By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Protestors gathered Sunday afternoon in Hays, voicing opposition to ICE deportation efforts following the shooting of a&nbsp;Minneapolis woman.

A<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events_invite_off_fb/link_sharing/4516540295296628/?inviter_id=16819363&amp;token=Xi28jlg30kdadUVcKedBQlK0ez-mCwmuptfqMbaCZos&amp;mibextid&amp;__cft__[0]=AZZbzrv45gVwdooUx1M4NNvBhvC-gBtflkyFUdZuZJQICEiCQBumId5kAbtwyaF0DoS7Tupr_W2rB3qZLIyo6kjDEcKLxYNMPZ9wdbZEuoxSAMCPqCPtIddawmC1KAznK97NWSDBzbaHyLLj9rxwVrpywGYr2g4GJPAtffZy1S8wsfHOs4DHy9YJXcCSEkgX8TY&amp;__tn__=H-R"> Facebook event page</a> said the demonstration was organized to oppose cruelty, militarized enforcement and the normalization of violence in communities.

The protest was held in solidarity with events in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where 37-year-old Renee Nicole Macklin Good was shot and killed by a U.S. ICE officer.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/29daa820-ea39-4dfc-82ca-0d9b6c7cda0f">SEE RELATED STORY: Woman killed by ICE agent was mother who had moved from Kansas City to Minneapolis</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/d94d8a86-453f-43fb-b84a-6cc0c66d3b2a">SEE RELATED STORY: ICE officer who shot woman in Minneapolis identified in court records</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/2802ff35-afaa-467d-a385-f53f0869e47f">SEE RELATED STORY: White House releases phone video from ICE agent before fatal shooting</a>

Janae Morton said she attended the protest because she believes the current state of the country calls on people everywhere to take a stand.

"I think in western Kansas, a lot of times we think we're immune to what happens in bigger cities and places across the country, but we're not," Morton said.

Morton described the Minneapolis incident as a murder.

"The federal government murdered a citizen in broad daylight, and they're lying about it. I don't think there's really anything to argue or debate, even if what she did was wrong," she said. "They're federal ICE agents and couldn't detain her. She was a citizen."

Morton said immigration enforcement should be carried out legally and humanely and called for easier pathways to citizenship.

"I don't think ripping people away from their families and throwing them violently out of the only home that most of them have ever known is the right way to handle it," she said.

Allie Baranowski said she attended the rally in support of Rene Good and criticized ICE's deportation tactics.

"They're awful," Baranowski said. "They're taking people out of courtrooms."

She said children are also being picked up at schools.

"They're picking areas where people are going about their normal lives," she said.

Allie Baranowski also criticized ICE for carrying firearms and questioned why agents operate with masks instead of having their faces in open view.

Gary Brinker said he also opposes current deportation practices.

"It's a milestone in what ICE is getting away with and what the federal government is getting away with," Brinker said. "It's one of those points where I hope someday enough people put their foot down to stop it."

Brinker said immigration laws were originally designed to exploit immigrants and that the country benefits from undocumented workers.

"They work for less money, and so we pay lower prices because of them. I think that's one reason prices are going up, because all the people who are replacing [immigrants] want more money, and that's what makes prices go up," he said.

Brinker and Baranowski said they support deporting violent criminals. Morton said it is essential to keep an open mind and avoid being influenced by agendas pushed by either side.

"We need to use common sense. We need to appeal to our own empathy and humanity," she said. "The violence that ICE officers are committing is not right. They need to go through legal channels, do it the appropriate way and not be violent."

📷 Hays residents stand with Minneapolis after ICE agent fatally shoots woman

SENIOR All A Honor Roll Gracie Ball, Elie Brull, Ethan Carroll, Jaren Frickey, Ashlyn Kroeger, Kia Mader, Gus Peine (KAMS), Owen Richards, Carson Schartz, Sienna Schmidt, Kinzie Sunley

A-B Honor Roll Avery Boydston, Payten Burd, Brody Fischer, Leah Reed, Mason Rohleder, Tayler Schmid

JUNIOR All A Honor Roll Madison Birdsong, Jocelyn Eck, Maggie Fitzgerald, Taylor Kohl, Evelyn Merriman, Colton Metzler

A-B Honor Roll Aiden Aschenbrenner, Baylor Born, Braidyn Cox, Cody Cullison, Wyatt Dixson, Jersee Fabrizius, Jacob Luea

SOPHOMORE All A Honor Roll Rylan Aschenbrenner, Dora Bencze, Haylee Comer, Emma Downing, Hannah James, Arien LaDuke, Talon Pyle, Mackinley Rhoden

A-B Honor Roll Asher Haag, Jaxin Howland, Lyla Richards, Trenton Schartz, Journey Swagerty, Westin Vine

FRESHMAN All A Honor Roll Cayson Boydston, Taryn Boydston, Henry Brull

A-B Honor Roll Nora Andrews, Skylynn Begler, Maggie Downing, Emma Flax, Addalyn Haas, Kooper Hankins, Hunter Honas, Beckett Longbine, Colt McCoy, Chevelle Morton, Amethyst Moses, Carter Starns

8th Grade All A Honor Roll Charly Amrein, Brody Armbrister, Lux Bell, Derek Flax, Lona Guffey, Hailey McMillan, Addilyn Priest, Caleb Schield, Myles Vine

A-B Honor Roll Lane Dixson, Presley Eaton, Brandon Gilbert, Jadyn Hann, Brayden Hept, Jonathan Luea, Adalyn Nilhas, Josey Schoenthaler, Lane Shannon, Elijah Wagner

7th Grade All A Honor Roll Judah Albin, Chase Aschenbrenner, Luke James, Brielyn Keller

A-B Honor Roll Gabriel Ball, Kraytyn Blide, Andrew Corbett, Isabelle Fondoble, Brigham Hankins, Jaxon Henman, Katie Hines, Breckyn Honas, Collin Howard, Beckem Jimenez, Graeme Matzke, Clancy McCaffery, Lula McCaffery, Gage Robins, Sophie Seibel, Cade Starns, Maverick Swagerty, Mason Yunker

Ellis High School 2025-2026 semester one honor roll

BUNKER HILL –&nbsp;Smoky Hills PBS is excited to provide live coverage of Governor Laura Kelly’s 2026 State of the State on Tuesday, January 13, at 6:30 p.m. CT.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Join us as Kansas Governor Laura Kelly delivers the annual address, outlining key priorities and initiatives for the year ahead.&nbsp; This special live broadcast will keep you informed about the future direction of Kansas and important legislative topics.

“Providing live coverage of the State of the State is part of our commitment to public service,” said Michael Quade, director of broadcasting at Smoky Hills PBS.&nbsp; “We’re proud to bring Kansans direct access to Governor Laura Kelly’s 2026 State of the State Address, live from the statehouse, so viewers can hear firsthand about the priorities and issues shaping our state.”

Streaming access will also be available on our YouTube channel and Smoky Hills PBS’ Facebook page.&nbsp;Set your notification so you don’t miss this important speech:&nbsp;

YouTube:&nbsp; @SmokyHills PBS –&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://youtube.com/live/2z1hGpld4ok">https://youtube.com/live/2z1hGpld4ok</a>

Gov. Kelly's State of the State address to be on Smoky Hills PBS Jan. 13

<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/news/articles/2026/01/kelly-hills-id3a-partnership-brings-tech-to-farmers.html">By RAFAEL GARCIA</a> K-State News Service

MANHATTAN — In an age where fast-moving, low-flying unmanned drones can spray crops miles away from a base station, Lukas Koch emphasizes that farmers still get their boots dirty.

Drones are simply the next frontier in agricultural technology, Koch said. Decades of advancements in farming technology, techniques, and tools enable one farmer to accomplish work that, less than a century ago, required dozens of people to do.

But it's still a farmer's calloused hands that sort through soil, steer a tractor's wheel or guide a drone's controls, highlighting the need to find the best ways to bring innovations into the hands of farmers.

That's why Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/innovation-and-partnerships/interdisciplinary-institutes/digital-ag-advanced-analytics/">Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics</a>, or ID3A, is partnering with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kellyhills.us/about/">Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems</a>&nbsp;to develop the next generation of precision agriculture alongside those who will implement it.

Kelly Hills, K-State ID3A collaboration builds research, engagement and commercialization

As CEO of Kelly Hills, established in 2024 by Heinen Brothers Agra Services and based in northeast Kansas, Koch has worked to grow the company into a national leader,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kellyhills.us/about/">building connections</a>&nbsp;between the companies and organizations developing cutting-edge precision agriculture technologies and the farmers who can put them to valuable use. "A fantastic place for that to happen is at the university level," said Koch, who is also a 2018 and 2019 K-State alumnus. "A public-private partnership between a company like Kelly Hills and a university like K-State allows for this sandbox where all of this can come together, leveraging the reach of K-State Extension and its research."

Matching the strengths of each organization, the collaboration focuses on three key pillars:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Besides its extensive network of industry connections, Kelly Hills is also a valuable partner for K-State because of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kellyhills.us/test-range/">its nearly 50,000-square-mile test range</a>&nbsp;and experience with the Pyka Pelican 2 — the world's largest autonomous agricultural aircraft and the largest uncrewed aerial system authorized by the FAA for commercial use.

But one of the company's biggest assets is its ability to connect with on-the-ground farmers, said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/McCornack-Brian.html">Brian McCornack</a>, an ID3A director at K-State.

"They're creating a lot of excitement around what they're doing," McCornack said. "They have the ears of the producers in their area, and they're growing excitement beyond that. When you have that kind of excitement and investment from farmers, it makes it easier for us to partner with farmers, listen to their needs and figure out solutions together with them."

Creating an uncrewed aerial systems pipeline

In addition to K-State's expertise in agriculture and unmanned aerial systems, K-State will play a big role in helping Kelly Hills work with the large data sets collected from farmers' lands, said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://bae.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/sharda/">Ajay Sharda</a>, professor of biological and agricultural engineering and an ID3A director.

"We have a diverse range of skillsets, including remote sensing, data analytics, working with large and small machines, and economic responses," said Sharda, who also taught Koch during his time at K-State. "There's a whole team of people, and they're all directly or indirectly involved with ID3A. It's an amazing opportunity for us to put a pin on the map."

Through each of the three pillars, Kelly Hills and K-State will collaborate on innovative ways to scale up the technology and reduce costs.

Farmers juggle a variety of equipment, input and operational costs, and typically aren't looking to spend more, Sharda said. "But they are looking to spend smarter, and this is a perfect spot for us to help make a business case for this technology," Sharda said. 

Long-term, the collaboration will result in resources, tools and education that familiarize, train and encourage farmers and other interested industry partners in the use of uncrewed aerial systems at scale. "When you look at how much agriculture exists within Kansas, it's crucial to have a pipeline of folks who can provide additional support in industry areas like fertility, pest protection or crop monitoring — all those services that help support an industry that is half of Kansas' GDP," McCornack said.

 For Koch, there's a sense of personal satisfaction in working with professors he learned from and appreciated, while also serving a state he loves. Having grown up on a technology-forward farm, he's seen the transformative power of next-generation agricultural technology in Kansas, and he wants Kelly Hills and K-State to unlock that innovation for the world. 

"We're early in it, but with a relationship like this, we can build on K-State's mission to serve people across Kansas and the world as a land-grant university," Koch said. "It's a unique state and position for K-State to be in to do research that benefits farmers across the wide variety of regions in Kansas, and I see a future where we can work together and bring that value back for everyone."

How a K-State partnership will help put cutting-edge drone technology in farmers' hands

<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

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the benefits of business incentives on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcat: Doug Williams discusses benefits of business incentives

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

I thought of this story the other day, and decided it needed telling.

One cold, frosty December morning a couple winters ago, I slowly steered my pickup into the midst of several weathered old hay bales, and stepped out into the crisp, pre-dawn air. 

With the full moon illuminating the landscape like a spotlight and the frost making everything underfoot crunch like cornflakes, slipping in to our deer blind unnoticed this morning would be like trying to slip into the house past Mom when I was a kid and had stayed out past curfew. 

It was the last Saturday of deer rifle season and my heart was not really in it. I gathered my gear and began the short trek that would take me through a stretch of soybean stubble, across a small grassy meadow, down a creek bank and up the other side to the blind. 

To the right of our blind lay a small woodlot that was a popular bedding area for the local deer, so my goal was to slip in quietly and catch early morning browsers as they left the area to feed.

I crossed the stubble field and as I entered the meadow, I began hearing a strange quiet sort of popping sound -&nbsp; kind of like one of those kids' push toys that pops a ping pong ball around inside as its pushed across the floor. 

At first, I thought it was my insulated coveralls rubbing tufts of frosted grass as I walked, but that couldn’t be, because the moonlight was so bright, I could sidestep everything noisy. Or maybe it was just my old arthritic joints cracking and popping like Jiffy Pop popcorn with every step, but I stood still for awhile and the sound still continued. Baffled at what I heard, but figuring I was making who-knows-what kind of noise because of my Bull-in-a-China-Closet syndrome, I strode onward.

I’d taken just a couple more steps when an enormous eruption somewhere in front of me stopped me cold. I instinctively reeled backwards, and starring skyward, found the bright moonlit sky filled with the huge black shapes of wild turkeys, looking for all the world like beach balls with wings as they scattered to the four winds. 

Then it hit me that many times I had heard hen turkeys make that familiar quiet popping sound as they milled around me during turkey hunts. For anyone who has never seen or heard wild turkeys come down from a roost in the morning, it’s about the loudest, most awkward and unscripted event you’ll ever witness, and that’s when they’re not spooked! 

When the dust settled, the moonlight revealed numerous more roosted in the trees all around me. 

I remember starring at all those black shapes in the trees and thinking “This ain't gonna end well,” when, like shots from a Roman candle, every few seconds another group would leave their perches and scatter in a different direction. 

And finally, as if any deer were still left in this part of the township, the last group set sail and glided right through the middle of the very woodlot I’d hoped would produce a deer for me that morning! 

Every fiber of my being told me “Just go back home to bed; you tried but your hunt is surely ruined for the morning,” but I regained my composure, readjusted my now warm wet shorts, and continued on anyway.

Our blind was a trailer with a camper shell on top that had two sliding windows in front. The insides of all the windows were frosted over, which we were used to, but as I tried to slide open the two front windows, I found them frozen shut (well, of course they were.) I found an ice scraper and placing it sideways against one of the windows, I preceded to rap on it with my fist until one-at-a-time both&nbsp;windows broke free and slid open.

&nbsp;As things stood then, any living thing not spooked from the property by the turkey explosion, or rousted from the area by the eerie hulking figure strolling about in the bright moonlight was surely driven from the territory by the sound of a jackhammer being run from inside our hunting blind.

At that point, I might as well have stood on top of the trailer and sung the Star-Spangled Banner at the top of my lungs as the sun came up, or built a roaring fire in the middle of the stubble field and danced around it to the beat of a thousand native drums; it would have made little difference in the outcome of my Saturday morning deer hunt. 

A couple hours later as I walked to the truck, my once-wet shorts now frozen and crunching with every step, I had to take solace that sometimes all the caution in the world just can’t outwit Mother Nature.

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

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Doomed from the start

Heritage Eatery &amp; Bingo is playing a new card with its relocation to the former Hays Senior Center.

Janelle Molkeker, owner of the bingo parlor, said the business relocated to 2450 E. Eighth St. on New Year's Eve after its building on 12th Street was listed for sale.

"I do like the new location. I think it's just a little bit bigger," she said.

The parlor celebrates six years in business this month in its new home, which offers better parking and easier accessibility, especially for older patrons. The building is next to the Rose Garden Banquet Hall.

Bingo is played every Wednesday and Friday, with doors opening at 5 p.m., mini games starting at 6:30 p.m. and the main bingo session beginning at 7 p.m. Cash prizes are determined by attendance and vary by game type, such as blackout bingo.

Molkeker said the parlor offers a family-oriented environment that supports local nonprofits and continues to welcome both longtime regulars and new players.

"I've noticed a lot of young people are starting to come," she said.

Concessions range from burgers and hot dogs to nachos, popcorn, pretzels, candy and occasional Friday night specials like tacos.

A nonprofit organization sponsors each bingo night and serves as a fundraiser rather than solely as a recreational event. Groups interested in participating can call 785-635-3434 for more information.

You can follow The Heritage Eatery &amp; Bingo on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063482861428">Facebook</a>.

Heritage Eatery & Bingo scores big with new location in Hays

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this year’s first Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22.

“The new year is all about new doors opening and new opportunities on the horizon,” Toland said. “And what better way to kickstart your new year than exploring the wide array of fulfilling career opportunities available in Kansas.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2F4fa13887-56f5-4f70-8a8e-15ad40a883d7%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-january-22,-2026/1/0101019b9e565055-72d4cf41-20e4-4c41-9820-f0a8bc7fed66-000000/v50bB3OSjtVIxQCAmWqClvLzUIj5ESUlPUK-Dr4ubFE=439">here</a>.

Commerce hosts first Virtual Job Fair of new year with new opportunities

Join us as we kick off the Hays Concert Series with a special Lovegrass Music Festival fundraiser on March 14 at the Hays Community Theatre!

Tickets are on sale now at <a target="_blank" href="https://lovegrassmusicfestival.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=05689fbd61bb2baeb0642f1e0&amp;id=66906f2319&amp;e=ad2f5727f7">https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/benefit</a>.

This special night will feature two incredible bands who are not only entertaining but also special to Lovegrass —&nbsp;80 Proof Alice&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rudy and the Lost Boys&nbsp;— plus a silent auction, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres, all in support of Lovegrass Music Festival.

Your attendance helps us raise funds for our upcoming summer concert series, continue our mission of bringing bluegrass arts to Rural Kansas, and support our capstone Lovegrass Music Festival this August.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Doors at 6:00 p.m. with the show starting at 7 p.m. at the Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. 8th.&nbsp;

Come enjoy great music, support the arts, and help keep bluegrass thriving in Kansas. We can’t wait to see you there!

Lovegrass Concert Series kicks off in Hays with fundraiser on March 14

By MARK JOSLYN Insight Kansas Political polarization grabs headlines. But it’s not the whole story.&nbsp;

Majorities in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/hiddencommonground/2019/12/05/hidden-common-ground-americans-divided-politics-seek-civility/4282301002/">both</a>&nbsp;parties believe there is more common ground than the news media and political leaders suggest. They report&nbsp;having constructive conversations with those holding opposing political views, and despite differences, say they’ve often worked together to address community challenges. Majorities in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/696494/americans-show-consensus-democracy-related-matters.aspx">both</a>&nbsp;parties also agree on fundamental democratic principles and overwhelmingly&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.electionsafety.org/snapshot-three">oppose</a>&nbsp;election violence. They believe their parties should never tolerate officials who back groups promoting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2025/10/30/what-americans-want-and-expect-from-party-leaders/">violence</a>&nbsp;against the other party.

Majorities in both parties think workers should&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.dataforprogress.org/blog/2024/4/26/voters-think-its-time-to-raise-the-minimum-wage">earn</a>&nbsp;at least the federal minimum wage, that government should&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://navigatorresearch.org/creating-a-nationwide-paid-leave-program-and-bolstering-medicares-negotiating-power-are-overwhelmingly-popular/">establish</a>&nbsp;a national paid family and medical leave program, that companies should&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rff.org/publications/reports/climate-insights-2024-american-climate-policy-opinions/">limit</a>&nbsp;greenhouse gas emissions, that immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://americasvoice.org/press_releases/new-gallup-immigration-polling-americans-remain-strongly-supportive-of-immigration-and-citizenship-want-reform-over-broken-status-quo/">children</a>&nbsp;should have a pathway to citizenship, and that campaign spending should have limits.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2023/09/19/how-americans-view-proposals-to-change-the-political-system/">Supermajorities</a>&nbsp;endorse term and age limits across all three branches of government. They&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/652523/americans-endorse-early-voting-voter-verification.aspx">support</a>&nbsp;photo ID and citizenship verification to vote, alongside measures to make voting more convenient.

Even on issues presented as hopelessly divided, common ground exists. Both&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnorc.org/projects/support-for-legal-abortion-remains-strong/">parties</a>&nbsp;support abortion access when a mother’s health is at risk, when there are lethal fetal abnormalities, or in cases of rape or incest. At the same time, 80 percent of Americans agree that abortion should be illegal in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/321143/americans-stand-abortion.aspx">final</a>&nbsp;trimester.&nbsp;Nine in ten say&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/507230/fewer-say-sex-relations-morally-acceptable.aspx">birth control</a>&nbsp;is morally acceptable and want government to safeguard access to contraception.&nbsp; More than two-thirds say having access to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2024/05/13/americans-overwhelmingly-say-access-to-ivf-is-a-good-thing/#:~:text=An%20April%20Pew%20Research%20Center,%2C%20while%2022%25%20are%20unsure.">in vitro</a>&nbsp;fertilization is a good thing, while majorities of each party favor government&nbsp; protecting access and requiring insurance to cover costs.&nbsp;

Guns produce agreement as well. About 90 percent&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/04/Fox_April-21-24-2023_Cross-Tabs_April-27-Release.pdf">favor</a>&nbsp;requiring criminal background checks on all gun buyers. Both parties favor background checks at private gun shows,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/220637/americans-widely-support-tighter-regulations-gun-sales.aspx">support</a>&nbsp;a 30-day waiting period after purchase, raising the legal buying age, and confiscating guns from people deemed a danger to themselves and others. And when&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/1645/guns.aspx#:~:text=This%20is%20consistent%20with%20the,kept%20as%20they%20are%20now.">asked</a>&nbsp;whether handgun possession should be banned by law, 80 percent said no.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fhsu.edu/docking/Kansas-Speaks/2025-kansas-speaks-report_final-10-27-20251.pdf">Polls</a>&nbsp;show similar cross-party agreement in Kansas. Majorities in both parties back Medicaid expansion, legal marijuana, and higher taxes on cigarettes and alcohol. They agree that women, not politicians, should make their own choices about abortion, and that legal migrants fuel economic growth.

Kansans agree on affordable childcare, saying it strengthens the economy, removes a major barrier to women’s progress, and deserves federal action to expand access.&nbsp;Both sides favor increasing the state's minimum wage and consider postsecondary education a wise investment for students and the state.&nbsp; 

These examples reveal a very different story than the headlines.&nbsp;The story is about connection and collaboration, not conflict and cancellation.&nbsp;This new year offers a chance to embrace that story and rediscover the common ground in our politics.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Dr. Mark Joslynis a professor of political science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

Insight Kansas: Rediscovering common ground

Thank you for your continued patience and cooperation as we work to make drop-off and pick-up as smooth and safe as possible.

Morning Drop-Off: Please continue using both lanes.

Inside lane (next to the school): You may drop your student off anywhere along the sidewalk, even past the raised crosswalk and all the way to the north end of the building. The more vehicles that pull forward, the quicker the line moves.

Outside lane: For safety reasons, students should exit only at the raised concrete area by the stop sign.We also ask that you continue entering from Hays Way to reduce congestion at 13th &amp; Canterbury. With both lanes in front of HMS being used, we saw a noticeable improvement this morning, and this should continue to help traffic move efficiently.

Thank you again for your patience, flexibility, and support as everyone adjusts to this system. We truly appreciate you.

Hays Middle School offers traffic update

SCHEDULE CHANGE: Tonight’s varsity high school basketball games vs. Sacred Heart will begin at 5 p.m.. The girls' varsity game will tip off at 5 p.m., followed by the boys' varsity game. JV/C games will not be played.

TMP basketball schedule change for tonight

&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

The annual Hays Holy Family Elementary School Chili Supper &amp; Bazaar will be held Sunday, January 25, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the school, 1800 Milner.&nbsp;

The event includes a book fair, bingo, game room, cake walk, Feed the Pig, raffle and silent auction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Chili Supper &amp; Bazaar is one of the largest fundraisers held to support Holy Family Elementary School every year. Each dollar raised directly affects our educational efforts for the 380+ students in our school as well as helps us maintain a safe environment for our students, staff, and visitors.

Silent auction items are still being sought for donation. For more information call Kelsey Konz at 785-410-8668.

Holy Family Elementary annual Chili Supper, Bazaar Jan. 25

Thank you for your patience and cooperation with drop-off and pick-up. We know the past few days have been frustrating, and we truly appreciate your flexibility as we continue working to make the process smoother. Today was already better, and we expect things to keep improving.

Morning Drop-Off (Drop-Off Only): To help traffic move more quickly, please use both lanes, even though they are not marked. ( We will get lanes marked when weather improves.)Inside lane (next to the school): You may drop off your student anywhere along the lane. Students can walk on the sidewalk to the gym commons entrance.Outside lane: Please pull up to the crosswalk area with the stop signs before letting your student out.Using both lanes consistently will help speed up the entire drop-off process.

Afternoon Pick-Up: To keep traffic flowing and ensure student safety:Please do not park and wait in the inside lane. If your student isn’t ready, pull into the parking lot or loop back around.The outside lane must remain a through lane. Students should not enter vehicles from the outside lane for safety reasons.

Crossing 13th Street: If your student walks home and needs to cross 13th, please remind them to use one of the two designated crosswalks and press the crossing button. This keeps traffic moving safely and protects students from dangerous crossings.Thank you again for your understanding, patience, and support as we work through these improvements. We truly appreciate you.Go Indians!

Hays Middle School offers direction on new student pick up, drop off

'The Feast' fundraiser for Codell Community Church Feb. 7

Logan, KS — The Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program is delighted to welcome certified Bob Ross instructor Hope Blakely of Arvada, Colorado, for two Magic of Painting classes on January 24 &amp; 25. On Saturday, January 24th, participants will paint Old Castle, and on Sunday, January 25th, Mystic Waterfall. Both classes will take place in the Hansen Museum Community Room, located at 110 W. Main Street in Logan, Kansas, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, with a one-hour lunch break.

These classes offer a fun, beginner-friendly introduction to painting. Students will be guided step-by-step through the process of completing a finished painting each day. No prior experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Participants need only bring a roll of paper towels. Open to individuals aged 13 and older, these sessions provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere that fosters creativity and camaraderie.

Registration is available online at www.hansenmuseum.org under the “Classes &amp; Camps” section. Discounts are offered to Patron and Sustaining Members of the Hansen Museum. These classes are part of the Hansen Museum Continuing Education Program and are made possible through generous support from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, call 785-689-4846.

The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 4:00, Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and 1:00 to 5:00, and Sundays and holidays from 1:00 to 5:00. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The facility is handicap-accessible, and thanks to the support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, admission is always free.

Upcoming beginner-friendly painting class at Hansen Museum

BUNKER HILL – Smoky Hills PBS is excited to announce that the 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest is now officially open for entries. The annual contest encourages creativity and imagination by inviting children in 1st through 5th grade to submit their very own original stories.

This year introduces a new contest requirement: every story must include a zoo theme. Whether it’s a daring adventure, a silly animal tale, or a heartwarming zoo friendship, young writers are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild.

“At Smoky Hills PBS, we love celebrating the creativity and imagination of young writers across our region," said Betsy Schwien, general manager of Smoky Hills PBS. "The PBS KIDS Writers Contest is a wonderful opportunity for students in 1st through 5th grade to explore storytelling, share their unique voices, and maybe even see their work featured on television. We can’t wait to read all the amazing zoo-themed stories this year!"

Students may submit stories individually, and teachers are also welcome to submit multiple entries on behalf of their classrooms. Printable entry forms are available at <a href="https://www.smokyhillspbs.org/kids/pbs-kids-writers-contest/">SmokyHillsPBS.org</a>, and completed forms and stories can be emailed to writerscontest@shptv.org.

All entries must be received by February 23, 2026.

Winners will receive prizes and be recognized in May 2026, during the annual Smoky Hills PBS Awards Show, where selected stories will be featured on TV.

The PBS KIDS Writers Contest continues to be a fun and educational opportunity for children to strengthen their writing skills, express themselves creatively, and share their ideas with the community.

Thank you to <a href="https://www.messer-us.com/">Messer: Gases for Life</a> and the Beach Family Foundation for making this year’s 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest possible.

Smoky Hills PBS announces 2026 PBS KIDS Writers Contest

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal Reserve Chair&nbsp;<a href="https://google.com/search?q=apnews+">Jerome Powell</a>&nbsp;said Sunday the Department of Justice has served the central bank with subpoenas and threatened it with a criminal indictment over his testimony about the Fed's building renovations.

The move represents an unprecedented escalation in President Donald Trump's battle with the Fed, an independent agency he has repeatedly attacked for not cutting its key interest rate as quickly as Trump prefers. The subpoena relates to his testimony before the Senate Banking Committee in June, Powell said, regarding the Fed's $2.5 billion renovation of two office buildings, a project that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-powell-federal-reserve-building-renovation-2393d9ac9fdb9508f285d0faa5f4de41">Trump criticized as excessive</a>&nbsp;this summer.

In a video statement, Powell said the threat of criminal charges are “pretexts” to undermine the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-powell-trump-independence-5c2ec1a37dc4aca6a59544f8b4513a45">Fed's independence</a>&nbsp;when it comes to setting interest rates.

“This is about whether the Fed will be able to continue to set interest rates based on evidence and economic conditions—or whether instead monetary policy will be directed by political pressure or intimidation,” Powell said.

The Justice Department in a statement Sunday said it can’t comment on any particular case, but added that Attorney General Pam Bondi “has instructed her US Attorneys to prioritize investigating any abuse of tax payer dollars.”

A spokesperson for U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s office didn’t immediately respond Sunday to a text message and phone call seeking comment.

The potential indictment has already drawn concern from one Republican senator, who said he’ll oppose any future nominee to the central bank, including any replacement for Powell, until “this legal matter is fully resolved.”

“If there were any remaining doubt whether advisers within the Trump Administration are actively pushing to end the independence of the Federal Reserve, there should now be none,” said North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis, who sits on the Banking Committee, which oversees Fed nominations. “It is now the independence and credibility of the Department of Justice that are in question.”

🎥Fed Chair responds to Trump DOJ investigation, indictment threat

SEDGWICK COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 7p.m. Sunday in Sedgwick County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Honda Accord driven by Tim S. Martin, 74, Maize,&nbsp;was eastbound on Kansas 96 just east of West Street in the westbound lane. The car struck a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Halie M&nbsp;Weese, 25, Hutchinson, and&nbsp; a 2013 Toyota Camry driven by William L&nbsp;Chesbro, 34,&nbsp;Alamogordo, New Mexico.&nbsp; A 2021 GMC Yukon driven by Dwayne C. Doyle, 39, Wichita, then&nbsp;T-boned the Honda.

Martin was pronounced dead at the scene. Weese, Chesbro and Doyle were not transported for treatment. Two children in the Yukon had minor injuries. Martin was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dead in wrong-way, 4-vehicle crash

KANSAS CITY—One person was injured in a fire on Saturday in Kansas City.

Just after 5:30p.m., crews&nbsp;responded to an automatic alarm in the 3000 block of Benton Boulevard, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

On arrival crews discovered a water flow alarm was sounding and found an apartment with a sprinkler activation. Companies forced entry to the apartment and discovered the apartment full of smoke with an active sprinkler. The fire had been controlled by the sprinkler system. The occupant, an elderly woman was treated on scene and transported with burn injuries. 

The sprinkler system was secured and the smoke evacuated. No fire supression activities were needed by KCFD, the sprinkler system worked appropriately. The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KCFD: Elderly woman hospitalized after apartment fire

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —A series of recent drug arrests lead to taking methamphetamine and fentanyl off the streets in southeast Kansas.

On January 7, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a maroon Mercury Grand Marquis at the intersection of 10th Street and Walnut Street in Independence, Kansas, according to Sheriff Ron Wade.

Deputies contacted the driver, identified as Breeanna Conrad of Independence, Kansas, and informed her of the reason for the stop. Deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle. During the search, deputies located more than six (6) grams of methamphetamine, a small amount of cocaine, marijuana, multiple pills, and drug paraphernalia. 

Conrad was taken into custody and transported to the Montgomery County Department of Corrections, where she was booked on the following charges:• Distribution of methamphetamine• Possession of cocaine• Possession of marijuana• No proof of vehicle insurance• Improper emerging from an alley, private roadway, or building.

Later on January 3, 2026, deputies conducted a traffic stop on a Saturn passenger vehicle at the exit ramp from U.S. 400 to U.S. 75 Highway, north of Sycamore, Kansas. The vehicle was occupied by three individuals. Deputies contacted the driver, identified as Heather Leach of Independence, Kansas, and informed her of the reason for the stop.

 Deputies developed probable cause to search the vehicle.D uring the search, deputies located more than nine (9) grams of methamphetamine, more than six (6) grams of suspected carfentanil, pills, and drug paraphernalia. Leach, along with Tyler Norton and Noah Daniel, both of Independence, Kansas, were taken into custody.

All three were transported to the Montgomery County Department of Corrections and booked on the following charges:Heather Leach• Distribution of fentanyl• Possession of methamphetamine• Possession of drug paraphernalia• Failure to stop or yield at a stop sign• No proof of vehicle insuranceTyler Norton• Distribution of fentanyl• Possession of methamphetamine• Possession of drug paraphernaliaNoah Daniel• Possession of methamphetamine• Possession of a depressant• Possession of drug paraphernalia

Sheriff: Carfentanil seized during Kansas drug bust

JOHNSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday in Johnson County.

Deputies responded to the area of Edgerton Road and 167th Street&nbsp; following an iPhone crash notification and an additional 911 call reporting a vehicle in a ditch, according to the Johnson County Sheriff's office.

First responders located the vehicle with significant damage and one occupant, a driver later identified as 36-year-old Bailey Boswell of Meriden, unresponsive inside the vehicle. Johnson County MED-ACT responded and attempted life-saving measures.&nbsp; Boswell was pronounced deceased at 3:58 p.m.&nbsp; The accident remains under investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this crash is asked to contact the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office at 913-715-5400.

Kansas woman dies after vehicle crash into a ditch

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man is going to prison for the murder of his mother at her Kansas home in 2023.

On Friday, Judge Jeffrey Goering sentenced 24-year-old Devin Joel to life in prison without the possibility of parole for 25 years, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Last year, Joel pleaded guilty to first degree murder, kidnapping and robbery in the 2023 murder.

In May of 2023, police were dispatched to report of a&nbsp; clubbing in the area of 5700 E. Central in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders located the victim identified 46-year-old Kacey Joel of Wichita, laying in the back yard of a residence with visible injuries.

Officers immediately rendered aid and she was transported to a local area hospital. She sustained significant trauma to her body and later died from her injuries, according to Gupilan.

Eyewitnesses reported that her son, 21-year-old Devin Joel, who lived in California at the time of the crime, was seen running from the scene. Officers quickly were able to locate him after a brief foot pursuit. He made comments that he was going to die by suicide by cop and was yielding a knife when officers confronted him.

 The officers were able to get him to put the knife down and he was taken into custody without incident.&nbsp;

Prison for killing his mother at her home in Kansas 

WASHINGTON (AP) —'Melania' the movie is set for a January 29, Kennedy Center debut.

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