COLBY — The Colby Community College Registrar's Office has announced the list of students who earned degrees and certificates during the fall 2024 semester.

Names are published alphabetically by home location as indicated by the student. Kansas residents are arranged by city, out-of-state residents are listed by city and state, and international students by country. Some names have been withheld upon request.

Colby:&nbsp;Oaklynn Carman, Paige DeGood, Julia Jesus, Fatoumata Singhateh.&nbsp;Grainfield:&nbsp;Zachary Gillespie.&nbsp;

Atwood:&nbsp;Cashlyn Withington.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Fatoumata Singhateh.&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Nikolas Armbrister.&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Katherine McCue.&nbsp;

Hays:&nbsp;Gentry Sproul.&nbsp;Osborne:&nbsp;Helen Carlin.&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Abby Babcock, Emma Hunnacutt.&nbsp;Timken:&nbsp;Reagan Krehbiel.&nbsp;WaKeeney:&nbsp;Hadley Folsom.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

CERTIFICATES&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Smith Center:&nbsp;Shelbylynn Maydew.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611227923055.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>CCCCOLBY — The Colby Community College Registrar's Office has announced the list of students who earned degrees and certificates during the fall 2024 semester.Names are published alphabetically by home location as indicated by the student. Kansas residents are arranged by city, out-of-state residents are listed by city and state, and international students by country. Some names have been withheld upon request.Area students include:&nbsp;ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCEColby:&nbsp;Oaklynn Carman, Paige DeGood, Julia Jesus, Fatoumata Singhateh.&nbsp;Grainfield:&nbsp;Zachary Gillespie.&nbsp;ASSOCIATE OF ARTSAtwood:&nbsp;Cashlyn Withington.&nbsp;Colby:&nbsp;Fatoumata Singhateh.&nbsp;Norton:&nbsp;Nikolas Armbrister.&nbsp;Scott City:&nbsp;Katherine McCue.&nbsp;ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCEHays:&nbsp;Gentry Sproul.&nbsp;Osborne:&nbsp;Helen Carlin.&nbsp;Phillipsburg:&nbsp;Abby Babcock, Emma Hunnacutt.&nbsp;Timken:&nbsp;Reagan Krehbiel.&nbsp;WaKeeney:&nbsp;Hadley Folsom.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;CERTIFICATES&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Smith Center:&nbsp;Shelbylynn Maydew.&nbsp;

Area students earn CCC fall degrees, certificates 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Fort Hays State University's International Student Union ringed in the Lunar New Year on Friday under the glow of decorations and aroma of fresh dumplings.

The event featured a presentation on the Lunar New Year, snake-themed crafts, a raffle and Asian cuisines.

The date of the Lunar Year is based on the traditional Chinese calendar and usually falls between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. This year, the Lunar New Year fell on Jan. 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377268940.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University's International Student Union ringed in the Lunar New Year on Friday under the glow of decorations and aroma of fresh dumplings.The event featured a presentation on the Lunar New Year, snake-themed crafts, a raffle and Asian cuisines.The date of the Lunar Year is based on the traditional Chinese calendar and usually falls between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. This year, the Lunar New Year fell on Jan. 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377367571.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377398171.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377444837.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377488703.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377568103.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377635604.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377688335.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377745217.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377841418.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377810901.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377914344.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738377940499.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378002954.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378056922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378101538.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378151639.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378195921.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378221439.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378254886.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738378283526.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Photo gallery: FHSU celebrates 2025 Lunar New Year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Victor E. Tiger turns 25: FHSU plans birthday bashes for beloved mascot

By JACOB KLAUDT K-State Research and Extension news service

Kansas State University has just released the 2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide, an annual publication that weed specialist Sarah Lancaster says “has a variety of information related to herbicides.”

While this year’s guide does not include many new active ingredients, readers can find information about latest products, such as IronGate, which is labeled for use in wheat.

“The active ingredients in Irongate are flucarbazone and pyroxsulam,” Lancaster said. “I've looked at it for control of downy brome and it did a nice job; some of the key weeds that this product will control are weedy bromes, mustards and Italian ryegrass.”

Beyond IronGate, Surtain stands as one of the more novel herbicides found in the 2025 guide, according to Lancaster, noting that it has performed well in research trials against other products like Resicore and Acuron.

“It's a BASF product that is a premix of pyroxasulfone (Zidua and Anthem) along with saflufenacil (Sharpen),” she said. “The thing that is different about Surtain is that the saflufenacil is encapsulated, and so, even though we typically think about Sharpen as having quite a bit of burndown activity, and with the encapsulation, it doesn't.”

Additionally, producers growing glufosinate tolerant soybeans might consider using the newly added herbicide Zalo – an AMVAC product that is a premix of glufosinate and quazolifop.

“Quazolifop is the active ingredient in Assure,” Lancaster said. “This soybean product is used for grass control. The glufosinate helps control broadleaf weeds as well.”

Liberty Ultra also remains on the list of just-released herbicides Lancaster has been paying attention to. In this case, Liberty Ultra holds the title of the first herbicide label to be compliant with the Endangered Species Act requirements.

“It is a purified version of Liberty 280 SL,” she said. “Use patterns are going to be really similar to Liberty 280 but the rates are bumped down just a little bit to account for the higher concentration of the active form of the glufosinate molecule.”

Other present-day products listed in the 2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide include:

· Inversa, Corteva’s encapsulated acetochlor product. Acetochlor is a Group 15 herbicide that growers use both pre- and post-emergence.

· Resicore REV. Lancaster said the key difference between Resicore REV and Resicore XL is that inert ingredients of Resicore REV has been modified to improve handling

The 2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide is accessible online at <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/2025-chemical-weed-control-for-field-crops-pastures-rangeland-and-noncropland_SRP1190">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/</a>.

Hard copies are also available in local extension offices in Kansas.

Brand names appearing in this article are for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement or disapproval by Kansas State University of any particular product.

Submitted by Stacy Campbell Cottonwood Extension District, Hays

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738086548192.jpeg" alt="Kansas Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACOB KLAUDT K-State Research and Extension news serviceKansas State University has just released the 2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide, an annual publication that weed specialist Sarah Lancaster says “has a variety of information related to herbicides.”While this year’s guide does not include many new active ingredients, readers can find information about latest products, such as IronGate, which is labeled for use in wheat.“The active ingredients in Irongate are flucarbazone and pyroxsulam,” Lancaster said. “I've looked at it for control of downy brome and it did a nice job; some of the key weeds that this product will control are weedy bromes, mustards and Italian ryegrass.”Beyond IronGate, Surtain stands as one of the more novel herbicides found in the 2025 guide, according to Lancaster, noting that it has performed well in research trials against other products like Resicore and Acuron.“It's a BASF product that is a premix of pyroxasulfone (Zidua and Anthem) along with saflufenacil (Sharpen),” she said. “The thing that is different about Surtain is that the saflufenacil is encapsulated, and so, even though we typically think about Sharpen as having quite a bit of burndown activity, and with the encapsulation, it doesn't.”Additionally, producers growing glufosinate tolerant soybeans might consider using the newly added herbicide Zalo – an AMVAC product that is a premix of glufosinate and quazolifop.“Quazolifop is the active ingredient in Assure,” Lancaster said. “This soybean product is used for grass control. The glufosinate helps control broadleaf weeds as well.”Liberty Ultra also remains on the list of just-released herbicides Lancaster has been paying attention to. In this case, Liberty Ultra holds the title of the first herbicide label to be compliant with the Endangered Species Act requirements.“It is a purified version of Liberty 280 SL,” she said. “Use patterns are going to be really similar to Liberty 280 but the rates are bumped down just a little bit to account for the higher concentration of the active form of the glufosinate molecule.”Other present-day products listed in the 2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide include:· Inversa, Corteva’s encapsulated acetochlor product. Acetochlor is a Group 15 herbicide that growers use both pre- and post-emergence.· Resicore REV. Lancaster said the key difference between Resicore REV and Resicore XL is that inert ingredients of Resicore REV has been modified to improve handlingThe 2025 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide is accessible online at <a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/item/2025-chemical-weed-control-for-field-crops-pastures-rangeland-and-noncropland_SRP1190">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/</a>.Hard copies are also available in local extension offices in Kansas.Brand names appearing in this article are for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement or disapproval by Kansas State University of any particular product.Submitted by Stacy Campbell Cottonwood Extension District, Hays

CAMPBELL: K-State weed specialist outlines products making first-time appearances

The 32nd annual Smoky Hills Pheasants Forever banquet will be held Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds in Hays. 

A social hour hour and games will begin at 4 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. and an auction at 7 p.m.

For tickets, call Shayne Wilson at 785-432-1904 or Nathan Legleiter at 785-639-1225.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737567513524.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted The 32nd annual Smoky Hills Pheasants Forever banquet will be held Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Ellis County Fairgrounds in Hays. A social hour hour and games will begin at 4 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. and an auction at 7 p.m.For tickets, call Shayne Wilson at 785-432-1904 or Nathan Legleiter at 785-639-1225.

Smoky Hills Pheasants Forever annual banquet scheduled for Feb. 22  

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

GREAT BEND - Hays High capped eight straight road games that started with the final game of 2024 as they traveled to Great Bend Friday.

GIRLS:&nbsp;#2 Hays 65, Great Bend 39 The Hays girls moved up six spots in the coaches' poll to #2 ahead of their game with the Panthers. A 34-1 first half run provided more than enough cushion for Hays to pull out a 65-39 victory.

It was a slow start for Hays. Great Bend hit four of their first five shots and led 9-2 midway through the first quarter. The Indians started getting to the free throw line and closing the gap. Hays closed the first quarter with a 16-0 run and then scored the first six points of the second quarter.

The 22-0 run put Hays up 24-9 two minutes into the second quarter. Great Bend hit one of two free throws before the Indians scored 12 straight to lead 36-10 three minutes later.

Hays led 42-15 at halftime and were never threatened in the second half.

Hays started the third quarter slow as well but Great Bend could only take four points off the Indian lead. Hays pushed their advantage to 30 by the end of the third quarter at 58-28.&nbsp;

The Indians grabbed a 65-39 victory after a continuous clock fourth quarter.

Hays(12-0, 3-0) has won fourteen consecutive WAC games. Great Bend(4-10) falls to 0-3 in league games. The 65 points and 34 rebounds for Hays was right at their season average.

Hays returns home on Tuesday. It is their first home game since December 13, 2024.

Jenna Schmeidler 15; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 10; Molly Martin 11; Kenlee Winter 7; Morgan Armbruster 3; Jaysa Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 6; Lynsi Kanak 5; Molly Buckles 6; Zoe Winter 2; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0.

BOYS:&nbsp;#4 Great Bend 64, Hays 52 An 11-0 run by Great Bend to open the second gave the Panthers a lead they would never give up as they beat the Indians 64-52.

The game featured eight lead changes and four ties. Seven of those lead changes and three ties all happened in the first half. The two teams traded blows through the first quarter. The Indians knocked down a trio of three pointers to boost themselves to a 12-8 lead through eight minutes.

Great Bend started the second quarter with a 8-2 run that gave the Panthers a 19-14 lead. Hays again started knocking down threes and made three more to lead 27-24 at halftime.

The big 11-0 run for Great Bend opened the third quarter. The Panthers led 35-27 before Hays scored their first points of the half with 4:11 remaining in the third. Hays never got any closer that five points rest of the way. The Indians trailed 43-37 with under a minute remaining in the quarter when Great Bend scored four quick points to increase their lead to ten points going the fourth.

The Panthers led by as many as 16 points at 56-40 before Hays tried to mount a comeback. The Indians got lead down to ten at 56-46 on a pair of technical free throws and had the ball but turned it over.

Hays got the lead down to nine inside of two minutes and eight inside a minute but couldn't get shots to drop to draw closer, falling 64-52.

Hays(7-6, 2-1) has four losses to state ranked teams this season. Great Bend(13-1, 3-0) takes over the WAC lead. The Panthers have won ten straight.

Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 10; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindenmeyer 2; Trey Oakley 5; Tiger Johnson 17; Izaac Fox 1; Dawson Ruder 17.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostGREAT BEND - Hays High capped eight straight road games that started with the final game of 2024 as they traveled to Great Bend Friday.GIRLS:&nbsp;#2 Hays 65, Great Bend 39 The Hays girls moved up six spots in the coaches' poll to #2 ahead of their game with the Panthers. A 34-1 first half run provided more than enough cushion for Hays to pull out a 65-39 victory.It was a slow start for Hays. Great Bend hit four of their first five shots and led 9-2 midway through the first quarter. The Indians started getting to the free throw line and closing the gap. Hays closed the first quarter with a 16-0 run and then scored the first six points of the second quarter.The 22-0 run put Hays up 24-9 two minutes into the second quarter. Great Bend hit one of two free throws before the Indians scored 12 straight to lead 36-10 three minutes later.Hays led 42-15 at halftime and were never threatened in the second half.Highlights<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/2023198228&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/hays-high-wbkb-highlights-v-4" title="Hays High WBKB Highlights v Great Bend Jan 31 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Highlights v Great Bend Jan 31 2025</a></div></div>Hays started the third quarter slow as well but Great Bend could only take four points off the Indian lead. Hays pushed their advantage to 30 by the end of the third quarter at 58-28.&nbsp;The Indians grabbed a 65-39 victory after a continuous clock fourth quarter.Coach Len Melvin<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/2023197956&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/hays-high-wbkb-coach-post-v-1" title="Hays High WBKB Coach Post v Great Bend Jan 31 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High WBKB Coach Post v Great Bend Jan 31 2025</a></div></div>Hays(12-0, 3-0) has won fourteen consecutive WAC games. Great Bend(4-10) falls to 0-3 in league games. The 65 points and 34 rebounds for Hays was right at their season average.Hays returns home on Tuesday. It is their first home game since December 13, 2024.Jenna Schmeidler 15; Annie Humphrey 0; Katie Linenberger 10; Molly Martin 11; Kenlee Winter 7; Morgan Armbruster 3; Jaysa Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 6; Lynsi Kanak 5; Molly Buckles 6; Zoe Winter 2; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0.BOYS:&nbsp;#4 Great Bend 64, Hays 52 An 11-0 run by Great Bend to open the second gave the Panthers a lead they would never give up as they beat the Indians 64-52.The game featured eight lead changes and four ties. Seven of those lead changes and three ties all happened in the first half. The two teams traded blows through the first quarter. The Indians knocked down a trio of three pointers to boost themselves to a 12-8 lead through eight minutes.Great Bend started the second quarter with a 8-2 run that gave the Panthers a 19-14 lead. Hays again started knocking down threes and made three more to lead 27-24 at halftime.Highlights<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/2023198420&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/hays-high-mbkb-highlights-v-5" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Great Bend Jan 31 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Great Bend Jan 31 2025</a></div></div>The big 11-0 run for Great Bend opened the third quarter. The Panthers led 35-27 before Hays scored their first points of the half with 4:11 remaining in the third. Hays never got any closer that five points rest of the way. The Indians trailed 43-37 with under a minute remaining in the quarter when Great Bend scored four quick points to increase their lead to ten points going the fourth.The Panthers led by as many as 16 points at 56-40 before Hays tried to mount a comeback. The Indians got lead down to ten at 56-46 on a pair of technical free throws and had the ball but turned it over.Hays got the lead down to nine inside of two minutes and eight inside a minute but couldn't get shots to drop to draw closer, falling 64-52.Sean Dreiling<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/2023198328&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/hays-high-mbkb-coach-post-v-1" title="Hays High MBKB Coach Post v Great Bend Jan 31 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Coach Post v Great Bend Jan 31 2025</a></div></div>Hays(7-6, 2-1) has four losses to state ranked teams this season. Great Bend(13-1, 3-0) takes over the WAC lead. The Panthers have won ten straight.Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 10; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindenmeyer 2; Trey Oakley 5; Tiger Johnson 17; Izaac Fox 1; Dawson Ruder 17.

🏀 Hays girls remain unblemished; boys fall to Great Bend

Axtell 48, Nebraska City Lourdes, Neb. 38

Lafayette (St. Joseph), Mo. 73, Atchison 60

GIRLS PREP BASKETBALL=Abilene 40, Chapman 37Axtell 48, Nebraska City Lourdes, Neb. 38Berean Academy 39, Elyria Christian 32Centralia 68, Hanover 61Clay Center 43, Concordia 31Clifton-Clyde 31, Onaga 17Frontenac 43, Columbus 34Goessel 35, Sedgwick 33Golden Plains 33, Logan 27Hays 65, Great Bend 39Hesston 49, Buhler 42Hillsboro 32, Minneapolis 20Humboldt 62, Erie 27KC Piper 68, Leavenworth 50Kingman 52, Douglass 26Larned 40, Hays-TMP-Marian 37Liberal 65, Woodward, Okla. 55Marion 29, Council Grove 24Norton 33, Ellis 31Phillipsburg 40, Smith Center 34Riley County 51, Royal Valley 33Riverton 61, Baxter Springs 12Scott City 41, Hugoton 17Silver Lake 76, Sabetha 30Southwestern Hts. 70, Sublette 12Tonganoxie 56, KC Turner 18Wabaunsee 64, Rural Vista 37Wallace County 50, Oberlin-Decatur 25Wamego 54, Rock Creek 46Washington County 48, Frankfort 47Wichita County 59, Deerfield 28Capital City Classic=Consolation Semifinal=Blue Valley 56, Highland Park 41Semifinal=Shawnee Heights 65, Topeka West 32Washburn Rural 75, Lawrence 48El Dorado Classic=Consolation Semifinal=Goddard 47, El Dorado 32Mill Valley 58, Augusta 37Semifinal=Gardner-Edgerton 25, Topeka Hayden 24Maize South 58, Kapaun Mount Carmel 42Glacier's Edge Invitational=Consolation Semifinal=Topeka 84, Wichita Northwest 45Wichita South 47, Emporia 28Semifinal=Derby 52, Wichita Heights 46Topeka Seaman 70, SM South 45Haven Classic=Consolation Semifinal=Cheney 45, Garden Plain 33Semifinal=Halstead 38, Valley Center 32Jefferson County North Invitational=Consolation Semifinal=Atchison 50, Valley Falls 32Lyon County League Tournament=Semifinal=Olpe 39, Waverly 38Mid-America Classic=Consolation Semifinal=Wichita Southeast 57, Andover Central 49Semifinal=Manhattan 48, McPherson 38Olathe South 49, Hutchinson 19Mulvane Classic=Consolation Semifinal=Wichita Campus 56, Wichita North 39Winfield 33, Rose Hill 29SPIAA League Tournament=Seventh Place=South Central 34, Ashland 23BOYS PREP BASKETBALL=Abilene 79, Chapman 43Berean Academy 50, Elyria Christian 48Clifton-Clyde 47, Onaga 22Concordia 56, Clay Center 54Emporia 79, Wichita Independent 15Erie 27, Humboldt 23Fredonia 72, Eureka 34Great Bend 64, Hays 52Hanover 65, Centralia 56Hugoton 59, Scott City 56KC Piper 76, Leavenworth 26Lafayette (St. Joseph), Mo. 73, Atchison 60Lincoln 62, Natoma 26Logan 73, Golden Plains 23Lyons 50, Ellinwood 35Nemaha Central 52, Rossville 51Norton 35, Ellis 28Oberlin-Decatur 53, Wallace County 47Oswego 65, Marmaton Valley 54Perry-Lecompton 56, Hiawatha 49Phillipsburg 67, Smith Center 55Pittsburg St Mary's-Colgan 43, Girard 25Riley County 61, Royal Valley 56Riverton 63, Baxter Springs 48Rock Creek 57, Wamego 37Rockhurst, Mo. 68, SM East 52Satanta 57, Pawnee Heights 47Sedgwick 50, Goessel 16Shawnee Heights 66, Topeka West 48Silver Lake 60, Sabetha 58, OTSouthwestern Hts. 64, Sublette 59St Marys 62, Jefferson West 33Topeka Seaman 55, De Soto 49Valley Heights 62, Republic County 56Wabaunsee 49, Rural Vista 37Weskan 77, Rolla 32Woodward, Okla. 83, Liberal 52Lyon County League Tournament=Semifinal=Burlingame 47, Lebo 38SPIAA League Tournament=Semifinal=

🏀 Friday's high school basketball scores

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

HAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs renewed an old MSAA rivalry Friday
night inside Al Billinger Fieldhouse when they split a doubleheader with the Larned
Indians. It was the TMP boys and the Indian girls picking up victories. 

GIRLS: Larned 40, TMP 37 The Larned Indians outscored the TMP girls by eight to open
the third quarter on their way to a 40-37 win over the Monarchs Friday night.

The two teams played to an early pair of ties before Larned took
a 7-6 lead into the first quarter break.

Larned (7-5) outscored the Monarchs 8-4 in the second quarter
and led 15-10 at halftime.

Larned built its largest lead in the third quarter, at
20-13, but the Monarchs (7-6) eventually tied the game at 23 on a Gracyn
Schippers three-point play to close out the third quarter.

The Indians led by as many as six in the fourth quarter on their
way to a 40-37 victory.

Schippers tied her career-high with 13 points, and Brooke
Koenigsman added 11 points for the Monarchs. 

BOYS: TMP 46, Larned 33 The TMP boys led by as many as 10 in the first half and 17
in the second half on their way to a 46-33 victory.

There were a pair of ties and lead changes early, and after
leading 9-8 at the end of the first quarter, TMP (6-7) outscored Larned (5-7)
14-9 in the second quarter for a 23-15 lead at halftime. A lead they never
surrendered. 

The Monarchs opened the third quarter scoring eight straight
points on three-pointers from Will Eck and Ty Schmeidler and a layup by Jacob
Seib that gave TMP the 31-17 a little more than a minute gone in the third
quarter. 

The Indians would never go away, though, trailing by double figures.
They outscore the Monarchs 14-2 over the next six minutes of gameplay to close
out the third quarter and open the fourth quarter. 

They had closed within four at 33-244 with five minutes left
in the game.

The Monarchs Ty Schmeidler knocked down a three-pointer, scoring
a 13-0 TMP run for a 46-29 lead. In the final minutes, four scored four points,
making it 46-33 TMP. 

Schmeidler finished with 13 points, and Seib scored 11.

TMP will host Trego Community on Tuesday. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostHAYS – The TMP-Marian Monarchs renewed an old MSAA rivalry Friday
night inside Al Billinger Fieldhouse when they split a doubleheader with the Larned
Indians. It was the TMP boys and the Indian girls picking up victories. GIRLS: Larned 40, TMP 37 The Larned Indians outscored the TMP girls by eight to open
the third quarter on their way to a 40-37 win over the Monarchs Friday night.<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/2023201664&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/john-linn-postgame-interview-vs-larned-jan-31st-25" title="John Linn Postgame Interview Vs Larned (Jan 31st 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">John Linn Postgame Interview Vs Larned (Jan 31st 25)</a></div></div>The two teams played to an early pair of ties before Larned took
a 7-6 lead into the first quarter break.Larned (7-5) outscored the Monarchs 8-4 in the second quarter
and led 15-10 at halftime.Larned built its largest lead in the third quarter, at
20-13, but the Monarchs (7-6) eventually tied the game at 23 on a Gracyn
Schippers three-point play to close out the third quarter.The Indians led by as many as six in the fourth quarter on their
way to a 40-37 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/2023201136&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/tmp-wbkb-highlights-vs-larned-jan-31st-25" title="TMP WBKB Highlights Vs Larned (Jan 31st 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">TMP WBKB Highlights Vs Larned (Jan 31st 25)</a></div></div>Schippers tied her career-high with 13 points, and Brooke
Koenigsman added 11 points for the Monarchs. BOYS: TMP 46, Larned 33 The TMP boys led by as many as 10 in the first half and 17
in the second half on their way to a 46-33 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/2023201520&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/bill-meagher-postgame-interview-vs-larned-jan-31st-25" title="Bill Meagher Postgame Interview Vs Larned (Jan 31st 25)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Bill Meagher Postgame Interview Vs Larned (Jan 31st 25)</a></div></div>There were a pair of ties and lead changes early, and after
leading 9-8 at the end of the first quarter, TMP (6-7) outscored Larned (5-7)
14-9 in the second quarter for a 23-15 lead at halftime. A lead they never
surrendered. The Monarchs opened the third quarter scoring eight straight
points on three-pointers from Will Eck and Ty Schmeidler and a layup by Jacob
Seib that gave TMP the 31-17 a little more than a minute gone in the third
quarter. <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/2023198420&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/hays-high-mbkb-highlights-v-5" title="Hays High MBKB Highlights v Great Bend Jan 31 2025" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Hays High MBKB Highlights v Great Bend Jan 31 2025</a></div></div>The Indians would never go away, though, trailing by double figures.
They outscore the Monarchs 14-2 over the next six minutes of gameplay to close
out the third quarter and open the fourth quarter. They had closed within four at 33-244 with five minutes left
in the game.The Monarchs Ty Schmeidler knocked down a three-pointer, scoring
a 13-0 TMP run for a 46-29 lead. In the final minutes, four scored four points,
making it 46-33 TMP. Schmeidler finished with 13 points, and Seib scored 11.TMP will host Trego Community on Tuesday.

🏀 Monarchs split non-league matchup with Larned

GOVE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday morning in Grainfield, Kansas.

At around 7:45 a.m., the Gove County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to disturbance call at 517 W. 3rd&nbsp;Street in Grainfield, according to a media release. When the deputy arrived, he entered the residence to find two men in a heated argument.

The deputy determined that Ty Kaiser, 30, had hit his 63-year-old male relative in the face. The deputy gave commands for Kaiser to get down. He initially complied, but then stood back up and attempted to leave the scene, ignoring the deputy. The deputy deployed a Taser, which was ineffective, and angered Kaiser further. Kaiser then charged toward the deputy, hitting him in the head, face, and body. The deputy pulled out his firearm, and fired one round striking Kaiser.

The deputy attempted life-saving measures until EMS arrived and transported Kaiser to Gove County Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. 

The deputy and relative were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The deputy was released from the hospital Friday afternoon, after evaluation and is recovering from his injuries. The 63-year-old was transferred to the hospital in Hays for further treatment.

This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.

When this investigation concludes, case findings will be presented to the Gove County Attorney.&nbsp; Ty Kaiser has three previous drug convictions in Wallace County and a conviction for&nbsp;Arranging sale/purchase using communication facility in Russell County in 2016, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

GOVE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting in Gove County.

The incident, that also sent a Gove County sheriff's deputy to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, occurred just before 8a.m. in Grainfield, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

GOVE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday morning in Grainfield, Kansas.At around 7:45 a.m., the Gove County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to disturbance call at 517 W. 3rd&nbsp;Street in Grainfield, according to a media release. When the deputy arrived, he entered the residence to find two men in a heated argument.The deputy determined that Ty Kaiser, 30, had hit his 63-year-old male relative in the face. The deputy gave commands for Kaiser to get down. He initially complied, but then stood back up and attempted to leave the scene, ignoring the deputy. The deputy deployed a Taser, which was ineffective, and angered Kaiser further. Kaiser then charged toward the deputy, hitting him in the head, face, and body. The deputy pulled out his firearm, and fired one round striking Kaiser.The deputy attempted life-saving measures until EMS arrived and transported Kaiser to Gove County Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. The deputy and relative were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The deputy was released from the hospital Friday afternoon, after evaluation and is recovering from his injuries. The 63-year-old was transferred to the hospital in Hays for further treatment.This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature, and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.When this investigation concludes, case findings will be presented to the Gove County Attorney.&nbsp; Ty Kaiser has three previous drug convictions in Wallace County and a conviction for&nbsp;Arranging sale/purchase using communication facility in Russell County in 2016, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-------------GOVE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting in Gove County.The incident, that also sent a Gove County sheriff's deputy to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, occurred just before 8a.m. in Grainfield, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Police ID man who died in NW Kansas officer-involved shooting 

Hays High at Great Bend Friday, Jan. 31st – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Great Bend, Kan. - Great Bend High School

Radio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2082450">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>

Hays High is on the road for a eighth consecutive game as they travel to Great Bend. The Indians resume Western Athletic Conference play.

The #2 Hays High(12-0, 2-0) girls moved up six spots in the 5A rankings after a championship in the Colby Orange &amp; Black Classic. Great Bend(4-9, 0-2) placed seventh in the Salina Invitational Tournament and lost to TMP in Hays on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Hays(7-5, 2-0) boys takes on #4 Great Bend(12-1, 2-0). Three of the five Hays losses are to state ranked 6A teams. The Indians finished runner-up in the Colby Orange &amp; Black last Saturday. Great Bend moved up a spot in the rankings after winning the Salina Invitational Tournament last week. The Panthers beat TMP in Hays on Tuesday.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699014932.jpeg" alt="HHS Listen Live" />
 <figcaption>HHS Listen Live</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High at Great Bend Friday, Jan. 31st – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Great Bend, Kan. - Great Bend High SchoolRadio: KFIX (96.9)&nbsp;<a href="https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cwa/KFIX">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video: Hays High Sports Network <a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/2082450">CLICK HERE TO WATCH $$</a>Hays High is on the road for a eighth consecutive game as they travel to Great Bend. The Indians resume Western Athletic Conference play.The #2 Hays High(12-0, 2-0) girls moved up six spots in the 5A rankings after a championship in the Colby Orange &amp; Black Classic. Great Bend(4-9, 0-2) placed seventh in the Salina Invitational Tournament and lost to TMP in Hays on Tuesday.&nbsp;The Hays(7-5, 2-0) boys takes on #4 Great Bend(12-1, 2-0). Three of the five Hays losses are to state ranked 6A teams. The Indians finished runner-up in the Colby Orange &amp; Black last Saturday. Great Bend moved up a spot in the rankings after winning the Salina Invitational Tournament last week. The Panthers beat TMP in Hays on Tuesday.Tip-off for the girls game is 6:oo p.m. on the Hays High Sports Network with the boys game to follow.&nbsp;

🏀🎥 Hays High on the road to Great Bend

TMP-Marian&nbsp;vs Larned FRiday, Jan. 31 – 6:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Al Billinger Fieldhouse

Radio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1989375">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Monarchs renew an old rivalry on Friday night when the welcome to town the Larned Indians.

The Monarchs and Indians were both members of the Mid-State Activities Association League for the better part of 28 years and will meet on the hardwood for the first time since 2014 tonight.&nbsp;

The TMP girls have won three straight and the boys have won three of their last five games.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575411582384.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-Marian&nbsp;vs Larned FRiday, Jan. 31 – 6:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. - Al Billinger FieldhouseRadio: KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN </a>Video: TMP-Marian Sports Network&nbsp;<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/1989375">CLICK HERE TO WATCH
($)</a>The TMP-Marian Monarchs renew an old rivalry on Friday night when the welcome to town the Larned Indians.The Monarchs and Indians were both members of the Mid-State Activities Association League for the better part of 28 years and will meet on the hardwood for the first time since 2014 tonight.&nbsp;The TMP girls have won three straight and the boys have won three of their last five games.&nbsp;The girls' game will tip off at 6&nbsp;p.m. from Hays, and the boys will follow on the Monarchs Sports Network.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian renews rivalry with Larned

Leon Wolf, 89, Hays, died Thursday, January 30, 2025 at his
home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born July 5, 1935 in Schoenchen, the son of Anthony
and Amelia (Dechant) Wolf.&nbsp; In 1956, he
graduated from Hays High School and he graduated from Fort Hays State
University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Arts.&nbsp; On June 18, 1960, he was united in marriage
to Mary Louise Romey at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, and they
celebrated 60 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on February 6,
2021.&nbsp; He worked for Midwest Energy as a
warehouse manager, and following his retirement, was a bus driver for USD 489
for many years.&nbsp; Leon loved his family
and treasured his grandchildren and great grandchildren.&nbsp; He was a man of strong faith, an usher at St.
Joseph Catholic Church, and was actively involved with the St. Joseph Third
Degree Knights of Columbus Council #1325 and the Bishop Cunningham Fourth
Degree Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; He was a
semi-pro bowler, a skilled carpenter, and a master gardener with a yard filled
with beautiful flowers.

Survivors include his four daughters, Kim Campbell of Hays,
Pam Gaschler and husband Terry of Hays, Sherri Mong and husband Jerry of Las
Vegas, NV, and Janelle Williams and husband Terry of Russell, three sisters,
Kathy Wolf and Geri Lynde, both of Wichita, and Mildred Lusk of Huntsville, AL,
a sister-in-law, Vicki Weber of Ellis, 12 grandchildren, Ashley Lang, Alexis
Campbell, Allison Campbell, Adam Campbell, Nicki Younger, Natalie Reuter, Taryn
Graham, Sierra Diehl, Chelsea Myers, Hailey Montgomery, Sagan Schultz, and
Tyler Williams, 10 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary, two
brothers, Leven and Allen Wolf, and three sisters, Vera Mae Streeter, Loraine
Wolf, and Ester Wolf.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.Burial will follow in St.
Anthony Cemetery in Schoenchen.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Monday and from 9:00 am
until 9:45 on Tuesday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.The Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus will
stand honor guard from 5:30 pm until 6:30, a vigil service will be at 6:30 pm, and
a combined third and fourth degree Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 7:00,
all at the funeral home.

Memorials are
suggested to AHSGR (American Historical Society of Germans from Russia), St.
Joseph Food Pantry, or to A Different Mindset Association, a local association
providing services and support for caregivers and those living with dementia
and Alzheimer’s.Condolences and
memories of Leon may be left for his family 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738351556436.jpeg" alt="Leon Wolf" />
 <figcaption>Leon Wolf</figcaption>
 </figure>Leon Wolf, 89, Hays, died Thursday, January 30, 2025 at his
home, surrounded by his loving family.He was born July 5, 1935 in Schoenchen, the son of Anthony
and Amelia (Dechant) Wolf.&nbsp; In 1956, he
graduated from Hays High School and he graduated from Fort Hays State
University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Arts.&nbsp; On June 18, 1960, he was united in marriage
to Mary Louise Romey at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, and they
celebrated 60 years of marriage before she preceded him in death on February 6,
2021.&nbsp; He worked for Midwest Energy as a
warehouse manager, and following his retirement, was a bus driver for USD 489
for many years.&nbsp; Leon loved his family
and treasured his grandchildren and great grandchildren.&nbsp; He was a man of strong faith, an usher at St.
Joseph Catholic Church, and was actively involved with the St. Joseph Third
Degree Knights of Columbus Council #1325 and the Bishop Cunningham Fourth
Degree Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; He was a
semi-pro bowler, a skilled carpenter, and a master gardener with a yard filled
with beautiful flowers.Survivors include his four daughters, Kim Campbell of Hays,
Pam Gaschler and husband Terry of Hays, Sherri Mong and husband Jerry of Las
Vegas, NV, and Janelle Williams and husband Terry of Russell, three sisters,
Kathy Wolf and Geri Lynde, both of Wichita, and Mildred Lusk of Huntsville, AL,
a sister-in-law, Vicki Weber of Ellis, 12 grandchildren, Ashley Lang, Alexis
Campbell, Allison Campbell, Adam Campbell, Nicki Younger, Natalie Reuter, Taryn
Graham, Sierra Diehl, Chelsea Myers, Hailey Montgomery, Sagan Schultz, and
Tyler Williams, 10 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary, two
brothers, Leven and Allen Wolf, and three sisters, Vera Mae Streeter, Loraine
Wolf, and Ester Wolf.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Fred Gatschet
officiating.Burial will follow in St.
Anthony Cemetery in Schoenchen.Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Monday and from 9:00 am
until 9:45 on Tuesday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.The Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus will
stand honor guard from 5:30 pm until 6:30, a vigil service will be at 6:30 pm, and
a combined third and fourth degree Knights of Columbus rosary will be at 7:00,
all at the funeral home.Memorials are
suggested to AHSGR (American Historical Society of Germans from Russia), St.
Joseph Food Pantry, or to A Different Mindset Association, a local association
providing services and support for caregivers and those living with dementia
and Alzheimer’s.Condolences and
memories of Leon may be left for his family

Leon Wolf

Jeff Leiker discusses Kansas history in honor of Kansas Day with Adam Conkey of Historic Fort Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: State of Kansas History 164 Years" 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=9dsdm-17d8679-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>Jeff Leiker discusses Kansas history in honor of Kansas Day with Adam Conkey of Historic Fort Hays on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

Podcast: Kansas history in celebration on Kansas Day

Friday, January 31
 KKQY: Wheatland-Grinnell
MWBKB at Ness City, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB at Great Bend, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Larned, 5:40pm

Saturday, February 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB at Central Missouri, 12:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at Baylor, 1:30pm

Friday, January 31
 KKQY: Wheatland-Grinnell
MWBKB at Ness City, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB at Great Bend, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB vs. Larned, 5:40pmSaturday, February 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WMBKB at Central Missouri, 12:35pm
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at Baylor, 1:30pmSunday, February 2

 none

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Independent pharmacies across Kansas will close on Wednesday, Feb.5, for a day of advocacy to raise awareness of what they call unfair business practices by pharmacy benefit managers.

Sloane Freeman, president of the Kansas Pharmacists Association, said the "Close for a Cause" event is meant to show customers what life would be like without independent pharmacies in Kansas.

Pharmacists and their employees will also gather in Topeka that day to lobby for legislation the association is introducing to level the playing field for independent pharmacies.

As of Wednesday, Jan. 26, 96 pharmacies in 55 counties have pledged to participate in "Close for a Cause."

Freeman is an owner of a group of pharmacies in Kansas, one of which is in Hill City.

The benefit pharmacy manager system arose in the 1990s to control insurance companies' costs.

However, since then, the benefit pharmacy managers have become part of vertical integration that also includes the ownership of insurance companies and pharmacies.

Three pharmacy benefit managers control about 85% of the market and rank in the top 20 companies in the U.S. They include Cigna, United Healthcare and CVS/Caremark.

"They are charging your insurance plan one cost, reimbursing the pharmacy another cost and then they're keeping everything in the middle," Freeman said.

Freeman said these companies require insured people to use the benefits manager's pharmacies or offer significant discounts as incentives.

Fred Schertz, pharmacist with Midwest Family Health of Russell, will be participating in lobbying efforts in Topeka on Feb. 5. Midwest Family Health will be closed Wednesday.

"[Mail-order pharmacies] not only drive revenue out of the state of Kansas and out of our local economy," he said, "but also it is a patient care thing. Patients are forced to fill out of state."

He said he sees patients who must fill prescriptions out of town or by mail.

"The patients that it really hurts are the ones who don't have the modes of transportation where they can make it to Hays every day to pick up medication,"&nbsp;Schertz said.

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2020/20_0317.htm">Many scholarly articles have been written on the importance of community pharmacies in local health outcomes, including a&nbsp;July 23, 2020, article shared by the Centers for Disease Control that discusses the role of local pharmacies in dealing with COVID-19.</a>&nbsp;It also touched on chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.

The pharmacy benefit managers reimburse their pharmacies at a much higher rate than independent pharmacies, Freeman said.

She said independent pharmacies might be reimbursed 1 cent for the drug and $1 for filling the prescription, but the National Community Pharmacy of Association estimates it costs about $13.85 per prescription for an independent pharmacy to fill a prescription and break even.

That includes overhead costs like the container, label, lights and employees, but that doesn't include the cost of the drug.

"When we're not being paid for the drug or any of our employees, we're operating in the red," Freeman said.

Ten Kansas pharmacies closed within the last year, and Freeman said more will close if reforms are not implemented soon.

Two pharmacies in Russell recently merged to stay open.

"In certain pharmacies, up to one in every three prescriptions, they're getting paid below cost,"&nbsp;Schertz said. "That's not taking into account overhead to run it."

There is an appeal system for reimbursements, but appeals are always denied, Freeman said.

"The [pharmacy benefits managers] don't have to play by any rules because there are no rules," Freeman said.

Freeman said the most important aspect of this debate is patient access to medications in a timely manner.

Independent pharmacies deliver to people who can't leave their homes. Pharmacists are available to answer questions in person and provide other special services, such as bubble packs.&nbsp;

Freeman said her pharmacies have even gone to people's homes to give flu shots.

"You won't find that in a mail-order pharmacy or in a chain pharmacy that is 60 to 75 miles away," she said.

Mail-order and chain pharmacies won't be able to handle the volume if more independent pharmacies close, Freeman said.

An independent pharmacy in Garden City closed, and the remaining pharmacies are swamped. Freeman said people are waiting up to five days to get prescriptions filled.

Mail service in rural Kansas is a barrier for patients who are being required to use mail-order pharmacies.&nbsp;Schertz said patients are seeing delays in receiving their medications.

"If something gets hung up half a state away with critical medications, it's not just a package from Amazon. It's lifesaving medication that can be held up," he said.

Climate control is also a concern. Temperature differences can harm medication efficacy, so pharmacies must maintain their medications at consistent temperatures.&nbsp;

Medication that comes through the mail may be sitting in a mail van or on a dock for hours to days in more than 100-degree temperatures or temperatures well below freezing, Freeman said.

The&nbsp;Kansas Pharmacists Association's bill would set a floor for the reimbursement rate to all pharamcies, Freeman said.

Paul Schiferl, pharmacist in Colby, said he did not think the bill would increase prices for consumers.

"We think that the pharmacies should be trued up," he said. ... "What we believe is that it will put everyone to the middle on a fair playing field."

He added, "You can't make a pharmacy run on a $2 dispensing fee."

The bill also encourages transparency. Employers and the state could see where their money goes for drug costs.

It would also reform the audit system. Freeman said the pharmacy benefit managers perform what she called "predatory audits" of independent pharmacies.

"It's common sense things," Freeman said. "We just want to level the playing field a little bit more instead of the three [pharmacy benefits managers] running us over and trying to close us."

Freeman said she and the other pharmacists did not want to close even for one day, but they need Kansans to understand the importance of this issue.

"Patients need to understand they may not have a pharmacy," she said. "Until people understand and feel the issue on themselves, they aren't going to fully understand what the impact could be.

"I can sit here and say until I'm blue in the face, 'If you don't have a pharmacy, you're not going to be able to get your medications.' But until you actually live in that world for a day, it's hard to comprehend."

Schiferl said he also did not want to close. He wants to serve his patients.

"We also want to have this visual representation. We believe our patients want us in their communities," he said, "and we're hoping that when they can see what this would be like if we were closed all of the time, they will want to support this and reach out to their legislators as well and [tell them] how important it is to have a community pharmacy in their town."

The pharmacies encourage their patients to contact local legislators to support the legislation. The independent pharmacies are also organizing letter-writing campaigns and will be taking letters written by patients to Topeka on Feb. 5

"Having the patient voice is what we really hope to have to help the legislators understand more," Freeman said.

Counties that will have pharmacies closed for "Closing for a Cause" on Feb. 5. Anderson Barber Chase Chautauqua Clay Coffey Decatur Dickinson Doniphan Edwards Elk Ellsworth Gove Graham Grant Gray Greenwood Harper Hodgeman Jewell Kingman Kiowa Lane Pawnee Lincoln Logan Marion Meade Mitchell Montgomery Morris Nemaha Ness Norton Osage Ottawa Pawnee Phillips Pottawatomie Rawlins Republic Rice Rooks Rush Russell Sheridan Smith Stafford Stanton Trego Washington Wichita Woodson

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738267698272.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIndependent pharmacies across Kansas will close on Wednesday, Feb.5, for a day of advocacy to raise awareness of what they call unfair business practices by pharmacy benefit managers.Sloane Freeman, president of the Kansas Pharmacists Association, said the "Close for a Cause" event is meant to show customers what life would be like without independent pharmacies in Kansas.Pharmacists and their employees will also gather in Topeka that day to lobby for legislation the association is introducing to level the playing field for independent pharmacies.As of Wednesday, Jan. 26, 96 pharmacies in 55 counties have pledged to participate in "Close for a Cause."Freeman is an owner of a group of pharmacies in Kansas, one of which is in Hill City.The benefit pharmacy manager system arose in the 1990s to control insurance companies' costs.However, since then, the benefit pharmacy managers have become part of vertical integration that also includes the ownership of insurance companies and pharmacies.Three pharmacy benefit managers control about 85% of the market and rank in the top 20 companies in the U.S. They include Cigna, United Healthcare and CVS/Caremark."They are charging your insurance plan one cost, reimbursing the pharmacy another cost and then they're keeping everything in the middle," Freeman said.Freeman said these companies require insured people to use the benefits manager's pharmacies or offer significant discounts as incentives.Fred Schertz, pharmacist with Midwest Family Health of Russell, will be participating in lobbying efforts in Topeka on Feb. 5. Midwest Family Health will be closed Wednesday."[Mail-order pharmacies] not only drive revenue out of the state of Kansas and out of our local economy," he said, "but also it is a patient care thing. Patients are forced to fill out of state."He said he sees patients who must fill prescriptions out of town or by mail."The patients that it really hurts are the ones who don't have the modes of transportation where they can make it to Hays every day to pick up medication,"&nbsp;Schertz said.<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2020/20_0317.htm">Many scholarly articles have been written on the importance of community pharmacies in local health outcomes, including a&nbsp;July 23, 2020, article shared by the Centers for Disease Control that discusses the role of local pharmacies in dealing with COVID-19.</a>&nbsp;It also touched on chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.The pharmacy benefit managers reimburse their pharmacies at a much higher rate than independent pharmacies, Freeman said.She said independent pharmacies might be reimbursed 1 cent for the drug and $1 for filling the prescription, but the National Community Pharmacy of Association estimates it costs about $13.85 per prescription for an independent pharmacy to fill a prescription and break even.That includes overhead costs like the container, label, lights and employees, but that doesn't include the cost of the drug."When we're not being paid for the drug or any of our employees, we're operating in the red," Freeman said.Ten Kansas pharmacies closed within the last year, and Freeman said more will close if reforms are not implemented soon.Two pharmacies in Russell recently merged to stay open."In certain pharmacies, up to one in every three prescriptions, they're getting paid below cost,"&nbsp;Schertz said. "That's not taking into account overhead to run it."There is an appeal system for reimbursements, but appeals are always denied, Freeman said."The [pharmacy benefits managers] don't have to play by any rules because there are no rules," Freeman said.Freeman said the most important aspect of this debate is patient access to medications in a timely manner.Independent pharmacies deliver to people who can't leave their homes. Pharmacists are available to answer questions in person and provide other special services, such as bubble packs.&nbsp;Freeman said her pharmacies have even gone to people's homes to give flu shots."You won't find that in a mail-order pharmacy or in a chain pharmacy that is 60 to 75 miles away," she said.Mail-order and chain pharmacies won't be able to handle the volume if more independent pharmacies close, Freeman said.An independent pharmacy in Garden City closed, and the remaining pharmacies are swamped. Freeman said people are waiting up to five days to get prescriptions filled.Mail service in rural Kansas is a barrier for patients who are being required to use mail-order pharmacies.&nbsp;Schertz said patients are seeing delays in receiving their medications."If something gets hung up half a state away with critical medications, it's not just a package from Amazon. It's lifesaving medication that can be held up," he said.Climate control is also a concern. Temperature differences can harm medication efficacy, so pharmacies must maintain their medications at consistent temperatures.&nbsp;Medication that comes through the mail may be sitting in a mail van or on a dock for hours to days in more than 100-degree temperatures or temperatures well below freezing, Freeman said.<h2>The bill</h2>The&nbsp;Kansas Pharmacists Association's bill would set a floor for the reimbursement rate to all pharamcies, Freeman said.Paul Schiferl, pharmacist in Colby, said he did not think the bill would increase prices for consumers."We think that the pharmacies should be trued up," he said. ... "What we believe is that it will put everyone to the middle on a fair playing field."He added, "You can't make a pharmacy run on a $2 dispensing fee."The bill also encourages transparency. Employers and the state could see where their money goes for drug costs.It would also reform the audit system. Freeman said the pharmacy benefit managers perform what she called "predatory audits" of independent pharmacies."It's common sense things," Freeman said. "We just want to level the playing field a little bit more instead of the three [pharmacy benefits managers] running us over and trying to close us."Freeman said she and the other pharmacists did not want to close even for one day, but they need Kansans to understand the importance of this issue."Patients need to understand they may not have a pharmacy," she said. "Until people understand and feel the issue on themselves, they aren't going to fully understand what the impact could be."I can sit here and say until I'm blue in the face, 'If you don't have a pharmacy, you're not going to be able to get your medications.' But until you actually live in that world for a day, it's hard to comprehend."Schiferl said he also did not want to close. He wants to serve his patients."We also want to have this visual representation. We believe our patients want us in their communities," he said, "and we're hoping that when they can see what this would be like if we were closed all of the time, they will want to support this and reach out to their legislators as well and [tell them] how important it is to have a community pharmacy in their town."The pharmacies encourage their patients to contact local legislators to support the legislation. The independent pharmacies are also organizing letter-writing campaigns and will be taking letters written by patients to Topeka on Feb. 5"Having the patient voice is what we really hope to have to help the legislators understand more," Freeman said.Counties that will have pharmacies closed for "Closing for a Cause" on Feb. 5. Anderson Barber Chase Chautauqua Clay Coffey Decatur Dickinson Doniphan Edwards Elk Ellsworth Gove Graham Grant Gray Greenwood Harper Hodgeman Jewell Kingman Kiowa Lane Pawnee Lincoln Logan Marion Meade Mitchell Montgomery Morris Nemaha Ness Norton Osage Ottawa Pawnee Phillips Pottawatomie Rawlins Republic Rice Rooks Rush Russell Sheridan Smith Stafford Stanton Trego Washington Wichita Woodson

Local pharmacies closings across state for advocacy day; learn why, see where

By TISA MASON FHSU President

At Fort Hays State University (FHSU), a new generation of farmers is emerging, ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. 

Joe Ferguson, a senior and a dedicated Kansas Army National Guard member, is a part of that new generation. He is a proud representative of his family’s multi-generational farm and an advocate for the sustainable agricultural practices that will secure a prosperous future for Kansas farming.

Joe, now 23, is poised to become the fourth generation of his family to work their land. 

But he is not merely focusing on the present; he is actively thinking ahead, contemplating the legacy he will leave behind. He firmly believes that farmers today must secure water resources for future generations. Joe’s journey at FHSU has helped him acquire knowledge and apply innovative practices that can help address looming agricultural challenges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Tisa Mason, FHSU president. FHSU photo" />
 <figcaption>Tisa Mason, FHSU president. FHSU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON FHSU PresidentAt Fort Hays State University (FHSU), a new generation of farmers is emerging, ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Joe Ferguson, a senior and a dedicated Kansas Army National Guard member, is a part of that new generation. He is a proud representative of his family’s multi-generational farm and an advocate for the sustainable agricultural practices that will secure a prosperous future for Kansas farming.Joe, now 23, is poised to become the fourth generation of his family to work their land. But he is not merely focusing on the present; he is actively thinking ahead, contemplating the legacy he will leave behind. He firmly believes that farmers today must secure water resources for future generations. Joe’s journey at FHSU has helped him acquire knowledge and apply innovative practices that can help address looming agricultural challenges.The significance of effective water management was underscored by the recent remarks of Governor Kelly during her State of the State address, where she highlighted both Joe's promising future and concerning data about dwindling water supplies across Kansas, especially in the western regions. “Without that water, the agricultural industry that fuels our economy and sustains our rural way of life cannot survive,” Governor Kelly said. Joe Ferguson embodies this challenge, fully aware of its implications for his future as a farmer.Receiving recognition from Governor Kelly in her address felt surreal for Joe. He described it as a proud moment, made even more significant by the support and encouragement from his family, the university community, and others.“It was a powerful reminder of how far I’ve come, thanks to the unwavering support of my family, community, and my education at FHSU,” Joe said.After the address, the flood of support was overwhelming, with individuals expressing gratitude and offering opportunities to assist him in his educational pursuits and his family farm. “Hearing the words of Governor Kelly and being able to connect with esteemed leaders in our state was an unforgettable experience.” A particularly memorable moment was when Kansas State Representative Jim Minnix thanked him before he left the Capitol building, reinforcing how meaningful this experience was.Attending FHSU was an easy decision for Joe. The combination of a supportive community, proximity to his family farm, and the university's exemplary agriculture program made it the perfect fit. He learned of FHSU’s exceptional reputation and affordability through friends and family. Once enrolled, he dove headfirst into the opportunities available, rapidly developing academically and personally.Having taken on leadership roles as Vice President of the Agronomy Business Club and as an active member of Delta Tau Alpha, the national agriculture honor society, Joe’s experiences extend well beyond the classroom. He appreciates the unique blend of cutting-edge education combined with practical, hands-on learning—a hallmark of FHSU’s approach to preparing students for the realities of modern agriculture.“My time at FHSU has been transformative. I’ve had the privilege of organizing events that connect students with industry professionals,” Joe said. “Each experience has provided me with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive and continue the proud legacy of my family farm.”His passion for agriculture is much deeper than fostering soil health or maximizing yields; to Joe, it encompasses the responsibility of adopting innovative technologies and sustainable practices. His FHSU education has allowed him to explore essential topics like precision agriculture and water conservation—skills crucial for Kansas farmers as they navigate growing environmental challenges.A highlight of Joe’s academic journey was being selected to represent FHSU on the Governor’s Water Conference student panel. This prestigious opportunity gave him a platform to emphasize the importance of water conservation practices—and how the younger generation of farmers can contribute to this cause.&nbsp; “Engaging with policymakers, researchers, and fellow students who share a passion for agriculture and sustainability was inspiring," he said. His participation underscored his commitment to being part of the solution as Kansas faces critical water management issues.During the conference, Joe shared insights on essential strategies like precision irrigation, which maximizes water efficiency while maintaining agricultural productivity. He emphasized how education is pivotal in preparing the next generation of farming leaders to face these pressing challenges. His enthusiasm for advocacy and community engagement shone through as he presented his ideas, reinforcing the vital link between sustainable practices, education, and legislative support.Joe’s trajectory at FHSU is not merely about personal achievements but also about building a network that fosters growth and innovation. Being a part of our agriculture program has provided him with invaluable connections and insights that will benefit him as he returns to the family farm.“FHSU has been more than just a university –it’s been a launchpad for my future,” Joe said.For those considering agriculture, Joe encourages exploration at FHSU—where academic, professional, and personal growth intertwine seamlessly. "Whether you're from a farm like mine or just have a passion for agriculture, the opportunities here are unmatched, and the encouragement from faculty and peers is incredible."Joe embodies hope—not just for his family but for the entire agricultural community in Kansas. His commitment to sustainable practices and resource management is a blueprint for the future of farming. With young leaders like Joe at the helm, Kansans have every reason to be optimistic about the future of its agricultural industry. As the state grapples with the critical issue of water scarcity, Joe Ferguson is determined to contribute actively to finding solutions that ensure the land, community, and agriculture remain viable for years.In an uncertain landscape, Joe reminds us of the power of education, community support, and proactive leadership in shaping a sustainable future. His journey is just beginning, but the impact he will undoubtedly have is already being felt—not only within his family but throughout the broader farming community in Kansas.