<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks with&nbsp;Dan Lara, new director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dDrdcEkTobE?si=fD1ma9OWoftMmfUN" 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><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks with&nbsp;Dan Lara, new director of the Kansas Small Business Development Center.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Dan Lara, director Kansas Small Business Development Center

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executives Brian Weimer and Mike&nbsp;</i>Niernberger&nbsp;<i>discuss long-term care insurance with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Insurance Planning Incorporated: Long Term Care Insurance" 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=ixgjr-1816bcf-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><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">Insurance Planning, Inc.</a>&nbsp;account executives Brian Weimer and Mike&nbsp;</i>Niernberger&nbsp;<i>discuss long-term care insurance with Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Insurance Planning on planning for long-term care

<b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Three unique types of art will be highlighted at the newest exhibition opening Friday at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th.

"These are three Hays professionals who have been retired from what their other careers were but are still the most amazing artists," said Brenda Meder, executive director of the Hays Art Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Layered, Frayed and Appliqued" aptly describes the fiber art by Paulette VonLintel Karlin, that will be displayed in the Front Gallery.&nbsp;

Meder describes Karlin's work as not quilts, but "brilliant fabric collage upcycled from other things. Just stunning with beautiful color and textures and form. ... You can see her strong ties to Florida where she used to live."

The Hall Gallery will feature a mixed-media collage assemblage exhibition, "Time for Collage," by Cal Mahin, a local award-winning artist and former Colby schools art teacher.&nbsp;

Mahin, in his artist's statement said philosophical, symbolism and social statements are the dominant subjects in his current works, with some humor finding its way into the narrative.&nbsp;

A body of work by photographer and former Hays Arts Council board member Leon Staab, "Close to Home," will grace the walls of the Founders Gallery.

Staab lives in a loft in downtown Hays and his exhibit "Close to Home" features many photos from taken from a second story perspective.

"It's not all that but there will be a lot of rooftop photography," Meder said.&nbsp;

The opening reception is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Feb. 28. The trio of exhibits will remain on display through April 16.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="POST PODCAST: Hays Arts Council upcoming exhibitions" 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=jtbg2-180e552-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><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Three unique types of art will be highlighted at the newest exhibition opening Friday at the Hays Arts Center, 112 E. 11th.</p><p>"These are three Hays professionals who have been retired from what their other careers were but are still the most amazing artists," said Brenda Meder, executive director of the Hays Art Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740603592005.jpeg" alt=""Sanibel Dolls" and other fiber art by Paulette VonLintel Karlin. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>"Sanibel Dolls" and other fiber art by Paulette VonLintel Karlin. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740604750458.jpeg" alt=""Leopard &amp; Cobra" fiber art by Paulette VonLintel Karlin. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
                        <figcaption>"Leopard &amp; Cobra" fiber art by Paulette VonLintel Karlin. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>"Layered, Frayed and Appliqued" aptly describes the fiber art by Paulette VonLintel Karlin, that will be displayed in the Front Gallery.&nbsp;</p><p>Meder describes Karlin's work as not quilts, but "brilliant fabric collage upcycled from other things. Just stunning with beautiful color and textures and form. ... You can see her strong ties to Florida where she used to live."</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740603994895.jpeg" alt=""Catch a Falling Star Where the Red Tree Grows" by Cal Mahin. Photo by Becky Kiser" />
                        <figcaption>"Catch a Falling Star Where the Red Tree Grows" by Cal Mahin. Photo by Becky Kiser</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740604442380.jpeg" alt=""The Dance is Over When the Drums Stop" by Cal Mahin. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>"The Dance is Over When the Drums Stop" by Cal Mahin. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The Hall Gallery will feature a mixed-media collage assemblage exhibition, "Time for Collage," by Cal Mahin, a local award-winning artist and former Colby schools art teacher.&nbsp;</p><p>Mahin, in his artist's statement said philosophical, symbolism and social statements are the dominant subjects in his current works, with some humor finding its way into the narrative.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740604227674.jpeg" alt="Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, and Leon Staab, Hays photographer, discuss the layout design of his photo exhibit which opens Friday evening. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director, and Leon Staab, Hays photographer, discuss the layout design of his photo exhibit which opens Friday evening. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740603221454.jpeg" alt=""Blue Moon" by Leon Staab" />
                        <figcaption>"Blue Moon" by Leon Staab</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740604984672.jpeg" alt="Photo by Leon Staab" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Leon Staab</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>A body of work by photographer and former Hays Arts Council board member Leon Staab, "Close to Home," will grace the walls of the Founders Gallery.</p><p>Staab lives in a loft in downtown Hays and his exhibit "Close to Home" features many photos from taken from a second story perspective.</p><p>"It's not all that but there will be a lot of rooftop photography," Meder said.&nbsp;</p><p>The opening reception is from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Feb. 28. The trio of exhibits will remain on display through April 16.&nbsp;</p>

🎙POST PODCAST: Opening reception Friday for Hays Arts Center new exhibitions

Reporter Cristina Janney talks with Women Who Lead board member Nancy Jeter about their annual Power of the Purse fundraiser and their past and present projects on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

Tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://womenwholead.org/">womenwholead.org</a>. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Women Who Lead - Power of the Purse" 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=qy9du-1816c09-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><p>Reporter Cristina Janney talks with Women Who Lead board member Nancy Jeter about their annual Power of the Purse fundraiser and their past and present projects on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740507392723.jpeg" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Tickets can be purchased at&nbsp;<a href="http://womenwholead.org/">womenwholead.org</a>. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday.</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Women Who Lead prepares for Power of Purse fundraiser

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the Heart of America group and its work on commercial and housing development in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays: Heart of America Organization" 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=ae6ub-1810294-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><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the Heart of America group and its work on commercial and housing development in Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses Heart of American group

🎙 POST PODCAST: Artificial sweeteners: Are they harmful?

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman starts a new series on leadership and entrepreneurship. His guest is Hays business owner and former educator Kris Munsch.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P52EDthuzgU?si=9S6c4zKvYDcSntbr" 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><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman starts a new series on leadership and entrepreneurship. His guest is Hays business owner and former educator Kris Munsch.</i></p>

🎤 Forward Ever: Kris Munsch of Hays on leadership, entrepreneurship

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Monique Koerner, K-State Research and Extension Family and Community Wellness Agent about the upcoming programs "Becoming a Mom" and "Walk with Ease."

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Programs for 'Becoming a Mom' and 'Walking with Ease'" 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=rm5mi-17f7b29-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><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Monique Koerner, K-State Research and Extension Family and Community Wellness Agent about the upcoming programs "Becoming a Mom" and "Walk with Ease."</p>

 🎙 Post Podcast: Programs offered for 'Becoming a Mom,' 'Walking with Ease'

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Reese Barrick, director of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History about the new exhibition "Water's Extreme Journey," an interactive maze.

We also talk about upcoming Fort Hays State University alumni events with Kim Cebula, director of the FHSU Foundation and Alumni Office.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: 'Water's Extreme Journey' at Sternberg Museum" 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=8qtut-17fb7d0-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><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Reese Barrick, director of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History about the new exhibition "Water's Extreme Journey," an interactive maze.</p><p>We also talk about upcoming Fort Hays State University alumni events with Kim Cebula, director of the FHSU Foundation and Alumni Office.&nbsp;</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: 'Water's Extreme Journey' at Sternberg Museum

<i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about President Trump's recent tariffs and inflation and the effects they might have on the local economy on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays: Inflation and Tariffs" 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=935fz-17fdfbc-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><p><i>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about President Trump's recent tariffs and inflation and the effects they might have on the local economy on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses tariffs, inflation

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

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Collin Bielser, Hays deputy city manager and Shaun Musil, city commissioner, about the latest updates in the R9 long-term water supply project for Hays and Russell.&nbsp;

Other discussion includes highlights of the Feb. 13 city commission meeting.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: R9 water project updates" 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=8638g-17fdfa4-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=""></ifram</div><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Collin Bielser, Hays deputy city manager and Shaun Musil, city commissioner, about the latest updates in the R9 long-term water supply project for Hays and Russell.&nbsp;</p><p>Other discussion includes highlights of the Feb. 13 city commission meeting.&nbsp;</p>

🎙Post Podcast: R9 water project updates

<i>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.</i>

<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><p><i>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.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Options on teen dating violence

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><p>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;</p>

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

The City of Victoria is requesting that no vehicles be parked along the west side of Cathedral Street within the city limits of Victoria. This request is made in an effort to assist snow removal crews in their duties.

City of Russell crews are preparing for a winter storm with 6 to 8 inches of snow expected from Tuesday evening through Wednesday afternoon.

Emergency Snow Routes -A Declaration of Emergency Snow Routes is in effect.

Parking on designated Emergency Snow Routes is prohibited. Vehicles left on these routes may be towed at the owner’s expense.

 Crews will keep Emergency Snow Routes top priority• Once those roads are clear, crews will move to other priority areas (See map for priority areas)

 Follow our social media and sign up for Notify Me at www.russellcity.org for updates• 

If possible, move vehicles off residential streets to help with effective snow removal

• Consider waiting to shovel driveways until plows have passed to avoid extra work. #doubleshovelSanitation 

Services -Crews will make every effort to provide sanitation services, but please understand delays may occur.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Police Department and Emergency Snow Routes" 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=pyuyi-17f7878-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>
Podbean Player
 </div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739323009421.jpeg" alt="Hays snow routes" />
                        <figcaption>Hays snow routes</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739323056886.jpeg" alt="City of Ellis snow routes" />
                        <figcaption>City of Ellis snow routes</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>The City of Victoria is requesting that no vehicles be parked along the west side of Cathedral Street within the city limits of Victoria. This request is made in an effort to assist snow removal crews in their duties.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739323581543.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>City of Russell crews are preparing for a winter storm with 6 to 8 inches of snow expected from Tuesday evening through Wednesday afternoon.</p><p>Emergency Snow Routes -A Declaration of Emergency Snow Routes is in effect.</p><p>Parking on designated Emergency Snow Routes is prohibited. Vehicles left on these routes may be towed at the owner’s expense.</p><p><b>Snow Removal Priorities</b></p><p> Crews will keep Emergency Snow Routes top priority• Once those roads are clear, crews will move to other priority areas (See map for priority areas)</p><p><b>Stay Informed</b></p><p> Follow our social media and sign up for Notify Me at www.russellcity.org for updates• </p><p>If possible, move vehicles off residential streets to help with effective snow removal</p><p>• Consider waiting to shovel driveways until plows have passed to avoid extra work. #doubleshovelSanitation </p><p>Services -Crews will make every effort to provide sanitation services, but please understand delays may occur.</p>

 🎙 Post Podcast: Snow routes Hays, Ellis, Victoria, Russell

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcasts, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the upcoming Western Kansas congressional delegation's trip to Washington, D.C., in April with Sarah Wasinger, of the Chamber in Hays, and Ernestor De La Rosa, ITC Great Plains regional manager of local government and community affairs, the presenting sponsor for the event.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Western Kansas congressional delegation trip to Washington, D.C." 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=g777c-17f191a-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><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcasts, news reporter Becky Kiser talks about the upcoming Western Kansas congressional delegation's trip to Washington, D.C., in April with Sarah Wasinger, of the Chamber in Hays, and Ernestor De La Rosa, ITC Great Plains regional manager of local government and community affairs, the presenting sponsor for the event.</p>

 🎙Post Podcast: Western Kan. delegation trip to Washington, D.C. 

<i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the recent Heartland Community Foundation Solutions Summit on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bc061cf6-69bd-4fe7-94f4-bf49403ecfea">SEE RELATED STORY: Solutions Summit: Ellis County needs to tell its story better</a>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays on Solutions Summit Meeting" 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=mkagb-17ece22-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><p><i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the recent Heartland Community Foundation Solutions Summit on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.</i></p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/bc061cf6-69bd-4fe7-94f4-bf49403ecfea">SEE RELATED STORY: Solutions Summit: Ellis County needs to tell its story better</a></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses Solutions Summit

Forward Ever: Kansas Secretary of Labor Amber Shultz

Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.

For 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.

• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.

• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity

• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.

• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.

o Face painting<br>o Tiger tattoos<br>o Make a birthday hat<br>o Photos with Victor E. Tiger<br>o Special treats<br>o Games, crafts, and more

• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation

• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)

• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State

• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.

• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. 

FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. 

Monday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. 

 Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride. 

More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday" 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=q592s-17eb14a-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><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738175139663.png" alt="FHSU" />
                        <figcaption>FHSU</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Victor E. Tiger is 25 years old and the Fort Hays State University mascot's birthday is being celebrated during February.</p><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser visits with Janette Meis, communications specialist/event planner in the FHSU president's office, along with Scott Cason, chief communications officer.</p><p><i>FHSU University Communications</i></p><p>For 25 years, FHSU spirit has infused athletic and other events with the help of one special character, Victor E. Tiger. During the next month, FHSU will celebrate the 25th birthday of its iconic mascot with a slate of events sure to please Tiger fans of any age.</p><p>• Feb. 7, 10-10:30 a.m. Hays Public Library, children’s story time room. Pre-K children can start their day with a tiger-themed story time and an opportunity to meet Victor E. Tiger.</p><p>• Feb. 8, 2 and 4 p.m. FHSU basketball games, Gross Memorial Coliseum. Former Victor E. Tiger mascot DJ Dawna will entertain the audience with her famous jams.</p><p>• Feb. 15, 10:00 a.m.-Noon. Walmart Supercenter - in front of the Tiger Spirit Store. Victor E. Tiger Autograph and Photo Opportunity</p><p>• Feb. 19, 2-4 p.m. FHSU Makerspace - Picken Hall 102. Stop at the Makerspace to laser-cut a tiger-themed birthday card for Victor.</p><p>• Feb. 22. FHSU Basketball Game. Gross Memorial Coliseum. Victor E. Tiger’s official Big Birthday Bash.</p><p>• 1-2 p.m. free birthday activities</p><p>o Face painting<br>o Tiger tattoos<br>o Make a birthday hat<br>o Photos with Victor E. Tiger<br>o Special treats<br>o Games, crafts, and more</p><p>• 2 p.m. FHSU Women’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State with special birthday halftime presentation</p><p>• 3-4 p.m. Free birthday activities (see list above)</p><p>• 4 p.m. FHSU Men’s Basketball Game vs. Pittsburg State</p><p>• Feb. 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Defiance Downtown. Tiger Trivia Night. Join the FHSU History Club for a tiger and mascot-themed trivia night, with a special appearance by Victor E. Tiger.</p><p>• Feb. 20, 3-4 p.m. Memorial Union - Stouffer Lounge. History of Victor E. panel. Learn about the history of the tiger mascot and the origin story of Victor E. Tiger with panelists FHSU President Emeritus Dr. Edward Hammond, former Victor E. Mascot Larry Dreiling, and FHSU Art Director Scott Gross. Instruction and Outreach Librarian Cyndi Landis at Forsyth Library will moderate the panel. Refreshments provided. </p><p><b>ONLINE EVENTS</b></p><p><b>Birthday Card Contest </b></p><p>FHSU Online is hosting a contest for online students to create a birthday card for Victor’s 25th Birthday. To enter the contest, draw, paint, design, or craft a card to be delivered in the mail by February 20th. Mail your birthday card to FHSU Online, 600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601. All cards in the contest will be displayed at the big birthday celebration on February 22. Prizes will be awarded to the top five card designs. </p><p><b>Mascot Trivia Game</b></p><p>Monday, February 17 – Monday, February 24 Online at Tiger2Tiger. Test your knowledge of tigers and mascots and FHSU history with this online trivia game. Learn about Victor’s background along the way. </p><p><b>Tiger Tales</b></p><p> Larry Dreiling Online Exhibit at <a href="https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/">https://scholars.fhsu.edu/tiger_tales/</a>. Watch an oral history of ‘80 and ‘85 alum Larry Dreiling as he discusses his time serving as the tiger mascot and why he continues to support the mascot’s efforts to spread FHSU pride. </p><p>More information about Victor E. Tiger’s birthday events is available at:<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/"> https://www.fhsu.edu/president/tiger-birthday/</a>.</p>

🎙 Victor E. Tiger celebrates his 25th birthday 

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Julie Ryder, executive director of the Downtown Hays Development Corporation about upcoming events, and the internship available for the position of downtown market manager.&nbsp;

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Downtown Hays February events and activities" 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=sb9gd-17e7454-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><p>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Julie Ryder, executive director of the Downtown Hays Development Corporation about upcoming events, and the internship available for the position of downtown market manager.&nbsp;</p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Downtown Hays February events, activities

<i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the effects of the availability of water in Hays on the future of economic growth.</i>

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays, Water Use in Business" 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=ssbhi-17dd90c-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><p><i>Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about the effects of the availability of water in Hays on the future of economic growth.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Doug Williams of Grow Hays discusses water, community growth