By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A new quiet spot for cocktails is making its mark on downtown Hays' nightlife.

Israel Luna, owner of Las Hefas and now Mixto Cocktail Bar, said his new location at 107 E. 11th St. offers a small, lounge-style setting built for more private drinks.

"It's a small space for this concept. I think it fits perfectly for what we're trying to do, a small space where people can have a drink, whereas a big restaurant can sometimes get really loud," Lunda said.

Luna said the idea took shape when the former Hays Nutrition space became available. He saw potential for a bar on the main floor and a lounge in the basement, which offers a second atmosphere. The bar officially opened Oct. 31.

"There are couches, and it's a little bit darker. It's not super big, but it feels more intimate than upstairs. There are almost two different ambiences to the restaurant," Luna said.

Luna said Mixto avoids loud music and offers light table service from its bartenders. The building underwent minor remodeling.

Mixto focuses on cocktails and does not serve food, though Luna said customers are welcome to bring their own or order delivery from Las Hefas. The bar’s menu features a range of cocktails built around gin, tequila, vodka, whiskey and rum.

"Our approach is simple. We want to do cocktails that are spirit-forward with not a lot of syrups. You want to get what you're paying for, and that's what we're focusing on," Luna said.

Mixto is offering Christmas-themed specialty drinks, including Santa’s Margarita, a blood orange and coconut blend made with house tequila, and Jack Frost’s Margarita, a blue coconut version also made with house tequila.

Others include a Rompop Martini, a traditional Mexican eggnog-style liqueur with rum, and a Peppermint Espresso Martini with a subtle mint twist.

"A lot of these cocktails are really hard to find anywhere else in Hays," Luna said. "We have a single barrel tequila that was made just for Las Hefas that we carry here... that's a very limited release. We've had it for about two weeks, and it's gone very well. It probably won't last very much longer."

Luna said many customers stop in for a drink or two before heading to their next plans, but the bar has also hosted private events despite its limited space.

The bar is open from 5 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Luna said he hopes to expand those hours as Mixto becomes more established and plans to add outdoor seating after winter.

"We're happy to be in downtown. It's a busy place, and it's the heart of Hays," he said.

Mixto has also been working with Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City. Luna said he hopes to host a tasting with them at the bar.

You can follow Mixto Cocktail Bar on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582842150673">Facebook</a>&nbsp;for upcoming specialty and seasonal drinks. You can also reach out through the page for hosting private events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765311158911.jpeg" alt="The front entrance of Mixto Cocktail Bar in downtown Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The front entrance of Mixto Cocktail Bar in downtown Hays. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA new quiet spot for cocktails is making its mark on downtown Hays' nightlife.Israel Luna, owner of Las Hefas and now Mixto Cocktail Bar, said his new location at 107 E. 11th St. offers a small, lounge-style setting built for more private drinks."It's a small space for this concept. I think it fits perfectly for what we're trying to do, a small space where people can have a drink, whereas a big restaurant can sometimes get really loud," Lunda said.Luna said the idea took shape when the former Hays Nutrition space became available. He saw potential for a bar on the main floor and a lounge in the basement, which offers a second atmosphere. The bar officially opened Oct. 31.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765380723260.jpeg" alt="The Mixto bar on the main floor. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Mixto bar on the main floor. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765380742171.jpeg" alt="Seating on the main floor of Mixto Cocktail Bar. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Seating on the main floor of Mixto Cocktail Bar. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765380829200.jpeg" alt="The lounge area in the basement of Mixto Cocktail Bar.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The lounge area in the basement of Mixto Cocktail Bar.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765380848573.jpeg" alt="A TV in the lounge area in the basement of Mixto Cocktail Bar.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A TV in the lounge area in the basement of Mixto Cocktail Bar.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"There are couches, and it's a little bit darker. It's not super big, but it feels more intimate than upstairs. There are almost two different ambiences to the restaurant," Luna said.Luna said Mixto avoids loud music and offers light table service from its bartenders. The building underwent minor remodeling.Mixto focuses on cocktails and does not serve food, though Luna said customers are welcome to bring their own or order delivery from Las Hefas. The bar’s menu features a range of cocktails built around gin, tequila, vodka, whiskey and rum."Our approach is simple. We want to do cocktails that are spirit-forward with not a lot of syrups. You want to get what you're paying for, and that's what we're focusing on," Luna said.Mixto is offering Christmas-themed specialty drinks, including Santa’s Margarita, a blood orange and coconut blend made with house tequila, and Jack Frost’s Margarita, a blue coconut version also made with house tequila.Others include a Rompop Martini, a traditional Mexican eggnog-style liqueur with rum, and a Peppermint Espresso Martini with a subtle mint twist."A lot of these cocktails are really hard to find anywhere else in Hays," Luna said. "We have a single barrel tequila that was made just for Las Hefas that we carry here... that's a very limited release. We've had it for about two weeks, and it's gone very well. It probably won't last very much longer."Luna said many customers stop in for a drink or two before heading to their next plans, but the bar has also hosted private events despite its limited space.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765380915719.jpeg" alt="More seating area in the basement of Mixto Cocktail Bar.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>More seating area in the basement of Mixto Cocktail Bar.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765380930340.jpeg" alt="Highchair seating area at the entrance of Mixto Cocktail Bar in Hays.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Highchair seating area at the entrance of Mixto Cocktail Bar in Hays.&nbsp;Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The bar is open from 5 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Luna said he hopes to expand those hours as Mixto becomes more established and plans to add outdoor seating after winter."We're happy to be in downtown. It's a busy place, and it's the heart of Hays," he said.Mixto has also been working with Boot Hill Distillery in Dodge City. Luna said he hopes to host a tasting with them at the bar.You can follow Mixto Cocktail Bar on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582842150673">Facebook</a>&nbsp;for upcoming specialty and seasonal drinks. You can also reach out through the page for hosting private events.

Mixto Cocktail Bar brings quiet, intimate experience to Hays

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays Area Planning Commission will consider two rezoning requests on East 27th Street at its meeting today.

The first request is for property at 2460 E. 27th St. to be rezoned from an agricultural district to a light industrial district. Commissioners are expected to set a public hearing for Jan. 19 to consider the proposed rezoning.

The property is owned by L&amp;A Enterprises. The owner wants the zoning change in order to expand services.

The second rezoning request is for adjacent property at&nbsp;2470 E. 27th St. owned by Josh Ziegler, who wants to change the designation from general commercial district to&nbsp;light industrial district. A public hearing is also expected to be on Jan. 19.&nbsp;

Ziegler owns and operates <a href="https://www.tsbstorage.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23323755535&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAokUTqCRaxeubmKyusoso_RcCp8Ue&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAl-_JBhBjEiwAn3rN7Uu-Tmxv4JVtdjMi4Fbm4GUE55Gcd4ji0N4oSpadTrSohYTt32qBghoCp2cQAvD_BwE">T.S.B. Storage</a> on&nbsp;the property.

The commission will also discuss pros and cons of adopting reduced side&nbsp; setbacks for carports.&nbsp;Under current rules, carports must meet accessory structure side and rear setbacks of 5 feet.

The complete Dec. 15 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12152025-1586">here</a>. The meeting begins at 4 p.m.in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584473406560.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Hays Area Planning Commission will consider two rezoning requests on East 27th Street at its meeting today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765560365524.png" alt="L&amp;A Enterprises, 2460 E. 27th St. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>L&amp;A Enterprises, 2460 E. 27th St. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The first request is for property at 2460 E. 27th St. to be rezoned from an agricultural district to a light industrial district. Commissioners are expected to set a public hearing for Jan. 19 to consider the proposed rezoning.The property is owned by L&amp;A Enterprises. The owner wants the zoning change in order to expand services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765560870231.png" alt="T.S.B. Storage, 2470 E .27th St. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>T.S.B. Storage, 2470 E .27th St. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>The second rezoning request is for adjacent property at&nbsp;2470 E. 27th St. owned by Josh Ziegler, who wants to change the designation from general commercial district to&nbsp;light industrial district. A public hearing is also expected to be on Jan. 19.&nbsp; Ziegler owns and operates <a href="https://www.tsbstorage.com/?gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23323755535&amp;gbraid=0AAAAAokUTqCRaxeubmKyusoso_RcCp8Ue&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAl-_JBhBjEiwAn3rN7Uu-Tmxv4JVtdjMi4Fbm4GUE55Gcd4ji0N4oSpadTrSohYTt32qBghoCp2cQAvD_BwE">T.S.B. Storage</a> on&nbsp;the property.The commission will also discuss pros and cons of adopting reduced side&nbsp; setbacks for carports.&nbsp;Under current rules, carports must meet accessory structure side and rear setbacks of 5 feet.The complete Dec. 15 agenda is available <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_12152025-1586">here</a>. The meeting begins at 4 p.m.in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays Area Planning Commission to review zoning requests in east Hays

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

To allow for move-in time, Hays Middle School students will have an extended Christmas break.&nbsp;HMS will not have classes on Dec. 18, 19 or Jan. 6. Other Hays schools will be in session on those days.

The middle school is moving into the former high school building on 13th Street. The school has been undergoing renovations since May.

The middle school is planning an open house for students on Tuesday, Jan. 6, so they can see their new classrooms.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4906798e-f3ac-4473-a4cb-4899a08613e3">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Middle, O'Loughlin Elementary projects on schedule</a>

To ease traffic flow, HMS start and release times will be staggered by 10 minutes compared to the high school.

Pick up and drop off for HMS students will be on the west side of the school in the former Hays High School student parking lot, according to Principal Tom Albers.

Visitors to the school will need to enter Hays Middle School through the main entrance on the west side of the school, which was also the main entrance for the former high school. Visitors will need to check in through the office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763502408793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTo allow for move-in time, Hays Middle School students will have an extended Christmas break.&nbsp;HMS will not have classes on Dec. 18, 19 or Jan. 6. Other Hays schools will be in session on those days.The middle school is moving into the former high school building on 13th Street. The school has been undergoing renovations since May.The middle school is planning an open house for students on Tuesday, Jan. 6, so they can see their new classrooms.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4906798e-f3ac-4473-a4cb-4899a08613e3">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays Middle, O'Loughlin Elementary projects on schedule</a>To ease traffic flow, HMS start and release times will be staggered by 10 minutes compared to the high school.Pick up and drop off for HMS students will be on the west side of the school in the former Hays High School student parking lot, according to Principal Tom Albers.Visitors to the school will need to enter Hays Middle School through the main entrance on the west side of the school, which was also the main entrance for the former high school. Visitors will need to check in through the office.

Hays Middle School to extend student Christmas break to allow for move

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Fort Hays State women's wrestling team had a strong showing at the Avila Eagle Women's Open on Sunday (Dec. 14). The team's performance was highlighted by Grace Johns (207) and Samara Markwardt (131) capturing titles in their respective classes.

The Tigers entered 14 competitors across multiple classes and came away with several podium finishes, including Jazmin Roschmann placing second at 124, and Gabby Hampton (117), Alexis Burton (145), Hayleen Martinez (180) all earning third‑place honors. Ashlyn Hahn was fourth at 138, while Jade Blackhart (145) and Josie Houk (160) placed sixth, giving the Tigers nine total placers.

Markwardt ran through the 131 bracket with a 4-0 record, posting a fall, two tech falls, and a decision on her way to the title. Johns opened with a fall and then had a pair of decisions to go 3-0 at 207. Roschmann recorded a pair of tech falls before dropping the 124 title match by the same type of result.

Hayleen Martinez went 5-1 for the day a 180, battling back after an early loss for four straight wins to place third. Gabby Hampton (117) and Alexis Burton (145) each went 4-1 to claim third in their classes.

Ashlyn Hahn placed fourth at 138 with a record of 3-2. Josie Houk had to battle back from an early loss to go 5-1 at 160 to place sixth, while Jade Blackhart picked up two wins to place sixth at 145.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765797618867.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Fort Hays State women's wrestling team had a strong showing at the Avila Eagle Women's Open on Sunday (Dec. 14). The team's performance was highlighted by Grace Johns (207) and Samara Markwardt (131) capturing titles in their respective classes.The Tigers entered 14 competitors across multiple classes and came away with several podium finishes, including Jazmin Roschmann placing second at 124, and Gabby Hampton (117), Alexis Burton (145), Hayleen Martinez (180) all earning third‑place honors. Ashlyn Hahn was fourth at 138, while Jade Blackhart (145) and Josie Houk (160) placed sixth, giving the Tigers nine total placers.Markwardt ran through the 131 bracket with a 4-0 record, posting a fall, two tech falls, and a decision on her way to the title. Johns opened with a fall and then had a pair of decisions to go 3-0 at 207. Roschmann recorded a pair of tech falls before dropping the 124 title match by the same type of result.Hayleen Martinez went 5-1 for the day a 180, battling back after an early loss for four straight wins to place third. Gabby Hampton (117) and Alexis Burton (145) each went 4-1 to claim third in their classes.Ashlyn Hahn placed fourth at 138 with a record of 3-2. Josie Houk had to battle back from an early loss to go 5-1 at 160 to place sixth, while Jade Blackhart picked up two wins to place sixth at 145.

🤼‍♀️ Markwardt and Johns victorious at Avila Open, Tigers place nine

ELLIS COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Sunday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported three&nbsp;pedestrians were loading a disabled vehicle onto a trailer pulled by a 1996 Ford F250 on the north shoulder of Interstate 70 near the 183 Bypass.&nbsp;&nbsp; The pickup was legally parked and towing a 2014 Eagle trailer which was hauling a 2009 Chevy Tahoe. One pedestrian was attempting to strap down the vehicle on the side of the trailer closest to the roadway. 

A westbound 2026 Freightliner semi driven by Alejandro&nbsp;Fuentes-Castro, 53, Wilmington, Deleware, failed to maintain his lane, and struck the pedestrian who was located on the roadway side of the vehicle.

Julio&nbsp;Caesar Villarreal, 37, WaKeeney, was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Klines Mortuary. Two other pedestrians identified as Randall L&nbsp;Hilgers, 42, WaKeeney and&nbsp; Juan A.&nbsp; Mejia, 53, San Diego, California, were not injured. An 11-year-old in the 1996 Ford pulling the trailer was not injured.&nbsp; Both the Ford pickup and Chevy Tahoe sustained damage.

Fuentes-Castro was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Sunday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported three&nbsp;pedestrians were loading a disabled vehicle onto a trailer pulled by a 1996 Ford F250 on the north shoulder of Interstate 70 near the 183 Bypass.&nbsp;&nbsp; The pickup was legally parked and towing a 2014 Eagle trailer which was hauling a 2009 Chevy Tahoe. One pedestrian was attempting to strap down the vehicle on the side of the trailer closest to the roadway. A westbound 2026 Freightliner semi driven by Alejandro&nbsp;Fuentes-Castro, 53, Wilmington, Deleware, failed to maintain his lane, and struck the pedestrian who was located on the roadway side of the vehicle.Julio&nbsp;Caesar Villarreal, 37, WaKeeney, was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Klines Mortuary. Two other pedestrians identified as Randall L&nbsp;Hilgers, 42, WaKeeney and&nbsp; Juan A.&nbsp; Mejia, 53, San Diego, California, were not injured. An 11-year-old in the 1996 Ford pulling the trailer was not injured.&nbsp; Both the Ford pickup and Chevy Tahoe sustained damage.Fuentes-Castro was not injured and properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Westbound I-70 will be shutdown at mile post 157 for a fatality investigation. Westbound traffic will be diverted to the U-183 bypass, then Old Hwy 40 to Yocemento where you can get back on I-70. Unknown how long it will be shutdown. <a href="https://t.co/aOPtTIwz6G">pic.twitter.com/aOPtTIwz6G</a>&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/2000341053745103126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

KHP: Westbound I-70 now open after an investigation of a fatal crash

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The death of a 32-year-old man&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-epic-universe-roller-coaster-death-851345f89f44e640f93cbf7d929923fc">after riding a high-speed roller coaster</a>&nbsp;at the Universal Epic Universe theme park was accidental, and an investigation has been closed, according to a Florida sheriff’s office report released this week.

Meanwhile, a medical examiner’s report released Friday showed that the left side of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s forehead had a deep gash, and the bony ridge above his eye was fractured. He had bleeding above his skull, bruises on his abdomen and arms, and his nose and right thigh bone were fractured, the medical examiner’s report said.

The medical examiner in Orlando previously had ruled the death an accident, saying Zavala died of blunt-impact injuries. The investigative report by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando said that workers at Epic Universe followed procedures and weren’t careless or neglectful.

Epic Universe is the newest theme park at Universal Orlando Resort.

Security video showed Zavala “engaged and well” at the start of the ride but unresponsive and slouched over in his seat at the end, according to the sheriff’s office report.

When the ride came to a stop, Zavala was bleeding from the face, and his body was slumped over, according to witnesses.

Anna Marshall, a medical doctor who was standing in line to board the ride, said Zavala was slouched over and surrounded by blood when the coaster returned to the boarding platform. His arm was hanging over the ride, and his thigh bone was broken in half and resting on the back of the ride chair, she told investigators.

Zavala used a wheelchair. As Marshall rendered aid, Zavala’s girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz-Robles, who was beside him on the ride, told the doctor that he had metal rods in his back from a previous spinal surgery.

“Dr. Marshall explained that she did not believe that just because Kevin Rodriguez-Zavala didn’t have use of his legs that that was the sole reason why this occurred,” the report said.

Zavala’s family said the condition leading to his disability, which they described as spinal cord atrophy, didn’t cause his death on Sept. 17. The media office for attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Zavala’s family, didn’t return an emailed inquiry about the sheriff’s office report on Friday.

Zavala had severe facial trauma when the ride stopped. He was still secured in his ride seat by a lap bar, which ride operators had difficulty releasing for 10 minutes, Universal paramedic Sebastian Torres told sheriff’s office investigators.

“‘The guest was stuck on the ride vehicle face down, falling out of his seat, with legs inverted,’” Torres wrote in a statement included in the report.

Cruz-Robles told investigators that a ride operator had to push Zavala’s lap restraint down several times before it was safely in place when they first got on the ride, and she thought the restraint bar was positioned too low on their laps. When the coaster began the first downward movement, she said Zavala flew forward and hit his head on the metal bar in front of them. During the ride Zavala hit his head several times more, and Cruz-Robles said she tried but was unable to hold him back.

“Javiliz was crying for help, but due to being in the middle of the ride, no one heard her screaming for help until the train cart was getting close to the station,” the report said.

The sheriff’s office report noted there were warning signs posted at the ride’s entrance telling patrons about sudden drops and accelerations. The signs said guests shouldn’t go on the ride with certain conditions, including “back, neck or similar physical conditions,” or if they’ve had recent surgeries or conditions that could be aggravated by the ride.

Zavala’s parents told investigators that their son had previously fractured a thigh bone that required surgery in 2020 and had a hip dislocation that required surgery in 2010.

The dual-launch coaster reaches speeds up to 62 mph (100 kph) and debuted officially in May when Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park opened to the public.

This story has been corrected to reflect that the incident took place at Universal Epic Universe theme park, not Universal Studios Florida theme park. Both parks are at the Universal Orlando Resort.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765718683623.jpg" alt="File image courtey PIxaby" />
 <figcaption>File image courtey PIxaby</figcaption>
 </figure>ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — The death of a 32-year-old man&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/florida-epic-universe-roller-coaster-death-851345f89f44e640f93cbf7d929923fc">after riding a high-speed roller coaster</a>&nbsp;at the Universal Epic Universe theme park was accidental, and an investigation has been closed, according to a Florida sheriff’s office report released this week.Meanwhile, a medical examiner’s report released Friday showed that the left side of Kevin Rodriguez Zavala’s forehead had a deep gash, and the bony ridge above his eye was fractured. He had bleeding above his skull, bruises on his abdomen and arms, and his nose and right thigh bone were fractured, the medical examiner’s report said.The medical examiner in Orlando previously had ruled the death an accident, saying Zavala died of blunt-impact injuries. The investigative report by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando said that workers at Epic Universe followed procedures and weren’t careless or neglectful.Epic Universe is the newest theme park at Universal Orlando Resort.Security video showed Zavala “engaged and well” at the start of the ride but unresponsive and slouched over in his seat at the end, according to the sheriff’s office report.When the ride came to a stop, Zavala was bleeding from the face, and his body was slumped over, according to witnesses.Anna Marshall, a medical doctor who was standing in line to board the ride, said Zavala was slouched over and surrounded by blood when the coaster returned to the boarding platform. His arm was hanging over the ride, and his thigh bone was broken in half and resting on the back of the ride chair, she told investigators.Zavala used a wheelchair. As Marshall rendered aid, Zavala’s girlfriend, Javiliz Cruz-Robles, who was beside him on the ride, told the doctor that he had metal rods in his back from a previous spinal surgery.“Dr. Marshall explained that she did not believe that just because Kevin Rodriguez-Zavala didn’t have use of his legs that that was the sole reason why this occurred,” the report said.Zavala’s family said the condition leading to his disability, which they described as spinal cord atrophy, didn’t cause his death on Sept. 17. The media office for attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Zavala’s family, didn’t return an emailed inquiry about the sheriff’s office report on Friday.Zavala had severe facial trauma when the ride stopped. He was still secured in his ride seat by a lap bar, which ride operators had difficulty releasing for 10 minutes, Universal paramedic Sebastian Torres told sheriff’s office investigators.“‘The guest was stuck on the ride vehicle face down, falling out of his seat, with legs inverted,’” Torres wrote in a statement included in the report.Cruz-Robles told investigators that a ride operator had to push Zavala’s lap restraint down several times before it was safely in place when they first got on the ride, and she thought the restraint bar was positioned too low on their laps. When the coaster began the first downward movement, she said Zavala flew forward and hit his head on the metal bar in front of them. During the ride Zavala hit his head several times more, and Cruz-Robles said she tried but was unable to hold him back.“Javiliz was crying for help, but due to being in the middle of the ride, no one heard her screaming for help until the train cart was getting close to the station,” the report said.The sheriff’s office report noted there were warning signs posted at the ride’s entrance telling patrons about sudden drops and accelerations. The signs said guests shouldn’t go on the ride with certain conditions, including “back, neck or similar physical conditions,” or if they’ve had recent surgeries or conditions that could be aggravated by the ride.Zavala’s parents told investigators that their son had previously fractured a thigh bone that required surgery in 2020 and had a hip dislocation that required surgery in 2010.The dual-launch coaster reaches speeds up to 62 mph (100 kph) and debuted officially in May when Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park opened to the public.___This story has been corrected to reflect that the incident took place at Universal Epic Universe theme park, not Universal Studios Florida theme park. Both parks are at the Universal Orlando Resort.

Sheriff rules on cause of man's death on roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort 

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks about nutrition and fitness tracking apps with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Nutrition and fitness tracking apps" 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=vm23i-19ea6cd-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks about nutrition and fitness tracking apps with Jessica Phelan, assistant professor in the Fort Hays State University Department of Health and Human Performance.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Nutrition, fitness tracking apps 

By GARRETT WELLBROCK Hays Post Sports

WAKEENEY - The Victoria Knights (3-1) came onto the road to beat the host school Trego (3-1) in the championship game of the Purple and Gold Tournament Saturday night.

Boys Championship: Victoria 53, Trego 43

The Knights got off to a quick 11-6 start in a slow first quarter but then they saw their lead diminish after a 4+ minute scoring drought.&nbsp;

Trego would go on an 8-0 run to take the lead back and go up 14-11, it was a very back and forth game from there.

Trego's Mason Yingling would hit a 3 right before the 2nd quarter buzzer to send the game tied at 23 to the locker rooms.

Trego came out of halftime firing shooting 6-13 from the field in the 3rd quarter and took advantage of the Knights slow start to begin the 3rd as Victoria started the second half 1-11 from the field.

The Golden Eagles had their largest lead of the game at 35-29 when everything turned.

Nick Sander hit a three with time expiring in the 3rd quarter and that would propel the Knight offense into the 4th.

Sander would hit 2 big 3's again early 4th and Victoria turned a 6 point deficit into a 6 point lead just like that going on a 12-0 run.

Victoria would never trail again, they outscored Trego 21-8 in the 4th to win by 10 and claim the Purple and Gold Tournament Championship.

Nick Sander finished with 22 points 9 rebounds for the Knights, Cody Schmidtberger added 10 points.

For Trego their leading scorer was Aceton Walt who finished with 13 and hit 3 3's. Victoria held the freshman Vladon Crawford, Trego's leading scorer this season, to only 9 points and all of them came in the second half.

Victoria moves to 3-1 on the season and now will travel to Osborne on Tuesday.

Trego falls to 3-1 as well and will have a rematch of their semifinal game on Tuesday at Hodgeman County.

Girls Championship: Hoxie 65, Hodgeman County 42

By GARRETT WELLBROCK Hays Post SportsWAKEENEY - The Victoria Knights (3-1) came onto the road to beat the host school Trego (3-1) in the championship game of the Purple and Gold Tournament Saturday night.Boys Championship: Victoria 53, Trego 43The Knights got off to a quick 11-6 start in a slow first quarter but then they saw their lead diminish after a 4+ minute scoring drought.&nbsp;Trego would go on an 8-0 run to take the lead back and go up 14-11, it was a very back and forth game from there.Trego's Mason Yingling would hit a 3 right before the 2nd quarter buzzer to send the game tied at 23 to the locker rooms.Trego came out of halftime firing shooting 6-13 from the field in the 3rd quarter and took advantage of the Knights slow start to begin the 3rd as Victoria started the second half 1-11 from the field.The Golden Eagles had their largest lead of the game at 35-29 when everything turned.Nick Sander hit a three with time expiring in the 3rd quarter and that would propel the Knight offense into the 4th.Sander would hit 2 big 3's again early 4th and Victoria turned a 6 point deficit into a 6 point lead just like that going on a 12-0 run.Victoria would never trail again, they outscored Trego 21-8 in the 4th to win by 10 and claim the Purple and Gold Tournament Championship.Nick Sander finished with 22 points 9 rebounds for the Knights, Cody Schmidtberger added 10 points.For Trego their leading scorer was Aceton Walt who finished with 13 and hit 3 3's. Victoria held the freshman Vladon Crawford, Trego's leading scorer this season, to only 9 points and all of them came in the second half.Victoria moves to 3-1 on the season and now will travel to Osborne on Tuesday.Trego falls to 3-1 as well and will have a rematch of their semifinal game on Tuesday at Hodgeman County.Girls Championship: Hoxie 65, Hodgeman County 42

🏀Victoria claims Purple and Gold tournament championship

By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas Outdoors

I recently saw a Facebook post from Amanda Sellers in Arkansas, sharing her feelings concerning comments she received about a hunting picture she’d posted. Her reply sincerely struck a chord with me, so I asked for, and received her permission to share her post as a weekly column. 

In this post, she shows such an awareness and gives such a good and simple explanation of the importance hunting plays in our country, that I thought it needed to be passed-on. So here, in her own words is Amanda’s perception of the role hunting plays in their lifestyle.

“I am a homeschooling mom of 12 kids, raised in north-central Arkansas. I have traveled to many countries and lived halfway across the U.S. just to sell everything and move back to our roots. We do mission work local and foreign, and I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to raise my family the way we do - connected to the land and our heritage!

"I shared a hunting photo recently and it brought in a lot of strong reactions. I understand why. Hunting can feel uncomfortable if you didn't grow up around it. But I want to share why it matters where we live and why so many families in this region still participate in it.

"For generations, people here processed their own food. They understood where it came from. They used the meat to feed their families and honored the animal by not wasting it.

"Today most of us are so disconnected from our food system that we forget what actually has to happen for food to reach a store shelf.

"Hunting in our area is also part of caring for the land. When wildlife populations grow beyond what the ecosystem can support, animals face starvation, disease, and slow painful deaths. Regulated hunting keeps the population healthy and prevents suffering. It is one of the ways we protect the wildlife that lives in the forests around us.

"There is another point that matters to me. If we care this deeply about protecting life in the woods, we should care even more about protecting life in the womb. Human life begins at conception. It is precious from the very first moment it exists and deserves protection just as fiercely.

"My heart in sharing any of this is simple. Connection matters. Stewardship matters. Life matters. And understanding where our food comes from, and why we value all forms of life, is something worth talking about.”

Given the distance our country as a whole has chosen to distance itself from God, and given the fact that now, so many opinions are formed and so many decisions are made using emotions alone, with little or no factual input, its refreshing and comforting to hear the above. 

Thank you, Amanda… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STEVE GILLILAND Explore Kansas OutdoorsI recently saw a Facebook post from Amanda Sellers in Arkansas, sharing her feelings concerning comments she received about a hunting picture she’d posted. Her reply sincerely struck a chord with me, so I asked for, and received her permission to share her post as a weekly column. In this post, she shows such an awareness and gives such a good and simple explanation of the importance hunting plays in our country, that I thought it needed to be passed-on. So here, in her own words is Amanda’s perception of the role hunting plays in their lifestyle.“I am a homeschooling mom of 12 kids, raised in north-central Arkansas. I have traveled to many countries and lived halfway across the U.S. just to sell everything and move back to our roots. We do mission work local and foreign, and I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to raise my family the way we do - connected to the land and our heritage!"I shared a hunting photo recently and it brought in a lot of strong reactions. I understand why. Hunting can feel uncomfortable if you didn't grow up around it. But I want to share why it matters where we live and why so many families in this region still participate in it."For generations, people here processed their own food. They understood where it came from. They used the meat to feed their families and honored the animal by not wasting it."Today most of us are so disconnected from our food system that we forget what actually has to happen for food to reach a store shelf."Hunting in our area is also part of caring for the land. When wildlife populations grow beyond what the ecosystem can support, animals face starvation, disease, and slow painful deaths. Regulated hunting keeps the population healthy and prevents suffering. It is one of the ways we protect the wildlife that lives in the forests around us."There is another point that matters to me. If we care this deeply about protecting life in the woods, we should care even more about protecting life in the womb. Human life begins at conception. It is precious from the very first moment it exists and deserves protection just as fiercely."My heart in sharing any of this is simple. Connection matters. Stewardship matters. Life matters. And understanding where our food comes from, and why we value all forms of life, is something worth talking about.”Given the distance our country as a whole has chosen to distance itself from God, and given the fact that now, so many opinions are formed and so many decisions are made using emotions alone, with little or no factual input, its refreshing and comforting to hear the above. Thank you, Amanda… Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Explore Kansas Outdoors: Amanda’s perception

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, was in Hays Tuesday to discuss his campaign for Kansas Secretary of State.

The Fort Hays State University College Republicans hosted Proctor, who aims to restore confidence in elections by promoting greater transparency, preventing noncitizens from voting, cleaning voter rolls and limiting ballot harvesting.

Proctor highlighted the end of the state’s three-day grace period for mail ballots. Starting in 2026, all ballots must be returned by 7 p.m. on Election Day.

"Sometimes somebody was winning on election night, and a few days later, somebody else is winning. That erodes confidence and transparency," he said.

An attendee raised concerns that ending the three-day grace period would reduce access for disabled and mail-in voters. Proctor responded that many ballots in the 2024 primary arrived without postmarks and could not be legally counted.

Proctor said he is working to add more early-voting days to compensate for the removal of the three-day grace period.

Proctor said noncitizen voting is a top concern he hears from Kansans.&nbsp;He cited the case of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8470cecb-0838-4214-866b-a7e94a754339">Joe Ceballos, a Kansas man charged with alleged election fraud after being elected mayor of Coldwater</a>.&nbsp;Proctor labeled it a fixable problem.

Proctor said the DMV has, at times, registered noncitizens to vote. He said that last year the Kansas Secretary of State’s office obtained a list of noncitizens with driver’s licenses and identified about 80 on the voter rolls, with roughly 20 suspected of having cast ballots.

Proctor said Kansas now requires the DMV to regularly provide noncitizen lists to the state to clean voter rolls, following the passage of <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2020/">House Bill 2020</a> earlier this year. The Secretary of State cannot remove voters, but can direct county election officers to remove the names of noncitizens from voter rolls.

"Do I believe that there is a vast conspiracy for noncitizens to vote in the state of Kansas? No," he said. "The point is that we can tell people with confidence, no, we know noncitizens aren't voting because we're scrubbing the voter rolls."

Proctor said ballot harvesting is another threat to election integrity, especially in competitive districts like his own. He said left-leaning nonprofits target infrequent voters who would likely support Democratic candidates if they turned out to participate.

"They send them mail-in-ballot requests after mail-in ballot requests that are pre-filled out, so the voter just has to sign it, put it in the mail and they'll get a mail-in ballot. They keep sending it to them until they get sick of receiving them," Proctor said.

Proctor claimed in his district, during his first re-election, he won by a narrow margin and claims nonprofit ballot harvesting almost produced enough votes to cost him the race.

Proctor said nonprofit workers from outside Kansas come into the state to take part in ballot harvesting. He pointed to a law limiting individuals to submitting no more than 10 ballots that are not their own, but said he wants to pursue further changes to strengthen that restriction.

"I want to change the law so that you have to be a qualified Kansas elector to turn in a Kansas ballot because," he said. "The second thing is that right now on the ballot, the person who turns it in for somebody else has to sign. I want them to also have to put their driver's license number."

Proctor said with safeguards to conceal the license number, this step would allow officials to track who is submitting ballots and enforce the 10-ballot limit. He said he would restore a prosecutor and a law enforcement officer to the secretary of state’s office to support enforcement efforts.

Proctor also raised concerns about nonprofits that are not required to disclose their funding sources. He said money will always flow into politics and argued, rather than trying to restrict it through regulations, it should be fully exposed.

"I am for radical disclosure. I believe that whether you get one cent or $1 million from somebody, you should have to report it. It should be 100% transparent," he said.

Proctor said nonprofits campaigning for or against constitutional amendments could accept foreign money because of a loophole. He said this raises concerns not only about sovereignty but also about election integrity.&nbsp;

Proctor and his wife opened a restaurant in Leavenworth in 2006. He said after launching the business, he began receiving numerous notices about regulations he was not following or complying with.

"I'm of the mind that if the state puts a regulation on a business owner, it's the state's responsibility to make sure that the business owner knows the regulation. That's common sense to me," he said.

Proctor often saw businesses closing, buildings sitting vacant and families leaving his hometown. He hopes to make it easier to start a business if elected as Secretary of State.

Proctor spoke about his background and motivation for entering politics after serving 25 years in the army, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

He was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in 2020 and now serves as chairman of both the House Elections Committee and the Joint Committee on Kansas Security. Proctor is also an assistant professor at Wichita State University, where he teaches courses on national security.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765383662113.jpeg" alt="Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, at Fort Hays State University. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, at Fort Hays State University. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostRep. Pat Proctor, R-Leavenworth, 41st House District, was in Hays Tuesday to discuss his campaign for Kansas Secretary of State.The Fort Hays State University College Republicans hosted Proctor, who aims to restore confidence in elections by promoting greater transparency, preventing noncitizens from voting, cleaning voter rolls and limiting ballot harvesting.Proctor highlighted the end of the state’s three-day grace period for mail ballots. Starting in 2026, all ballots must be returned by 7 p.m. on Election Day."Sometimes somebody was winning on election night, and a few days later, somebody else is winning. That erodes confidence and transparency," he said.An attendee raised concerns that ending the three-day grace period would reduce access for disabled and mail-in voters. Proctor responded that many ballots in the 2024 primary arrived without postmarks and could not be legally counted.Proctor said he is working to add more early-voting days to compensate for the removal of the three-day grace period.Proctor said noncitizen voting is a top concern he hears from Kansans.&nbsp;He cited the case of <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/8470cecb-0838-4214-866b-a7e94a754339">Joe Ceballos, a Kansas man charged with alleged election fraud after being elected mayor of Coldwater</a>.&nbsp;Proctor labeled it a fixable problem.Proctor said the DMV has, at times, registered noncitizens to vote. He said that last year the Kansas Secretary of State’s office obtained a list of noncitizens with driver’s licenses and identified about 80 on the voter rolls, with roughly 20 suspected of having cast ballots.Proctor said Kansas now requires the DMV to regularly provide noncitizen lists to the state to clean voter rolls, following the passage of <a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2020/">House Bill 2020</a> earlier this year. The Secretary of State cannot remove voters, but can direct county election officers to remove the names of noncitizens from voter rolls."Do I believe that there is a vast conspiracy for noncitizens to vote in the state of Kansas? No," he said. "The point is that we can tell people with confidence, no, we know noncitizens aren't voting because we're scrubbing the voter rolls."Proctor said ballot harvesting is another threat to election integrity, especially in competitive districts like his own. He said left-leaning nonprofits target infrequent voters who would likely support Democratic candidates if they turned out to participate."They send them mail-in-ballot requests after mail-in ballot requests that are pre-filled out, so the voter just has to sign it, put it in the mail and they'll get a mail-in ballot. They keep sending it to them until they get sick of receiving them," Proctor said.Proctor claimed in his district, during his first re-election, he won by a narrow margin and claims nonprofit ballot harvesting almost produced enough votes to cost him the race.Proctor said nonprofit workers from outside Kansas come into the state to take part in ballot harvesting. He pointed to a law limiting individuals to submitting no more than 10 ballots that are not their own, but said he wants to pursue further changes to strengthen that restriction."I want to change the law so that you have to be a qualified Kansas elector to turn in a Kansas ballot because," he said. "The second thing is that right now on the ballot, the person who turns it in for somebody else has to sign. I want them to also have to put their driver's license number."Proctor said with safeguards to conceal the license number, this step would allow officials to track who is submitting ballots and enforce the 10-ballot limit. He said he would restore a prosecutor and a law enforcement officer to the secretary of state’s office to support enforcement efforts.Proctor also raised concerns about nonprofits that are not required to disclose their funding sources. He said money will always flow into politics and argued, rather than trying to restrict it through regulations, it should be fully exposed."I am for radical disclosure. I believe that whether you get one cent or $1 million from somebody, you should have to report it. It should be 100% transparent," he said.Proctor said nonprofits campaigning for or against constitutional amendments could accept foreign money because of a loophole. He said this raises concerns not only about sovereignty but also about election integrity.&nbsp;Proctor and his wife opened a restaurant in Leavenworth in 2006. He said after launching the business, he began receiving numerous notices about regulations he was not following or complying with."I'm of the mind that if the state puts a regulation on a business owner, it's the state's responsibility to make sure that the business owner knows the regulation. That's common sense to me," he said.Proctor often saw businesses closing, buildings sitting vacant and families leaving his hometown. He hopes to make it easier to start a business if elected as Secretary of State.Proctor spoke about his background and motivation for entering politics after serving 25 years in the army, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.He was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives in 2020 and now serves as chairman of both the House Elections Committee and the Joint Committee on Kansas Security. Proctor is also an assistant professor at Wichita State University, where he teaches courses on national security.

Secretary of state candidate Proctor calls for election transparency

By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas

By any honest measure, too many Kansas families are struggling to make ends meet. 

The latest State of ALICE in Kansas report—ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—finds that 38% of Kansas households were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023, meaning they could not afford the basics even while working. That includes 12% living in poverty and another 26% who earn too much to qualify for aid but still can’t cover essentials like housing, child care, food, transportation, and healthcare.

This isn’t a fringe problem; it’s the working backbone of our economy. These are Kansans we depend on daily, like child‑care providers, home‑health aides, cashiers, and delivery drivers. Kansans feel the squeeze. 

In the 2025 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey—conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University—36.1% said the Kansas economy is getting worse, and 46.5% reported feeling very or moderately concerned that the state’s economy could seriously threaten their family’s welfare—a worry that ticked up from last year. When people don’t see a path to stability, they pull back on spending, on investing in education, on starting businesses. That feeds a cycle of slower growth.

Inflation adds insult to injury. In September, prices across the Midwest rose 3.1%. Housing costs are up 4.5% and rent surged 5.0% compared to 3.4% nationally. For a Kansas renter already under ALICE’s budget pressure, that is the difference between paying for a car repair or skipping the prescription refill.

The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that lower-income households experience greater impact from inflation than higher-income ones, meaning Kansans living on tighter budgets face disproportionate pressures. After adjusting for inflation, Kansas’ median household incomes have barely budged post-COVID, lagging behind national progress. Inflation’s heavier burden on lower-income families widens this gap, as working families spend more of their limited incomes on essentials.

Meanwhile, the recent federal government shutdown made a bad situation worse. Kansas Action for Children reports that the shutdown disrupted key economic data flows (including unemployment statistics) and contributed to state revenues missing estimates by $3.4 million in September due to a steep $35.4 million shortfall in corporate income tax receipts, despite&nbsp;stronger individual income and sales taxes. Overall receipts for the month were about 1.9% lower than in September 2024.

Beyond numbers on a page, the shutdown threatened essential benefits: SNAP and WIC faced imminent disruption, putting nearly 190,000 Kansans at risk of losing food assistance, with 48,000 WIC recipients depending on nutrition support for mothers and children. When Washington cannot keep the lights on, the ripple effects hit our paychecks, our schools, our main streets, and exacerbated those among us who are already vulnerable.

When federal policy falters, Kansas families pay the price first. Stabilize the basics—food assistance, health insurance support, small‑business lending, predictable budgets—and we give vulnerable households the breathing room to become the bedrock of the state’s growth rather than the warning siren of its fragility.

If we want a Kansas where hard work reliably leads to stability, we need policies that stop pushing families underwater and start helping them reach the shore.

As the Kansas Legislature gears up for its 2026 session, lawmakers are already sending signals about where priorities lie—the initial bills suggest little additional support for working families. Early filings include a proposal to delay school start dates until after Labor Day; legislation aimed at loosening library-district governance; and a “Kansas Teacher Shortage Relief Act” to ease re-entry for retired educators.

These bills signal lawmakers’ attention to core community institutions like schools and libraries, but if our state truly wants to lift those families hovering near or beneath the ALICE threshold, the session must go further.

Legislators should prioritize enhanced affordability—expanding access to affordable child care, increasing housing subsidies, and upgrading income thresholds to reflect changing living costs. Federal programs remain vital, but state action can shield families when Washington falters.

The 2026 Legislature has a choice: tinker at the edges or invest in Kansans’ ability to thrive. If leadership is serious about long-term economic resilience, it must anchor its agenda in policies that pair educational and community improvements with real financial support. That means not just making communities stronger, but lifting the families who live in them.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740007073583.jpeg" alt="Alexandra Middlewood. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight KansasBy any honest measure, too many Kansas families are struggling to make ends meet. The latest State of ALICE in Kansas report—ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed—finds that 38% of Kansas households were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023, meaning they could not afford the basics even while working. That includes 12% living in poverty and another 26% who earn too much to qualify for aid but still can’t cover essentials like housing, child care, food, transportation, and healthcare.This isn’t a fringe problem; it’s the working backbone of our economy. These are Kansans we depend on daily, like child‑care providers, home‑health aides, cashiers, and delivery drivers. Kansans feel the squeeze. In the 2025 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey—conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University—36.1% said the Kansas economy is getting worse, and 46.5% reported feeling very or moderately concerned that the state’s economy could seriously threaten their family’s welfare—a worry that ticked up from last year. When people don’t see a path to stability, they pull back on spending, on investing in education, on starting businesses. That feeds a cycle of slower growth.Inflation adds insult to injury. In September, prices across the Midwest rose 3.1%. Housing costs are up 4.5% and rent surged 5.0% compared to 3.4% nationally. For a Kansas renter already under ALICE’s budget pressure, that is the difference between paying for a car repair or skipping the prescription refill.The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that lower-income households experience greater impact from inflation than higher-income ones, meaning Kansans living on tighter budgets face disproportionate pressures. After adjusting for inflation, Kansas’ median household incomes have barely budged post-COVID, lagging behind national progress. Inflation’s heavier burden on lower-income families widens this gap, as working families spend more of their limited incomes on essentials.Meanwhile, the recent federal government shutdown made a bad situation worse. Kansas Action for Children reports that the shutdown disrupted key economic data flows (including unemployment statistics) and contributed to state revenues missing estimates by $3.4 million in September due to a steep $35.4 million shortfall in corporate income tax receipts, despite&nbsp;stronger individual income and sales taxes. Overall receipts for the month were about 1.9% lower than in September 2024.Beyond numbers on a page, the shutdown threatened essential benefits: SNAP and WIC faced imminent disruption, putting nearly 190,000 Kansans at risk of losing food assistance, with 48,000 WIC recipients depending on nutrition support for mothers and children. When Washington cannot keep the lights on, the ripple effects hit our paychecks, our schools, our main streets, and exacerbated those among us who are already vulnerable.When federal policy falters, Kansas families pay the price first. Stabilize the basics—food assistance, health insurance support, small‑business lending, predictable budgets—and we give vulnerable households the breathing room to become the bedrock of the state’s growth rather than the warning siren of its fragility.If we want a Kansas where hard work reliably leads to stability, we need policies that stop pushing families underwater and start helping them reach the shore.As the Kansas Legislature gears up for its 2026 session, lawmakers are already sending signals about where priorities lie—the initial bills suggest little additional support for working families. Early filings include a proposal to delay school start dates until after Labor Day; legislation aimed at loosening library-district governance; and a “Kansas Teacher Shortage Relief Act” to ease re-entry for retired educators.These bills signal lawmakers’ attention to core community institutions like schools and libraries, but if our state truly wants to lift those families hovering near or beneath the ALICE threshold, the session must go further.Legislators should prioritize enhanced affordability—expanding access to affordable child care, increasing housing subsidies, and upgrading income thresholds to reflect changing living costs. Federal programs remain vital, but state action can shield families when Washington falters.The 2026 Legislature has a choice: tinker at the edges or invest in Kansans’ ability to thrive. If leadership is serious about long-term economic resilience, it must anchor its agenda in policies that pair educational and community improvements with real financial support. That means not just making communities stronger, but lifting the families who live in them.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD, is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

INSIGHST KANSAS: Kansas families are drowning. Will 2026 lawmakers throw a lifeline?

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces charges for a shooting that took place in a parking lot over the summer.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2779/Marshall-Complaint-Red">Marvillie Marshall</a>&nbsp;,19, is charged with Unlawful Use of a Weapon, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and 2nd Degree Assault, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2780/Marshall-REDACT-PC">According to court records</a>, a business reported to Kansas City police that a shooting had been captured on their surveillance cameras on June 29. Detectives reviewed the footage and saw about 150 vehicles in and around the business parking lot, then observed firearm muzzle flashes from two different guns. As people ran to their vehicles, a man, later identified as Marshall, wearing a gray hoodie, black Nike shoes, black jeans, and a full-face mask appeared from the top of the screen, running and hopping from east to west through the parking lot, shooting over multiple vehicles and about two dozen uninvolved parties.

 It appeared he was shooting with his left hand because his right hand looked injured, wrapped with medical supplies.&nbsp;

There were more than 100 shell casings recovered from the scene. There were no reported injuries.

Detectives were able to identify Marshall through social media, as he had a post with the exact clothing he was wearing during the incident and detectives had access to multiple videos of Marshall's injured arm/hand wrapped with the same medical supplies from the surveillance video.&nbsp;

Marshall had previously been identified by SAVE KC, but did not attend a call-in.&nbsp;

A Jackson County judge set a $25,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765560813883.png" alt="Marshall photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Marshall photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces charges for a shooting that took place in a parking lot over the summer.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2779/Marshall-Complaint-Red">Marvillie Marshall</a>&nbsp;,19, is charged with Unlawful Use of a Weapon, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and 2nd Degree Assault, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2780/Marshall-REDACT-PC">According to court records</a>, a business reported to Kansas City police that a shooting had been captured on their surveillance cameras on June 29. Detectives reviewed the footage and saw about 150 vehicles in and around the business parking lot, then observed firearm muzzle flashes from two different guns. As people ran to their vehicles, a man, later identified as Marshall, wearing a gray hoodie, black Nike shoes, black jeans, and a full-face mask appeared from the top of the screen, running and hopping from east to west through the parking lot, shooting over multiple vehicles and about two dozen uninvolved parties. It appeared he was shooting with his left hand because his right hand looked injured, wrapped with medical supplies.&nbsp;There were more than 100 shell casings recovered from the scene. There were no reported injuries.Detectives were able to identify Marshall through social media, as he had a post with the exact clothing he was wearing during the incident and detectives had access to multiple videos of Marshall's injured arm/hand wrapped with the same medical supplies from the surveillance video.&nbsp;Marshall had previously been identified by SAVE KC, but did not attend a call-in.&nbsp;A Jackson County judge set a $25,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

Social media helped police ID Kansas City parking lot shooting suspect

WICHITA – The Hays High boys’ swim team got its first crack at a large meet this season and came away with positive results.

The Indians, led by two relay teams that each finished second, scored 158 points in the Wichita Southeast Invitational – placing them in sixth place and in the top half of the 15-team event.

Wichita East, the largest school in the state, scored 394 points to win the meet, where swimmers earned points for top-16 finishes in individual events and top-11 places in relays.

Gaining the most points for HHS in the meet that featured more than 200 competitors were the 200-yard medley and 200y freestyle relays, which each garnered 34 points for their team with their runner-up finishes.

The 200y freestyle relay team of seniors Chase Zadina, Maison Desaire and Karson Flaska and junior Cedric Durr earned the right to compete at the state tournament in February with their season-best, automatic state-qualifying time of 1 minute, 39.04 seconds.

Flaska, Zadina and Durr joined senior Noah Shaeffer for the other second-place finish (200y medley relay) in posting a state-consideration time of 1:55.06. And the trio of Flaska, Zadina and Durr also scored numerous points in individual events.

Hays High also earned points from several newcomers to the team, whether it be freshmen or upperclassmen out for the sport for the first time.

The Indians will close out first-semester action Thursday at the Garden City Invitational.

Garden City is the three-time defending champion in the Western Athletic Conference. But Hays High beat the Buffaloes – and the other three WAC schools as well – at last week’s Great Bend Invitational, where the Indians won the team title.

Wichita Southeast meet&nbsp; Team scoring Wichita East 394, Derby 325, Wichita-Bishop Carroll 250, Winfield 193, Rose Hill 190, Hays High 158, Wichita Heights 151, Junction City 121, Dodge City 107, Wichita Northwest 88, Wichita Southeast 80, El Dorado 65, Wichita-Trinity 487, Liberal 12, Lost Springs-Centre

SubmittedWICHITA – The Hays High boys’ swim team got its first crack at a large meet this season and came away with positive results.The Indians, led by two relay teams that each finished second, scored 158 points in the Wichita Southeast Invitational – placing them in sixth place and in the top half of the 15-team event.Wichita East, the largest school in the state, scored 394 points to win the meet, where swimmers earned points for top-16 finishes in individual events and top-11 places in relays.Gaining the most points for HHS in the meet that featured more than 200 competitors were the 200-yard medley and 200y freestyle relays, which each garnered 34 points for their team with their runner-up finishes.The 200y freestyle relay team of seniors Chase Zadina, Maison Desaire and Karson Flaska and junior Cedric Durr earned the right to compete at the state tournament in February with their season-best, automatic state-qualifying time of 1 minute, 39.04 seconds.Flaska, Zadina and Durr joined senior Noah Shaeffer for the other second-place finish (200y medley relay) in posting a state-consideration time of 1:55.06. And the trio of Flaska, Zadina and Durr also scored numerous points in individual events.Hays High also earned points from several newcomers to the team, whether it be freshmen or upperclassmen out for the sport for the first time.The Indians will close out first-semester action Thursday at the Garden City Invitational.Garden City is the three-time defending champion in the Western Athletic Conference. But Hays High beat the Buffaloes – and the other three WAC schools as well – at last week’s Great Bend Invitational, where the Indians won the team title.Wichita Southeast meet&nbsp; Team scoring Wichita East 394, Derby 325, Wichita-Bishop Carroll 250, Winfield 193, Rose Hill 190, Hays High 158, Wichita Heights 151, Junction City 121, Dodge City 107, Wichita Northwest 88, Wichita Southeast 80, El Dorado 65, Wichita-Trinity 487, Liberal 12, Lost Springs-Centre

🏊‍♀️ HHS swimmers impress at large meet

A winter weather advisory has been issued for Hays until midnight.

Expect freezing fog, freezing drizzle and very light snow this evening in portions of central and western Kansas, including Ellis, Trego, Scott, Lane Ness and Rush counties, according to the National Weather Service.

Exposed surfaces are expected to become slick in spots.

Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744036593299.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostA winter weather advisory has been issued for Hays until midnight.Expect freezing fog, freezing drizzle and very light snow this evening in portions of central and western Kansas, including Ellis, Trego, Scott, Lane Ness and Rush counties, according to the National Weather Service.Exposed surfaces are expected to become slick in spots.Slow down and use caution while traveling. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Winter weather advisory in affect through midnight

DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Two U.S. service members and one American civilian were killed and three other people wounded in an ambush on Saturday by a lone member of the Islamic State group in central&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/syria">Syria</a>, the the U.S. military’s Central Command said.

The attack on U.S. troops in Syria is the first to inflict casualties since the fall of President Bashar Assad a year ago.

Central Command said in a post on X that as a matter of respect for the families and in accordance with Department of Defense policy, the identities of the service members will be withheld until 24 hours after their next of kin have been notified.

U.S. Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;posted on X: “Let it be known, if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you.”

The shooting took place near historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/syria-palmyra-ruins-historic-site-heritage-8f47dbe20c64a3de99cec50ad2a06680">Palmyra</a>, according to the state-run SANA news agency, which earlier said two members of Syria’s security force and several U.S. service members had been wounded. The casualties were taken by helicopter to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-military-base-syria-drone-attacks-0909cb5b2717963dfd6c4e93522c5ae8">al-Tanf garrison</a>&nbsp;near the border with Iraq and Jordan.

SANA said the attacker was killed, without providing further details.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attacker was a member of the Syrian security force.

The U.S. has hundreds of troops deployed in eastern Syria as part of a coalition fighting the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-caliphate-10th-anniversary-iraq-syria-e25a9ca36ef9c0ed8f743ac9584d50f9">Islamic State</a>&nbsp;group.

Last month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-coalition-islamic-state-79ceed4666aef43465221734fca899d5">Syria joined</a>&nbsp;the international coalition fighting against the IS as Damascus improves its relations with Western countries following the ouster of Assad&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-anniversary-assad-fall-a22746c8b8351b02d77cb62a6260c87e"></a>when insurgents captured his seat of power in Damascus.

The U.S. had no diplomatic relations with Syria under Assad, but ties have warmed since the fall of the five-decade Assad family rule. The interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, made a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-syria-sharaa-first-visit-cf01c5d6c9af7e47ec0bae585634d845">historic visit</a>&nbsp;to Washington last month where he held talks with President Donald Trump.

IS was defeated on the battlefield in Syria in 2019 but the group’s sleeper cells still carry out deadly attacks in the country. The United Nations says the group still has between&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-fighters-syria-iraq-875d5ee8a0978f3b28aeec210b33cd5f">5,000 and 7,000 fighters in Syria and Iraq</a>.

U.S. troops, which have maintained a presence in different parts of Syria — including Al-Tanf garrison in the central province of Homs — to train other forces as part of a broad campaign against IS, have been targeted in the past. One of the deadliest attacks occurred in 2019 in the northern town of Manbij when a blast killed two U.S. service members and two American civilians as well as others from Syria while conducting a patrol.

By SAMAR KASSABALI and BASSEM MROUEDAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Two U.S. service members and one American civilian were killed and three other people wounded in an ambush on Saturday by a lone member of the Islamic State group in central&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/syria">Syria</a>, the the U.S. military’s Central Command said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> addresses the ISIS attack on U.S. forces in Syria: “We mourn the loss of 3 great patriots in Syria… we pray for them, and their parents, and their loved ones… We will retaliate.” <a href="https://t.co/S3BA8zxKAt">pic.twitter.com/S3BA8zxKAt</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1999919394495906290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“We mourn the loss of three Great American Patriots in Syria, two soldiers, and one Civilian Interpreter. Likewise, we pray for the three injured soldiers who, it has just been confirmed, are doing well. This was an ISIS attack against the U.S., and Syria, in a very dangerous… <a href="https://t.co/uK3t5dlMfL">pic.twitter.com/uK3t5dlMfL</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1999917084424249674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The savage who perpetrated this attack was killed by partner forces. Let it be known, if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you. <a href="https://t.co/P7D9NrWpAL">https://t.co/P7D9NrWpAL</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1999882265355227392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The attack on U.S. troops in Syria is the first to inflict casualties since the fall of President Bashar Assad a year ago.Central Command said in a post on X that as a matter of respect for the families and in accordance with Department of Defense policy, the identities of the service members will be withheld until 24 hours after their next of kin have been notified.U.S. Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;posted on X: “Let it be known, if you target Americans — anywhere in the world — you will spend the rest of your brief, anxious life knowing the United States will hunt you, find you, and ruthlessly kill you.”The shooting took place near historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/photo-gallery/syria-palmyra-ruins-historic-site-heritage-8f47dbe20c64a3de99cec50ad2a06680">Palmyra</a>, according to the state-run SANA news agency, which earlier said two members of Syria’s security force and several U.S. service members had been wounded. The casualties were taken by helicopter to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-military-base-syria-drone-attacks-0909cb5b2717963dfd6c4e93522c5ae8">al-Tanf garrison</a>&nbsp;near the border with Iraq and Jordan.SANA said the attacker was killed, without providing further details.The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attacker was a member of the Syrian security force.The U.S. has hundreds of troops deployed in eastern Syria as part of a coalition fighting the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-caliphate-10th-anniversary-iraq-syria-e25a9ca36ef9c0ed8f743ac9584d50f9">Islamic State</a>&nbsp;group.Last month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-coalition-islamic-state-79ceed4666aef43465221734fca899d5">Syria joined</a>&nbsp;the international coalition fighting against the IS as Damascus improves its relations with Western countries following the ouster of Assad&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-anniversary-assad-fall-a22746c8b8351b02d77cb62a6260c87e"></a>when insurgents captured his seat of power in Damascus.The U.S. had no diplomatic relations with Syria under Assad, but ties have warmed since the fall of the five-decade Assad family rule. The interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, made a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-syria-sharaa-first-visit-cf01c5d6c9af7e47ec0bae585634d845">historic visit</a>&nbsp;to Washington last month where he held talks with President Donald Trump.IS was defeated on the battlefield in Syria in 2019 but the group’s sleeper cells still carry out deadly attacks in the country. The United Nations says the group still has between&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/islamic-state-fighters-syria-iraq-875d5ee8a0978f3b28aeec210b33cd5f">5,000 and 7,000 fighters in Syria and Iraq</a>.U.S. troops, which have maintained a presence in different parts of Syria — including Al-Tanf garrison in the central province of Homs — to train other forces as part of a broad campaign against IS, have been targeted in the past. One of the deadliest attacks occurred in 2019 in the northern town of Manbij when a blast killed two U.S. service members and two American civilians as well as others from Syria while conducting a patrol.____Mroue reported from Beirut.

Trump responds on Isis ambush that killed US soldiers in Syria

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.

Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.

The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.

Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765301569977.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Boys StateMANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ksbstate.org/sponsor">ksbstate.org/sponsor</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 550-6492.&nbsp; For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.For information about the 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, May 31, through Friday, June 5, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.