<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695835893922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

By BECKY KISER&nbsp; Hays Post

The pros and cons of being a franchise owner in Hays were discussed by three local business people at Tuesday's Trispective hosted by Grow Hays.

Business creation and business retention are part of the mission of Grow Hays, said Doug Williams, executive director, and franchises are included in both areas.&nbsp;

"In my mind, a franchise is the opportunity to take a proven business model that's been replicated in many places and put that in place in a particular market," Williams said.

The panelists each had their own relationship with franchise opportunities.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Jamie Kuehl, a Hays native now living in Dodge City, is owner/operator of the two McDonald's restaurants in Hays, one each in WaKeeney, Russell, as well two in Dodge City.

His parents, Rick and Gail Kuehl, moved to Hays to open the first McDonald's franchise in 1979. His grandfather owned the chain's 71st store, which was built in the St. Louis, Mo., area.&nbsp;

Although he wasn't interested in it when he was young, Kuehl ultimately decided to join the family business as a next-generational operator.&nbsp;

That process requires a seven-year training program with McDonald's. A franchise lease is for 20 years and costs $45,000.&nbsp;

"I realized I wanted to be in business for myself, be an entrepreneur,"&nbsp; Kuehl said.

One of the best-known franchises in the world, McDonald's has a lot of power.

"Jamie's Burger Shack wouldn't sell very many hamburgers,"&nbsp;Kuehl said. "The global power of McDonald's brings a lot to the table, not only in national and local marketing, but in purchasing power for product."

The biggest challenge for Kuehl in the towns where he has restaurants is staffing.

It was a problem echoed by Kathy Schupman, owner of Kat's Hallmark Shop in downtown Hays and by James Younger, property manager at Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine, who works with franchisees in the shopping center.

Kuehl referred to a 20-year-old study that predicted the current scenario of more job availabilities than people to fill them. The COVID pandemic compounded the problem.

Kuehl estimated his labor costs have jumped $3 million in the past two years. Commodity costs are also up.

"That's why those burger prices keep climbing, just like everything else," he said.

He also pointed out to potential franchisees that McDonald's owns the land and the building its restaurants occupy.&nbsp;

The three panelists also stressed that anyone considering buying a franchise must do their due diligence and read the fine print of the franchise agreement.

Younger helps guide his potential mall lessees in the right direction, whether they're permanent, seasonal or temporary.&nbsp;

"Do they have a feasibility study, a marketing study? As a leasing agent, my approach is not we can't, but how can we," he said.

Non-permanent franchise agreements are a "less expensive way to get into entrepreneurship," Younger said. 

Younger said franchises appreciate that Hays is investing in new schools, has a low crime rate and has respected major employers.

"But many franchises want 50, 60, 100 employees, and with an unemployment rate of less than 2 percent, that's hard to find. We also have a lack of affordable housing for people who move to Hays to work those jobs," he said.

The role of indoor malls has changed dramatically in the American business landscape.

Many stores want their own outside entrance with branding on the building. There are also fewer anchor businesses.

"The leasing process for Big Creek Crossing is anywhere from six to 12 months. Each case is different in negotiating for space," Younger said. 

He estimated 10 to 15 percent of the current tenants are franchises.

Schupman offered a different perspective on the importance of location.

Hallmark is not a franchise. In order to use the national brand name, Schupman first had to prove she had $500,000 in assets. Although there is not an upfront buy-in for the five-year lease, she pays a monthly advertising fee to Hallmark.

Schupman's shop was first located in Big Creek Crossing, where she found many potential customers to be young teenagers uninterested in the Hallmark name and older walkers exercising, uninterested in shopping.

She then moved to the strip mall, Tebo Village, north of Interstate 70 at 48th and Vine, where she had many out-of-state customers in addition to her dedicated area clientele.

After six years, she needed a bigger store and&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/44c966e4-c112-4fbb-aa7a-0de780de4f16">moved to&nbsp;downtown Hays</a>,&nbsp;1003 Main, on June 14. The relocation took Hallmark several months to approve.&nbsp;Schupman said the new store site does get more foot traffic and called the downtown atmosphere "wonderful."

Williams noted downtown locales typically don't attract franchises or branded stores.

One of the most positive aspects of her business is the well-known Hallmark brand and quality and Schupman's ability to do local marketing. She recently purchased a $36,000 computerized cash register that keeps track of the customer rewards/points system.

"What I am is community-driven, grassroots," Schupman said. "I can tailor to what I want."

Two products you'll find in any Hallmark store are the popular Hallmark Christmas collection ornaments and Hallmark-branded greeting cards. There is a large gift selection as well, but&nbsp;Schupman does not have the flexibility to price her Hallmark-branded products, which are pre-priced.

All three speakers stressed a potential franchisee owner should be sure it's something they really want to do. Kuehl and Schupman likened being a franchise owner to being married.

"It also involves your entire family. It's your life," Kuehl said. "It's not a hobby."

"You have to be flexible," Schupman added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695826751850.jpeg" alt="James Younger, Kathy Schupman, and Jamie Kuehl discuss franchise ownership during Tuesday's Trispective hosted by Grow Hays. Photo and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>James Younger, Kathy Schupman, and Jamie Kuehl discuss franchise ownership during Tuesday's Trispective hosted by Grow Hays. Photo and video by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER&nbsp; Hays PostThe pros and cons of being a franchise owner in Hays were discussed by three local business people at Tuesday's Trispective hosted by Grow Hays.Business creation and business retention are part of the mission of Grow Hays, said Doug Williams, executive director, and franchises are included in both areas.&nbsp;"In my mind, a franchise is the opportunity to take a proven business model that's been replicated in many places and put that in place in a particular market," Williams said.The panelists each had their own relationship with franchise opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jamie Kuehl, a Hays native now living in Dodge City, is owner/operator of the two McDonald's restaurants in Hays, one each in WaKeeney, Russell, as well two in Dodge City.His parents, Rick and Gail Kuehl, moved to Hays to open the first McDonald's franchise in 1979. His grandfather owned the chain's 71st store, which was built in the St. Louis, Mo., area.&nbsp;Although he wasn't interested in it when he was young, Kuehl ultimately decided to join the family business as a next-generational operator.&nbsp;That process requires a seven-year training program with McDonald's. A franchise lease is for 20 years and costs $45,000.&nbsp;"I realized I wanted to be in business for myself, be an entrepreneur,"&nbsp; Kuehl said.One of the best-known franchises in the world, McDonald's has a lot of power."Jamie's Burger Shack wouldn't sell very many hamburgers,"&nbsp;Kuehl said. "The global power of McDonald's brings a lot to the table, not only in national and local marketing, but in purchasing power for product."The biggest challenge for Kuehl in the towns where he has restaurants is staffing.It was a problem echoed by Kathy Schupman, owner of Kat's Hallmark Shop in downtown Hays and by James Younger, property manager at Big Creek Crossing, 2918 Vine, who works with franchisees in the shopping center.Kuehl referred to a 20-year-old study that predicted the current scenario of more job availabilities than people to fill them. The COVID pandemic compounded the problem.Kuehl estimated his labor costs have jumped $3 million in the past two years. Commodity costs are also up."That's why those burger prices keep climbing, just like everything else," he said.He also pointed out to potential franchisees that McDonald's owns the land and the building its restaurants occupy.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CYxWuk-_AlU" title="Jamie Kuehl on franchise ownership" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The three panelists also stressed that anyone considering buying a franchise must do their due diligence and read the fine print of the franchise agreement.Younger helps guide his potential mall lessees in the right direction, whether they're permanent, seasonal or temporary.&nbsp;"Do they have a feasibility study, a marketing study? As a leasing agent, my approach is not we can't, but how can we," he said.Non-permanent franchise agreements are a "less expensive way to get into entrepreneurship," Younger said. Younger said franchises appreciate that Hays is investing in new schools, has a low crime rate and has respected major employers. "But many franchises want 50, 60, 100 employees, and with an unemployment rate of less than 2 percent, that's hard to find. We also have a lack of affordable housing for people who move to Hays to work those jobs," he said.The role of indoor malls has changed dramatically in the American business landscape.Many stores want their own outside entrance with branding on the building. There are also fewer anchor businesses."The leasing process for Big Creek Crossing is anywhere from six to 12 months. Each case is different in negotiating for space," Younger said. He estimated 10 to 15 percent of the current tenants are franchises.Schupman offered a different perspective on the importance of location.Hallmark is not a franchise. In order to use the national brand name, Schupman first had to prove she had $500,000 in assets. Although there is not an upfront buy-in for the five-year lease, she pays a monthly advertising fee to Hallmark.Schupman's shop was first located in Big Creek Crossing, where she found many potential customers to be young teenagers uninterested in the Hallmark name and older walkers exercising, uninterested in shopping.She then moved to the strip mall, Tebo Village, north of Interstate 70 at 48th and Vine, where she had many out-of-state customers in addition to her dedicated area clientele.After six years, she needed a bigger store and&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/44c966e4-c112-4fbb-aa7a-0de780de4f16">moved to&nbsp;downtown Hays</a>,&nbsp;1003 Main, on June 14. The relocation took Hallmark several months to approve.&nbsp;Schupman said the new store site does get more foot traffic and called the downtown atmosphere "wonderful."Williams noted downtown locales typically don't attract franchises or branded stores.One of the most positive aspects of her business is the well-known Hallmark brand and quality and Schupman's ability to do local marketing. She recently purchased a $36,000 computerized cash register that keeps track of the customer rewards/points system."What I am is community-driven, grassroots," Schupman said. "I can tailor to what I want."Two products you'll find in any Hallmark store are the popular Hallmark Christmas collection ornaments and Hallmark-branded greeting cards. There is a large gift selection as well, but&nbsp;Schupman does not have the flexibility to price her Hallmark-branded products, which are pre-priced.All three speakers stressed a potential franchisee owner should be sure it's something they really want to do. Kuehl and Schupman likened being a franchise owner to being married."It also involves your entire family. It's your life," Kuehl said. "It's not a hobby.""You have to be flexible," Schupman added.

🎥 Grow Hays panel: Franchisees still small business owners

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Wednesday in Gove County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Dodge Ram driven by Robert C. Brown, 63, Colorado Springs, Colorado, was westbound on Interstate 70 approximately two miles east of County Road 18.&nbsp;

The pickup rear-ended a 2023 Freightliner semi driven by Nathan Carl Jenkins, 43, of Colorado.

EMS transported Brown to the Logan County Hospital. Jenkins was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp;Westbound I-70 was shut down temporarily to remove the semi.

GOVE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2a.m. Wednesday in Gove County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Dodge Ram driven by Robert C. Brown, 63, Colorado Springs, Colorado, was westbound on Interstate 70 approximately two miles east of County Road 18.&nbsp;The pickup rear-ended a 2023 Freightliner semi driven by Nathan Carl Jenkins, 43, of Colorado.EMS transported Brown to the Logan County Hospital. Jenkins was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp;Westbound I-70 was shut down temporarily to remove the semi.

Driver hospitalized after pickup rear-ends semi on I-70

Congratulations to this year’s Homecoming Royalty Finalists! 

Finalists were selected after a rigorous review of all nominees. This year, there were 84 Homecoming Royalty nominees representing a variety of student organizations and groups. Each nominee’s application was scored by members of the Homecoming Coordinating Committee in order to select the top six finalists for king and queen.

This year’s Homecoming Royalty Finalists are:

Morgan Barba, representing Sigma Alpha Sorority&nbsp; Ella Burrows, representing Student Government Association 

Evann Deal, representing Delta Zeta Sorority Jessalyn Kirchoff, representing Tiger Media Network Abigail Miller, representing Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority Meagan Ritsma, representing Alpha Kappa Psi &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Nate Egan, representing Alpha Kappa Psi Storm Flores, representing Criminal Justice Club Reed McNett, representing Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Parker Opat, representing Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Tim Post, representing Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity Austin Ruff, representing Student Government Association &nbsp;

The Homecoming Week festivities will kick off with a DIY Game Day Button event sponsored by Student Engagement.&nbsp;This event will take place on Thursday, Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and will include a variety of activities to prepare for Tiger Game Day and a chance to meet the homecoming royalty. Join us for fun and food.

The student body vote will take place from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27 until noon Friday, Sept. 29 on TigerLink. Students can also vote in the Memorial Union from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sept. 27, 28, and 29.

The Royalty Finalists will lead the Victor E. March to the Bonfire and be introduced on Thursday, Sept. 28. The Victor E. March starts at 7:30 p.m. at Hammond Hall and will march up the road to the Tiger Bonfire.

Royalty Finalists will also participate in the homecoming parade through downtown Hays on Saturday, Sept. 30. The parade starts at 11 a.m.

The King and Queen will be announced at halftime of the homecoming football game against Lincoln University on Saturday, Sept. 30.&nbsp;The football game kickoff time is 7 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695395369076.png" alt="FHSU 2023 homecoming candidates. Photos by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>FHSU 2023 homecoming candidates. Photos by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsCongratulations to this year’s Homecoming Royalty Finalists! Finalists were selected after a rigorous review of all nominees. This year, there were 84 Homecoming Royalty nominees representing a variety of student organizations and groups. Each nominee’s application was scored by members of the Homecoming Coordinating Committee in order to select the top six finalists for king and queen.This year’s Homecoming Royalty Finalists are:Queen Finalists:&nbsp;Morgan Barba, representing Sigma Alpha Sorority&nbsp; Ella Burrows, representing Student Government Association 

Evann Deal, representing Delta Zeta Sorority Jessalyn Kirchoff, representing Tiger Media Network Abigail Miller, representing Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority Meagan Ritsma, representing Alpha Kappa Psi &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;King Finalists:&nbsp;Nate Egan, representing Alpha Kappa Psi Storm Flores, representing Criminal Justice Club Reed McNett, representing Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Parker Opat, representing Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Tim Post, representing Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity Austin Ruff, representing Student Government Association &nbsp; The Homecoming Week festivities will kick off with a DIY Game Day Button event sponsored by Student Engagement.&nbsp;This event will take place on Thursday, Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and will include a variety of activities to prepare for Tiger Game Day and a chance to meet the homecoming royalty. Join us for fun and food.The student body vote will take place from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27 until noon Friday, Sept. 29 on TigerLink. Students can also vote in the Memorial Union from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sept. 27, 28, and 29.The Royalty Finalists will lead the Victor E. March to the Bonfire and be introduced on Thursday, Sept. 28. The Victor E. March starts at 7:30 p.m. at Hammond Hall and will march up the road to the Tiger Bonfire.Royalty Finalists will also participate in the homecoming parade through downtown Hays on Saturday, Sept. 30. The parade starts at 11 a.m.The King and Queen will be announced at halftime of the homecoming football game against Lincoln University on Saturday, Sept. 30.&nbsp;The football game kickoff time is 7 p.m.

FHSU Homecoming 2023 royalty finalists announced

Fort Hays State University will celebrate the newly completed Wilmer and Lorena Kellogg Training Center, home of the FHSU Shotgun team, during a special ribbon cutting at the Hays City Sportsmen’s Club,&nbsp;5810 230th Ave., on Friday, September 29, at 9:00 a.m. 

The public is invited to attend and honor these committed students and the donors who made the facility possible. &nbsp;

The new Kellogg Training Center, located north of town at the Hays City Sportsmen’s Club, is a game-changer for Fort Hays State’s nationally recognized shotgun sports team. Attendees will hear from President Dr. Tisa Mason and members of the FHSU Shotgun team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695654751574.jpeg" alt="Groundbreaking for the&nbsp;Wilmer and Lorena Kellogg Training Center, home of the FHSU Shotgun team. FHSU photo" />
 <figcaption>Groundbreaking for the&nbsp;Wilmer and Lorena Kellogg Training Center, home of the FHSU Shotgun team. FHSU photo</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;FHSU University RelationsFort Hays State University will celebrate the newly completed Wilmer and Lorena Kellogg Training Center, home of the FHSU Shotgun team, during a special ribbon cutting at the Hays City Sportsmen’s Club,&nbsp;5810 230th Ave., on Friday, September 29, at 9:00 a.m. The public is invited to attend and honor these committed students and the donors who made the facility possible. &nbsp;The new Kellogg Training Center, located north of town at the Hays City Sportsmen’s Club, is a game-changer for Fort Hays State’s nationally recognized shotgun sports team. Attendees will hear from President Dr. Tisa Mason and members of the FHSU Shotgun team.

FHSU shotgun facility ribbon cutting set for Friday

HaysMed is pleased to announce the latest addition to our exceptional team of healthcare providers, Shayla Jenkins, MD. Dr. Jenkins adds yet another provider of family medicine to our community, and we are excited to have her on board.

Dr. Jenkins is a board-certified family medicine physician who completed her medical education at The University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City/Wichita, Kansas. She completed her residency at McKay-Dee Family Medicine Residency, Ogden, Utah. In addition,&nbsp; Dr. Jenkins also has training in sports medicine and behavioral health.

As a family medicine specialist, Dr. Jenkins will provide a wide range of services to individuals and families of all ages, including:

• Preventive care and wellness exams • Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses • Management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma • Immunizations and vaccinations for all age groups

Bryan Brady, vice president of Physician Practice Administration &amp; Ancillary Services at HaysMed, expressed his enthusiasm about Dr. Jenkins joining the HaysMed team, saying, "Family medicine providers play a crucial role in delivering comprehensive healthcare to our community. With Dr. Jenkins on board, we are excited to expand our capacity to provide primary care services to the area. Her dedication to patient care makes her a valuable addition to our team."

Dr. Jenkins, who is originally from Kansas, expressed her excitement about returning to her home state and joining HaysMed, stating, “I am excited to return back home to experience the privilege of caring for my fellow Kansans.”

Dr. Jenkins is currently accepting new patients. You can schedule appointments by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/request-an-appointment/" target="_blank">request an appointment</a>&nbsp;or calling 785-623-5095.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695318801466.jpeg" alt="Shayla Jenkins, M.D. Photo courtesy HaysMed&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shayla Jenkins, M.D. Photo courtesy HaysMed&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HAYSMEDHaysMed is pleased to announce the latest addition to our exceptional team of healthcare providers, Shayla Jenkins, MD. Dr. Jenkins adds yet another provider of family medicine to our community, and we are excited to have her on board.Dr. Jenkins is a board-certified family medicine physician who completed her medical education at The University of Kansas School of Medicine in Kansas City/Wichita, Kansas. She completed her residency at McKay-Dee Family Medicine Residency, Ogden, Utah. In addition,&nbsp; Dr. Jenkins also has training in sports medicine and behavioral health.As a family medicine specialist, Dr. Jenkins will provide a wide range of services to individuals and families of all ages, including:• Preventive care and wellness exams • Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses • Management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma • Immunizations and vaccinations for all age groups Bryan Brady, vice president of Physician Practice Administration &amp; Ancillary Services at HaysMed, expressed his enthusiasm about Dr. Jenkins joining the HaysMed team, saying, "Family medicine providers play a crucial role in delivering comprehensive healthcare to our community. With Dr. Jenkins on board, we are excited to expand our capacity to provide primary care services to the area. Her dedication to patient care makes her a valuable addition to our team."Dr. Jenkins, who is originally from Kansas, expressed her excitement about returning to her home state and joining HaysMed, stating, “I am excited to return back home to experience the privilege of caring for my fellow Kansans.”Dr. Jenkins is currently accepting new patients. You can schedule appointments by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysmed.com/request-an-appointment/" target="_blank">request an appointment</a>&nbsp;or calling 785-623-5095.

 New family medicine physician joins HaysMed

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Following a vote at the September 8 meeting of the Kansas State University Foundation's board of trustees in Manhattan, two members were reelected to a three-year term on the foundation's board of directors, two members were newly&nbsp;elected to the board of directors and 35 new members, including a Hays resident, were elected to four-year terms on its board of trustees. Additionally, 82 members were reelected to the board of trustees.

The KSU Foundation now has 346 trustees serving as the university's premier advocates, ambassadors and investors. The KSU Foundation's board of directors oversees management, control and supervision of the KSU Foundation's business and affairs.

Reelected to the board of directors were Leanne Caret,&nbsp;Argyle, Texas, and&nbsp;Sue Barsamian,&nbsp;Park City, Utah. 

Mark Gardiner,&nbsp;Ashland,&nbsp;and&nbsp;John Buser,&nbsp;Dallas, Texas,&nbsp;were&nbsp;each&nbsp;elected to their first three-year term on the board of directors. Buser received his bachelor's degree in accounting from Kansas State University's College of Business Administration. Gardiner received his bachelor's degree in animal science and industry from&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;College of Agriculture.

The following individuals were elected to the board of trustees for the first time: John and Lynda Tobald,&nbsp;Glasco; Kathleen Parke,&nbsp;Hays;&nbsp;Randy McGrath,&nbsp;Lawrence; Larry Durant and Brian Britton,&nbsp;Cindy Wallis-Lage and Kent Lage, and&nbsp;Dale and Christina Silvius,&nbsp;all from&nbsp;Leawood; David and Janet Oswalt,&nbsp;Lenexa; Tanner and Kelsi Coble, David and Lynda Dawson,&nbsp;and&nbsp;John and Shawn Lagemann,&nbsp;all from&nbsp;Olathe; and&nbsp;Steve and Connie Brown, Robert and Laura Sidlinger,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tracy and Kipp Van Camp,&nbsp;all from&nbsp;Topeka;

From out of state:&nbsp;Shelley Casagrande,&nbsp;Castle Pines, Colorado; Renee Laird,&nbsp;Castle Rock, Colorado; Deb McCullough,&nbsp;Parker, Colorado; Jim and Marsha Reed,&nbsp;Naples, Florida; Norman Anderson, Indianola, Iowa;&nbsp;Dusty Garner,&nbsp;New York, New York;&nbsp;Jim and Jada Hill,&nbsp;Cincinnati, Ohio;&nbsp;John and Leslie Martin,&nbsp;Bluffton, South Carolina;

Reelected to the board of trustees were the following: Lyndsey and Liz Barclay, Sue Barsamian, John and Nancy Blackwell, Cheryl Blake, Lee Borck and Jackie Hartman Borck, Karen Campbell, Charlie and Marla Chandler, Nancy Chiou-Siepman, Craig and Kate Cillessen, Jim and Ann Coen, Ray and Alysia Dempsey, Dave and Ellie Everitt, Rick and Linda Fornelli, Curt and Sherry Frasier, Janie Gamba Massey, Gary and Victoria Grimes, Lee and Barb Harris, Pat and Jill Harrison, Gabe Hernandez, Don and Gretta Hoffman, Keith and Debra Houghton, Carolyn Jackson, Phil and Shelly Kirk, Kurt and Jill Kolbeck, Rick Malir and Bonnie Coley-Malir, Joe Miller and Louise Burke, Leo and Amy Sue Nunnink, Mike and Judy O'Brate, Pat Parke, Tom and Connie Paulson, Karen Pence, Cory and Kendra Ramsey, Robert and Becca Reichenberger, Tim and Holly Roberts, Larry and Barbara Schulte, Ken Selzer and Deb Grimes, Tim and Sharon Taylor, Steve and Kay Theede, Marty Vanier, Jay and Jan Vavricek, Mike and Renee Walczak, Jerry and Robin Westhoff, Mark and Chris Whitehead, Don Wilbur, Meg and Kris Yaege, and Mark and Kim Young.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695301538291.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSU News ServiceMANHATTAN —&nbsp;Following a vote at the September 8 meeting of the Kansas State University Foundation's board of trustees in Manhattan, two members were reelected to a three-year term on the foundation's board of directors, two members were newly&nbsp;elected to the board of directors and 35 new members, including a Hays resident, were elected to four-year terms on its board of trustees. Additionally, 82 members were reelected to the board of trustees.The KSU Foundation now has 346 trustees serving as the university's premier advocates, ambassadors and investors. The KSU Foundation's board of directors oversees management, control and supervision of the KSU Foundation's business and affairs.Reelected to the board of directors were Leanne Caret,&nbsp;Argyle, Texas, and&nbsp;Sue Barsamian,&nbsp;Park City, Utah. Mark Gardiner,&nbsp;Ashland,&nbsp;and&nbsp;John Buser,&nbsp;Dallas, Texas,&nbsp;were&nbsp;each&nbsp;elected to their first three-year term on the board of directors. Buser received his bachelor's degree in accounting from Kansas State University's College of Business Administration. Gardiner received his bachelor's degree in animal science and industry from&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;College of Agriculture.The following individuals were elected to the board of trustees for the first time: John and Lynda Tobald,&nbsp;Glasco; Kathleen Parke,&nbsp;Hays;&nbsp;Randy McGrath,&nbsp;Lawrence; Larry Durant and Brian Britton,&nbsp;Cindy Wallis-Lage and Kent Lage, and&nbsp;Dale and Christina Silvius,&nbsp;all from&nbsp;Leawood; David and Janet Oswalt,&nbsp;Lenexa; Tanner and Kelsi Coble, David and Lynda Dawson,&nbsp;and&nbsp;John and Shawn Lagemann,&nbsp;all from&nbsp;Olathe; and&nbsp;Steve and Connie Brown, Robert and Laura Sidlinger,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tracy and Kipp Van Camp,&nbsp;all from&nbsp;Topeka; From out of state:&nbsp;Shelley Casagrande,&nbsp;Castle Pines, Colorado; Renee Laird,&nbsp;Castle Rock, Colorado; Deb McCullough,&nbsp;Parker, Colorado; Jim and Marsha Reed,&nbsp;Naples, Florida; Norman Anderson, Indianola, Iowa;&nbsp;Dusty Garner,&nbsp;New York, New York;&nbsp;Jim and Jada Hill,&nbsp;Cincinnati, Ohio;&nbsp;John and Leslie Martin,&nbsp;Bluffton, South Carolina;Reelected to the board of trustees were the following: Lyndsey and Liz Barclay, Sue Barsamian, John and Nancy Blackwell, Cheryl Blake, Lee Borck and Jackie Hartman Borck, Karen Campbell, Charlie and Marla Chandler, Nancy Chiou-Siepman, Craig and Kate Cillessen, Jim and Ann Coen, Ray and Alysia Dempsey, Dave and Ellie Everitt, Rick and Linda Fornelli, Curt and Sherry Frasier, Janie Gamba Massey, Gary and Victoria Grimes, Lee and Barb Harris, Pat and Jill Harrison, Gabe Hernandez, Don and Gretta Hoffman, Keith and Debra Houghton, Carolyn Jackson, Phil and Shelly Kirk, Kurt and Jill Kolbeck, Rick Malir and Bonnie Coley-Malir, Joe Miller and Louise Burke, Leo and Amy Sue Nunnink, Mike and Judy O'Brate, Pat Parke, Tom and Connie Paulson, Karen Pence, Cory and Kendra Ramsey, Robert and Becca Reichenberger, Tim and Holly Roberts, Larry and Barbara Schulte, Ken Selzer and Deb Grimes, Tim and Sharon Taylor, Steve and Kay Theede, Marty Vanier, Jay and Jan Vavricek, Mike and Renee Walczak, Jerry and Robin Westhoff, Mark and Chris Whitehead, Don Wilbur, Meg and Kris Yaege, and Mark and Kim Young.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays resident elected as new KSU Foundation member

FHSU’s Astronomy Club will set up telescopes at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center on Oct. 6, giving students and other observers the chance to see the Andromeda (M31) galaxy as well as other deep-sky objects. 

Led by Dr. Jack Maseberg, associate professor of physics, and Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, this event is a non-formal opportunity for the public to learn more about the objects in our galaxy.

In addition to the Andromeda Galaxy, a barred spiral galaxy approximately 2.5 million light-years from Earth, the telescopes will be pointed toward Jupiter, Saturn, and nearby M32, M110, M2, M13, M15, and M45 galaxies.

Kody Kirk, 2019 KAMS graduate, will also set up an astrophotography station that looks at specific kinds of hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur in deep-sky objects that produce unique images in the sky.

This event is open to the general public from 8:30-10 p.m. Refreshments and storytelling will help create a fun evening for all.

The Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms, 592 NE K-156 Hwy., Great Bend, KS 67530.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFGAsRGoL0-2FbjeliW-2Fj2r2aNIeZS-2B4-2BIyzaQbuh7JNMEdJew_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbBsZq80pmIc0vTnzBeErgalB8mbrr61kLczozt7rqCnSO2rjMKCUz31-2BfnYATnXoBBCdMsIFtX-2Btvt6M-2BgEBYRjocle2vp-2BQv8mBPkwXO8-2FhZIwp-2BcKHnwIt7PO9dVw7-2Fgu34Lpu4Bbmhv9XyN2ilgGnxFgIVJHjrsFEwZMLl7LFurUtECsTm2LcJuuDMYHGs9pl9TP4bKTKJcNzgFJPpIZVfs78Y4xFhs8E2fBl8uqXhsAomBe7FhtNpnVYIZntO8wSnZACM9aPJdNRuTxOIOw-3D-3D" target="_blank">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695301991040.jpeg" alt="Photo by Kansas Wetlands Education Center" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Kansas Wetlands Education Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By FHSU University CommunicationsFHSU’s Astronomy Club will set up telescopes at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center on Oct. 6, giving students and other observers the chance to see the Andromeda (M31) galaxy as well as other deep-sky objects. Led by Dr. Jack Maseberg, associate professor of physics, and Dr. Paul Adams, dean of the College of Education, this event is a non-formal opportunity for the public to learn more about the objects in our galaxy.In addition to the Andromeda Galaxy, a barred spiral galaxy approximately 2.5 million light-years from Earth, the telescopes will be pointed toward Jupiter, Saturn, and nearby M32, M110, M2, M13, M15, and M45 galaxies.Kody Kirk, 2019 KAMS graduate, will also set up an astrophotography station that looks at specific kinds of hydrogen, oxygen, and sulfur in deep-sky objects that produce unique images in the sky.This event is open to the general public from 8:30-10 p.m. Refreshments and storytelling will help create a fun evening for all.The Kansas Wetlands Education Center, affiliated with FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is located 10 miles northeast of Great Bend along Kansas Highway 156 at Cheyenne Bottoms, 592 NE K-156 Hwy., Great Bend, KS 67530.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=AzU7JuM9gNoo13mIpsUPJFGAsRGoL0-2FbjeliW-2Fj2r2aNIeZS-2B4-2BIyzaQbuh7JNMEdJew_scuE6QATIAo5tLVPwSgAru2c-2BhK2yoyXg2bmw7NiE0fAh1KPMZMELOQP7nofz6yYQ-2Bqf093MhwFAtRepL8jHlz54IAfPLuFjTL9o8QdaXZuZ89uG8p7HAdjtWBhgDXVbBsZq80pmIc0vTnzBeErgalB8mbrr61kLczozt7rqCnSO2rjMKCUz31-2BfnYATnXoBBCdMsIFtX-2Btvt6M-2BgEBYRjocle2vp-2BQv8mBPkwXO8-2FhZIwp-2BcKHnwIt7PO9dVw7-2Fgu34Lpu4Bbmhv9XyN2ilgGnxFgIVJHjrsFEwZMLl7LFurUtECsTm2LcJuuDMYHGs9pl9TP4bKTKJcNzgFJPpIZVfs78Y4xFhs8E2fBl8uqXhsAomBe7FhtNpnVYIZntO8wSnZACM9aPJdNRuTxOIOw-3D-3D" target="_blank">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call 1-877-243-9268.

Kansas Wetlands Education Center to host star-gazing event

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695753483573.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

🎥 Green and Growing: Mulching options

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The arrival of fall does not mean the end of the severe weather season. Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued Tuesday evening in portions of Rush and Pawnee counties. Photos of a funnel on the ground near Alexander between Rush Center and Ness City generated lots of debate: was it a landspout or a tornado? Chance Hayes, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Wichita, said it was a landspout and explained the difference.

"They are similar in that they're both rotating columns of air in contact with the ground," he said. "The difference between a true tornado and what we consider a landspout is the type of storm it comes from."

Tornadoes come from supercell thunderstorms that contain a rotating updraft. That updraft, Hayes said, is merely air rising into the atmosphere and spinning as it does. Landspouts typically occur at the beginning of a storm when the white and puffy cumulus clouds begin to rise and pull any circulation along the ground up with them.

Hayes said that's likely what was photographed Tuesday in Rush County, and because landspouts are not powerful, tornado warnings are typically not issued. 

"Because there is such a low threat to structures, and an even lower threat to lives, we don't feel like all the bells and whistles need to be sounded because it's so much weaker than a typical tornado that we will issue a special weather statement," Hayes said.

Hayes said landspouts may cause damage to trampolines that are not anchored or to old structures like barns or sheds. Should a landspout move into a heavily populated area that may experience more damage or flying debris, the National Weather Service may choose to issue a stronger warning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695654258727.jpeg" alt="Lindsey Broin captured this photo of a landspout near Alexander on Tuesday, Sept. 19.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lindsey Broin captured this photo of a landspout near Alexander on Tuesday, Sept. 19.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe arrival of fall does not mean the end of the severe weather season. Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued Tuesday evening in portions of Rush and Pawnee counties. Photos of a funnel on the ground near Alexander between Rush Center and Ness City generated lots of debate: was it a landspout or a tornado? Chance Hayes, Warning Coordination Meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Wichita, said it was a landspout and explained the difference."They are similar in that they're both rotating columns of air in contact with the ground," he said. "The difference between a true tornado and what we consider a landspout is the type of storm it comes from."Tornadoes come from supercell thunderstorms that contain a rotating updraft. That updraft, Hayes said, is merely air rising into the atmosphere and spinning as it does. Landspouts typically occur at the beginning of a storm when the white and puffy cumulus clouds begin to rise and pull any circulation along the ground up with them.Hayes said that's likely what was photographed Tuesday in Rush County, and because landspouts are not powerful, tornado warnings are typically not issued. "Because there is such a low threat to structures, and an even lower threat to lives, we don't feel like all the bells and whistles need to be sounded because it's so much weaker than a typical tornado that we will issue a special weather statement," Hayes said.Hayes said landspouts may cause damage to trampolines that are not anchored or to old structures like barns or sheds. Should a landspout move into a heavily populated area that may experience more damage or flying debris, the National Weather Service may choose to issue a stronger warning.

National Weather Service explains landspout spotted in Rush Co.

Government surplus commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th Street, on Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.&nbsp;Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.

Commodities will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis until gone.

To be eligible for commodities, a household's total monthly income must be below:

&nbsp;$1,580 Household of one $2,137 Household of two $2,694 Household of three $3,250 Household of four $3,807 Household of five $4,364 Household of six $4,921 Household of seven $5,478 Household of eight *Add $557 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: tomato soup, green beans, peaches, rice, walnuts, garbanzo beans, cheese, almonds, spaghetti, UHT milk, pork, pulled pork, dates, mixed vegetables, salmon, strawberries, and chicken drumsticks.

Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader, with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695303258524.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGovernment surplus commodities will be distributed in Hays at Unite Free Store (inside The Gamers Guild), 200 E. 8th Street, on Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.&nbsp;Doors will not open until 7:30 a.m.Commodities will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis until gone.To be eligible for commodities, a household's total monthly income must be below:&nbsp;$1,580 Household of one $2,137 Household of two $2,694 Household of three $3,250 Household of four $3,807 Household of five $4,364 Household of six $4,921 Household of seven $5,478 Household of eight *Add $557 for each additional family member after eight Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be: tomato soup, green beans, peaches, rice, walnuts, garbanzo beans, cheese, almonds, spaghetti, UHT milk, pork, pulled pork, dates, mixed vegetables, salmon, strawberries, and chicken drumsticks.Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader, with any questions at 785-259-2539.&nbsp;&nbsp; Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/" target="_blank">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>

Government food commodities available in Hays on Sept. 27

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The plans for the new Hays High School include private bathrooms. Those plans have some local residents upset.&nbsp;

The design includes a large open doorway that opens into a bank of common-use sinks. Along the wall are a line of single-stall private toilets with locking doors that go from floor to ceiling.

Because each of the toilets is a private space, they can be used by both genders and adult staff members.

The private bathrooms will be available on both floors of the new two-story school. However, the traditional communal bathrooms will still account for more than two-thirds of the restrooms in school.

HHS Principal Shawn Henderson said he thinks the bathrooms will help reduce bullying. During a special school board meeting on Sept. 18, he said students have expressed support for the private bathrooms. They want to be able to have bowel movements in private, he said.

"How many people do I want to have around me when I have a bowel movement?" Henderson said. "... what equipment do you want those people around you to have?"

Henderson said he had concerns about mobile devices being used to make audio or video recordings of other students in communal bathrooms.&nbsp;

"Our students are vulnerable in a way that is hard for us to understand," Henderson said.&nbsp;

At the Sept. 18 meeting, retired Hays Middle School Principal Craig Pallister said traditional bathrooms were a problem when he worked as an administrator.

"I spent way too much time checking bathrooms and going through bathrooms trying to keep bathrooms calm and give privacy," he said.

Pallister said he talked to students—male and female— and those students said they supported the private bathrooms.

"They said to me, 'Sometimes I need my privacy whether I'm changing my shirt, having a bowel movement,'" he said.

At the middle school, Pallister said some students didn't go to the bathroom all day and it almost caused medical problems.

"Emotionally it's good for kids to have the same kind of privacy as adults," Pallister said.

Several residents and parents spoke at the school board meeting on Monday. Some supported the bathrooms, and others opposed them.

The critics of the bathrooms said they thought the bathrooms will be dangerous.

Ben Mettlen, parent, has an eighth-grade daughter who he said he had intended on sending to Hays High next year. However, in light of the bathrooms design in the new high school, he said he is reconsidering that decision.

"She has let me know about some of the things that have happened in the middle school bathrooms," Mettlen said. "There are going to be things that are not going to be able to be controlled."

He said his daughter told him students are vaping in the bathrooms and are doing things that are "very unseemly."

He said he is concerned male and female students will be intimate in the private bathroom stalls.&nbsp;

"It's going to be inevitable that there will be some assaults that happen," Mettlen said. "There is going to be some drug use that is going to happen.&nbsp;I believe there is going to be some responsibility on the people who are advocating for this and those who are voting for this."

School administrators said at the meeting the previous week that cameras would be mounted at the entrances of the bathrooms to monitor who is coming and going.

The bathrooms were discussed by the board on April 10. The school board has had updates on the progress of the high school design throughout the design work, the latest on Sept. 18. The school board never voted to accept or reject the private bathrooms, but they also never voted on any other room design.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f564071d-5044-453f-8442-251755f600c1">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays High School construction to begin in August; project on budget</a>

During this discussion in April, a representative of DLR, the district architectural firm, said the private bathrooms saved space and cost less than the traditional communal bathrooms.

Another speaker at the meeting Monday said, "We want the bathrooms to be safe. ... And there have been ways to do that forever. We don't need to change those ways.

"What happens when you get 14, 15-year-old girls and boys together? ... You're going to have problems," he said.

Ben Houchen, parent, said he is also concerned with safety. His two children who are students at HHS have told him about the problems with bullying in the current communal bathrooms.

"I'm sorry," he said. "I'm frustrated with this because I think this is a good plan."

Houchen said he has worked with high school children and spent time with his kid and their friends and the students are happy to be getting private space to use the bathroom.

"...not because they want to do drugs, not because they want to screw some other child in the bathroom. These are high schoolers. They're not looking for a bathroom for that," Houchen said. "They are excited about the possibility of safety and genuine privacy to remove themselves from the existing problem of bullying in these schools surrounding the bathroom spaces."

Houchen acknowledged some people in the room didn't agree with him, but those in the room didn't represent all the parents who have children at Hays High.

"This is a group of people who have a right to disagree, but who are not representative of the entire community," he said.

Houchen's wife, Nikki, said she believes in the staff at the high school and their ability to keep children safe.

"My daughter would prefer to be in a private stall bathroom," she said. "This is not an issue for me."

She added, "If the kids are saying this, then the taxpayers need to listen more to the kids."

Reese Barrick, Hays city commissioner, said he supported the new bathroom design. He has two children who attend Hays schools.

"I don't know how many people here have talked to their kids, but the idea of having spaces—restrooms—where they can have privacy is a big deal," he said. "If you've had kids who have been bullied in bathrooms, this is a big deal."

Barrick said he did not think students were planning to rape girls in the bathrooms.

"If that is what you think about our children, then I'm really disappointed that you think that's what our children are," he said.

Kent Ficken, Hays resident, also opposed the bathrooms.

"It's not just about private poop, it's about taking care of our young girls. We just ask you to take the whole community into consideration."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695745450411.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of the private bathrooms that are part of the design for the new Hays High School. The bathrooms have private toilet stalls and shared sinks. Image courtesy of USD 489" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of the private bathrooms that are part of the design for the new Hays High School. The bathrooms have private toilet stalls and shared sinks. Image courtesy of USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Superintendent addresses bathroom design concerns at new Hays High" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=ducq2-14b597f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe plans for the new Hays High School include private bathrooms. Those plans have some local residents upset.&nbsp;The design includes a large open doorway that opens into a bank of common-use sinks. Along the wall are a line of single-stall private toilets with locking doors that go from floor to ceiling.Because each of the toilets is a private space, they can be used by both genders and adult staff members.The private bathrooms will be available on both floors of the new two-story school. However, the traditional communal bathrooms will still account for more than two-thirds of the restrooms in school.HHS Principal Shawn Henderson said he thinks the bathrooms will help reduce bullying. During a special school board meeting on Sept. 18, he said students have expressed support for the private bathrooms. They want to be able to have bowel movements in private, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695745554359.png" alt="A conceptual drawing of the shared sinks that will accompany the private bathrooms at the new high school. The open doorway is to the left. Cameras will also monitor students coming and going from the space. Image courtesy of USD 489" />
 <figcaption>A conceptual drawing of the shared sinks that will accompany the private bathrooms at the new high school. The open doorway is to the left. Cameras will also monitor students coming and going from the space. Image courtesy of USD 489</figcaption>
 </figure>"How many people do I want to have around me when I have a bowel movement?" Henderson said. "... what equipment do you want those people around you to have?"Henderson said he had concerns about mobile devices being used to make audio or video recordings of other students in communal bathrooms.&nbsp;"Our students are vulnerable in a way that is hard for us to understand," Henderson said.&nbsp;At the Sept. 18 meeting, retired Hays Middle School Principal Craig Pallister said traditional bathrooms were a problem when he worked as an administrator.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695745281110.jpeg" alt="Audience members spoke for and against private bathrooms that are planned for the new Hays High School during the public comment session of Monday's Hays USD 489 school board meeting. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Audience members spoke for and against private bathrooms that are planned for the new Hays High School during the public comment session of Monday's Hays USD 489 school board meeting. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"I spent way too much time checking bathrooms and going through bathrooms trying to keep bathrooms calm and give privacy," he said.Pallister said he talked to students—male and female— and those students said they supported the private bathrooms."They said to me, 'Sometimes I need my privacy whether I'm changing my shirt, having a bowel movement,'" he said.At the middle school, Pallister said some students didn't go to the bathroom all day and it almost caused medical problems."Emotionally it's good for kids to have the same kind of privacy as adults," Pallister said.Several residents and parents spoke at the school board meeting on Monday. Some supported the bathrooms, and others opposed them.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695745763292.jpeg" alt="Hays USD 489 school board members listened to comments for and against private bathrooms that are proposed for the new Hays High School. Ground is set to be broken on the new school on Oct. 4. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays USD 489 school board members listened to comments for and against private bathrooms that are proposed for the new Hays High School. Ground is set to be broken on the new school on Oct. 4. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The critics of the bathrooms said they thought the bathrooms will be dangerous.Ben Mettlen, parent, has an eighth-grade daughter who he said he had intended on sending to Hays High next year. However, in light of the bathrooms design in the new high school, he said he is reconsidering that decision."She has let me know about some of the things that have happened in the middle school bathrooms," Mettlen said. "There are going to be things that are not going to be able to be controlled."He said his daughter told him students are vaping in the bathrooms and are doing things that are "very unseemly."He said he is concerned male and female students will be intimate in the private bathroom stalls.&nbsp;"It's going to be inevitable that there will be some assaults that happen," Mettlen said. "There is going to be some drug use that is going to happen.&nbsp;I believe there is going to be some responsibility on the people who are advocating for this and those who are voting for this."School administrators said at the meeting the previous week that cameras would be mounted at the entrances of the bathrooms to monitor who is coming and going.The bathrooms were discussed by the board on April 10. The school board has had updates on the progress of the high school design throughout the design work, the latest on Sept. 18. The school board never voted to accept or reject the private bathrooms, but they also never voted on any other room design.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/f564071d-5044-453f-8442-251755f600c1">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays High School construction to begin in August; project on budget</a>During this discussion in April, a representative of DLR, the district architectural firm, said the private bathrooms saved space and cost less than the traditional communal bathrooms.Another speaker at the meeting Monday said, "We want the bathrooms to be safe. ... And there have been ways to do that forever. We don't need to change those ways."What happens when you get 14, 15-year-old girls and boys together? ... You're going to have problems," he said.Ben Houchen, parent, said he is also concerned with safety. His two children who are students at HHS have told him about the problems with bullying in the current communal bathrooms."I'm sorry," he said. "I'm frustrated with this because I think this is a good plan."Houchen said he has worked with high school children and spent time with his kid and their friends and the students are happy to be getting private space to use the bathroom."...not because they want to do drugs, not because they want to screw some other child in the bathroom. These are high schoolers. They're not looking for a bathroom for that," Houchen said. "They are excited about the possibility of safety and genuine privacy to remove themselves from the existing problem of bullying in these schools surrounding the bathroom spaces."Houchen acknowledged some people in the room didn't agree with him, but those in the room didn't represent all the parents who have children at Hays High."This is a group of people who have a right to disagree, but who are not representative of the entire community," he said.Houchen's wife, Nikki, said she believes in the staff at the high school and their ability to keep children safe."My daughter would prefer to be in a private stall bathroom," she said. "This is not an issue for me."She added, "If the kids are saying this, then the taxpayers need to listen more to the kids."Reese Barrick, Hays city commissioner, said he supported the new bathroom design. He has two children who attend Hays schools."I don't know how many people here have talked to their kids, but the idea of having spaces—restrooms—where they can have privacy is a big deal," he said. "If you've had kids who have been bullied in bathrooms, this is a big deal."Barrick said he did not think students were planning to rape girls in the bathrooms."If that is what you think about our children, then I'm really disappointed that you think that's what our children are," he said.Kent Ficken, Hays resident, also opposed the bathrooms."It's not just about private poop, it's about taking care of our young girls. We just ask you to take the whole community into consideration."

Hays USD 489 board hears concerns about private bathrooms at new high school

RUSSELL —The “BREW ME” Craft Beer and Wine Festival in downtown Russell will be on Saturday, October 7.

Downtown Russell will be transformed into a beer and wine lover’s paradise with over 70 breweries and wineries showcasing their finest selections from around the region, along with live music and street tacos.&nbsp; 

For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, call 785-483-2897.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695743399589.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;SubmittedRUSSELL —The “BREW ME” Craft Beer and Wine Festival in downtown Russell will be on Saturday, October 7.Downtown Russell will be transformed into a beer and wine lover’s paradise with over 70 breweries and wineries showcasing their finest selections from around the region, along with live music and street tacos.&nbsp; For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, call 785-483-2897.

Enjoy 'Brew Me' craft beer, wine fest in Russell Oct. 7

TOPEKA — The Kansas Water Office’s&nbsp; Smoky Hill-Saline Regional Advisory Committee will have a meeting to discuss current water issues affecting the region as well as the state.

The meeting will be Monday, October 2 at 9:00 a.m. at 210 N. Kansas Ave., Ellsworth.

The agenda includes new member introductions, a discussion of the Hays R-9 transfer and regional event sharing.

The agenda and meeting materials can be found when available at&nbsp;kwo.ks.gov&nbsp;or you may request copies by calling 785-296-3185 or toll-free at 888-KAN-WATER (526-9283).

As the state’s water office, KWO conducts water planning, policy coordination and water marketing as well as facilitates public input throughout the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695247175442.png" alt="Kansas Water Office Regional Advisory Committee areas" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Water Office Regional Advisory Committee areas</figcaption>
 </figure>KWOTOPEKA — The Kansas Water Office’s&nbsp; Smoky Hill-Saline Regional Advisory Committee will have a meeting to discuss current water issues affecting the region as well as the state.The meeting will be Monday, October 2 at 9:00 a.m. at 210 N. Kansas Ave., Ellsworth.The agenda includes new member introductions, a discussion of the Hays R-9 transfer and regional event sharing.The agenda and meeting materials can be found when available at&nbsp;kwo.ks.gov&nbsp;or you may request copies by calling 785-296-3185 or toll-free at 888-KAN-WATER (526-9283).As the state’s water office, KWO conducts water planning, policy coordination and water marketing as well as facilitates public input throughout the state.

R-9 Ranch project to be discussed by Smoky Hill-Saline Regional Advisory Committee 

GREAT BEND — The Barton Performing Arts Department will host its annual “Autumn Arts” sneak preview concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. The show will feature performances by the Barton Music Department and Barton Dance Theatre. 

Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator Danika Bielek is excited to get the students onstage.

“The “Autumn Arts” concert is our students’ first chance to perform together in the formal setting of our Fine Arts Auditorium,” she said. “There is so much excitement from the performing ensembles to get out under the stage lights and do what they have prepared for. This year, parts of the program will include fun moments when the audience can interact with the performers. It will be a great time.”

Performing ensembles will give the audience a sneak preview of what the groups will be presenting this year. Groups who will take the stage include Hilltop Singers, Concert Choir, Prairie Winds Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Barton Dance Theatre.

For more information, contact Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley at 620-792-9395 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695238905850.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedGREAT BEND — The Barton Performing Arts Department will host its annual “Autumn Arts” sneak preview concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 in the Fine Arts Auditorium. The show will feature performances by the Barton Music Department and Barton Dance Theatre. Admission is free.Fine and Performing Arts Coordinator Danika Bielek is excited to get the students onstage.“The “Autumn Arts” concert is our students’ first chance to perform together in the formal setting of our Fine Arts Auditorium,” she said. “There is so much excitement from the performing ensembles to get out under the stage lights and do what they have prepared for. This year, parts of the program will include fun moments when the audience can interact with the performers. It will be a great time.”Performing ensembles will give the audience a sneak preview of what the groups will be presenting this year. Groups who will take the stage include Hilltop Singers, Concert Choir, Prairie Winds Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Barton Dance Theatre.For more information, contact Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Foley at 620-792-9395 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foleye@bartonccc.edu">foleye@bartonccc.edu</a>.

Barton Performing Arts presents 'Autumn Arts' preview concert with audience interaction

ELLIS — The theme for the 2023 Ellis Homecoming week is The Holidays.

The homecoming football game will be played on Friday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. against the Oakley Plainsmen. &nbsp;The parade will be on Friday afternoon starting at 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; Booster Club will host a BBQ from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Crowning will be at 6:30 p.m. and the homecoming dance will follow the football game.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695226323243.jpeg" alt="2023 Ellis High School homecoming royalty are (Back Row L to R): Layton Martinson, son of Robert Farr and Crystal Martinson; Logan Russell, son of Kenton and Jessica Russell; Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger.&nbsp;(Front Row L to R): Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Ava Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>2023 Ellis High School homecoming royalty are (Back Row L to R): Layton Martinson, son of Robert Farr and Crystal Martinson; Logan Russell, son of Kenton and Jessica Russell; Mason Younger, son of Aaron and Jennifer Younger.&nbsp;(Front Row L to R): Taylor Seibel, daughter of Craig and Becky Seibel; Jadyn Starns, daughter of Eric and Libby Starns; Ava Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedELLIS — The theme for the 2023 Ellis Homecoming week is The Holidays.The homecoming football game will be played on Friday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. against the Oakley Plainsmen. &nbsp;The parade will be on Friday afternoon starting at 2:30 p.m.&nbsp; Booster Club will host a BBQ from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.&nbsp; Crowning will be at 6:30 p.m. and the homecoming dance will follow the football game.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695226815085.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

2023 Ellis High School Homecoming Royalty announced

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly, alongside the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, announced the launch of the Build Kansas Fund, which provides state matching dollars to Kansas communities for infrastructure projects approved under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.&nbsp;

The Build Kansas Fund will invest $200 million directly into Kansas communities to support projects that include water, transportation, energy, cybersecurity, and broadband through Fiscal Year 2027.&nbsp;

“The Build Kansas Fund&nbsp;makes it possible for communities&nbsp;across the state&nbsp;to seize the tremendous opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” Kelly said. “These matching dollars empower our local leaders to forge ahead with projects that&nbsp;will grow our economy,&nbsp;connect&nbsp;people and businesses to&nbsp;high-speed internet,&nbsp;and&nbsp;build safer infrastructure&nbsp;that&nbsp;improves&nbsp;life for all Kansans.”&nbsp;

Governor Kelly announced the creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub in 2022 to ensure Kansas has an effective and efficient distribution of the funds received from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

The Kansas Infrastructure Hub, a coordinating body comprised of representatives from the Kansas Departments of Administration, Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Environment and Transportation, along with the Kansas Corporation Commission and the Kansas Water Office, will manage the Build Kansas Fund, offering technical assistance, tracking funds, and promoting grant opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Kansas Infrastructure Hub has been working diligently to unite cross-sector stakeholders around Kansas’ infrastructure priorities,”&nbsp;said Calvin Reed, secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation. “We look forward to supporting Build Kansas Fund applicants as they strive to optimize their BIL projects’ potential.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eligible entities include Kansas state agencies, counties, municipalities, special districts, community organizations, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes that have or intend to apply for a federal BIL program requiring a non-federal match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Build Kansas Fund Application is live. Entities can apply via the Kansas Infrastructure Hub website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NodWIub3JnL2tzLWluZnJhc3RydWN0dXJlLWh1Yi1idWlsZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTkuODI4MTcxMTEifQ.jHFM4Wc7NC8qs5eap64ebC8bnOapVZhMmavOf62fLtg/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">https://kshub.org/ks-infrastructure-hub-build</a>&nbsp;

To learn more about the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.1fYzePq0BelMvX889O1KO06E2fDKtQG3_Rc97Hk_GiI/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">kshub.org</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225954348.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly, alongside the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, announced the launch of the Build Kansas Fund, which provides state matching dollars to Kansas communities for infrastructure projects approved under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.&nbsp;The Build Kansas Fund will invest $200 million directly into Kansas communities to support projects that include water, transportation, energy, cybersecurity, and broadband through Fiscal Year 2027.&nbsp;“The Build Kansas Fund&nbsp;makes it possible for communities&nbsp;across the state&nbsp;to seize the tremendous opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” Kelly said. “These matching dollars empower our local leaders to forge ahead with projects that&nbsp;will grow our economy,&nbsp;connect&nbsp;people and businesses to&nbsp;high-speed internet,&nbsp;and&nbsp;build safer infrastructure&nbsp;that&nbsp;improves&nbsp;life for all Kansans.”&nbsp;Governor Kelly announced the creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub in 2022 to ensure Kansas has an effective and efficient distribution of the funds received from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Kansas Infrastructure Hub, a coordinating body comprised of representatives from the Kansas Departments of Administration, Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Environment and Transportation, along with the Kansas Corporation Commission and the Kansas Water Office, will manage the Build Kansas Fund, offering technical assistance, tracking funds, and promoting grant opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Kansas Infrastructure Hub has been working diligently to unite cross-sector stakeholders around Kansas’ infrastructure priorities,”&nbsp;said Calvin Reed, secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation. “We look forward to supporting Build Kansas Fund applicants as they strive to optimize their BIL projects’ potential.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Eligible entities include Kansas state agencies, counties, municipalities, special districts, community organizations, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes that have or intend to apply for a federal BIL program requiring a non-federal match.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Build Kansas Fund Application is live. Entities can apply via the Kansas Infrastructure Hub website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NodWIub3JnL2tzLWluZnJhc3RydWN0dXJlLWh1Yi1idWlsZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTkuODI4MTcxMTEifQ.jHFM4Wc7NC8qs5eap64ebC8bnOapVZhMmavOf62fLtg/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">https://kshub.org/ks-infrastructure-hub-build</a>&nbsp;To learn more about the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.1fYzePq0BelMvX889O1KO06E2fDKtQG3_Rc97Hk_GiI/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">kshub.org</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Build Kansas Fund will accelerate community infrastructure projects

RUSSELL – The Russell Masonic Lodge #177 is thrilled to announce the return of its spine-tingling annual event, "Haunted House Volume V: Atrocities of the Zodiac." 

This year's hair-raising experience is set to be the most chilling yet, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the haunted house committee, led by Jordan Harrison. 

The Haunted House Volume V will immerse visitors in the eerie and mysterious world of the "Ghosts of the Black Zodiac." Prepare to be mesmerized and terrified as you encounter the darkest, most otherworldly entities ever assembled under one roof.

Event Details Corner of 6th and Main Streets in Russell October 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, 29 7:00 to 11 p.m. The Russell Masonic Lodge #177 invites thrill-seekers, horror enthusiasts, and anyone brave enough to step into the Haunted House Volume V. Be prepared to confront your deepest fears and embark on a journey through the macabre, guided only by your courage.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with goosebumps and haunting memories. Mark your calendars, and make sure to bring your friends and family for a night of spine-tingling fun.

For additional information and updates, follow us on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RussellKSHauntedHouse">Russell, KS Masonic Lodge #177 Haunted House</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695230399499.jpeg" alt="Russell Masonic Lodge #177&nbsp;Haunted House Volume V: Atrocities of the Zodiac. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Russell Masonic Lodge #177&nbsp;Haunted House Volume V: Atrocities of the Zodiac. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedRUSSELL – The Russell Masonic Lodge #177 is thrilled to announce the return of its spine-tingling annual event, "Haunted House Volume V: Atrocities of the Zodiac." This year's hair-raising experience is set to be the most chilling yet, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the haunted house committee, led by Jordan Harrison. The Haunted House Volume V will immerse visitors in the eerie and mysterious world of the "Ghosts of the Black Zodiac." Prepare to be mesmerized and terrified as you encounter the darkest, most otherworldly entities ever assembled under one roof.Event Details Corner of 6th and Main Streets in Russell October 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, 29 7:00 to 11 p.m. The Russell Masonic Lodge #177 invites thrill-seekers, horror enthusiasts, and anyone brave enough to step into the Haunted House Volume V. Be prepared to confront your deepest fears and embark on a journey through the macabre, guided only by your courage.Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with goosebumps and haunting memories. Mark your calendars, and make sure to bring your friends and family for a night of spine-tingling fun.For additional information and updates, follow us on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RussellKSHauntedHouse">Russell, KS Masonic Lodge #177 Haunted House</a>.

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