FHSU base for officer&nbsp;de-escalation training

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Fort Hays State University hosted law enforcement officers on Friday to recertify as trainers in de-escalation techniques.

The FHSU Criminal Justice program is home to the&nbsp;Central Regional Training Center of the National De-Escalation Training Center.

The center staff has trained more than 5,000 law enforcement officers across the United States.

As a result of the training, almost 60% of officers were better able to identify and respond to escalated situations, according to the center.&nbsp;

Following de-escalation training, 95% of the officers involved demonstrated high skill in applying de-escalation techniques (compared with 30% before training), the center reported.

Participants in the class shared their thoughts on the importance of the training and how it helps them in their work.

"The why, simply put, is to give better tools to first responders across the country so they can be more effective in de-escalation. We just want to make everyone safer—law enforcement, civilians, everybody," said David Vilaysing, former Hays Police officer and owner of DXI Training Solutions.

Steven Herold, Transylvania University police chief and former Racine, Wisconsin, officer, said the training allows officers to learn in days what could take years to learn on the streets.

Vilaysing&nbsp;said, "I think that's one of the reasons the instructors in here love this course, because they all have that light bulb moment they can think back on their career—the things they had learned the hard way."

Ryan Rogers, an Oklahoma State trooper, said the training helped him think about how he approached situations and regulate his own responses.

"If I can control myself, it helps a lot," he said.

Vilaysing&nbsp;said, "We preach in every class that the most important factor in de-escalation is an officer's self-control. It's easier said than done.

"We give tools and resources to the students so they actually understand themselves and why they tend to communicate in certain ways. ... Only when we understand ourselves can we begin to understand others. That is the foundation of emotional intelligence," he said.

Vilaysing&nbsp;said people's natural tendency is to treat others as they are treated. The training helps officers adapt their responses, even when faced with disrespect from others.

Herold said that when he entered law enforcement in the 1990s, he was taught to engage suspects at one level higher than they were.&nbsp;

Herold said that while he was working in Wisconsin, he had a citizen complaint lodged against him. He said he didn't violate the law, but he could have heard the person out.

"Had I taken a few more minutes to listen to him on the scene, I probably would have avoided that complaint altogether," he said.

Vilaysing&nbsp;said before he left the Hays Police Department, he was on a call during which the Kansas Highway Patrol chased a man going 130 mph into Hays. The chase ended with the suspect up on a roof.&nbsp;

"It was me and two other officers on the roof that were able to de-escalate that situation, talk to that individual, and get him to come down the ladder of his own accord," he said. "As opposed to getting into a physical confrontation with him on a rooftop or worst case scenario, him jumping off the roof as he had threatened, as soon as we stepped on the roof.

"We prevented a potentially serious injury from happening to that individual because I recognized what was going on and, thanks to this training, what approach needed to be taken,"&nbsp;Vilaysing said.

Rogers, a former Marine, said using force was not a problem for him. He said force can always be an option, and there are situations you won't be able to talk your way out of.

However, de-escalation gives you other techniques and options.

"Here are some things that I can do to keep this from going higher," Rogers said. "It means less paperwork for me, less stress on my job, less stress on people around me."

Rogers gave the example of a driver stopping in the middle of the road during a traffic stop. This is likely to heighten his response, as the driver has put him at risk of being struck by another vehicle during the stop.

"This training has helped me process things a little bit differently," Rogers said. "Normally, I would have probably yelled at them for stopping in the middle of the road. ... Now, I'm giving her a reason why I'm a human and why I lost my cool. Here's why you can't do what you just did."

Vilaysing&nbsp;said all departments and officers, including ICE officers, could benefit from the de-escalation training.

"There are still agencies out there that aren't doing any de-escalation training," he said. "We will get sent to agencies and be told this is the first de-escalation training I've had in a decade. Some of them don't even remember if they had it at the academy. It is very much needed across the country."

However,&nbsp;Vilaysing said nothing works 100% of the time.&nbsp;

"The situation is going to dictate," he said. "When things are that extreme and that out of control, we always say force must be an available option. At the end of the day, police officers are going to go home.&nbsp;

"At no point do we tell a police officer or a first responder to jeopardize their safety or the safety of another person so they can de-escalate," he said.

Rogers, who said he has been through riots as an officer, said the situation in Minneapolis is so heightened that it may be difficult to de-escalate through talk.

Rogers said, "If you are at a level of heightened aggression, if I try to talk to you and reason with you and work some of these avenues that we teach, it's still not going to reach out to you.

"If I'm talking to a person who is of a clear mind, it might work, but most of them are so agitated, they are not listening to rational thought anyway."

Rogers said it helps if both sides can give grace.

"We don't get it right 100% of the time, but we're going through training and offering training so other officers can better themselves," he said.

Officer on de-escalation training: 'We just want to make everyone safer'

Thomas More Prep-Marian Jr./Sr. High School is pleased to announce the 2026 Sweetheart Candidates:

Savannah Waldschmidt and Derek Becker - Savannah is the daughter of Jayme Clark and PJ Waldschmidt,&nbsp; and Derek is the son of &nbsp;Ray and Olivia ‘93 Becker.

Brooklyn Werth and Landon Herrman - Brooklyn is the daughter of Cory ‘00 and Amber Werth, and Landon is the son of Eddie and Ashley Herrman.

Brooke Befort and Easton Werth - Brooke is the daughter of Brad ‘86 and Sarah Befort, and Easton is the son of Kent ‘96 and Shawnda Werth.&nbsp;

Grace Schmeidler and Diego Fernandez-Grace is the daughter of Jarett and Mary Schmeidler, and Diego is the son of Jose and Irasema Fernandez.

Kaitlyn Komarek and Brayden Gilmore - Kaitlyn is the daughter of Chris and Stacey ‘98 York and the late Brian Komarek, and Brayden is the son of Jason and Shayla Werner.

The 2026&nbsp; Sweetheart King and Queen will be crowned at halftime of the boys varsity basketball game on Friday, Feb. 13, in Al Billinger Fieldhouse when the TMP-M Monarchs take on the Phillipsburg Panthers at 7 p.m.

TMP announces 2026 Sweetheart Candidates

Hays' Wild West Festival announced Tuesday night that Lakeview will perform on July 1, the first night of this year's festival.

The festival described the group as "hard-hitting country with a rock edge."

Eve 6 will headline on July 3 with The Band Feel opening at 7:30 p.m.

Connor McCandless will open at 6 p.m. on July 1 and 2, followed on July 2 by Steel Scarecrow at 7:30 p.m. and headliner Jackson Dean at 9:30 p.m.

You can learn more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://wildwestfestival.com/">Wild West Festival on its website</a>&nbsp;or follow it on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/wildwestfestival">Facebook</a>.

Wild West Festival announces day 1 entertainment

Sunflower Electric Power Corporation announced the upcoming retirement of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Davis Rooney, as well as the promotion of longtime team member Jeff Bieker, who will assume the CFO role

Rooney is retiring from Sunflower after 17 years of distinguished service. Bieker will begin serving as vice president and chief financial officer effective February 27, ensuring a seamless transition of responsibilities and continuity of leadership.

“Davis provided steady leadership and sound financial oversight for nearly two decades,” said Steve Epperson, Sunflower president and CEO. “His commitment to fiscal responsibility left a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for his many contributions. I’m also confident in Jeff’s ability to step into this key role. He brings a wealth of experience, deep institutional knowledge, and a strong commitment to Sunflower’s values.

In his new role, Bieker is responsible for overseeing all financial functions, including accounting, budgeting, treasury, and risk management, as well as government and regulatory affairs and the management of strategic projects. As a member of Sunflower’s executive leadership team, the position also plays a critical role in shaping strategies supporting the organization’s long-term financial health and mission.

Since joining Sunflower 12 years ago, Bieker served in several leadership capacities, most recently as treasury services manager. In that position, he played a key role in the planning, management, and direction of Sunflower’s treasury management services, including cash management, corporate credit, debt issuance and borrowing, as well as debt compliance and administration. He has earned the respect of his colleagues for his collaborative leadership style and deep understanding of Sunflower’s financial operations

“I’m honored by the opportunity to serve in this role and to build on the strong foundation Davis established,” Bieker said. “It’s a privilege to work with such a capable and dedicated team, and I look forward to supporting Sunflower’s continued financial strength and mission-driven service.”

A native of Hays, Kan., Bieker holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting. Jeff and his wife, Hayley, reside in Hays with their children, Brooke and Owen. Outside of work, Jeff enjoys golfing and attending his children’s activities

About Sunflower—Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is a regional wholesale power supplier operating a system of solar, wind, natural gas, and coal-based electric generating plants and approximately 2,400 miles of electric transmission infrastructure. The focus of Sunflower’s 400+ workforce is supplying reliable energy at the lowest possible cost to its seven members who serve electric consumers living in central and western Kansas. Visit Sunflower’s website at sunflower.net

Sunflower’s member cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative, Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association, Dodge City; Sunflower Electric Power Corporation Western Cooperative Electric Association, WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Scott City, Kansas. Southern Pioneer Electric Company is also a member of Sunflower

Sunflower announces CFO retirement, promotion

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

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How to submit an obituary to the Hays Post

Please email obituaries to haysobits@eaglemedia.com.

Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;

If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;

If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email <a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a> or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Recent obituaries, how to submit an obituary

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly and&nbsp;the&nbsp;Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) at the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;Department of Commerce announced&nbsp;the recipients of the <a href="https://www.kansascommerce.gov/program/kansas-creative-arts-and-industries-commission-kcaic/governors-arts-awards/2026-governors-arts-award-recipients/">2026 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards</a>&nbsp;at its&nbsp;annual&nbsp;ceremony&nbsp;Monday, February 2,&nbsp;at the Docking State Office&nbsp;Building in Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Among the Legacy winners was Pete Felten, Hays sculptor.&nbsp;

Pete Felten is a 92-year-old (born 1933) limestone sculptor from Hays who has been carving Kansas limestone for nearly 70 years. He first took hammer and chisel in hand in 1957 after serving in the U.S. Navy (1952-1956), where he visited art museums on the east and west coasts and Hawaii. After briefly attending an art league school in New York, he returned to Hays to pursue his career.&nbsp;

His most prominent work includes the eight-foot-tall, approximately 2,000-pound limestone portraits of Amelia Earhart, William Allen White, Arthur Capper, and Dwight Eisenhower that encircle the Kansas Capitol rotunda, installed in 1981. He won the competitive selection process by creating detailed models of each subject. He chose Silverdale limestone from southeastern Kansas for the Capitol work because he believed it to be “the finest Kansas limestone, uniform and excellent for statues.” Notably, he declined to sign the work, explaining “this is Kansas’ work, not mine.”&nbsp;

Ellis County alone contains more than 28 of his limestone sculptures, including well-known figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Buffalo Bill Cody. His first large commissioned piece was a bust of Buffalo Bill Cody at the Hays Public Library (1961). The “Monarch of the Plains” buffalo sculpture at Fort Hays State Historic Site (completed 1967) stands 8 feet high and 10 feet long on an 8-foot base, starting from a 24-ton stone. In 2024, bronze plaques were finally added next to his capitol sculptures to credit him for the work.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwEW_aOoz3A">Watch Video&nbsp;</a>

“Thanks to the dedicated individuals and organizations in our state who make our communities more vibrant, the arts are thriving in Kansas,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“When creativity is supported and encouraged, we strengthen intergenerational relationships, boost economic innovation, and improve community identity.”&nbsp;

These awards celebrate and recognize Kansas artists, organizations, and communities for leadership in improving quality of life in Kansas and encouraging meaningful creative expression through the arts.&nbsp;

“This group of&nbsp;Kansas artists, art administrators,&nbsp;and advocates we are honoring from across the state&nbsp;continue to&nbsp;have&nbsp;significant and positive&nbsp;impacts&nbsp;on our economy&nbsp;and&nbsp;culture,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and&nbsp;Secretary of&nbsp;the Kansas Department of&nbsp;Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“Kansas is&nbsp;fortunate&nbsp;to have such an array of artists&nbsp;who are eager to take their work to the next level, bringing great benefit&nbsp;and pride&nbsp;to the entire state.”&nbsp;

This year, the recipient of the Governor’s Award, which was presented by Governor Kelly to close out the night, is Joe Walsh, a multi-Grammy Award winning musician and Wichita native who has earned global acclaim for his work with the James Gang, the Eagles, and a successful solo career. In addition to his music career, Walsh founded the veterans nonprofit VetsAid in 2017, which has disbursed more than $4 million to veterans’ services charities to date.&nbsp;

“It’s hard to imagine American rock without&nbsp;the&nbsp;guitar solos,&nbsp;flawless songwriting,&nbsp;and the enduring musical career of Joe Walsh,”&nbsp;Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said.&nbsp;“Joe’s passion for music,&nbsp;paired with&nbsp;his generosity and philanthropy,&nbsp;makes him&nbsp;the perfect recipient for such a prestigious award.”&nbsp;

This year’s award categories and recipients are:&nbsp;

Hays sculptor Pete Felten wins 2026 Governor's Arts Legacy Award 

SHERMAN COUNTY —Law enforcement in northwest Kansas are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a drug bust at a home in Goodland.

Just after 6p.m. Tuesday, police executed a narcotics search warrant in the 200 Block of West 11th Street in Goodland, according to a media release.

The officers located illegal narcotics and an improvised explosive device. Police officers and sheriff's deputies secured and maintained the perimeter while additional resources were requested. The Kansas Highway PatrolHazardous Device Unit responded to the scene and safely removed the improvised device without further incident.&nbsp;

One suspect is currently in custody and facing multiple felony charges related to the incident.&nbsp; Police did not release the name of the suspect.

Explosive device seized during drug bust at NW Kansas home

Hays Community Theatre has announced auditions for “The Shady Caper at Golden Acres,” an original comedy written by HCT board member and Hays High School theatre director Bill Gasper.

The action of the play, which is scheduled to take place on Friday and Saturday, April 24 and 25, and 2 p.m. on April 26, takes place in the retirement community of Golden Acres, where residents get tricked into a money-making scam dreamed up by the activities director and her inept boyfriend. In the end, they are caught, but not before a series of twists and turns.

To help people determine if the play is for them, a copy of the script can be found here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iiIe-mAIjZxFVZICy1NTm_wymLZQm5af/view">https://tinyurl.com/Shady-Caper-Golden-Acres-Final</a>

“It’s a fun play that I wrote quite a few years ago,” Gasper said. “When Hays Community Theatre expressed an interest in producing it, I pulled it off the shelf, reworked it, and presented it to a few people to read. It was met with positive reviews, so I’m excited to get things rolling.”

The cast is composed of eight women and six men. Eight people (three men, five women) will play Golden Acre residents. Four people (two men, two women) will play facility employees and the mother of a resident, and two teens (one male and one female) will play the grandchildren of one of the residents.

“With 14 people in the cast, it’s a great opportunity for people to get involved – whether they’ve been a part of productions in the past or want to get involved for the first time,” Gasper said.

Auditions have been scheduled for 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, and Tuesday, Feb. 17. Auditions will consist of a cold read of a short monologue or “sides” provided at auditions. 

Interested actors can sign up for a 10-minute audition time here: <a href="https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/393379640036/false#/invitation">https://signup.com/go/JbOMrDu</a>.

Those with questions are encouraged to contact Gasper at bgasper56@gmail.com

Hays Community Theatre seeks actors for original comedy

What better way to begin celebrating Volga German heritage than around the table? The Ellis County community is invited to launch the sesquicentennial celebration with a series of cooking demonstrations highlighting treasured Volga German food traditions passed down through generations.&nbsp;

The Sesquicentennial Cooking Demo Series will be held on&nbsp;Feb. 4, Feb. 18, and Feb. 25, each beginning at&nbsp;6 p.m.&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Gallery Room at the Hays Public Library.&nbsp;

Food has always been at the heart of Volga German families, with recipes carefully shared, adapted, and loved over time. These demonstrations celebrate those traditions and the stories behind them.&nbsp;

The series begins on&nbsp;Feb. 4&nbsp;with&nbsp;Earl Legleiter, who will share his family’s recipe for&nbsp;Mahogany Cake, a longtime favorite. Recipes will be provided, and yes—there will be samples.&nbsp;

Each session offers a chance to learn, taste, and connect with the rich culinary heritage that helped shape Volga German communities in western Kansas.&nbsp;

All are welcome to attend and take part in this flavorful start to the Sesquicentennial celebration.&nbsp;

For more information, contact the Ellis County Historical Society at 785-628-2624.&nbsp;

Sesquicentennial cooking demos kick off today for Volga German heritage celebration 

Glassman Corporation is seeking an experienced Commercial Sheetmetal Installer to join our growing HVAC &amp; Plumbing team in Hays, KS. 

This position works directly under a Foreman-level leader and plays a critical role in delivering high-quality commercial and light industrial HVAC installations. 

The ideal candidate takes pride in craftsmanship, works efficiently in a team environment, and understands the importance of proper duct installation and insulation.

Position Overview As a Commercial Sheetmetal Installer at Glassman Corporation, you will be responsible for installing HVAC systems in accordance with project plans, codes, and company standards.

This role requires hands-on field experience, attention to detail, and the ability to support the Foreman while maintaining productivity and quality on job sites. Travel is required during the work week.

&nbsp;Key Responsibilities (not limited to):

Build your future with&nbsp; Glassman Corporation!&nbsp; Equal Opportunity Employer Apply today at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.glassmancorp.com/careers">www.glassmancorp.com/careers</a>

NW Kansas man hospitalized after semi overturns

&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

Girl Scouts have always believed that real change happens when people come together with purpose. Our Girl Scouts are learning that giving back is not just an activity, it is a responsibility, a mindset, and a commitment to making our communities stronger.

We are challenging our community to join the cause. Whether through time, resources, mentorship, or simple acts of kindness, every contribution matters. When adults step forward to support service projects, volunteer efforts, and community initiatives, we show our children what leadership truly looks like.

This is more than just helping others with compassion, accountability, and unity. Together, we can create a culture where giving back isn’t just an option but a way of life, where our children see a community that shows up, lifts each other up, and leads with heart.

The Girl Scout Troop 11298 is ready, and so is Little Dillons on Hall Street! We are now asking the community to stand with us.

Girl Scout Troop 11298 of Hays invites the community to give back in a simple yet meaningful way by donating new personal hygiene items while shopping. 

The troop has partnered with High Plains Mental Health Center, specifically the Crisis Intervention Center (CIC), which is scheduled to open in May 2026, to help ensure that individuals aged 18 and older have access to essential hygiene supplies.

Troop members will be stationed at Little Dillons on Hall Street in Hays throughout the weekend of Feb. 6, collecting donations.

 Community members are encouraged to purchase extra items on their way out, such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrushes, or toothpaste. 

Through this effort, Girl Scouts are learning the importance of service and compassion as they work alongside the community to support the future Crisis Intervention Center. The public is encouraged to visit Dillons on Hall Street in Hays to support the new Crisis Intervention Center in our community.

If your organization would like to join Troop 11298’s mission, collaborate on future service projects, or share ideas that can further support the Hays community, the troop welcomes your involvement. 

Together, we can continue to make a lasting difference, one thoughtful act at a time. 

For more information, collaboration opportunities, or to share your ideas, or if your organization has any needs we may be able to support, please contact us at girlscouttroop11298@outlook.com.

Girl Scouts set hygiene item drive this weekend at Little Dillons

Production members needed for 'Annie,' Hays Community Theatre summer musical

This spring, Fort Hays State University’s Career Development Office, in partnership with FHSU departments, will be hosting several career fairs. These events provide students with opportunities to meet numerous potential employers all in one location.

Mark your calendar for the following career fairs:

Health &amp; Wellness Career Fair: Monday, Feb. 9, 10 a.m. - noon, Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union. 35 employers will be on campus to visit with students about opportunities for internships, clinicals, and full-time employment. The fair is aimed at students in the nursing, radiologic technology, medical diagnostic imaging, and health and human performance programs, but all students are invited to attend.

Teacher Exploration &amp; Employment Fair: Tuesday, Feb. 10, 10 a.m. - noon, Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union. Students can meet with representatives from 60 school districts and education co-ops to learn about student teaching and full-time employment opportunities.

Werth College of Science, Technology, &amp; Mathematics Career Fair: Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2-4 p.m., Fort Hays Ballroom, Memorial Union. Employers can register in Handshake through February 19 by using this link:&nbsp; <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0dlDVoWxwchLl2zKh5TbK6-2BtPDsVui5UfDpWFlWXbDCfSDrXo3arTEqIxZF4D70y9ZoQGa1HWjbFravITK2nWYtLkhaGYIRjMYouVwFXoh5RGbAk8IyfPLOEPruIBJM4HMvN82WQHIYoV-2BNaa1c1e6O-2BqwK60KWT77A6zaFHKqXj-2By6rM71ruXAHYaQJPerao5qOzyvEHyoeq2y-2BOaud0DxrasVw4sSMU7KOerW92mZZFD-2BeQzG-2FTdITj9dcn0Xn-2BXAP-2BPyhMiF1ygfSULRTC0Y7Czktrzo1-2FWiTericrTDls1-2Bvhd-2FaGo6n7mIku2jPHrs9mo9YiQoX0EFRGbp-2BBCAY03zbwEFqq8n33rDtk0F40FhiVkNR6trIquQ-2FEsEXW4SMMNrovMkvk9yIZO1NBA6KrnxLnhQQUPCUdiskMk0dajAwmQ9ocRA5dJtq5PbtChfq1XSvZYbmusAXpD2tqPu-2BiD5W79LsMKjeLE4QDvpDtBfLf5UQCcO4APhE-2F0EpHUlDgJmQntuhjdYk1ZkGtH2W-2BIw6FN2VmF3-2BgSRw8i2LnomKizsKSb6D8VFWU4d06S4WbfwzNYCGS5Z1954PT0Eela7fTtm6dYpwV4gDBUMAf7REywhSf2NtMubxY1SsySHjNmIXcy7fWGgaspz9C1E-3DWoUT_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfO6zmPasQMqwlhB8lcoWwenQbM15tWVOqmaAzcEEop-2BrfykV-2Bhq2xmcR7UmxDBcHjXUylOOdUzofnZdK6bhVrut7cwcLXfyEXHPJXMFgzTbqU1MvfWtylAsfXHq1hQxD9kgQKfdffeyDMlgcQf-2Ftn7SF3U7AOf65v2XQmNEX-2B04n3Kzg-2Fy3S1MOvbaYgZLCXSwZuV5H1g127VmDG9L-2BqNzPzcgugSD40fQYvzLjLiK3xBrU5NreEle8J1H5w8BYFbF">https://app.joinhandshake.com/career_fairs/b8ec06b3-00c4-41de-bf06-dba2ae95847d/employer_preview</a>

This career fair is geared toward students in the following academic programs: agriculture, applied technology, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, geosciences, mathematics, and physics. As with the other fairs, students from all programs are welcome to participate.

Freshmen through seniors, as well as graduate students, are encouraged to attend these events to explore career opportunities and make professional connections. Students do not need to register in advance for the career fairs.

To find out more about FHSU career fairs, contact Career Development at 785-628-2460 or careers@fhsu.edu.

FHSU’s Career Development Office announces career fairs for spring 2026

The public is invited to an Ash Wednesday prayer service at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the HaysMed Chapel, 2200 Canterbury Drive.

Chaplain Chad Pritchett said the hospital also offers a non-denominational prayer service from noon to 12:15 p.m. each Wednesday and a Catholic Rosary service from 10:05 to 10:25 a.m. each Thursday, both in the chapel.

The chapel is located on the first floor of the hospital at the north end.

All chapel services are open to visitors, patients, families, hospital employees, and the general public, Pritchett said.

Public invited to Ash Wednesday service at HaysMed Chapel

Women Who Lead to offer free senior meal Thursday

Feb. 2 Morning Mixer - The Hideout, Osborne, 7 am-noon

Feb. 3 Lunch with Us - The Roundhouse, Downs, 11-1:30 PM

Feb. 4 Coffee &amp; Cookies Grant Lab, City Office, Natoma 11-1 - Come learn tips and techniques for writing grants

Feb. 7 Morning Mixer - The Front Porch, Alton, 8:30-10 amFeb. 10 Morning Mixer - VFW, Natoma, 7-9 am

Feb. 11 Coffee &amp; Cookies Grant Lab, Osborne Public Library, 11-1 - Come learn tips and techniques for writing grants

Feb. 13 Trooper Ben "Go and Grow" Event, Osborne High School New Gym, Osborne, 6:30 PM

Feb. 16 Community Soup Supper, Community Center, Portis, 5:30-7:00 PM

Feb. 18 Coffee &amp; Cookies Grant Lab, Roundhouse Coffee, Downs, 11-1

Feb. 23 Morning Mixer, Midway Coop Station, Portis, 8-10 am

February events in Osborne County

Fort Hays Tech | North Central to celebrate opening of construction career center

Washington&nbsp;– On Tuesday, President Trump signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026," into law. The legislation advances several key healthcare priorities long championed by Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall.

“The legislation provides $418 million for rural health, strengthens our healthcare workforce, maintains critical funding for Community Health Centers, and extends telehealth and hospital-at-home flexibilities that Kansans rely on,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“It also invests in maternal and child health, mental health services, and life-saving medical research, while cutting over $100 million in unnecessary HHS bureaucracy.”

Senator Marshall also emphasized that Republicans stepped in to prevent Medicaid spending from continuing on an unsustainable trajectory that threatened the program’s future.&nbsp;

Prior proposals would have allowed unchecked growth, threatening long-term access for the most vulnerable. This package introduces responsible reforms that protect beneficiaries while ensuring Medicaid remains viable for future generations.

“Medicaid was on a path to bust – crowding out care for the truly vulnerable and burdening states and taxpayers,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“Republicans fought to protect this vital safety-net program by improving oversight, targeting resources appropriately, and ensuring Medicaid remains available for those who need it most today and for generations to come.”

Labor, Health and Human Services (L/HHS) Appropriations Highlights

The package provides a&nbsp;discretionary total of $116.6 billion&nbsp;for the Department of Health and Human Services while reducing unnecessary federal bureaucracy by&nbsp;over $100 million.

Senator Marshall championed several of the provisions included in the package. These include:

Health Extenders Package: Strengthening Medicaid and Medicare Medicaid Reforms

The package includes targeted reforms to Medicaid while improving access and accountability:

The legislation delivers long-term certainty for providers and expanded access for seniors by:

Public Health Extenders and Programs

The package extends and strengthens critical public health initiatives, including:

The package includes commonsense reforms to lower prescription drug costs and increase transparency for patients and taxpayers, including:

Senator Marshall delivers healthcare wins for Kansas in FY26 appropriations 

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

TOPEKA — An ongoing battle between the attorney general and Kansas governor about releasing Kansans’ personal data to the federal government made its way to a Tuesday committee hearing on a bill intended to force the governor’s hand.

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb428/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 428</a>&nbsp;requires the secretary of the Department for Children and Families to respond to federal data requests from the U.S. Department of Agriculture of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and release the data within 90 days.&nbsp;

The bill results from the Department for Children and Family’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/09/22/kansas-governors-office-disputes-accuracy-of-kobachs-claims-about-snap-funding/">refusal to share private data&nbsp;</a>of food program applicants and recipients with the USDA, Attorney General Kris Kobach told the Senate Committee on Government Efficiency, or COGE.

“They don’t want the USDA to share the names of (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients with other federal agencies,” Kobach said. “Now, why would they not want that? I’m almost certain they don’t want it to be shared with the Justice Department so that a SNAP recipient who is fraudulently getting this money could be prosecuted.”

Kobach also said the governor didn’t want the data shared because the Department of Homeland Security could use it to identify people in the country illegally who receive food assistance.&nbsp;

People who are legal permanent residents can qualify for SNAP.

Gov. Laura Kelly’s spokeswoman, Olivia Taylor-Puckett, said DCF has concerns about whether USDA’s stated intent on using the data is legal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Governor’s administration has been repeatedly raising concerns about the legality of the USDA’s data request as it pertains to the ‘Routine Use 8′ provision, which includes sharing Kansans’ personal private data, including full Social Security numbers, with foreign entities,” she said in an emailed statement. “It is both disappointing and disturbing that the Attorney General still doesn’t know the basic issues with the USDA’s request.”

Taylor-Puckett’s statement referred to a USDA notice published in the Federal Register that detailed how the data would be used. One section allowed the information to be shared with foreign entities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas is one of 21 states, all of which are participants in a Massachusetts lawsuit, that question whether the USDA’s intended use of the data is allowed in their data sharing contract. The case is still being decided.&nbsp;

Kobach told the committee the state will lose $20.8 million as part of its SNAP program because DCF did not release the data. DCF appealed the penalty so no money has been withheld from state SNAP administrative funds.&nbsp;

A hearing on the state’s appeal will be held Feb. 17, a governor’s office spokesperson said.&nbsp;

Travis Couture-Lovelady, a lobbyist with FGA Action, testified in favor of the bill, citing concerns with the integrity of the SNAP program.&nbsp;

“The goal is simple — reserve benefits for truly needy families and hold the fraudsters accountable,” he said.

Couture-Lovelady said the food assistance program has been “plagued” with improper payments, eligibility errors and fraud, as well as large-scale losses to benefit card theft and hacking schemes.&nbsp;

“In 2024, as the attorney general said, that’s the most recent data we have, Kansas’ SNAP error rate was nearly 10%, meaning roughly one out of every $10 in benefits was issued improperly, and that level of error is completely unacceptable,” he said.&nbsp;

The state’s SNAP error rate is not tied to fraud but instead tracks data entry errors, incomplete or inaccurate applicant information and other problems,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/26/kansas-official-defends-refusal-to-turn-over-private-food-program-data-in-face-of-political-attacks/">according to DCF secretary Laura Howard</a>. Fraud cases are handled through a separate department and aren’t included in the SNAP error rate.&nbsp;

DCF is working to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/22/kansas-agency-working-to-improve-accuracy-of-snap-payments-to-avoid-costly-federal-sanction/">drop the error rate</a>, which was under the 6% federally set threshold in August, at 5.5%.&nbsp;

Haley Kottler, an anti-hunger campaign director with Kansas Appleseed, submitted written testimony opposing the bill.&nbsp;

“This most recent conflict between 21 states and the federal government illustrates the extreme risk Kansas would be taking by enacting SB 428,” she said. “The provisions of this bill would not allow DCF and KDHE to contest federal data requests, despite the potential for serious concerns regarding privacy protection, the burden imposed on state resources and administrators, the misuse of data, liability, and compliance with eventual court decisions.”

She also raised concerns that threats to privacy would deter eligible households from seeking food assistance.&nbsp;

Proposed bill would require Kansas gov. to submit personal food assistance data to feds

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — A man convicted of trying&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-assassination-routh-guilty-c56e9dbdc640cfc377aa2267107697df">to assassinate President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on a Florida golf course in 2024 was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-classified-documents-smith-c66d5ffb7ba86c1b991f95e89bdeba0c">U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon</a>&nbsp;pronounced Ryan Routh’s fate in the same Fort Pierce courtroom that erupted into chaos in September when he tried to stab himself shortly after jurors&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-attempt-d49985a690e678a9ccbf3610c102704d">found him guilty</a>&nbsp;on all counts.

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