For the month of February 2025, the Ellis Police Department responded to 95 calls for service, conducted 57 traffic stops, and issued 3 traffic citations. 1 out of the 3 citations were due to speeding. The alleged speed was 9 miles per over the limit. The other citations were issued due to either suspended driving privileges, no driver’s license, or expired registrations and insurance.

The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in 3 adult arrests.

The following adults were arrested in February by the Ellis Police Department:

On 02/04/2025, Alfred Walls was arrested on suspicion of Felony Theft. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

On 02/04/2025, Guadalupe Walls was arrested on suspicion of Felony Theft. She was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

On 02/08/2025, Corinne Karlin was arrested on suspicion of Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint. She was booked into the Ellis County Jail.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.

The Ellis Police Department is hiring for the position of Police Officer! (entry or lateral transfer) If you have any questions or want to obtain an application, you can either email me directly at asmith@cityofellisks.gov or visit the City’s Website at www.ellis.ks.us/contact-us/ and scroll to the employment opportunities section. The City of Ellis is an equal opportunity employer that offers great benefits including KPERS and medical insurance!

In February 2025, Ellis City Council passed ordinance 1499, allowing the operation of golf carts on city streets. To read the full text of the ordinance and view an example of the inspection sheet, you can go to the web address below and scroll to the bottom of the page.

The Clerk's Office has temporary tags available until the permanent tags are in. Please call dispatch at (785) 625-1011 or our office at (785) 726-4462 to see if an officer is available to assist you. If we are busy or tied up on another call, we will get back to you as soon as possible! If you call the office and we don't answer, please leave a voicemail. If you don't receive a return call within an hour, please call dispatch.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741891150509.jpeg" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>For the month of February 2025, the Ellis Police Department responded to 95 calls for service, conducted 57 traffic stops, and issued 3 traffic citations. 1 out of the 3 citations were due to speeding. The alleged speed was 9 miles per over the limit. The other citations were issued due to either suspended driving privileges, no driver’s license, or expired registrations and insurance.The Ellis Police Department also conducted several felony and misdemeanor investigations, resulting in 3 adult arrests.The following adults were arrested in February by the Ellis Police Department:On 02/04/2025, Alfred Walls was arrested on suspicion of Felony Theft. He was booked into the Ellis County Jail.On 02/04/2025, Guadalupe Walls was arrested on suspicion of Felony Theft. She was booked into the Ellis County Jail.On 02/08/2025, Corinne Karlin was arrested on suspicion of Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint. She was booked into the Ellis County Jail.All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.The Ellis Police Department is hiring for the position of Police Officer! (entry or lateral transfer) If you have any questions or want to obtain an application, you can either email me directly at asmith@cityofellisks.gov or visit the City’s Website at www.ellis.ks.us/contact-us/ and scroll to the employment opportunities section. The City of Ellis is an equal opportunity employer that offers great benefits including KPERS and medical insurance!In February 2025, Ellis City Council passed ordinance 1499, allowing the operation of golf carts on city streets. To read the full text of the ordinance and view an example of the inspection sheet, you can go to the web address below and scroll to the bottom of the page.https://ellis.ks.us/city-government/The Clerk's Office has temporary tags available until the permanent tags are in. Please call dispatch at (785) 625-1011 or our office at (785) 726-4462 to see if an officer is available to assist you. If we are busy or tied up on another call, we will get back to you as soon as possible! If you call the office and we don't answer, please leave a voicemail. If you don't receive a return call within an hour, please call dispatch.Thank you all for your support!-Chief Smith

Ellis Police Department February 2025 Activity Report

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Nearly all of western Kansas, including Ellis County, is in a Red Flag Warning today, issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City.

The warning is for 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday as high wind and low relative humidity combine for critical fire conditions.

Southerly wind gusts of up to 45 mph are predicted with a temperature reaching up to 79 degrees in Hays.

As of March 11, the most recent weekly drought monitor shows nearly all of Ellis County in moderate drought. The very southwest corner of the county is abnormally dry.&nbsp;

Hays has received&nbsp;1.71 inches of precipitation so far this year, according to the official record at the K-State Agricultural Research Center. The 158-year&nbsp; accumulative average precipitation is 2.46 inches by the end of March.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741881115459.png" alt="National Weather Service, Dodge City" />
 <figcaption>National Weather Service, Dodge City</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostNearly all of western Kansas, including Ellis County, is in a Red Flag Warning today, issued by the National Weather Service in Dodge City.The warning is for 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday as high wind and low relative humidity combine for critical fire conditions.Southerly wind gusts of up to 45 mph are predicted with a temperature reaching up to 79 degrees in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741880208025.jpeg" alt="U.S. Drought Monitor" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Drought Monitor</figcaption>
 </figure>As of March 11, the most recent weekly drought monitor shows nearly all of Ellis County in moderate drought. The very southwest corner of the county is abnormally dry.&nbsp;Hays has received&nbsp;1.71 inches of precipitation so far this year, according to the official record at the K-State Agricultural Research Center. The 158-year&nbsp; accumulative average precipitation is 2.46 inches by the end of March.

Ellis County, western Kansas under Red Flag Warning today

MANHATTAN — More than 1,300 students completed degree requirements from Kansas State University in fall 2024, while more than 4,600 Kansas State University students earned semester honors for their academic performance.

The university awarded approximately 900 bachelor's degrees, 250 master's degrees and 80 doctorates. Several students earned multiple degrees. Students with exceptionally high grade point averages received honors for outstanding academic performance: summa cum laude for students with a grade point average of 3.95 or above, magna cum laude for those with a grade point average of 3.85 to 3.949, and cum laude for students with GPAs of 3.75 to 3.849.Students earning GPAs for the semester of 3.75 or above on at least 12 graded credit hours received semester honors along with commendations from their deans. The honors are also recorded on their permanent academic records.

Albert:&nbsp;Michael Bahr, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;

Ellinwood:&nbsp;Alexa Straub, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; Ashtin Klepper, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;

Great Bend:&nbsp;Brynn Boxberger, Bachelor of Science; Jesus Sanchez, Bachelor of Science; Lawton Smith, Bachelor of Science; Wittney Hammeke, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;

Hoisington:&nbsp;Braxton Donovan, Master of Science; Chandler Blackwell, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude;

Ellis:&nbsp;Lyla Meserve, Bachelor of Science;

Hays:&nbsp;Makinsey Schlautman, Bachelor of Science; Michael Stecklein, Bachelor of Science;

Quinter:&nbsp;Addie Briggs, Bachelor of Arts;

Mankato:&nbsp;Samuel Underwood, Bachelor of Science;

Dighton:&nbsp;Tyler Schmalzried, Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude;

Lincoln:&nbsp;Jillian Canterbury, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude;

Lenora: Sarah David, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;

Norton: Alexander Atkins, Master of Arts in Teaching; Alexander Auker, Bachelor of Science; Brandon Vacura, Bachelor of Science; Jessica Ambrosier, Master of Arts in Teaching;

Larned: Halle Barker, Bachelor of Science;

Phillipsburg: Kylie Saville, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration;

Scott City: Christian Wright, Bachelor of Science; Claire Rumford, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; Jacy Rose, Bachelor of Science;

Hoxie: Alexia Torluemke, Bachelor of Science;

Goodland: Isaac Rodriguez, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; Liz Salazar, Master of Science;

Kensington: Iva Rust, Bachelor of Science;

St. John: Quincy Smith, Master of Business Administration;

Colby: Jillian Niblock, Bachelor of Science; Sophia Austin, Bachelor of Science;

Oakley: Jarrett Sporer, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration;

WaKeeney: Andrew Mejia, Bachelor of Science;

The full lists of graduates and semester honor recipients&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/index.html">are available online.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1583029965907.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>K-State News ServiceMANHATTAN — More than 1,300 students completed degree requirements from Kansas State University in fall 2024, while more than 4,600 Kansas State University students earned semester honors for their academic performance.The university awarded approximately 900 bachelor's degrees, 250 master's degrees and 80 doctorates. Several students earned multiple degrees. Students with exceptionally high grade point averages received honors for outstanding academic performance: summa cum laude for students with a grade point average of 3.95 or above, magna cum laude for those with a grade point average of 3.85 to 3.949, and cum laude for students with GPAs of 3.75 to 3.849.Students earning GPAs for the semester of 3.75 or above on at least 12 graded credit hours received semester honors along with commendations from their deans. The honors are also recorded on their permanent academic records.Area graduates and recipients include:<h2>Barton&nbsp;</h2>Albert:&nbsp;Michael Bahr, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;Ellinwood:&nbsp;Alexa Straub, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; Ashtin Klepper, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;Great Bend:&nbsp;Brynn Boxberger, Bachelor of Science; Jesus Sanchez, Bachelor of Science; Lawton Smith, Bachelor of Science; Wittney Hammeke, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;Hoisington:&nbsp;Braxton Donovan, Master of Science; Chandler Blackwell, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude;<h2>Ellis&nbsp;</h2>Ellis:&nbsp;Lyla Meserve, Bachelor of Science;Hays:&nbsp;Makinsey Schlautman, Bachelor of Science; Michael Stecklein, Bachelor of Science;<h2>Gove</h2>Quinter:&nbsp;Addie Briggs, Bachelor of Arts;<h2>Jewell&nbsp;</h2>Mankato:&nbsp;Samuel Underwood, Bachelor of Science;<h2>Lane&nbsp;</h2>Dighton:&nbsp;Tyler Schmalzried, Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude;<h2>Lincoln&nbsp;</h2>Lincoln:&nbsp;Jillian Canterbury, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude;<h2>Norton</h2>Lenora: Sarah David, Bachelor of Science, Summa Cum Laude;Norton: Alexander Atkins, Master of Arts in Teaching; Alexander Auker, Bachelor of Science; Brandon Vacura, Bachelor of Science; Jessica Ambrosier, Master of Arts in Teaching;<h2>Pawnee&nbsp;</h2>Larned: Halle Barker, Bachelor of Science;<h2>Phillips&nbsp;</h2>Phillipsburg: Kylie Saville, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration;<h2>Scott&nbsp;</h2>Scott City: Christian Wright, Bachelor of Science; Claire Rumford, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; Jacy Rose, Bachelor of Science;<h2>Sheridan</h2>Hoxie: Alexia Torluemke, Bachelor of Science;<h2>Sherman&nbsp;</h2>Goodland: Isaac Rodriguez, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; Liz Salazar, Master of Science;<h2>Smith</h2>Kensington: Iva Rust, Bachelor of Science;<h2>Stafford&nbsp;</h2>St. John: Quincy Smith, Master of Business Administration;<h2>Thomas&nbsp;</h2>Colby: Jillian Niblock, Bachelor of Science; Sophia Austin, Bachelor of Science;Oakley: Jarrett Sporer, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration;<h2>Trego</h2>WaKeeney: Andrew Mejia, Bachelor of Science;The full lists of graduates and semester honor recipients&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/lists/index.html">are available online.</a>

Area K-State students earn fall 2024 degrees, semester honors

RAWLINS COUNTY —A Special Agent with the Kansas State Fire Marshall assisted in an investigation of a grass fire in Rawlins County.

The area of origin for the grass fire was a burn pit that has not been used in over a week, according to a social media report fro the State Fire Marshal. The property owner last checked the burn pit the previous weekend and saw no signs of smoldering. 

The State Fire Marshall reminded the public that burn pits can smolder for days or weeks, even after they fire appears to be out. "One tip is to keep up on property maintenance by keeping vegetation mowed down and away from any structures.It does not take long for dry material to go up in flames."

 Two Thomas County Deputies who were alerted to the fire in the neighboring county responded and observed a group of trees/bushes near a shed ignite. One deputy stated, "It was a big flash and the bushes were gone."&nbsp; &nbsp;There were no injuries from the fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741869355350.jpeg" alt="Aftermath of the grass fire that started out in the burn pit that went unused for a week, unknowingly smoldering under the ash and any remaining debris, being fanned by winds around 20 mph, finally igniting and spreading.-photo Kansas State Fire Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Aftermath of the grass fire that started out in the burn pit that went unused for a week, unknowingly smoldering under the ash and any remaining debris, being fanned by winds around 20 mph, finally igniting and spreading.-photo Kansas State Fire Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>RAWLINS COUNTY —A Special Agent with the Kansas State Fire Marshall assisted in an investigation of a grass fire in Rawlins County.The area of origin for the grass fire was a burn pit that has not been used in over a week, according to a social media report fro the State Fire Marshal. The property owner last checked the burn pit the previous weekend and saw no signs of smoldering. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741869157017.png" alt="Photo Kansas State Fire Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas State Fire Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>The State Fire Marshall reminded the public that burn pits can smolder for days or weeks, even after they fire appears to be out. "One tip is to keep up on property maintenance by keeping vegetation mowed down and away from any structures.It does not take long for dry material to go up in flames." Two Thomas County Deputies who were alerted to the fire in the neighboring county responded and observed a group of trees/bushes near a shed ignite. One deputy stated, "It was a big flash and the bushes were gone."&nbsp; &nbsp;There were no injuries from the fire.

Fire Marshall: Burn pit unused for a week sparked NW Kan. fire

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

<a href="https://hpmhc.com/">High Plains Mental Health Center</a> broke ground Tuesday on a Crisis Intervention Center, which will be in the east wing of the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., in downtown Hays.

Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains, said Tuesday the center will likely be the first of its kind in the state. The Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services only made the Crisis Intervention Center licensing available this summer.

The Crisis Intervention Center will offer 22 patient rooms and two de-escalation rooms, with overflow capacity available to accommodate peak demand times.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a5c9e74d-b3c6-4fb3-90f3-c8624667c609">SEE RELATED STORY: High Plains announces new Crisis Intervention Center; launches fundraising campaign</a>

Patients will stay an average of three days for&nbsp;mental health crises regardless of specific mental health diagnoses.

The center is meant to alleviate the wait list at Larned State Hospital.&nbsp;

Involuntary patients sometimes wait days at local emergency departments or with law enforcement until they can be transferred to Larned.

Those people waiting for long-term beds will be able to come to the center and begin treatment, Poe said in an email to the Hays Post.

"Ideally, these patients will be stabilized at the [Crisis Intervention Center] and not require additional inpatient treatment. However, if they require ongoing inpatient treatment, they will be transferred to [Larned State Hospital] when a bed becomes available," Poe said.

The facility is expected to serve at least 500 clients annually and will be the closest option for residents in 28 western Kansas counties.

"This will be a place where healing and hope will be offered to those in need at their most vulnerable moments," Poe said at the groundbreaking.

The Schwaller Center, founded in Hays in 2002, has been able to accept four voluntary patients. However, the new center will also be able to accept involuntary patients, detox patients or patients who have medical needs.

"Law enforcement or a concerned citizen can bring somebody and say, 'This person is a danger to themselves or others, and they need some help,'" he said.

The clinical team would then validate that person's need to be admitted.

"It's going to be so impactful for the community because we can provide that involuntary care. We've all been in some type of experience with someone in a mental health crisis, and they aren't likely to say, 'I want help,'" Poe said.

Poe said some of these patients might be able to resolve their crises and not have to stay in a state hospital.

"Adding that to this community and the surrounding area is huge," he said.

The functions of the Schwaller Center will be absorbed by the Crisis Intervention Center.

KVC used the third floor of the Hadley Center for youth psychiatric treatment, but the space was not configured for that purpose. The children's services have been moved to a renovated center at 3000 New Way Blvd., which is now known as Camber.

Benito Rivera-Madrid, center project manager, said the space, which has been taken down to the walls, is being reconfigured for use as a psychiatric treatment facility to ensure the safety, comfort and dignity of the people who will be treated at the new facility.

Large single rooms will be divided into two smaller individual rooms for privacy and to encourage patients to interact in a larger community space being cleared in the center of the facility.

The facility will be secure with one or two security guards. Involuntary patients will enter the facility through a separate secure and private intake area and elevator on the north side of the building,&nbsp;Rivera-Madrid said.

Fifty direct jobs will be added within the Crisis Intervention Center, and the center will account for millions of dollars in economic impact on the community, Poe said.

The total construction cost for the center remodeling project is $5,435,496, covering building construction, design fees, furniture, safety features, technology setup and labor.

The Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Service has committed $1.38 million, leaving a remaining balance of $4,055,496, which will need to be covered through other funding sources, including private donations.

"Unfortunately, we don't have two or three years," James Gerstner, High Plains development director, said of the fundraising. "There are a lot of people in very serious life-threatening challenges all of the time."

The state funds are contingent on the center opening by the end of 2025.

High Plains has launched a capital campaign to raise the remaining funds needed for the project. The campaign includes Founding Contributors, who will receive special recognition at the finished center.

Founding Contributor contributions start at $500.&nbsp;Gerstner said there are naming rights available.

Gerstner said pledges that could be paid over several years also will be accepted.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://hpmhc.com/giving">hpmhc.com/giving</a>&nbsp;to get started today, and watch social media for updates and other upcoming opportunities. Contributions can also be sent by paper mail to 208 E. Seventh St., Hays, KS 67601.

For more information, contact development officer James Gerstner at 785-628-2871.

"We really need this space to provide the right therapeutic care for the right people much, much closer to home," Gerstner said.

"Unfortunately, in our area, when someone is in a mental health or substance abuse crisis, they often end up in emergency rooms, or they end up in jail cells. Neither is the place to get therapeutic treatment.&nbsp;

"It sounds a little callous, but that is a drain on hospital resources. That is a drain on law enforcement resources. We can do it in a much better and much more therapeutic way, much closer to home, so someone doesn't have to drive to Larned or Wichita or Kansas City."

High Plains Mental Health is also hosting the <a href="https://auctria.events/masqueradeonmain">Masquerade on Main</a> fundraiser at 6 p.m. May 31 at The Strand in Hays. Tickets are $50. You can also donate directly to High Plains from the event page.

All funds from this event this year will go toward the center project.

If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, dial 911, 988 for the national crisis hotline or 1-800-432-0333 for the High Plains 24/7 crisis line.

Call High Plains at 785-628-2871 to find the service location closest to you. Visit the mental health center's website at <a href="https://hpmhc.com/">hpmhc.com</a>&nbsp;or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HighPlainsMentalHealth">Facebook</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741807844496.jpeg" alt="Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, ceremonially takes a swing into a wall set to be demolished on the third floor of the Hadley Center in Hays. The space is being renovated into a Crisis Intervention Center Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, ceremonially takes a swing into a wall set to be demolished on the third floor of the Hadley Center in Hays. The space is being renovated into a Crisis Intervention Center Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post<a href="https://hpmhc.com/">High Plains Mental Health Center</a> broke ground Tuesday on a Crisis Intervention Center, which will be in the east wing of the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St., in downtown Hays.Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains, said Tuesday the center will likely be the first of its kind in the state. The Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services only made the Crisis Intervention Center licensing available this summer.The Crisis Intervention Center will offer 22 patient rooms and two de-escalation rooms, with overflow capacity available to accommodate peak demand times.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a5c9e74d-b3c6-4fb3-90f3-c8624667c609">SEE RELATED STORY: High Plains announces new Crisis Intervention Center; launches fundraising campaign</a>Patients will stay an average of three days for&nbsp;mental health crises regardless of specific mental health diagnoses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741807883431.jpeg" alt="The High Plains Mental Health and construction team had a ceremonial wall breaking as a project to renovate the east wing of the Hadley Center into a 22-bed Crisis Intervention Center kicked off Tuesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The High Plains Mental Health and construction team had a ceremonial wall breaking as a project to renovate the east wing of the Hadley Center into a 22-bed Crisis Intervention Center kicked off Tuesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The center is meant to alleviate the wait list at Larned State Hospital.&nbsp;Involuntary patients sometimes wait days at local emergency departments or with law enforcement until they can be transferred to Larned.Those people waiting for long-term beds will be able to come to the center and begin treatment, Poe said in an email to the Hays Post."Ideally, these patients will be stabilized at the [Crisis Intervention Center] and not require additional inpatient treatment. However, if they require ongoing inpatient treatment, they will be transferred to [Larned State Hospital] when a bed becomes available," Poe said.The facility is expected to serve at least 500 clients annually and will be the closest option for residents in 28 western Kansas counties."This will be a place where healing and hope will be offered to those in need at their most vulnerable moments," Poe said at the groundbreaking.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YrvPagNrjwE?si=Vou9eFhHd_lMGQYS" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Schwaller Center, founded in Hays in 2002, has been able to accept four voluntary patients. However, the new center will also be able to accept involuntary patients, detox patients or patients who have medical needs."Law enforcement or a concerned citizen can bring somebody and say, 'This person is a danger to themselves or others, and they need some help,'" he said.The clinical team would then validate that person's need to be admitted."It's going to be so impactful for the community because we can provide that involuntary care. We've all been in some type of experience with someone in a mental health crisis, and they aren't likely to say, 'I want help,'" Poe said.Poe said some of these patients might be able to resolve their crises and not have to stay in a state hospital."Adding that to this community and the surrounding area is huge," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741807919383.jpeg" alt="These rooms will be renovated into two smaller rooms for the Crisis Intervention Center. The single rooms are meant to be more private and encourage patients to stay in public areas where they can have more social interaction. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>These rooms will be renovated into two smaller rooms for the Crisis Intervention Center. The single rooms are meant to be more private and encourage patients to stay in public areas where they can have more social interaction. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The functions of the Schwaller Center will be absorbed by the Crisis Intervention Center.KVC used the third floor of the Hadley Center for youth psychiatric treatment, but the space was not configured for that purpose. The children's services have been moved to a renovated center at 3000 New Way Blvd., which is now known as Camber.Benito Rivera-Madrid, center project manager, said the space, which has been taken down to the walls, is being reconfigured for use as a psychiatric treatment facility to ensure the safety, comfort and dignity of the people who will be treated at the new facility.Large single rooms will be divided into two smaller individual rooms for privacy and to encourage patients to interact in a larger community space being cleared in the center of the facility.The facility will be secure with one or two security guards. Involuntary patients will enter the facility through a separate secure and private intake area and elevator on the north side of the building,&nbsp;Rivera-Madrid said.Fifty direct jobs will be added within the Crisis Intervention Center, and the center will account for millions of dollars in economic impact on the community, Poe said.The total construction cost for the center remodeling project is $5,435,496, covering building construction, design fees, furniture, safety features, technology setup and labor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741807947530.jpeg" alt="Demolition has already started on the $5.4 million Crisis Intervention Center. A large community area will encompass this area and the rooms to the north. A wall will be removed to create more open space. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Demolition has already started on the $5.4 million Crisis Intervention Center. A large community area will encompass this area and the rooms to the north. A wall will be removed to create more open space. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Service has committed $1.38 million, leaving a remaining balance of $4,055,496, which will need to be covered through other funding sources, including private donations."Unfortunately, we don't have two or three years," James Gerstner, High Plains development director, said of the fundraising. "There are a lot of people in very serious life-threatening challenges all of the time."The state funds are contingent on the center opening by the end of 2025.High Plains has launched a capital campaign to raise the remaining funds needed for the project. The campaign includes Founding Contributors, who will receive special recognition at the finished center.Founding Contributor contributions start at $500.&nbsp;Gerstner said there are naming rights available.Gerstner said pledges that could be paid over several years also will be accepted.Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://hpmhc.com/giving">hpmhc.com/giving</a>&nbsp;to get started today, and watch social media for updates and other upcoming opportunities. Contributions can also be sent by paper mail to 208 E. Seventh St., Hays, KS 67601.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741807979285.jpeg" alt="Craig Poe,&nbsp;executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, and Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, at the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday for High Plains' new Crisis Intervention Center in Hays. The center will be the nearest facility of its kind for 28 western counties. High Plains needs to raise $4 million to complete the center's renovations." />
 <figcaption>Craig Poe,&nbsp;executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center, and Sarah Wasinger, president/CEO of the Chamber in Hays, at the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday for High Plains' new Crisis Intervention Center in Hays. The center will be the nearest facility of its kind for 28 western counties. High Plains needs to raise $4 million to complete the center's renovations.</figcaption>
 </figure>For more information, contact development officer James Gerstner at 785-628-2871."We really need this space to provide the right therapeutic care for the right people much, much closer to home," Gerstner said."Unfortunately, in our area, when someone is in a mental health or substance abuse crisis, they often end up in emergency rooms, or they end up in jail cells. Neither is the place to get therapeutic treatment.&nbsp;"It sounds a little callous, but that is a drain on hospital resources. That is a drain on law enforcement resources. We can do it in a much better and much more therapeutic way, much closer to home, so someone doesn't have to drive to Larned or Wichita or Kansas City."High Plains Mental Health is also hosting the <a href="https://auctria.events/masqueradeonmain">Masquerade on Main</a> fundraiser at 6 p.m. May 31 at The Strand in Hays. Tickets are $50. You can also donate directly to High Plains from the event page.All funds from this event this year will go toward the center project.If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, dial 911, 988 for the national crisis hotline or 1-800-432-0333 for the High Plains 24/7 crisis line.Call High Plains at 785-628-2871 to find the service location closest to you. Visit the mental health center's website at <a href="https://hpmhc.com/">hpmhc.com</a>&nbsp;or follow them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HighPlainsMentalHealth">Facebook</a>.

High Plains Mental Health breaks ground on Crisis Intervention Center

Hays Regional Airport announced a record-breaking 15,032 enplanements in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the northwest Kansas travel hub.

The new high underscores the airport’s increasing role in connecting the region to vital services, economic opportunities, and global destinations.

“This achievement is incredibly exciting for everyone involved,” said Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director. “We’ve worked diligently alongside our air service carrier, SkyWest Airlines operating under the United Airlines banner, to ensure Hays Regional Airport is an inviting and reliable option for residents. One of our biggest selling points is convenience. If you’re flying out of Hays, you can park for free close to the terminal, check in, and pass through security without the stress of heavy traffic or navigating a massive airport. That time saved is valuable, both for busy professionals and for families heading out on vacation.”

“Most people already know SkyWest serves our community with passenger jet service from the Hays Regional Airport. But the airport also provides vital resources to our region from cargo delivery, charter service, and flight instruction to emergency services like medical evacuation, search and rescue, and organ transport flights,” Salter said. “The airport has even been utilized as a base to fight wildfires.”

Salter said that the airport’s broad range of services has a ripple effect throughout the local and regional economy.

“We host business and general aviation aircraft operators daily who fuel our local businesses, purchase supplies, and even stay overnight in Hays-area hotels. The synergy between the airport and the larger community is a real driving force behind our success.”

Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the airport’s record enplanements signal a broader trend of local residents and businesses choosing air travel over lengthy drives to Denver, Kansas City, or Wichita.

Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, praised the Airport’s expanded influence in bringing the world to northwest Kansas—and vice versa.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled about the record enplanements,” Dixon said. “Each passenger represents a point of connection to global destinations, but it also means we’re bringing new visitors in. People attending conferences, college, family reunions, or just exploring Kansas can easily fly into Hays. It’s a major win for local tourism. An affordable, convenient way to travel ultimately benefits all aspects of our community, from cultural events to local businesses.”

Dixon emphasized the importance of offering reliable flight schedules that cater to both business and leisure travelers.

“We understand that people have busy lives. Whether you’re a parent trying to visit relatives out of state or an entrepreneur heading to an important conference, you need flights you can count on,” she said. “Hays Regional Airport, in partnership with SkyWest, has done an exceptional job maintaining flights that open up global travel possibilities. If anyone wants to see the current options, they can go to <a href="https://flyhays.com/">FlyHays.com</a> for the latest schedules and details.”

As the airport’s enplanements surge, officials say their goal is to continue enhancing the traveler experience.

“We’ve completed some major updates inside the terminal to create a modern, welcoming atmosphere,” Salter said. “Our renovation work is ongoing, ensuring the terminal remains a place where people can relax, grab a snack, or catch up on emails before their flight. It’s all about making the experience as pleasant and hassle-free as possible for everyone who visits the airport. We want our travelers to feel comfortable and at ease the moment they walk through our doors.”

Salter and Dixon both credit community feedback for shaping the Airport’s services and amenities.

“We’re always listening,” Dixon said. “When local businesses or residents tell us they want earlier flights or have ideas for improvements, we share that with SkyWest and the airport staff. Our collaboration ensures we adapt to the community’s evolving needs.”

Salter praised the mutual cooperation among local government agencies, organizations, and local and regional stakeholders, noting that continuous communication and planning have positioned Hays Regional Airport as a key player in area development.

“The record-setting enplanements wouldn’t be possible without the entire region uniting around the importance of air service,” Salter said. “It’s truly a community achievement—one that underscores our commitment to serving northwest Kansas with safe, reliable, and convenient travel opportunities.”

For more information on flight times, booking details, and additional services, visit FlyHays.com or <a href="https://www.united.com/en/us">United.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741799978344.jpeg" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Regional AirportHays Regional Airport announced a record-breaking 15,032 enplanements in 2024, marking a significant milestone for the northwest Kansas travel hub.The new high underscores the airport’s increasing role in connecting the region to vital services, economic opportunities, and global destinations.“This achievement is incredibly exciting for everyone involved,” said Jamie Salter, Hays Regional Airport director. “We’ve worked diligently alongside our air service carrier, SkyWest Airlines operating under the United Airlines banner, to ensure Hays Regional Airport is an inviting and reliable option for residents. One of our biggest selling points is convenience. If you’re flying out of Hays, you can park for free close to the terminal, check in, and pass through security without the stress of heavy traffic or navigating a massive airport. That time saved is valuable, both for busy professionals and for families heading out on vacation.”“Most people already know SkyWest serves our community with passenger jet service from the Hays Regional Airport. But the airport also provides vital resources to our region from cargo delivery, charter service, and flight instruction to emergency services like medical evacuation, search and rescue, and organ transport flights,” Salter said. “The airport has even been utilized as a base to fight wildfires.”Salter said that the airport’s broad range of services has a ripple effect throughout the local and regional economy.“We host business and general aviation aircraft operators daily who fuel our local businesses, purchase supplies, and even stay overnight in Hays-area hotels. The synergy between the airport and the larger community is a real driving force behind our success.”Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the airport’s record enplanements signal a broader trend of local residents and businesses choosing air travel over lengthy drives to Denver, Kansas City, or Wichita.Melissa Dixon, director of the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau, praised the Airport’s expanded influence in bringing the world to northwest Kansas—and vice versa.“We couldn’t be more thrilled about the record enplanements,” Dixon said. “Each passenger represents a point of connection to global destinations, but it also means we’re bringing new visitors in. People attending conferences, college, family reunions, or just exploring Kansas can easily fly into Hays. It’s a major win for local tourism. An affordable, convenient way to travel ultimately benefits all aspects of our community, from cultural events to local businesses.”Dixon emphasized the importance of offering reliable flight schedules that cater to both business and leisure travelers.“We understand that people have busy lives. Whether you’re a parent trying to visit relatives out of state or an entrepreneur heading to an important conference, you need flights you can count on,” she said. “Hays Regional Airport, in partnership with SkyWest, has done an exceptional job maintaining flights that open up global travel possibilities. If anyone wants to see the current options, they can go to <a href="https://flyhays.com/">FlyHays.com</a> for the latest schedules and details.”As the airport’s enplanements surge, officials say their goal is to continue enhancing the traveler experience.“We’ve completed some major updates inside the terminal to create a modern, welcoming atmosphere,” Salter said. “Our renovation work is ongoing, ensuring the terminal remains a place where people can relax, grab a snack, or catch up on emails before their flight. It’s all about making the experience as pleasant and hassle-free as possible for everyone who visits the airport. We want our travelers to feel comfortable and at ease the moment they walk through our doors.”Salter and Dixon both credit community feedback for shaping the Airport’s services and amenities.“We’re always listening,” Dixon said. “When local businesses or residents tell us they want earlier flights or have ideas for improvements, we share that with SkyWest and the airport staff. Our collaboration ensures we adapt to the community’s evolving needs.”Salter praised the mutual cooperation among local government agencies, organizations, and local and regional stakeholders, noting that continuous communication and planning have positioned Hays Regional Airport as a key player in area development.“The record-setting enplanements wouldn’t be possible without the entire region uniting around the importance of air service,” Salter said. “It’s truly a community achievement—one that underscores our commitment to serving northwest Kansas with safe, reliable, and convenient travel opportunities.”For more information on flight times, booking details, and additional services, visit FlyHays.com or <a href="https://www.united.com/en/us">United.com</a>.

Record number of enplanements at Hays Regional Airport in 2024

LOGAN — The Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan has named 228 high school seniors from 43 northwest Kansas schools as winners in its 50th&nbsp;annual scholarship competition.&nbsp;

In selecting award winners, the scholarship committee considered proficiency in verbal and writing skills.&nbsp; Other important factors are academic records, test scores, and community service in which the student may have participated.

Seven students have won Hansen Leader of Tomorrow scholarships.&nbsp; These awards are for $10,000 and may be renewable for three additional years.&nbsp; Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a progress update describing progress towards educational goals.&nbsp; 

Kenneth Fisher, Hays High School&nbsp; Isabelle Jones, Hays High School Clay Guttery, Osborne High School Hailey Gier, Russell High School&nbsp; Charles Foote, Hoxie High School

Thirty-five Hansen Scholar winners were selected.&nbsp; The stipend of $6,500 was granted for one year and may be renewable for three additional years.&nbsp; Renewal of scholarships is:&nbsp; based upon continued regard for the principles which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a progress update describing progress towards educational goals.&nbsp;

This year’s winners include:&nbsp; Taegan Shannon, Ellis High School Aiden Burton, KAMS/Hays High School&nbsp; Kolynn Denning, Hays High School Brett Dreher, Hays High School &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Caleb King, Hays High School Ken Shaffer, Hays High School John Weisenborn, Hays High School Madox Zimmerman, Hays High School Gordon Schroeder, TMP-Marian High School Payton Bailey, Norton Comm. High School Tyler Stewart, Norton Comm. High School Kaitlin Kendig, Osborne High School Michael VanDerVeen, Phillipsburg High School Andrew Anderson, Rawlins Co. High School Alexander Redinger, KAMS/Rawlins Co. High School Bryan Garvert, Plainville High School &nbsp; Kyzer Schiltz, Hoxie High School Ruby Gomel-Osthoff, Smith Center High School

The Foundation offered seventy scholarships for Hansen Student winners.&nbsp; These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record.&nbsp;

Dallynn Dinkel, St. Francis&nbsp;High School Morgan Armbrister, Ellis&nbsp;High School Addison Kohl, Ellis&nbsp;High School Maleah Vine, Ellis&nbsp;High School Reagan Bates, Hays&nbsp;High School Riley Dreher, Hays&nbsp;High School &nbsp;Cason Grezeszak, Hays&nbsp;High School Cooper L. Johnson, Hays&nbsp;High School Truman Johnson, Hays&nbsp;High School Hannah Koster, Hays&nbsp;High School Julia Kuhl, Hays&nbsp;High School Emmaline Leuschner, Hays&nbsp;High&nbsp;School Mason Schleicher, Hays&nbsp;High School Catherine Schmidt, Hays&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Jake Brady, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School Caleb Marintzer, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; William Robinson, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School&nbsp; &nbsp; Breanna Seiler, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; Zolton Beckner, Quinter&nbsp;High School Hans Deaton, Quinter&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; Kyler Glick, Quinter&nbsp;High School Harlan Pancost, Sylvan-Lucas Unified&nbsp;High School Anastacia Franz, Oakley&nbsp;High School Hallie Thielen, Sylvan-Lucas Unified&nbsp;High School&nbsp; &nbsp; Carter Krier, Oakley&nbsp;High School Hayden Stubbs, Oakley&nbsp;High School Granberry, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Mareesa Hempler, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Ella Juenemann, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Collin Simmons, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Colton Stover, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Grace William, Osborne&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Makayla Doering, Minneapolis&nbsp;High School Hannah Kennedy, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Callie Leidig, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Clara Kastens, Rawlins Co.&nbsp;High School Jackson Gasper, Stockton&nbsp;High School Noah Griffin, Plainville&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Mason Rohr, Russell&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Madison Sohm, Russell&nbsp;High School Samuel Watkins, Hoxie&nbsp;High School Kyler Elliott, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Easton Hrabe, Smith Center&nbsp;High School

For students interested in seeking competence through career and technical education in one of the pre-approved schools in Northwest Kansas, the Foundation offered the following scholarships. These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record. 

The winners of the Career and Technical Education scholarships include:

Jesus Quezada, St. Francis&nbsp;High School Ashton McAtee, St. Francis&nbsp;High School Jessiah McDougal, Decatur Comm.&nbsp;High School Talan Sauvage, Decatur Comm.&nbsp;High School Kamden Keller, Ellis&nbsp;High School Chance Jimenez, Ellis&nbsp;High School Gavyn Wildeman, Ellis&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Jayten Wickham, Hays&nbsp;High School Jayne Brooks, Hays&nbsp;High School Kyleigh Brown, Hays&nbsp;High School Kaden Haas, Hays&nbsp;High School Lauren Klein, Hays&nbsp;High School Carter Lang, Hays&nbsp;High School Brett Luetters, Hays&nbsp;High School Ava Matter, Hays&nbsp;High School Madison Mayers, Hays&nbsp;High School Cole McDonough, Hays&nbsp;High School Tori Miller, Hays&nbsp;High School Nikole Orender, Hays&nbsp;High School Blake Pflaum, Hays&nbsp;High School Katelynn Redding, Hays&nbsp;High School Maritza Resendiz, Hays&nbsp;High School Cali Richmeier, Hays&nbsp;High School Taryn Rueschhoff, Hays&nbsp;High School Gizel Ruiz, Hays&nbsp;High School Samantha Sanderson, Hays&nbsp;High School Gizel Ruiz, Hays&nbsp;High School Samantha Sanderson, Hays&nbsp;High School Karley Schlautman, Hays&nbsp;High School Savannah Schmitz, Hays&nbsp;High School Lillian Wellbrock, Hays&nbsp;High School Juliana Dinkel, Victoria&nbsp;High School Jebediah Miller, Victoria&nbsp;High School Jillian Schmidt, Victoria&nbsp;High School Levi Wellbrock, Victoria&nbsp;High School Matthew Mader, Quinter&nbsp;High School. Heidi Simon, Quinter&nbsp;High School Jadyn Gallentine, Wheatland&nbsp;High School. Leeta Gorczyca, Wheatland&nbsp;High School Emma Zerr, Wheatland&nbsp;High School Evan Walt, Hill City&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Cameron Atkins, Hill City&nbsp;High School Garrett Billips, Hill City&nbsp;High School Serenity Desaire, Hill City&nbsp;High School Cade Dinkel, Hill City&nbsp;High School Alexander Hamel, Hill City&nbsp;High School Sylar Rohr, Hill City&nbsp;High School Gavin&nbsp;Braun, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Brynna Brown, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Ella Clark, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Eli Jones, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Rylie Linner, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Dawson Lantz, Osborne&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Addison Poore, Osborne&nbsp;High School Makayla Murphy, Natoma&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rhett Kats, Logan&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; Caleb Sparks, Logan&nbsp;High School Damien Gregory, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School.&nbsp; Carmen Manz, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Kayden Hudson, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School. Seth Keeten, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Amaya Michael, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Eli Holle, Rawlins Co.&nbsp;High School Abigail Molina, Plainville&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Ryleigh Gardner, Stockton&nbsp;High School Cason Iwanski, Stockton&nbsp;High School Emerson Lowry, Stockton&nbsp;High School Brin Muir, Stockton&nbsp;High School Emerson Lowry, Stockton&nbsp;High School Brin Muir, Stockton&nbsp;High School Dax Ervin, Russell&nbsp;High School Jaden Ney, Russell&nbsp;High School Kelvie Reeves, Russell&nbsp;High School Harlie Walker, Russell&nbsp;High School Mason Berls, Goodland&nbsp;High School Brady Brumbaugh, Goodland&nbsp;High School Zach Thorson, Goodland&nbsp;High School Kaitlyn Maruska, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Teagan Maxwell, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Hannah Ratliff, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Kambree Lahnanen, Colby&nbsp;High School Logan Nolan, Colby&nbsp;High School Lyssa Rinehart, Colby&nbsp;High School Allison Zimmerman, Colby&nbsp;High School Kylee Cox, Trego Comm.&nbsp;High School Graeden Deines, Trego Comm.&nbsp;High School Jaryn Windholz, Trego Comm.&nbsp;High School Makenna Gibbs, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School Kenli Larson, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School Jyma Stafford, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School Lincoln Stramel, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592656349558.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hansen FoundationLOGAN — The Dane G. Hansen Foundation of Logan has named 228 high school seniors from 43 northwest Kansas schools as winners in its 50th&nbsp;annual scholarship competition.&nbsp;In selecting award winners, the scholarship committee considered proficiency in verbal and writing skills.&nbsp; Other important factors are academic records, test scores, and community service in which the student may have participated.Seven students have won Hansen Leader of Tomorrow scholarships.&nbsp; These awards are for $10,000 and may be renewable for three additional years.&nbsp; Renewal of scholarships is based upon continued regard for the principles which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a progress update describing progress towards educational goals.&nbsp; This year’s winners include:Kenneth Fisher, Hays High School&nbsp; Isabelle Jones, Hays High School Clay Guttery, Osborne High School Hailey Gier, Russell High School&nbsp; Charles Foote, Hoxie High SchoolThirty-five Hansen Scholar winners were selected.&nbsp; The stipend of $6,500 was granted for one year and may be renewable for three additional years.&nbsp; Renewal of scholarships is:&nbsp; based upon continued regard for the principles which guided the success of the late Dane G. Hansen, a 3.00 or better GPA at the college level and a progress update describing progress towards educational goals.&nbsp; This year’s winners include:&nbsp; Taegan Shannon, Ellis High School Aiden Burton, KAMS/Hays High School&nbsp; Kolynn Denning, Hays High School Brett Dreher, Hays High School &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Caleb King, Hays High School Ken Shaffer, Hays High School John Weisenborn, Hays High School Madox Zimmerman, Hays High School Gordon Schroeder, TMP-Marian High School Payton Bailey, Norton Comm. High School Tyler Stewart, Norton Comm. High School Kaitlin Kendig, Osborne High School Michael VanDerVeen, Phillipsburg High School Andrew Anderson, Rawlins Co. High School Alexander Redinger, KAMS/Rawlins Co. High School Bryan Garvert, Plainville High School &nbsp; Kyzer Schiltz, Hoxie High School Ruby Gomel-Osthoff, Smith Center High School The Foundation offered seventy scholarships for Hansen Student winners.&nbsp; These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record.&nbsp; This year’s winners include:Dallynn Dinkel, St. Francis&nbsp;High School Morgan Armbrister, Ellis&nbsp;High School Addison Kohl, Ellis&nbsp;High School Maleah Vine, Ellis&nbsp;High School Reagan Bates, Hays&nbsp;High School Riley Dreher, Hays&nbsp;High School &nbsp;Cason Grezeszak, Hays&nbsp;High School Cooper L. Johnson, Hays&nbsp;High School Truman Johnson, Hays&nbsp;High School Hannah Koster, Hays&nbsp;High School Julia Kuhl, Hays&nbsp;High School Emmaline Leuschner, Hays&nbsp;High&nbsp;School Mason Schleicher, Hays&nbsp;High School Catherine Schmidt, Hays&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Jake Brady, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School Caleb Marintzer, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; William Robinson, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School&nbsp; &nbsp; Breanna Seiler, TMP-Marian&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; Zolton Beckner, Quinter&nbsp;High School Hans Deaton, Quinter&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; Kyler Glick, Quinter&nbsp;High School Harlan Pancost, Sylvan-Lucas Unified&nbsp;High School Anastacia Franz, Oakley&nbsp;High School Hallie Thielen, Sylvan-Lucas Unified&nbsp;High School&nbsp; &nbsp; Carter Krier, Oakley&nbsp;High School Hayden Stubbs, Oakley&nbsp;High School Granberry, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Mareesa Hempler, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Ella Juenemann, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Collin Simmons, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Colton Stover, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Grace William, Osborne&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Makayla Doering, Minneapolis&nbsp;High School Hannah Kennedy, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Callie Leidig, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Clara Kastens, Rawlins Co.&nbsp;High School Jackson Gasper, Stockton&nbsp;High School Noah Griffin, Plainville&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Mason Rohr, Russell&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Madison Sohm, Russell&nbsp;High School Samuel Watkins, Hoxie&nbsp;High School Kyler Elliott, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Easton Hrabe, Smith Center&nbsp;High SchoolFor students interested in seeking competence through career and technical education in one of the pre-approved schools in Northwest Kansas, the Foundation offered the following scholarships. These awards are for $4,000 and may be renewed for one additional year provided the student has maintained a satisfactory academic record. The winners of the Career and Technical Education scholarships include:Jesus Quezada, St. Francis&nbsp;High School Ashton McAtee, St. Francis&nbsp;High School Jessiah McDougal, Decatur Comm.&nbsp;High School Talan Sauvage, Decatur Comm.&nbsp;High School Kamden Keller, Ellis&nbsp;High School Chance Jimenez, Ellis&nbsp;High School Gavyn Wildeman, Ellis&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Jayten Wickham, Hays&nbsp;High School Jayne Brooks, Hays&nbsp;High School Kyleigh Brown, Hays&nbsp;High School Kaden Haas, Hays&nbsp;High School Lauren Klein, Hays&nbsp;High School Carter Lang, Hays&nbsp;High School Brett Luetters, Hays&nbsp;High School Ava Matter, Hays&nbsp;High School Madison Mayers, Hays&nbsp;High School Cole McDonough, Hays&nbsp;High School Tori Miller, Hays&nbsp;High School Nikole Orender, Hays&nbsp;High School Blake Pflaum, Hays&nbsp;High School Katelynn Redding, Hays&nbsp;High School Maritza Resendiz, Hays&nbsp;High School Cali Richmeier, Hays&nbsp;High School Taryn Rueschhoff, Hays&nbsp;High School Gizel Ruiz, Hays&nbsp;High School Samantha Sanderson, Hays&nbsp;High School Gizel Ruiz, Hays&nbsp;High School Samantha Sanderson, Hays&nbsp;High School Karley Schlautman, Hays&nbsp;High School Savannah Schmitz, Hays&nbsp;High School Lillian Wellbrock, Hays&nbsp;High School Juliana Dinkel, Victoria&nbsp;High School Jebediah Miller, Victoria&nbsp;High School Jillian Schmidt, Victoria&nbsp;High School Levi Wellbrock, Victoria&nbsp;High School Matthew Mader, Quinter&nbsp;High School. Heidi Simon, Quinter&nbsp;High School Jadyn Gallentine, Wheatland&nbsp;High School. Leeta Gorczyca, Wheatland&nbsp;High School Emma Zerr, Wheatland&nbsp;High School Evan Walt, Hill City&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Cameron Atkins, Hill City&nbsp;High School Garrett Billips, Hill City&nbsp;High School Serenity Desaire, Hill City&nbsp;High School Cade Dinkel, Hill City&nbsp;High School Alexander Hamel, Hill City&nbsp;High School Sylar Rohr, Hill City&nbsp;High School Gavin&nbsp;Braun, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Brynna Brown, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Ella Clark, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Eli Jones, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Rylie Linner, Norton Comm.&nbsp;High School Dawson Lantz, Osborne&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Addison Poore, Osborne&nbsp;High School Makayla Murphy, Natoma&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Rhett Kats, Logan&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp; Caleb Sparks, Logan&nbsp;High School Damien Gregory, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School.&nbsp; Carmen Manz, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Kayden Hudson, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School. Seth Keeten, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Amaya Michael, Phillipsburg&nbsp;High School Eli Holle, Rawlins Co.&nbsp;High School Abigail Molina, Plainville&nbsp;High School&nbsp; Ryleigh Gardner, Stockton&nbsp;High School Cason Iwanski, Stockton&nbsp;High School Emerson Lowry, Stockton&nbsp;High School Brin Muir, Stockton&nbsp;High School Emerson Lowry, Stockton&nbsp;High School Brin Muir, Stockton&nbsp;High School Dax Ervin, Russell&nbsp;High School Jaden Ney, Russell&nbsp;High School Kelvie Reeves, Russell&nbsp;High School Harlie Walker, Russell&nbsp;High School Mason Berls, Goodland&nbsp;High School Brady Brumbaugh, Goodland&nbsp;High School Zach Thorson, Goodland&nbsp;High School Kaitlyn Maruska, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Teagan Maxwell, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Hannah Ratliff, Smith Center&nbsp;High School Kambree Lahnanen, Colby&nbsp;High School Logan Nolan, Colby&nbsp;High School Lyssa Rinehart, Colby&nbsp;High School Allison Zimmerman, Colby&nbsp;High School Kylee Cox, Trego Comm.&nbsp;High School Graeden Deines, Trego Comm.&nbsp;High School Jaryn Windholz, Trego Comm.&nbsp;High School Makenna Gibbs, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School Kenli Larson, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School Jyma Stafford, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School Lincoln Stramel, Wallace Co.&nbsp;High School&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Northwest Kansas students win Hansen scholarships

A Plan Can Help Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Fuel Growth

It’s best practice for all businesses to have a strategic plan, from self-employed professionals to Fortune 500 Companies. Strategic plans provide vision, direction, focus and help business owners align their goals with actionable steps. Without a strategic plan, businesses risk drifting without clear priorities, leading to missed opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Additionally, strategic plans help businesses anticipate potential challenges and respond to competition in a proactive manner. By setting clear objectives and identifying competitive advantages (and disadvantages), the business can develop strategies to differentiate themselves from competitors and stand out in the market.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The business owners and executives we’ve seen successfully develop and execute strategic plans were the ones willing to step outside of the normal “day-to-day” and dedicate the time to working on their company. The investment made in designing the plan, executing the plan and being held accountable to the plan, were just as, if not more important, than the actual plan itself.&nbsp;

How Does a Strategic Plan Work?&nbsp;

Simply put, a strategic plan is a roadmap to get you from Point A and Point B. We like to think of a strategic plan as if we were planning on a cross-country road trip. Before getting on the road, wouldn’t you want to take a look at a map? Of course. Yet it’s surprising how many companies attempt “to drive from LA to New York” without a map.&nbsp;

The first thing to consider is what kind of trip you want to have. Is the goal to take the fastest, most direct route? Is the goal to meander and stop to catch a show in Vegas or hike in the Rockies? Or is the goal to drive to Kansas City as fast as possible, but stay with family for a few days?&nbsp;

In other words, setting goals and objectives is the heart of a strategic plan.

In the business world, it looks like this:&nbsp;

ABC Company is making $5 million in revenue and has EBITDA of $1 million. It has 25 employees and sells products into three customer groups. Its owner’s top goal is to grow. But growth is an amorphous goal until you quantify it with some numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Industry research – an essential aspect of strategic planning – shows other companies in ABC’s industry have typically achieved growth of 2x to 3x revenues over the past five years. But ABC’s owner wants to achieve growth of 5x revenues and add two more customer groups over the next five years.&nbsp;

A key characteristic of a good strategic plan is the probability of success i.e. realistic. The ABC owner’s goal is aggressive, but is it realistic? A market analysis shows the owner’s goal may be realistic if ABC can acquire a competitor company in addition to achieving organic growth, and if the economy and interest rates are favorable. But those are big “ifs,” and ABC would have to be extraordinarily disciplined to adhere to the strategic plan’s roadmap.&nbsp;

Quantitative &amp; Qualitative&nbsp;

Building a strategic plan requires both quantitative and qualitative thinking. Your goal may be quantitative – say you want your company to grow from $10 million in revenues to $15 million over the next three years before going out to market. That’s quantitative. You have quantified a goal.&nbsp;

But a market analysis may show that the best-in-class companies in your sector (e.g. manufacturing industry) are selling products at gross margins of 40% to 50%. Yet your company is selling products at a gross margin of 30%. It is also a quantitative thought: 30% vs 40%-50%. But it is also a qualitative thought: why? Why are your company’s products selling at a lower gross margin than your competition? Are they buying raw materials cheaper? Does your workforce lack certain skills and training to manufacture complex, more profitable products? Do you need to invest in better equipment in an attempt to improve production efficiency? The numbers point to a qualitative question, and you need to look at what’s behind your gross margin and figure out how to improve it before you go to market.&nbsp;

In essence, math can be easy. The numbers speak for themselves. But it’s the qualitative factors behind the numbers that reveal the challenges that will define much of a company’s strategic plan.&nbsp;

An effective strategic plan should mirror where a company is in its business lifecycle. If your company is a startup, the strategic plan will look different than the plan for a mature business. For a startup, the goal may not be to become profitable within a year, but rather obtain additional rounds of funding, prove its concept and identify a growth track.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Compare this plan to a company that is mature, profitable and has shareholders. They may not be looking for additional investments. But say the company has had a great year and has grabbed the attention of several private equity groups for a future acquisition. Its strategic plan might be one built around selling the company in two or three years and cashing out. What was once a mature company has now prepared a strategic plan around exit planning.&nbsp;

No matter where a company is in its business lifecycle, the process of building a strategic plan is the same: you have a starting point, which is where you are today. You envision an end point. Your strategic plan is the roadmap that gets you from the starting point to the end point.

Characteristics of a Good Strategic Plan&nbsp;

A good strategic plan rests on three important characteristics:&nbsp;

Who is Involved in Building a Strategic Plan?&nbsp;

Ultimately, a strategic plan will impact nearly everyone in a company. It needs to be finalized and approved by key stakeholders, including top management, investors and perhaps the company’s attorney and accountant.&nbsp;

But the team that actually puts together the plan should be selected based on their skills and the relevance of their roles to the content of the plan. For instance, if the plan calls for a reorganization of the ownership group, an attorney will need to be involved, and most likely a tax advisor, as well.&nbsp;

Some companies have the internal talent and skills to put together a comprehensive strategic plan. Others don’t and need to reach outside for expertise. Depending on the key goals and strategies laid out in the plan, input from an attorney, an accountant, a banker, a wealth advisor or a business consultant may be advantageous.&nbsp;

In the end, your strategic plan needs to be short, sweet and to the point. But it needs to be supported by a lot of work behind it. When you understand where you are today and where you want to get to, that will dictate your scope and the professional team that will help build your strategic plan.&nbsp;

If you would like to take the first steps toward creating a comprehensive strategic plan for your company,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741210952586.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Plan Can Help Small and Medium-Sized Businesses Fuel GrowthKey Takeaways:<ul>
 <li>A strategic plan serves as a clear roadmap, helping businesses set measurable goals, anticipate challenges and stay focused on long-term growth.</li><li>Successful strategic planning requires stepping outside daily operations to align vision with actionable steps, supported by realistic and well-researched objectives.</li><li>Tailoring a strategic plan to your company’s lifecycle ensures relevance and clarity, providing a practical framework for achieving your goals.</li>
 </ul>It’s best practice for all businesses to have a strategic plan, from self-employed professionals to Fortune 500 Companies. Strategic plans provide vision, direction, focus and help business owners align their goals with actionable steps. Without a strategic plan, businesses risk drifting without clear priorities, leading to missed opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, strategic plans help businesses anticipate potential challenges and respond to competition in a proactive manner. By setting clear objectives and identifying competitive advantages (and disadvantages), the business can develop strategies to differentiate themselves from competitors and stand out in the market.&nbsp;&nbsp;The business owners and executives we’ve seen successfully develop and execute strategic plans were the ones willing to step outside of the normal “day-to-day” and dedicate the time to working on their company. The investment made in designing the plan, executing the plan and being held accountable to the plan, were just as, if not more important, than the actual plan itself.&nbsp;How Does a Strategic Plan Work?&nbsp;Simply put, a strategic plan is a roadmap to get you from Point A and Point B. We like to think of a strategic plan as if we were planning on a cross-country road trip. Before getting on the road, wouldn’t you want to take a look at a map? Of course. Yet it’s surprising how many companies attempt “to drive from LA to New York” without a map.&nbsp;The first thing to consider is what kind of trip you want to have. Is the goal to take the fastest, most direct route? Is the goal to meander and stop to catch a show in Vegas or hike in the Rockies? Or is the goal to drive to Kansas City as fast as possible, but stay with family for a few days?&nbsp;In other words, setting goals and objectives is the heart of a strategic plan.In the business world, it looks like this:&nbsp;ABC Company is making $5 million in revenue and has EBITDA of $1 million. It has 25 employees and sells products into three customer groups. Its owner’s top goal is to grow. But growth is an amorphous goal until you quantify it with some numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Industry research – an essential aspect of strategic planning – shows other companies in ABC’s industry have typically achieved growth of 2x to 3x revenues over the past five years. But ABC’s owner wants to achieve growth of 5x revenues and add two more customer groups over the next five years.&nbsp;A key characteristic of a good strategic plan is the probability of success i.e. realistic. The ABC owner’s goal is aggressive, but is it realistic? A market analysis shows the owner’s goal may be realistic if ABC can acquire a competitor company in addition to achieving organic growth, and if the economy and interest rates are favorable. But those are big “ifs,” and ABC would have to be extraordinarily disciplined to adhere to the strategic plan’s roadmap.&nbsp;Quantitative &amp; Qualitative&nbsp;Building a strategic plan requires both quantitative and qualitative thinking. Your goal may be quantitative – say you want your company to grow from $10 million in revenues to $15 million over the next three years before going out to market. That’s quantitative. You have quantified a goal.&nbsp;But a market analysis may show that the best-in-class companies in your sector (e.g. manufacturing industry) are selling products at gross margins of 40% to 50%. Yet your company is selling products at a gross margin of 30%. It is also a quantitative thought: 30% vs 40%-50%. But it is also a qualitative thought: why? Why are your company’s products selling at a lower gross margin than your competition? Are they buying raw materials cheaper? Does your workforce lack certain skills and training to manufacture complex, more profitable products? Do you need to invest in better equipment in an attempt to improve production efficiency? The numbers point to a qualitative question, and you need to look at what’s behind your gross margin and figure out how to improve it before you go to market.&nbsp;In essence, math can be easy. The numbers speak for themselves. But it’s the qualitative factors behind the numbers that reveal the challenges that will define much of a company’s strategic plan.&nbsp;Business Lifecycle&nbsp;An effective strategic plan should mirror where a company is in its business lifecycle. If your company is a startup, the strategic plan will look different than the plan for a mature business. For a startup, the goal may not be to become profitable within a year, but rather obtain additional rounds of funding, prove its concept and identify a growth track.&nbsp;&nbsp;Compare this plan to a company that is mature, profitable and has shareholders. They may not be looking for additional investments. But say the company has had a great year and has grabbed the attention of several private equity groups for a future acquisition. Its strategic plan might be one built around selling the company in two or three years and cashing out. What was once a mature company has now prepared a strategic plan around exit planning.&nbsp;No matter where a company is in its business lifecycle, the process of building a strategic plan is the same: you have a starting point, which is where you are today. You envision an end point. Your strategic plan is the roadmap that gets you from the starting point to the end point.Characteristics of a Good Strategic Plan&nbsp;A good strategic plan rests on three important characteristics:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Clarity:&nbsp;Even if someone doesn’t agree with your plan, can they read it and understand it? Does it make sense? If a business owner hears from key stakeholders that the strategic plan doesn’t make sense or can’t hit its goals, such criticism should be taken seriously.&nbsp;</li><li>Relevance:&nbsp;Does the plan support the owner’s goal? A strategic plan should tie back to specific goals and timelines. If analysis and financial projections show the strategies and objectives in the plan, such as acquisitions or expansions of product lines, won’t be enough to help the company reach its goals, where does the problem lie? Are the strategies out of kilter or are the goals unrealistic?&nbsp;</li><li>Reality:&nbsp;Perhaps the most important characteristic is whether the plan is realistic. You should be able to map goals, objectives, milestones and outcomes to the plan in a way that makes sense. If a company is valued at $8 million and its owner’s goal is to sell for $10 million, and industry projections support that growth, that’s a realistic goal. But if they’re valued at $8 million and they want to sell for $20 million within two years, that’s an unrealistic goal.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Who is Involved in Building a Strategic Plan?&nbsp;Ultimately, a strategic plan will impact nearly everyone in a company. It needs to be finalized and approved by key stakeholders, including top management, investors and perhaps the company’s attorney and accountant.&nbsp;But the team that actually puts together the plan should be selected based on their skills and the relevance of their roles to the content of the plan. For instance, if the plan calls for a reorganization of the ownership group, an attorney will need to be involved, and most likely a tax advisor, as well.&nbsp;Some companies have the internal talent and skills to put together a comprehensive strategic plan. Others don’t and need to reach outside for expertise. Depending on the key goals and strategies laid out in the plan, input from an attorney, an accountant, a banker, a wealth advisor or a business consultant may be advantageous.&nbsp;In the end, your strategic plan needs to be short, sweet and to the point. But it needs to be supported by a lot of work behind it. When you understand where you are today and where you want to get to, that will dictate your scope and the professional team that will help build your strategic plan.&nbsp;If you would like to take the first steps toward creating a comprehensive strategic plan for your company,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor</a>.

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