By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The iconic Blue Light Lady limestone sculpture created by Pete Felten is set to be moved from its location at 26th and Indian Trail to Historic Fort Hays.

The Elizabeth Polly&nbsp;Blue Light Lady statue sits in green space west of Indian Trail, south of Dairy Queen and east of Centennial Towers in Hays.

The statue has resided there since 1982. The Hays Arts Council spearheaded the statue's placement at the park.

Although there is a small playground area on the east side of Indian Trail, the statue sits alone and is often overlooked by visitors and even residents of Hays.

The Society of Friends of Historic Fort Hays has raised funds to move the statue to a site at the historic fort, where it will be more visible and can be used to tell Elizabeth Polly's story.

Elizabeth Polly was born in 1843. Her husband was a hospital steward at Fort Hays. She tended to&nbsp;cholera victims at Fort Hays during an outbreak in&nbsp;1867. She contracted cholera and died that same year.

"She was a courageous, young woman who sacrificed her life nursing soldiers suffering from cholera.&nbsp;While she has become a legend through her ghostly hauntings, her actual life is even more inspiring. 

"We&nbsp;want our visitors, adults and children, to leave admiring the woman. Our history is full of sacrifice, which&nbsp;provides us with enduring lessons of strength and perseverance," the Friends of the Fort said.

In addition to the statue, the Friends of the Historic Fort want to place a plaque on a pillar adjacent to it that tells the stories of Polly and Felten.

The fort is also home to Felten's Monarch of the Plains bison sculpture. Felten died on Feb. 4.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f8028923-65bd-48c2-b29d-d2a1cb622950">Read more on Felten's life and work HERE.</a>

Adam Conkey, Historic Fort Hays site administrator, said the fort is still in the planning and fundraising stages of the move.

The fort would like to locate the statue near the hospital site. Conkey said the hospital did not exist on that site when Polly was tending the sick. She would likely have cared for soldiers housed in hospital tents.&nbsp;

Polly was buried at the base of Sentinel Hill, but her remains were moved to the top of the hill, said Marla Matkin of Friends of the Fort, who also portrays Polly during reenactments.

"She knew the risk she took in nursing these young men," Matkin said, "but she felt she was providing a very needed service, and she was."

Polly was given a full military funeral service because of her dedication to caring for the soldiers, Matkin said.

There is a monument marking Polly's grave on Sentinel Hill, but since it is on private property, permission from the landowner would be required to visit.

Conkey said some of the Polly story has been told through family legend, and it's difficult to know what is accurate.

According to legend, Poly was buried in a blue dress. Locals have said for generations that they have seen her ghost, cloaked in a misty blue light, wandering the area.

The Friends of the Fort hope to have the statue moved in April and have a formal unveiling of the sculpture at its new site on Sept. 26, Matkin said. 80 Proof Alice will perform at the event.

The Friends of the Fort also has upcoming monthly events, as well as a July 4 celebration to honor the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The fort's period baseball team will play.

This year is also the 150th anniversary of the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Reinforcements from Fort Hays were called north to serve after the battle, Matkin said.

George Custer, who spent time at Fort Hays, was killed at the Battle of the Little Bighorn, during which Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes engaged the 7th Cavalry Regiment of the U.S. Army.

If you would like to donate to the Elizabeth Polly statue project, write a check to the Society of Friends of Historic Fort Hays, with "Elizabeth Polly statue" in the subject line, and mail it to Historic Fort Hays at 1472 U.S. 183 Alternate, Hays, KS 67601.

Matkin said the Friends of the Fort is always looking for more volunteers. If you are interested, you can visit the fort and talk with Conkey.

"It is a commemorative year," Matkin said. "It's a great time to see some of the stuff and learn some history and maybe get involved and become a part of it."

Felten's Blue Light Lady statue to find new home

TMP-Marian vs Sterling Thursday, Feb. 26th, 6 p.m Hays, Kan.

Radio:&nbsp;KHAZ (99.5)&nbsp;<a href="https://99kzcountry.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> <a href="https://mix103fm.com/"></a>Video:&nbsp;Monarchs Sports Network<a href="https://vcloud.hudl.com/broadcast/embed/3754999">&nbsp;CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

The TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs began postseason play at home, Thursday night, against the Sterling Blackbears.

Tip-off for the game is set for 6:00 p.m. The Hertz Rent-a-Car Pregame Show begins at 5:40 p.m. on 99.5 KZ Country.

🏀🎥 TMP-Marian Lady Monarchs open postseason play against Sterling

A man accused of shooting and killing his father and shooting his mother has been bound over for trial in Russell County.

Robert James, “Bobby” Torres was arrested after the shooting of&nbsp;49-year-old Deborah Torres of Russell and&nbsp;49-year-old Robert Torres of Russell on April 24. He is facing charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.

After a citizen report to 911, officers arrived at a home in the&nbsp;800 block of East Second Street in Russell and found Deborah Torres shot and Robert Torres dead.&nbsp;Deborah Torres was hospitalized.

Robert Torres was a tattoo artist at&nbsp;Fantasy Graphics Tattoo Studio in Hays.

“Bobby” Torres underwent a psychiatric evaluation and was found competent to stand trial in September, according to court records.

After a preliminary hearing, “Bobby” Torres was bound over for trial on Nov. 3, according to court records.

At his arraignment on Jan. 29, “Bobby” Torres stood mute, which means he did not enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. The court entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf, according to court records.

A jury trial has been scheduled to begin on May 5.

Torres is being held on a $1 million bond.

Russell man charged in shooting father, mother to go to trial

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved updating existing HVAC preventive maintenance service agreements during its Monday meeting.

The amendments proposed include HVAC equipment that was previously under warranty. The agreements are with Glassman Corp.

Rusty Lindsay, USD 489 director of buildings and grounds, said older systems were simpler and required fewer specialized tools, while newer systems are more complex with higher ongoing maintenance needs.

"We don't have the equipment, certification or the skill levels to work on some of the stuff that needs to be worked on," Lindsay said. "We're completely overwhelmed with everything. It's beyond what we can keep track of."

The service agreement includes equipment at Roosevelt Elementary and Hays Middle School, which will cost $61,000.

Board members Allen Park and Derek Yarmer questioned whether the district was getting the best price and whether it should have been bid out. Ron Wilson said the original agreement, which runs until December 2029, was bid out at the state level.

A motion was made with Craig Pallister, Ken Brooks and Ruth Ruder voting in favor and Park and Yarmer voting not in favor. It did not pass.

Jayme Goetz excused herself due to a conflict of interest from the discussion, and board president Curt Vajnar was absent.

A motion was made to revise the original motion to include a districtwide request for proposals for preventive maintenance, with the request to be brought back no later than the last board meeting in November.

The revised motion, which included Roosevelt and Hays Middle School maintenance contracts through Dec. 31, passed unanimously. 

The board plans to rebid the HVAC maintenance contracts for all buildings, including the high school, before the end of the year.

A Glassman representative said they would hold their bid price.

District director, administrator contracts

There was a failed motion to push district director contract extensions back to the March 9 meeting. Pallister, Brooks and Ruder voted no, while Park, Goetz and Yarmer voted yes.

A motion to extend the contracts then failed. Pallister, Ruder and Brooks voted for the motion, while Park, Goetz and Yarmer voted against.&nbsp;

The contracts will come back on the next meeting's agenda.

The board approved a motion to push back contract extensions for district administrators, such as principals and superintendents, until its next meeting on March 9. Brooks and Ruder voted no, Goetz, Pallister, Park and Yarmer voted yes.

Goetz said it was important that Vajnar was present for the vote.

The board also heard an update on Early Childhood Connections and its programs.

Hays BOE approves HVAC contract; admin. contracts on hold

UPDATE: Ellis County Sheriff seeks public's help in finding missing juvenile 

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The Hays City Commission this afternoon will consider setting dates for public hearings of two requested economic development incentives for a planned 24/7 Travel Plaza and convenience store north of Interstate 70.

Commissioners will also vote on two rezoning requests on East 27th Street.&nbsp;

The first request is to rezone property at 2460 E. 27th St. from an agricultural district to a light industrial district. L&amp;A Enterprises owns the property. The owner wants the zoning change to expand services.

The second rezoning request is for the adjacent property at 2470 E. 27th St., owned by Josh Ziegler, to change the designation from general commercial district to&nbsp;light industrial district. Ziegler owns and operates&nbsp;<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>&nbsp;on&nbsp;the property.

A report from&nbsp;Holly Dickman,&nbsp;water conservation specialist, will update the city's water conservation program and results from 2025.

Eric Burks, president of Fort Hays Tech North Central and Diana Baumann, vice-president of finance and Hays operations for&nbsp;Fort Hays Tech North Central, will present the&nbsp;Big Creek&nbsp;Technical Training Center annual report.

The complete Feb. 26 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_02262026-1597">here</a>.

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays city commissioners to talk 24/7 Travel Plaza progress today

It was a record-high, warm Wednesday in Hays.

Official numbers from the K-State Agricultural Center show the temperature on Feb. 25 reached 78 degrees. 

That surpasses the previous record high for the date of 76 degrees set in&nbsp;2024 and again in 2025.

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/4b12fd7e-050c-4ec6-bd4e-15017e40c505">three-day forecast</a> calls for a wintry mix Sunday into Monday.

Record high warm Wednesday in Hays; wintry mix possible on Sunday

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

How to submit an obituary to the Hays Post

Please email obituaries to haysobits@eaglemedia.com and include your phone number.&nbsp;

Please allow up to 24 hours from the submission of the obituary for it to be posted on the Hays Post.&nbsp;

If you have questions, please contact Scarlett Deutscher at 785-301-2211.&nbsp;

If you have an issue outside of business hours or your obit has not been published within 24 hours, please email <a href="mailto:hayspost@eaglemedia.com" target="_blank">hayspost@eaglemedia.com</a> or call Cristina Janney, Hays Post editor, at 785-301-2077.&nbsp;

Recent obituaries, how to submit an obituary

ELLIS — The Ellis High School Alumni Association is thrilled to announce the launch of the Railroader Legacy Brick Program — creating a beautiful new Alumni Brick Courtyard at the front of the EHS Alumni Museum in Ellis.

This welcoming space will feature a relaxing seating area, a flagpole, and stunning engraved legacy bricks honoring the proud tradition of Ellis High School.

Now is your chance to leave your mark! Honor an EHS graduate, celebrate your class year, recognize a favorite teacher, memorialize a loved one, or show appreciation for USD 388 employees, families, and community supporters. Each engraved brick will become a lasting tribute and a permanent part of EHS history for generations to come.

Brick sales are open now so construction can be completed in time for the 125th anniversary celebration this May.

Brick Options: • 4" x 8" Brick — $50 includes 3 lines of personalized text (up to 20 characters per line)

• 8" x 8" Brick — $100 includes 6 lines of personalized text (up to 20 characters per line)

The legacy brick order deadline is April 1: <a href="https://donate.brickmarkers.com/ellis">donate.brickmarkers.com/ellis</a>

Questions or information contact Sylvia Deutscher at ellishighschoolalumni@gmail.com.

Join us in building a space that celebrates Railroader pride — yesterday, today, and for generations to come!

Be part of Ellis High School history with Railroader Legacy Brick Program

Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://engg.k-state.edu/">Carl R. Ice College of Engineering</a>&nbsp;will recognize 10 alumni for outstanding early-to-mid-career achievements, honoring them with the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://engg.k-state.edu/alumni-partners/professional-progress-award">Professional Progress Award</a>&nbsp;during the college's annual Seaton Society Award Celebration on Friday, March 6.

Recipients of the award are selected based on professional accomplishments, service to society and/or the engineering profession, support of the college, and the promise of continued success. Each awardee was nominated by their respective department heads and confirmed by Bradley A. Kramer, interim dean of engineering.

2026 Professional Progress Award honorees

Hale Sloan, '10,&nbsp;Hays, holds both his bachelor's and master's degrees in biological and agricultural engineering from K-State. After beginning his career in the Austin, Texas, metro area, Sloan moved to Hays in 2017, where he founded Sloan Engineering and Consulting. As a licensed professional engineer in Kansas and Texas, Sloan and his firm provide civil engineering design and consulting services across the state and are currently expanding their offerings to include construction materials testing. Alongside his professional work, he is an active community volunteer and leader, with involvement in the Hays Noon Rotary Club — where he previously served as president and received the Outstanding Club Service Award — as well as the Ellis County Rural Water District No. 1C board, Western Cooperative Electric and his local Methodist church. Sloan also co-founded and currently serves as president of a nonprofit foundation supporting the Kansas State University Rugby Club. Sloan and his wife, Jenna, have three children. When not at his firm or volunteering, he enjoys farming and ranching with his family.

Kim Bartak, '06,&nbsp;Leawood, holds a bachelor's degree in computer engineering and electrical engineering from K-State and an MBA from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Bartak serves as a corporate change manager for Burns &amp; McDonnell, leading enterprise-wide initiatives to enhance organizational effectiveness, strengthen collaboration and support long-term growth through integrated, future-ready business systems. Previously, she served as a people manager and project manager for 1898 &amp; Co., where she led consulting teams for utility and technology clients across the U.S., and at Honeywell FM&amp;T, where she gained foundational experience in engineering, manufacturing, quality and leadership. Bartak is passionate about mentoring others and helping teams navigate and embrace change. An active volunteer, she supports organizations such as the United Way, MathCounts, the Society of Women Engineers and Alpha Chi Omega sorority, where she has held multiple leadership roles. She recently earned a Women in Leadership Certificate from the University of California, Riverside, and she is a lifelong fan of K-State sports.

Jason Humphrey, '08,&nbsp;Topeka, holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering with the nuclear option from K-State and an MBA from Baker University. Humphrey began his career as a power plant engineer at Evergy's Lawrence Energy Center before moving into leadership roles. While with Evergy and its predecessor companies, he has lived in Kansas City, Emporia, Wichita, and Topeka, holding several positions — including plant manager and regional director of power plants, as well as corporate roles such as assistant treasurer. In 2023, Humphrey became the vice president of development, focused on building renewable and conventional power plants to support Evergy's 1.7 million customers in the eastern third of Kansas and the western third of Missouri. He is on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Topeka and previously served on the board of the Downtown Topeka Foundation. He and his wife, Amanda, have two daughters — Quinn and Piper.

Chris Kearney, '05,&nbsp;Orlando, Florida,&nbsp;holds a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering. After graduation, Kearney moved to Florida and began working at the global engineering, design and consulting firm GRG, now EXP. He now leads the firm's hospitality efforts, holding more than 20 years of experience assisting world-renowned hospitality and casino-industry clients. Along with complex building design, Kearney has a passion for sustainability. A recognized thought leader who provides sustainable design and construction solutions to increase efficiency, Kearney returns to K-State each year to recruit for the architectural engineering department and previously served on the department's advisory council. Kearney and his wife, Christy, have three kids — Ian, Aiden and Isabella.

<a></a>Mark Neier, '09,&nbsp;Olathe, earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in industrial engineering from K-State. Neier serves as the global operate technology asset senior manager for Deloitte, where he's responsible for starting and managing new technology assets and solutions for businesses in more than 150 countries and territories. Additionally, Neier helped start Deloitte's digital supply networks business, guiding numerous industrial products and aerospace and defense companies through their supply chain transformation journeys. Previously, he served as the associate vice president of assets and products for Deloitte's U.S. supply chain and network operations. Neier is passionate about giving back and staying connected to K-State, having served two terms on the industrial engineering advisory council and recruiting more than 40 engineers to Deloitte from K-State as the company's recruiting lead. Neier and his wife, Kinley, have two children — Olivia and Andrew.

Renee Roesser, '06, '09,&nbsp;San Antonio, Texas,&nbsp;earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering from K-State. Beginning her career at the National Security Agency as an intern in 2005, Roesser joined the agency full time in 2006. Holding a series of progressively responsible roles in design, construction, operations and maintenance, her assignments have spanned multiple locations — including Fort Meade, Maryland; Honolulu, Hawaii; and San Antonio, Texas. In 2022, Roesser transitioned from federal service to the private sector, assuming the role of datacenter operations manager at Microsoft. In this capacity, she leads critical environment and IT operations for two data centers, ensuring operational excellence, reliability and compliance. In recognition of her impact, she was selected to participate in Microsoft's Advanced Leadership Program in 2024. Roesser remains actively engaged with her alma mater, serving as the K-State alumni coordinator for the San Antonio chapter. She and her husband, Saunders, have two sons — Corbin and Bodie.

Travis Rogers, '06,&nbsp;Doha, Qatar, holds a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering and serves as production manager for Ras Laffan Petrochemicals at Chevron Phillips Chemical Company. Rogers is currently leading operations for a $6 billion world-scale site, scheduled to begin in early 2027, that will include the Middle East's largest ethane cracker and two of the world's largest polyethylene reactors. Since beginning his career with Chevron Phillips Chemical in 2006, Rogers has held progressive leadership roles across the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Qatar. His experience spans process engineering, operations management and process safety, including oversight of the company's risk management programs. Rogers has played a pivotal role in the successful commercialization of advanced polymer technologies and the safe ramp-up of complex manufacturing assets. A dedicated mentor and advocate for operational excellence, Rogers is recognized for building high-performing teams and promoting a culture of safety and innovation. He and his wife, Jeanette, have three children — Lucy, Elizabeth and Maxwell.

Ryan Summerskill, '08,&nbsp;Shawnee, holds a bachelor's degree in computer science. After working at Surface Systems and Instruments in Manhattan during college and as a software engineer at Garmin, Summerskill joined Veritas Prime — a premier technology and professional services company focused on payroll and human capital management services — in its startup phase, fulfilling his goal of building a software development organization from scratch. Now, he serves as senior global director of products, leading a global business unit comprising engineers, designers and product management from the U.S., India, Peru and Argentina. Summerskill has remained connected to K-State, serving on the computer science department's advisory board since 2015 and volunteering as a senior officer with the Civil Air Patrol. He and his wife, Abby, have two children — Amelia and Zander.

Nichole Waring, '05,&nbsp;Overland Park, earned a bachelor's degree in construction science and management from K-State. She is a senior project manager and employee-owner at McCownGordon Construction, where she oversees a diverse portfolio of new-build and renovation projects, including libraries, museums, aquatic centers, nonprofit facilities, corporate offices and data centers. Known for leading high-performing teams and managing complex projects with precision, Waring has delivered award-winning work recognized by the American Institute of Architects, Kansas City Business Journal and the Builders' Association of Greater Kansas City. Twice nominated for Project Manager of the Year by the American Subcontractors Association of Kansas City, she has played a key role in securing some of the firm's most impactful projects. A graduate of Leadership Overland Park, Waring remains active in the community, volunteering with organizations such as Operation Breakthrough, Harvesters, Ronald McDonald House and Resurrection, a United Methodist Church. She and her husband have three children.

Allyson Wetter,'09,&nbsp;Silver Lake, earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from K-State and currently serves as senior director of safety and performance management for Evergy. A licensed professional engineer in Kansas, Wetter leads teams responsible for safety and training; vehicle and equipment fleet operations; and the construction, operation and maintenance of facilities. Wetter began her career at Evergy 18 years ago as an environmental intern and substation civil engineer and has since held numerous leadership roles supporting electric grid planning, construction and storm restoration efforts. Passionate about community vitality and well-being through reliable electricity, she also volunteers at events encouraging children to explore STEM careers and serves on the board of directors of the Greater Kansas Chapter of the American Red Cross. Wetter and her husband, Daryl, have two children — Perry and Ryland.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays K-State outstanding alumni recognized for early-career success in engineering

The last two K-State Extension Crop Talk webinars will be held each Tuesday at 12 noon to 1 p.m. on March 3 and 10.

You register for them only once, and then you will receive an email with the zoom and YouTube link. If you happen to miss it, you can go back and listen to the recording and view the presenters' slides as well.

These Crop Talk webinars are for growers in northcentral and northwest areas and counties of Kansas and are brought to you by the Extension agents of those areas.

On March 3, Rodrigo Onofre, Extension row crop pathologist, will discuss "Fungicide Applications in Corn and Sorghum." The last crop talk webinar will be March 10 with Anthony Zukoff, Extension entomologist, highlighting "Insects to Watch for in the Field this Growing Season."

To register do an internet search for KSU Crop Talk webinar and the <a href="https://www.wkrec.org/events/croptalk/">link</a> should pull up. Once you have registered, you will receive an email with the zoom and YouTube link to join us each Tuesday at 12 noon to 1 pm. on March 3 and 10.

If you have questions contact Stacy Campbell, at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.

Fungicide applications, insects are topics of March 'Crop Talk' Extension webinars

DODGE CITY — United Wireless Arena, managed by&nbsp;VenuWorks, is excited to announce&nbsp;Flatland Cavalry as the official&nbsp;2026 Dodge City Days Concert on&nbsp;Saturday, July 25. Doors will open at&nbsp;6:30 p.m. on July 25 and the show will start at 7:30 p.m.

The pre-sale for FLATLAND CAVALRY begins Thursday, March 5 at 10:00 a.m.,&nbsp;ending at 10:00 p.m., while the public on sale starts Friday, March 6 at 10:00 a.m.

For the past decade, Flatland Cavalry has built a reputation as “one of the most dynamic&nbsp;presences in country music” (Rolling Stone) with their signature “easy on the ears, heavy on&nbsp;the heart” sound. In 2024, the sextet celebrated 10 years together with Flatland Forever, an&nbsp;acclaimed album that pays tribute to their journey, revisiting fan favorites while introducing&nbsp;new songs that showcase how far they’ve come. 

The past year has been full of milestones for&nbsp;the Nashville and Texas-based band. 

They earned their first ACM Award nomination for Group&nbsp;of the Year, achieved their first RIAA Gold certification for their breakout single “A Life&nbsp;Where We Work Out,” and made their mark in film and television with contributions to the&nbsp;Twisters and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds &amp; Snakes soundtracks, as well as&nbsp;featured placements on Yellowstone and Landman. 

Their relentless touring schedule reached&nbsp;new heights, including sold-out headline performances at Fort Worth’s Dickies Arena and the&nbsp;legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre. 

Since first emerging in 2014, Flatland Cavalry has racked&nbsp;up seven #1 singles on Texas Country Radio and amassed more than 500 million streams.&nbsp;Along the way, they’ve shared the stage with Willie Nelson, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson,&nbsp;Jordan Davis, Midland, and more — proving that their brand of storytelling and musicianship&nbsp;resonates far beyond their roots. 

Flatland Cavalry is Cleto Cordero (vocals, acoustic guitar),&nbsp;Jason Albers (drums, percussion), Jonathan Saenz (bass), Reid Dillon (electric guitar), Wesley&nbsp;Hall (fiddle), and Adam Gallegos (piano, organ, keys, mandolin, banjo).

Tickets for Flatland Cavalry will go on sale Friday, March 6 at 10:00 a.m. CST. Tickets can&nbsp;be purchased at the United Wireless Arena box office or online through Ticketmaster.com.

Ticket prices are $84 or $64 for reserved seating depending on location, plus applicable fees&nbsp;and taxes. The floor will be general admission, standing only. 

United Wireless Arena is an&nbsp;exclusive Ticketmaster facility and cannot guarantee tickets purchased as resale or through a&nbsp;third-party vendor. 

Doors will open one hour before showtime. 

Handicapped accessible seating&nbsp;must be arranged directly through the United Wireless Arena Ticket Office. 

United Wireless&nbsp;Arena has a clear bag policy in place. Please check our <a href="https://www.unitedwirelessarena.com/">website</a> for more details.

'Flatland Cavalary' brings signature sound as official Dodge City Days concert

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

By JORDAN EDWARDS Fort Hays Tech | Northwest

GOODLAND — Fort Hays Tech | Northwest will host a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony on Friday, February 27, at 1 p.m. (MT) to celebrate the official opening of the Schears Family Center for Innovation and Design and the Tiny Tigers Child Care Facility.

The event will take place at 1407 Eustis Avenue in Goodland and is open to the public. Community members, donors, partners, and supporters are invited to attend and help mark this important milestone for the college.

The ceremony will honor the Schears Family for their generosity and lasting impact on Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. 

The Schears Family Center for Innovation and Design represents a significant investment in hands-on learning, creativity, and workforce preparation, providing students with modern spaces designed to support collaboration, innovation, and technical excellence.

Ben Schears, FHSU Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development and former president of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, said the college has played a foundational role in his family.

“With all five of our kids having graduated from Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, Rachel teaching math, and as a former employee myself, the college has had a fundamental impact on each of our lives,” Schears said. “Our entire family is humbled by the honor. We love the Tech and are thrilled to see the new childcare center making a difference.”

The opening of the Tiny Tigers Child Care Facility further strengthens the college’s commitment to student success and community support. The facility will serve as a learning environment for students in the Child Care Specialist program while also providing high-quality childcare services for families in the region.

“This project reflects our commitment to remove barriers, expand opportunity, and create spaces that support both education and community needs,” said President Dr. Corey Isbell. “We are grateful to the Schears family and all who helped make this vision a reality.”

The ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony will include remarks, a formal ribbon cutting, and opportunities for attendees to tour the new facilities.

For more information about the event or Fort Hays Tech | Northwest, visit <a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqugsOgS21wCFwNLUBKgCqkA-3DGhUA_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOqvt2CQH4kxOaFChik5xVfsLl5bIW1g-2FXg8-2FYNmd4Wyn1VzaGMb03kI0kRxQYzQQKHS6Kp77y4YvC-2BuPEg4VtkJJarJ9kPDCs5R5sTTnDYWgl7NUq2K-2F3tLU3aV-2Bb32CtCazaaFMFcGSLrfZHfR0XRKHTYBOE2QlMaWj1tbneYF-2FbwMyEfE98y8s1LYmswtUTyM-2F1Lde3K2yaFafhrUr59KYFieUoosDySFQXlkPAxj82yC1EHP-2BXu2rzhbyC3Y1A">www.fhnw.edu</a>

Fort Hays Tech|NW to host ribbon cutting, ceremony honoring Schears family

Kansas Scholastic Chess Association tourney in Hays on Feb. 28

Informational meeting set for Tuesday for 100 Who Care

The items are arriving fast and furious for the Eagle On-Line Auction at Hays Post.

&nbsp;If you would like to get in on the action of this year’s online auction, click on the link below.&nbsp;

Dive into a digital treasure trove of savings with the Eagle Radio Online Auction!

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/eagle-radio-auction-descriptions-of-items">Click here&nbsp;to get registered, view items and bid.</a>

Bid now on an expansive collection ranging from home essentials to tantalizing restaurant gift cards, and valuable services from esteemed local companies and save.

 Whether you're seeking something specific or just browsing for unexpected finds, our vast selection promises both variety and value. 

The Eagle Radio online auction — where saving money is just a click away!

Eagle Radio Auction live now!

The City of Hays is reminding residents that pet registrations for 2026 are currently open.

Per city ordinance, all dogs, cats, and non-venomous constrictor snakes exceeding six feet in length must be licensed annually.

To complete the registration, owners of dogs and cats must provide a current rabies vaccination record.

Owners of qualifying constrictor snakes are required to provide proof of microchipping.

“A pet tag is one of the most effective ways to ensure a lost or missing animal returns home,” said Community Service Officer Nikki Hausler. “When an officer or a citizen finds a pet wearing a city license, it allows us to quickly identify the owner and facilitate a safe reunion, often avoiding a trip to the shelter.”

The 2026 licensing fees are $5 for spayed or neutered dogs and cats, while the fee for unaltered pets is $25.

Constrictor snakes exceeding six feet may be registered for $5.

Additionally, owners of breeds classified by ordinance as dangerous, including Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, or Pit Bull mixes, must pay a $50 registration fee in addition to the standard licensing costs.

Residents have until March 1 to register pets currently in their possession before late fees are applied.

Unregistered pets will incur a penalty of $10 per month or partial month past the deadline, with a maximum late fee of $50.

“We’ve worked to make this process as efficient as possible for our residents,” said City Clerk Jami Briet. “The registration can be completed quickly at City Hall, and our staff is ready to assist owners in getting their 2026 tags handled before the March deadline.”

Licenses can be obtained in person at the City Clerk’s Office, 1507 Main St.

The office is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, residents may contact the City Clerk’s Office at (785) 628-7300 or visit <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/">HaysUSA.com</a>.

City of Hays pet registration deadline approaching

BUNKER HILL — The tradition continues as Smoky Hills PBS will provide live coverage of the 2026 Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Class 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships. 

The event is begins at 9 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27 through the semi-finals, and continues Sat., Feb. 28 at 9 a.m.&nbsp;at Gross Memorial Coliseum on the campus of Fort Hays State University, Hays.

Smoky Hills PBS will once again showcase both boys' and girls' competitions, continuing a long-standing commitment to local sports and its tradition of bringing live broadcast coverage of high school sports to viewers across central and western Kansas.

Every match will be broadcast live, co-hosted by Eagle Radio's Mike Holliday. You can find&nbsp;3-2-1A and Hays High School state wrestling results on <a href="https://hayspost.com/">Hays Post</a>.&nbsp;

A rebroadcast of the championship finals will air on&nbsp;Sunday, March 1&nbsp;at noon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Our production crew and our many volunteers take great pride in delivering live, reliable coverage of this championship every year," said Les Kinderknecht, senior producer/director at Smoky Hills PBS. "Covering the 3-2-1A State Wrestling Championships is about celebrating the athletes, the schools, and the communities that support them."

3-2-1A state wrestling championships to air live on Smoky Hills PBS

Get your tickets today and then join us&nbsp;as we kick off the Hays Concert Series with a special Lovegrass Music Festival Fundraiser on Saturday, March 14 at the Hays Community Theatre.

Tickets are on sale now at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://us.list-manage.com/RcpvPPY0b4A?e=ad2f5727f7&amp;c2id=464001e5eac1dfb0bc25eb093087c2fd">https://www.lovegrassmusicfestival.com/benefit</a>

This special night will feature two incredible bands who are not only entertaining but also special to Lovegrass —&nbsp;80 Proof Alice&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rudy and the Lost Boys&nbsp;— plus a silent auction, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres, all in support of Lovegrass Music Festival.

Your attendance helps us raise funds for our upcoming summer concert series, continue our mission of bringing bluegrass arts to rural Kansas, and support our capstone Lovegrass Music Festival this August.&nbsp;

Doors at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. at the&nbsp; Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. 8th, Hays. Suggested donation is $25.

Come enjoy great music, support the arts, and help keep bluegrass thriving in Kansas. We can’t wait to see you there!

Lovegrass Concert Series fundraiser is March 14 in Hays; tickets now available online 

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas city man faces multiple felony charges&nbsp;in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred during an attempted home invasion in 2024.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2814/Perkins-Redacted-Complaint">Sheldon Perkins</a>, 34,&nbsp;faces 2nd Degree Felony Murder, 1st Degree Attempted Robbery, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, 1st Degree Burglary, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2815/Perkins-Redacted-PC">According to court records</a>, Kansas City detectives determined Perekins allegedly recruited two other men, including his brother, to help him rob the occupants of a Kansas City residence on August 26, 2024. The three men forced their way into the home, where an altercation ensued with one of the occupants of the residence.&nbsp;

During the struggle, a firearm belonging to one of the intruders became loose. The second occupant of the home picked up the firearm and fired at the men. The gunfire killed one of the intruders and injured the other two, including the defendant, who fled the scene and checked into a nearby hospital.&nbsp;

The occupant who fired the shots called 911 to report the attempted robbery and shooting.

When Kansas City police arrived at the residence, they found one victim outside the home with gunshot wounds to the back. He was transported to a nearby hospital and determined to be paralyzed as a result of the shooting. Inside the residence, officers found a second victim who was deceased.&nbsp;

DNA testing of the firearms recovered at the crime scene found the Perkin’s DNA on two of the firearms.

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