By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

What happens when a holiday show becomes the only hope to keep a theater alive? Hays Community Theatre explores that high-stakes tale in its newest production.

Cheryl Glassman, writer and director,&nbsp; said the original play is a “show within a show” that follows a cast working under pressure to keep their theater from closing.

"It follows the pursuits of the Gretchen, the director, and the entire cast," Glassman said. "Characters provide comedy, sentimental structure and share candid life moments."

Tickets are available <a href="https://www.hctks.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawOevpJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFpak8xaTZLY0gyMTZ0Wm1Vc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHhDb6VAT-kkc2DPaKeaKpGbF1n09Z8C4zmF3QZ47Fu313ueYsrgsjo_dNALX_aem_vBiwfKo3bijOfbf1sLi9Aw">online</a>&nbsp;and at the door for $10, with attendees asked to bring a nonperishable food item to support local food banks through the Ellis County Ministerial Alliance. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 2 p.m. Saturday at 121 E. Eighth St.

A bake sale at the theater will also raise funds for the family of Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heinmann, who was recently killed in the line of duty, and to the Lohrmeyer family, who recently lost their home in a fire.

Glassman said the production includes 26 performers,  including 13 children, some of whom are first-time actors. 

Glassman said she drew inspiration from her own theater experience and the many personalities she has worked with behind the scenes while creating productions.

"There's an interesting woman named Marvel, portrayed by Wendy Richmeier, and no one likes her at all. She thinks she's better than the rest of the cast," Glassman said. "I have dealt with people like that in real life before."

The cast includes Claire Nickerson as Gretchen, Gene Stramel as Miles, Kelsey Robben as Mary, Adam Conkey as Marty and Jeremy McGuire as Joe.

Glassman said the stage will feature 3D backdrop elements, including a built-in couch and Christmas tree. While props will be limited to keep attention on the actors, audiences can expect festive costumes throughout the show.

Glassman said she hopes audiences leave with a reminder to look beyond difficult times.&nbsp;

"It's OK to be frustrated, but being frustrated doesn't mean you have to stay there. You never really know what's going on around you until you open up and look at the big picture... seeing past yourself and knowing that there is a lot more to life than meets the eye," she said.

Glassman said the production will also feature some original songs she wrote and seven dancers from Spotlight Studios dance school in Hays. Auditions began in October with rehearsals starting after Halloween.&nbsp;

You can follow Hays Community Theatre on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hayscommunitytheatre">Facebook</a>.

Hays Community Theatre presents 'A Down Home Christmas' tonight through Saturday

The United Way of Ellis County announced today the appointment of Janelle VanKooten as its new executive director.

VanKooten officially assumed the role in mid-November, bringing almost two decades of nonprofit leadership and community systems experience to the organization.

VanKooten steps into the position at a pivotal time, ready to continue the United Way's mission of mobilizing resources to help families thrive and strengthen the Ellis County community.

“I am honored to join the United Way of Ellis County,” VanKooten said. “This community has a remarkable spirit of collaboration and generosity. I’m excited to work alongside our partners and supporters to mobilize the resources needed to help families thrive and strengthen our community.”

VanKooten’s background includes 18 years of experience in nonprofit work and leadership in community systems work, making her a strong leader for the organization’s future endeavors.

The United Way would also like to extend its deepest gratitude to Bill Ring, who served as interim director during the past six months during the agency's search for a permanent executive director.

Ring's dedication, leadership and hard work have been invaluable in guiding the organization and supporting the Ellis County community during this period of transition.

The United Way of Ellis County also announces its new board of directors leadership, who will guide the organization's strategic vision alongside the new executive director:

· Vice President: Jason Werner (Nex-Tech Wireless)

· Past President: Jaden Richardson (Bank of Hays)

This new leadership team, along with the entire board, is committed more than ever to the mission and success of the United Way, which has continued to impact and support Ellis County for more than 70 years. The United Way remains dedicated to investing in local programs that deliver measurable results and create lasting change.

Save the Date: Dueling Pianos fundraiser event

To support these vital community efforts, the United Way of Ellis County is excited to announce its upcoming major fundraiser—Dueling Pianos event. As its largest annual fundraiser and a staple event for the organization, this evening plays a crucial role in helping the agency advance its mission and serve the Ellis County community.

· Where: Unrein Building at the Ellis County fairgrounds

· Purpose: To raise essential funds that allow the United Way to invest in local nonprofit partners and community initiatives.

Mark your calendars for an evening of music, fun,and fundraising to benefit the Ellis County community. If you or your business is interested in sponsorship opportunities for this event, reach out to Janelle VanKooten, executive director, at director@liveunited.us for more information. Ticket details and a link will be released soon.

For more than 70 years, the United Way of Ellis County has worked to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community to advance the common good. It does this by focusing on education, income and health—the building blocks for a good quality of life. To learn more about the agency's impact, ways to donate and how to get involved, visit <a href="http://www.liveunited.us">www.liveunited.us</a>.

United Way of Ellis County names new executive director, board leadership

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two people have been charged in the death of a 17-year-old Plainville teen on Jan. 12.

Walter V. Lowry II, 40, of Stockton, has been charged with felony aggravated endangerment of a child and interference with a law enforcement officer, according to court records.

According to court documents, Lowry allegedly left the teen, who was allegedly intoxicated, on a county road in the middle of the night. The documents said the temperatures were between 32 and 24 degrees, and the child was wearing minimal clothing.

The child died as a result of hypothermia, according to court records.

The court documents said&nbsp;Lowry also allegedly gave false information to Rooks County Deputy Salvador Ramirez during his investigation of the case.

An arrest warrant was issued for Lowry on Nov. 19.

Lowry is being held on $20,000 bond. He made his first appearance in court on Nov. 25 and was assigned a court-appointed attorney.

A status conference has yet to be set in Lowry's case, according to court records.

Serena Marie Barnhill, 41, Natoma, is being charged with one count of&nbsp;felony aggravated endangerment of a child. She also allegedly was involved in the incident in which the Painville teen was left on a county road in the middle of the night in freezing temperatures.

She was arrested on Nov. 25 and posted a $20,000 bond,&nbsp;according to court records.

Barnhill is set to make a bond appearance before Judge Curtis Brown at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 14.

2 arrested in hypothermia death of Plainville teen

The Ellis County unemployment numbers for September dropped almost a half a point from August from 3.4% to 3%.

Ellis County's jobless rate is almost a point below the state average.

The release of the unemployment data was delayed because of the federal government shutdown.

Graham and Lane Counties had jobless rates of 4.1%, but the rest of the northwest Kansas counties all have unemployment rates below 4%.

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% statewide in September. 

This is unchanged from 3.8% in August and unchanged from 3.8% in September 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas increased to 67.1% in September.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 300 from August. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 2,000 over the month, while government increased by 1,700. The largest job gains in the private sector were in&nbsp;financial activities&nbsp;(+600 jobs). The largest decrease was in professional and business services&nbsp;(-2,300 jobs).

Since September 2024, Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have decreased by 1,700. This change is due to a decrease of 2,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 800 government jobs.

Technical Note: This release includes nonfarm jobs and labor force estimates for September 2025, which are produced using data from two monthly surveys. Data for nonfarm job estimates is collected through a survey of employers, while the main input for labor force estimates is a survey of households. Data collected for this report references the week including Sept. 12.

Ellis County unemployment rate falls in September

FHSU daily crime log: Dec. 5-11, 2025

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.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

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

HaysMed proudly announces that Kaylyn Bustillos, RN, an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nurse, has been honored with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. 

Kaylyn works at the heart of critical care, where every second counts. Her role involves caring for patients with life-threatening conditions, managing complex treatments, monitoring vital signs, and responding to emergencies with precision and calm. Beyond her clinical work, Kaylyn provides reassurance and compassion to patients and families during some of their most challenging moments, a true example of nursing excellence.

The DAISY Award is a national program that honors nurses who go above and beyond in delivering outstanding care. At HaysMed, nominations are blindly judged by a panel, ensuring winners are chosen based solely on the heartfelt stories shared by patients and families.

One family member who nominated Kaylyn wrote:

“We came to the ICU after carotid artery surgery. My husband had come out of surgery ok, but a bit later started convulsion-like activity. She was our nurse and unbelievably controlled the room with a very calm, patient, and brilliant demeanor. She later was so compassionate, empathetic and kind. I was so impressed how intelligent she was and how knowledgeable she was!

"This facility is so very fortunate to have her in this critical care unit!

"She is so very deserving of recognition for her dedication and passion she puts forward, I’m sure on a regular basis. Congratulations for being the fortunate hospital to have her on your team!”

This marks the second DAISY Award Kaylyn has received, a testament to her consistent excellence and compassionate care. 

Joben Rieth, vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer, shared:

“Winning one DAISY Award is an incredible achievement, but earning a second truly speaks to Kaylyn’s commitment to her patients and her profession. She exemplifies what nursing is all about, skill, compassion, and advocacy. We are proud to have her on our team.”

Kaylyn, along with all DAISY Award honorees, receives a special DAISY pin as a daily reminder of how much her caring efforts are appreciated by patients, families, and colleagues.

To nominate a nurse or team at HaysMed for the DAISY Award, visit: <a href="https://www.haysmed.com/daisy-nomination-form/">https://www.haysmed.com/daisy-nomination-form/</a>

The DAISY Foundation was established in memory of Patrick Barnes in 2000 to honor the extraordinary care nurses provide every day. HaysMed is proud to be a DAISY Award Partner, recognizing nurses who make a lasting impact on patients and families.

HaysMed nurse wins DAISY Award for second time

The 16th annual Community Christmas Dinner will be held on Christmas Day, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the VFW in&nbsp;Hays, located at 22nd &amp; Vine.&nbsp;

The meal will consist of roast beef, ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, a dinner roll, dessert, and&nbsp;is free of charge. 

Donations received will be used to cover expenses and any extra will be given to area organizations that serve and assist residents, in an effort to 'give back' all that has been given.&nbsp;

The Community Christmas Dinner began with the vision to bring the community together for a Christmas meal, and to return to the true reason for the season - the remembrance and celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas can quickly become overshadowed by the busyness that tends to arise with the holiday season, and focus loss regarding the true meaning. 

The Community Christmas Dinner offers a time to refocus on the birth of Christ, provides the opportunity for community members to serve/be served, and simply enjoy each other's company. Though Jesus is celebrated all are welcome regardless of personal beliefs.

&nbsp;Service also extends beyond the walls of the VFW through the delivery of meals to those who are homebound.&nbsp;The Community Christmas Dinner stands upon the scripture that “Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8), and has continued to be an example of this kind of love throughout the years.

Volunteer opportunities will be available on Christmas Day prior to the meal, during the meal, and after. Some of the opportunities include decorating, directing traffic, preparing to-go boxes for delivery, filling drinks, clearing tables, delivering meals, washing dishes, cleaning after the event, and other miscellaneous tasks that arise.&nbsp;

Desserts for the meal are provided by community members, and these remain needed at this time.&nbsp;

For anyone who is homebound and would like a meal delivered, or if wishing to volunteer, provide desserts, or make a donation, please use the following contact information: 785-625-5528 through December 18 and 785-675-1344 December 19 - December 24 or&nbsp;

email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com">communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com</a>

<a href="mailto:communitychristmasdinner@gmail.com"></a>Thank you to the VFW, New Life Center, and Northwestern Printers,&nbsp; as well as all the volunteers who help make this celebration possible.&nbsp; &nbsp;

All invited to Community Christmas Dinner at Hays VFW; volunteers sought

I know some might think, heavens no, December doesn’t need another holiday. After all, it has Christmas and New Year’s Eve, but those living in deer country need to make opening day of firearms deer season the kind of holiday that frees kids from school and employees from work. Even for those who don’t hunt, advantages exist.

For families that put wholesome meat on the table the old-fashioned way, the first Wednesday in December is a red-letter calendar date. It signals opportunities for every licensed hunter in the house to provide pure, unadulterated protein for loved ones. Diners who eat venison harvested in the wild consume meat produced by natural diets. Protein in this form is low in fat so it’s better for folks whose docs have told them to cut back on marbled beef.

Family hunts build bonds between spouses and among parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren. Spending time on a frosty morning waiting to see a healthy buck or doe pass forms memories and stories that liven up family gatherings for decades. The meat in the freezer may be long gone, but tales of making difficult shots or recovering a deer from a field far from the road make great fireside tales year after year.

Not only do such events create family legends, they enable experienced outdoors folk to teach patience, observational skills, and respect for nature and gifts it provides. Youngsters too young to carry a gun learn to sit quietly while waiting for game to come into range. Every hunt includes lessons from studying wind patterns to discovering how still and silent a person can be when a skunk wanders near the blind.

Once a successful hunt ends, family bonding and learning continue as youngsters help prepare for the butchering. Much of my understanding of anatomy occurred as I helped first my dad then my husband cut up deer meat. Helping field dress a fresh carcass made high school biology dissections seem easier. These experiences gave me an appreciation for where protein comes that helps me better understand when I buy shrink-wrapped packages from a grocery store meat case.

For non-hunters and vegetarians, reducing deer populations through controlled harvests lead to safer driving. In addition, managing populations improves herd health. Too many critters occupying an area not only makes driving dangerous, it also means more depredation on crops and native plants. A pitiful sight for any who have experienced it is a sick herd. In regions where residents discourage hunting, disease whittles populations in only a few seasons.

While the idea of an official holiday is tongue in cheek, I love hearing stories from families that make this day and the rest of the season an annual event. Not only do these folks reduce deer populations that make driving to work a game of real-life pinball with the car as the flicker and the deer as the puck, but they also strengthen family bonds, provide healthy protein, and teach respect for nature

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Add another December holiday

<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

The chilly fall weather is here, and you know winter will be on its way— warm up your vehicle this winter with a REMOTE START PACKAGE from XIBIT CUSTOMS, the remote start headquarters in HAYS.

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Ask about the drone capabilities that allow you to start, unlock and even locate your car right from your smartphone.

And are you looking for a perfect gift?!!!! Grill guards, bumpers, LED light kits, along with fender flares, lift kits, wheels and tires and MORE...Weathertech Floor Mats, heated seats, new stereo and speakers.

IT'S ALL AVAILABLE NOW AT XIBIT CUSTOMS, JUST SOUTH OFF 1-70, 1005 E. 27th&nbsp;St, IN HAYS.

Call them today for an appointment! (785) 621-4340&nbsp;

Students soliciting food donations; bring items to Hays High Chamber Singers concert Monday

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/c3hays?__cft__[0]=AZaMpMNvM4hYyTcLoTpQdTAUrxg35SK-Mj8l-rSDkwbUUz-cFU_4bfmc1TB49Pq5knF8l6Yp_u-QfNBqfaxN5QJoiquQx5v2JIufjWIqgzfgbq2n0Te6J3KX7hH8qaSW6duj_MQAq4cyl0qb9tEd4gJ7QRlIquS_qZ6QHI7yMePSZA&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Celebration Community Church</a>&nbsp;invites you to view Celebration Community Church’s first Christmas light show at 5790 230th Ave., Hays.

The display will be programmed to run in 30-minute intervals each day, with the exception of a few Wednesday evenings, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. from now until Christmas.

 To enjoy the choreographed music, tune your FM radio to 98.5. In addition, the church invites you to its Christmas Eve services at 1, 2:30 or 4 p.m.

Celebration Community Church in Hays offers free light display

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County is seeking donations during this giving season to support affordable housing projects in Ellis County.

Funds donated to the Ellis County chapter stay in Ellis County.

You can send donations to Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County at PO Box 444, Hays, KS 67601.

Also, come by the Habitat for Humanity ReStore at 2707 Broadway in Hays and shop. All proceeds also help those in need of a nice place to live and flourish.

The ReStore is open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Saturday.

Habitat for Humanity of Ellis County seeks donations to provide affordable housing

&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

Karen Thomason is retiring from Hays Area Children's Center after 37 years.

 Her retirement celebration here at is at Hays Area Children's Center, 94 Lewis Drive, Friday, December 12, 3-7 p.m.

Thomason to retire after 37 years at Hays Area Children's Center; reception Friday

McKenna Youth Center Open House Dec. 14 with Shopapalooza, free movie

Get ready for a sound that fills the season with cheer! TubaChristmas, the beloved annual concert featuring musicians on tuba, euphonium, and baritone horns, is set to bring its joyful, brassy melodies to Big Creek Crossing at 3 p.m. Dec. 14.

This festive event, a national tradition since 1974, celebrates the holiday spirit by gathering local players of all ages and skill levels to perform classic Christmas carols. From seasoned professionals to enthusiastic beginners, the concert showcases the rich, resonant sounds of these low brass instruments in a unique and heartwarming display.

The Hays Tuba Christmas group will be performing at the Big Creek Crossing Mall at 3 p.m. Dec. 14. Twenty-five to 30 tuba and baritone players participate in this event every year. Hays is one of many international TubaChristmas concerts held annually. Jim Tanis is the coordinator for the event. Traditional Christmas Carols will be presented at this 45-minute concert. Low brass players from area high schools, colleges as well as adults participate in this ensemble.

Our group is under the leadership of Peter Lillpopp, the director of bands at Fort Hays State University. At FHSU, he directs the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Winds, Hays City Band, and the FHSU Tiger Marching Band. He also teaches the Low Brass Studio and directs the Low Brass Choir.

This concert is free and open to the public.

If you would like to join us in the performance, contact Peter or Jim Also, see <a href="http://www.tubachristmas.com">www.tubachristmas.com</a> for details

Attendees can expect a lively performance of holiday favorites, often with participants adorned in festive attire, creating a truly memorable experience for the whole family. The event is free and open to the public, inviting everyone to enjoy the booming brass that signals the start of the holiday season.

Event Details: · What: Hays Kansas TubaChristmas Concert · When:&nbsp; 3 p.m. Dec. 14 · Where: Big Creek Crossing Mall · Cost: Free admission ·Who: Tubas, euphoniums and baritone players of all ages

Call for Musicians: Musicians interested in participating in the ensemble are encouraged to come early, starting at 12:30 p.m., to register with a practice session after.

Join us for a joyous celebration of music and community as we make the holidays bigger, brighter and brassier!

Hays to host annual TubaChristmas Concert: A booming holiday tradition returns

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Fort Hays State University will recognize approximately 981 graduates for the fall commencement on Friday (in person) and Saturday, Dec. 12-13, for the virtual ceremonies.

Graduates who have chosen to participate in person will be honored in two ceremonies on Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum (GMC). All graduates will be recognized in two virtual ceremonies on Saturday.

The ceremonies will begin at 8:30 a.m. (central time) on Friday for undergraduate and master’s candidates in the Robbins College of Business and Entrepreneurship, the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and the Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics.

The 11 a.m. ceremony will be held for the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences and the College of Education, honoring undergraduate, master’s, and Ed.S. candidates.

Saturday’s virtual ceremonies will begin at 2 p.m. for the Ed.S. and master’s students. The undergraduate virtual ceremony will follow at 4 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All ceremonies – in-person and virtual – will be broadcast on the Tiger Media Network (<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0aUTrZUkCBF5-2Bwz-2F2-2FlggJ2tC25tLyyU758yaYV0K7ynpi6-2FB-2F0T0nosQeX9aa5b8Q-3D-3DXoSu_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOTStA1TVXnUTL-2FN4IihJRlpFvH4-2FanCy6lV6Ruf9aJvbAi22Auv-2Bw8aFwIrRb-2BIle-2FGdCqLckaTvUimYc-2Bw8zprL8noPkpRRTbTSEUxp9EO9NiivC9QhHl0fRqbTXDXiSzWmaaBp41i-2B9Kn7DwFzAWRfunfVxUvPA83JAwzoiYogC0pCp3xZR3ZDDHMXR1eDWUDIeuKP-2F4leZ3SL0-2B8S2zazgMaQXYdo6sKBMphm8Lt5pVbPazYryZnUkuc8scRF6">https://www.youtube.com/@TigerMediaNetwork</a>)

The in-person commencement ceremonies will be broadcast live at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0aUTrZUkCBF5-2Bwz-2F2-2FlggJ2tC25tLyyU758yaYV0K7ynpi6-2FB-2F0T0nosQeX9aa5b8Q-3D-3DEyr__1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOTStA1TVXnUTL-2FN4IihJRlpFvH4-2FanCy6lV6Ruf9aJvbAi22Auv-2Bw8aFwIrRb-2BIle-2FGdCqLckaTvUimYc-2Bw8zpofLy5lZhI4-2BwvxqTszfaKOp-2BZHXJXtgT-2F99qvTHTuBTWr8zLoQSIrsup4IGOBGjUg44G-2FVwXiS0G4rAdGeWuY93bSfrHE4dMTGu4tHghfMpVt8guUkuhv7QOrywzIhtzuNgXVed4ov42qaPnynAx3AglouAQaIBUm4q8078No-2FJ">https://www.youtube.com/@TigerMediaNetwork</a>.

The commencement schedule, maps, directions, links to accommodations in Hays, and general information can be found at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0cdeTry58ih-2F0ByFBW-2FXzaO2dfEgAhUEeT4iu401VQSaRs_3_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOTStA1TVXnUTL-2FN4IihJRlpFvH4-2FanCy6lV6Ruf9aJvbAi22Auv-2Bw8aFwIrRb-2BIle-2FGdCqLckaTvUimYc-2Bw8zpk5ylbdtLiMpk9hcF-2Bj3WNCEy2taTkiT4sNIpzIxh2yaYz1Gjwo93V-2BxMQZ-2F-2BS0IRNbiKvp1rmfBRgdcWN38sQQ1XoRd-2Bpe-2BMr7XlUldWJYIZi4yTv2rrcdojvcuQIAH-2B59hfubkecCWAO36jvA1OTj-2BEPLP70jFXNbr482HbEEk">www.fhsu.edu/commencement/</a>.

FHSU fall commencement set for Dec. 12, 13

RENO COUNTY — A former Reno County substitute teacher accused of multiple sex crimes involving students has pleaded guilty to reduced charges&nbsp;in Reno County District Court.&nbsp;.&nbsp;

Whitney Shull, 39, a former substitute teacher for Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309, had initially been charged with unlawful sexual relations,&nbsp;attempted&nbsp;unlawful sexual relations, aggravated sexual battery, and two counts of hosting minors consuming alcohol.&nbsp;

According to court&nbsp;documents&nbsp;the&nbsp;allegations stem from incidents that occurred in Reno County between Jan. 31 and Feb. 1&nbsp;of&nbsp;this year&nbsp;involving three teens. Prosecutors alleged Shull engaged in sexual acts with two minors,&nbsp;one consensual and one non-consensual when the alleged victim was&nbsp;unconscious and&nbsp;attempted&nbsp;to force a third teen into a sex act.&nbsp;

Sedgwick County District Attorney spokesperson Lyndsee Stover,&nbsp;confirmed that&nbsp;Shull entered a plea&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;afternoon to five amended misdemeanor charges:&nbsp;

Judge&nbsp;Daniel Gilligan&nbsp;imposed a&nbsp;six-month jail term for each count, with the sentences for counts one, two and three which were ordered to run consecutively, resulting in a controlling sentence of&nbsp;18 months. Shull was granted&nbsp;at least two years of probation, contingent upon her successful completion of treatment at Prairie View.&nbsp;

Under Kansas law, Shull must&nbsp;register as a sex offender for 15 years&nbsp;as a result of&nbsp;the convictions.&nbsp;

Stover noted that the plea agreement included an acknowledgment that under Kansas sentencing guidelines,&nbsp;three adult convictions of class A person misdemeanors count as one adult conviction for criminal-history purposes, per K.S.A. 21-6811(a).&nbsp;

Plea deal: Former Kan. teacher must register as a sex offender

PROVO, Utah (AP) — The Utah man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-suspect-things-to-know-dcde3f792f4d6636d44fb9f4fa53569c">killing Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;made his first in-person court appearance Thursday as his attorneys pushed to further limit media access in the high-profile criminal case.

Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem, just a few miles north of the Provo courthouse. They plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-court-death-penalty-f541df08a936e06497ee2342296bc398">seek the death penalty</a>.

Robinson, 22, arrived amid heavy security, shackled at the waist, wrists and ankles and wearing a dress shirt, tie and slacks.

He smiled at family members sitting in the front row of the courtroom, where his mother teared up after he entered the court. Next to her were Robinson’s brother and father, who took notes throughout the hearing.

Early in the proceedings, state District Court Judge Tony Graf briefly stopped livestreaming of the hearing via a media pool and required the camera be moved, after Robinson's attorneys said the stream showed the defendant's shackles in violation of a courtroom order.

Graf said he would terminate future broadcasts if there were further violations of the order issued in October, which bars media from showing images of Robinson in restraints or anywhere in the courtroom except sitting at the defense table.

“This court takes this very seriously. While the court believes in openness and transparency, it needs to be balanced with the constitutional rights of all parties in this case,” Graf said.

Graf is weighing the public’s right to know details about Robinson's case against his attorneys’ concerns that the swarm of media attention could interfere with a fair trial.

Robinson’s legal team and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office have asked Judge Tony Graf to ban cameras in the courtroom, but he has not yet ruled on the request.

The defendant had previously appeared before the court via video or audio feed from jail.

A coalition of national and local news organizations, including The Associated Press, is fighting to preserve media access in the case.

Graf held a closed hearing on Oct. 24 in which attorneys discussed Robinson's courtroom attire and security protocols. Under a subsequent ruling by the judge, Robinson is allowed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-tyler-robinson-court-hearing-489ee127c80553ff8e0ed35ef951f11a">wear street clothes</a>&nbsp;during pretrial hearings but must be physically restrained due to security concerns.

Graf also prohibited media from filming or photographing Robinson's restraints after his attorneys argued widespread images of him shackled and in jail clothing could prejudice future jurors.

Several university students who witnessed Kirk’s assassination attended Thursday's hearing.

Zack Reese, a Utah Valley University student and “big Charlie Kirk fan,” said he had skepticism about Robinson’s arrest and came to the hearing seeking answers. Reese has family in southwestern Utah, where the Robinsons are from, and said he believes they're a good family.

Brigham Young University student William Brown, who said he was about 10 feet from Kirk when he was shot, said he felt overwhelmed seeing Robinson walk into the courtroom Thursday.

“I witnessed a huge event, and my brain is still trying to make sense of it,” Brown said. “I feel like being here helps it feel more real than surreal.”

Michael Judd, an attorney for the media coalition, has urged Graf to let the news organizations weigh in on any future requests for closed hearings or other limitations.

The media presence at Utah hearings is already limited, with judges often designating one photographer and one videographer to document a hearing and share their images with other news organizations. Additional journalists can typically attend to listen and take notes, as can members of the public.

Judd wrote in recent filings that an open court “safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process” while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which he argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters as they work to keep the public informed.

Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, has called for full transparency, saying, “We deserve to have cameras in there.” Her husband was an ally of President Donald Trump who worked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-turning-point-trump-cf2a68e4303c5628299ffe383d09c1e9">steer young voters toward conservatism</a>.

Robinson's legal team says his pretrial publicity reaches as far as the White House, with Trump announcing soon after Robinson’s arrest, “With a high degree of certainty, we have him,” and “I hope he gets the death penalty.”

Defense attorney Kathy Nester has raised concern that digitally altered versions of Robinson's initial court photo have spread widely, creating misinformation about the case. Some altered images show Robinson crying or having an outburst in court, which did not happen.

 Man accused of killing Charlie Kirk appears in court for 1st time

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Thursday rejected legislation to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits, essentially guaranteeing that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/affordable-care-act-enrollment-subsidies-health-90ad8b27a6693c5aa03a9ca841048479">millions of Americans</a>&nbsp;will see&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-affordable-care-act-senate-vote-e143b36cc01b4d7f27a1c07e17d1583c">a steep rise in costs</a>&nbsp;at the beginning of the year.

Senators rejected a Democratic bill to extend the subsidies for three years and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-health-care-insurance-premiums-ee6ccda9ea9df4a8e5a0af351e65afd4">a Republican alternative</a>&nbsp;that would have created new health savings accounts — an unceremonious end to a monthslong effort by Democrats to prevent the COVID-19-era subsidies from expiring on Jan. 1.

Ahead of the votes, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York warned Republicans that if they did not vote to extend the tax credits, "there won’t be another chance to act,” before premiums rise for many people who buy insurance off the ACA marketplaces.

“Let's avert a disaster,” Schumer said. “The American people are watching.”

Republicans have argued that Affordable Care Act plans are too expensive and need to be overhauled. The health savings accounts in the GOP bill would give money directly to consumers instead of to insurance companies, an idea that has been echoed by President Donald Trump.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said ahead of the vote that a simple extension of the subsidies is “an attempt to disguise the real impact of Obamacare's spiraling health care costs.”

But Democrats immediately rejected the GOP plan, saying that the accounts wouldn't be enough to cover costs for most consumers.

The dueling Senate votes are the latest political messaging exercise in a Congress that has operated almost entirely on partisan terms, as Republicans pushed through a massive tax and spending cuts bill this summer using budget maneuvers that eliminated the need for Democratic votes. In September, Republicans tweaked Senate rules to push past a Democratic blockade of all of Trump’s nominees.

The Senate voted 51-48 not to move forward on the Democratic bill, with four Republicans -- Maine Sen. Susan Collins, Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley and Alaska Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan -- voting with Democrats. The legislation needed 60 votes to proceed, as did the Republican bill, which was also blocked on a 51-48 vote. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the Democrat bill and in favor of the GOP legislation.

Some Republicans have pushed their colleagues to extend the credits, including Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who said they should vote for a short-term extension so they can find agreement on the issue next year. “It’s too complicated and too difficult to get done in the limited time that we have left,” Tillis said Wednesday.

But there appeared to be little interest in compromise. Despite the potential for bipartisan agreement, Republicans and Democrats have never engaged in meaningful or high-level negotiations on a solution, even after a small group of centrist Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-update-80ef7cada7b3c0559aca38886efd8f90">struck a deal with Republicans</a>&nbsp;last month to end the 43-day&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;in exchange for a vote on extending the ACA subsidies. Most Democratic lawmakers opposed the move as many Republicans made clear that they wanted the tax credits to expire.

Still, the deal raised hopes for bipartisan compromise on health care. But that quickly faded with a lack of any real bipartisan talks.

The votes were also the latest failed salvo in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-health-care-subsidies-obamacare-congress-10b2ae9648bc5252fc2bd485ddc83493">the debate over the Affordable Care Act</a>, President Barack Obama’s signature law that Democrats passed along party lines in 2010 to expand access to insurance coverage.

Republicans have tried unsuccessfully since then to repeal or overhaul the law, arguing that health care is still too expensive. But they have struggled to find an alternative. In the meantime, Democrats have made the policy a central political issue in several elections, betting that the millions of people who buy health care on the government marketplaces want to keep their coverage.

“When people’s monthly payments spike next year, they’ll know it was Republicans that made it happen,” Schumer said in November, while making clear that Democrats would not seek compromise.

Even if they view it as a political win, the failed votes are a loss for Democrats who demanded an extension of the benefits as they forced a government shutdown for six weeks in October and November — and for the millions of people facing premium increases on Jan. 1.

Maine Sen. Angus King, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, said the group tried to negotiate with Republicans after the shutdown ended. But, he said,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-premiums-congress-subsidies-shutdown-aca-6e2e705d229ea003f19aad72994db0e1">the talks became unproductive</a>&nbsp;when Republicans demanded language adding new limits for abortion coverage that were a “red line” for Democrats. He said Republicans were going to “own these increases.”

A plethora of plans, but little agreement

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