By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

For one night, the spotlight belonged to the kings and queens of Night to Shine on Friday.

The 10th annual Night to Shine celebrates individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with an evening designed to make every guest feel like royalty.

Guests who need attire receive a tuxedo or dress fitting and can have their hair styled at a local salon. They then make a red-carpet entrance before meeting their volunteer buddies, who spend the evening by their side.

The evening included a catered meal, dancing and a variety of activities. It concluded with every guest being crowned king or queen.

🎥 Night to Shine in Hays 2026

Taegan Shannon, Ellis, has been named to the President’s List at the University of Southern Mississippi for the fall semester of the 2025-2026 academic year.&nbsp;

Shannon is a freshman majoring in Legal Studies with an emphasis on Pre-Law.&nbsp;&nbsp;She is also a member of the Delta Gamma Sorority. &nbsp;

Shannon is the daughter of Brian and Amanda Shannon. &nbsp;

Students are placed on the <a href="https://www.usm.edu/registrar/presidents-list/index.php">President’s List</a> if they earn a 4.0 grade point average (all A’s) while completing a minimum academic load of 12 or more semester hours during the fall or spring semester, or nine or more semester hours during the summer term.

Additionally, students must have no grade of Incomplete (I) for the term. Courses taken for pass-fail credit are not included in computing the minimum academic load.

Ellis freshman named to President's List at University of Southern Mississippi

WAKEENEY — Western Cooperative Electric is pleased to announce that&nbsp; Safety Manager Jay Scott has successfully completed the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Certified Loss Control Program, a nationally recognized professional development program focused on safety leadership and risk management within the electric cooperative industry.

The NRECA Certified Loss Control Program is an intensive and specialized training designed to equip safety professionals with advanced knowledge and tools to identify hazards, reduce risk, and strengthen workplace safety programs. The curriculum emphasizes loss prevention, regulatory compliance, employee safety training, and the development of proactive safety cultures tailored specifically to electric cooperatives.

Scott’s completion of this program reflects a strong commitment to safety excellence and continuous professional development. As Safety Manager, Scott plays a critical role in ensuring Western Cooperative Electric maintains high safety standards for employees, operations, and the communities it serves. 

The advanced training gained through this certification enhances Western’s ability to proactively manage risk, improve safety procedures, and reinforce a culture where safety remains a top priority.

“Safety is foundational to everything we do at Western,” said Nolan Numrich, CEO/general manager of Western Cooperative Electric. “Jay’s completion of the NRECA Certified Loss Control Program strengthens our commitment to protecting our employees and serving our members safely and responsibly. We are proud of his dedication and the expertise he brings back to our organization.”

Western Cooperative Electric places a strong emphasis on employee training and professional growth, recognizing that an investment in safety leadership, directly contributes to reliable service and operational excellence. 

The cooperative congratulates Jay Scott on this achievement and recognizes the long-term value this certification brings to the organization, its employees, and the members it serves.

Loss control certification earned by Western Cooperative Electric safety manager

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the economic benefits of tourism to Hays.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays: Economic impact of tourism on Hays

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

A friend texted me this morning to say he had nearly choked on his coffee when a woodpecker unexpectedly began hammering on the side of his house. 

Whether it’s fishing along a deserted stretch of riverbank, or attempting to sit motionless and silently under a tree or bush awaiting a spring gobbler, I’ve always noticed that there seems to be an apparent abundance of woodpeckers in the spring. 

I’m not complaining, mind you, as their staccato hammering is a nice percussion addition to nature’s spring symphony. It’s just that I seem to hear so many more of them in spring than any other time of the year. Well, I believe I’ve found the answer to my question, and here’s a little “Woodpecker 101” to boot.

Woodpeckers are found everywhere on the planet except Australia, New Zealand and Madagascar. The largest is the great slaty in southeast Asia that can grow to 20 inches long, and the smallest are only 3 to 4 inches long and belong to a group from South America called the piculets. 

 Woodpeckers mate for life, and after eggs are laid, both parents help with incubation. 

They are omnivores, meaning they eat most anything, and their diet includes insects and insect larvae, tree sap, seeds and nuts. Most woodpeckers have long tongues to reach deep into holes to extract insects and larvae. That tongue can be as long as four inches on certain species and when not in use it’s actually stored wrapped around the back of its head in a special sort of pouch between the skin and the skull. 

Woodpeckers are easy to spot in flight as they have a very different and distinct flight pattern. They flap their wings three times and then glide, then three more flaps, then glide, etc. until they reach their destination; this flight pattern never changes.

I’m sure we’ve all seen woodpeckers hanging vertically from the side of a tree as they dig for insects, and God has specifically designed them for all aspects of that job. 

The toes of their feet point both forward and backwards to hold them in place, and they have long stiffened tail feathers that prop them up like leaning against the back of a chair. 

Their beaks are long, slender and uniquely self-sharpening, and the machine-gun-like sound we hear them making as they drill for insects and grubs is known as “drumming.” Woodpeckers’ brains are&nbsp;protected by special air pockets in their skulls that cushion each blow as they drum, which can be 20 times per second and amount to more than 10, 000 times each day.

I’ve always thought that woodpeckers hammered away on trees and poles solely to search for insects and larvae, but I’ve learned that’s only part of the story. 

Both male and female woodpeckers drum, and besides digging for food, they drum to excavate den holes in dead trees, which they do anew each year, and since woodpeckers do not have vocal songs, they drum to communicate, and to establish territories and attract mates if they don’t have one. So, it all fits that I would hear them more often now in early spring as they prepare new nests, establish their territories and communicate to prospective mates.

Ya’ know, the Kansas outdoors is one huge classroom, and it’s great when I also learn something from what I write. And by the way, this year the most famous woodpecker of all times, Woody, turns 85 years old; that’s a lot of drummin’! 

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Woodpeckers: Nature’s little drummers

Senate committees remained active over the past two weeks, holding hearings, refining legislation, and advancing bills to General Orders for full Senate debate and voting. The Ways and Means Committee has also begun reviewing the state budget, with agencies presenting funding requests as lawmakers work to identify priorities and potential savings.

With Turnaround Day on February 19 approaching—the deadline for most bills to pass their chamber of origin—legislative activity continues to increase. Tax relief and the state budget remain top priorities, and additional bill hearings, budget recommendations, and tax policy discussions are expected in the coming weeks. Nearly 500 bills have been introduced in the Senate since the beginning of the 2025–2026 legislative biennium, with several measures already advancing to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/">SB 244</a> – Clarifies provisions of the Women’s Bill of Rights by requiring official state documents, including driver’s licenses and birth certificates, to reflect biological sex at birth and establishes guidelines for multiple-occupancy private spaces in government buildings. The bill passed 30–9 and now heads to the Governor. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb254/">SB 254</a> – Prohibits individuals unlawfully present in the United States from receiving certain state or local public benefits. The bill passed 30–9. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2347/">CCR 2347</a> – A comprehensive public-safety measure strengthening penalties for certain theft-related offenses, addressing fraudulent use of gift cards, increasing penalties related to purchasing sexual relations, and creating the crime of unlawful use of a laser pointer directed at law enforcement officers or aircraft. The bill passed 39–0 and now heads to the Governor. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1615/">SCR 1615</a> – Honors the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk for his work promoting free speech and civil discourse on college campuses and recognizes October 14 as Charlie Kirk Free Speech Day. The resolution passed 30–9. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb299/">SB 299</a> – Increases transparency by opening certain records of the Kansas Supreme Court Nominating Commission to public disclosure while protecting confidential applicant information. The bill passed 38–0. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb66/">Sub for SB 66</a> – Updates filing requirements for Statements of Substantial Interests (SSI) by local officials and requires verbal public disclosure of certain financial interests. The bill passed 36–3. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb184/"> SB 184</a> – Modifies provisions within the Kansas Drycleaner Environmental Response Act, including surcharge and penalty adjustments. The bill passed 37–2. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb348/"> SB 348</a> – Exempts certain not-for-profit electric public utility subsidiaries of electric cooperatives from portions of Kansas Corporation Commission regulation while preserving customer petition rights. The bill passed 38–0. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2331/">HB 2331</a> – Establishes procedures for the disposition of unclaimed cremated remains, includes provisions related to veterans’ remains, and creates the crime of aggravated criminal desecration. The bill passed 38–0. I voted yes.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb327/">SB 327</a> – Updates meeting requirements for the Robert G. (Bob) Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community Based Services and KanCare Oversight. The bill passed 38–0. I voted yes.

Dwight Keen – Kansas Corporation Commission. Confirmation passed 38–0. I voted yes.

January 29, 2026, marked the 165th anniversary of President James Buchanan signing the bill admitting Kansas as the 34th state of the United States. Kansas is named for the Kansa, an Algonquian word referring to the Kaw people. Our state is rich in history, natural beauty, and notable landmarks.

Within Senate District 36, we are fortunate to be home to remarkable historic sites, including the Pony Express Riders Memorial in Marshall County, the Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia, Rock City near Minneapolis, and the “Home on the Range Cabin” in Smith County—the birthplace of our state song. “Home on the Range” was adopted as the official Kansas state song on June 30, 1947. Kansas also has two official state marches: “The Kansas March” and “Here’s Kansas.”

Our state flag, designed by Hazel Avery of Lincoln County in 1925, features the Great Seal of the State of Kansas and our state motto, “Ad Astra Per Aspera”—“To the Stars Through Difficulties.” In 1961, legislation introduced by Senator Ross Doyen of Concordia added the word “KANSAS” beneath the seal.

VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF KANSAS

A wealth of information about Kansas government services can be found at <a href="https://portal.kansas.gov/">www.kansas.gov</a>, including business services, tax filing through WebFile, forms available through the Secretary of State, Learning Quest programs through the State Treasurer’s Office, and links to all three branches of state government.

Kansas residents can obtain information about legislation, legislative procedures, public policy issues, and state government services by calling the Legislative Hotline at 1-800-432-3924. Calls are answered by reference librarians at the State Library of Kansas and are kept confidential. Lines are open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Messages for legislators may also be left through the hotline.

Questions may also be emailed to infodesk@ks.gov, or Kansans may chat in real time through the State Library’s Ask-A-Librarian service at kslib.info/ask. Text questions can be sent to 785-256-0733.

Senator Elaine Bowers Kansas State Capitol Building – Room 223-E 300 SW 10th St. Topeka, KS 66612 elaine.bowers@senate.ks.gov 785-296-7389 <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/">www.kslegislature.org</a> <a href="https://elainebowers.com/">www.elainebowers.com</a>

BOWERS: 2026 Senate Scene - Weeks 3 and 4

FAYETTEVILLE, Arkansas — The University of Arkansas is recognizing students for earning a place on the Fall 2025 Chancellor's List, the university's highest academic honor for undergraduates during the semester.

Kyzer Fox of Hays joins a select group of students who have achieved a 4.0 grade-point average for the semester while completing at least 12 credit hours of coursework required for graduation.

"Earning a place on the Chancellor's List reflects not only a perfect GPA, but also the hard work and sustained commitment to excellence required to achieve it while balancing coursework with life's many responsibilities," said Chancellor Charles Robinson. "Students like these strengthen the University of Arkansas in significant ways, from elevating the classroom experience of their peers and professors to reinforcing our reputation for developing some of the nation's brightest and most capable graduates. I congratulate them on this achievement and look forward to the great things they'll accomplish in the years ahead."

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://email.meritpages.com/ss/c/u001.g63uWesTOoMiEDvepx4RZVGbjnyDfSXb5Bn1iklULXSv-kgj1CtGcJuoiQCtOR2jVwfzzaVeimlINDu27dLEVdYNtRy9ss2ITeG5SteWoP_tIj-zh43xOMPJwkOMUZOD/4o1/5K__N0S2T6WR-r0a3i9MTQ/h0/h001.JFFJAfzIf0nLGXMAEtGrUt-jrsg9zKQ71c_HcvFRfG4">Fall 2025 Chancellor's List</a>&nbsp;is available online.

All students on the Chancellor's List also automatically earn recognition on the university's Dean's List, which honors undergraduates who achieve a minimum 3.75 grade-point average while completing at least 12 credit hours.

Hays student named to University of Arkansas Chancellor's List

By BILL FIANDER Insight Kansas

By many measures, one could argue the Kelly-Toland years have been the biggest economic boon the state has ever seen.

Pick any measure…$30 billion of private sector investment (most per capita in nation), almost 80,000 new or retained jobs that pay 7.7% more than the average private sector wage in Kansas, highest ever Kansas exports, four consecutive Golden Shovel awards, a recent $3 billion budget surplus, or the coup de grace…securing the biggest economic win in state history luring the Chiefs from Missouri.

Just don’t pick population growth. At least on its face. 

Last month, census population estimates were released for 2025 showing Kansas, while achieving a modicum of growth since 2020 (1.3%), lagged all neighboring states (Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma, Iowa, and Nebraska) who averaged 2.8%, or more than double the rate of Kansas. The U.S. growth rate was 3.0%.

It’s hard to beat population growth as the gold standard metric for economic success in localities. It’s easy to see why when a community’s fortunes are tethered to it.

For example, in growing communities, if it costs each taxpayer $100 to provide “good” schools in their community, having more people (i.e., income) effectively allows the government to either lower everyone’s taxes to maintain the same level of service or keep spending levels at $100 for “better” schools. Either choice makes the community more competitive.

Conversely, communities with declining populations are death spirals. Fewer taxpayers paying $100 for “good” schools forces a decision point on local government – increase taxes to maintain “good” schools or keep them flat for “okay” schools. 

Either choice is a losing proposition and just induces more middle class wage earners to vote with their feet leaving behind a cost of operation fewer people can afford in their wake.

So, while adding jobs and private sector investment are significant precursors to growing population, why is Kansas’ population gains underachieving?

Of the seven biggest developments that opened under Kelly-Toland, four dot growing urbanizing counties between 2020-2024 – NBAF/Riley (0.8%), NBAF/Pottawatomie (6.0%), Panasonic/Johnson (3.7%), Integra/Sedgwick (2.3%), and Urban Outfitters/Wyandotte (0.1%). Wyandotte springboards to 2.2% since 2022. 

The remaining three developments dot shrinking rural to semi-rural counties - Hilmar Cheese/Ford (-0.6%), Schwan’s&nbsp;Pizza/Saline (-1.6%), and Amber Wave/Phillips (-5.0%). 

Localized population growth is happening, but when 75% of the 105 counties have not grown since 2020, statewide gains fight an uphill battle.

Another trend affecting state population is the nation’s own growth. Population math made simple: take births, minus deaths, factor arriving and departing migrants. This formula ensured U.S. population growth was unstoppable over its 250-year history. And in turn helped states grow.

By 2030, U.S. deaths will likely outnumber births. Without natural growth, only net migration remains. And under current immigration policies, net international migration has plummeted so much that the U.S. population could shrink for the first-time in its history next year. 

Kansas’s own international migration in 2024-25 cratered to 7,440 from the previous year’s 13,829 due to the chilling effect on new migrants rather than deportations.

In conclusion, the Kelly-Toland wins have shown some silver linings even in the face of these obstacles. 

Last year, Kansas domestic net migration increased by 4,000 people from the previous year, virtually all 39,000+ people added to Kansas since 2020 occurred since 2022, and many big STAR Bond projects focus on out-of-state visitors – a proxy for temporary population growth.

Good signs that the massive economic wins under Kelly-Toland stand to bear population&nbsp;fruit.

Bill Fiander teaches university-level courses in Kansas covering state/local government, public administration, and city planning.

Insight Kansas: Are Kansas’ economic wins also translating to population wins?

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

Sunday, February 22nd is NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY! And Fuzzy's Taco Shop is the best place to celebrate! Take the quiz below to see what Fuzzy's Margarita fits your personality best!

Come check out Fuzzy's Taco Shop at&nbsp;4310 Vine St, Hays, KS 67601!

Colby hosted regional KidWind Challenge on Thursday; more to come

Ana's Gift is collecting new stuffed animals for children who have experienced trauma.

At 16, Ana Hertel embarked on a mission to bring comfort to children experiencing trauma by collecting stuffed animals.

Although Ana died shortly after starting the project, her parents, Lori and Stan Hertel, have continued her mission.

The stuffed animals must be new with tags.

They can be dropped off at Eagle Radio, 2300 Hall; Jeter Law Firm, 1200 Main St #101; Golden Plains Credit Union, 2720 Broadway Ave.; and First Kansas Bank,&nbsp;1200 E. 27th St.

Stuffed animal donations sought for Ann's Gift

The Hays Area Planning Commission will meet at 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16, in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Agenda items include a public hearing for proposed&nbsp;Unified Development Code changes to reduce sideyard setbacks for&nbsp;carports.&nbsp;Under current regulations, carports must meet accessory structure side and rear setbacks of five feet.

Commissioners will also conduct the annual comprehensive plan review.

The complete agenda is available<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02162026-1595"> here</a>.&nbsp;

Hays Area Planning Commission to conduct public hearing on setbacks for carports

Northcentral and Northwest Extension Districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension again will be hosting an online agronomy series, “Crop Talk”,&nbsp; which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. These will be on Tuesdays through March 10, and each session will be held from noon to 1:00 p.m. CST.

In the northcentral and northwest agronomy-focused areas, the meetings will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension faculty to enhance management strategies utilized by crop producers.

Planned topics of discussion include Available Soil Water at Planting and Related Management; Wheat conditions and Breeding efforts on Mosaic Viruses; Fungicide Applications in Corn and Sorghum, and Insects to watch for in the Field.

There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists at each of the sessions.

Register online by searching for “<a href="https://www.wkrec.org/events/croptalk/">KSU Crop Talk webinars</a>” or call your local Extension Office. Once you register, a link to the online sessions will be emailed to you.

CCA credits have been applied for with 1 credit for each session.

KSU Crop Talk webinar series returns for producers

Western Plains Arts Association COLBY —&nbsp;&nbsp;Western Plains Arts Association’s January 25th show was postponed because of weather and is now rescheduled for&nbsp;Sunday, February 22.

Jeff Davidson will have his public performance at the Quinter High School Auditorium at 3:00 p.m. Davidson is bringing the history of the Santa Fe Trail to life through song, stories and pictures. Admission will be by WPAA season ticket or at the door.

There will be a school presentation in the Quinter High School Auditorium on Monday, February 23 at 9:00 a.m. and then another at noon at the Oakley High School Auditorium for Oakley Elementary. School performances are free to all who attend.

Thanks again to our area sponsors, especially the Gove County Community Foundation and the Dane G Hansen Foundation. Additionally, it is sponsored in part by the state of Kansas through the Kansas Arts&nbsp; Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts.

RESCHEDULED: Jeff Davidson brings Santa Fe Trail history to life through song, stories, pictures

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

FHSU University Communications

A free virtual online open house will be hosted by Fort Hays State University on Tuesday,&nbsp;March 10, 4:30-6 p.m. CDT for area families and adult learners.&nbsp;

The event is open to&nbsp;any prospective student, including:&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Parents with&nbsp;college-bound students&nbsp;who want to learn more about admissions, financial aid, and next steps. • Working adults or parents considering returning to school or upskilling. • • Community members exploring flexible online degree options

This is a&nbsp;virtual, drop-in event, allowing participants to join at their convenience. Attendees can:&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Connect directly with faculty and university staff. • Get help with&nbsp;applications and FAFSA. • Learn about&nbsp;scholarship opportunities and prize drawings&nbsp;available to participants

Check out the event website to learn more:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/online/open-house/">https://www.fhsu.edu/online/open-house/</a>.

Free FHSU Online Open House for Hays area families, adult learners

HaysMed will host the Healing Kids’ Heart Retreat on Saturday, March 28, 2026, offering a compassionate, supportive one-day program for children coping with the loss of a loved one. The retreat will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bob &amp; Pat Schmidt Community Center, 2510 Canterbury Drive in Hays.

The Healing Kids’ Heart Retreat provides a safe and confidential environment where children can learn healthy ways to understand and navigate grief. Participants will take part in hands-on activities, guided discussions, and meaningful projects designed specifically for their emotional and developmental needs.

“HaysMed is committed to caring for the whole person, and that includes supporting families and children through difficult emotional experiences,” said Sarah Dreiling, HaysMed director of clinical care. “Programs like the Healing Kids’ Heart Retreat help ensure that no child has to navigate grief alone.”

Throughout the day, trained volunteers will guide children through activities that honor the memory of their loved one, encourage healthy expression, and foster connection with peers who have gone through similar experiences. Each participant will be paired with a dedicated adult buddy for support and encouragement.

Lunch will be provided, and there is no cost for children to attend.

Participation is free, but registration is required and limited to the first 20 children. Forms must be submitted by March 1, 2026. Families interested in registering may contact the HaysMed Hospice Department, which can provide all registration details by phone or mail an application upon request.

For more information or to register, contact: Phone: 785-623-6200 Email: mjordan1@haysmed.com

HaysMed hosts Healing Kids’ Heart Retreat March 28 for children experiencing grief

Rose Garden to host Valentine's Day Buffet on Saturday

Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services&nbsp;

The Ellis County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) and the Center for Empowering Victims of Gender-based Violence at Fort Hays State University invite the community to attend Surviving the I-70 Rapist: A Story of Strength and Healing on April 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the Beach Schmidt Auditorium on the FHSU campus. The event is free and open to the public.

The evening’s main speaker, Stacie Edgett-Minson, is a survivor of the serial sexual assaults committed by the individual known as the I-70 Rapist. In a powerful and rare public presentation, Edgett-Minson will share her journey of survival and healing, including how her faith, alongside the support of dedicated investigators and prosecutors, helped her reclaim a sense of strength and hope after trauma.

“Choosing to share such a deeply personal experience takes tremendous courage,” said Anniston Weber, community engagement and sexual violence response coordinator at Options. “Stacie’s story is not only one of survival, but of resilience and perseverance. Hearing directly from her reminds our community why believing and supporting survivors matters.”

Edgett-Minson will be joined by Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett, and former Kansas Bureau of Investigation agent Mark Kendrick, both of whom were directly involved in the investigation and prosecution of the case. Their participation offers insight into how collaborative, survivor-centered responses can lead to accountability and justice.

Following the presentation, a panel of local professionals will be available to answer questions about sexual assault response and survivor services in Ellis County. Panelists will include representatives from Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, Hays Medical Center, the Hays Police Department, and the Ellis County Attorney’s Office.

“This event is an opportunity for our community to learn, reflect, and strengthen local response efforts,” said Jennifer Hecker, executive director at Options. “By bringing together survivors, advocates, healthcare providers, and law enforcement, we reinforce that healing looks different for everyone, and that survivors deserve support at every step.”

Content Notice: This event includes discussion of sexual violence and may be emotionally difficult for some attendees. Support resources will be available during and after the presentation, and community members are encouraged to care for their well-being when choosing to attend.

Organizers emphasize that the event is grounded in hope, healing, and community responsibility, and encourage anyone interested in understanding survivor experiences and local resources to attend.

For more information, please contact Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services at 785-625-4202.

Surviving the I-70 Rapist: Options to host speakers April 6

How the humanities shape understanding of race, justice, civic responsibility

Another shutdown for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homeland-security-shutdown-ice-democrats-demands-ff3aadec8eeab250aea5bf8a8ecdb960">parts of the federal government</a>&nbsp;is underway&nbsp;as a fight over proposed restrictions on President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement agenda drags on.

Funding for the Department of Homeland Security expired on Saturday. Democrats say they will not help approve more money until&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-immigration-enforcement-democrats-homeland-security-trump-bcde78c38605732106fb77e46373dc9a">the new limits</a>&nbsp;are placed on federal immigration operations after the fatal shooting of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">Alex Pretti</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">Renee Good</a>&nbsp;in Minneapolis last month.

The White House has been negotiating with the Democrats, but the two sides&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homeland-security-funding-shutdown-democrats-trump-4e9c4cebd45396e77f8333fd6cc31944">failed to reach a deal</a>&nbsp;by the end of the week. That meant a lapse in funding for the department.

Unlike the record&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-reopen-update-house-returns-5771f2befb15f4ab45e327369f2e98d9">43-day shutdown</a>&nbsp;last fall, the closures will be narrowly confined.

Only agencies under the DHS umbrella, such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Transportation Security Administration, are affected. Depending on how long the shutdown lasts, some federal workers could begin to miss paychecks.

But the work of ICE and CBP will mostly continue unabated, despite Democrats' demands for changes at those agencies. President Donald Trump's tax and spending cut law from 2025 provided ICE with about $75 billion and CBP with about $65 billion — money they can keep tapping for the Republican's deportation operations.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dhs-shutdown-tsa-travel-airports-delays-ff8b225c6ff8d57172fd301a550057b3">Services like airport screening</a>&nbsp;could suffer if the shutdown drags on for weeks.

At TSA, about 95% of employees are deemed essential. They will continue to scan passengers and their bags at the nation’s commercial airports. But they will work without pay until the funding lapse is resolved, raising the possibility that workers will being calling out or taking unscheduled leave. Many TSA workers already faced financial stress last year.

“Some are just now recovering from the financial impact of the 43-day shutdown” said Ha Nguyen McNeill, a senior official performing the duties of TSA administrator. “Many are still reeling from it.”

Why is a Homeland Security shutdown happening?

Essentially, it's because Trump acquiesced to Democrats' request that homeland security funding be stripped from a broader spending package to allow more time for negotiation over demands for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-partial-shutdown-ice-funding-homeland-security-35abc94e6579e701f03d9c18ca5a7c44">changes to immigration enforcement</a>&nbsp;such as a code of conduct for federal agents and a requirement that officers show identification. DHS was temporarily funded only through Friday.

The rest of the federal government is funded through Sept. 30. That means most federal programs are unaffected by the latest shutdown, including food assistance, and pay for most federal workers and for service members will continue uninterrupted.

Other agencies affected are the Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The vast majority of employees at the Secret Service and U.S. Coast Guard will continue their work, though they could also miss a paycheck depending upon the shutdown's length.

At FEMA, the shutdown will disrupt the agency's ability to reimburse states for disaster relief costs. Some workers will be furloughed, limiting the agency's ability to coordinate with state and local partners. Training for first responders at the National Disaster and Emergency Management University in Maryland will be disrupted.

It’s up to each federal agency to designate which of its employees are “essential” or “excepted,” both of which mean the same thing in this case. They keep working during a shutdown, typically without getting paid until government funding is back in place.

Some examples of “essential” employees are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/military-culture-pentagon-hegseth-dei-tansgender-4c5f94c1235d29240b22677e3d66f0ed">military personnel</a>, security screeners at airports and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/deployment-trump-portland-national-guard-lawsuit-8a0323d49b708ebf905527f897352832">law enforcement officers</a>. There can be a wide range, from positions deemed critical for public safety to those authorized by law to continue even without new funding.

Most of the more than 270,000 people employed by DHS are deemed essential, meaning that they stay on the job even during a shutdown. For the fall 2025 shutdown, more than 258,000 DHS employees were in that category, and about 22,000 — or 5% of the agency's total employee base — were furloughed.

Lawmakers have been particularly concerned about the potential impact on the TSA and airports.

Senate Republican leader John Thune of South Dakota warned that “there’s a very good chance we could see more travel problems” similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">last year's shutdown</a>. As staffing shortages grow, airports may reduce the number of open security lanes or close checkpoints altogether to relieve pressure on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-government-shutdown-travel-aviation-flight-delays-211022120bf96ab95dc6861ca5a7e32d">an already strained workforce</a>.

During last year’s lapse in funding, unpaid TSA workers increasingly called in sick or stayed home as missed paychecks made it harder for workers to cover basic expenses. The strain was visible on the ground: About a month into the shutdown, TSA closed two checkpoints at Philadelphia International Airport.

“The longer the shutdown goes on, the more severe the impact on our TSA workforce,” the agency said at the time.

New details on the U.S. Homeland Security shutdown

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are searching for suspects in a deadly nightclub shooting in Kansas City, Missouri.

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 Becchins.

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. 

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&nbsp; 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.

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 is reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;Homicide detectives were at the scene now and are investigating. They are talking to people who were at the scene when officers arrived and canvassing for additional witnesses.&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;There is no information at this time regarding suspect description. Police did not release the names of the victims.

2 women dead, 2 others injured in KC nightclub shooting

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/adriana-morga">ADRIANA MORGA</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — It’s been a confusing time for people with student loans. Collections restarted, then were put on hold. At the same time, borrowers had to stay on top of changes to key forgiveness plans.

Last year, the long-contested SAVE plan introduced by the Biden administration ended with a settlement agreement. President Donald Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” introduced new borrowing limits for graduates and raised challenges to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. While several changes for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/student-loans">student loan borrowers</a>&nbsp;will take effect this summer, other key questions remain unresolved.

More than 5 million Americans were in default on their federal student loans as of September, according to the Education Department. Millions are behind on loan payments and at risk of default this year.

Borrowers “genuinely struggle to afford their loans and then to hear that the administration is making it more expensive and taking away some of the tools and resources that help folks afford their loans is really, it’s panic-inducing,” said Winston Berkman-Breen, legal director at Protect Borrowers.

Last month, the Education Department announced that it would delay involuntary collections for student loan borrowers in default until the department finalizes its new loan repayment plans. The date for this is still unclear.

If you’re a student loan borrower, here are some key things to know:

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loans-forgiveness-save-plan-debt-borrowers-313afd73cadc3cfc8ab3a6ee684fc3e4">SAVE plan</a>&nbsp;was a repayment plan with some of the most lenient terms ever. Soon after its launch it was challenged in court, leaving millions of student loan borrowers in limbo. Last December, the Education Department announced a settlement agreement to end the SAVE plan. What is next for borrowers who were enrolled in this repayment plan is yet to be determined.

“Seven and a half million borrowers who are currently enrolled in SAVE need to be moved to another plan,” Berkman-Breen said.

As part of the agreement, the Education Department says it will not enroll new borrowers, deny pending applications, and will move all current SAVE borrowers into other repayment plans.

The Education Department is expected to develop a plan for borrowers to transition from the SAVE plan, yet borrowers should be proactive about enrolling in other repayment plans, said Kate Wood, a lending expert at NerdWallet.

If you are looking to enroll in an income-driven repayment plan

Borrowers can apply for the following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/income-repayment-plans-pause-forgiveness-student-loans-b50dc92f50577ac5c6a9d9ed4a2f9dfd">income-driven plans</a>: the Income-Based Repayment Plan, the Pay as You Earn plan, and the Income-Contingent Repayment plan.

“They all have similar criteria, and they function similarly. Your payment is set as a percentage of your income, not how much you owe, so it’s usually a lower payment,” Berkman-Breen said.

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