Friday, February 21
 KKQY: Trego MWBKB at
Smith Center, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Garden City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Norton, 5:40pm

Saturday, February 22
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
Oklahoma State, 1:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Pittsburg State, 1:35pm

Sunday, February 23

 none

Friday, February 21
 KKQY: Trego MWBKB at
Smith Center, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Garden City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Norton, 5:40pmSaturday, February 22
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
Oklahoma State, 1:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Pittsburg State, 1:35pmSunday, February 23

 none

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The 7th-ranked Fort Hays State women go for their 10th-straight win when they host Missouri Southern State on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.

The 7th-ranked Fort Hays State women go for their 10th-straight win when they host Missouri Southern State on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-WBB vs. Missouri Southern State" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=jd5zt-180fb51-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-WBB vs. Missouri Southern

By BECKY KISER&nbsp; Hays Post&nbsp;

A request for rezoning from agriculture to residential general district for the proposed Covenant Estates First Addition was unanimously approved by the Hays Area Planning Commission Monday during a public hearing.&nbsp;

The application has been submitted for 20 acres of land at the south end of an agricultural field west of Thunderbird between 33rd and 41st Streets.&nbsp;

The first phase of the development is adjacent to single-family residential areas platted in the late 1970s and early ‘80s along Thunderbird Drive and Oakmont Street in northwest Hays.&nbsp;

Covenant Land &amp; Developing, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, has previously developed housing on Covenant Drive and in King’s Gate Addition near 41st Street.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, said the rezoning request should come before the city commission next month. &nbsp;

Residential general districts are comprised primarily of single-family homes.&nbsp;

The next step will be to plat the area, Kuckelman said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739989941258.png" alt="Proposed Covenant Estates First Addition west of Thunderbird. City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Covenant Estates First Addition west of Thunderbird. City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER&nbsp; Hays Post&nbsp;A request for rezoning from agriculture to residential general district for the proposed Covenant Estates First Addition was unanimously approved by the Hays Area Planning Commission Monday during a public hearing.&nbsp;The application has been submitted for 20 acres of land at the south end of an agricultural field west of Thunderbird between 33rd and 41st Streets.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739990219688.png" alt="Proposed Covenant Estates First Addition west of Thunderbird. City of Hays image" />
 <figcaption>Proposed Covenant Estates First Addition west of Thunderbird. City of Hays image</figcaption>
 </figure>The first phase of the development is adjacent to single-family residential areas platted in the late 1970s and early ‘80s along Thunderbird Drive and Oakmont Street in northwest Hays.&nbsp;Covenant Land &amp; Developing, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, has previously developed housing on Covenant Drive and in King’s Gate Addition near 41st Street.&nbsp; &nbsp;Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, said the rezoning request should come before the city commission next month. &nbsp;Residential general districts are comprised primarily of single-family homes.&nbsp;The next step will be to plat the area, Kuckelman said.&nbsp;

Planning Commission approves rezoning for new Hays housing development

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County EMS department is offering CPR classes in honor of American Heart Month for February.

The EMS agency offers classes for individuals, businesses and organizations. Health care provider courses take longer, while basic CPR classes last a few hours.

According to Ellis County EMS director Danita Schroeder, child care provider CPR classes are on the last Wednesday of each month.

“CPR training is another way to provide life-saving care to somebody who needs it,” Schroeder said. “If somebody collapses and somebody knows CPR, your chances of survival are much greater.”

The courses do require a fee that varies depending on certification. You can learn more at cpr4life@ellisco.net.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739991329175.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County EMS department is offering CPR classes in honor of American Heart Month for February.The EMS agency offers classes for individuals, businesses and organizations. Health care provider courses take longer, while basic CPR classes last a few hours.According to Ellis County EMS director Danita Schroeder, child care provider CPR classes are on the last Wednesday of each month.“CPR training is another way to provide life-saving care to somebody who needs it,” Schroeder said. “If somebody collapses and somebody knows CPR, your chances of survival are much greater.”The courses do require a fee that varies depending on certification. You can learn more at cpr4life@ellisco.net.

Ellis County EMS to host CPR classes this month in Hays

The Chamber in Hays announces the 37th Annual Ag Appreciation event, sponsored by High Plains Farm Credit, is set for Thursday, Feb. 27.&nbsp;

The gathering will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Schenk Building, located on the Ellis County Fairgrounds, 1344 Fairground Rd.&nbsp;

This long-standing tradition honors and celebrates the dedication of farmers and ranchers throughout western Kansas.&nbsp;

The event is free to attend, with the first 300 guests receiving a complementary dinner that includes chili from Gutierrez Mexican Restaurant or green bean and dumpling soup from Gella’s Lb. Diner &amp; Brewing Co.&nbsp;

Hot dogs, cinnamon rolls, and traditional fixings will be provided to accompany the chili, as well as pop, water, and two beer vouchers for attendees aged 21 and over.&nbsp;

The evening will conclude with prize drawings, courtesy of generous member sponsors who help make the celebration possible each year.&nbsp;

“Agriculture is at the heart of our community’s heritage and prosperity,” said Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of The Chamber in Hays. “We host this event to express our gratitude for the unwavering efforts of local farmers and ranchers. Their hard work sustains not only western Kansas, but also helps feed and supply regions well beyond our state lines.”&nbsp;

This year, the Chamber continued the ticketing approach started last year: no paper tickets will be printed for the event.&nbsp;

Instead, “save the date” post cards may be picked up from participating sponsors.&nbsp;

A complete list of sponsors and card distribution locations is available on <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">The Chamber website</a>.&nbsp;

Organizers encourage attendees to hold onto these cards as a reminder of the event details, though they are not required for entry.&nbsp;

The Chamber and its partners want to ensure as many agricultural producers as possible can attend without any barriers.&nbsp;

During the evening, door prize drawings will be held, with items donated by community businesses.&nbsp;

The Chamber expressed appreciation to all sponsors, particularly High Plains Farm Credit for its ongoing commitment to agricultural celebrations.&nbsp;

Participating sponsors provide the resources to ensure attendees enjoy a warm meal, fellowship and entertainment at no cost.&nbsp;

“We want our local producers to feel welcomed and celebrated,” Wasinger said. “Our agrarian community faces many challenges, and the 37th Annual Ag Appreciation is our way of thanking them for feeding our families, strengthening our economy and helping to preserve the rural character of Kansas.”&nbsp;

All members of the agriculture community and their families are encouraged to attend.&nbsp;

For additional information contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas at 785-628-8201 or visit <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">hayschamber.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580746901375.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Chamber in Hays&nbsp;&nbsp;The Chamber in Hays announces the 37th Annual Ag Appreciation event, sponsored by High Plains Farm Credit, is set for Thursday, Feb. 27.&nbsp;The gathering will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Schenk Building, located on the Ellis County Fairgrounds, 1344 Fairground Rd.&nbsp;This long-standing tradition honors and celebrates the dedication of farmers and ranchers throughout western Kansas.&nbsp;The event is free to attend, with the first 300 guests receiving a complementary dinner that includes chili from Gutierrez Mexican Restaurant or green bean and dumpling soup from Gella’s Lb. Diner &amp; Brewing Co.&nbsp;Hot dogs, cinnamon rolls, and traditional fixings will be provided to accompany the chili, as well as pop, water, and two beer vouchers for attendees aged 21 and over.&nbsp;The evening will conclude with prize drawings, courtesy of generous member sponsors who help make the celebration possible each year.&nbsp;“Agriculture is at the heart of our community’s heritage and prosperity,” said Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO of The Chamber in Hays. “We host this event to express our gratitude for the unwavering efforts of local farmers and ranchers. Their hard work sustains not only western Kansas, but also helps feed and supply regions well beyond our state lines.”&nbsp;This year, the Chamber continued the ticketing approach started last year: no paper tickets will be printed for the event.&nbsp;Instead, “save the date” post cards may be picked up from participating sponsors.&nbsp;A complete list of sponsors and card distribution locations is available on <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">The Chamber website</a>.&nbsp;Organizers encourage attendees to hold onto these cards as a reminder of the event details, though they are not required for entry.&nbsp;The Chamber and its partners want to ensure as many agricultural producers as possible can attend without any barriers.&nbsp;During the evening, door prize drawings will be held, with items donated by community businesses.&nbsp;The Chamber expressed appreciation to all sponsors, particularly High Plains Farm Credit for its ongoing commitment to agricultural celebrations.&nbsp;Participating sponsors provide the resources to ensure attendees enjoy a warm meal, fellowship and entertainment at no cost.&nbsp;“We want our local producers to feel welcomed and celebrated,” Wasinger said. “Our agrarian community faces many challenges, and the 37th Annual Ag Appreciation is our way of thanking them for feeding our families, strengthening our economy and helping to preserve the rural character of Kansas.”&nbsp;All members of the agriculture community and their families are encouraged to attend.&nbsp;For additional information contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas at 785-628-8201 or visit <a href="https://hayschamber.com/" target="_blank">hayschamber.com</a>.&nbsp;

Chamber in Hays invites area farmers, ranchers to Ag Appreciation 

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&amp;id=13237">BOX SCORE</a>

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State used a strong second half to defeat Missouri Southern State 70-59 Thursday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers trailed by one at halftime but used a 16-3 run to start the second half to take control. The Tigers improved to 17-8 overall and 10-6 in the MIAA. The Lions dropped to 11-14 overall and 6-10 in the MIAA.

The Tigers had to fight off a sluggish start offensively to climb their way back in it by halftime. FHSU missed their first 10 shots and fell behind 6-0 and eventually trailed by eight (29-21) before they pulled within 33-32 at halftime on a Lucas Hammeke three-point play with under two seconds to play.

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;hit the first bucket of the second half to swing the lead to the Tigers and then Kyle Grill&nbsp;followed with 3-point splash to put the Tigers up four. Hammeke added another bucket on a clinical offensive set to cap a 7-0 burst out of the halftime locker room. After a pair of Missouri Southern free throws, Grill buried a pair of 3-point field goals to push the lead to 10. One more free throw by the Lions was followed by a 3-point field goal from Hammeke to make it a 12-point FHSU lead. 

FHSU held MSSU without a field goal for the first 7:30 of the second half.

The Tigers eventually stretched their lead to 16 points twice before the final margin settled at 11. Nine points was the closest the Lions got the rest of the way.&nbsp;

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;finished with 26 points to lead the Tigers, hitting 10-of-22 field goal attempts and his only pair of free throws. He was 4-of-8 beyond the 3-point line. Grill, who played with a calf injury, finished with 20 points on 8-of-11 shooting, going 4-of-7 beyond the 3-point line. He also pulled down a team-best nine rebounds. Lucas Hammeke added a career-best 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting from the field. He had a team-high six assists.

The Tigers clamped down on the Lions defensively in the second half, holding them to 26.1 percent shooting and 0-for-10 from 3-point range. The Lions finished at 36 percent overall for the game and just 18.2 percent beyond the 3-point line. FHSU became the third team to hold MSSU under 65 points in a game this season and right on their nation's best scoring defense average of 59 points per game.

Jaden Taylor led four Lions scorers who reached double figures with 15 points. Tyrique Brooks had 13 points, Tyrone Wright had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Martin Macenis added 10 points.

Fort Hays State will host Pittsburg State for Senior Day on Saturday. Senior recognition is scheduled for right after the completion of the women's game. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. It will be the second-to-last home game of the season for FHSU as the makeup game with Nebraska-Kearney will be the following week on February 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740112603235.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Kyle Grill (1) attempts a 3-point shot in the second half of an NCAA men's basketball game against Missouri Southern State on Thursday, February 20, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Kyle Grill (1) attempts a 3-point shot in the second half of an NCAA men's basketball game against Missouri Southern State on Thursday, February 20, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&amp;id=13237">BOX SCORE</a>HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State used a strong second half to defeat Missouri Southern State 70-59 Thursday night at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers trailed by one at halftime but used a 16-3 run to start the second half to take control. The Tigers improved to 17-8 overall and 10-6 in the MIAA. The Lions dropped to 11-14 overall and 6-10 in the MIAA.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2039154348&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/mark-johnson-postgame-1" title="Mark Johnson Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers had to fight off a sluggish start offensively to climb their way back in it by halftime. FHSU missed their first 10 shots and fell behind 6-0 and eventually trailed by eight (29-21) before they pulled within 33-32 at halftime on a Lucas Hammeke three-point play with under two seconds to play.Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;hit the first bucket of the second half to swing the lead to the Tigers and then Kyle Grill&nbsp;followed with 3-point splash to put the Tigers up four. Hammeke added another bucket on a clinical offensive set to cap a 7-0 burst out of the halftime locker room. After a pair of Missouri Southern free throws, Grill buried a pair of 3-point field goals to push the lead to 10. One more free throw by the Lions was followed by a 3-point field goal from Hammeke to make it a 12-point FHSU lead. FHSU held MSSU without a field goal for the first 7:30 of the second half.The Tigers eventually stretched their lead to 16 points twice before the final margin settled at 11. Nine points was the closest the Lions got the rest of the way.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2039154232&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/lucas-hammeke-post-vs-missouri" title="Lucas Hammeke Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Lucas Hammeke Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)</a></div></div>Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;finished with 26 points to lead the Tigers, hitting 10-of-22 field goal attempts and his only pair of free throws. He was 4-of-8 beyond the 3-point line. Grill, who played with a calf injury, finished with 20 points on 8-of-11 shooting, going 4-of-7 beyond the 3-point line. He also pulled down a team-best nine rebounds. Lucas Hammeke added a career-best 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting from the field. He had a team-high six assists.The Tigers clamped down on the Lions defensively in the second half, holding them to 26.1 percent shooting and 0-for-10 from 3-point range. The Lions finished at 36 percent overall for the game and just 18.2 percent beyond the 3-point line. FHSU became the third team to hold MSSU under 65 points in a game this season and right on their nation's best scoring defense average of 59 points per game.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2039152436&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/fhsu-mbkb-highlights-vs-missouri-southern-feb-20th-25" title="Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBB Highlights vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)</a></div></div>Jaden Taylor led four Lions scorers who reached double figures with 15 points. Tyrique Brooks had 13 points, Tyrone Wright had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Martin Macenis added 10 points.UP NEXTFort Hays State will host Pittsburg State for Senior Day on Saturday. Senior recognition is scheduled for right after the completion of the women's game. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. It will be the second-to-last home game of the season for FHSU as the makeup game with Nebraska-Kearney will be the following week on February 26.

🏀 Tigers fight off Missouri Southern with big second half

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=wbball&amp;id=13269">BOX SCORE</a>

HAYS, Kan. - The seventh-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team won its 10th consecutive game Thursday evening, defeating Missouri Southern 64-55 at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers (23-2, 14-2 MIAA) never trailed in the contest while holding the Lions (16-12, 8-8 MIAA) to a shooting percentage of 31.3 percent, their second-worst shooting game of the season.

Fort Hays State also started the season with a 12-game winning streak, making this just the third time in program history that the team has reeled off multiple double-digit winning streaks.

Brooke Loewe&nbsp;finished the game with three assists, giving her 166 for the season to tie the program record that has been in place for 34 years (Kristi Leeper-Meis, 1990-91).

Olivia Hollenbeck won the tip and got the ball to Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;who drove straight to the basket and scored six seconds into the contest. That basket was the first of a dozen for the graduate student who led the way with a season-high 27 points and 15 rebounds to record her third double-double in a row and the 44th of her career.

Both sides cooled off from there, combining for just eight points in the first seven minutes of action. Fort Hays State bounced back down the stretch, shooting 5-of-8 from the floor to finish the quarter with a 16-9 lead.

Kate Dilsaver&nbsp;opened the second quarter with a basket to put the Tigers up nine before the Lions started to claw back, eventually closing within two late in the frame. FHSU bounced back to score the final four points of the half to go into the break up 28-22.Fort Hays State continued to pull away early in the second half, using an 11-4 run to push the lead as high as 13. The Lions answered with another rally, trimming the deficit to six with a banked in 3-pointer just before the end of period horn, 51-45.The Tiger defense helped FHSU hold on down the stretch, limiting the Lions to just 4-of-17 shooting in the final frame (23.5 percent) while forcing three turnovers and blocking one shot.

DeGarmo scored 17 of her 27 points after halftime while adding two steals and one block. Talexa Weeter&nbsp;contributed 11 points and eight rebounds, while Dilsaver totaled 10 points, eight rebounds and two steals.

The Tigers dominated in the paint, outscoring the Lions 44-24. Both teams collected 39 rebounds while Fort Hays State hit 46.3 percent from the floor (25-of-54).

Fort Hays State will return to action on Saturday (Feb. 22) when the Tigers host fifth-ranked Pittsburg State in a top 10 battle. First tip in the Senior Day matchup is set for 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740111102525.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Brooke Loewe (5) attempts a pass in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Missouri Southern State on Thursday, February 20, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Brooke Loewe (5) attempts a pass in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Missouri Southern State on Thursday, February 20, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Nicole Heitmann)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=wbball&amp;id=13269">BOX SCORE</a>HAYS, Kan. - The seventh-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team won its 10th consecutive game Thursday evening, defeating Missouri Southern 64-55 at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers (23-2, 14-2 MIAA) never trailed in the contest while holding the Lions (16-12, 8-8 MIAA) to a shooting percentage of 31.3 percent, their second-worst shooting game of the season.Fort Hays State also started the season with a 12-game winning streak, making this just the third time in program history that the team has reeled off multiple double-digit winning streaks.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2039154588&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/talia-khars-postgame-interview" title="Talia Kahrs Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Talia Kahrs Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)</a></div></div>Brooke Loewe&nbsp;finished the game with three assists, giving her 166 for the season to tie the program record that has been in place for 34 years (Kristi Leeper-Meis, 1990-91).Olivia Hollenbeck won the tip and got the ball to Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;who drove straight to the basket and scored six seconds into the contest. That basket was the first of a dozen for the graduate student who led the way with a season-high 27 points and 15 rebounds to record her third double-double in a row and the 44th of her career.Both sides cooled off from there, combining for just eight points in the first seven minutes of action. Fort Hays State bounced back down the stretch, shooting 5-of-8 from the floor to finish the quarter with a 16-9 lead.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2039153324&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/katie-degarmo-post-vs-missouri" title="Katie DeGarmo Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Katie DeGarmo Postgame vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)</a></div></div>Kate Dilsaver&nbsp;opened the second quarter with a basket to put the Tigers up nine before the Lions started to claw back, eventually closing within two late in the frame. FHSU bounced back to score the final four points of the half to go into the break up 28-22.Fort Hays State continued to pull away early in the second half, using an 11-4 run to push the lead as high as 13. The Lions answered with another rally, trimming the deficit to six with a banked in 3-pointer just before the end of period horn, 51-45.The Tiger defense helped FHSU hold on down the stretch, limiting the Lions to just 4-of-17 shooting in the final frame (23.5 percent) while forcing three turnovers and blocking one shot.DeGarmo scored 17 of her 27 points after halftime while adding two steals and one block. Talexa Weeter&nbsp;contributed 11 points and eight rebounds, while Dilsaver totaled 10 points, eight rebounds and two steals.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2039152804&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=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/fhsu-wbkb-highlights-vs-1" title="#7 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#7 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights vs. Missouri Southern State (February 20, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers dominated in the paint, outscoring the Lions 44-24. Both teams collected 39 rebounds while Fort Hays State hit 46.3 percent from the floor (25-of-54).UP NEXTFort Hays State will return to action on Saturday (Feb. 22) when the Tigers host fifth-ranked Pittsburg State in a top 10 battle. First tip in the Senior Day matchup is set for 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 #7 FHSU women defeat Lions, extend win-streak to 10

Women Who Lead's annual scholarship application period is now open. 

The scholarship is for female residents of Ellis County.

At least three $1,000 scholarships will be awarded for 2025 to women who will be attending Fort Hays State University, Fort Hays Tech North Central or Hays Academy of Hair Design.

Applications are due by March 31. Students find the application at <a href="https://womenwholead.org/">https://womenwholead.org/</a>.

If you have any questions, you can call Women Who Lead Scholarship Committee chairwoman Cristina Janney at 785-301-2077, cjanney@eaglemedia.com&nbsp; or Nancy Jeter at 785-623-1660, nancyjeter5@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739387987763.jpeg" alt="2024 Scholarship poster.jpg" />
 <figcaption>2024 Scholarship poster.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Women Who LeadWomen Who Lead's annual scholarship application period is now open. The scholarship is for female residents of Ellis County.At least three $1,000 scholarships will be awarded for 2025 to women who will be attending Fort Hays State University, Fort Hays Tech North Central or Hays Academy of Hair Design.Applications are due by March 31. Students find the application at <a href="https://womenwholead.org/">https://womenwholead.org/</a>.If you have any questions, you can call Women Who Lead Scholarship Committee chairwoman Cristina Janney at 785-301-2077, cjanney@eaglemedia.com&nbsp; or Nancy Jeter at 785-623-1660, nancyjeter5@gmail.com.

Women Who Lead offers $1,000 scholarships for 2025-26 school year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740068655837.png" alt="St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Hays" />
 <figcaption>St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>

Lenten series features international author, speaker at Hays St. Nicholas Church

Missouri Southern (11-13, 6-9 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (16-8, 9-6 MIAA) Thursday, February 20 • 7:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Fort Hays State opens its final regular homestand of the season on Thursday when it plays host to Missouri Southern. It will be the first of three-straight home games over seven days for FHSU. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers enter at 16-8 overall and 9-6 in the MIAA, while the Lions are 11-13 overall and 6-9 in the MIAA.

Fort Hays State put an end to a four-game skid in road games this past Saturday by defeating Newman University in Wichita by a score of 76-68 this past Saturday. Kaleb Hammeke scored a season-high 32 points in the win, his first game of 30 or more points since the 2022-23 season. In the process, he upped his career scoring total to 1,926 points. It was the only meeting of the regular season between FHSU and Newman.

Missouri Southern has split its last four games played. Most recently the Lions fell at Missouri Western last Saturday by 12 points. Two of Missouri Southern's three wins in conference road games this season have been by two points or less, which includes a 69-67 win at Northwest Missouri State last week.

Fort Hays State has won the last three meetings with Missouri Southern going back to the 2022-23 season. FHSU swept the regular season series last year with an 18-point win in Joplin and then a tight two-point win in overtime in Hays. The Lions won the 2022-23 meeting between the teams in Hays. FHSU has won seven of the last nine meetings overall.

With his 32-point performance at Newman, Hammeke upped his team-leading scoring average to 15.3 points per game. He also adds 4.1 assists per game. Kyle Grill&nbsp;is the only other Tiger averaging double figures in scoring at 11.7 points per game. Shaun Riley&nbsp;leads the team in rebounding at 6.5 per game and is just shy of double figures in scoring at 9.6 points per game.

Fort Hays State continues to lead NCAA Division II in scoring defense at 59.0 points per game. The Tigers rank fourth nationally in fewest turnovers per game (9.3) and they rank eighth in opponent field goal percentage (.394).

Martin Macenis leads the Lions in scoring at 14.8 points per game, followed by Jaden Taylor (13.3) and Tyrique Brooks (12.2). The Lions average 78.3 points per game and have been held inside of 65 points just twice this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740001410251.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsMissouri Southern (11-13, 6-9 MIAA) at Fort Hays State (16-8, 9-6 MIAA) Thursday, February 20 • 7:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Fort Hays State opens its final regular homestand of the season on Thursday when it plays host to Missouri Southern. It will be the first of three-straight home games over seven days for FHSU. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers enter at 16-8 overall and 9-6 in the MIAA, while the Lions are 11-13 overall and 6-9 in the MIAA.Fort Hays State put an end to a four-game skid in road games this past Saturday by defeating Newman University in Wichita by a score of 76-68 this past Saturday. Kaleb Hammeke scored a season-high 32 points in the win, his first game of 30 or more points since the 2022-23 season. In the process, he upped his career scoring total to 1,926 points. It was the only meeting of the regular season between FHSU and Newman.Missouri Southern has split its last four games played. Most recently the Lions fell at Missouri Western last Saturday by 12 points. Two of Missouri Southern's three wins in conference road games this season have been by two points or less, which includes a 69-67 win at Northwest Missouri State last week.Fort Hays State has won the last three meetings with Missouri Southern going back to the 2022-23 season. FHSU swept the regular season series last year with an 18-point win in Joplin and then a tight two-point win in overtime in Hays. The Lions won the 2022-23 meeting between the teams in Hays. FHSU has won seven of the last nine meetings overall.With his 32-point performance at Newman, Hammeke upped his team-leading scoring average to 15.3 points per game. He also adds 4.1 assists per game. Kyle Grill&nbsp;is the only other Tiger averaging double figures in scoring at 11.7 points per game. Shaun Riley&nbsp;leads the team in rebounding at 6.5 per game and is just shy of double figures in scoring at 9.6 points per game.Fort Hays State continues to lead NCAA Division II in scoring defense at 59.0 points per game. The Tigers rank fourth nationally in fewest turnovers per game (9.3) and they rank eighth in opponent field goal percentage (.394).Martin Macenis leads the Lions in scoring at 14.8 points per game, followed by Jaden Taylor (13.3) and Tyrique Brooks (12.2). The Lions average 78.3 points per game and have been held inside of 65 points just twice this season.

🏀🎧 LISTEN: Tigers begin final homestand Thursday vs. Missouri Southern

7/14 Fort Hays State (22-2, 13-2 MIAA) vs. Missouri Southern (16-11, 8-7 MIAA) Thursday, February 20, 2025 • 5:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

7th-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball opens its final homestand of the regular season Thursday when the Tigers host Missouri Southern. Tipoff between the Tigers and Lions is set for 5:30 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

Now 22-2 on the year and 13-2 in MIAA action, Fort Hays State brings a nine-game winning streak into the contest. After opening the year with 12-straight wins, a victory over MSSU would give the Tigers a pair of 10-game winning streaks in a season for just the third time in program history (1990-91, 2018-19).

Despite winning two road games by an average margin of 29.5 points last week, the Tigers moved from second to third in the updated&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaa.com/images/2025/2/17/2025_wbb_kpi_2.png">MIAA KPI Standings</a>, which will be used&nbsp;for seeding for the 2025 MIAA Championship. The Tigers have a rating of .152 (down from .165 a week ago), behind both Pittsburg State (.176) and Missouri Western (.166). This rating system assigns point values to wins and losses based on opponent, location, score margin, etc.

Fans have been flocking to the Coliseum in droves this season, helping FHSU lead Division II in attendance with an average of 1,943 fans per home contest. That total would rank 89th in Division I and is more than 278 DI programs.

All but two of FHSU's 22 wins have been double-figure victories, including 12 victories by 20 or more points, helping the Tigers to the fifth-best scoring margin in the country of plus-19.5 points. FHSU also ranks in the top 10 in DII in several other categories, including assist/turnover ratio (1.43, second), assists per game (19.0, second), field goal percentage (45.9, seventh), field goal percentage defense (34.5, ninth) and winning percentage (.917, ninth).

The Tigers reached 20 wins for the 14th season in a row this year, the longest active streak of 20-win seasons in Division II and tied for fifth best across all NCAA divisions. The next-best active stretch of 20-win seasons in the MIAA is three (MWSU, MSSU, PSU), while the next-best streak in DII is Drury with 11. Only four DI programs have longer active stretches of 20-win seasons, including UConn (32), Baylor (25), Stanford (23) and Florida Gulf Coast (21). Fort Hays State's run of 14-straight 20-win seasons is tied with Louisville, South Carolina and South Dakota State for fifth best in all NCAA women's basketball.

Brooke Loewe&nbsp;has distributed 163 assists this season, already second-most in a single season in program history. The junior needs three more to tie the program record of 166 set by Kristi Leeper-Meis in 1990-91.

Graduate student duo Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;and Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;continue to climb the all-time leaderboards at Fort Hays State. DeGarmo is second in points with 2,118, first in rebounds with 1,161, fifth in steals with 223 and second in field goals with 793. Hollenbeck ranks fourth in points with 1,812, second in blocks with 212, t-9th in steals with 188 and fourth in field goals with 685.

Ellie Stearns&nbsp;has hit a 3-pointer in each of the last four games, the longest active streak on the team.

Fort Hays State is 39-21 all-time against Missouri Southern, including a 26-5 mark at home. The Tigers hold a one-game winning streak in the series while the teams have split the last six matchups 3-3. FHSU is 1-1 against Missouri Southern under head coach Talia Kahrs, including a 1-0 record at home. Fort Hays State is 17-11 against the Lions in MIAA regular season meetings while the series is tied 1-1 in games that reach overtime.

Missouri Southern is 16-11 on the year, however the Lions are just 2-6 in road games. They are in the middle of the pack of the MIAA in scoring, ranking seventh both scoring offense (69.7 ppg) and scoring defense (64.4 ppg). They have the top turnover margin in the conference of plus-4.0, just in front of FHSU's plus-3.96. Ryan Franklin leads the team in both points and rebounds, ranking sixth in the league with 7.5 rebounds per contest and 15th in scoring with 13.3 points per game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740000857547.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics7/14 Fort Hays State (22-2, 13-2 MIAA) vs. Missouri Southern (16-11, 8-7 MIAA) Thursday, February 20, 2025 • 5:30 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>7th-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball opens its final homestand of the regular season Thursday when the Tigers host Missouri Southern. Tipoff between the Tigers and Lions is set for 5:30 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.Now 22-2 on the year and 13-2 in MIAA action, Fort Hays State brings a nine-game winning streak into the contest. After opening the year with 12-straight wins, a victory over MSSU would give the Tigers a pair of 10-game winning streaks in a season for just the third time in program history (1990-91, 2018-19).Despite winning two road games by an average margin of 29.5 points last week, the Tigers moved from second to third in the updated&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaa.com/images/2025/2/17/2025_wbb_kpi_2.png">MIAA KPI Standings</a>, which will be used&nbsp;for seeding for the 2025 MIAA Championship. The Tigers have a rating of .152 (down from .165 a week ago), behind both Pittsburg State (.176) and Missouri Western (.166). This rating system assigns point values to wins and losses based on opponent, location, score margin, etc.Fans have been flocking to the Coliseum in droves this season, helping FHSU lead Division II in attendance with an average of 1,943 fans per home contest. That total would rank 89th in Division I and is more than 278 DI programs.All but two of FHSU's 22 wins have been double-figure victories, including 12 victories by 20 or more points, helping the Tigers to the fifth-best scoring margin in the country of plus-19.5 points. FHSU also ranks in the top 10 in DII in several other categories, including assist/turnover ratio (1.43, second), assists per game (19.0, second), field goal percentage (45.9, seventh), field goal percentage defense (34.5, ninth) and winning percentage (.917, ninth).The Tigers reached 20 wins for the 14th season in a row this year, the longest active streak of 20-win seasons in Division II and tied for fifth best across all NCAA divisions. The next-best active stretch of 20-win seasons in the MIAA is three (MWSU, MSSU, PSU), while the next-best streak in DII is Drury with 11. Only four DI programs have longer active stretches of 20-win seasons, including UConn (32), Baylor (25), Stanford (23) and Florida Gulf Coast (21). Fort Hays State's run of 14-straight 20-win seasons is tied with Louisville, South Carolina and South Dakota State for fifth best in all NCAA women's basketball.Brooke Loewe&nbsp;has distributed 163 assists this season, already second-most in a single season in program history. The junior needs three more to tie the program record of 166 set by Kristi Leeper-Meis in 1990-91.Graduate student duo Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;and Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;continue to climb the all-time leaderboards at Fort Hays State. DeGarmo is second in points with 2,118, first in rebounds with 1,161, fifth in steals with 223 and second in field goals with 793. Hollenbeck ranks fourth in points with 1,812, second in blocks with 212, t-9th in steals with 188 and fourth in field goals with 685.Ellie Stearns&nbsp;has hit a 3-pointer in each of the last four games, the longest active streak on the team.Fort Hays State is 39-21 all-time against Missouri Southern, including a 26-5 mark at home. The Tigers hold a one-game winning streak in the series while the teams have split the last six matchups 3-3. FHSU is 1-1 against Missouri Southern under head coach Talia Kahrs, including a 1-0 record at home. Fort Hays State is 17-11 against the Lions in MIAA regular season meetings while the series is tied 1-1 in games that reach overtime.Missouri Southern is 16-11 on the year, however the Lions are just 2-6 in road games. They are in the middle of the pack of the MIAA in scoring, ranking seventh both scoring offense (69.7 ppg) and scoring defense (64.4 ppg). They have the top turnover margin in the conference of plus-4.0, just in front of FHSU's plus-3.96. Ryan Franklin leads the team in both points and rebounds, ranking sixth in the league with 7.5 rebounds per contest and 15th in scoring with 13.3 points per game.

🏀🎧 LISTEN: No. 7 FHSU open final homestand vs. Missouri Southern Thursday

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Another record overnight low set in Hays as an extreme cold temperature warning from the National Weather Service in Dodge City continues until noon today.

According to the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town, the low dipped to -13 degrees Wednesday night, a new record high. The daytime high for Feb. 19 was 5 degrees.&nbsp;

This is the second consecutive overnight low record for Hays. Tuesday's low was -5 degrees.&nbsp;

A warm-up is in the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dc3ad4d9-a737-428a-b697-ed82863f2d80">three-day forecast</a> with temperatures in the upper 40s by Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740060842757.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAnother record overnight low set in Hays as an extreme cold temperature warning from the National Weather Service in Dodge City continues until noon today.According to the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town, the low dipped to -13 degrees Wednesday night, a new record high. The daytime high for Feb. 19 was 5 degrees.&nbsp;This is the second consecutive overnight low record for Hays. Tuesday's low was -5 degrees.&nbsp;A warm-up is in the <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dc3ad4d9-a737-428a-b697-ed82863f2d80">three-day forecast</a> with temperatures in the upper 40s by Saturday.

Another overnight record low set in Hays

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>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."

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

Thursday, February 20
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB vs. Missouri Southern State, 5:05pm
 KKQY: Victoria WMBKB at Kinsley, approx. 5:45pm KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pm

Friday, February 21
 KKQY: Trego WMBKB at
Smith Center, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High WMBKB vs. Garden City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WMBKB vs. Norton, 5:40pm

Thursday, February 20
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB vs. Missouri Southern State, 5:05pm
 KKQY: Victoria WMBKB at Kinsley, approx. 5:45pm KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pmFriday, February 21
 KKQY: Trego WMBKB at
Smith Center, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High WMBKB vs. Garden City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WMBKB vs. Norton, 5:40pmSaturday, February 22
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
Oklahoma State, 1:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB vs. Pittsburg State, 1:35pmSunday, February 23

 none

The Fort Hays State men look to end a 4-game road losing streak when they take on Newman on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Fugate Gymnasium in Wichita, Kan.

The Fort Hays State men look to end a 4-game road losing streak when they take on Newman on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Fugate Gymnasium in Wichita, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-MBB at Newman" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=4ynzz-180dd54-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-MBB at Newman

Local doctor, board member against mental health support in schools, saying, 'Teach them math, science and history, and what to do and how to think, not to be touchy-feely.'

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

&nbsp;The Hays USD 489 school board discussed special education funding at its meeting Monday night.

Gov. Kelly proposed increasing funding for special education over the next five years to meet the state's funding obligation, as required by state statute.

State law requires the state to fund 92% of the cost of special education not funded by the federal government. The state currently funds special education at about 65% of this amount.

The state statute has no enforcement mechanism, so the Legislature has failed to meet the obligation without formal consequences.

This means local school districts must use their general funds to pay for special education.

Gov. Kelly recommended a $72 million increase in special education funding. The House Education Budget Committee recommended a $30 million increase, but the House Appropriations Committee reduced the increase to $10 million.&nbsp;

"It does affect us greatly when we have to start pulling from our general fund," Hays Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "It naturally affects everything we do in this district.

"We are making it work because we are required to make it work."

Gifted students and students with disabilities are both required to have Individual Education Plans that meet federal standards, Kyle Carlin, special education co-op director, said. School districts are required to follow those IEPs.

The full House passed the budget bill to the Senate Wednesday.

Board member Ruth Ruder said when she asked Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, about the special education funding at a recent Legislative coffee in Hays, Rahjes said local school districts should increase their mill levies to cover the funding gaps.

"It's our job to make sure we get our funding," Ruder said. "It helps taxpayers because it's funding that's due us. They have to pay for it, but they don't."

Board member Derek Yarmer said he thought the local school district could operate more efficiently.

"We could cut the budget and work a little leaner," he said. "I feel like we are always adding stuff. We could take a look and actually cut back on stuff."

Ruder, a banker, said, "It is like you getting a loan from me. If you don't pay for your car, I'm going to take it. Why do we have to continually work for [the special education funding]? They are not meeting their obligation to do so."

Board President Curt Vajnar said, "They mandate it, and then they don't fund it. That's the problem."

Within the co-op, Carlin said he looks for efficiencies whenever a para leaves. However, the co-op is still obligated to provide for the needs of the students regardless of the state and federal funding available.

Most of the co-op's costs are in salaries and benefits for people. Carlin said it is challenging to find&nbsp;efficiencies in that.

Ruder said, "If you go back and read our board policy, our obligation is to the kids. I watch expenses, too. I do it in my business every day, but our obligation is to the kids."

Yarmer asked if students were meeting their education goals.

Kyle Carlin, co-op director, said students are meeting 95% of their IEP goals. He said if the students were meeting 100% of their goals, he would say the expectations of those students should be higher.

In the last five years, the district has seen math scores increase by 5% for special education students.&nbsp;

He said reading scores have been more stagnant. Although the district has seen students move from level one to two, many are still not reaching grade level.

The local special education co-op serves 1,050 students in the Hays, Ellis, Victoria, LaCrosse and Russell school districts. This includes students in the Catholic schools in those districts and the Camber youth mental health facility in Hays.

Carlin said that based on the amount of funding the Legislature is considering, not only would the funding gap not be closed, but the amount of general fund spending for the districts in the co-op is likely to increase.

Yarmer asked how the district would spend the extra funding.&nbsp;

Wilson said it's difficult to prove a negative.

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said he makes those cuts throughout the year as he works to build the budget.

Yarmer said, "Do we really need those things?"

Board member Meagan Zampeiri Lillpop said, "Teachers are asking for things to do their jobs, and we can't say yes because it costs too much. That's incredibly disheartening for everyone. It keeps them from getting better and better. It keeps the staff at a lower level and, in turn, the students at a lower level."

"It's a compounding austerity that's not necessary. We've had a surplus in the state over and over again," she said.

Yarmer said, "Just because someone asks for things doesn't make them a need. There are minimal standards and criteria."

He added, "I don't think money is the problem of the education system. I think we need to be better at doing what we do."

He pointed to $1.7 million in allocations in bond and capital outlay funds that were ultimately approved at Monday night's meeting. Yarmer voted against all but one of those five items.

"If we have money for that, I'm hard-pressed to tell people we're destitute," Yarmer said.

Yarmer called the new Hays High School a Taj Mahal.

&nbsp;He was reminded that capital outlay and bond funds can't be used for salaries, benefits or classroom expenses.&nbsp;

Yarmer said he would like to see the capital outlay mill levy decreased and the local option budget, also known as the LOB, mill levy increased.

Board member Jayme Goetz, who is a former district teacher, said education is more than math, social studies and science. She said it is also personal fitness, personal wellness and mental health.

Yarmer, a local doctor, said,&nbsp; "As far as I'm concerned, social-emotional stuff has been out for 12 years, and there's more on mental health services inside the school and outside of the school. What are we gaining? What have we actually done as far as trying to teach these kids to be good people? 

"Let the parents and stuff do that, and let's educate them to be smart individuals and learn how to deal with life on their own instead of all these stupid surveys and stuff that we do.

"Teach them math, science and history, and what to do and how to think, not to be touchy-feely."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739912166485.png" alt="From left to right, Hays school board members Curt Vajnar, Derek Yarmer, Jayme Goetz and Ken Brooks at Monday's school board meeting. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>From left to right, Hays school board members Curt Vajnar, Derek Yarmer, Jayme Goetz and Ken Brooks at Monday's school board meeting. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Local doctor, board member against mental health support in schools, saying, 'Teach them math, science and history, and what to do and how to think, not to be touchy-feely.'</h2> By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post&nbsp;The Hays USD 489 school board discussed special education funding at its meeting Monday night.Gov. Kelly proposed increasing funding for special education over the next five years to meet the state's funding obligation, as required by state statute.State law requires the state to fund 92% of the cost of special education not funded by the federal government. The state currently funds special education at about 65% of this amount.The state statute has no enforcement mechanism, so the Legislature has failed to meet the obligation without formal consequences.This means local school districts must use their general funds to pay for special education.Gov. Kelly recommended a $72 million increase in special education funding. The House Education Budget Committee recommended a $30 million increase, but the House Appropriations Committee reduced the increase to $10 million.&nbsp;"It does affect us greatly when we have to start pulling from our general fund," Hays Superintendent Ron Wilson said. "It naturally affects everything we do in this district."We are making it work because we are required to make it work."Gifted students and students with disabilities are both required to have Individual Education Plans that meet federal standards, Kyle Carlin, special education co-op director, said. School districts are required to follow those IEPs.The full House passed the budget bill to the Senate Wednesday.Board member Ruth Ruder said when she asked Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, about the special education funding at a recent Legislative coffee in Hays, Rahjes said local school districts should increase their mill levies to cover the funding gaps."It's our job to make sure we get our funding," Ruder said. "It helps taxpayers because it's funding that's due us. They have to pay for it, but they don't."Board member Derek Yarmer said he thought the local school district could operate more efficiently."We could cut the budget and work a little leaner," he said. "I feel like we are always adding stuff. We could take a look and actually cut back on stuff."Ruder, a banker, said, "It is like you getting a loan from me. If you don't pay for your car, I'm going to take it. Why do we have to continually work for [the special education funding]? They are not meeting their obligation to do so."Board President Curt Vajnar said, "They mandate it, and then they don't fund it. That's the problem."Within the co-op, Carlin said he looks for efficiencies whenever a para leaves. However, the co-op is still obligated to provide for the needs of the students regardless of the state and federal funding available.Most of the co-op's costs are in salaries and benefits for people. Carlin said it is challenging to find&nbsp;efficiencies in that.Ruder said, "If you go back and read our board policy, our obligation is to the kids. I watch expenses, too. I do it in my business every day, but our obligation is to the kids."Yarmer asked if students were meeting their education goals.Kyle Carlin, co-op director, said students are meeting 95% of their IEP goals. He said if the students were meeting 100% of their goals, he would say the expectations of those students should be higher.In the last five years, the district has seen math scores increase by 5% for special education students.&nbsp;He said reading scores have been more stagnant. Although the district has seen students move from level one to two, many are still not reaching grade level.The local special education co-op serves 1,050 students in the Hays, Ellis, Victoria, LaCrosse and Russell school districts. This includes students in the Catholic schools in those districts and the Camber youth mental health facility in Hays.Carlin said that based on the amount of funding the Legislature is considering, not only would the funding gap not be closed, but the amount of general fund spending for the districts in the co-op is likely to increase.Yarmer asked how the district would spend the extra funding.&nbsp;Wilson said it's difficult to prove a negative.Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said he makes those cuts throughout the year as he works to build the budget.Yarmer said, "Do we really need those things?"Board member Meagan Zampeiri Lillpop said, "Teachers are asking for things to do their jobs, and we can't say yes because it costs too much. That's incredibly disheartening for everyone. It keeps them from getting better and better. It keeps the staff at a lower level and, in turn, the students at a lower level.""It's a compounding austerity that's not necessary. We've had a surplus in the state over and over again," she said.Yarmer said, "Just because someone asks for things doesn't make them a need. There are minimal standards and criteria."He added, "I don't think money is the problem of the education system. I think we need to be better at doing what we do."He pointed to $1.7 million in allocations in bond and capital outlay funds that were ultimately approved at Monday night's meeting. Yarmer voted against all but one of those five items."If we have money for that, I'm hard-pressed to tell people we're destitute," Yarmer said.Yarmer called the new Hays High School a Taj Mahal.&nbsp;He was reminded that capital outlay and bond funds can't be used for salaries, benefits or classroom expenses.&nbsp;Yarmer said he would like to see the capital outlay mill levy decreased and the local option budget, also known as the LOB, mill levy increased.Board member Jayme Goetz, who is a former district teacher, said education is more than math, social studies and science. She said it is also personal fitness, personal wellness and mental health.Yarmer, a local doctor, said,&nbsp; "As far as I'm concerned, social-emotional stuff has been out for 12 years, and there's more on mental health services inside the school and outside of the school. What are we gaining? What have we actually done as far as trying to teach these kids to be good people? "Let the parents and stuff do that, and let's educate them to be smart individuals and learn how to deal with life on their own instead of all these stupid surveys and stuff that we do."Teach them math, science and history, and what to do and how to think, not to be touchy-feely."

Hays BOE debates need for state special education funding, district spending

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A Jetmore radiologic technologist voluntarily surrendered his license on Monday in lieu of revocation after being convicted of sex crimes with a child.

Anthony R. Sherrill, a radiologic technologist, was convicted on Jan. 5, 2024, in Johnson County District Court of two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. He was sentenced to 34 months in prison on each count to be served concurrently, according to the consent order from the Kansas Board of Healing Arts.

His sentences were suspended, and he was placed on 36 months of supervised probation, followed by lifetime post-release supervision.

On April 17, 2024, Sherrill was convicted in Edwards County District Court of one count of aggravated endangering a child, according to the consent order. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison with 36 months of supervised probation followed by 	12 months of post-release supervision.

The felony convictions subject him to discipline by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts.&nbsp;

According to the consent order, Sherill waived his rights to dispute the proceeding before the board.

Sherrill had been a licensed&nbsp;radiologic technologist in Kansas since 2013.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740051457940.png" alt="Sherrill-photo Johnson County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Sherrill-photo Johnson County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Jetmore radiologic technologist voluntarily surrendered his license on Monday in lieu of revocation after being convicted of sex crimes with a child.Anthony R. Sherrill, a radiologic technologist, was convicted on Jan. 5, 2024, in Johnson County District Court of two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. He was sentenced to 34 months in prison on each count to be served concurrently, according to the consent order from the Kansas Board of Healing Arts.His sentences were suspended, and he was placed on 36 months of supervised probation, followed by lifetime post-release supervision.On April 17, 2024, Sherrill was convicted in Edwards County District Court of one count of aggravated endangering a child, according to the consent order. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison with 36 months of supervised probation followed by 	12 months of post-release supervision.The felony convictions subject him to discipline by the Kansas Board of Healing Arts.&nbsp;According to the consent order, Sherill waived his rights to dispute the proceeding before the board.Sherrill had been a licensed&nbsp;radiologic technologist in Kansas since 2013.

Jetmore radiologic tech surrenders license after child sex crimes convictions

As we enter the final two weeks of Match Month, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your ongoing support of the Heartland Community Foundation (HCF). Your generosity has helped fund critical projects and initiatives that benefit our communities.

If you’ve already contributed to our County Legacy Funds this month, we’re deeply grateful. And if you haven’t yet made a donation, there’s still time to make your impact go even further!

Here is where our giving stands, as of Feb. 18:

Trego County Legacy Fund&nbsp;—&nbsp;$58,733 Ellis County Legacy Fund — $45,697 Rooks County Legacy Fund — $39,964

Triple your Gift (or more!) before Feb. 28

When you make a donation to our County Legacy Funds during February, your donation is matched 200% by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, up to $50,000 per county. 

We found out last week that the Patterson Family Foundation is also stepping in with additional match dollars for our campaign! While final details and approval are still pending, we know they will likely match at least up to $70,000 -- maybe more!

This is an incredible opportunity to grow our grantmaking power in Trego, Rooks, and Ellis County —supporting more nonprofits and funding more local projects. Every dollar given now helps us maximize this match while we can! This is our only chance to capture all of those critical match dollars!

💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUNmu4zqEJv2vw3NmtzsVcsZ1wkxA9JZFg39G5BHhnGw9s_bzkXLmKcjy0BSdg-1QcF_GXrJ2qSayHh0d_jlxos5r3WdltkDKjgjLnNLp177OsICQI8gAp_g2ygeYK8pHemf3sRt86ykbaRyfBvAOKSKV1ah0l6Zpe5xS7Kv3mZmASX6a9D8b_u8=&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Donate to the Trego County Legacy Fund</a> 💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUNmu4zqEJv2vJWgo7cdZlYtQvDGV9goL9NqTOIMK2avAd53FfBknVymK8_LAUFKJzBXAY2L6p-dX4i7jzUK0dfmEi-rwhFuXx3C015YLUFA2LDUpzi7OJzrj1E4mi7AIThytxe6I4mh96K1JCLRJg-jPv5olFOvVfw1CfQMC3DJuRJIEhBcUMMo=&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Donate to the Ellis County Legacy Fund</a> &nbsp;💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUNmu4zqEJv2vvMXMMtALwUoHvD-F9R3MNBVbSXbi__tWDYxhCoZYf-uwgENeuLTCgVGyUHODT7e2jJjNCka9IFRJnhNy_CtBqc9Ii5Vn8rF44_OK-ehWrmMf9nZEV7UowulrR0RBXNI5tozKMy3I5O0HVW0Wz7CGBCAhgvaSGK8TkBlzHRjSG1s=&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Donate to the Rooks County Legacy Fund</a>

All donor names will be recognized on our Facebook page and in local media after the campaign.

A gift to our County Legacy Funds isn't just a donation—it’s an investment in so many worthwhile local causes. Thanks to donors like you, we granted&nbsp;$598,658&nbsp;during the calendar year&nbsp;in 2024 alone — and since 2015, we've invested nearly $4.3 million back into Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties!

This is the power of endowment. Every dollar given to our County Legacy Funds is never spent—instead, it’s invested, and we grant from its growth year after year. That means your gift today keeps giving forever to support a wide variety of causes!

Because of the expected snow and freezing temperatures, we are postponing our planned coffee chats for this week until next week. Heartland staff will offer free coffee from the menu or provide coffee and donuts. Here are the new dates and locations:

Donate on or before February 20, and you’ll be entered to win $500, thanks to an anonymous donor! Plus, donations of $500 or more earn an additional entry. Your donation must be postmarked by Feb. 20 to be eligible. We will announce the winner on Facebook on Monday, Feb. 24!

Visit us anytime to drop off your donation!

📍 Ellis County location: 1200 Main St., #102, Hays 📍 Trego County location: 110 N., Main St., WaKeeney 📍 Rooks County location: 202 W. Mill St., Plainville -- Join us for a Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the new location in Plainville, Feb. 25 at 10 a.m.!

Mail your gift to 1200 Main St., #102, Hays, KS 67601 or donate online at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUAO7mZkG3JWXanMZz_WYtxh8Td1JwtElXJU5sFSSsj3CQ5j3HrnR5ECP0erMp2Rqtqmf0qi8DXeRtp4k4LIZwJ8Xs54pK9w2Y7YcMYOn22oF4Hzisnsp_dDJZsoElEGYi1FiDY8Qitqf&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Click HERE to donate now!</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736878807620.jpeg" alt="Heartland Community Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Heartland Community Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>HCFAs we enter the final two weeks of Match Month, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks for your ongoing support of the Heartland Community Foundation (HCF). Your generosity has helped fund critical projects and initiatives that benefit our communities.If you’ve already contributed to our County Legacy Funds this month, we’re deeply grateful. And if you haven’t yet made a donation, there’s still time to make your impact go even further!Here is where our giving stands, as of Feb. 18:Trego County Legacy Fund&nbsp;—&nbsp;$58,733 Ellis County Legacy Fund — $45,697 Rooks County Legacy Fund — $39,964Triple your Gift (or more!) before Feb. 28When you make a donation to our County Legacy Funds during February, your donation is matched 200% by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, up to $50,000 per county. We found out last week that the Patterson Family Foundation is also stepping in with additional match dollars for our campaign! While final details and approval are still pending, we know they will likely match at least up to $70,000 -- maybe more!This is an incredible opportunity to grow our grantmaking power in Trego, Rooks, and Ellis County —supporting more nonprofits and funding more local projects. Every dollar given now helps us maximize this match while we can! This is our only chance to capture all of those critical match dollars!💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUNmu4zqEJv2vw3NmtzsVcsZ1wkxA9JZFg39G5BHhnGw9s_bzkXLmKcjy0BSdg-1QcF_GXrJ2qSayHh0d_jlxos5r3WdltkDKjgjLnNLp177OsICQI8gAp_g2ygeYK8pHemf3sRt86ykbaRyfBvAOKSKV1ah0l6Zpe5xS7Kv3mZmASX6a9D8b_u8=&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Donate to the Trego County Legacy Fund</a> 💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUNmu4zqEJv2vJWgo7cdZlYtQvDGV9goL9NqTOIMK2avAd53FfBknVymK8_LAUFKJzBXAY2L6p-dX4i7jzUK0dfmEi-rwhFuXx3C015YLUFA2LDUpzi7OJzrj1E4mi7AIThytxe6I4mh96K1JCLRJg-jPv5olFOvVfw1CfQMC3DJuRJIEhBcUMMo=&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Donate to the Ellis County Legacy Fund</a> &nbsp;💙&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUNmu4zqEJv2vvMXMMtALwUoHvD-F9R3MNBVbSXbi__tWDYxhCoZYf-uwgENeuLTCgVGyUHODT7e2jJjNCka9IFRJnhNy_CtBqc9Ii5Vn8rF44_OK-ehWrmMf9nZEV7UowulrR0RBXNI5tozKMy3I5O0HVW0Wz7CGBCAhgvaSGK8TkBlzHRjSG1s=&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Donate to the Rooks County Legacy Fund</a>All donor names will be recognized on our Facebook page and in local media after the campaign.The Power of Endowment is ForeverA gift to our County Legacy Funds isn't just a donation—it’s an investment in so many worthwhile local causes. Thanks to donors like you, we granted&nbsp;$598,658&nbsp;during the calendar year&nbsp;in 2024 alone — and since 2015, we've invested nearly $4.3 million back into Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties!This is the power of endowment. Every dollar given to our County Legacy Funds is never spent—instead, it’s invested, and we grant from its growth year after year. That means your gift today keeps giving forever to support a wide variety of causes!Come visit us at a Coffee ChatBecause of the expected snow and freezing temperatures, we are postponing our planned coffee chats for this week until next week. Heartland staff will offer free coffee from the menu or provide coffee and donuts. Here are the new dates and locations:<ul>
 <li>Feb. 24, 8:30-10 a.m.: Stockton at the Daily Grind | Hays at our main office, 1200 Main St., #102 (coffee and donuts provided)</li><li>Feb. 25, 10-11 a.m.: Victoria at Library Bar &amp; Grill (coffee and donuts provided)</li><li>Feb. 26, 8:30-10 a.m.: Ellis at Ellis Public Library | Plainville at Papa’s Corner | WaKeeney at The Well</li>
 </ul>Give Early to WinDonate on or before February 20, and you’ll be entered to win $500, thanks to an anonymous donor! Plus, donations of $500 or more earn an additional entry. Your donation must be postmarked by Feb. 20 to be eligible. We will announce the winner on Facebook on Monday, Feb. 24!Visit us anytime to drop off your donation!📍 Ellis County location: 1200 Main St., #102, Hays 📍 Trego County location: 110 N., Main St., WaKeeney 📍 Rooks County location: 202 W. Mill St., Plainville -- Join us for a Ribbon Cutting to celebrate the new location in Plainville, Feb. 25 at 10 a.m.!Mail your gift to 1200 Main St., #102, Hays, KS 67601 or donate online at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://4hmprlhbb.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=00126oMxdlScIbWCPto3LmjUQzrEVA--2kZ3yV6Z_lzT9tjWqz_lp4rUAO7mZkG3JWXanMZz_WYtxh8Td1JwtElXJU5sFSSsj3CQ5j3HrnR5ECP0erMp2Rqtqmf0qi8DXeRtp4k4LIZwJ8Xs54pK9w2Y7YcMYOn22oF4Hzisnsp_dDJZsoElEGYi1FiDY8Qitqf&amp;c=M0_Cn32X5gr4IEiAwpKUqQEYusZqwtrzrWbtyJS333KD0pENIVtE_Q==&amp;ch=4G-fpjQnHHcUBTeBnjxl2MtC4SP1n_iK4qy2cL9P7n1ypvwEhB7BIg==">Click HERE to donate now!</a>Heartland Community Foundation

Match Month ends soon for Heartland Community Foundation

Hays, Holy Family Elementary and Thomas More Prep-Marain will all be on two hour delayed starts on Thursday.

Fort Hays State University will open at 8 a.m. on Thursday, but due to extreme cold, on-campus classes starting before 10:30 a.m. are canceled. The regular class schedule will resume after 10:30 a.m.

Hays, Holy Family Elementary and Thomas More Prep-Marain will all be on two hour delayed starts on Thursday.Fort Hays State University will open at 8 a.m. on Thursday, but due to extreme cold, on-campus classes starting before 10:30 a.m. are canceled. The regular class schedule will resume after 10:30 a.m.

Hays, Holy Family, TMP delayed starts; FHSU no a.m. classes

INDIANAPOLIS - The seventh-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team is one of 10 teams currently under consideration for selection into the 2025 NCAA Division II Central Region Championships, announced Wednesday by the NCAA office.

In recent years the NCAA has released its first set of region rankings in alphabetical order before announcing the teams in rank order in two subsequent releases. Final selections for the field of eight teams will be announced on Sunday, March 9. The regional tournament will run March 14-17 at the top overall seed with the regional champion moving on to Pittsburgh, Pa. March 24-28 for the DII Elite Eight.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740006632454.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsINDIANAPOLIS - The seventh-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team is one of 10 teams currently under consideration for selection into the 2025 NCAA Division II Central Region Championships, announced Wednesday by the NCAA office.In recent years the NCAA has released its first set of region rankings in alphabetical order before announcing the teams in rank order in two subsequent releases. Final selections for the field of eight teams will be announced on Sunday, March 9. The regional tournament will run March 14-17 at the top overall seed with the regional champion moving on to Pittsburgh, Pa. March 24-28 for the DII Elite Eight.The Tigers are one of four MIAA programs in the region's top 10, joined by four school representing the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference and two institutions from the Great American Conference.While the Tigers are 22-2 on the year, one win came against an NAIA opponent, giving FHSU an overall DII record of 21-2. All but one of those DII matchups are considered in-region opponents, giving the Tigers an in-region record of 20-2.Fort Hays State has played in eight of the last 10 regional championship tournaments, serving as the top overall seed four times and playing in three regional finals.Two of the statistical metrics that the regional selection committee takes into consideration are KPI and in-region RPI. Fort Hays State currently has the third-best KPI in the region of .242 while the Tigers are sixth in in-region RPI at .590.The Tigers will have a chance to boost those metrics in the final two weeks of the regular season with three games against teams also listed as under consideration, including one matchup with Pittsburg State and two games against Nebraska-Kearney.The Tigers open a three-game homestand Thursday (Feb. 20) against Missouri Southern beginning at 5:30 p.m.2025 NCAA DII Central Region Rankings - February 19 School • Overall DII Record • In-Region Record Concordia-St. Paul • 24-2 • 24-2 Fort Hays State • 21-2 • 20-2 Harding • 17-6 • 16-6 Minnesota State Mankato • 20-5 • 19-4 Missouri Western • 16-7 • 16-5 Nebraska-Kearney • 16-5 • 16-5 Northern State • 16-10 • 16-10 Pittsburg State • 22-2 • 22-0 Southern Nazarene • 18-6 • 18-6 Southwest Minnesota State • 22-2 • 22-2 *teams listed in alphabetical order*