Hays High vs Liberal Friday, Feb. 14th – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2174621">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

Hays High returns to the hardwood Friday night for a key WAC showdown with the Liberal Redskins.

Tip-off for the girls game is 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network with the boys game to follow.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High vs Liberal Friday, Feb. 14th – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Hays, Kan. - Hays High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2174621">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>Hays High returns to the hardwood Friday night for a key WAC showdown with the Liberal Redskins.Tip-off for the girls game is 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network with the boys game to follow.&nbsp;

🏀🎥 Hays High hosts Liberal

TMP-Marian at Phillipsburg Friday, Feb. 14 – 6:00 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. - Phillipsburg High School

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2174636">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs are on the road one final time in the regular season as they travel to Phillipsburg for a match up with the Panthers.&nbsp;

The girls' game will tip off at 6:00 p.m. from Phillipsburg, and the boys will follow on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian at Phillipsburg Friday, Feb. 14 – 6:00 p.m. Phillipsburg, Kan. - Phillipsburg High SchoolRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2174636">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs are on the road one final time in the regular season as they travel to Phillipsburg for a match up with the Panthers.&nbsp;The girls' game will tip off at 6:00 p.m. from Phillipsburg, and the boys will follow on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian travels to Phillipsburg

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yjo5T4F0Z5Y?si=zvLRdXCigR7GItCb" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

Forward Ever: Amy France, chairman of National Sorghum Producers Association

FHSU crime log: Feb. 4-7, 2025

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Jennifer Hecker and Anniston Weber of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services about Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Options Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=kuyg7-17f5826-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Jennifer Hecker and Anniston Weber of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services about Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Options on teen dating violence

Kansas is facing a crisis when it comes to defending accused criminals who cannot afford their own attorneys. A shrinking number of rural attorneys is making it harder. If the problem is not addressed there is a risk that courts will throw out criminal cases.

<a href="https://www.kmuw.org/">Kansas News Service</a>

Every day, Jessica Glendening expects to receive a list of new criminal cases that need public defenders in the Douglas County District Court.

That list includes all of the new criminal cases assigned to the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender's Office based in Lawrence. The office represents defendants in criminal cases who cannot afford to hire their own attorney — a key component to the U.S. justice system that is enshrined by the Sixth Amendment in the Constitution.

Glendening, chief public defender for the office, said they recently reached a full staff of seven attorneys. That has allowed the office to provide legal services to those defendants as soon as they are charged with a crime.

But that may not last for long. Eventually, the caseload may become too large, and the office will need to stop taking on new cases for a while. Glendening said that would happen when her office was not fully staffed last year.

“We've had to close the office several times,” Glendening said, “because the attorneys were at their maximum caseload.”

When that happens, the pile of cases that need public defenders are offered to private attorneys. Someone like Cheryl Stewart, an attorney based in Oakley on the far west side of Kansas.

She will drive for hundreds of miles from her home to courtrooms in places like Elkhart in the southwest and Topeka in the northeast. She said she could spend up to five hours on the road before she steps into a courthouse. She often needs to spend the night in towns all over the state to be ready.

“I drive to a hotel in that town the night before,” Stewart said. “Last year I had over 33 nights in hotels.”

Stewart loves her job and she doesn’t mind traveling for work. But she can only take on so many cases.

The Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services must provide public attorneys to people who cannot afford one. But the agency often does not have enough staff at its public defender offices across the state to cover all of its cases and hires private attorneys. If the agency fails to find an attorney, a judge could simply dismiss the case, no matter how serious the charges are.

That’s not yet a problem in Kansas, but it could be if state lawmakers don’t provide the necessary funds to hire the needed attorneys.

It’s already happened in Oregon. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-oregon-covid-portland-a13c2ecf6e4648272dfa12fb9244b7a6" target="_blank">Associated Press reported</a>&nbsp;that nearly 300 cases in the Portland area were dismissed in 2022 because of a shortage of public defenders. Mike Schmidt, the top prosecutor there, called the crisis “an urgent threat to public safety.”

Kansas could avoid throwing out criminal cases by prioritizing public defense and incentivizing new private attorneys in rural areas. But that will cost money.

The lack of public defense attorneys also coincides with a shrinking number of attorneys serving the state’s rural areas. That makes it even harder for the state to find private attorneys to help fill the holes.

The Kansas Judicial Center recently studied the issue and has begun ringing warning alarms.

Chief Justice Marla Luckert&nbsp;<a href="http://kscourts.gov/KSCourts/media/KsCourts/Publications/2025-State-of-the-Judiciary-Address.pdf" target="_blank">recently told lawmakers</a>&nbsp;that the lack of attorneys hurts everyday Kansans who must rely on attorneys when they end up in court. She said it will only get worse if the state does not take action.

“If we are to help these people and avoid an all-out crisis, complacency cannot be our approach,” Luckert said. “We must all put on our hero capes and work together to find solutions.”

A&nbsp;<a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/679a36bfc8a6db4d841746fa/t/679a941df335095c1160dd20/1738183709606/KS%2BPublic%2BDefense%2BWorkloads%2BDec%2B2023.pdf" target="_blank">2023 study</a>&nbsp;conducted by the Board of Indigents’ Defense Services showed that the state’s public defenders are overworked and underpaid.

National standards call for an attorney to work about 248 hours on a murder case. As things stand now, Kansas public defenders only have an average of 13 hours to spend on any given case.

Heather Cessna, the executive director for the Board of Indigents' Services, said that is woefully inadequate and raises ethical concerns about the agency’s ability to provide effective legal counsel.

“The bottom line is we either need fewer cases in our system,” Cessna said, “or we need a lot more attorneys to handle those cases.”

Cessna recently told lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_jud_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_s_jud_1_20250114_01_testimony.html" target="_blank">she needs to hire 600 attorneys</a>&nbsp;— 400 public defender staff and 200 private attorneys taking on public cases where the state does not have a public defender office — to properly cover the state’s case load.

Meanwhile, it’s also hard to fill those positions because the agency cannot offer competitive pay.

Consider a prosecutor. They are Kansas employees who represent the state and its laws in criminal cases. They are often facing off in court with a public defender, another state employee tasked with providing criminal defendants with their right to legal counsel.

Cessna said prosecutors earn higher pay, up to 30% more. That makes prosecution a much more attractive job than public defense, despite the two attorneys effectively working the same cases from opposite ends.

Cessna has requested lawmakers provide more funding to help retain her current attorneys and attract new ones. Otherwise, public defenders are earning lower pay to provide a vital service in the U.S. justice system.

“Everybody who is doing this work is sacrificing something because they believe in the Constitution,” Cessna said of public defenders. “They believe in our clients' rights to have somebody there to defend their case.”

The lack of public defenders is compounded by a shrinking number of rural attorneys.

Private attorneys across the state have long been a release valve for the public defender offices that cannot take on any more cases. That’s very important in rural areas, where there are no dedicated public defender offices.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://kscourts.gov/About-the-Courts/Court-Administration/Committees/Kansas-Rural-Justice-Initiative-Committee" target="_blank">Kansas Judicial Branch committee studied</a>&nbsp;why the rural areas are struggling to employ attorneys. They found many young attorneys fear opening their own legal practice in rural parts of the state. That's because of their lack of experience and concerns about making enough money.

In the meantime, the crop of attorneys in the rural areas are aging quickly. The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_jud_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_s_jud_1_20250121_02_testimony.html" target="_blank">study shows</a>&nbsp;the average age of the rural attorneys in Kansas is 55. That’s nearly 10 years older than the national average of 46.

Kansas Supreme Court Justice KJ Wall, who led the committee, said there are rural attorneys in their 70s who believe they can’t retire because no attorney will come fill the hole they will leave in their communities.

Wall said the problem isn’t just a lack of criminal defense attorneys, but a lack of attorneys serving every aspect of the legal spectrum. That could be family law, estate planning, civil litigation and more.

The Judicial Branch committee has offered solutions, like creating a professional organization to support rural attorneys and working with state universities to attract more students to its law schools.

However, Wall said young attorneys also have crushing student loan debt. He suggested lawmakers provide tuition reimbursements to promote working in rural areas for a certain amount of time.

Kansas already offers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/296/State-Loan-Repayment-Program" target="_blank">student loan reimbursement programs for health professionals</a>&nbsp;who choose to work in areas with health care shortages. The state in 2012 also launched its Rural Opportunity Zones program aimed at attracting residents to move to rural settings.

The state hopes those plans will also help&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-06-06/politicians-say-they-can-stop-rural-kansas-population-declines-but-the-dropoff-continues" target="_blank">reverse its shrinking rural population</a>. Wall said there’s evidence that a similar program for attorneys can help.

“What we found in other states,” Wall said, “is that those that are participating end up more often than not staying in that same community even after their service commitment ends.”

The rural areas also have an advocate in Stewart. She said she encourages young attorneys to consider working in the rural areas and that she is willing to help them get their footing.

Stewart previously worked in Kansas City, Kansas, but found a much better work experience in western Kansas. That’s partly because the demand for an attorney was much higher.

“My last year of income in Wyandotte County was like $25,000,” Stewart said. “I moved out to Western Kansas and that income doubled in six months.”

Both Cessna and Wall said that without solutions, the inevitable end result includes courts dismissing criminal cases. That means defendants credibly accused of crimes would not face consequences and victims of crimes may never find justice.

Cessna asked for $4 million to help fill 29 staff positions next year, only a fraction of the many positions her office needs.

So far this year, Kansas lawmakers have not approved funding for a reimbursement program or added money for the state’s public defense agency.

In fact, some Republican lawmakers and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly are proposing budgets that will not fully cover a nearly $7 million shortfall for the agency this year. The agency will need to offset that loss with funds it saved for positions it wants to fill.

Lawmakers are also proposing no new funding next year. While Kelly offered a meager $1.7 million increase.

That puts the public defender agency in a tough position next year. Cessna said the state already expects her office to see increased expenditures because of the number of cases are expected to be resolved next year to the tune of nearly $5 million.

But Republican Rep. William Sutton of Gardner said lawmakers have to do something. The U.S. Constitution requiring public defense means the state’s hands are tied.

“They either need to have attorneys on staff,” Sutton said, “or they need to be able to contract for them if they're not on staff. Either way, that's an outlay of money.”

Lawmakers are still discussing the budget and could make changes before those bills come due.

Dylan Lysen reports on social services and criminal justice for the Kansas News Service. You can email him at dlysen@kcur.org.

The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

<h2>Kansas is facing a crisis when it comes to defending accused criminals who cannot afford their own attorneys. A shrinking number of rural attorneys is making it harder. If the problem is not addressed there is a risk that courts will throw out criminal cases.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739461445266.png" alt="Jessica Glendening leads the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender Office in Lawrence. It is one of the 14 public defender offices in Kansas serving criminal defendants who cannot afford their own attorney.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dylan Lysen/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Glendening leads the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender Office in Lawrence. It is one of the 14 public defender offices in Kansas serving criminal defendants who cannot afford their own attorney.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dylan Lysen/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kmuw.org/">Kansas News Service</a>Every day, Jessica Glendening expects to receive a list of new criminal cases that need public defenders in the Douglas County District Court.That list includes all of the new criminal cases assigned to the Seventh Judicial District Public Defender's Office based in Lawrence. The office represents defendants in criminal cases who cannot afford to hire their own attorney — a key component to the U.S. justice system that is enshrined by the Sixth Amendment in the Constitution.Glendening, chief public defender for the office, said they recently reached a full staff of seven attorneys. That has allowed the office to provide legal services to those defendants as soon as they are charged with a crime.But that may not last for long. Eventually, the caseload may become too large, and the office will need to stop taking on new cases for a while. Glendening said that would happen when her office was not fully staffed last year.“We've had to close the office several times,” Glendening said, “because the attorneys were at their maximum caseload.”When that happens, the pile of cases that need public defenders are offered to private attorneys. Someone like Cheryl Stewart, an attorney based in Oakley on the far west side of Kansas.She will drive for hundreds of miles from her home to courtrooms in places like Elkhart in the southwest and Topeka in the northeast. She said she could spend up to five hours on the road before she steps into a courthouse. She often needs to spend the night in towns all over the state to be ready.“I drive to a hotel in that town the night before,” Stewart said. “Last year I had over 33 nights in hotels.”Stewart loves her job and she doesn’t mind traveling for work. But she can only take on so many cases.The Kansas State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services must provide public attorneys to people who cannot afford one. But the agency often does not have enough staff at its public defender offices across the state to cover all of its cases and hires private attorneys. If the agency fails to find an attorney, a judge could simply dismiss the case, no matter how serious the charges are.That’s not yet a problem in Kansas, but it could be if state lawmakers don’t provide the necessary funds to hire the needed attorneys.It’s already happened in Oregon. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-oregon-covid-portland-a13c2ecf6e4648272dfa12fb9244b7a6" target="_blank">Associated Press reported</a>&nbsp;that nearly 300 cases in the Portland area were dismissed in 2022 because of a shortage of public defenders. Mike Schmidt, the top prosecutor there, called the crisis “an urgent threat to public safety.”Kansas could avoid throwing out criminal cases by prioritizing public defense and incentivizing new private attorneys in rural areas. But that will cost money.The lack of public defense attorneys also coincides with a shrinking number of attorneys serving the state’s rural areas. That makes it even harder for the state to find private attorneys to help fill the holes.The Kansas Judicial Center recently studied the issue and has begun ringing warning alarms.Chief Justice Marla Luckert&nbsp;<a href="http://kscourts.gov/KSCourts/media/KsCourts/Publications/2025-State-of-the-Judiciary-Address.pdf" target="_blank">recently told lawmakers</a>&nbsp;that the lack of attorneys hurts everyday Kansans who must rely on attorneys when they end up in court. She said it will only get worse if the state does not take action.“If we are to help these people and avoid an all-out crisis, complacency cannot be our approach,” Luckert said. “We must all put on our hero capes and work together to find solutions.”<h2>Public Defense</h2>A&nbsp;<a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/679a36bfc8a6db4d841746fa/t/679a941df335095c1160dd20/1738183709606/KS%2BPublic%2BDefense%2BWorkloads%2BDec%2B2023.pdf" target="_blank">2023 study</a>&nbsp;conducted by the Board of Indigents’ Defense Services showed that the state’s public defenders are overworked and underpaid.National standards call for an attorney to work about 248 hours on a murder case. As things stand now, Kansas public defenders only have an average of 13 hours to spend on any given case.Heather Cessna, the executive director for the Board of Indigents' Services, said that is woefully inadequate and raises ethical concerns about the agency’s ability to provide effective legal counsel.“The bottom line is we either need fewer cases in our system,” Cessna said, “or we need a lot more attorneys to handle those cases.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739461662954.png" alt="Heather Cessna, the executive director for the Kansas State Board of Indigents' Services, recently asked lawmakers for $4 million of funding to help fill 29 staff positions in the state. That's well below the 600 attorney positions she needs to fill for the state to adequately cover all of its public defense cases.&nbsp;Screenshot of Legislative Hearing" />
 <figcaption>Heather Cessna, the executive director for the Kansas State Board of Indigents' Services, recently asked lawmakers for $4 million of funding to help fill 29 staff positions in the state. That's well below the 600 attorney positions she needs to fill for the state to adequately cover all of its public defense cases.&nbsp;Screenshot of Legislative Hearing</figcaption>
 </figure>Cessna recently told lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_jud_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_s_jud_1_20250114_01_testimony.html" target="_blank">she needs to hire 600 attorneys</a>&nbsp;— 400 public defender staff and 200 private attorneys taking on public cases where the state does not have a public defender office — to properly cover the state’s case load.Meanwhile, it’s also hard to fill those positions because the agency cannot offer competitive pay.Consider a prosecutor. They are Kansas employees who represent the state and its laws in criminal cases. They are often facing off in court with a public defender, another state employee tasked with providing criminal defendants with their right to legal counsel.Cessna said prosecutors earn higher pay, up to 30% more. That makes prosecution a much more attractive job than public defense, despite the two attorneys effectively working the same cases from opposite ends.Cessna has requested lawmakers provide more funding to help retain her current attorneys and attract new ones. Otherwise, public defenders are earning lower pay to provide a vital service in the U.S. justice system.“Everybody who is doing this work is sacrificing something because they believe in the Constitution,” Cessna said of public defenders. “They believe in our clients' rights to have somebody there to defend their case.”<h2>Rural attorney shortage</h2>The lack of public defenders is compounded by a shrinking number of rural attorneys.Private attorneys across the state have long been a release valve for the public defender offices that cannot take on any more cases. That’s very important in rural areas, where there are no dedicated public defender offices.A&nbsp;<a href="https://kscourts.gov/About-the-Courts/Court-Administration/Committees/Kansas-Rural-Justice-Initiative-Committee" target="_blank">Kansas Judicial Branch committee studied</a>&nbsp;why the rural areas are struggling to employ attorneys. They found many young attorneys fear opening their own legal practice in rural parts of the state. That's because of their lack of experience and concerns about making enough money.In the meantime, the crop of attorneys in the rural areas are aging quickly. The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_jud_1/misc_documents/download_testimony/ctte_s_jud_1_20250121_02_testimony.html" target="_blank">study shows</a>&nbsp;the average age of the rural attorneys in Kansas is 55. That’s nearly 10 years older than the national average of 46.Kansas Supreme Court Justice KJ Wall, who led the committee, said there are rural attorneys in their 70s who believe they can’t retire because no attorney will come fill the hole they will leave in their communities.Wall said the problem isn’t just a lack of criminal defense attorneys, but a lack of attorneys serving every aspect of the legal spectrum. That could be family law, estate planning, civil litigation and more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739461727052.png" alt="The Kansas Judicial Branch's Rural Justice Initiative found the number of attorneys admitted in Kansas steadily declined for more than 20 years. That's contributed to a shrinking number of attorneys serving rural parts of the state.&nbsp;Kansas Judicial Branch" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Judicial Branch's Rural Justice Initiative found the number of attorneys admitted in Kansas steadily declined for more than 20 years. That's contributed to a shrinking number of attorneys serving rural parts of the state.&nbsp;Kansas Judicial Branch</figcaption>
 </figure>The Judicial Branch committee has offered solutions, like creating a professional organization to support rural attorneys and working with state universities to attract more students to its law schools.However, Wall said young attorneys also have crushing student loan debt. He suggested lawmakers provide tuition reimbursements to promote working in rural areas for a certain amount of time.Kansas already offers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/296/State-Loan-Repayment-Program" target="_blank">student loan reimbursement programs for health professionals</a>&nbsp;who choose to work in areas with health care shortages. The state in 2012 also launched its Rural Opportunity Zones program aimed at attracting residents to move to rural settings.The state hopes those plans will also help&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-06-06/politicians-say-they-can-stop-rural-kansas-population-declines-but-the-dropoff-continues" target="_blank">reverse its shrinking rural population</a>. Wall said there’s evidence that a similar program for attorneys can help.“What we found in other states,” Wall said, “is that those that are participating end up more often than not staying in that same community even after their service commitment ends.”The rural areas also have an advocate in Stewart. She said she encourages young attorneys to consider working in the rural areas and that she is willing to help them get their footing.Stewart previously worked in Kansas City, Kansas, but found a much better work experience in western Kansas. That’s partly because the demand for an attorney was much higher.“My last year of income in Wyandotte County was like $25,000,” Stewart said. “I moved out to Western Kansas and that income doubled in six months.”<h2>Cost of justice</h2>Both Cessna and Wall said that without solutions, the inevitable end result includes courts dismissing criminal cases. That means defendants credibly accused of crimes would not face consequences and victims of crimes may never find justice.Cessna asked for $4 million to help fill 29 staff positions next year, only a fraction of the many positions her office needs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739461801034.png" alt="Chief Justice Marla Luckert said during her State of the Judiciary address that the shortage of attorneys in Kansas threatens the state's legal system.&nbsp;File Photo/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Chief Justice Marla Luckert said during her State of the Judiciary address that the shortage of attorneys in Kansas threatens the state's legal system.&nbsp;File Photo/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>So far this year, Kansas lawmakers have not approved funding for a reimbursement program or added money for the state’s public defense agency.In fact, some Republican lawmakers and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly are proposing budgets that will not fully cover a nearly $7 million shortfall for the agency this year. The agency will need to offset that loss with funds it saved for positions it wants to fill.Lawmakers are also proposing no new funding next year. While Kelly offered a meager $1.7 million increase.That puts the public defender agency in a tough position next year. Cessna said the state already expects her office to see increased expenditures because of the number of cases are expected to be resolved next year to the tune of nearly $5 million.But Republican Rep. William Sutton of Gardner said lawmakers have to do something. The U.S. Constitution requiring public defense means the state’s hands are tied.“They either need to have attorneys on staff,” Sutton said, “or they need to be able to contract for them if they're not on staff. Either way, that's an outlay of money.”Lawmakers are still discussing the budget and could make changes before those bills come due.Dylan Lysen reports on social services and criminal justice for the Kansas News Service. You can email him at dlysen@kcur.org.The Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social determinants of health and their connection to public policy.

Shortage of public defense attorneys in Kansas could result in courts throwing out criminal cases

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminds taxpayers in Kansas that they can file their taxes quickly, easily and for free directly with the agency using IRS Direct File.

The web-based service, available in English and Spanish, offers guided help for preparing and filing a federal tax return from a smartphone, tablet or computer.

Direct File does not replace existing filing options like tax professionals, IRS Free File, free return preparation sites, commercial software or authorized e-file providers.

IRS customer service representatives staffing the Direct File support function can provide technical support and provide basic clarification of tax law related to the scope of Direct File. Questions related to issues other than Direct File will be routed to other IRS customer support, as appropriate.

Although the deadline to file a 2024 tax return and pay any tax owed is April 15, 2025, Direct File will be open until Oct. 15, 2025, for people who may need additional time to file.

Enhancements for the 2025 filing season

For the 2025 filing season, Direct File includes new features that make filing taxes quicker and easier.

· Import W-2 wages and other tax information directly from the IRS with step-by-step guidance

· Chat bot helps guide taxpayers through the eligibility checker

· Live chat feature is available in English and Spanish

· Opt-in option allows authenticated and verified taxpayers to access additional customer support or

· Request a callback from an IRS Direct File customer support representative.

Income. IRS Direct File is available for taxpayers who lived and worked in Kansas for all of 2024, file simple federal tax returns and report the following types of income: · W-2 wage income · SSA-1099 Social Security income · 1099-G unemployment compensation · 1099-INT interest income · 1099-R retirement income

Direct File is not available to taxpayers with other types of income, such as gig economy, rental or business income, or for taxpayers that itemize deductions. Taxpayers can check their eligibility and see if Direct File is a good fit. For those not eligible, they have alternative filing options.

Credits. IRS Direct File will automatically identify and apply the following tax credits for eligible taxpayers: · Earned Income Tax Credit · Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents · Child and Dependent Care Credit · Premium Tax Credit · Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled · Retirement Savings Contributions Credit

In addition to covering taxpayers claiming the standard deduction and deductions for student loan interest and educator expenses, Direct File supports taxpayers claiming deductions for Health Savings Account contributions.

Direct File won’t prepare Kansas state tax returns. Once taxpayers have completed their federal tax return, Direct File automatically guides them to Kansas services to complete their state taxes. Visit the state websites to find information about income tax filing in each state.

Free filing options for all taxpayers

· IRS Free File provides a free online alternative to file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software to any individual or family who earned $84,000 or less in 2024. · People who make over $84,000 can use the IRS' Free File Fillable Forms. These are the electronic version of IRS paper forms. This product is best for people who are comfortable preparing their own taxes.

· People who generally make $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers and those who are 60 years of age and older, can also find free one-on-one tax preparation help around the nation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. · The Department of Defense provides MilTax as a free tax resource for the military community. MilTax is a suite of tax services available for members of the military, as well as qualifying veterans and family members. There are no income limits. Eligible taxpayers can use MilTax to electronically file a federal tax return and up to three state returns for free.

Taxpayers may also use online resources at IRS.gov to quickly get answers to tax questions, check a refund status or pay taxes. There’s no wait time or appointment needed. Online tools and resources are available 24 hours a day, including the IRS’ Interactive Tax Assistant tool and Let us help you resources. Taxpayers considering using Direct File are encouraged to subscribe to the Direct File newsletter.

More information · Publication 5916, File for Free with IRS Direct File · Publication 5917, IRS Direct File – What You Need to Know · Publication 5949, Helpful Tips to Prepare You for IRS Direct File · Publication 5952, Are You Ready to File with IRS Direct File?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminds taxpayers in Kansas that they can file their taxes quickly, easily and for free directly with the agency using IRS Direct File.The web-based service, available in English and Spanish, offers guided help for preparing and filing a federal tax return from a smartphone, tablet or computer.Direct File does not replace existing filing options like tax professionals, IRS Free File, free return preparation sites, commercial software or authorized e-file providers.IRS customer service representatives staffing the Direct File support function can provide technical support and provide basic clarification of tax law related to the scope of Direct File. Questions related to issues other than Direct File will be routed to other IRS customer support, as appropriate.Although the deadline to file a 2024 tax return and pay any tax owed is April 15, 2025, Direct File will be open until Oct. 15, 2025, for people who may need additional time to file.Enhancements for the 2025 filing seasonFor the 2025 filing season, Direct File includes new features that make filing taxes quicker and easier.· Import W-2 wages and other tax information directly from the IRS with step-by-step guidance· Chat bot helps guide taxpayers through the eligibility checker· Live chat feature is available in English and Spanish· Opt-in option allows authenticated and verified taxpayers to access additional customer support or· Request a callback from an IRS Direct File customer support representative.EligibilityIncome. IRS Direct File is available for taxpayers who lived and worked in Kansas for all of 2024, file simple federal tax returns and report the following types of income: · W-2 wage income · SSA-1099 Social Security income · 1099-G unemployment compensation · 1099-INT interest income · 1099-R retirement incomeDirect File is not available to taxpayers with other types of income, such as gig economy, rental or business income, or for taxpayers that itemize deductions. Taxpayers can check their eligibility and see if Direct File is a good fit. For those not eligible, they have alternative filing options.Credits. IRS Direct File will automatically identify and apply the following tax credits for eligible taxpayers: · Earned Income Tax Credit · Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents · Child and Dependent Care Credit · Premium Tax Credit · Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled · Retirement Savings Contributions CreditIn addition to covering taxpayers claiming the standard deduction and deductions for student loan interest and educator expenses, Direct File supports taxpayers claiming deductions for Health Savings Account contributions.Direct File won’t prepare Kansas state tax returns. Once taxpayers have completed their federal tax return, Direct File automatically guides them to Kansas services to complete their state taxes. Visit the state websites to find information about income tax filing in each state.Free filing options for all taxpayers· IRS Free File provides a free online alternative to file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software to any individual or family who earned $84,000 or less in 2024. · People who make over $84,000 can use the IRS' Free File Fillable Forms. These are the electronic version of IRS paper forms. This product is best for people who are comfortable preparing their own taxes.· People who generally make $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers and those who are 60 years of age and older, can also find free one-on-one tax preparation help around the nation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. · The Department of Defense provides MilTax as a free tax resource for the military community. MilTax is a suite of tax services available for members of the military, as well as qualifying veterans and family members. There are no income limits. Eligible taxpayers can use MilTax to electronically file a federal tax return and up to three state returns for free.Additional resourcesTaxpayers may also use online resources at IRS.gov to quickly get answers to tax questions, check a refund status or pay taxes. There’s no wait time or appointment needed. Online tools and resources are available 24 hours a day, including the IRS’ Interactive Tax Assistant tool and Let us help you resources. Taxpayers considering using Direct File are encouraged to subscribe to the Direct File newsletter.More information · Publication 5916, File for Free with IRS Direct File · Publication 5917, IRS Direct File – What You Need to Know · Publication 5949, Helpful Tips to Prepare You for IRS Direct File · Publication 5952, Are You Ready to File with IRS Direct File?

Eligible taxpayers in Kansas file for free with IRS Direct File

The City of Hays and KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds annual water conservation/water quality poster contest is open for entries.&nbsp;

The contest is open to Hays pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays Tech/North Central students, and community adults.

· “Know Water…Know Life” must be used as the theme on the poster · Designed on 12 x 18 inch White poster paper · HORIZONTAL DISPLAY ONLY · Use of pencil, pastels, charcoal, pen, ink, markers, paint, watercolor, crayon, cut paper, 3-dimensional, or computer generated posters will be accepted · Name, age, grade, and teacher/professor and school will need to be written in pencil on the back of the poster in the lower left hand corner · Adult entries need to include name, address, and phone number on the back · Posters can be made by individuals and do not need to be associated with a school or classroom

Water poster contest must share Water Conservation or Stormwater (water quality) messages, such as:

· Water Conservation simply means saving water. Messages could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at work. Specific messages might focus on bathroom or kitchen water saving efforts, more efficient landscapes utilizing native vegetation, soil health, or organic mulch, or installing high efficiency toilets, faucet aerators, or urinals in workplaces. To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/776/Water-Poster-Contest">www.watersmarthays.com</a>.

· Reducing the impact of stormwater and improving water quality as water leaves properties (residential or business) and enter Lincoln Draw, Chetolah Draw, or Big Creek is the goal. Messages could focus on pollutants including sediment (soil),&nbsp; nitrogen,&nbsp; phosphorus,&nbsp; E.coli bacteria,&nbsp; household chemicals,&nbsp; vehicle fluids, etc., that are harmful to water sources and tips for preventing the pollutants from leaving properties or tips on how to protect water sources. To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/">www.MyKansasWatershed.com</a>.

· Posters due by Wednesday March 12, 2025, by 12 p.m., turned into school offices, city hall, or at Public Works Department

· Winners announced by Friday, March 28, 2025

· Awards Ceremony, Sternberg Museum, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 6pm

For questions or more information, please contact Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist at 785-769-3297 (call or text) or sedgett@ksu.edu or Holly Dickman, City of Hays, Water Conservation Specialist at 785-628-7350 or hdickman@haysusa.com

* Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are designed for any individual, youth, or adult, with a mental or physical disability. To participate in the IDD category, a person must be diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and/or have significant learning or vocational difficulty.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739375135768.png" alt="File/City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>File/City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted The City of Hays and KSU Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds annual water conservation/water quality poster contest is open for entries.&nbsp;The contest is open to Hays pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays Tech/North Central students, and community adults.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739374484798.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Water Poster Contest Rules include:· “Know Water…Know Life” must be used as the theme on the poster · Designed on 12 x 18 inch White poster paper · HORIZONTAL DISPLAY ONLY · Use of pencil, pastels, charcoal, pen, ink, markers, paint, watercolor, crayon, cut paper, 3-dimensional, or computer generated posters will be accepted · Name, age, grade, and teacher/professor and school will need to be written in pencil on the back of the poster in the lower left hand corner · Adult entries need to include name, address, and phone number on the back · Posters can be made by individuals and do not need to be associated with a school or classroomWater poster contest must share Water Conservation or Stormwater (water quality) messages, such as:· Water Conservation simply means saving water. Messages could show how to reduce water usage indoors, outdoors, and/or at work. Specific messages might focus on bathroom or kitchen water saving efforts, more efficient landscapes utilizing native vegetation, soil health, or organic mulch, or installing high efficiency toilets, faucet aerators, or urinals in workplaces. To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/776/Water-Poster-Contest">www.watersmarthays.com</a>.· Reducing the impact of stormwater and improving water quality as water leaves properties (residential or business) and enter Lincoln Draw, Chetolah Draw, or Big Creek is the goal. Messages could focus on pollutants including sediment (soil),&nbsp; nitrogen,&nbsp; phosphorus,&nbsp; E.coli bacteria,&nbsp; household chemicals,&nbsp; vehicle fluids, etc., that are harmful to water sources and tips for preventing the pollutants from leaving properties or tips on how to protect water sources. To learn more, visit <a href="https://www.kcare.k-state.edu/wrip/wraps/big-creek-and-middle-smoky-hill-watersheds/">www.MyKansasWatershed.com</a>.Deadlines &amp; Dates to Remember:· Posters due by Wednesday March 12, 2025, by 12 p.m., turned into school offices, city hall, or at Public Works Department· Winners announced by Friday, March 28, 2025· Awards Ceremony, Sternberg Museum, Tuesday, April 1, 2025, 6pmFor questions or more information, please contact Stacie Minson, KSU Watershed Specialist at 785-769-3297 (call or text) or sedgett@ksu.edu or Holly Dickman, City of Hays, Water Conservation Specialist at 785-628-7350 or hdickman@haysusa.com* Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) are designed for any individual, youth, or adult, with a mental or physical disability. To participate in the IDD category, a person must be diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and/or have significant learning or vocational difficulty.

Entries open for Hays water conservation, water quality poster contest 

By TISA MASON FHSU President

You can usually find him holding court in Gross Memorial Coliseum and the Max Jones Fieldhouse at Fort Hays Tech | Northwest in Goodland and roaming the campus of Fort Hays Tech | North Central. He’s Victor E. Tiger, our beloved mascot, and right now, he is looking forward to his 25th birthday bash at the Tiger’s basketball game on February 22.

Sharing his birthday with fans and students is a joy for Victor E. He treasures the heartfelt birthday cards he receives, especially frames decorated by young fans featuring their picture with him. The community singing “Happy Birthday” adds an extra layer of happiness, making it a truly memorable occasion.

Victor’s birthday wishes this year include hoping to see the cheer squad succeed in competition and for both the men's and women’s basketball teams to win the MIAA tournament. He also wishes to keep his stripes free of gray hair for at least a few more years.

The journey to establish Victor E. Tiger as the university mascot started in the late 1990s when President Ed Hammond and Athletic Director Tom Spicer aimed to create a cohesive and recognizable mascot to represent FHSU. 

Larry Dreiling, who had served as the mascot in the late 1970s, played a pivotal role in this effort. He not only funded the initial mascot suit but also continued to support the project in various ways.

In the spring of 2000, after extensive design work by University Art Director Mary Ridgeway—who went through approximately 50 iterations and sought community input—the new mascot was unveiled in conjunction with the issue of the 2000 Reveille yearbook. The live reveal took place on April 3, 2000, at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, and the new logo was made available on university merchandise. The mascot was heralded then as the “first-ever and one-of-a-kind, ‘official’ Tiger mascot.”

Over the years, Victor E. has become a beloved symbol for students and alumni and a cherished figure within the local community, embodying the pride of Fort Hays State University.

I thought it would be fun to get an “insider's perspective” and catch up with one of my favorites, Dawna Evers, who served as Victor E. Tiger from 2008-2012. Dawna’s journey as Victor E. Tiger at Fort Hays State University is inspiring. 

Her passion for “mascotting” began at an early age when, at just five years old, she decided she wanted to become a mascot after watching her high school’s Bronco mascot. This aspiration led her to become the first mascot at Mustang North in middle school and later the inaugural mascot at Olathe Northwest High School in Kansas.

Dawna’s love for the role carried into her college years. In the spring of 2008, she tried out for Victor E. Tiger during her college visit and was thrilled to land the role. This experience allowed her to immerse herself in FHSU's vibrant spirit and community.

Dawna's preparation for mascot events was rigorous. She would hydrate days in advance, ensuring she was ready for the physically demanding role. On the day of events, she would meticulously prepare by packing everything she needed, from Victor E.’s&nbsp;body&nbsp;to ice packs for cooling down during breaks. Once fully zipped up, she entirely transformed into Victor E., setting aside her personal life and embracing the energetic persona of the mascot.

Dawna’s time as Victor E. Tiger was filled with memorable moments. She highlighted a poignant farewell at her last home game, where she received a standing ovation, an emotional recognition of her contribution as a mascot. She also formed a special bond with a little girl named Leila, who looked forward to their interactions at games. Their connection emphasized the impact Victor E had on individuals within the community.

Training played a significant role in shaping her mascot skills. With six years of experience and multiple mascot camps, Dawna mastered the art of large gestures and engaging performances, creating a lively, confident, and fun character for Tiger fans. 

Ultimately, her experience as Victor E. Tiger helped her overcome personal challenges and provided an outlet for self-expression and social connection during her college years. This journey as a mascot became a transformative chapter in her life, leading to a flourishing career as a mobile DJ and radio personality she built around the vibrant energy she brought to her performances as Victor E.

Dawna shared that one of the most important lessons she learned from mascot camp was to do things at the moment and ask for forgiveness later. “So, usually, if I had an idea that was silly or ornery… I would do it. Out of all the things I did, I had to 'ask for forgiveness' once. It was at the MIAA basketball tournament in Kansas City. I was 'too close' to the basketball hoop during the opposing team’s free throws – that is, I was doing a great job of distracting them, and they were missing their shots.”

We also have some new Victor E. Tiger mascots on Fort Hays Tech | North Central and Fort Hays Tech | Northwest campuses. 

Raynie Harvey and Genesis Harvey-Carver are stepping into the exciting role of serving as Victor E. Tiger as part of a broader initiative to celebrate their institutions’ affiliation with Fort Hays State University.

Raynie’s journey began when she was invited to serve as Victor E. Tiger for an event that brought together the three institutions, and she was eager to ensure that Fort Hays Tech | Northwest was represented with enthusiasm.

Raynie has already participated in a variety of events in her new role, including launch celebrations, the Flatlanders Festival in Goodland, and school visits where she engages with younger students and fosters community connections. Whether interacting with children during lunch or participating in local festivities, Raynie's goal is to reflect the values of Tiger Nation through her animated presence as Victor E. She aims to create fun, positive experiences that reinforce the spirit of her institution.

Understanding the importance of audience engagement, Raynie also emphasizes the theatrical nature of mascotting. She believes a successful mascot must know how to interact with the crowd to inspire participation and excitement.

Similarly, Genesis Harvey-Carver has had the opportunity to serve as our Fort Hays Tech | North Central Victor E. Tiger.

 “Growing up, I loved the Victor E. Tiger mascot. My parents had me at a young age, so I spent much time around FHSU, and Victor E. was always my favorite part. Seeing the joy and excitement he brought to people and children made me want to do the same for others. I was also a cheerleader in high school; school spirit has always meant so much to me. I love bringing energy and positivity to those around me, and being part of something that uplifts others is truly special.”

I hope this story brought you a big smile – It did me! 

Please be sure to help celebrate Victor E. Tiger’s birthday. 

A listing of events can be found here: <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/">https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

Victor E. Tiger will also visit Wilson Elementary School, Roosevelt Elementary School, and Holy Family Elementary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU PresidentYou can usually find him holding court in Gross Memorial Coliseum and the Max Jones Fieldhouse at Fort Hays Tech | Northwest in Goodland and roaming the campus of Fort Hays Tech | North Central. He’s Victor E. Tiger, our beloved mascot, and right now, he is looking forward to his 25th birthday bash at the Tiger’s basketball game on February 22.Sharing his birthday with fans and students is a joy for Victor E. He treasures the heartfelt birthday cards he receives, especially frames decorated by young fans featuring their picture with him. The community singing “Happy Birthday” adds an extra layer of happiness, making it a truly memorable occasion.Victor’s birthday wishes this year include hoping to see the cheer squad succeed in competition and for both the men's and women’s basketball teams to win the MIAA tournament. He also wishes to keep his stripes free of gray hair for at least a few more years.How did it all begin 25 years ago? The journey to establish Victor E. Tiger as the university mascot started in the late 1990s when President Ed Hammond and Athletic Director Tom Spicer aimed to create a cohesive and recognizable mascot to represent FHSU. Larry Dreiling, who had served as the mascot in the late 1970s, played a pivotal role in this effort. He not only funded the initial mascot suit but also continued to support the project in various ways.In the spring of 2000, after extensive design work by University Art Director Mary Ridgeway—who went through approximately 50 iterations and sought community input—the new mascot was unveiled in conjunction with the issue of the 2000 Reveille yearbook. The live reveal took place on April 3, 2000, at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History, and the new logo was made available on university merchandise. The mascot was heralded then as the “first-ever and one-of-a-kind, ‘official’ Tiger mascot.”Over the years, Victor E. has become a beloved symbol for students and alumni and a cherished figure within the local community, embodying the pride of Fort Hays State University.I thought it would be fun to get an “insider's perspective” and catch up with one of my favorites, Dawna Evers, who served as Victor E. Tiger from 2008-2012. Dawna’s journey as Victor E. Tiger at Fort Hays State University is inspiring. Her passion for “mascotting” began at an early age when, at just five years old, she decided she wanted to become a mascot after watching her high school’s Bronco mascot. This aspiration led her to become the first mascot at Mustang North in middle school and later the inaugural mascot at Olathe Northwest High School in Kansas.Dawna’s love for the role carried into her college years. In the spring of 2008, she tried out for Victor E. Tiger during her college visit and was thrilled to land the role. This experience allowed her to immerse herself in FHSU's vibrant spirit and community.Dawna's preparation for mascot events was rigorous. She would hydrate days in advance, ensuring she was ready for the physically demanding role. On the day of events, she would meticulously prepare by packing everything she needed, from Victor E.’s&nbsp;body&nbsp;to ice packs for cooling down during breaks. Once fully zipped up, she entirely transformed into Victor E., setting aside her personal life and embracing the energetic persona of the mascot.Dawna’s time as Victor E. Tiger was filled with memorable moments. She highlighted a poignant farewell at her last home game, where she received a standing ovation, an emotional recognition of her contribution as a mascot. She also formed a special bond with a little girl named Leila, who looked forward to their interactions at games. Their connection emphasized the impact Victor E had on individuals within the community.Training played a significant role in shaping her mascot skills. With six years of experience and multiple mascot camps, Dawna mastered the art of large gestures and engaging performances, creating a lively, confident, and fun character for Tiger fans. Ultimately, her experience as Victor E. Tiger helped her overcome personal challenges and provided an outlet for self-expression and social connection during her college years. This journey as a mascot became a transformative chapter in her life, leading to a flourishing career as a mobile DJ and radio personality she built around the vibrant energy she brought to her performances as Victor E.Dawna shared that one of the most important lessons she learned from mascot camp was to do things at the moment and ask for forgiveness later. “So, usually, if I had an idea that was silly or ornery… I would do it. Out of all the things I did, I had to 'ask for forgiveness' once. It was at the MIAA basketball tournament in Kansas City. I was 'too close' to the basketball hoop during the opposing team’s free throws – that is, I was doing a great job of distracting them, and they were missing their shots.”We also have some new Victor E. Tiger mascots on Fort Hays Tech | North Central and Fort Hays Tech | Northwest campuses. Raynie Harvey and Genesis Harvey-Carver are stepping into the exciting role of serving as Victor E. Tiger as part of a broader initiative to celebrate their institutions’ affiliation with Fort Hays State University.Raynie’s journey began when she was invited to serve as Victor E. Tiger for an event that brought together the three institutions, and she was eager to ensure that Fort Hays Tech | Northwest was represented with enthusiasm.Raynie has already participated in a variety of events in her new role, including launch celebrations, the Flatlanders Festival in Goodland, and school visits where she engages with younger students and fosters community connections. Whether interacting with children during lunch or participating in local festivities, Raynie's goal is to reflect the values of Tiger Nation through her animated presence as Victor E. She aims to create fun, positive experiences that reinforce the spirit of her institution.Understanding the importance of audience engagement, Raynie also emphasizes the theatrical nature of mascotting. She believes a successful mascot must know how to interact with the crowd to inspire participation and excitement.Similarly, Genesis Harvey-Carver has had the opportunity to serve as our Fort Hays Tech | North Central Victor E. Tiger. “Growing up, I loved the Victor E. Tiger mascot. My parents had me at a young age, so I spent much time around FHSU, and Victor E. was always my favorite part. Seeing the joy and excitement he brought to people and children made me want to do the same for others. I was also a cheerleader in high school; school spirit has always meant so much to me. I love bringing energy and positivity to those around me, and being part of something that uplifts others is truly special.”I hope this story brought you a big smile – It did me! Please be sure to help celebrate Victor E. Tiger’s birthday. A listing of events can be found here: <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/">https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>. Victor E. Tiger will also visit Wilson Elementary School, Roosevelt Elementary School, and Holy Family Elementary.Happy Birthday, Victor E. Tiger!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738175139663.png" alt="FHSU" />
 <figcaption>FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>

Heart of a Tiger: Victor E. Tiger turns 25

Three-day weather outlook

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs played host to the Plainville Cardinals
in a key Mid-Continent League showdown, and the Lady Monarchs and the
Plainville boys came away with victories.

TMP’s Brooke Koenigsman scored 10 of her game-high 23 points
in the first quarter on a night where she surpassed 1,000 career points, and
the Monarchs cruised to a 77-35 victory.

The Monarchs (11-7 5-2 MCL), who had struggled with slow starts in recent
games, wasted no time finding a rhythm.

Koenigsman scored the game’s first bucket to go up 2-0. Those
points put her past 1,000 for her career at TMP. After being briefly honored
during a timeout, she scored eight more points in the first quarter. That,
combined with five points each from Hannah Rose and Claire Schippers and a pair
of Shalee Gottschalk three-pointers, helped the Monarchs rush out to a 28-3 lead
after the first quarter.

It was more of the same in the second quarter as Koenigsman
added seven more points on her way to a game-high 23, and TMP led at halftime
47-13.

The Monarchs outscored Plainville by seven in the third
quarter and, with the clock running in the fourth period, claimed the 77-35 victory.

Koenigsman led three in double-figures for the Monarchs.
Shalee Gottschalk scored a career-high 11 points, and Claire Schippers finished
with 13 points.

The TMP boys hadn’t played an overtime game in more than
two years, but after Thursday night, they had played two in less than a week.


They came up short in a 76-70 double-overtime loss to Plainville.

Thursday night’s contest was a back-and-forth affair from
the opening tipoff.

After TMP led 7-4 early, Plainville answered with a 9-0 run
to lead by six at 13-7.

The Monarchs answered right back thanks to a 12-0 run to
lead 19-13.

TMP matched that six-point lead twice in the quarter, only
to see Plainville cut the TMP lead to 25-22 at halftime.

The Cardinals brought all the momentum from their locker
room for the second half, outscoring TMP 20-9 in the third quarter and led
42-38 through three quarters.

TMP’s Ty Schmeidler scored 23 of his game-high 28 points in
the second half and 17 in the two overtime periods. 

His three-pointer in the final seconds of the fourth quarter
tied the game at 52 and sent the game to overtime.

In the first extra frame, the Monarchs led by as many as
four points but could not secure the victory at the free-throw line.

In the second overtime Plainville made 11-of-15 free throws
while TMP made just four of eight. The Cardinals outscored TMP 15-9 in the
final frame.

Plaine went on to secure the 76-70 2OT victory.

Schmeidler led all scorers with 28 points. Plainville’s
Jayden Morris led four scorers in double-figures with 14 points

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739515484768.png" alt="Brooke Koenigsman went over 1,000 points scored Thursday against Plainville" />
 <figcaption>Brooke Koenigsman went over 1,000 points scored Thursday against Plainville</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs played host to the Plainville Cardinals
in a key Mid-Continent League showdown, and the Lady Monarchs and the
Plainville boys came away with victories.GIRLS: TMP 77, Plainville 35TMP’s Brooke Koenigsman scored 10 of her game-high 23 points
in the first quarter on a night where she surpassed 1,000 career points, and
the Monarchs cruised to a 77-35 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2034079704&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/john-linn-postgame-interview-4" title="John Linn Postgame Interview vs Plainville (Feb 13th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">John Linn Postgame Interview vs Plainville (Feb 13th 25)</a></div></div>The Monarchs (11-7 5-2 MCL), who had struggled with slow starts in recent
games, wasted no time finding a rhythm.Koenigsman scored the game’s first bucket to go up 2-0. Those
points put her past 1,000 for her career at TMP. After being briefly honored
during a timeout, she scored eight more points in the first quarter. That,
combined with five points each from Hannah Rose and Claire Schippers and a pair
of Shalee Gottschalk three-pointers, helped the Monarchs rush out to a 28-3 lead
after the first quarter.It was more of the same in the second quarter as Koenigsman
added seven more points on her way to a game-high 23, and TMP led at halftime
47-13.The Monarchs outscored Plainville by seven in the third
quarter and, with the clock running in the fourth period, claimed the 77-35 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2034080592&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-highlights-vs" title="TMP WBKB Highlights vs Plainville (feb 13th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights vs Plainville (feb 13th 25)</a></div></div>Koenigsman led three in double-figures for the Monarchs.
Shalee Gottschalk scored a career-high 11 points, and Claire Schippers finished
with 13 points.BOYS: Plainville 76, TMP 70The TMP boys hadn’t played an overtime game in more than
two years, but after Thursday night, they had played two in less than a week.
They came up short in a 76-70 double-overtime loss to Plainville.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2034079112&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bill-meagher-postgame-5" title="Bill Meagher Postgame Interview vs Plainville (Feb 13th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Bill Meagher Postgame Interview vs Plainville (Feb 13th 25)</a></div></div>Thursday night’s contest was a back-and-forth affair from
the opening tipoff.After TMP led 7-4 early, Plainville answered with a 9-0 run
to lead by six at 13-7.The Monarchs answered right back thanks to a 12-0 run to
lead 19-13.TMP matched that six-point lead twice in the quarter, only
to see Plainville cut the TMP lead to 25-22 at halftime.The Cardinals brought all the momentum from their locker
room for the second half, outscoring TMP 20-9 in the third quarter and led
42-38 through three quarters.TMP’s Ty Schmeidler scored 23 of his game-high 28 points in
the second half and 17 in the two overtime periods. His three-pointer in the final seconds of the fourth quarter
tied the game at 52 and sent the game to overtime.In the first extra frame, the Monarchs led by as many as
four points but could not secure the victory at the free-throw line.In the second overtime Plainville made 11-of-15 free throws
while TMP made just four of eight. The Cardinals outscored TMP 15-9 in the
final frame.Plaine went on to secure the 76-70 2OT victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2034080324&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-mbkb-highlights-vs-1" title="TMP MBKB Highlights vs Plainville (feb 13th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB Highlights vs Plainville (feb 13th 25)</a></div></div>Schmeidler led all scorers with 28 points. Plainville’s
Jayden Morris led four scorers in double-figures with 14 points

🏀TMP girls cruise; boys drop 2OT thriller with Plainville

TMP-Marian vs Plainville Thursday, Feb. 13 – 6:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Al Billinger Fieldhouse

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2171013">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs return home for a key MCL matchup with the Plainville Cardinals on Thursday night at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.&nbsp;

The girls' game will tip off at 6:00 p.m. from Hays , and the boys will follow on the Monarchs Sports Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian vs Plainville Thursday, Feb. 13 – 6:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Al Billinger FieldhouseRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2171013">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs return home for a key MCL matchup with the Plainville Cardinals on Thursday night at Al Billinger Fieldhouse.&nbsp;The girls' game will tip off at 6:00 p.m. from Hays , and the boys will follow on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian returns homes for MCL showdown with Plainville

Join Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas for a special ribbon cutting on Friday, February 14at 9 a.m. along with Bishop Vincke and the Hays Chamber staff.

This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the power of love and compassion in action! 

Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas is excited to welcome you to our new Hays office and thrift store. This beautiful new facility will allow us to better serve families in need throughout northern Kansas, providing essential resources like food, clothing, counseling, pregnancy support, and much more.

Join us as we celebrate this milestone for our community—a space dedicated to hope, dignity, and care for all who walk through our doors.

• Hays Chamber Ribbon Cutting • Building Blessing by Bishop Vincke • Facility Tours • Food &amp; Refreshments

This Valentine’s Day, let’s come together to celebrate new beginnings and the positive impact we can make when we care for our neighbors in need.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739460308729.png" alt="Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>CCNKJoin Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas for a special ribbon cutting on Friday, February 14at 9 a.m. along with Bishop Vincke and the Hays Chamber staff.This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the power of love and compassion in action! Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas is excited to welcome you to our new Hays office and thrift store. This beautiful new facility will allow us to better serve families in need throughout northern Kansas, providing essential resources like food, clothing, counseling, pregnancy support, and much more.Join us as we celebrate this milestone for our community—a space dedicated to hope, dignity, and care for all who walk through our doors.Event Highlights:• Hays Chamber Ribbon Cutting • Building Blessing by Bishop Vincke • Facility Tours • Food &amp; RefreshmentsThis Valentine’s Day, let’s come together to celebrate new beginnings and the positive impact we can make when we care for our neighbors in need.

Ribbon cutting Friday for Catholic Charities in Hays

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Sarah Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director about February Match Month, during which donations are tripled.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: February is Match Month for Heartland Community Foundation" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=hbfja-17f581a-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser talks with Sarah Meitner, Heartland Community Foundation executive director about February Match Month, during which donations are tripled.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: February is Match Month for Heartland Community Foundation 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Olathe East High School senior Grace Springer told lawmakers her life “changed forever” when a classmate brought a gun to school&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/04/u-s-senator-state-political-leaders-torn-by-school-shooting-at-olathe-high-school/">in 2022</a>, opened fire and injured an administrator and school resource officer.

The next day, she said, “I was terrified to go anywhere.”

“I worried that another shooting could happen to me at any time,” Springer said. “Grocery stores or movie theaters — nowhere I went felt safe.”

“No one deserves to live in a place where gun violence is a constant fear,” she added.

Members of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hcr5006/" target="_blank">House Concurrent Resolution 5006,</a>&nbsp;which would present to voters a constitutional amendment that recognizes the God-given right to own a firearm, ammunition and accessories.

The proposal would apply a “strict scrutiny” to the right, invoking a legal term with the goal of blocking any future restrictions on gun rights. That means even armor-piercing bullets could be protected, according to testimony from proponents.

Springer, who said the constitutional amendment would put guns in the hands of felons and abusers, was one of two opponents to speak at a Feb. 5 hearing on the resolution, although opponents who submitted testimony outnumber proponents 32-13. The other opponent who spoke, Nick Reinecker, said the resolution doesn’t provide enough freedom for gun owners.

The resolution has the support of 67 sponsors in the House, as well as Attorney General Kris Kobach.

The proposed constitutional amendment refers to “a natural and fundamental right” to carry guns, which Kobach defined for committee members as “a God-given right, or if one doesn’t believe in God, then a right that is of the very essence of human logic and human nature.”

“It’s a right that government doesn’t create,” Kobach said.

Megan Hilbish, executive director of the Kansas State Rifle Association, said it was necessary to clarify the right to possess ammunition and accessories to ensure that guns could be used for safety and sport. She identified herself as a certified firearms instructor and competitive shooter.

“A firearm is a tool that is not just used for self defense,” she said. “It is a tool that can do a lot of really neat, impressive things, including the sports side of shooting.”

Rep. Dan Osman, an Overland Park Democrat, presented a challenge to supporters: Could any of them identify a law passed by the Legislature that infringes on the right to bear arms? No one offered an example.

“I am not aware of any that have infringed on our rights,” said Tammy Bartels, a Lawrence resident and director of the Kansas chapter of Women for Gun Rights. “But that does not mean that that will not happen in the future.”

Richard Condon, a U.S. citizen with a distinct Scottish accent, talked of his service in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces in the 1990s in Yugoslavia, as a private security contractor in Afghanistan, and as a law enforcement officer in Johnson County.

“No, I’m not James Bond,” he said, although no one indicated they thought he was. “What I am is a guardian.”

Condon asserted without offering evidence that he knows “for a fact” that members of a violent Venezuelan gang are present in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739384237436.png" alt="Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach testifies Feb. 5, 2025, in favor of a constitutional amendment establishing the God-given right to own guns, ammunition and firearm accessories. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Legislate video)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach testifies Feb. 5, 2025, in favor of a constitutional amendment establishing the God-given right to own guns, ammunition and firearm accessories. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from Kansas Legislate video)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a> TOPEKA — Olathe East High School senior Grace Springer told lawmakers her life “changed forever” when a classmate brought a gun to school&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/04/u-s-senator-state-political-leaders-torn-by-school-shooting-at-olathe-high-school/">in 2022</a>, opened fire and injured an administrator and school resource officer.The next day, she said, “I was terrified to go anywhere.”“I worried that another shooting could happen to me at any time,” Springer said. “Grocery stores or movie theaters — nowhere I went felt safe.”“No one deserves to live in a place where gun violence is a constant fear,” she added.Members of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hcr5006/" target="_blank">House Concurrent Resolution 5006,</a>&nbsp;which would present to voters a constitutional amendment that recognizes the God-given right to own a firearm, ammunition and accessories. The proposal would apply a “strict scrutiny” to the right, invoking a legal term with the goal of blocking any future restrictions on gun rights. That means even armor-piercing bullets could be protected, according to testimony from proponents.Springer, who said the constitutional amendment would put guns in the hands of felons and abusers, was one of two opponents to speak at a Feb. 5 hearing on the resolution, although opponents who submitted testimony outnumber proponents 32-13. The other opponent who spoke, Nick Reinecker, said the resolution doesn’t provide enough freedom for gun owners.The resolution has the support of 67 sponsors in the House, as well as Attorney General Kris Kobach.The proposed constitutional amendment refers to “a natural and fundamental right” to carry guns, which Kobach defined for committee members as “a God-given right, or if one doesn’t believe in God, then a right that is of the very essence of human logic and human nature.”“It’s a right that government doesn’t create,” Kobach said.Megan Hilbish, executive director of the Kansas State Rifle Association, said it was necessary to clarify the right to possess ammunition and accessories to ensure that guns could be used for safety and sport. She identified herself as a certified firearms instructor and competitive shooter.“A firearm is a tool that is not just used for self defense,” she said. “It is a tool that can do a lot of really neat, impressive things, including the sports side of shooting.”Rep. Dan Osman, an Overland Park Democrat, presented a challenge to supporters: Could any of them identify a law passed by the Legislature that infringes on the right to bear arms? No one offered an example.“I am not aware of any that have infringed on our rights,” said Tammy Bartels, a Lawrence resident and director of the Kansas chapter of Women for Gun Rights. “But that does not mean that that will not happen in the future.”Richard Condon, a U.S. citizen with a distinct Scottish accent, talked of his service in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces in the 1990s in Yugoslavia, as a private security contractor in Afghanistan, and as a law enforcement officer in Johnson County.“No, I’m not James Bond,” he said, although no one indicated they thought he was. “What I am is a guardian.”Condon asserted without offering evidence that he knows “for a fact” that members of a violent Venezuelan gang are present in Kansas.“These gang members are known for their vicious and brutal tactics, giving no consideration to our laws or our law enforcement officers,” Condon said. “Swift and decisive legal action against criminal fire on possession should be your priority.”

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