By SUZANNE KING <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/02/17/missouri-kansas-employer-health-insurance-costs/">The Beacon</a>

A new report found that nearly 10% of median household income in Missouri and Kansas goes toward deductibles and premiums. At that level, economists say those households are underinsured.

Health care costs are rising in Missouri and Kansas, especially for workers who get coverage through their employers.&nbsp;

In both states, families who get their health care through work are paying nearly 10% of their annual income toward health insurance premiums and deductibles, a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2026/is-employer-coverage-affordable-how-states-stack-up">report</a>&nbsp;from the Commonwealth Fund found.&nbsp;

In Missouri, the cost of premiums and deductibles combined ate up 9.6% of a family’s household income when they were enrolled in health insurance through their employer in 2024. In Kansas, 9.9% of household income went toward premiums and deductible costs, the report found.&nbsp;

“What does affordable mean?” said Timothy McBride, a professor and health economist at Washington University in St. Louis. “We don’t have a real clear answer for that, but 10% (of household income) gets kicked around a lot.”&nbsp;

“It’s pretty mind-boggling when health care costs are hitting it across most of the country,” McBride said.&nbsp;

In 19 states, families were paying 10% or more of median household income toward those health care costs throughout 2024.&nbsp;

For individuals enrolled in health care through their employers, 26 states, including Kansas and Missouri, saw employees paying 5% or more of their annual income toward out-of-pocket health care costs.&nbsp;

In Missouri, deductibles for single coverage were 5.4% of the median household income, while in Kansas, deductibles were 5.5%.&nbsp;

“If you’re spending 5% of your annual household income on your health insurance deductible, I could see the argument being made that you’re underinsured,” said Linda Sheppard, a senior analyst and strategy team leader at the Kansas Health Institute. “Because that is just a huge financial burden.”&nbsp;

“If your annual plan, and your deductible, is high enough that it’s taking out that much of a chunk of your household income every year, you run the risk of people … not going to get that service or that care, because I know I’m going to end up having to pay that bill,” Sheppard said.&nbsp;

How do Missouri and Kansas stack up on health insurance affordability

Even in Missouri and Kansas, where premiums aren’t as high as in other states, residents are sitting right at the threshold of affordability.&nbsp;

Overall, the states are following the trend of increasingly expensive health care across the country, said Kristen Kolb, a research associate at the Commonwealth Fund. And that’s before factoring in the cost employers are paying for that care.&nbsp;

“That’s only a fraction of what the total cost for this coverage is,” Kolb said.&nbsp;

In 2024, health care spending in the U.S. reached $5.3 trillion and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2025.01683">increased 7.2% from 2023</a>. That was following a previous increase of 7.4% from 2022 to 2023. Health care spending during those years outpaced overall economic growth — making up 18% of the share of economic activity in 2024.&nbsp;

That comes after a handful of slow years of spending on health care following the COVID pandemic.&nbsp;

“When health care costs are going up that high, you’re going to see it reflected in premiums,” McBride said.&nbsp;

A higher share of patients with chronic disease, increased pharmaceutical spending and a lack of competition throughout the market are major factors driving costs higher.&nbsp;

“Health care marketplaces and insurers that have less competition tend to have higher costs and premium growth,” McBride said. “If you have dominant health systems that can charge prices without getting a lot of pushback, that’s not generally that good.”&nbsp;

For the most part, insurers can pass along those rising costs to consumers. In this case, employers are feeling the pinch from all sides as health care costs and spending continue to rise.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For larger employers, it’s generally easier to try and keep employees from paying those higher costs. Still, as health care costs outpace wage growth, the costs will ultimately get passed along again from employers to employees.&nbsp;

“These costs continue to rise for employees because companies are just trying to share more of their costs,” Sheppard said. “There aren’t really a whole lot of other options. If you’re the employer, you raise what your employees are paying, and you try to reduce the richness of your benefits or your plan.”&nbsp;

“You’re going to see that number continue to edge up of what individuals and families are having to pay out of pocket for their health care,” Sheppard said. “I don’t see that as changing, because the cost of care continues to rise over time.”&nbsp;

Missouri, Kansas families pay nearly 10% of their income on employer-provided health insurance

Jeff Leiker speaks with Jessica Phelan, Fort Hays State University assistant Professor of health promotion and fitness, about blue zones, areas around the world where people live to be 100 years old or more, on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

Post Podcast: Blue Zones: Living to 100

By RORY MOORE FHSU University Communications&nbsp;

At Fort Hays State University, support means meeting students where they are - and helping them thrive from there. For neurodivergent students, that support can make all the difference.

Through Health and Wellness Services and Student Accessibility Services, Fort Hays provides individualized accommodations, one-on-one guidance, and a growing peer community designed to help students succeed both academically and personally. One of those spaces is Tigers Without Limits, an inclusive support group open to students who want to build communication skills, connect with others, and feel understood.

The group offers a relaxed, welcoming environment where students can share experiences, practice social skills, and form friendships with peers who understand similar challenges.

“We really aim to make sure it’s inclusive for neurodivergent students,” said Madison Boydson, accessibility graduate assistant. “We want it to be a place where they feel safe and supported. Our goal is to make their journey at Fort Hays easier and more directed toward them, whether that’s academically, socially, or personally.”

Students begin by meeting with staff to discuss their challenges and goals.&nbsp; From there, the team works one-on-one to build tailored plans that may include testing accommodations, structured schedules, study strategies, or regular check-ins. Boydson said the individualized approach is one of Fort Hays’ biggest strengths.&nbsp;

“With us being a smaller university, we really get to know our students,” she said. “We can sit down with them, listen to what life looks like for them, and figure out what’s actually going to help. Bigger universities might not always have the time or staff to give that level of attention.”

For Amanda Wagner, a senior marketing major diagnosed with autism and ADHD, those resources have been transformative.&nbsp;

“The Health and Wellness Center has helped me tremendously,” Wagner said. “I come in regularly to update my accommodations and talk through what I need, and they’re always willing to listen. This group has helped me realize I’m not the only one on campus going through these things.”

As a nontraditional student returning to college years later, Wagner says the difference is clear.&nbsp;

“When I first went to college years ago, these conversations weren’t happening,” she said. “If resources existed, they weren’t advertised. Here, it’s different. It’s part of the culture. People care, and they want you to succeed. Without accommodations, I would really be struggling right now, so I owe a lot of my education to this department.”

Stacy Cole, a graduate student in clinical psychology diagnosed with ADHD and PTSD, echoed that sentiment. She credits Fort Hays’ smaller class sizes and accessible faculty with helping her succeed.&nbsp;

“My biggest class was about 30 students, and that made such a difference,” Cole said. “It’s easier to ask questions, talk with professors, and actually feel supported. The campus is very open about accessibility, too. They make sure students know help is available, and they genuinely want you to be the best you can be.”

For Cole, that sense of support goes beyond academics.&nbsp;

“Knowing there’s a place you can go where people understand you - where you don’t have to explain yourself or feel different - that changes everything,” she said. “It makes you feel like you belong here, and when you feel like you belong, you can actually focus on succeeding.”

Tigers Without Limits meets every Thursday on the third floor of the Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. For more information or to request accommodations, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0bMzzt3YK8oT1ueE-2BtvqNZlsw0mBho9YKpWWspJp031DItjWaZKHDSYAr-2FAzobfeHx0BESDW7P0fhPGuao7AlIg-3DNqHJ_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOOhjgbru6MBs2k6W8Z-2B6IAiyHng86PYKrmMn8IHxGn-2Ftx-2Fj9-2Bq8KoNOUQXuXMqKrn0mIytpBsvSlsfbwJlsrDhF-2FpOmM-2Fx1EUMHi1uHb0qfN-2B09l5vwY8aqFI2ZNBISjhEJxaA-2FIYjB-2Blbx1BQtwQKvPBw871CysPFrzbpIxtjB-2FCaR-2BWdYCoBZmX2IYkUtJNri5Xr-2Bu1DpMlhrKu1OkkPgbN7F1jc63YI2foyXfR2pki69s3TmI-2FHBLpP7wKsW00">https://www.fhsu.edu/health-and-wellness/accessibility/</a>.&nbsp;

Tigers Without Limits support group helps neurodivergent students succeed

THOMAS COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Freightliner semi driven by Harry&nbsp;Bhardwaj, 34, Lawrenceville, Georgia, was&nbsp; eastbound on Interstate 70 five miles west of U.S. 83. The semi struck the left rear trailer of an eastbound 2017 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp;Jacobo S.&nbsp;Guzman Huizel, 56, Greeley, Colorado, who was traveling&nbsp;approximately 60 mph. After impact,&nbsp; the 2017 Freightliner came to rest blocking both eastbound lanes of the Interstate.

EMS transported Bhardwaj to the&nbsp; Logan County Hospital. Huizel was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Eastbound Interstate 70 is closed between Colby and Oakley due to a vehicle crash blocking the roadway, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

This is a developing story. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Eastbound I-70 now open between Colby and Oakley after injury crash

This was a very busy week on the floor of the Kansas House of Representatives. Turnaround Week saw the House debate and vote on approximately 125 bills. Detailed below is a sample of ten from those worked, split between the first and second pages.

· First up is House Bill (HB) 2615. This legislation would redesignate a portion of US highway 75 in Montgomery County Kansas, near Dearing, as the Brigadier General George H. Wark Memorial Highway; HB 2615 was voted out favorably by the House and is now in the Senate Committee on Transportation;

· Second is Senate Bill (SB) 281, or more accurately called House Substitute for Senate Bill 281. This bill would mandate prohibition of personal electronic communication devices during school hours in any state accredited elementary or secondary school for students in Kansas, as well as restrict social media contact between school employees and students and set liability for electronic devices in schools. House Substitute for Senate Bill 281 was voted out favorably and will now go into conference;

· Third is HB 2412. This piece of legislation would increase penalties for crimes which involve endangering a child under the age of 18, raising them from class A person misdemeanors to varying severity level felonies, with a maximum of severity level five, for aggravated endangerment with bodily harm for a child less than six years old. HB 2412 was voted out of the House favorably but has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Fourth is HB 2220. This bill would expand the potential minimum speed limit set by local authorities for residential areas to 25 miles per hour, from the current 30 miles per hour. HB 2220 was voted out favorably by the House but has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Fifth is HB 2591. This legislation would enable financial institutions to establish trusted contact programs, which report suspected financial exploitation, and allow for temporary delays of suspected transactions for up to 10 business days if reported to law enforcement or the Kansas Department for Children &amp; Families. HB 2591 was voted out favorably but has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Sixth is HB 2647. This bill would create a Statewide Conduit System for fiber optic transmissions of broadband connections, establish the Kansas Broadband Revolving Fund with the State Treasury to maintain it, set a schedule of fees charged to entities installing or using the fiber optic system, and mandate reporting on the system from the Department of Transportation to the Govenor and the Legislature. HB 2647 was voted out favorably but has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Seventh is HB 2509. This legislation would add advance practice registered nurses (APRNs) to the list of health care providers participating in the Health Care Stabilization Fund and create a new member seat on the Board of Governors for the Health Care Stabilization Fund, to be held by an APRN. HB 2509 was voted out favorably by the House and has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Eighth is HB 2520. This bill would raise the maximum capacity of Home Plus facilities, a type of nursing home, from twelve occupants to sixteen and require facilities that expand beyond twelve occupants to develop care and contingency plans, reviewable by state agencies. HB 2520 was voted out favorably by the House but has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Ninth is HB 2522. This piece of legislation would permit vehicles engaged in highway construction and maintenance operations to display flashing, rotating, or oscillating lights in amber, green, or white color, alone or in combination. It would also extend the same permission to stationary trailers within a road construction zone closed to traffic from sunset to sunrise, so long as construction workers are present. HB 2522 was voted out favorably by the House but has not been referred to a Senate Committee;

· Last is HB 2626. This bill would expand eligibility in the Veteran’s preference in Government Employment Program in the state to certain members of the Kansas National Guard and US Military Reserves. HB 2626 was voted out favorably by the House but has not yet been referred to a Senate Committee.

TURNAROUND, LEGISLATIVE COFFEES, &amp; MORE

House Appropriations (HAPP) was not that busy this week, but I was since it is Turnaround Week. 

Turnaround Week is the deadline for both chambers of the Kansas State Legislature to consider non-exempt bills, bills not introduced within exempt committees, that originated within said chambers. That meant many hours on the House Floor deliberating and voting on nearly 125 bills. 

Also, this week, I had the pleasure of hosting pages from Ellsworth and recognizing the Ellsworth Women’s Tennis Team for winning the 3-2-1A Title this school year, a first in their history, on Tuesday in the House Chamber. 

I would also like to note two legislative coffees scheduled for this coming Saturday. The first will be at 10:00 AM at the Cross-Eyed Cricket in Smith Center and the second will be held at the Hideout Coffeehouse in Osborne at 2:00 PM.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home: Cell phone ban in schools, crimes against children

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

The Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program (HAPp) recently kicked off with a strong start, bringing community members together to learn practical ways to improve heart health and better manage blood pressure. 

The first session featured a special presentation by Dr. Travis Haneke, cardiologist, who shared valuable insight into hypertension, its risks, and the importance of early prevention and consistent management. Participants gained a clearer understanding of how high blood pressure affects the body and why even small lifestyle changes can make a meaningful difference over time.

Dr. Haneke emphasized that hypertension is often called the “silent killer” because many individuals do not experience noticeable symptoms. 

Without regular monitoring, high blood pressure can quietly increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, and other serious health concerns. He encouraged attendees to know their numbers, monitor blood pressure regularly, and work toward gradual improvements through nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and medication when prescribed.

In addition to Dr. Haneke’s presentation, the program introduced participants to the supportive structure of the Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program. 

The program is designed to provide ongoing education, practical tools, and encouragement to help individuals take control of their health in realistic and sustainable ways. Participants will continue learning about heart-healthy habits, including reducing sodium intake, improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, and building routines that support long-term success.

While the program is already underway, there is still time for community members to join.

 Upcoming nutrition workshops will cover key topics such as healthy fats, reducing excess sodium, cooking with herbs and spices, and practical strategies for making healthier choices when eating out. These sessions include interactive discussions, food demonstrations, and simple tips that can be applied immediately at home. 

Individuals are welcome to participate in the workshops on their own or choose to enhance their experience through personalized health coaching.

Health coaching provides participants with one-on-one support, goal setting, and accountability throughout the program. Coaches work alongside participants to create realistic action plans tailored to individual needs, helping them stay motivated and make steady progress. This added support can be especially helpful for those who want guidance in building new habits, improving nutrition, or managing blood pressure more confidently.&nbsp;

Karissa Frasier, Community Health Worker, will coach participants in Ellis County and Monique Koerner, Family and Community Wellness Agent, will coach participants in Barton County.

As an added incentive, participants who enroll in health coaching will receive a free validated home blood pressure monitor. Having a reliable cuff at home allows individuals to track their blood pressure regularly, better understand patterns, and share accurate readings with healthcare providers. Regular monitoring is one of the most effective tools for managing hypertension and preventing complications.

The Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program continues to welcome new participants in Barton and Ellis Counties who are ready to take positive steps toward better health. 

Whether attending nutrition workshops alone or also participating in health coaching, individuals will gain practical knowledge, useful tools, and supportive encouragement along the way. 

Small, consistent changes—like improving nutrition, monitoring blood pressure, and building healthier routines—can lead to lasting improvements in heart health and overall well-being.

If you have any questions or would like to enroll you can call the office at 785-628-9430 or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Hypertension Awareness, Prevention Program continues

<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

Credit Union of America expands to Hays with Thursday opening

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays received 1 inch of snow on Saturday, according to the K-State Ag Research Center.

That accounts for .1 inches of moisture. For the month, Hays has received .28 inches of moisture, bringing the year-to-date total to 1.62 inches.

Hays receives an average of .78 inches of moisture in February and 1.19 inches by the end of the month.

Ellis County and the surrounding counties are under an elevated fire risk today, according to the National Weather Service.

Other affected counties include&nbsp;Trego, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman,&nbsp;Pawnee, Stafford, Stanton, Grant, Haskell, Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa,&nbsp;Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber.

The high in Hays today is forecast to be 51, with highs in the 70s and 60s Tuesday through Friday.

The forecast calls for a 50% chance for rain on Wednesday night.

Hays receives snow Saturday; elevated fire risk today

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will consider a renovation contract for Felten Elementary School during its 6:30 meeting tonight at the Rockwell Administration Building.

The board will consider updating existing service agreements for HVAC preventive maintenance with Glassman Corp. The amendments proposed include HVAC equipment that was previously under warranty.

The board will review contract extensions for district administrators, such as principals, superintendents and the district directors.

The board will also hear a report from Superintendent Ron Wilson and an update on Early Childhood Connections.

You can see the full agenda <a href="https://usd489.community.highbond.com/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=359">here</a>.

Hays USD 489 to consider renovation contract for Felten Elementary School

The items are arriving fast and furious for the Eagle On-Line Auction at Hays Post.

&nbsp;If you would like to get in on the action of this year’s online auction, click on the link below.&nbsp;

Dive into a digital treasure trove of savings with the Eagle Radio Online Auction!

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here&nbsp;to get registered, view items and bid.</a>

Bid now on an expansive collection ranging from home essentials to tantalizing restaurant gift cards, and valuable services from esteemed local companies and save.

 Whether you're seeking something specific or just browsing for unexpected finds, our vast selection promises both variety and value. 

The Eagle Radio online auction — where saving money is just a click away!

Eagle Radio Auction live now!

&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 City of Hays is reminding residents that pet registrations for 2026 are currently open.

Per city ordinance, all dogs, cats, and non-venomous constrictor snakes exceeding six feet in length must be licensed annually.

To complete the registration, owners of dogs and cats must provide a current rabies vaccination record.

Owners of qualifying constrictor snakes are required to provide proof of microchipping.

“A pet tag is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lost or missing animal returns home,” said Community Service Officer Nikki Hausler. “When an officer or a citizen finds a pet wearing a city license, it allows us to quickly identify the owner and facilitate a safe reunion, often avoiding a trip to the shelter.”

The 2026 licensing fees are $5 for spayed or neutered dogs and cats, while the fee for unaltered pets is $25.

Constrictor snakes exceeding six feet may be registered for $5.

Additionally, owners of breeds classified by ordinance as dangerous, including Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, or Pit Bull mixes, must pay a $50 registration fee in addition to the standard licensing costs.

Residents have until March 1 to register pets currently in their possession before late fees are applied.

Unregistered pets will incur a penalty of $10 per month or partial month past the deadline, with a maximum late fee of $50.

“We’ve worked to make this process as efficient as possible for our residents,” said City Clerk Jami Briet. “The registration can be completed quickly at City Hall, and our staff is ready to assist owners in getting their 2026 tags handled before the March deadline.”

Licenses can be obtained in person at the City Clerk’s Office, 1507 Main St.

The office is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, residents may contact the City Clerk’s Office at (785) 628-7300 or visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/">HaysUSA.com</a>.

City of Hays pet registration deadline approaching

BUNKER HILL — The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will provide live coverage of the 2026 Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Class 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships. 

The event is begins at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27 through the semi-finals, and continues Sat., Feb. 28 at 9 a.m.&nbsp;at Gross Memorial Coliseum on the campus of Fort Hays State University, Hays.

Smoky Hills PBS will once again showcase both boys' and girls' competitions, continuing a long-standing commitment to local sports and its tradition of bringing live broadcast coverage of high school sports to viewers across central and western Kansas.

Every match will be broadcast live, co-hosted by Eagle Radio's Mike Holliday. You can find&nbsp;3-2-1A and Hays High School state wrestling results on <a href="https://hayspost.com/">Hays Post</a>.&nbsp;

A rebroadcast of the championship finals will air on&nbsp;Sunday, March 1&nbsp;at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Our production crew and our many volunteers take great pride in delivering live, reliable coverage of this championship every year," said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director at Smoky Hills PBS. "Covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships is about celebrating the athletes, the schools, and the communities that support them."

3-2-1A state wrestling championships to air live on Smoky Hills PBS

Get your tickets today and then join us&nbsp;as we kick off the Hays Concert Series with a special Lovegrass Music Festival Fundraiser on Saturday, March 14 at the Hays Community Theatre.

Tickets are on sale now at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.list-manage.com/RcpvPPY0b4A?e=ad2f5727f7&amp;c2id=464001e5eac1dfb0bc25eb093087c2fd">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;

Doors at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. at the&nbsp; Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. 8th, Hays. Suggested donation is $25.

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 fundraiser is March 14 in Hays; tickets now available online 

This month’s Science Café presentation, “AI for Advancing Research Across Diverse Disciplines,” is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) and will begin at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23 at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub &amp; Grill, 2704 Vine.

Dr. Anas Hourani, FHSU Associate Professor of Computer Science in the Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, will provide an overview of how artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques are transforming research across diverse disciplines by enabling knowledge extraction from large-scale data.

Please note, while drinks will be available for purchase, no food will be served&nbsp;during Science Café.

Science Café presentations are free and open to the public. Questions can be directed to Cari Rohleder at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cbrohleder@fhsu.edu">cbrohleder@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4743 or by visiting:

<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqgHG-2B9GDc8KXBqj4fLXNv8t-2BV6Hb4Q5M0d-2FSyU8hjsQrSc6LVzLLvmFtB9JY8b1rMg-3D-3DI8e2_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOxhHfie4Psr7PgSLQuwklupqp6-2Bhxxpc08UdaGL7sxv8fcxRSUu4Oi8fMbn7NlB3xF2IVmdUY0rkyJEMwMnz-2BKSGQGMdt0NrU5sqrW-2BrUn39-2B7lX0fgeFEdloM2R-2FhDWQ7RuK85zg2QmPOUmYRoNb2lnw4sIKHCvntK4Eon0Yd0-2FVuaLhx23DMcs7mizek9UY5rDXOQsq8phghkThfnMdZa-2B1GZ1UVXL0RrEqAMv7E23OCuZRncxaF9kkUJP2rIIN">www.facebook.com/FHSUScienceCafe</a>

FHSU’s upcoming Science Café set for Monday, Feb. 23

VICTORIA - Victoria Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fries, Fridays, February 27, March 13, and March 27 beginning at 5:00 pm at the Victoria VFW Hall.

Victoria K of C Lenten fish fries start Feb. 27

Please save the date for "Vessel of Survival," an MFA thesis exhibition by Jonah Simmons, presented in partial fulfillment of the Master of Fine Arts degree at Fort Hays State University.

The exhibition features sculptural ceramic works that explore themes of endurance, vulnerability, and material transformation, drawing from personal narrative as well as broader social and cultural frameworks.

Exhibition:&nbsp;Vessel of Survival Artist:&nbsp;Jonah Simmons, MFA Candidate (Ceramics) Dates:&nbsp;July 14–17 Reception:&nbsp;Friday, July 17, 6:00–8:00 p.m. Location:&nbsp;Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art, Fort Hays State University

'Vessel of Survival' ceramics exhibition to be presented in July at FHSU

Annual Hays Lions Club pancake feed fundraiser is March 10

Hays USD 489 kindergarten round-up set for next week

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is set to invalidate about 1,700 driver’s licenses held by transgender residents and roughly as many birth certificates under a new law that goes beyond Republican-imposed restrictions in other states on listing gender identities in government documents.

The new law takes effect Thursday. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed the measure but the Legislature's GOP supermajorities overrode it last week as Republican state lawmakers across the U.S. have pursued another round of measures to roll back transgender rights.

The bill prohibits documents from listing any sex other than the one assigned birth and invalidates any that reflect a conflicting gender identity. Florida, Tennessee and Texas also don't allow driver's licenses to reflect a trans person's gender identity, and at least eight states besides Kansas have policies that bar trans residents from changing their birth certificates.

But only Kansas' law requires reversing changes previously made for trans residents. Kansas officials expect to cancel about 1,700 driver's licenses and issue new birth certificates for up to 1,800 people.

“It tells me that Kansas Republicans are interested in being on the vanguard of the culture war and in a race to the bottom,” said Democratic state Rep. Abi Boatman, a transgender Air Force veteran appointed in January to fill a vacant Wichita seat.

Kansas' new law enjoyed nearly unanimous GOP support. It is the latest success in what has become an annual effort to further roll back transgender rights by Republicans in statehouses across the U.S., bolstered by policies and rhetoric from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-transgender-rights-lawsuit-e0c462aeb4662576e3569dfdf91b0a9c">President Donald Trump's administration.</a>

Trump and other Republicans attack research-backed conclusions that gender can change or be fluid as radical&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-transgender-order-passports-prisons-military-3c14ecbdd10f61618384e81624d090fb">“gender ideology."</a>&nbsp;GOP lawmakers in Kansas regularly describe transgender girls and women as male and as they say they're protecting women.

Like fellow Republicans, Kansas Senate Majority Leader Chase Blaisi said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-campaign-trump-kamala-harris-democrats-republicans-bbae5660ef59110e5fc9c24f98b082d6">Trump’s reelection</a>&nbsp;and other GOP victories in 2024 show that voters want “to return to common sense" on gender.

"When I go home, people believe there are just two sexes, male and female,” Blasi said. “It’s basic biology I learned in high school.”

Kelly supports transgender rights, but GOP lawmakers have overridden her vetoes three of the past four years. Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-health-care-minors-kansas-07d1d75b82f3c7f9f6bc9b7daf02d8e9">bans gender-affirming care</a>&nbsp;for minors and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-athletes-ban-kansas-08604c663518fb2538565f3e1ac3d4ba">bars transgender women and girls</a>&nbsp;from female sports teams, kindergarten through college.

Transgender people can't use public restrooms, locker rooms or other single-sex facilities associated with their gender identities, though there was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-bathroom-laws-enforcement-e96e94b8935eb6bd23a42562cdeeec6c">no enforcement mechanism</a>&nbsp;until this year's law added tough new provisions.

Transgender people have said carrying IDs that misgender them opens them to intrusive questions, harassment and even violence when they show it to police, merchants, and others.

In 2023, Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-birth-certificates-kansas-8424f36613c05d03b7d4eb8f82229ee6">halted changes</a>&nbsp;in Kansas birth certificates and driver's licenses by enacting a measure ending the state's legal recognition of trans residents' gender identities. Though the law didn't mention either document, it legally defined male and female by a person's “biological reproductive system” at birth.

However, a lawsuit led to state court decisions that last year permitted driver's license changes to resume.

Legislators in at least seven other states are considering bills to prevent transgender people from changing one or both documents, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://pluralpolicy.com/app/tagged-bills/49041">a search</a>&nbsp;using the bill-tracking software Plural.

The extra step by Kansas legislators reinforces a message “that trans people aren’t welcome,” said Anthony Alvarez, a transgender University of Kansas student who works for a pro-LGBTQ rights group.

Kansas is likely to notify transgender residents by mail that their driver's licenses are no longer valid and they need to go to a local licensing office to get a new one, said Zachary Denney, spokesperson for the agency that issues them.

The Legislature hasn't earmarked funds to cover the cost, so each person will pay it — $26 for a standard license.

Alvarez already has had four IDs in four years as he's changed his name, changed his gender marker and turned 21.

He's always planned to stay in his native Kansas after getting his history degree this spring.

But, he said, “They’re just making it harder and harder for me to live in the state that I love.”

New law puts Kansas at vanguard of ending trans IDs on drivers licenses, birth certificates

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police have released more details surrounding the arrest of a man wanted in connection with the November shooting death of a 16-year-old Kansas boy.

On Friday, police asked the public for help to locate 20-year-old Nassir Tiriq Gill in connection with the November killing of 16-year-old Kingston Scott.

Late Monday, Topeka Police thanked members of the public for their assistance in providing information related to the crime and arrest. Police also thanked the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office.

 Just before 9p.m. Sunday, police booked 20-year-old&nbsp; Nassir Tiriq Gill into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to online jail records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 1a.m. November 22, 2025,&nbsp; police responded to several reports of gunshots around SE 37th Street and SE Adams Street in Topeka. While officers were investigating that area, they received information on a subject arriving at a local hospital by private vehicle with apparent gunshot wounds. The victim later identified as Kingston Scott of Topeka was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

As a result of the investigation police have already arrested two 16-year-old boys from Topeka on&nbsp;&nbsp;charges including murder, Criminal discharge of firearm; Occupied vehicle with great bodily harm and Aggravated Assault; Use of a deadly weapon.

&nbsp;Gill is being held on requested charges of&nbsp; Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Murder in the 1st degree; In the commission of a felony. Murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated, Criminal discharge of firearm; Occupied vehicle w great bodily harm, Criminal discharge of firearm; Recklessly at occupied dwelling and Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000, according to online jail records.

Police: Tips helped in arrest of suspect in killing of Kansas boy

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an altercation that led to an arrest during a student&nbsp; protest in Olathe.

Just after 2p.m. February 20, police were dispatched to a reported fight in the area of College Boulevard and South Lone Elm Road in Olathe, according to Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

Officers learned there was a planned anti-ICE protest near Olathe Northwest High school when they confronted and started a fight with students who were counter protesting them. During the incident, approximately four students were injured.&nbsp;

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