The Fort Hays State men wrap up their weekend homestand against MIAA newcomer Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.

The Fort Hays State men wrap up their weekend homestand against MIAA newcomer Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-MBB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith" 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=ip37u-17f75f4-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-MBB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The 69th-annual Ellis County Spelling Bee crowned its winner Monday, who will compete in the Kansas State Spelling competition.

Sponsored by the FHSU chapter of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the spelling contest was Monday night at the Beach-Schmidt Auditorium.

Forty-five students from third to eighth grade and from 12 different schools in Ellis County competed to determine who would represent the county at the state level.

Eighth-grader Krister Lundberg from Hays Middle School was declared the winner after correctly spelling the word "askew."

Seventh-grader Niyah Zollinger from Hays Middle School correctly spelled "ubiquity" for second place.

Lundberg moves on to the Sunflower State Spelling Bee at Kansas Wesleyan University on March 22.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739297806515.jpeg" alt="2025 Ellis County Spelling Bee winner Krister Lundberg and second place winner Niyah Zollinger. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>2025 Ellis County Spelling Bee winner Krister Lundberg and second place winner Niyah Zollinger. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe 69th-annual Ellis County Spelling Bee crowned its winner Monday, who will compete in the Kansas State Spelling competition.Sponsored by the FHSU chapter of the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the spelling contest was Monday night at the Beach-Schmidt Auditorium.Forty-five students from third to eighth grade and from 12 different schools in Ellis County competed to determine who would represent the county at the state level.Eighth-grader Krister Lundberg from Hays Middle School was declared the winner after correctly spelling the word "askew."Seventh-grader Niyah Zollinger from Hays Middle School correctly spelled "ubiquity" for second place.Lundberg moves on to the Sunflower State Spelling Bee at Kansas Wesleyan University on March 22.

Hays Middle School eighth-grader wins Ellis County Spelling Bee

Given that we are two weeks before turnaround, the House of Representative was busy with bill introductions, hitting a whopping 130 total. Here is a small selection, 9 bills, from that very long list.

First is House Bill (HB) 2185. This legislation would enable National Guard members to transfer unused tuition assistance benefits from the Kansas National Guard Education Assistance Act to eligible dependents. Second is HB 2190, which would establish general elections on even-numbered years as public holidays.

Third is HB 2193. This bill would establish the Every Mom Matters Program in the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which would provide information and support services to pregnant women and parents considering adoption. The fund and its contracts would be administered through the State Treasurer.

Fourth is House Bill 2205. This legislation would ban lobbying in Kansas on behalf of the Russian Federation, People’s Republic of China, Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Republic of Cuba, Maduro’s Venezuela, and the new Syrian Arab Republic. The bill would also provide civil penalties for violation of said prohibition.

Fifth is HB 2210, which would establish a child tax credit under Kansas Law, the credit value per child depending on level of filing income.

Sixth is HB 2238. This bill would adjust responsibility of preparing minutes to show attendance, agenda items, tentative and final committee decision, staff instructions, and other committee matters from the Kansas Legislative Research Department to Legislative Administrative Services.

Seventh is House Bill 2274, which alters the requirements for reciprocity with other states in occupational licensing, for military members and their spouses, by removing the requirement that said military members be active service.

Eighth is HB 2283. This bill would add new members to the Kansas State Fair Board from the legislature, with appointment made by legislative leadership. Ninth, and last, is HB 2313 which would prohibit use of the artificial intelligence platform DeepSeek and similar platforms from use on state-owned devices and networks.

House Appropriations (HAPP) only heard and worked budgets this week. On Monday HAPP heard and worked on the budgets of the Attorney General, Governor’s Office, Judicial Branch, Department of Education, and Kansas Guardianship Program.

Tuesday saw the committee hear and work budgets for the following: Kansas Neurological Institute, Office of Child Advocate, Parsons State Hospital and Training Center, Kansas Department of Corrections, Larned Correctional Facility, Norton Correctional Facility, Topeka Correctional Facility, Winfield Correctional Facility, Kansas State Fair, Kansas Human Rights Commission, Kansas State Treasurer, and Pooled Money Investment Board.

For Wednesday House Appropriations heard and worked the budgets of Emporia State University, Kansas State University, Kansas State Extension Services and Agricultural Research Program, Kansas State Veterinary Medical Center, Wichita State University, and Kansas Department of Agriculture.

On Thursday the committee worked and heard budgets for the Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas Department of Health and Environment—Environment, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Water Office, Department of Administration, Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board, Kansas Real Estate Commission, Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry, Kansas Board of Hearing Examiners, Kansas Dental Board, Ellsworth Correctional Facility, Hutchinson Correctional Facility, Larned State Correctional Facility, and Kansas Office of Veterans Services.

Friday witnessed House Appropriations hear and work the budgets of the Department of Children and Families, Kansas Department of Health and Environment—Health, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University, El Dorado Correctional Facility, Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex, Kansas Department of Transportation, and Kansas Highway Patrol.

The Kansas House of Representatives debated and voted on seven pieces of legislation this week. First was Tuesday with House Concurrent Resolution 5004, which amends the state constitution to add citizenship as a requirement for voting in any election.

The second was on Wednesday with House Bill (HB) 2020, which requires a quarterly report from the director of division of vehicles listing the names and addresses of noncitizens that have attained driver’s licenses in said period.

On Thursday the third and fourth bills were HB 2049 and 2050. HB 2049 adjusts statutes on suspension, revocation, denial, and renewal for insurance agent and public adjuster licenses and HB 2050 grants the Insurance Commissioner the ability to set some fee rates and include them in the publication of the Kansas Register.

On Friday the remaining House Bills of 2029, 2042, and 2043 were debated and voted. HB 2029 would redesignate several stretches of state highway and HB 2042 and 2043 would alter further insurance law.

 I voted yes on each bill, and each passed their floor votes.

It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas.

 Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.

Feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633970422056.jpeg" alt="Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, 109th Dist. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA Feb. 12, 2025Given that we are two weeks before turnaround, the House of Representative was busy with bill introductions, hitting a whopping 130 total. Here is a small selection, 9 bills, from that very long list.First is House Bill (HB) 2185. This legislation would enable National Guard members to transfer unused tuition assistance benefits from the Kansas National Guard Education Assistance Act to eligible dependents. Second is HB 2190, which would establish general elections on even-numbered years as public holidays.Third is HB 2193. This bill would establish the Every Mom Matters Program in the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, which would provide information and support services to pregnant women and parents considering adoption. The fund and its contracts would be administered through the State Treasurer.Fourth is House Bill 2205. This legislation would ban lobbying in Kansas on behalf of the Russian Federation, People’s Republic of China, Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Republic of Cuba, Maduro’s Venezuela, and the new Syrian Arab Republic. The bill would also provide civil penalties for violation of said prohibition.Fifth is HB 2210, which would establish a child tax credit under Kansas Law, the credit value per child depending on level of filing income.Sixth is HB 2238. This bill would adjust responsibility of preparing minutes to show attendance, agenda items, tentative and final committee decision, staff instructions, and other committee matters from the Kansas Legislative Research Department to Legislative Administrative Services.Seventh is House Bill 2274, which alters the requirements for reciprocity with other states in occupational licensing, for military members and their spouses, by removing the requirement that said military members be active service.Eighth is HB 2283. This bill would add new members to the Kansas State Fair Board from the legislature, with appointment made by legislative leadership. Ninth, and last, is HB 2313 which would prohibit use of the artificial intelligence platform DeepSeek and similar platforms from use on state-owned devices and networks.COMMITTEE HAPPENINGSHouse Appropriations (HAPP) only heard and worked budgets this week. On Monday HAPP heard and worked on the budgets of the Attorney General, Governor’s Office, Judicial Branch, Department of Education, and Kansas Guardianship Program.Tuesday saw the committee hear and work budgets for the following: Kansas Neurological Institute, Office of Child Advocate, Parsons State Hospital and Training Center, Kansas Department of Corrections, Larned Correctional Facility, Norton Correctional Facility, Topeka Correctional Facility, Winfield Correctional Facility, Kansas State Fair, Kansas Human Rights Commission, Kansas State Treasurer, and Pooled Money Investment Board.For Wednesday House Appropriations heard and worked the budgets of Emporia State University, Kansas State University, Kansas State Extension Services and Agricultural Research Program, Kansas State Veterinary Medical Center, Wichita State University, and Kansas Department of Agriculture.On Thursday the committee worked and heard budgets for the Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas Department of Health and Environment—Environment, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Water Office, Department of Administration, Kansas Real Estate Appraisal Board, Kansas Real Estate Commission, Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry, Kansas Board of Hearing Examiners, Kansas Dental Board, Ellsworth Correctional Facility, Hutchinson Correctional Facility, Larned State Correctional Facility, and Kansas Office of Veterans Services.Friday witnessed House Appropriations hear and work the budgets of the Department of Children and Families, Kansas Department of Health and Environment—Health, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University, El Dorado Correctional Facility, Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex, Kansas Department of Transportation, and Kansas Highway Patrol.HOUSE DELIBERATIONThe Kansas House of Representatives debated and voted on seven pieces of legislation this week. First was Tuesday with House Concurrent Resolution 5004, which amends the state constitution to add citizenship as a requirement for voting in any election. The second was on Wednesday with House Bill (HB) 2020, which requires a quarterly report from the director of division of vehicles listing the names and addresses of noncitizens that have attained driver’s licenses in said period. On Thursday the third and fourth bills were HB 2049 and 2050. HB 2049 adjusts statutes on suspension, revocation, denial, and renewal for insurance agent and public adjuster licenses and HB 2050 grants the Insurance Commissioner the ability to set some fee rates and include them in the publication of the Kansas Register. On Friday the remaining House Bills of 2029, 2042, and 2043 were debated and voted. HB 2029 would redesignate several stretches of state highway and HB 2042 and 2043 would alter further insurance law. I voted yes on each bill, and each passed their floor votes.It is a distinct honor to serve as your representative for the 109th Kansas House District and the state of Kansas. Please contact me with your thoughts, concerns, and questions. I always appreciate hearing from the residents of the 109th House District and others from the state of Kansas, as well.Feel free to contact me 785-296-7672, follow on twitter at @waymaster4house, or email me at troy.waymaster@house.ks.gov.

WAYMASTER: From the Dome to Home, Feb. 12, 2025

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

RUSSELL -&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs went on the road Tuesday for a Mid-Continent League matchup with their long-time rivals the Russell Broncos and it was the Russell girls earning a 49-45 &nbsp;victory while the TMP boys outlasted Russell in overtime, 67-64.

GIRLS: Russell 49, TMP 45 Similar to the first meeting between the Monarchs (10-7, 4-2 MCL) and the Broncos, earlier this year in the fifth-place game of the MCL tournament, Russell (9-9, 5-3 MCL) ran out to a double-digital lead but this time there were able to hold off the Monarchs and picked up their first win against TMP since the 2019 season, 49-45.

Russell jumped out to an early 15-3 run with only Shalee Gottschalk’s three point field on the board for TMP.

Over the final minute of the first and start of the second quarter TMP’s Brooke Koenigsman combined with Reagan Allen to score eight in-a-row, making it 15-11 Russell early in the second quarter.

Russell again extended their lead to nine but&nbsp;TMP outscored Russell in the second quarter 16 to 9 as the Monarchs made it 24-21 Broncos at halftime.

Brynn Rebel connected on a three pointer out of the quarter break tying the game briefly at 24.&nbsp;

But Russell answered with an 11-2 run and led by seven at 38-31 through three quarters of the action

The Monarchs opened the final frame by putting together a 14-6 run that allowed TMP to take the 45-44 on a Koenigsman three pointer.

Koenigsman and Hannah Rose scored 12 of the 14 points during the run.

But on the next Russell possession, Aubrey Birney scored on an offensive rebound to put the Broncos us 46-45 and they never trailed again in a 49-45 victory.

Birney led all scorers with 12 points and seven rebounds. Koenigsman led TMP with 11 points and five rebounds.

BOYS: TMP 67, Russell 64 It would take overtime to decided a winner Tuesday between the TMP boys and the Russell boys and it was TMP coming up with the 67-64 win

Jacob Seib scored the first four point of the game for the Monarchs as they jumped to an early 8-3 lead.&nbsp;

The Monarchs (9-8, 5-1 MCL) led 15-7 after the first quarter.

TMP continued to build their first-half lead and led by as many at 13 at 24-11 on an offensive rebound and put back by Seib in the second quarter.

But the Monarchs went cold to close out the first half and that allowed Russell (9-8, 4-4 MCL) to climb back within one at halftime, 26-25.

They then took the lead to open the second half at 27-26. The third quarter featured 10 lead changes and four ties before the Monarchs took a 42-41 lead into the final period of the regulation.

In the fourth quarter Russell led by as many as four and TMP by as many as three but with TMP up three at 55-52, Jake Mooney hit a three pointer to send the game to overtime.

In the extra frame, the Monarchs were six-of-eight at the line and Carson Liles was a perfect four-for-four. He scored four points and Jacob Seib scored six points in the overtime leading TMP to the 67-64 victory.

Seib scored a career-high 23 points. Ty Schmeidler added 18 points and Liles finished with 14 points.

Russell’s Trey Carlson had 31 points, 13 rebounds and blocked three shots in a losing effort.

TMP with host Plainville on Thursday and Russell travels to Trego on Friday.&nbsp;

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostRUSSELL -&nbsp;The TMP-Marian Monarchs went on the road Tuesday for a Mid-Continent League matchup with their long-time rivals the Russell Broncos and it was the Russell girls earning a 49-45 &nbsp;victory while the TMP boys outlasted Russell in overtime, 67-64.GIRLS: Russell 49, TMP 45 Similar to the first meeting between the Monarchs (10-7, 4-2 MCL) and the Broncos, earlier this year in the fifth-place game of the MCL tournament, Russell (9-9, 5-3 MCL) ran out to a double-digital lead but this time there were able to hold off the Monarchs and picked up their first win against TMP since the 2019 season, 49-45.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2032189928&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/john-linn-postgame-interview-3" title="John Linn Postgame Interview vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">John Linn Postgame Interview vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)</a></div></div>Russell jumped out to an early 15-3 run with only Shalee Gottschalk’s three point field on the board for TMP.Over the final minute of the first and start of the second quarter TMP’s Brooke Koenigsman combined with Reagan Allen to score eight in-a-row, making it 15-11 Russell early in the second quarter.Russell again extended their lead to nine but&nbsp;TMP outscored Russell in the second quarter 16 to 9 as the Monarchs made it 24-21 Broncos at halftime.Brynn Rebel connected on a three pointer out of the quarter break tying the game briefly at 24.&nbsp;But Russell answered with an 11-2 run and led by seven at 38-31 through three quarters of the actionThe Monarchs opened the final frame by putting together a 14-6 run that allowed TMP to take the 45-44 on a Koenigsman three pointer.Koenigsman and Hannah Rose scored 12 of the 14 points during the run.But on the next Russell possession, Aubrey Birney scored on an offensive rebound to put the Broncos us 46-45 and they never trailed again in a 49-45 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2032192764&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-highlights-vs-russell" title="TMP WBKB Highlights vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)</a></div></div>Birney led all scorers with 12 points and seven rebounds. Koenigsman led TMP with 11 points and five rebounds.BOYS: TMP 67, Russell 64 It would take overtime to decided a winner Tuesday between the TMP boys and the Russell boys and it was TMP coming up with the 67-64 win<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2032189608&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bill-meagher-postgame-4" title="Bill Meagher Postgame Interview vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Bill Meagher Postgame Interview vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)</a></div></div>Jacob Seib scored the first four point of the game for the Monarchs as they jumped to an early 8-3 lead.&nbsp;The Monarchs (9-8, 5-1 MCL) led 15-7 after the first quarter.TMP continued to build their first-half lead and led by as many at 13 at 24-11 on an offensive rebound and put back by Seib in the second quarter.But the Monarchs went cold to close out the first half and that allowed Russell (9-8, 4-4 MCL) to climb back within one at halftime, 26-25.They then took the lead to open the second half at 27-26. The third quarter featured 10 lead changes and four ties before the Monarchs took a 42-41 lead into the final period of the regulation.In the fourth quarter Russell led by as many as four and TMP by as many as three but with TMP up three at 55-52, Jake Mooney hit a three pointer to send the game to overtime.In the extra frame, the Monarchs were six-of-eight at the line and Carson Liles was a perfect four-for-four. He scored four points and Jacob Seib scored six points in the overtime leading TMP to the 67-64 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2032191284&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-mbkb-highlights-vs-russell" title="TMP MBKB Highlights vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP MBKB Highlights vs Russell (Feb 11th 25)</a></div></div>Seib scored a career-high 23 points. Ty Schmeidler added 18 points and Liles finished with 14 points.Russell’s Trey Carlson had 31 points, 13 rebounds and blocked three shots in a losing effort.TMP with host Plainville on Thursday and Russell travels to Trego on Friday.&nbsp;

🏀 TMP-Marian splits MCL showdown with rival Russell

NEW ORLEANS – The Fort Hays State men's track and field team is ranked No. 25 in the latest U.S. Track &amp; Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) NCAA Division II National Rating Index, released Tuesday.

The Tigers have recorded 21 NCAA Division II provisional qualifying marks so far this season, highlighted by standout performances from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>. Albright has emerged as one of the top sprinters in the MIAA, securing provisional qualifying times in three events—the 60-meter dash (6.83), 200-meter dash (21.39), and 400-meter dash (47.93). He is still the only athlete in the conference to achieve provisional marks in all three sprint events this season.

In the field events,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jacob-clark/8482">Jacob Clark</a>&nbsp;continues to shine in the pole vault, ranking fourth in Division II after clearing 17-2.75 earlier this indoor season. He is joined by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/brady-deges/8485">Brady Deges</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/josiah-ball/8526">Josiah Ball</a>, who have also recorded provisional marks, making the Tigers one of the strongest pole vault squads in the nation. Additionally, multi-event athletes&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ethan-salmans/8502">Ethan Salmans</a>&nbsp;rank among the top heptathletes in the country.

Fort Hays State remains ranked seventh in the Central Region and holds the sixth spot in the MIAA. The Tigers also boast two event squads ranked in the top ten nationally, with the pole vault unit sitting at third in DII and the 200-meter squad ranked seventh.

Up next, Fort Hays State will compete at the 10th Annual Russ Jewett Indoor Gorilla Classic (Feb. 14-15) as the team looks to build momentum ahead of the MIAA Indoor Championships later this month (Feb. 28–March 2).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739366033834.png" alt="20" />
 <figcaption>20</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNEW ORLEANS – The Fort Hays State men's track and field team is ranked No. 25 in the latest U.S. Track &amp; Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) NCAA Division II National Rating Index, released Tuesday.The Tigers have recorded 21 NCAA Division II provisional qualifying marks so far this season, highlighted by standout performances from&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/hayden-albright/8477">Hayden Albright</a>. Albright has emerged as one of the top sprinters in the MIAA, securing provisional qualifying times in three events—the 60-meter dash (6.83), 200-meter dash (21.39), and 400-meter dash (47.93). He is still the only athlete in the conference to achieve provisional marks in all three sprint events this season.In the field events,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/jacob-clark/8482">Jacob Clark</a>&nbsp;continues to shine in the pole vault, ranking fourth in Division II after clearing 17-2.75 earlier this indoor season. He is joined by&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/brady-deges/8485">Brady Deges</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/josiah-ball/8526">Josiah Ball</a>, who have also recorded provisional marks, making the Tigers one of the strongest pole vault squads in the nation. Additionally, multi-event athletes&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/nolan-churchman/8479">Nolan Churchman</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/mens-track-and-field/roster/ethan-salmans/8502">Ethan Salmans</a>&nbsp;rank among the top heptathletes in the country.Fort Hays State remains ranked seventh in the Central Region and holds the sixth spot in the MIAA. The Tigers also boast two event squads ranked in the top ten nationally, with the pole vault unit sitting at third in DII and the 200-meter squad ranked seventh.Up next, Fort Hays State will compete at the 10th Annual Russ Jewett Indoor Gorilla Classic (Feb. 14-15) as the team looks to build momentum ahead of the MIAA Indoor Championships later this month (Feb. 28–March 2).&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏃‍♂️ Tiger men ranked 25th in latest USTFCCCA national rating index

The Fort Hays State women's basketball team moved up in both national polls this week, climbing to No. 7 in the WBCA DII Coaches Poll and jumping to No. 15 in the D2CSC Media Poll.

Fort Hays State (20-2) is one of 18 teams with at least 20 wins this season. This is the 14th season in a row that the Tigers have reached the 20-win plateau, the longest active streak in Division II and tied for the fifth-longest across all levels of NCAA women's basketball. The next-best streak in DII is Drury with 11, while the next-best streak in the MIAA is just three (MSSU, MWSU, PSU).

The Tigers picked up 432 points in the balloting process of the coaches poll this week, up 39 points from last week's total of 393 points. FHSU is 17 points behind sixth-ranked Texas-Tyler and 25 points behind fifth-ranked Pittsburg State, the only other MIAA school recognized in either poll.

This is the fourth time this season the Tigers have been ranked seventh in the coaches ranks and the 10th-such occurrence all-time. Fort Hays State is 14-1 all-time when ranked seventh, including a 4-1 record this season. The Tigers are 177-45 all-time when ranked, including a 124-26 mark when ranked inside the top 10.

The Tigers have now been included in the WBCA Top 25 in 116 separate releases, including 76 appearances in the top 10.

Fort Hays State added 72 points to its total in the media poll this week, now with 186 points in the voting process. The Tigers were also ranked 15th in the media poll back in late November (11/26).

Winners of seven in a row, the Tigers will be on the road this week beginning Thursday when they take on Emporia State beginning at 5:30 p.m.

WBCA DII Coaches Poll - February 11, 2025 Rk. - School (1st) - W-L - Pts. - Last 1 - Grand Valley State (22) - 24-1 - 574 - 1 2 - Texas Woman's - 23-1 - 548 - 2 3 - Cal State Dominguez Hills (1) - 24-0 - 527 - 3 4 - Bentley - 22-1 - 508 - 4 5 - Pittsburg State - 21-2 - 457 - 6 6 - Texas-Tyler - 21-2 - 449 - 7 7 - Fort Hays State - 20-2 - 432 - 8 8 - Ashland - 22-3 - 380 - 10 9 - Coker - 21-1 - 349 - 12 10 - North Georgia - 19-2 - 348 - 5 11 - Embry-Riddle - 19-2 - 340 - 13 12 - Concordia-St. Paul - 22-2 - 296 - 14t 13 - Lubbock Christian - 22-3 - 278 - 14t 14 - Seton Hill - 20-3 - 270 - 9 15 - Union (Tenn.) - 20-3 - 253 - 17 16 - Montana State Billings - 21-4 - 236 - 18 17 - Southwest Minnesota State - 22-2 - 231 - 19 18 - Azusa Pacific - 19-4 - 152 - 14t 19 - Tampa - 21-4 - 147 - 23 20 - Alaska Anchorage - 20-3 - 136 - 25 21 - Cal Poly Pomona - 18-4 - 97 - 22 22 - Lewis - 19-2 - 89 - RV 23t - Gannon - 20-5 - 72 - 11 23t - Nova Southeastern - 18-4 - 72 - 20 25 - Minnesota State Mankato - 19-5 - 57 - 21

Dropped Out:&nbsp;No. 24 Fairmont State (18-4)

Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Chowan (15-2) 51; Fairmont State (18-4) 33; Belmont Abbey (18-4) 24; UNC Pembroke (17-6) 10; Colorado Mesa (17-4) 8.

D2CSC Media Poll - February 11, 2025 Rk. - School (1st) - W-L - Pts. - Last 1 - Grand Valley State (13) - 24-1 - 373 - 1 2 - Texas Woman's &nbsp;- 23-1 - 352 - 2 3 - Cal State-Dominguez Hills (2) - 24-0 - 350 - 3 4 - Bentley - 22-1 - 326 - 4 5 - Pittsburg State - 21-2 - 307 - 5 6 - Texas Tyler - 21-2 - 290 - 6 7 - Embry-Riddle - 19-2 - 277 - T8 T8 - Coker - 21-1 - 272 - T8 T8 - Ashland - 22-3 - 257 - 10 10 - Concordia-St. Paul - 22-2 - 235 - 13 11 - Lubbock Christian &nbsp;- 22-3 - 206 - 14 12 - Seton Hill - 20-3 - 204 - 12 13 - Union - 20-3 - 192 - 15 14 - North Georgia - 19-2 - 190 - 11 15 - Fort Hays State - 20-2 - 186 - 17 16 - Alaska-Anchorage - 20-3 - 142 - 25 17 - Southwest Minnesota St. - 22-2 - 113 - 22 18 - Cal Poly- Pomona - 18-4 - 101 - 19 19 - Tampa - 21-4 - 100 - 24 20 - Lewis - 19-2 - 94 - RV 21 - Edinboro - 19-4 - 74 - NR 22 - Holy Family - 19-4 - 72 - 20 23 - Nova Southeastern - 18-4 - 39 - 18 24 - Colorado Mesa - 17-4 - 37 - RV 25 - Montana State Billings - 21-4 - 24 - RV

Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Belmont Abbey (20); Fairmont State (17); Gannon (12); Lee (5); Azusa Pacific (4); Lee (4)Dropped Out:&nbsp;(7) Gannon; (16) Azusa Pacific: (21) Malone; (23) Fairmont State&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739310271928.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsThe Fort Hays State women's basketball team moved up in both national polls this week, climbing to No. 7 in the WBCA DII Coaches Poll and jumping to No. 15 in the D2CSC Media Poll.Fort Hays State (20-2) is one of 18 teams with at least 20 wins this season. This is the 14th season in a row that the Tigers have reached the 20-win plateau, the longest active streak in Division II and tied for the fifth-longest across all levels of NCAA women's basketball. The next-best streak in DII is Drury with 11, while the next-best streak in the MIAA is just three (MSSU, MWSU, PSU).The Tigers picked up 432 points in the balloting process of the coaches poll this week, up 39 points from last week's total of 393 points. FHSU is 17 points behind sixth-ranked Texas-Tyler and 25 points behind fifth-ranked Pittsburg State, the only other MIAA school recognized in either poll.This is the fourth time this season the Tigers have been ranked seventh in the coaches ranks and the 10th-such occurrence all-time. Fort Hays State is 14-1 all-time when ranked seventh, including a 4-1 record this season. The Tigers are 177-45 all-time when ranked, including a 124-26 mark when ranked inside the top 10.The Tigers have now been included in the WBCA Top 25 in 116 separate releases, including 76 appearances in the top 10.Fort Hays State added 72 points to its total in the media poll this week, now with 186 points in the voting process. The Tigers were also ranked 15th in the media poll back in late November (11/26).Winners of seven in a row, the Tigers will be on the road this week beginning Thursday when they take on Emporia State beginning at 5:30 p.m.WBCA DII Coaches Poll - February 11, 2025 Rk. - School (1st) - W-L - Pts. - Last 1 - Grand Valley State (22) - 24-1 - 574 - 1 2 - Texas Woman's - 23-1 - 548 - 2 3 - Cal State Dominguez Hills (1) - 24-0 - 527 - 3 4 - Bentley - 22-1 - 508 - 4 5 - Pittsburg State - 21-2 - 457 - 6 6 - Texas-Tyler - 21-2 - 449 - 7 7 - Fort Hays State - 20-2 - 432 - 8 8 - Ashland - 22-3 - 380 - 10 9 - Coker - 21-1 - 349 - 12 10 - North Georgia - 19-2 - 348 - 5 11 - Embry-Riddle - 19-2 - 340 - 13 12 - Concordia-St. Paul - 22-2 - 296 - 14t 13 - Lubbock Christian - 22-3 - 278 - 14t 14 - Seton Hill - 20-3 - 270 - 9 15 - Union (Tenn.) - 20-3 - 253 - 17 16 - Montana State Billings - 21-4 - 236 - 18 17 - Southwest Minnesota State - 22-2 - 231 - 19 18 - Azusa Pacific - 19-4 - 152 - 14t 19 - Tampa - 21-4 - 147 - 23 20 - Alaska Anchorage - 20-3 - 136 - 25 21 - Cal Poly Pomona - 18-4 - 97 - 22 22 - Lewis - 19-2 - 89 - RV 23t - Gannon - 20-5 - 72 - 11 23t - Nova Southeastern - 18-4 - 72 - 20 25 - Minnesota State Mankato - 19-5 - 57 - 21Dropped Out:&nbsp;No. 24 Fairmont State (18-4)Receiving Votes:&nbsp;Chowan (15-2) 51; Fairmont State (18-4) 33; Belmont Abbey (18-4) 24; UNC Pembroke (17-6) 10; Colorado Mesa (17-4) 8.D2CSC Media Poll - February 11, 2025 Rk. - School (1st) - W-L - Pts. - Last 1 - Grand Valley State (13) - 24-1 - 373 - 1 2 - Texas Woman's &nbsp;- 23-1 - 352 - 2 3 - Cal State-Dominguez Hills (2) - 24-0 - 350 - 3 4 - Bentley - 22-1 - 326 - 4 5 - Pittsburg State - 21-2 - 307 - 5 6 - Texas Tyler - 21-2 - 290 - 6 7 - Embry-Riddle - 19-2 - 277 - T8 T8 - Coker - 21-1 - 272 - T8 T8 - Ashland - 22-3 - 257 - 10 10 - Concordia-St. Paul - 22-2 - 235 - 13 11 - Lubbock Christian &nbsp;- 22-3 - 206 - 14 12 - Seton Hill - 20-3 - 204 - 12 13 - Union - 20-3 - 192 - 15 14 - North Georgia - 19-2 - 190 - 11 15 - Fort Hays State - 20-2 - 186 - 17 16 - Alaska-Anchorage - 20-3 - 142 - 25 17 - Southwest Minnesota St. - 22-2 - 113 - 22 18 - Cal Poly- Pomona - 18-4 - 101 - 19 19 - Tampa - 21-4 - 100 - 24 20 - Lewis - 19-2 - 94 - RV 21 - Edinboro - 19-4 - 74 - NR 22 - Holy Family - 19-4 - 72 - 20 23 - Nova Southeastern - 18-4 - 39 - 18 24 - Colorado Mesa - 17-4 - 37 - RV 25 - Montana State Billings - 21-4 - 24 - RVReceiving Votes:&nbsp;Belmont Abbey (20); Fairmont State (17); Gannon (12); Lee (5); Azusa Pacific (4); Lee (4)Dropped Out:&nbsp;(7) Gannon; (16) Azusa Pacific: (21) Malone; (23) Fairmont State&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 Tiger women move up in both national polls

Hays USD 489 will not have school Wednesday due to weather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736111518831.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays USD 489 will not have school Wednesday due to weather.

Hays USD 489, no school Wednesday

The Hays High girls’ held at No. 5 in the latest Kansas
Wrestling Coaches Association 5A rankings out Tuesday afternoon. Shawnee
Heights remains No. 1 with Basehor-Linwood second, Kapaun Mt. Carmel third and
Newton fourth.

Six Indians continue to be ranked with not changes again
this week. Sophomore Eleanor Stoffel remains second at 190, senior Tionna Napue
second at 135, sophomore Timber Lovewell third at 145, junior Lexie Barnett
third at 155, sophomore Kenlee Vehige fourth at 120 and sophomore Emersyn
Copper sixth at 100.

Dalton Meyers remains third at 175 and Johnny Rigler fourth
at 190 for the Hays High boys.

Oakley takes over the top spot in 321A girls’ poll switching
spots with Norton who dropped to second. Russell remained third, Plainville fourth,
Hoisington fifth and Stockton sixth.

Hoxie tops 321A boys with Norton second, Phillipsburg
fourth, Russell fifth and Hill City eighth.

Area 321A girls individual rankings
 100:&nbsp;3. Carolina Nortrup – Stockton, 4. Kaeleigh Klein – Plainville 105:&nbsp;2. Keleigh Ochoa – Smith Center,&nbsp;5. Kya Bell – Hill City
 110:&nbsp;6. Kia Mader – Ellis
 115:&nbsp;4. Kallan Rothchild – Trego
 130:&nbsp;1. Ashlyn Hahn – Stockton,&nbsp;5. Annika Dietz – Trego
 140:&nbsp;3. Ella Normandin – Plainville &nbsp;145:&nbsp;3. Lillian Garcia – Plainville
 155:&nbsp;2. Zoe Brown – Plainville,&nbsp;6. Johnna Ebner – Phillipsburg
 190:&nbsp;2. Caydence Carter – Plainville,&nbsp;3. Kaitlyn McCreery –
Phillipsburg
 235:&nbsp;5. Rivver Long – Stockton

Area 321A boys individual rankings 113:&nbsp;2. Tate Blackwill – Quinter
 132:&nbsp;3. Kaden Sisson – Phillipsburg
 144:&nbsp;5. Seth Keeten – Phillipsburg
 150:&nbsp;2. Cole Keeten – Phillipsburg,&nbsp;4. Sylar Rohr – Hill City
 157:&nbsp;2. Blake Buresch – Phillipsburg,&nbsp;5. Jaxson Smith – Hill City
 175:&nbsp;2. Dayton Stephen – Hill City,&nbsp;6. Kayden Hudson – Phillipsburg
 285:&nbsp;1. Kharson Montgomery – Smith Center

GIRLS
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/All%20Class%20Girls%20Week%2010.pdf">All
Class Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/5A%20Girls%20Week%2010.pdf">5A
Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/321A%20Girls%20Week%2010.pdf">321A
Rankings</a>

BOYS
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/24-25%20Boys%20All%20Class%20Rankings%20Database%20-%20FINAL%20SHEET%20(28).pdf">All
Class Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/5A%20Boys%20Week%2010.pdf">5A
Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/321A%20Boys%20Week%2010.pdf">321A
Rankings</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604497727867.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe Hays High girls’ held at No. 5 in the latest Kansas
Wrestling Coaches Association 5A rankings out Tuesday afternoon. Shawnee
Heights remains No. 1 with Basehor-Linwood second, Kapaun Mt. Carmel third and
Newton fourth.Six Indians continue to be ranked with not changes again
this week. Sophomore Eleanor Stoffel remains second at 190, senior Tionna Napue
second at 135, sophomore Timber Lovewell third at 145, junior Lexie Barnett
third at 155, sophomore Kenlee Vehige fourth at 120 and sophomore Emersyn
Copper sixth at 100.Dalton Meyers remains third at 175 and Johnny Rigler fourth
at 190 for the Hays High boys.Oakley takes over the top spot in 321A girls’ poll switching
spots with Norton who dropped to second. Russell remained third, Plainville fourth,
Hoisington fifth and Stockton sixth.Hoxie tops 321A boys with Norton second, Phillipsburg
fourth, Russell fifth and Hill City eighth.Area 321A girls individual rankings
 100:&nbsp;3. Carolina Nortrup – Stockton, 4. Kaeleigh Klein – Plainville 105:&nbsp;2. Keleigh Ochoa – Smith Center,&nbsp;5. Kya Bell – Hill City
 110:&nbsp;6. Kia Mader – Ellis
 115:&nbsp;4. Kallan Rothchild – Trego
 130:&nbsp;1. Ashlyn Hahn – Stockton,&nbsp;5. Annika Dietz – Trego
 140:&nbsp;3. Ella Normandin – Plainville &nbsp;145:&nbsp;3. Lillian Garcia – Plainville
 155:&nbsp;2. Zoe Brown – Plainville,&nbsp;6. Johnna Ebner – Phillipsburg
 190:&nbsp;2. Caydence Carter – Plainville,&nbsp;3. Kaitlyn McCreery –
Phillipsburg
 235:&nbsp;5. Rivver Long – StocktonArea 321A boys individual rankings 113:&nbsp;2. Tate Blackwill – Quinter
 132:&nbsp;3. Kaden Sisson – Phillipsburg
 144:&nbsp;5. Seth Keeten – Phillipsburg
 150:&nbsp;2. Cole Keeten – Phillipsburg,&nbsp;4. Sylar Rohr – Hill City
 157:&nbsp;2. Blake Buresch – Phillipsburg,&nbsp;5. Jaxson Smith – Hill City
 175:&nbsp;2. Dayton Stephen – Hill City,&nbsp;6. Kayden Hudson – Phillipsburg
 285:&nbsp;1. Kharson Montgomery – Smith CenterGIRLS
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/All%20Class%20Girls%20Week%2010.pdf">All
Class Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/5A%20Girls%20Week%2010.pdf">5A
Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/321A%20Girls%20Week%2010.pdf">321A
Rankings</a>BOYS
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/24-25%20Boys%20All%20Class%20Rankings%20Database%20-%20FINAL%20SHEET%20(28).pdf">All
Class Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/5A%20Boys%20Week%2010.pdf">5A
Rankings</a>
 <a href="https://5starassets.blob.core.windows.net/multi-media/2636319/hub/321A%20Boys%20Week%2010.pdf">321A
Rankings</a>

🤼‍♀️ HHS girls hold at No. 5 in latest KWCA 5A rankings

The undefeated Hays High girls’ basketball team remained fourth
in the latest Kansas Basketball Coaches Association Class 5A rankings out Tuesday
afternoon. The Indians are 15-0 and will host state-ranked Liberal Friday. The Redskins girls returned to the 6A poll at No. 9.

The Hoxie girls moved up a spot to No. 5 in Class 2A. Oakley
also moved up a spot to No. 9.&nbsp; The Quinter girls held at No. 7 in 1A Division 1.
Wheatland-Grinnell jumped two spots to No. 8 in 1A Division 1.

The Victoria boys are ranked for the first time this season at No. 10 in 1A Division 2. The Knights ate 10-7 but have won three-straight and four of their last five games.

Logan-Palco held at No. 3 in 1A Division 1.

6A Girls 1. Derby 2. Blue Valley North 3. Wichita Heights 4. Olathe South 5. &nbsp;Blue Valley Northwest 6. Topeka-Washburn Rural 7. Olathe North 8. Wichita East 9. &nbsp;Liberal 10. Olathe West

5A Girls 1. Topeka Seaman 2. Lenexa-St. James Academy 3. Andover 4. Hays 5. Kansas City Piper 6. Maize South 7. De Soto 8. OP-St. Thomas Aquinas 9. Wichita-Bishop Carroll 10. Spring Hill

4A Girls 1. Topeka Hayden 2. Wellington 3. Eudora 4. Roeland Park-Bishop Miege 5. Fort Scott 6. Altamont-Labette County 7. Clay Center 8. St. George-Rock Creek 9. Buhler 10. Pratt

3A Girls 1. Hesston 2. Halstead 3. Osage City 4. Colby 5. Riley County 6. Silver Lake 7. Girard 8. Cheney 9. Kismet-Southwestern Heights 10. Haven

2A Girls 1. Pittsburg-St. Mary's Colgan 2. Leoti-Wichita County 3. Moundridge 4. Inman 5. Hoxie 6. Highland-Doniphan West 7. Bennington 8. Ellinwood 9. Oakley 10. Eureka

1A Division 1 Girls 1. Little River 2. Centralia 3. Clyde-Clifton Clyde 4. Claflin-Central Plains 5. Montezuma-South Gray 6. Troy 7. Quinter 8. Atwood-Rawlins County 9. St. John-Hudson 10. Mankato-Rock Hills

1A Division 2 Girls 1. Lebo 2. Hanover 3. Wallace County-Sharon Springs 4. South Haven 5. Bucklin 6. Attica 7. Jetmore-Hodgeman County 8. Wheatland-Grinnell 9. Hartford 10. Cheylin

6A Boys 1. Derby 2. Shawnee Mission Northwest 3. Shawnee Mission South 4. Shawnee-Mill Valley 5. Wichita Heights 6. Blue Valley North 7. Blue Valley 8. Olathe North 9. Wichita Northwest 10. Blue Valley Northwest

5A Boys 1. Topeka-Highland Park 2. Kansas City Piper 3. Wichita-Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4. Great Bend 5. Bonner Springs 6. Andover 7. Topeka Seaman 8. Tecumseh-Shawnee Heights 9. Emporia 10. Kansas City-Washington

4A Boys 1. Ottawa 2. McPherson 3. St. George-Rock Creek 4. Topeka-Hayden 5. Baldwin 6. Chanute 7. Andale 8. Pratt 9. Concordia 10. Clay Center

3A Boys 1. Goodland 2. Haven 3. Wichita Collegiate 4. Lakin 5. Cheney 6. Hesston 7. Nemaha Central 8. Galena 9. St. Mary's 10. Holcomb

2A Boys 1. Moundridge 2. Salina-Sacred Heart 3. Sterling 4. Brookville-Ell Saline 5. Atchison-Maur Hill Mount Academy 6. Rossville 7. Bennington 8. Elbing-Berean Academy 9. Hillsboro 10. Syracuse

1A Division 1 Boys 1. Coldwater-South Central 2. Olpe 3. Lawrence-Seabury Academy 4. Montezuma-South Gray 5. Burlingame 6. Burden-Central 7. Oxford 8. Claflin-Central Plains 9. Macksville 10. Lincoln

1A Division 2 Boys 1. Cunningham 2. Axtell 3. Logan-Palco 4. Hanover 5. McPherson-Elyria Christian 6. Dighton 7. Jetmore-Hodgeman County 8. Weskan 9. St. John-Tipton 10. &nbsp;Victoria

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712064660369.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostThe undefeated Hays High girls’ basketball team remained fourth
in the latest Kansas Basketball Coaches Association Class 5A rankings out Tuesday
afternoon. The Indians are 15-0 and will host state-ranked Liberal Friday. The Redskins girls returned to the 6A poll at No. 9.The Hoxie girls moved up a spot to No. 5 in Class 2A. Oakley
also moved up a spot to No. 9.&nbsp; The Quinter girls held at No. 7 in 1A Division 1.
Wheatland-Grinnell jumped two spots to No. 8 in 1A Division 1.The Victoria boys are ranked for the first time this season at No. 10 in 1A Division 2. The Knights ate 10-7 but have won three-straight and four of their last five games.Great Bend remained fourth in 5A.Logan-Palco held at No. 3 in 1A Division 1.6A Girls 1. Derby 2. Blue Valley North 3. Wichita Heights 4. Olathe South 5. &nbsp;Blue Valley Northwest 6. Topeka-Washburn Rural 7. Olathe North 8. Wichita East 9. &nbsp;Liberal 10. Olathe West5A Girls 1. Topeka Seaman 2. Lenexa-St. James Academy 3. Andover 4. Hays 5. Kansas City Piper 6. Maize South 7. De Soto 8. OP-St. Thomas Aquinas 9. Wichita-Bishop Carroll 10. Spring Hill4A Girls 1. Topeka Hayden 2. Wellington 3. Eudora 4. Roeland Park-Bishop Miege 5. Fort Scott 6. Altamont-Labette County 7. Clay Center 8. St. George-Rock Creek 9. Buhler 10. Pratt3A Girls 1. Hesston 2. Halstead 3. Osage City 4. Colby 5. Riley County 6. Silver Lake 7. Girard 8. Cheney 9. Kismet-Southwestern Heights 10. Haven 2A Girls 1. Pittsburg-St. Mary's Colgan 2. Leoti-Wichita County 3. Moundridge 4. Inman 5. Hoxie 6. Highland-Doniphan West 7. Bennington 8. Ellinwood 9. Oakley 10. Eureka1A Division 1 Girls 1. Little River 2. Centralia 3. Clyde-Clifton Clyde 4. Claflin-Central Plains 5. Montezuma-South Gray 6. Troy 7. Quinter 8. Atwood-Rawlins County 9. St. John-Hudson 10. Mankato-Rock Hills1A Division 2 Girls 1. Lebo 2. Hanover 3. Wallace County-Sharon Springs 4. South Haven 5. Bucklin 6. Attica 7. Jetmore-Hodgeman County 8. Wheatland-Grinnell 9. Hartford 10. Cheylin6A Boys 1. Derby 2. Shawnee Mission Northwest 3. Shawnee Mission South 4. Shawnee-Mill Valley 5. Wichita Heights 6. Blue Valley North 7. Blue Valley 8. Olathe North 9. Wichita Northwest 10. Blue Valley Northwest5A Boys 1. Topeka-Highland Park 2. Kansas City Piper 3. Wichita-Kapaun Mt. Carmel 4. Great Bend 5. Bonner Springs 6. Andover 7. Topeka Seaman 8. Tecumseh-Shawnee Heights 9. Emporia 10. Kansas City-Washington4A Boys 1. Ottawa 2. McPherson 3. St. George-Rock Creek 4. Topeka-Hayden 5. Baldwin 6. Chanute 7. Andale 8. Pratt 9. Concordia 10. Clay Center3A Boys 1. Goodland 2. Haven 3. Wichita Collegiate 4. Lakin 5. Cheney 6. Hesston 7. Nemaha Central 8. Galena 9. St. Mary's 10. Holcomb2A Boys 1. Moundridge 2. Salina-Sacred Heart 3. Sterling 4. Brookville-Ell Saline 5. Atchison-Maur Hill Mount Academy 6. Rossville 7. Bennington 8. Elbing-Berean Academy 9. Hillsboro 10. Syracuse 1A Division 1 Boys 1. Coldwater-South Central 2. Olpe 3. Lawrence-Seabury Academy 4. Montezuma-South Gray 5. Burlingame 6. Burden-Central 7. Oxford 8. Claflin-Central Plains 9. Macksville 10. Lincoln1A Division 2 Boys 1. Cunningham 2. Axtell 3. Logan-Palco 4. Hanover 5. McPherson-Elyria Christian 6. Dighton 7. Jetmore-Hodgeman County 8. Weskan 9. St. John-Tipton 10. &nbsp;Victoria

🏀 HHS girls hold, Victoria boys debut in latest KBCA rankings

The Environmental Services Director discussed a proposal for implementing unsecured load fees at the county landfill at Tuesday's Ellis County Commission meeting.

Justin Craig, director of Environmental Services, said the fees to improve road cleanliness and safety rather than profit.

"The intent would not be to generate any additional revenue at the landfill, but it's something that we possibly just need to address as a community," he said.

Craig said other counties that have implemented similar fees. In Ellis County, unsecured loads frequently spill trash and debris onto the roads.

Craig said potential fee options include a 50% increase in tipping fees or a $10 flat fee.

Concerns were raised about enforcement, such as defining a secured load and the potential for increased illegal dumping, which Sheriff Scott Braun said is already a frequent issue.

This is a continuation of a past discussion. Craig will draft a tentative policy for consideration.

County Administrator Darin Myers presented on multiple topics, including United Way funding and a support letter for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant.

The county commission approved a $5,000 contribution to the United Way of Ellis County to support the Care Council.

The commission also signed a letter of support for the city of Hays' application for a&nbsp;Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant. The grant aims to help fund the R9 Ranch in Edwards County.

Myers said Hays received a FEMA technical assistance grant, which helped enhance their application.

City Manager Toby Dougherty provided an update on the project, saying the design is 60% complete, cost estimates have stabilized and land acquisition for pipeline easements will begin in two months.

Jay Harris, executive director of the Cottonwood Extension District, provided updates on new initiatives and community concerns.

Harris said the district intends to hire a community health worker for Ellis County to focus on various health issues, including mental health and the aging population's needs.

The district plans to obtain funding through grants and other sources but may request county support if necessary.

The Cottonwood District also wants to join the Extension Disaster Education Network program to improve coordination with emergency response efforts and work with Ellis County's disaster response plan.

Human Resources Manager Jennifer Taylor presented the annual Employee Service Awards program for the commission to recognize county employees for their years of service.

Employees were honored for reaching milestones from five to 40 years of employment with Ellis County.

Employees reaching eight-year and 16-year anniversaries were recognized with Kansas Association of Counties awards.

"Thank you very much for the service and work you do for the public. The years of experience that we put into our county shows every day,"&nbsp;County Commission Chairman Michael Berges said.&nbsp;

A list of recognized employees are below.

5 years with Ellis County Aaron Cunningham (Attorney’s Office), Austin Tammen (Fire), Ben Mettlen (Fire), Chris Browning (Fire), Dean Klaus (Solid Waste), Dustin Karlin (Information Technology), Greg Timmons (Fire), Justin Craig (Environmental Services), Justin Miller (Public Works), Katelynn Keiswetter (EMS), Lyle Pantle (Fire &amp; Emergency Management), Shane Sulzman (Public Works)

10 years with Ellis County Emma Scofield (EMS), Jayson Dinkel (Communications), Larry Rohr (Public Works), Meagan Stremel (Public Works), Rusty Lindsay (Fire)

15 years with Ellis County Cole Dinges (Fire), David Fitzhugh (EMS), Kami Weber (Fire)

20 years with Ellis County Garrett Brening (Sheriff’s Office), Kay Rohr (Solid Waste), Mike Weber (Appraiser’s Office), Tabatha Deines (Sheriff’s Office)

25 years with Ellis County Danita Schroeder (EMS), Gary Haas (Noxious Weed)

30 years with Ellis County Roberta Oborny (Sheriff’s Office)

35 years with Ellis County Greg Erbert (Buildings &amp; Grounds)

40 years with Ellis County Chris Vonlintel (Public Works)

8 year KAC Awards Braden Parke (Sheriff’s Office), Brandon Kuhn (Public Works), Ty Mcculloch (Sheriff’s Office)

16 year KAC Awards Becky Schumacher (Attorney’s Office), Brian Meis (Communications Center)

40 year KAC Awards Chris Vonlintel (Public Works)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Environmental Services Director discussed a proposal for implementing unsecured load fees at the county landfill at Tuesday's Ellis County Commission meeting.Justin Craig, director of Environmental Services, said the fees to improve road cleanliness and safety rather than profit."The intent would not be to generate any additional revenue at the landfill, but it's something that we possibly just need to address as a community," he said.Craig said other counties that have implemented similar fees. In Ellis County, unsecured loads frequently spill trash and debris onto the roads.Craig said potential fee options include a 50% increase in tipping fees or a $10 flat fee.Concerns were raised about enforcement, such as defining a secured load and the potential for increased illegal dumping, which Sheriff Scott Braun said is already a frequent issue.This is a continuation of a past discussion. Craig will draft a tentative policy for consideration.<h2>United Way and grant support letter</h2>County Administrator Darin Myers presented on multiple topics, including United Way funding and a support letter for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant.The county commission approved a $5,000 contribution to the United Way of Ellis County to support the Care Council.The commission also signed a letter of support for the city of Hays' application for a&nbsp;Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant. The grant aims to help fund the R9 Ranch in Edwards County.Myers said Hays received a FEMA technical assistance grant, which helped enhance their application.City Manager Toby Dougherty provided an update on the project, saying the design is 60% complete, cost estimates have stabilized and land acquisition for pipeline easements will begin in two months.<h2>Cottonwood extension district update</h2>Jay Harris, executive director of the Cottonwood Extension District, provided updates on new initiatives and community concerns.Harris said the district intends to hire a community health worker for Ellis County to focus on various health issues, including mental health and the aging population's needs.The district plans to obtain funding through grants and other sources but may request county support if necessary.The Cottonwood District also wants to join the Extension Disaster Education Network program to improve coordination with emergency response efforts and work with Ellis County's disaster response plan.<h2>Recognized employees</h2>Human Resources Manager Jennifer Taylor presented the annual Employee Service Awards program for the commission to recognize county employees for their years of service.Employees were honored for reaching milestones from five to 40 years of employment with Ellis County.Employees reaching eight-year and 16-year anniversaries were recognized with Kansas Association of Counties awards."Thank you very much for the service and work you do for the public. The years of experience that we put into our county shows every day,"&nbsp;County Commission Chairman Michael Berges said.&nbsp;A list of recognized employees are below.5 years with Ellis County Aaron Cunningham (Attorney’s Office), Austin Tammen (Fire), Ben Mettlen (Fire), Chris Browning (Fire), Dean Klaus (Solid Waste), Dustin Karlin (Information Technology), Greg Timmons (Fire), Justin Craig (Environmental Services), Justin Miller (Public Works), Katelynn Keiswetter (EMS), Lyle Pantle (Fire &amp; Emergency Management), Shane Sulzman (Public Works)10 years with Ellis County Emma Scofield (EMS), Jayson Dinkel (Communications), Larry Rohr (Public Works), Meagan Stremel (Public Works), Rusty Lindsay (Fire)15 years with Ellis County Cole Dinges (Fire), David Fitzhugh (EMS), Kami Weber (Fire)20 years with Ellis County Garrett Brening (Sheriff’s Office), Kay Rohr (Solid Waste), Mike Weber (Appraiser’s Office), Tabatha Deines (Sheriff’s Office)25 years with Ellis County Danita Schroeder (EMS), Gary Haas (Noxious Weed)30 years with Ellis County Roberta Oborny (Sheriff’s Office)35 years with Ellis County Greg Erbert (Buildings &amp; Grounds)40 years with Ellis County Chris Vonlintel (Public Works)8 year KAC Awards Braden Parke (Sheriff’s Office), Brandon Kuhn (Public Works), Ty Mcculloch (Sheriff’s Office)16 year KAC Awards Becky Schumacher (Attorney’s Office), Brian Meis (Communications Center)40 year KAC Awards Chris Vonlintel (Public Works)

Ellis Co. Commission discusses landfill fee, presents service awards

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for Hays and surrounding counties.&nbsp;

Snow will spread into western Kansas this afternoon, according to the weather service. The snow will become steadier and heavier at times after 10 p.m. as the snow expands in coverage tonight.

The National Weather Service forecasts new snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches tonight for Hays.&nbsp;

An additional 1 to 3 inches of accumulation is forecast for Hays on Wednesday.

 Near and south of a Johnson to Ulysses to Pratt line, there may also be a chance for freezing rain/drizzle early in the event.

In addition to snow, windchills are forecast to be dangerously low through Thursday morning, according to the weather service.

Wind chills below zero are possible on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Thursday morning will be the coldest, with wind chills as low as 10 to near 20 degrees below zero.

The National Weather Service in Goodland also forecasts snowfall chances for the northwest corner of Kansas today and tonight.

Moderate to occasionally heavy snow is forecast to develop tonight, according to the weather service. Minor blowing and drifting snow is possible with 10-20 mph winds. Confidence is medium to high in the snow and the amounts. Impacts on travel are expected.

Hays PostThe National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for Hays and surrounding counties.&nbsp;Snow will spread into western Kansas this afternoon, according to the weather service. The snow will become steadier and heavier at times after 10 p.m. as the snow expands in coverage tonight.The National Weather Service forecasts new snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches tonight for Hays.&nbsp;An additional 1 to 3 inches of accumulation is forecast for Hays on Wednesday. Near and south of a Johnson to Ulysses to Pratt line, there may also be a chance for freezing rain/drizzle early in the event.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739290552591.png" alt="National Weather Service Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition to snow, windchills are forecast to be dangerously low through Thursday morning, according to the weather service.Wind chills below zero are possible on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. Thursday morning will be the coldest, with wind chills as low as 10 to near 20 degrees below zero. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739290664924.png" alt="National Weather Service Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Goodland also forecasts snowfall chances for the northwest corner of Kansas today and tonight.Moderate to occasionally heavy snow is forecast to develop tonight, according to the weather service. Minor blowing and drifting snow is possible with 10-20 mph winds. Confidence is medium to high in the snow and the amounts. Impacts on travel are expected.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739291010617.png" alt="National Weather Service Goodland" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service Goodland</figcaption>
 </figure>

Snow set to start this afternoon, dangerous windchills

Tuesday, February 11
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Russell, 4:10pm KKQY: Hoxie MWBKB at Trego, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs. Colorado, 6:30pm

Wednesday, February 12
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pm

Thursday, February 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB at Emporia State, 5:05pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WMBKB vs. Plainville, 5:40pm
 KKQY: Quinter WMBMB at Hill City, approx. 5:45pm

Friday, February 14
 KKQY: Ness City MWBKB
at Otis-Bison, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs, Liberal, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Phillipsburg, 5:40pm

Saturday, February 15
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB at Newman, 1:05pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at Utah, 7:30pm

Tuesday, February 11
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Russell, 4:10pm KKQY: Hoxie MWBKB at Trego, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs. Colorado, 6:30pm Wednesday, February 12
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pmThursday, February 13
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB at Emporia State, 5:05pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WMBKB vs. Plainville, 5:40pm
 KKQY: Quinter WMBMB at Hill City, approx. 5:45pmFriday, February 14
 KKQY: Ness City MWBKB
at Otis-Bison, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs, Liberal, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Phillipsburg, 5:40pmSaturday, February 15
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB at Newman, 1:05pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at Utah, 7:30pmSunday, February 16 none

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The 8th-ranked Fort Hays State women go for their 20th win of the season when they host MIAA newcomer Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.

The 8th-ranked Fort Hays State women go for their 20th win of the season when they host MIAA newcomer Arkansas-Fort Smith on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays, Kan.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind-WBB vs. Arkansas-Fort Smith" 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=q9e6t-17f5e4e-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. Arkansas-Fort Smith

Ivonne Trejo, a Fort Hays State University student, is dedicated to helping future generations of immigrants navigate the United States as her parents once did.

"Most immigrants come to the U.S. to find opportunities and to have a better living situation," Trejo said. "That's something that their home countries may not have been able to provide for them."

Hays churches, schools, law enforcement and students who have taken to the streets share their perspectives on the increasing deportation efforts.

Within a week of taking office, President Donald Trump removed guidelines that had limited Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations at sensitive locations like schools and churches, according to the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-trump-border-security-enforcement-ice-cb40a6a7e2d94582aa0774be47a8ab36">Associated Press</a>.

Trump is also attempting to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented parents, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-birthright-citizenship-executive-order-3ac5d6dc51ee95dcccc647a8c080c3e3">though a federal judge has halted the policy</a>.

Law enforcement agencies across the region, including Kansas, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-27/ice-deportations-immigration-midwest-kansas-missouri-iowa-nebraska">released statements</a> outlining their roles in mass deportation efforts.

Hays institutions shared their perspectives on the increase in deportation efforts under the new administration.

Associate Pastor Troy Miller of Hays First United Methodist Church said the church's goal is to love God and embrace all people, regardless of their background.

"Our mission would simply be to love God and love people. We're here to embrace all people, no matter who they are," Miller said.

Miller said the Hays First United Methodist Church does not monitor its members' immigration status and does not have the legal authority to provide sanctuary.

Miller directs individuals to the Great Plains Conference <a href="https://www.greatplainsumc.org/united-methodist-position-on-immigration">website </a>for information and immigration-related resources.

The United Methodist Church supports fair and humane immigration reform. It advocates for comprehensive legislation that ensures a path to citizenship, worker protections, family reunification, the restoration of the rule of law and enhanced security.

UMC congregations are encouraged to connect with the immigrant community as Hays UMC provides Spanish-language worship services.

"We don't ask questions. If I have documented or undocumented people in my church, I have no idea because that's not a prerequisite for entering the church," Miller said.

Miller said churches have never been legally exempt from law enforcement entry. While ICE would need a warrant for specific information, it does not require one to enter the building.

Rev. Nick Parker said Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and its school do not gather information on immigration status either.

"If someone were to come to our church or school asking about immigration status, we just don't have that information to give," he said.

Parker said that the diocese requires proper identification and documentation if any official wishes to investigate. The church will then cooperate with authorities justly and fairly.

Parker said Immaculate Heart of Mary welcomes everyone and offers Spanish-language services and Hispanic ministry programs.

"We try to do a lot for the Hispanic community. They've really developed an amazing team and are running themselves a lot now," Parker said.

Hays USD 489 Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel said the school district follows existing student privacy policies and does not track immigration status.

"Inquiring about a student's immigration status is not something we can do. There are guidance with [Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act] and the right to an education," Dinkel said.&nbsp;

The Kansas State Department of Education released a statement in response to a U.S. Department of Homeland Security directive that rescinded previous restrictions on immigration enforcement in or near schools.

The statement clarifies that although the directive was rescinded, it did not alter existing laws or expand Homeland Security's authority.

USD 489 also issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to educating all students, regardless of immigration status. The district highlights key policies, such as prohibiting staff from inquiring about or disclosing a student’s immigration status.

Additionally, all ICE requests must be submitted to the superintendent’s office and reviewed by legal counsel.

Families seeking immigration guidance are directed to local and community resources. Dinkel said neither federal nor state agencies have contacted the school district about deportations.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler also said ICE has not contacted the department since the start of the Trump administration and immigration enforcement is not a priority.

"I don't care for your status. My focus and the mission of the police department is the safety of this community," Scheibler said.&nbsp;"As far as immigration activities, the federal agencies take care of that."

Despite changes in federal policy, the department's operations will remain the same. Federal authorities will handle deportation efforts if they do occur in Hays.

Scheibler said the department depends on community cooperation to combat crime and urges all residents to report criminal activity without fear or hesitation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739217941394.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostIvonne Trejo, a Fort Hays State University student, is dedicated to helping future generations of immigrants navigate the United States as her parents once did."Most immigrants come to the U.S. to find opportunities and to have a better living situation," Trejo said. "That's something that their home countries may not have been able to provide for them."Hays churches, schools, law enforcement and students who have taken to the streets share their perspectives on the increasing deportation efforts.Within a week of taking office, President Donald Trump removed guidelines that had limited Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations at sensitive locations like schools and churches, according to the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-trump-border-security-enforcement-ice-cb40a6a7e2d94582aa0774be47a8ab36">Associated Press</a>.Trump is also attempting to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented parents, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-birthright-citizenship-executive-order-3ac5d6dc51ee95dcccc647a8c080c3e3">though a federal judge has halted the policy</a>.Law enforcement agencies across the region, including Kansas, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-27/ice-deportations-immigration-midwest-kansas-missouri-iowa-nebraska">released statements</a> outlining their roles in mass deportation efforts.Hays institutions shared their perspectives on the increase in deportation efforts under the new administration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739218508253.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs on Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Churches</h2>Associate Pastor Troy Miller of Hays First United Methodist Church said the church's goal is to love God and embrace all people, regardless of their background."Our mission would simply be to love God and love people. We're here to embrace all people, no matter who they are," Miller said.Miller said the Hays First United Methodist Church does not monitor its members' immigration status and does not have the legal authority to provide sanctuary.Miller directs individuals to the Great Plains Conference <a href="https://www.greatplainsumc.org/united-methodist-position-on-immigration">website </a>for information and immigration-related resources.The United Methodist Church supports fair and humane immigration reform. It advocates for comprehensive legislation that ensures a path to citizenship, worker protections, family reunification, the restoration of the rule of law and enhanced security.UMC congregations are encouraged to connect with the immigrant community as Hays UMC provides Spanish-language worship services."We don't ask questions. If I have documented or undocumented people in my church, I have no idea because that's not a prerequisite for entering the church," Miller said.Miller said churches have never been legally exempt from law enforcement entry. While ICE would need a warrant for specific information, it does not require one to enter the building.Rev. Nick Parker said Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church and its school do not gather information on immigration status either."If someone were to come to our church or school asking about immigration status, we just don't have that information to give," he said.Parker said that the diocese requires proper identification and documentation if any official wishes to investigate. The church will then cooperate with authorities justly and fairly.Parker said Immaculate Heart of Mary welcomes everyone and offers Spanish-language services and Hispanic ministry programs."We try to do a lot for the Hispanic community. They've really developed an amazing team and are running themselves a lot now," Parker said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739217990184.jpeg" alt="A protestor with a sign Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A protestor with a sign Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Hays USD 489</h2>Hays USD 489 Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel said the school district follows existing student privacy policies and does not track immigration status."Inquiring about a student's immigration status is not something we can do. There are guidance with [Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act] and the right to an education," Dinkel said.&nbsp;The Kansas State Department of Education released a statement in response to a U.S. Department of Homeland Security directive that rescinded previous restrictions on immigration enforcement in or near schools.The statement clarifies that although the directive was rescinded, it did not alter existing laws or expand Homeland Security's authority.USD 489 also issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to educating all students, regardless of immigration status. The district highlights key policies, such as prohibiting staff from inquiring about or disclosing a student’s immigration status.Additionally, all ICE requests must be submitted to the superintendent’s office and reviewed by legal counsel.Families seeking immigration guidance are directed to local and community resources. Dinkel said neither federal nor state agencies have contacted the school district about deportations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739218051368.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Hays Police Department</h2>Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler also said ICE has not contacted the department since the start of the Trump administration and immigration enforcement is not a priority."I don't care for your status. My focus and the mission of the police department is the safety of this community," Scheibler said.&nbsp;"As far as immigration activities, the federal agencies take care of that."Despite changes in federal policy, the department's operations will remain the same. Federal authorities will handle deportation efforts if they do occur in Hays.Scheibler said the department depends on community cooperation to combat crime and urges all residents to report criminal activity without fear or hesitation."I need people to tell me when their daughter's been raped and tell me who is selling drugs at the high school. We must have that open relationship and ensure we work together to keep this community safe," he said.Due to anxiety, people have asked the Hays Police Department if ICE is in the community, Scheibler said.Scheibler said if ICE does contact Hays police regarding a serious criminal in the community, they will cooperate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739218242856.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Students and protest</h2>Having grown up in a struggling household, Trejo recalls the challenges her parents faced and aims to help other immigrants."I want to pursue social work because I want to make sure that people have those resources and are aware of them. If they're struggling financially, I want to lead them to a better place," she said.Trejo recalls a time as a kid when she translated English for her mother in everyday situations and had trouble with transportation.&nbsp;"We lived about half a mile away from the school. She would have me on one hand, my sister on the other, while my brother was walking in front of her," Trejo said.The family also struggled financially, living paycheck to paycheck. Due to the high cost of living, limited job opportunities and ignorance of available resources, they could not afford the necessities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739234131382.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Joanna Sanchez, a first-generation Fort Hays State University student, is majoring in social work and Spanish with a minor in leadership.Born in Great Bend, her family originated from Mexico before relocating to Michigan and eventually settling in Kansas. Her father became a U.S. citizen in 2024."I feel scared, threatened, and even disgusted by the way everything is playing out," Sanchez said regarding the increase in ICE deportations.Sanchez said while she supports the deportation of criminals involved in rape and murder, she spotlights hardworking immigrants, particularly those of Hispanic descent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739218400072.jpeg" alt="Joanna Sanchez with a protest sign Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Joanna Sanchez with a protest sign Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>She said the deportations have sparked widespread fear among Hispanics, regardless of legal status, making them hesitant to leave their homes."These raids and deportation efforts have targeted brown immigrants," she said. "White immigrants are less likely to be targeted because it is difficult to 'suspect' their legal status due to their skin color."Sanchez said her loved ones live in fear and urge others to understand their rights when facing ICE encounters, including not opening the door, not answering questions and not signing anything. She also warns that deportation efforts coming to the area."I only hope people realize the importance of immigrants in our country and that immigrants learn to advocate and fend for themselves in situations that could've been prevented through education and awareness," she said.FHSU Student Karina Vargas said while her family members are American citizens, she regularly checks in on her friends."I do have a couple of friends who are undocumented, and I check on them a couple of times a week just to make sure they're OK," she said.Vargas said her friends who are pursuing higher education live in fear of deportation. While she acknowledges the need to deport individuals convicted of serious crimes, she opposes the deportation of hard-working immigrants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739218328604.jpeg" alt="Karina Vargas with a protest Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Karina Vargas with a protest Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"There are a lot of criminals who don't do good for American society, and there are a lot of immigrants who do good for society economically," she said.Vargas's grandparents immigrated to the U.S. in 1977.&nbsp;Following the example of her mother, a K-State graduate, she is pursuing a nursing degree.In regards to her family, Trejo said they came to the U.S. in pursuit of a better life, and she supports the deportation of individuals involved in violent crimes.Trejo also expresses concern about how deportations are carried out and advocates for the humane treatment of undocumented immigrants."We're just here to have the same opportunities as everyone else should in this world," she said.Other policy changes protestors said they would like to see include easier, faster, and more accessible pathways to legal status and prevention of family separations.Protesters also highlighted issues including LGBTQ+ rights, abortion and Elon Musk's influence within the Trump administration.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739234215618.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739234246602.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739234293117.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739234316866.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739234341248.jpeg" alt="Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Protesters with signs Saturday on the corner of 27th and Vine St. in Hays. Photo By Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>