Emporia Daily Brief: February 7, 2026

Kansas Day at the zoo this morning

Emporia families kicked off the weekend with a Kansas-themed Science Saturday at the David Traylor Zoo. From 10 a.m. to noon, the zoo’s education center is hosting hands-on activities led by Emporia State’s aquatic research and outreach team, featuring live animals native to Kansas and kid-friendly science stations. It’s a low-cost way to celebrate the state’s 165th birthday close to home.

Wreaths Across America volunteers retire 2,300 wreaths

Later today, volunteers will gather at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery from noon to 2 p.m. to remove more than 2,300 wreaths placed on veterans’ graves during the holidays. Organizers encourage residents of all ages to help with the careful cleanup, which closes out this season’s remembrance effort and helps prepare the grounds for spring. Parking is outside the cemetery along nearby streets.

Hornet women stun No. 15 Pittsburg State

Emporia State women’s basketball delivered a signature win Thursday night at White Auditorium, knocking off 15th-ranked Pittsburg State 65–63. Freshman Vanessa Coleman capped a 22-point performance with a game-winning bucket in the final seconds, sending the home crowd into a roar. The victory gives the Hornets valuable momentum heading into today’s conference matchup against Missouri Southern at 1:30 p.m.

Spartan boys win overtime thriller

On the high school hardwood, Emporia High’s boys pulled out a dramatic 73–70 overtime win against Manhattan on Friday night. The Spartans traded runs with the Indians in regulation, then made just enough plays in the extra period to escape with the road victory. The result is a timely boost as Emporia moves into the heart of Sunflower League play and gears up for sub-state positioning later this month.

Library on the Go visits the farmers market

The Emporia Public Library’s mobile outreach is scheduled to join the Emporia Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to noon today. Shoppers can sign up for a library card, check out books on the spot, and let kids explore quick activities while adults browse local vendors. It’s a small but welcome way to connect downtown commerce, literacy, and weekend family time.

Sources

• https://allevents.in/emporia/kansas-day-celebration/200029581194742
• https://www.lyoncountyks.gov/Calendar.aspx
• https://www.wibw.com/2026/02/06/emporia-state-women-defeat-no-15-pittsburg-state-buzzer-beater/
• https://www.wibw.com/video/2026/02/07/kpz-week-9-game-week-b-emporia-73-vs-manhattan-70-ot/
• https://emporiapl.librarycalendar.com/events/month/2025/10