City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-3&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 23-3 Hutchinson&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-4&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 23-5 Coffeyville&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;13-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;19-8 Seward County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-8&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-9 Colby&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11-10&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 14-13 Barton&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 11-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-15 Garden City&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10-11&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 15-11 Cowley&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 9-12&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 13-14 Cloud County&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 8-13&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 12-14 Pratt&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;3-19&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7-20 Fort Hays Tech&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-19&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2-25 Independence&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;2-19&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5-22 Saturday, February 21 Barton 74, Independence 40 Butler 73, Cowley 47 Cloud County 69, Fort Hays Tech 52 Pratt 63, Colby 60 Hutchinson 82, Coffeyville 69 Dodge City 85, Garden City 68 Wednesday, February 25 Seward County @ Barton Cowley @ Independence Fort Hays Tech @ Colby Pratt @ Coffeyville Butler @ Dodge City Garden City @ Cloud County Saturday, February 28 Independence @ Dodge City Garden City @ Colby Coffeyville @ Fort Hays Tech Pratt @ Hutch Cloud County @ Butler Cowley @ Seward County Monday, March 2 Coffeyville @ Garden City Wednesday, March 4 Barton @ Cowley Cloud County @ Independence Colby @ Butler Dodge City @ Seward County Hutchinson @ Fort Hays Tech END OF REGULAR SEASON &nbsp;

Jayhawk Women's Standings, Scores, Schedule

The 20th ranked Barton Community College men's basketball team relied on a late defensive stand Saturday afternoon inside the Fleske Fieldhouse, holding off Independence Community College 92-91.

After an early back-and-forth stretch, the Cougars created separation midway through the first half with a balanced scoring burst, building the margin to double digits before carrying a 48-38 lead into the locker room.

A whistle-heavy second half, featuring 58 combined free throw attempts, turned the final 20 minutes into a grind as Barton's double-digit lead quickly disappeared. Independence surged ahead early before the Cougars answered with an 8-0 run to regain control. The Pirates later tied the game at 91-91 with 36 seconds remaining, but&nbsp;Jayden Ramirez&nbsp;split a pair at the line with 21 seconds left, and Barton's forced contested corner three drew short to seal the one-point win.

The win pushes Barton's streak and salvages the season series split with Independence. The Cougars now sit alone in second place in the Jayhawk at 15-7 and 20-8 overall, holding a one game edge over third, while the Pirates drop to 12-9 in league play and 14-13 overall.

Barton closes out its two-game homestand Wednesday night in its regular season home finale on Sophomore Night, hosting Seward County Community College at 7:30 p.m. inside the Fleske Fieldhouse. The contest also marks the return of former Cougar assistant coach Austin Downing, now leading the Saints.

Noah Williams&nbsp;led a five-pack in double figures with 23 points and nine rebounds, going 10-of-11 at the free throw line.&nbsp;Brian Sullivan, Jr.&nbsp;poured in a career-high 22 points on 8-of-17 shooting, adding six rebounds in 28 minutes while helping the Cougars to a plus-29 bench advantage. Ramirez added 12 points, converting 8-of-10 at the stripe, including the go-ahead free throw with 21 seconds remaining.&nbsp;Sebastian Muchitsch&nbsp;chipped in 12 points and five rebounds, while&nbsp;Aris Rodriguez&nbsp;rounded out the double-figure scoring with 10 points and four rebounds in just 16 minutes of action.

Barton shot 47.5 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from beyond the arch while converting 33-of-39 at the free throw line. Despite being outrebounded 42-34, the Cougars controlled the paint 48-28 and forced 17 Pirate turnovers, turning those into a 22-10 advantage in points off miscues.

Independence shot 40.3 percent from the field and 22.2 percent (6-of-27) from three-point range while converting 31-of-37 at the free throw line. Trae Lewis led the Pirates with a game-high 30 points, while David Wilson added 21. Lonnie Bass Jr. recorded 18 points and a game high 18 rebounds, helping fuel Independence's plus-eight advantage on the glass.

No. 20 Cougars hold off Independence late 92-91 for eighth straight win

The Barton Community College women's basketball team used four decisive scoring runs and extended defensive lockdown stretches Saturday afternoon inside Fleske Fieldhouse to roll past Independence Community College, 74-40.

After surrendering the game's opening basket, the Cougars responded with the next 13 points and never trailed again. Barton later added a 12-0 surge spanning the first and second quarters to build a commanding 40-19 halftime advantage.

The defensive tone only intensified after the break. The Cougars pushed a 42-21 edge into a 52-22 cushion midway through the third quarter before delivering a 14-2 burst in the fourth to stretch the margin beyond 30. Independence endured scoreless stretches of approximately five minutes in the first quarter, six in the second, five more in the third, and four in the fourth, going nearly half the contest without a point. Barton's largest lead of 37 came in the final minute.

The victory moves the Cougars to 12-12 in Jayhawk Conference play and 13-15 overall, while Independence drops to 2-19 in league action and 5-22 on the season. Barton remains home Wednesday for a 5:30 p.m. tip against Seward County Community College, with sophomore recognition scheduled following the final regular-season home contest. The Cougars close out the regular season a week later on the road at Cowley College.

Regina Donanu&nbsp;led all scorers with 22 points, adding five rebounds, four assists, and two steals.&nbsp;Mary Akinde&nbsp;recorded her 11th double-double of the season with 18 points, 16 rebounds, and three blocks, while&nbsp;Christal Long&nbsp;notched her second double-double of the year with 15 points and 12 rebounds, also tying her career high with six steals.

Independence was paced by Nyah Chandler's seven points. Jade Oliney added seven points and nine rebounds, while Danaiya Stillwell-Smith contributed six points, a team-high 10 rebounds, and four steals.

Barton women jump out early to roll up Independence 74-40

Forty points in a high school basketball game is a rare feat. Friday night in Dodge City, Great Bend High School senior Jacob Hall went past 40 points. An unofficial total of 43 points announced after Friday's win would have set a new GBHS single-game record for most points in a game. Upon further review, Hall officially finished with 42 points in the game.

That effort still ties the school's single-game scoring record, set by Anthony Guliford in the 1990-1991 season.

Update: GBHS senior Hall's record-setting night corrected to 42 points, not 43

LIVIGNO, Italy (AP) — Eileen Gu defended her Olympic ski halfpipe title to make it six medals in six events over her Winter Games career. The 22-year-old Gu, American-born but competing for her mother’s homeland of China, is already the most decorated freeskier in the short history of the sport at the Olympics. Gu won the event on the strength of her second run, a clean, technically sound pass. She got even better in her final run and finished with a score of 94.75. Her teammate, Li Fanghui, took silver and Zoe Atkin of Britain was third. The event was rescheduled to Sunday following a big snowstorm Saturday.

MILAN (AP) — No miracle needed. The United States is atop the hockey world for the first time in nearly a half-century. Jack Hughes scored the winning goal in overtime, and the U.S. defeated Canada 2-1 in the gold medal final at the Milan Cortina Olympics on Sunday, flipping the script on the international stage and claiming the country’s third men’s title at the Games and the first since the “Miracle on Ice” on 1980.

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (AP) — Authorities say Rondale Moore, an NFL receiver who had season-ending training camp knee injuries in each of the last two years after a standout college career at Purdue and a promising start with the Arizona Cardinals, has been found dead. He was 25. Police said Moore died of a suspected self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police chief Todd Bailey said Moore was found dead in the garage of a property in his hometown of New Albany on Saturday. The death remains under investigation. Floyd County Coroner Matthew Tomlin also confirmed Moore’s death. He said an autopsy would be conducted Sunday. Moore signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2025.

NEW YORK (AP) — The WNBA sent a counterproposal to its players’ union for a new collective bargaining agreement that included continuing to pay for all player housing this season, but not really changing its previous offer of revenue sharing. A person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press about Friday's development. The person spoke on condition of anonymity on Saturday because of the sensitive nature of negotiations. In the league’s new proposal, the teams would pay for all housing this season. Then teams would pay for housing for players on minimum salary contracts as well as rookies in their first season.

WASHINGTON (AP) — No. 3 Duke has made a statement by outhustling and outplaying top-ranked Michigan. The Blue Devils ended the Wolverines' 11-game losing streak with a 68-63 win on Saturday night before a riveted crowd at Capital One Arena in Washington. Freshman star Cameron Boozer and the Blue Devils could return to the nation's capital five weeks from now to play in the East Regional of the NCAA Tournament. Duke was projected earlier Saturday as the No. 1 seed in the East. Coach Jon Scheyer says he's thankful his team got to play in a “tournament environment.”

MILAN (AP) — Management and coaches for the U.S. and Canada put hours into constructing 25-man rosters for the Winter Olympics that gave them the best opportunity to leave with gold. For the Americans, a victory in the final Sunday would validate the decision to bring back nearly the identical roster that fell one goal short against Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off a year ago and leave some dynamic players at home. Canada also did that, particularly sticking with starting goaltender Jordan Binnington.

Michigan is the No. 1 overall seed in the preliminary rankings by the committee that will select the 68-team men's field for the NCAA Tournament. The Wolverines were joined by Duke, Arizona and Iowa State as the 1-seeds in Saturday's reveal show on CBS. The Cyclones got the last No. 1 seed ahead of UConn and Houston. Saturday’s reveal is a snapshot of where things stand with less than a month left until Selection Sunday. Generally the teams listed above the cutline for a top-four regional seed stay there. Selection Sunday is March 15. The Final Four is in Indianapolis.

CHONBURI, Thailand (AP) — Jeeno Thitikul wins the LPGA Thailand by one shot and earns her first victory at her home event. On Sunday, the world No. 1 closed with a 4-under 68. She finishes at 24-under for her eighth LPGA title. Thitikul says winning at home means even more than a major for her. Japan’s Chizzy Iwai pushes hard and finishes second at 23-under. Kim Hyo-joo places third. Defending champion Angel Yin of the United States shot 70 and was in a tie for 48th. The event opens the LPGA’s three-week Asia swing.

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge hit two homers in his spring debut as he prepares for the World Baseball Classic next month. The three-time Most Valuable Player hit a pair of two-run shots, one in the third inning and another in the fourth. He finished the day 2-for-3 with four RBIs. The 33-year-old has won the MVP in three of the past four seasons, including last year when he hit .331 with 53 homers and 114 RBIs. Judge will be part of what looks like a loaded Team USA lineup in the WBC. The position player group also includes Bryce Harper, Gunnar Henderson, Bobby Witt Jr., Cal Raleigh and Kyle Schwarber.

CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — Women are powering Team USA’s medal surge at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, and they are setting records along the way. Through Saturday, the next to last day of these Games, they stand at six gold medals and 17 medals in women’s events. That tops past U.S. Winter Games marks. When mixed events are included, the total climbs to 21 medals. More than 40 American women are leaving Italy with at least one medal. Gold moments include women’s hockey over Canada, wins in Alpine skiing, monobob, figure skating, and freestyle moguls. Athletes say the success keeps feeding the next wave.

Final	(13)Texas Tech	100	Kansas State	72	

Sunday Sports Headlines and Scores presented by Barton Community College

MILAN (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/milan-cortina-winter-olympics-hockey-closing-ceremony-updates">The United States is on top</a>&nbsp;of the hockey world for the first time in nearly a half-century. No miracle needed.

Jack Hughes scored in overtime and the U.S. beat Canada 2-1 in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-canada-gold-medal-game-olympics-c901edacf7f6ccca94b5f19f1d27f479">the gold medal final</a>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="https://___%20ap%20winter%20olympics:%20https//apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics">the Milan Cortina Olympics</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, earning the nation’s third men’s title at the Games and its first since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1980-miracle-on-ice-hockey-c64ae6cbf5c4b41f71d9a78782409780">“Miracle on Ice”</a>&nbsp;in 1980 — 46 years to the day of the upset over the mighty Soviet Union, too.

Unlike that ragtag group of college kids that pulled off one of the biggest shockers in sports history, the Americans in Milan were a machine that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/connor-hellebuyck-team-usa-goalie-443ee4a3f28807aa7c4028ed489ecbd4">rode goaltender Connor Hellebuyck</a>&nbsp;and a roster full of NHL players through the tournament unbeaten. Still, they were underdogs again against the stacked Canadians and came out on top — again.

“This is all about our country right now,” said Hughes, who lost at least one and maybe two of his front teeth taking a high stick during the game. “I love the U.S.A. I love my teammates. It’s unbelievable. The USA Hockey brotherhood is so strong.”

Hughes' goal off the rush off a pass from Zach Werenski 1:41 into 3-on-3 OT sent players into a wild celebration as Canada's entire team watched from the bench. There was a hint of sadness amid all the joy as Werenski and Matthew Tkachuk carried a Johnny Gaudreau No. 13 jersey around the ice as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/johnny-gaudreau-olympics-team-usa-43c05ba80d4c3f51c4a4b94285c63038">the latest tribute</a>&nbsp;to the beloved player who was killed along with his brother in 2024.

Gaudreau's parents, Guy and Jay, his widow, Meredith, and their oldest children were in attendance. It was John Jr.'s second birthday and he was brought on the ice with older sister Noa for the team photo.

“He was so near and dear to us,” Brady Tkachuk said of the player known as “Johnny Hockey." “We did it for him.”

Hellebuyck was by far the best player on the ice, stopping 41 of the 42 shots he faced as Canada tilted the ice toward him. He made the save of the tournament by getting his stick on the puck on a shot from Devon Toews in the third period, then minutes later denied Macklin Celebrini on a breakaway — something he also did to Connor McDavid earlier.

"Unbelievable game by Hellebuyck," Hughes said. “He was our best player by a mile.”

It was only fitting the Americans needed to go through Canada, their northern neighbor that beat them at the 4 Nations Face-Off a year ago and has won every international competition over the past 16 years that featured the world's best players.

Winning a fast-paced, riveting game that was full of big hits and plenty of post-whistle altercations, the U.S. got a goal from Matt Boldy 6 minutes in and led until Cale Makar tied it late in the second period. Hellebuyck and the penalty kill was a perfect 18 for 18 at the Olympics.

“I can’t even believe this,” Hughes said. “I mean it’s such an unbelievable game, USA-Canada. Such a good game. There’s so many great players. We’re a great team. That’s exactly how we wanted it to go. We’re underdogs to Canada, (but we) beat them. It could have gone either way.”

Hughes paid a painful price when he took the high stick and wound up face down on the ice. The teeth were out, but the celebration wasn't far away.

“More people are going to be looking at his medal than his teeth,” winger Matt Boldy said.

The U.S. finally came through after generations of churning out talent from the grassroots level like a production line. All but two of the 25 players on the team went through USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.

That group of 23 includes captain Auston Matthews, the top line of Brady and Matthew Tkachuk and Jack Eichel, and the second set of brothers, Jack and Quinn Hughes. Much of the team played together either at the program, under-18s, the world junior championship or some combination of them.

The U.S. winning silenced criticism of general manager Bill Guerin and his management group&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/usa-canada-olympic-rosters-gold-8393d8e4b3462ad8dd7bfe4a92382f64">choosing a roster</a>&nbsp;full of experienced veteran players to fill specific roles and leaving four of the top 10 American goal-scorers in the NHL this season at home. Some decisions were no-doubters, like coach Mike Sullivan giving the net to Hellebuyck.

Canada, back-to-back Olympic champions in 2010 and ’14 and winners of three of the first five, fell short while playing without injured captain Sidney Crosby. The 38-year-old two-time gold medalist and three-time Stanley Cup champion left the quarterfinal game against Czechia and sat out the semifinal game against Finland.

McDavid, who wore the “C” in Crosby’s absence, suffered another devastating defeat on the doorstep of a title. He and the Edmonton Oilers have lost to Matthew Tkachuk and the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final each of the past two years.

Edited By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/bridget-brown">BRIDGET BROWN</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/linda-petre">LINDA PETRE</a>U Associated Press

The United States beat Canada 2-1 in overtime to win the men’s hockey gold on the final day of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/milan-cortina-2026-winter-olympics">Milan Cortina Olympics</a>. Jack Hughes scored the winning goal just 1 minute, 41 seconds into overtime.

It is the third Olympic title in men’s hockey for the U.S. — and first since the “Miracle on Ice” at Lake Placid in 1980.

The day will end with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/milan-cortina-closing-ceremony-olympics-winter-games-144560b4be540d20b5c92f48280ba2d5">the closing ceremony</a>, which will celebrate Italian music and dance, both classic and contemporary, headlining internationally acclaimed ballet dancer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/verona-closing-ceremony-bolle-olympics-2026-winter-fd930b7719cfba7fe9d655de289878bd">Roberto Bolle</a>&nbsp;along with popular Italian singer Achille Lauro and DJ Gaby Ponte.

By<a href="https://apnews.com/author/howard-fendrich">HOWARD FENDRICH</a>

As the U.S. team gathered on the ice to celebrate their country’s first gold in men’s hockey since 1980, the crowd joined in on the fun with loud chants of “U-S-A!”

The American men beat Canada 2-1 in overtime — just like the American women beat Canada 2-1 in overtime on Thursday for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-canada-womens-hockey-olympic-final-141b5904352673676656cbe2a1c253e5" target="_blank">other hockey gold</a>.

US wins men’s hockey gold on goal by Jack Hughes

Jack Hughes scored the winning goal just 1 minute, 41 seconds into the first extra period.

It’s a gold medal hockey matchup between the U.S. and Canada. So OF COURSE it’s going to OT.

This men’s matchup is heading to an extra period tied at 1.

Just like Thursday, when the same two countries were even at that score after regulation and went to overtime to decide the gold medal in women’s hockey.

The United States wound up winning that one,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-canada-womens-hockey-olympic-final-141b5904352673676656cbe2a1c253e5" target="_blank">beating Canada 2-1</a>&nbsp;on Megan Keller’s goal.

Canada is outplaying the Americans — but not outscoring them

Canada has outshot the U.S. by a whopping 41-26 margin through three periods.

The numbers since the start of the second period: 33 shots for Canada, 18 for the U.S.

But American goalie Connor Hellebuyck has kept his team in the game, making 40 saves to keep the score 1-1 as they head to overtime.

He wasn’t able to get to one of Canada’s best chances late in the third period — but Hellebuyck, it turned out, didn’t need to.

That’s because Nathan MacKinnon’s shot right from the doorstep went wide to the right of the net.

Next goal gets gold: Hockey final heads to OT

Canada and the U.S. are headed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/overtime-rules-olympic-hockey-81ee13ed53b5b7da4a93cf2697829312" target="_blank">sudden-death overtime</a>&nbsp;in the men’s hockey final, tied 1-all.

The overtime format for the Olympic gold medal game is similar to what the NHL uses in its Stanley Cup playoffs.

The first goal wins it, no matter how long it might take for one team to score — there’s no shootout — but with 3 on 3, instead of 5 on 5

US beats Canada for first men's hockey gold at the Olympics since 1980

BOYS SUB-STATE PAIRINGS&nbsp; 1A DI Osborne Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Mon. 2/23) #1 Central Plains Bye 6:00#9 Ellis @ #8 Hill City 6:00 #13 Stockton @ #4 Sylvan Lucas 6:00 #12 St. Francis @ #5 Decatur Community Semi-Finals Saturday 2/28&nbsp;(Higher seed hosts) 2:00 Ellis/Hill City winner @ Central Plains 2:00 Stockton/Sylvan-Lucas winner vs St. Francis/Decatur winner Championship Friday March 6 @ Osborne TBA 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Mon. 2/23)&nbsp; #1 Meade Bye 6:00 #9 LaCrosse @ #8 Hodgeman County 6:00 #13 Macksville @ #4 South Gray&nbsp; 6:00 #12 Elkhart @ #5 Kiowa County Semi-Finals 2/28 (Higher seed hosts) 2:00 LaCrosse/Hodgeman winner @ Meade 2:00 Macksville/South Gray winner vs Elkhart/Kiowa County winner Championship Friday March 6 @ Spearville TBA 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 2 (1st Round Games Mon. 2/23)&nbsp; #2 Spearville Bye 6:00 #10 Ness City @ #7 Greeley County 6:00 #11 Kinsley @ #6 St. John #3 South Central Bye Semi-Finals 2/28 (Higher seed hosts) 2:00 Ness City/Greeley County winner @ Spearville 2:00 Kinsley/St. John winner @ South Central Championship Friday March 6 @ Spearville TBA 1A DII Colby Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Mon. 2/23)&nbsp; #1 Wallace County Bye 6:00 #9 Golden Plains @ #8 Cheylin 6:00 #13 Winona-Tri-plains @ #4 Victoria #12 Pawnee Heights @ #5 Otis-Bison Semi-Finals 2/28 (Higher seed hosts) 2:00 Golden Plains/Cheylin winner @ Wallace County 2:00 Tri-Plains/Victoria Winner vs Pawnee Heights/Otis-Bison winner Championship Friday March 6 @ Colby TBA 1A DII Wakefield Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Mon. 2/23)&nbsp; #2 Hanover Bye 6:00 #10 Stafford @ #7 Centre 6:00 #11 Chase @ #6 Blue Valley Randolph #3 Tescott Bye Semi-Finals 2/28 (Higher seed hosts) 2:00 Stafford/Centre winner @ Hanover 2:00 Chase/Blue Valley winner @ Tescott Championship Friday March 6 @ Wakefield TBA ------------------------------------------------------------- GIRLS SUB-STATE PAIRINGS&nbsp; 1A DI Osborne Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/14) #1 Quinter Bye 6:00 #9 Victoria @ #8 Lincoln 6:00 #13 Ellis @ #4 Decatur Community 6:00 #12 Lakeside @ #5 Osborne Semi-Finals Monday 3/2&nbsp;(Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Victoria/Lincoln winner @ Quinter 6:00 Ellis/Decatur winner vs Lakeside/Osborne winner Championship Saturday March 7 @ Osborne TBA 1A DI Osborne Sub-State 2 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/24)&nbsp; #2 Rock Hills Bye 6:00 #10 Hill City @ #7 Sylvan-Lucas 6:00 #11 St. Francis @ #6 Central Plains #3 St. John's Beloit Bye Semi-Finals 3/2 (Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Hill City/Sylvan-Lucas winner @ Rock Hills 6:00 St. Francis/Central Plains winner @ St. John's Beloit Championship Friday March 6 @ Spearville TBA 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/14) #1 South Gray Bye 6:00 #9 Kinsley @ #8 Meade 6:00 #13 Ness City @ #4 South Central 6:00 #12 Elkhart @ #5 St. John Semi-Finals Monday 3/2&nbsp;(Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Kinsley/Meade winner @ South Gray 6:00 Ness City/ South Central winner vs Elkhart/St. John winner Championship Saturday March 7 @ Spearville TBA 1A DI Spearville Sub-State 2 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/24)&nbsp; #2 Hodgeman County Bye 6:00 #10 Kiowa County @ Greeley County 6:00 #11 Macksville @ #6 LaCrosse #3 Spearville Bye Semi-Finals 3/2 (Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Kiowa County/Greeley County winner @ Hodgeman County 6:00 Macksville/LaCrosse winner @ Spearville Championship Friday March 6 @ Spearville TBA 1A DII Colby Sub-State 1 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/14) #1 Dighton Bye 6:00 #9 Pawnee Heights @ #8 Weskan 6:00 #13 Winona/Tri-Plains @ #5 Golden Plains #4 Grainfield-Wheatland Bye Semi-Finals Monday 3/2&nbsp;(Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Pawnee Heights/Weskan winner @ Dighton 6:00 Tri-Plains/Golden Plains winner @ Grainfield Wheatland Championship Saturday March 7 @ Colby TBA 1A DII Colby Sub-State 2 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/24)&nbsp; #2 Western Plains Bye 6:00 #10 Otis-Bison @ Wallace County 6:00 #11 Logan-Palco @ #6 Northern Valley #3 Cheylin Bye Semi-Finals 3/2 (Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Otis-Bison/Wallace County winner @ Western Plains 6:00 Logan-Palco/Northern Valley winner @ Cheylin Championship Friday March 6 @ Colby TBA 1A DII Wakefield Sub-State 2 (1st Round Games Tues. 2/24)&nbsp; #2 Linn Bye 6:00 #10 Thunder Ridge @ Tescott 6:00 #11 Wakefield @ #6 Stafford #3 Blue Valley-Randolph Bye Semi-Finals 3/2 (Higher seed hosts) 6:00 Thunder Ridge/Tescott winner @ Linn 6:00 Wakefield/Stafford winner @ Blue Valley Championship Friday March 6 @ Wakefield TBA

Area Sub-State Pairings 1A DI/1A DII

Sunday, February 22 2:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - Denver @ Golden State Monday, February 23 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 4:15PM B104 - H.S. Basketball - Liberal G&amp;B @ Great Bend 7:30PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Houston @ Kansas Tuesday, February 24 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM KHOK - H.S. Basketball - Hoisington G&amp;B @ Halstead 5:45PM Hits 106.9 - H.S. Basketball - Larned G&amp;B @ Smoky Valley Wednesday, February 25 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:15PM B104 - Cougar Basketball - Seward County W&amp;M @ Barton Thursday, February 26 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM KHOK - 3A Boys Sub-State - Ellsworth @ Hoisington 5:45PM Hits 106.9- 3A Boys Sub-State - Larned @ Lakin Friday, February 27 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day 5:45PM B104 - High School Basketball - Hays @ Great Bend 5:45PM KHOK - 3A Girls Sub-State - Colby @ Hoisington 5:45PM Hits 106.9- 3A Girls Sub-State - Scott City @ Larned&nbsp; Saturday, February 28 3:00PM Hits 106.9 - Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ Arizona 7:00PM&nbsp;1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - Houston @ NY Knicks Sunday, March 1 2:00PM 1590/95.5FM - NBA Basketball - Golden State @ Oklahoma City Monday,&nbsp;March 2 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day Tuesday,&nbsp;March 3 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day TBA B104- 5A Boys Sub-State Semi's - Great Bend vs TBA TBA KHOK - 3A Boys Sub-State Semi's - Hoisington vs TBA TBA Hits 106.9- 3A Boys Sub-State Semi's - Larned vs TBA 7:30 PM TBA -&nbsp;Jayhawk Basketball - Kansas @ Arizona State Wednesday,&nbsp;March 4 12:30PM 1590/95.5FM - Sports Day TBA B104- 5A Girls Sub-State Semi's - Great Bend vs TBA TBA KHOK - 3A Girls Sub-State Semi's - Hoisington vs TBA TBA Hits 106.9- 3A Girls Sub-State Semi's - Larned vs TBA&nbsp;&nbsp;

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-tariffs-trump-0485fcda30a7310501123e4931dba3f9">Supreme Court on Friday struck down</a>&nbsp;President Donald Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-economy-liberation-day-d3458da225c1fdfade97ed494b23e868">biggest and boldest tariffs</a>. But the justices left a $133 billion question unanswered: What's going to happen to the money the government has already collected in import taxes now declared unlawful?

Companies have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/costco-tariffs-supreme-court-trump-illegal-86203801e7a0f690d333c087b9db844f">lining up for refunds</a>. But the way forward could prove chaotic.

When the smoke clears, trade lawyers say, importers are likely to get money back — eventually. “It’s going to be a bumpy ride for awhile," said trade lawyer Joyce Adetutu, a partner at the Vinson &amp; Elkins law firm.

The refund process is likely to be hashed out by a mix of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency, the specialized Court of International Trade in New York and other lower courts, according to a note to clients by lawyers at the legal firm Clark Hill.

"The amount of money is substantial," Adetutu said. "The courts are going to have a hard time. Importers are going to have a hard time.’’

Still, she added, “it’s going to be really difficult not to have some sort of refund option’’ given how decisively the Supreme Court repudiated Trump’s tariffs.

In its 6-3 opinion on Friday, the court ruled Trump’s attempt to use an emergency powers law to enact the levies was not valid. Two of the three justices appointed by Trump joined the majority in striking down the first major piece of his second-term agenda to come before them.

At issue are double-digit tariffs Trump imposed on almost every country in the world last year by invoking the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The Supreme Court ruled that the law did not give the president authority to tax imports, a power that belongs to Congress.

The U.S. customs agency has already collected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ieepa-tariffs-supreme-court-12487645072a1e1a387db60081509f3c">$133 billion in IEEPA tariffs</a>&nbsp;as of mid-December. But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-supreme-court-refunds-81432b8fecf6c3183f3aba84a0c07edb">consumers hoping for a refund</a>&nbsp;are unlikely to be compensated for the higher prices they paid when companies passed along the cost of the tariffs; that's more likely to go to the companies themselves.

In a dissenting opinion, Justice Brett Kavanaugh dinged his colleagues for dodging the refund issue: “The Court says nothing today about whether, and if so how, the Government should go about returning the billions of dollars that it has collected from importers.’’

Borrowing a word that Justice Amy Coney Barrett — who sided with the majority — used during the court’s November hearing on the case, Kavanaugh warned that “the refund process is likely to be a ‘mess.’"

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