Colby Community College is accepting applications for part-time Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Certified Medication Aide (CMA) instructors to provide high-quality education for students pursuing healthcare careers in the following communities:

Overview The CNA and CMA instructors will teach classes to prepare students to become certified professionals in long-term care and medication administration.

· Hold a current Kansas RN or LPN license in good standing, with no pending or current disciplinary actions.

· Have at least two years of full-time licensed experience.

· Possess one year of experience in a long-term care setting or have completed seven hours of professional continuing education on person-centered care in a licensed adult care home or long-term care unit of a hospital within the past year.

· Experience supervising nurse aides or teaching adults, with completion of a course in adult education or professional continuing education focused on supervision or adult education.

· CNA class (5 credit hours) is $3,250 with up to 10 students;

· CMA class (4-hours) is $2,600 with up to 6 students.

Application Process Positions will be open until filled. To be considered, submit a letter of application, resume, references, and postsecondary transcripts to:

Colby Community College ATTN: Human Resources 1255 S Range Ave Colby, KS 67701 Apply online or email materials to hr@colbycc.edu. For more information, please visit www.colbycc.edu/employment or contact Human Resources at (785) 460-5490.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726694055601.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Colby Community College is accepting applications for part-time Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) and Certified Medication Aide (CMA) instructors to provide high-quality education for students pursuing healthcare careers in the following communities:· Colby· Hoxie· Norton· Oakley· Oberlin· PhillipsburgOverview The CNA and CMA instructors will teach classes to prepare students to become certified professionals in long-term care and medication administration.Qualifications· Hold a current Kansas RN or LPN license in good standing, with no pending or current disciplinary actions.· Have at least two years of full-time licensed experience.· Possess one year of experience in a long-term care setting or have completed seven hours of professional continuing education on person-centered care in a licensed adult care home or long-term care unit of a hospital within the past year.· Experience supervising nurse aides or teaching adults, with completion of a course in adult education or professional continuing education focused on supervision or adult education.Compensation $650 per credit hour:· CNA class (5 credit hours) is $3,250 with up to 10 students;· CMA class (4-hours) is $2,600 with up to 6 students.Application Process Positions will be open until filled. To be considered, submit a letter of application, resume, references, and postsecondary transcripts to:Colby Community College ATTN: Human Resources 1255 S Range Ave Colby, KS 67701 Apply online or email materials to hr@colbycc.edu. For more information, please visit www.colbycc.edu/employment or contact Human Resources at (785) 460-5490.

🏈 FHSU game vs. Northeastern State moved up to 11am kickoff, fireworks postponed

TREGO COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Ram 1500 driven by Richard E.&nbsp;Hubbard, 73, Hill City, was westbound on Interstate 70 at the exit for U.S. 283.

The pickup left the roadway, entered the median, traveled down the embankment between the eastbound and westbound bridges and came to rest against a guardrail on U.S. 283.

EMS transported&nbsp;Hubbard to Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Wednesday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Ram 1500 driven by Richard E.&nbsp;Hubbard, 73, Hill City, was westbound on Interstate 70 at the exit for U.S. 283.The pickup left the roadway, entered the median, traveled down the embankment between the eastbound and westbound bridges and came to rest against a guardrail on U.S. 283.EMS transported&nbsp;Hubbard to Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man hospitalized after pickup crash

A portion of U.S. 281 in Russell County has been reopened to traffic as of today.

The 11-mile section between Land Road and the west K-18 junction has been closed since March for a Kansas Department of Transportation project to reconstruct the roadway into a 30-foot paved surface with 3-foot turf shoulders.

Construction crews will remain in the area to complete final work and cleanup. Motorists are reminded to buckle up, follow the speed limits and stay alert behind the wheel.

The $36 million project is the final part of the delayed T-WORKS project to rehabilitate and reconstruct the U.S. 281 corridor between Russell and K-18. Reconstruction of the initial 4 miles from Russell to Land Road was completed in late 2021.

KDOTA portion of U.S. 281 in Russell County has been reopened to traffic as of today.The 11-mile section between Land Road and the west K-18 junction has been closed since March for a Kansas Department of Transportation project to reconstruct the roadway into a 30-foot paved surface with 3-foot turf shoulders.Construction crews will remain in the area to complete final work and cleanup. Motorists are reminded to buckle up, follow the speed limits and stay alert behind the wheel.The $36 million project is the final part of the delayed T-WORKS project to rehabilitate and reconstruct the U.S. 281 corridor between Russell and K-18. Reconstruction of the initial 4 miles from Russell to Land Road was completed in late 2021.

Closed portion of U.S. 281 reopened in Russell County

Hays High Homecoming will be Oct. 11. See a schedule of activities below.

At Sunset on Thursday, Oct. 10, Hays High will have its annual bonfire. It will be in the field adjacent to the Hays High student parking lot at the front of the school. The ONLY entrance into the parking lot will be off of 13th&nbsp;st.&nbsp;Please park in the designated areas. The bonfire will conclude after a short program

At noon on Friday, Oct. 11 all alumni are welcome to attend this&nbsp;years&nbsp;Hays High&nbsp;Homecoming&nbsp;Showcase Assembly, we will be celebrating the past and celebrating the present of Hays High. Music will be presented by the HHS Chamber Singers, under the direction of Mr. Alex Underwood

After the Assembly will be an Alumni lunch in the HHS Cafeteria. For more information and cost please contact Laura Hertel: 785-623-0101

The Parade will take place on Oct. 11 and will go down Main St. starting at 16th&nbsp;St and proceeding to Fifth&nbsp;St.

The Line-Up will start at 4 p.m., and the parade will start at 5 p.m.

The Hays High StuCo is pleased to recognize Dustin Armbruster as this year’s Parade Grand Marshal. Armruster was selected for not only his presence on the radio for Hays High Athletic events, but also his excellence across the air waves as recognized with his Hod Humiston award in 2024. 

"We appreciate all the amazing work Dustin does for the Hays High Athletic Department but also the amazing work he does here in the Hays community and as a great husband to Wendy and father to his 3 daughters," a press release said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726692309680.jpeg" alt="Hays High Homecoming Royalty: Front Row (left to right): Kiera Dealy, Reaghan Wamser, Kallyn Meyers, Avery Solida, Dani Willeford.&nbsp;Back Row (left to right): LeRoy Goodspeed, Wyatt Kirkpatrick, Cooper L. Johnson, Oscar Flores, Feyden Hileman" />
 <figcaption>Hays High Homecoming Royalty: Front Row (left to right): Kiera Dealy, Reaghan Wamser, Kallyn Meyers, Avery Solida, Dani Willeford.&nbsp;Back Row (left to right): LeRoy Goodspeed, Wyatt Kirkpatrick, Cooper L. Johnson, Oscar Flores, Feyden Hileman</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays High Homecoming will be Oct. 11. See a schedule of activities below.Bonfire:At Sunset on Thursday, Oct. 10, Hays High will have its annual bonfire. It will be in the field adjacent to the Hays High student parking lot at the front of the school. The ONLY entrance into the parking lot will be off of 13th&nbsp;st.&nbsp;Please park in the designated areas. The bonfire will conclude after a short programAssembly:.At noon on Friday, Oct. 11 all alumni are welcome to attend this&nbsp;years&nbsp;Hays High&nbsp;Homecoming&nbsp;Showcase Assembly, we will be celebrating the past and celebrating the present of Hays High. Music will be presented by the HHS Chamber Singers, under the direction of Mr. Alex UnderwoodAfter the Assembly will be an Alumni lunch in the HHS Cafeteria. For more information and cost please contact Laura Hertel: 785-623-0101Parade:The Parade will take place on Oct. 11 and will go down Main St. starting at 16th&nbsp;St and proceeding to Fifth&nbsp;St.The Line-Up will start at 4 p.m., and the parade will start at 5 p.m.The Hays High StuCo is pleased to recognize Dustin Armbruster as this year’s Parade Grand Marshal. Armruster was selected for not only his presence on the radio for Hays High Athletic events, but also his excellence across the air waves as recognized with his Hod Humiston award in 2024. "We appreciate all the amazing work Dustin does for the Hays High Athletic Department but also the amazing work he does here in the Hays community and as a great husband to Wendy and father to his 3 daughters," a press release said.

Hays High announces fall 2024 Homecoming Royalty

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

A portion of 13th Street that was originally to be widened to three lanes for better traffic flow in connection with the construction of the new Hays High School will not be widened.&nbsp;

The current high school will be remodeled into a new middle school. The new high school is being built adjacent to the existing facility.&nbsp;

There was only one bidder on the 13th Street reconstruction project. The bid from APAC-Kansas, Hays, was about $500,000 over budget for the city’s share of the project.

Originally, 13th Street was to be widened from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway.

Jarrod Kuckelman, management analyst, said the project scope will be downsized. Thirteenth Street will be widened from Anthony Drive to Tallgrass Drive. At that point, the current two-lane road will remain in place east to Commerce Parkway. 

In the revised plan, box culvert work will not be necessary.

"There are no traffic safety concerns about the reduction," Kuckelman said. "We were most concerned about the Anthony to Tallgrass portion being widened to accommodate the anticipated traffic increase."

The city’s portion of the project is now $2.2 million, which is $61,000 under budget. The project will be funded with cash from city capital reserves, funds from Ellis County, a cost-share grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation and USD 489 funds.

City work includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installing a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project, and milling and overlaying the entire roadway.

USD 489’s portion of the project is $763,000.&nbsp; The total project cost is $3 million.&nbsp;

The school district will be responsible for the addition of two right-turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded signals at 13th and Canterbury.

&nbsp;The revised project is scheduled to be completed by the start of the fall 2025 school year when the new high school is set to open.

The city commission will discuss the bid award at its work session on Thursday.

The commission will also discuss funds for the 27th and Main Street development project. Astra Bank is relocating and building a new facility on that site.

&nbsp;The city will pay 100% of the costs to construct the stormwater management infrastructure and 50% of the costs to build 26th Street through the development. 

The $89,000 for the stormwater retention infrastructure would come from the stormwater reserve funds, and the $205,050 city share of the street is proposed to be taken from the city's capital reserve funds.

The city of Hays has purchased the existing Astra Bank building to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.

Commissioners also will discuss an ordinance that would establish a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) and adopt a plan for development of housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut.&nbsp;

Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is proposing to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.

The district would be expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during the maximum 25-year term. It would be made available to reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis. The RHID collection would end upon the earlier of 25 years or full reimbursement of all RHID-eligible project costs.

The commission will discuss funds for another development project in downtown Hays.

The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the city a $300,000 Commercial Rehabilitation Community Development Block Grant on behalf of Chestnut Suites&nbsp;at 1108 N. Main and Hays developer Adam Pray.

The former Hays State Bank building, which is being used for the project, was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.

Pray plans to redevelop the existing building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb location called Chestnut Suites with 24 to 26 rooms. The rooms will be designed similar to those of traditional hotels. 

The complete Sept. 19 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09192024-1503">here</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726670928493.png" alt="City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostA portion of 13th Street that was originally to be widened to three lanes for better traffic flow in connection with the construction of the new Hays High School will not be widened.&nbsp;The current high school will be remodeled into a new middle school. The new high school is being built adjacent to the existing facility.&nbsp;There was only one bidder on the 13th Street reconstruction project. The bid from APAC-Kansas, Hays, was about $500,000 over budget for the city’s share of the project.Originally, 13th Street was to be widened from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway.Jarrod Kuckelman, management analyst, said the project scope will be downsized. Thirteenth Street will be widened from Anthony Drive to Tallgrass Drive. At that point, the current two-lane road will remain in place east to Commerce Parkway. In the revised plan, box culvert work will not be necessary."There are no traffic safety concerns about the reduction," Kuckelman said. "We were most concerned about the Anthony to Tallgrass portion being widened to accommodate the anticipated traffic increase."The city’s portion of the project is now $2.2 million, which is $61,000 under budget. The project will be funded with cash from city capital reserves, funds from Ellis County, a cost-share grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation and USD 489 funds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726674867070.png" alt="East end of 13th Street reconstruction project.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>East end of 13th Street reconstruction project.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726675060651.png" alt="West end of 13th Street reconstruction project.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>West end of 13th Street reconstruction project.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>City work includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installing a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project, and milling and overlaying the entire roadway.USD 489’s portion of the project is $763,000.&nbsp; The total project cost is $3 million.&nbsp;The school district will be responsible for the addition of two right-turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded signals at 13th and Canterbury.&nbsp;The revised project is scheduled to be completed by the start of the fall 2025 school year when the new high school is set to open.The city commission will discuss the bid award at its work session on Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726677233865.png" alt="Location of new Astra Bank&nbsp; to be built at 27th and Main. City of Hays&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Location of new Astra Bank&nbsp; to be built at 27th and Main. City of Hays&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission will also discuss funds for the 27th and Main Street development project. Astra Bank is relocating and building a new facility on that site.&nbsp;The city will pay 100% of the costs to construct the stormwater management infrastructure and 50% of the costs to build 26th Street through the development. The $89,000 for the stormwater retention infrastructure would come from the stormwater reserve funds, and the $205,050 city share of the street is proposed to be taken from the city's capital reserve funds.The city of Hays has purchased the existing Astra Bank building to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726677068219.png" alt="10th and Walnut proposed housing development in downtown Hays. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>10th and Walnut proposed housing development in downtown Hays. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Commissioners also will discuss an ordinance that would establish a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) and adopt a plan for development of housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut.&nbsp;Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is proposing to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.The district would be expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during the maximum 25-year term. It would be made available to reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis. The RHID collection would end upon the earlier of 25 years or full reimbursement of all RHID-eligible project costs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716571310012.png" alt="1108 Main, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>1108 Main, downtown Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The commission will discuss funds for another development project in downtown Hays.The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded the city a $300,000 Commercial Rehabilitation Community Development Block Grant on behalf of Chestnut Suites&nbsp;at 1108 N. Main and Hays developer Adam Pray.The former Hays State Bank building, which is being used for the project, was constructed in 1965 and has been vacant for 40 years.Pray plans to redevelop the existing building into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb location called Chestnut Suites with 24 to 26 rooms. The rooms will be designed similar to those of traditional hotels. The complete Sept. 19 agenda is available <a href="https://ks-hays.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09192024-1503">here</a>.The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

Hays City Commission to consider reducing scope of 13th Street project

An overnight storm system brought 0.41 inches of rain to Hays Tuesday into early Wednesday morning, according to the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town.

The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, got 0.37 of an inch.&nbsp;

So far in September, Hays has received 0.67 inches of rain. The cumulative average for the entire month is 2.24 inches.

Year-to-date, 19.70 inches of moisture has been measured in Hays. That's just shy of the average for the year of 19.84 inches by the end of September.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/05299d94-ec04-4a8f-b81a-9b9dbd1b71e8">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for a chance of rain this weekend with cooler daytime highs.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1682693871209.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAn overnight storm system brought 0.41 inches of rain to Hays Tuesday into early Wednesday morning, according to the K-State Agricultural Research Center south of town.The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, got 0.37 of an inch.&nbsp;So far in September, Hays has received 0.67 inches of rain. The cumulative average for the entire month is 2.24 inches.Year-to-date, 19.70 inches of moisture has been measured in Hays. That's just shy of the average for the year of 19.84 inches by the end of September.&nbsp;The <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/05299d94-ec04-4a8f-b81a-9b9dbd1b71e8">three-day weather forecast</a> calls for a chance of rain this weekend with cooler daytime highs.&nbsp;

Rain falls in Hays overnight, nearing normal average moisture for the year

Hays Area Children's Center sets End of Summer Block Party

By BRENT MAYCOCK KSHSAA Covered

Craig Manteuffel had every intention of his retirement as an assistant executive director at the Kansas State High School Activities Association to be the outro of a career dedicated to music.

Instead, the beat goes on. Manteuffel will indeed retire from his KSHSAA position on Sept. 30. But instead of fading off into a full-blown retirement, he’s somewhat hitting the repeat on the tune that’s carried throughout his professional career.“I’m kind of coming full circle,” said Manteuffel, who has accepted the Executive Director position for the Kansas Music Educators Association, taking over the position on July 1. “I’ve been involved with KMEA really since middle school. Now I’m back to where I started.”The journey from an All-State tuba player as a sophomore at Hays High School to now being the Executive Director of the same organization that honored him has not only come full circle, but taken Manteuffel on a path that had some perhaps surprise bridges along the way.

His love for music began at an early age, sparked by his grandfather, Walter Manteuffel, who Craig said “would sing all the time.”

“I don’t know how many tunes he knew, but he would just sing. And I would sing with him.”The fire was stoked when Manteuffel participated in a musical theater college production of Camelot at Fort Hays State as a fourth-grader and began to burn brightly when he took up playing the tuba and other low brass instruments in fifth grade.

Music became more than just a passion, but a career goal when he was chosen to the All-State band his sophomore year.“It’s the best of the best playing in a band with a guest clinician, someone very respected in the U.S. and abroad,” he said. “It was an amazing experience to sit in that band, hear those sounds – just the entire All-State experience. I went right back to my counselor and said I want to be a band director and what do I need to do to pursue that.”Manteuffel set on his musical education path at Fort Hays State, earning his undergraduate degree in Instrumental/Vocal Music Education and then a Master of Liberal Studies/Fine Arts with an emphasis in Instrumental Conducting. Upon graduation he took a teaching position at Otis-Bison where he taught instrumental music for grades 5 through 12 and choir at the high school level, in addition to serving as an assistant football coach at the middle school level.

After a 10-year stint at Otis-Bison, Manteuffel returned to his alma mater, where he was the director of bands at Hays from 1996 to 2015 while also teaching music at the middle school.

At both stops, he found immense pleasure and satisfaction in working with students taking up an instrument for the first time.“I wanted to be with the beginners because that’s where it all starts,” he said. “If they don’t get started right, they’ll quit. Best thing you can do is get them a good instrument. Then they’re set up for success right off the bat. And then you can teach them from there.“It’s kind of unique, especially on the band side of things because you start them in fifth grade and then you have them, at least in my situations, until they graduate. You get to see them progress and it’s very rewarding to do that because you are so involved in their lives throughout their journey.”As his teaching career progressed at Hays, Manteuffel never envisioned a deviation from that melodious journey. In fact, he and his wife, Paula, bought their retirement home in Hays.

“I was going to retire from Hays High teaching and do some other things,” he said. “Really had no other ambitions and there wasn’t a job that was going to pull us away from Hays.”

A phone call from his former boss at Otis-Bison, Mark Goodheart, changed that.

In 2015, Reggie Romine retired his assistant executive director position at KSHSAA and Goodheart felt Manteuffel was the perfect replacement. Having served as president of the KMEA from 2009-15, Manteuffel had worked closely with Romine for several years.

Respecting Goodheart’s opinion as well as that of KMEA Executive Director John Taylor – who told him, ‘You absolutely have to do it’ – Manteuffel consulted with Paula and joined the KSHSAA in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;While the KSHSAA position covered all aspects of musical competition – band, choir, orchestra and piano – it also entailed activities of which Manteuffel was far less familiar with. He also became the primary administrator for speech and drama, debate and spirit activities.“There were some big challenges there,” Manteuffel said. “I had a little bit of speech and a lot of theater background, but I had no debate background whatsoever. And I had worked with dance coaches and cheer coaches pretty much every year of my 29-year career. Being the band director, you work with them on getting music, but I had no idea of the rules cheer and dance coaches have to learn to be safe and have their kids safe.

“But at KSHSAA one thing is, everybody helps each other. You have advisory committees that help and I had great advisory committees to work with. They helped out tremendously. I had really good partners and a lot of support in those situations. I don’t think anybody could do this job without having extensive backgrounds in all three activities unless you have a lot of support and I did. I had a great time with spirit folks and debate and speech coaches and both taught me a lot in my nine years. I’m very appreciative to those committees It’s a lot of learning, but it’s good learning. It’s all for kids and what we strive for is to give them events they can flourish in. It’s all worth it.”

During his tenure, in fact, KSHSAA – with the help of Varsity Spirit – developed GameDay Spirit Showcase, a state championship event for both cheer and dance teams across the state. The state competitions were a combined championship from 2017-19 before awarding championships in both cheer and dance beginning in 2020.“When I first came to the Association, (then-Executive Director) Gary Musselman was in contact with UIL (Texas’ Activities Association) and they were talking about starting a GameDay event in Texas,” Manteuffel said. “We started communicating with Texas and talked through things and the more we talked and worked through it we thought it would be perfect for Kansas because KSHSAA had never had a spirit championship of any kind.“I’m really proud of the growth that’s made. There are so many people behind the scenes that you don’t think about. Varsity Spirit, there’s no way I would have been able to run that even without them. They know the right adjudicators to judge those, they have people that do this all across the United States and of course Stormont (Vail Events Center) has been really good for this event. It’s probably one of the best events sites for this particular event in the U.S. and Varsity Spirit tells us that every year.Manteuffel’s tenure with KSHSAA also saw the implementation of a first-of-its-kid annual Performing Arts School of Excellence Award, given to a school in Kansas that excels in its fine arts.“It was a fun process for me,” he said. “I think in a school community, athletics play a big part, but I also think the fine arts play a huge part as well at every school. If you can be successful in all programs, it’s amazing. Some schools are very good at music, some are good at debate and speech. But not very often do they put it all together and they just thrive in every activity on the fine arts side of things. We modeled it from the NFHS when they started the award.

“We bring in committees from music, theater and debate and speech and to get all those associations in the same room had really never happened. To hear the dialogue they have throughout the process of choosing the winner is a neat process and I hope it continues forever.”

His impact has not gone unnoticed by those he worked closely with. He was honored on Thursday at a retirement ceremony at KSHSAA, joined not only by his family and fellow KSHSAA colleagues past and present, but also Taylor, Goodheart and other influecnes throughout his career.

“As a teacher, coach, director, and administrator, Mr. Manteuffel has demonstrated steady, thoughtful, and engaged leadership for the member schools we serve,” KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick said. “His desire to inspire students through connections to learning and growth opportunities helped prepare countless students to be successful in life and will resonate across our great state and beyond for years to come.”

Manteuffel's position at KSHSAA has been filled by Megan Hagaman.

Arguably the biggest challenge of Manteuffel’s career was navigating the performing arts through COVID. While the pandemic had an effect on all athletics and activities sponsored by the KSHSAA – canceling the end of the 2020 basketball season as well as the entire spring sports season that year – it really had a major impact on the performing arts, which largely are conducted in large groups and inside where serious restrictions were in place for more than a year.

The pandemic caused significant attrition in those activities, but Manteuffel and the KSHSAA staff were able to generate alternative means of still conducting competitions, including virtual performances. Manteuffel said numbers in those activities are now close to returning to pre-COVID levels and calls surviving that stretch one of his most significant accomplishments of his tenure.“COVID was horrible, but it was horrible for everybody – not just KSHSAA employees, but schools, teachers, administrators – it was everybody in education” he said. “If you want an accomplishment I feel most proud of, it was making it through COVID and being able to still perform. That was a big deal. Music and performing arts got a pretty bad rap right off the bat with COVID. But we made it through and kids were performing in the fall of 2020.&nbsp;“We learned how to navigate it and were able to make it through and here we are today.”And here we are with Manteuffel’s career coming full circle.

When Taylor announced his intentions to retire after a 22-year career as Executive Director of KMEA, Manteuffel joined the committee in charge of trying to find his replacement. He just never imagined that that person would be someone on the committee, namely him.

“Anybody that had been president of KMEA were in hopes that John would stay forever,” Manteuffel said. “He’d been there 22 years and you just always in the back of your mind was thinking, ‘Who the heck is going to take over for somebody that’s been there that long?’ He’s the only one who knows what he’s done.”

As the committee was preparing for interviews, then-KMEA president Jamie Minneman approached Manteuffel with a different option.

“She said, ‘We’d really like for you to apply for the job,’” Manteuffel said. “I said, ‘No, I cant do that.’ But the more I thought about it and talked to Paula and the family, they said, ‘If it’s really something you want to do, do it.’ I’m of the mindset to fill the void that John left and then get somebody younger in there and train them and then they can do it for 20 years. Whether it will happen or not, you never know.”

“It was a good time. I was going to retire from KSHSAA either this year or next year, so it all came into place. I’m a big believer in that. I believe if something’s going to happen, it’s going to happen for a reason. That’s the way my whole career has been. It’s exciting and I’m looking forward to it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726524300873.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MAYCOCK KSHSAA CoveredCraig Manteuffel had every intention of his retirement as an assistant executive director at the Kansas State High School Activities Association to be the outro of a career dedicated to music.Instead, the beat goes on. Manteuffel will indeed retire from his KSHSAA position on Sept. 30. But instead of fading off into a full-blown retirement, he’s somewhat hitting the repeat on the tune that’s carried throughout his professional career.“I’m kind of coming full circle,” said Manteuffel, who has accepted the Executive Director position for the Kansas Music Educators Association, taking over the position on July 1. “I’ve been involved with KMEA really since middle school. Now I’m back to where I started.”The journey from an All-State tuba player as a sophomore at Hays High School to now being the Executive Director of the same organization that honored him has not only come full circle, but taken Manteuffel on a path that had some perhaps surprise bridges along the way.His love for music began at an early age, sparked by his grandfather, Walter Manteuffel, who Craig said “would sing all the time.”“I don’t know how many tunes he knew, but he would just sing. And I would sing with him.”The fire was stoked when Manteuffel participated in a musical theater college production of Camelot at Fort Hays State as a fourth-grader and began to burn brightly when he took up playing the tuba and other low brass instruments in fifth grade.Music became more than just a passion, but a career goal when he was chosen to the All-State band his sophomore year.“It’s the best of the best playing in a band with a guest clinician, someone very respected in the U.S. and abroad,” he said. “It was an amazing experience to sit in that band, hear those sounds – just the entire All-State experience. I went right back to my counselor and said I want to be a band director and what do I need to do to pursue that.”Manteuffel set on his musical education path at Fort Hays State, earning his undergraduate degree in Instrumental/Vocal Music Education and then a Master of Liberal Studies/Fine Arts with an emphasis in Instrumental Conducting. Upon graduation he took a teaching position at Otis-Bison where he taught instrumental music for grades 5 through 12 and choir at the high school level, in addition to serving as an assistant football coach at the middle school level.After a 10-year stint at Otis-Bison, Manteuffel returned to his alma mater, where he was the director of bands at Hays from 1996 to 2015 while also teaching music at the middle school.At both stops, he found immense pleasure and satisfaction in working with students taking up an instrument for the first time.“I wanted to be with the beginners because that’s where it all starts,” he said. “If they don’t get started right, they’ll quit. Best thing you can do is get them a good instrument. Then they’re set up for success right off the bat. And then you can teach them from there.“It’s kind of unique, especially on the band side of things because you start them in fifth grade and then you have them, at least in my situations, until they graduate. You get to see them progress and it’s very rewarding to do that because you are so involved in their lives throughout their journey.”As his teaching career progressed at Hays, Manteuffel never envisioned a deviation from that melodious journey. In fact, he and his wife, Paula, bought their retirement home in Hays.“I was going to retire from Hays High teaching and do some other things,” he said. “Really had no other ambitions and there wasn’t a job that was going to pull us away from Hays.”A phone call from his former boss at Otis-Bison, Mark Goodheart, changed that.In 2015, Reggie Romine retired his assistant executive director position at KSHSAA and Goodheart felt Manteuffel was the perfect replacement. Having served as president of the KMEA from 2009-15, Manteuffel had worked closely with Romine for several years.Respecting Goodheart’s opinion as well as that of KMEA Executive Director John Taylor – who told him, ‘You absolutely have to do it’ – Manteuffel consulted with Paula and joined the KSHSAA in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While the KSHSAA position covered all aspects of musical competition – band, choir, orchestra and piano – it also entailed activities of which Manteuffel was far less familiar with. He also became the primary administrator for speech and drama, debate and spirit activities.“There were some big challenges there,” Manteuffel said. “I had a little bit of speech and a lot of theater background, but I had no debate background whatsoever. And I had worked with dance coaches and cheer coaches pretty much every year of my 29-year career. Being the band director, you work with them on getting music, but I had no idea of the rules cheer and dance coaches have to learn to be safe and have their kids safe.“But at KSHSAA one thing is, everybody helps each other. You have advisory committees that help and I had great advisory committees to work with. They helped out tremendously. I had really good partners and a lot of support in those situations. I don’t think anybody could do this job without having extensive backgrounds in all three activities unless you have a lot of support and I did. I had a great time with spirit folks and debate and speech coaches and both taught me a lot in my nine years. I’m very appreciative to those committees It’s a lot of learning, but it’s good learning. It’s all for kids and what we strive for is to give them events they can flourish in. It’s all worth it.”During his tenure, in fact, KSHSAA – with the help of Varsity Spirit – developed GameDay Spirit Showcase, a state championship event for both cheer and dance teams across the state. The state competitions were a combined championship from 2017-19 before awarding championships in both cheer and dance beginning in 2020.“When I first came to the Association, (then-Executive Director) Gary Musselman was in contact with UIL (Texas’ Activities Association) and they were talking about starting a GameDay event in Texas,” Manteuffel said. “We started communicating with Texas and talked through things and the more we talked and worked through it we thought it would be perfect for Kansas because KSHSAA had never had a spirit championship of any kind.“I’m really proud of the growth that’s made. There are so many people behind the scenes that you don’t think about. Varsity Spirit, there’s no way I would have been able to run that even without them. They know the right adjudicators to judge those, they have people that do this all across the United States and of course Stormont (Vail Events Center) has been really good for this event. It’s probably one of the best events sites for this particular event in the U.S. and Varsity Spirit tells us that every year.Manteuffel’s tenure with KSHSAA also saw the implementation of a first-of-its-kid annual Performing Arts School of Excellence Award, given to a school in Kansas that excels in its fine arts.“It was a fun process for me,” he said. “I think in a school community, athletics play a big part, but I also think the fine arts play a huge part as well at every school. If you can be successful in all programs, it’s amazing. Some schools are very good at music, some are good at debate and speech. But not very often do they put it all together and they just thrive in every activity on the fine arts side of things. We modeled it from the NFHS when they started the award.“We bring in committees from music, theater and debate and speech and to get all those associations in the same room had really never happened. To hear the dialogue they have throughout the process of choosing the winner is a neat process and I hope it continues forever.”His impact has not gone unnoticed by those he worked closely with. He was honored on Thursday at a retirement ceremony at KSHSAA, joined not only by his family and fellow KSHSAA colleagues past and present, but also Taylor, Goodheart and other influecnes throughout his career.“As a teacher, coach, director, and administrator, Mr. Manteuffel has demonstrated steady, thoughtful, and engaged leadership for the member schools we serve,” KSHSAA Executive Director Bill Faflick said. “His desire to inspire students through connections to learning and growth opportunities helped prepare countless students to be successful in life and will resonate across our great state and beyond for years to come.”Manteuffel's position at KSHSAA has been filled by Megan Hagaman.Arguably the biggest challenge of Manteuffel’s career was navigating the performing arts through COVID. While the pandemic had an effect on all athletics and activities sponsored by the KSHSAA – canceling the end of the 2020 basketball season as well as the entire spring sports season that year – it really had a major impact on the performing arts, which largely are conducted in large groups and inside where serious restrictions were in place for more than a year.The pandemic caused significant attrition in those activities, but Manteuffel and the KSHSAA staff were able to generate alternative means of still conducting competitions, including virtual performances. Manteuffel said numbers in those activities are now close to returning to pre-COVID levels and calls surviving that stretch one of his most significant accomplishments of his tenure.“COVID was horrible, but it was horrible for everybody – not just KSHSAA employees, but schools, teachers, administrators – it was everybody in education” he said. “If you want an accomplishment I feel most proud of, it was making it through COVID and being able to still perform. That was a big deal. Music and performing arts got a pretty bad rap right off the bat with COVID. But we made it through and kids were performing in the fall of 2020.&nbsp;“We learned how to navigate it and were able to make it through and here we are today.”And here we are with Manteuffel’s career coming full circle.When Taylor announced his intentions to retire after a 22-year career as Executive Director of KMEA, Manteuffel joined the committee in charge of trying to find his replacement. He just never imagined that that person would be someone on the committee, namely him.“Anybody that had been president of KMEA were in hopes that John would stay forever,” Manteuffel said. “He’d been there 22 years and you just always in the back of your mind was thinking, ‘Who the heck is going to take over for somebody that’s been there that long?’ He’s the only one who knows what he’s done.”As the committee was preparing for interviews, then-KMEA president Jamie Minneman approached Manteuffel with a different option.“She said, ‘We’d really like for you to apply for the job,’” Manteuffel said. “I said, ‘No, I cant do that.’ But the more I thought about it and talked to Paula and the family, they said, ‘If it’s really something you want to do, do it.’ I’m of the mindset to fill the void that John left and then get somebody younger in there and train them and then they can do it for 20 years. Whether it will happen or not, you never know.”“It was a good time. I was going to retire from KSHSAA either this year or next year, so it all came into place. I’m a big believer in that. I believe if something’s going to happen, it’s going to happen for a reason. That’s the way my whole career has been. It’s exciting and I’m looking forward to it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Music to his ears: Manteuffel's career comes full circle in retirement from KSHSAA

The Ellis Alliance was presented a Kansas tourism marketing grant from the Kansas Tourism division of the Kansas Department of Commerce during a ceremony Monday afternoon in Ellis with state officials from Topeka.

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ellisalliance/">Ellis Alliance</a> is a storefront and an umbrella organization that houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation and the Ellis Development Corporation.&nbsp;

Alicia Flower, who was hired as the Alliance executive director in April, submitted the grant application in mid-summer.

Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism director, presented the oversized cardboard check for $1,908.78 to Flower and Alliance board members&nbsp;Jolene Niernberger,&nbsp;Pauleen Edmonds and&nbsp;Travis Kohlrus, along with Mayor Dave McDaniel.

The grant dollars will be used to promote and market Ellis to the public, especially out-of-town visitors.

"We were so excited when we saw your application come in," Jobe said. "I think this is so smart. ... "You're trying to market your community, and you have to have good assets."&nbsp;

Those assets will soon include an Ellis Alliance website and a closed-circuit video monitor in the office, on which community events and Alliance information will be promoted.

The Alliance office is in the heart of downtown at 820 Washington St.

"The whole purpose of this tourism grant is to help first-time marketing projects get off the ground. That's really what these are for," Jobe said. "That's exactly what intrigued us, and we wanted to help you."

The Ellis promotional project will include updated photography and other media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"My husband and I just recently moved to Ellis and we have fallen in love with it," Flower said. "It's just so pretty and charming, and there aren't current photographs of it.

"I also want to get a commercial made highlighting just what Ellis is, to promote it, that would play on the TV."

Jobe said once the assets of good photography, videography and art are acquired, they could be used in multiple ways.

"You could use them on social media, online, in printed publications, billboards. There's so many great ways to use them down the road, but you have to have great photos.

"It's something we invest in heavily each year, new assets, and you're really smart to do that," Jobe said. 

"We love being able to help these new projects. I don't know that we've done a whole lot in Ellis before."

Alliance board president Travis Kohlrus said Ellis differs from other communities because the Alliance combines several entities.

"We've been doing this for about 20 years. We're small enough that we can't have a chamber office, a foundation office, a [economic] development office. So the alliance represents all of us. ... We do lots of volunteering in a small town," Kohlrus said.

Flower hopes to see more local volunteers get involved in community projects and programs, especially young families. She and her husband have a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, and they wanted to find out what activities were available as they grew their family.

"Once young families have more knowledge about what Ellis has to offer, I think they'll turn out," she said.

Flower also said she believes community events will attract a greater number of area visitors once they know what's happening in Ellis.

Ellis's summer art walk and the "Follow the Star" holiday retail promotion are two popular events.&nbsp;

The new Ellis Historic Walking Trail will debut on Sept. 27 with a ribbon cutting.&nbsp;The Community Foundation of Ellis sponsors and funds the trail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726591898376.jpeg" alt="From left to right: Jolene Niernberger, Ellis Alliance; Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism; Pauleen Edmonds, Ellis Alliance; Travis Kohlrus, Ellis Alliance; Alicia Flower, Ellis Alliance executive director; and Ellis Mayor Dave McDaniel pose with the giant grant check awarded to the Ellis Alliance Monday for a tourism project. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>From left to right: Jolene Niernberger, Ellis Alliance; Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism; Pauleen Edmonds, Ellis Alliance; Travis Kohlrus, Ellis Alliance; Alicia Flower, Ellis Alliance executive director; and Ellis Mayor Dave McDaniel pose with the giant grant check awarded to the Ellis Alliance Monday for a tourism project. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe Ellis Alliance was presented a Kansas tourism marketing grant from the Kansas Tourism division of the Kansas Department of Commerce during a ceremony Monday afternoon in Ellis with state officials from Topeka.The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ellisalliance/">Ellis Alliance</a> is a storefront and an umbrella organization that houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation and the Ellis Development Corporation.&nbsp;Alicia Flower, who was hired as the Alliance executive director in April, submitted the grant application in mid-summer.Bridgette Jobe, Kansas Tourism director, presented the oversized cardboard check for $1,908.78 to Flower and Alliance board members&nbsp;Jolene Niernberger,&nbsp;Pauleen Edmonds and&nbsp;Travis Kohlrus, along with Mayor Dave McDaniel.The grant dollars will be used to promote and market Ellis to the public, especially out-of-town visitors."We were so excited when we saw your application come in," Jobe said. "I think this is so smart. ... "You're trying to market your community, and you have to have good assets."&nbsp;Those assets will soon include an Ellis Alliance website and a closed-circuit video monitor in the office, on which community events and Alliance information will be promoted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726607641670.jpeg" alt="The Ellis Alliance office houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation of Ellis and the Ellis Development Corporation. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Ellis Alliance office houses the Ellis Chamber of Commerce, the Community Foundation of Ellis and the Ellis Development Corporation. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The Alliance office is in the heart of downtown at 820 Washington St."The whole purpose of this tourism grant is to help first-time marketing projects get off the ground. That's really what these are for," Jobe said. "That's exactly what intrigued us, and we wanted to help you."The Ellis promotional project will include updated photography and other media.&nbsp;&nbsp;"My husband and I just recently moved to Ellis and we have fallen in love with it," Flower said. "It's just so pretty and charming, and there aren't current photographs of it. "I also want to get a commercial made highlighting just what Ellis is, to promote it, that would play on the TV."Jobe said once the assets of good photography, videography and art are acquired, they could be used in multiple ways."You could use them on social media, online, in printed publications, billboards. There's so many great ways to use them down the road, but you have to have great photos."It's something we invest in heavily each year, new assets, and you're really smart to do that," Jobe said. "We love being able to help these new projects. I don't know that we've done a whole lot in Ellis before."Alliance board president Travis Kohlrus said Ellis differs from other communities because the Alliance combines several entities."We've been doing this for about 20 years. We're small enough that we can't have a chamber office, a foundation office, a [economic] development office. So the alliance represents all of us. ... We do lots of volunteering in a small town," Kohlrus said.Flower hopes to see more local volunteers get involved in community projects and programs, especially young families. She and her husband have a 4-year-old and a 2-year-old, and they wanted to find out what activities were available as they grew their family."Once young families have more knowledge about what Ellis has to offer, I think they'll turn out," she said.Flower also said she believes community events will attract a greater number of area visitors once they know what's happening in Ellis.Ellis's summer art walk and the "Follow the Star" holiday retail promotion are two popular events.&nbsp;The new Ellis Historic Walking Trail will debut on Sept. 27 with a ribbon cutting.&nbsp;The Community Foundation of Ellis sponsors and funds the trail.

Ellis Alliance receives state tourism marketing grant

HaysMed has announced the addition of Amanda Ray, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), to the team at the HaysMed Convenient Care Clinic.

Ray earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Nursing from Fort Hays State University and then obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

She previously worked at HaysMed in the Pulmonary and ENT Clinics and the Dreiling/Schmidt Cancer Institute.

The clinic addresses conditions that require immediate attention but are not life-threatening or severe enough to warrant a visit to the emergency department.

"Ray's addition represents a significant step in HaysMed's ongoing efforts to expand and improve its services in response to the evolving health care needs of the Hays community," a HaysMed press release said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726603465658.jpeg" alt="Amanda&nbsp;Ray" />
 <figcaption>Amanda&nbsp;Ray</figcaption>
 </figure>HaysMedHaysMed has announced the addition of Amanda Ray, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), to the team at the HaysMed Convenient Care Clinic.Ray earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Nursing from Fort Hays State University and then obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.She previously worked at HaysMed in the Pulmonary and ENT Clinics and the Dreiling/Schmidt Cancer Institute.The clinic addresses conditions that require immediate attention but are not life-threatening or severe enough to warrant a visit to the emergency department."Ray's addition represents a significant step in HaysMed's ongoing efforts to expand and improve its services in response to the evolving health care needs of the Hays community," a HaysMed press release said.

New provider joins HaysMed Convenient Care Clinic

Growing up in Ellsworth, Braden Schulte has always exemplified the determined spirit Fort Hays State University students are known for. With his senior year underway, Schulte is thankful to those who have supported him throughout his time on campus. He’s most appreciative of FHSU's Half Century Club.

“Knowing that others believe in my education means a great deal to me. It provides an extra sense of encouragement and motivation to work hard and achieve my goals,” Schulte said. &nbsp;

Like Schulte, members of the Half Century Club once called Fort Hays State University home. The place where their dreams took flight and possibilities seemed limitless. 

The Half Century Club was established at FHSU in 1969 and is made up of alumni who graduated from the university 50 or more years ago. Over time, this group created the Half Century Club Scholarship to tell students, “You are important to us. You are part of our past, and you play an important role in our present and future.” 

The scholarship supports undergraduate students who are descendants of Half Century Club members.

In high school,&nbsp;Schulte pushed himself to participate in as many sports and activities as possible. Through his involvement, he developed leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. 

Schulte’s interest in mathematics and economics led him to FHSU, where he enrolled as a third-generation student. Walking in the footsteps of both paternal grandparents, parents, and older brothers, Schulte was confident that Fort Hays State was the right choice.

Aside from the affordable tuition and strong campus community, Schulte feels uplifted by the generosity of alumni who have helped him achieve his goals. Receiving financial support has allowed him to focus more on his studies and the opportunities available to him. 

This past summer, Schulte was able to take an internship with Koch Industries, which will help him in his career as an aspiring financial analyst.

Schulte hopes to meet some of FHSU’s Half Century Club members at Homecoming in a few short weeks. 

Celebrating their 50-year reunion, the Class of 1974 will join the esteemed Half Century Club group during this year’s Homecoming, scheduled for October 3 – 5. Classmates of 1974 will be recognized during the Half Century Club luncheon and induction ceremony on Friday, October 4, and again on Saturday during the Half Century Club breakfast. 

If you’re a member of the Class of 1974 or any prior graduating class, please note that these events require advanced registration, which can be completed online at FHSUhomecoming.com or by calling the Alumni Office at 785-628-4430. Don’t wait – the registration deadline is Friday, September 20.

If you graduated from FHSU 50 or more years ago and would like to join in impacting students like Braden, make a gift to the Half Century Club Scholarship today. 

Make your gift online by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqp6ODrzdrVqvVfIp3cDfSNDDFsp7FihKAJL2HoTEbrixQK-2Brc0tF-2Brw6eSnzfiecMmatJ6Doh4uUyam6UmuPXU0-3DZ9aG_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOdSZLmFyAQ-2BPHpW9yeC9NsCLvLTLKdAITr8XLUOmde5S7LB1xMQS97NJ0Wl3Pv1WjzIKjWUmWTyzkF1KR1QpJE1OQoWROh06ZjR-2BnUHmGOC6NI8lgciVsXDT-2Fggtfv-2BUDLpyQkxTxRAqHJnsNYV3awGqzsM8rs2936qVXEfzxvd1EjipsqRd3mdu2fCyAYAN4tAFGAkjEaF9evdrsUTS4drC4tFArZ-2FlV39Olo5PEsfRWlDBVBVhNtNpTb7JLGIfa">foundation.fhsu.edu/half-century-club-scholarship</a>&nbsp;or send a check to the FHSU Foundation, P.O. Box 1060, Hays, KS 67601. All gifts are 100% tax-deductible.

For questions about the scholarship, contact the FHSU Foundation by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-5620.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726591317470.png" alt="Braden Schulte" />
 <figcaption>Braden Schulte</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Alumni OfficeGrowing up in Ellsworth, Braden Schulte has always exemplified the determined spirit Fort Hays State University students are known for. With his senior year underway, Schulte is thankful to those who have supported him throughout his time on campus. He’s most appreciative of FHSU's Half Century Club.“Knowing that others believe in my education means a great deal to me. It provides an extra sense of encouragement and motivation to work hard and achieve my goals,” Schulte said. &nbsp;Like Schulte, members of the Half Century Club once called Fort Hays State University home. The place where their dreams took flight and possibilities seemed limitless. The Half Century Club was established at FHSU in 1969 and is made up of alumni who graduated from the university 50 or more years ago. Over time, this group created the Half Century Club Scholarship to tell students, “You are important to us. You are part of our past, and you play an important role in our present and future.” The scholarship supports undergraduate students who are descendants of Half Century Club members.In high school,&nbsp;Schulte pushed himself to participate in as many sports and activities as possible. Through his involvement, he developed leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Schulte’s interest in mathematics and economics led him to FHSU, where he enrolled as a third-generation student. Walking in the footsteps of both paternal grandparents, parents, and older brothers, Schulte was confident that Fort Hays State was the right choice.Aside from the affordable tuition and strong campus community, Schulte feels uplifted by the generosity of alumni who have helped him achieve his goals. Receiving financial support has allowed him to focus more on his studies and the opportunities available to him. This past summer, Schulte was able to take an internship with Koch Industries, which will help him in his career as an aspiring financial analyst.Schulte hopes to meet some of FHSU’s Half Century Club members at Homecoming in a few short weeks. Celebrating their 50-year reunion, the Class of 1974 will join the esteemed Half Century Club group during this year’s Homecoming, scheduled for October 3 – 5. Classmates of 1974 will be recognized during the Half Century Club luncheon and induction ceremony on Friday, October 4, and again on Saturday during the Half Century Club breakfast. If you’re a member of the Class of 1974 or any prior graduating class, please note that these events require advanced registration, which can be completed online at FHSUhomecoming.com or by calling the Alumni Office at 785-628-4430. Don’t wait – the registration deadline is Friday, September 20.If you graduated from FHSU 50 or more years ago and would like to join in impacting students like Braden, make a gift to the Half Century Club Scholarship today. Make your gift online by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqp6ODrzdrVqvVfIp3cDfSNDDFsp7FihKAJL2HoTEbrixQK-2Brc0tF-2Brw6eSnzfiecMmatJ6Doh4uUyam6UmuPXU0-3DZ9aG_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOdSZLmFyAQ-2BPHpW9yeC9NsCLvLTLKdAITr8XLUOmde5S7LB1xMQS97NJ0Wl3Pv1WjzIKjWUmWTyzkF1KR1QpJE1OQoWROh06ZjR-2BnUHmGOC6NI8lgciVsXDT-2Fggtfv-2BUDLpyQkxTxRAqHJnsNYV3awGqzsM8rs2936qVXEfzxvd1EjipsqRd3mdu2fCyAYAN4tAFGAkjEaF9evdrsUTS4drC4tFArZ-2FlV39Olo5PEsfRWlDBVBVhNtNpTb7JLGIfa">foundation.fhsu.edu/half-century-club-scholarship</a>&nbsp;or send a check to the FHSU Foundation, P.O. Box 1060, Hays, KS 67601. All gifts are 100% tax-deductible. For questions about the scholarship, contact the FHSU Foundation by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:foundation@fhsu.edu">foundation@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-5620.

Half Century Club gives back to third-generation FHSU student

<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/2024/9/1726610445913.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 ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.

Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.

Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;

If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotlineat 988.

You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.

Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a>

<a href="https://thecentergb.org/"></a>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

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 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension DistrictSuicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotlineat 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are additional resources:National Resources&nbsp;<ul>
 <li><a href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/">https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.sprc.org/">https://www.sprc.org/</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention">https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention</a> &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;State Resources&nbsp;<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas">https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.ksphq.org/">https://www.ksphq.org/</a> &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a><ul>
 <li>The Center for Counseling and Consultation. 24/7 Crisis line –620-792-2544 or 800-875-8544&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://thecentergb.org/">https://thecentergb.org/</a> </li>
 </ul><a href="https://thecentergb.org/"></a>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Suicide prevention

TREGO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Trego County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Tahoe driven by Saige Caroline&nbsp;Herl, 18, Hays, ran a stop sign at 13th and Barclay Avenue in WaKeeney. A 2017 Chevy Impala driven by Madison Elaine Waggoner, 21, Ellis, struck the driver side of the SUV.

EMS transported Herl to the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. Waggoner was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

TREGO COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before noon Tuesday in Trego County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Chevy Tahoe driven by Saige Caroline&nbsp;Herl, 18, Hays, ran a stop sign at 13th and Barclay Avenue in WaKeeney. A 2017 Chevy Impala driven by Madison Elaine Waggoner, 21, Ellis, struck the driver side of the SUV.EMS transported Herl to the Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. Waggoner was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Teen from Hays hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

Starting Wednesday, Sept. 18, &nbsp;M&amp;D Excavating will begin waterline work on W. 12th&nbsp;Street just east of Ash Street in Hays.

 Work is only expected to last one week. 

Cones and barricades will be placed to divert traffic when necessary. It is recommended that residents avoid the area if possible. &nbsp;

Any residents affected by this project will be notified by the contractor for any interruption of services.&nbsp;

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please call the contractor, M&amp;D Excavating 785-628-3169 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

City of HaysStarting Wednesday, Sept. 18, &nbsp;M&amp;D Excavating will begin waterline work on W. 12th&nbsp;Street just east of Ash Street in Hays. Work is only expected to last one week. Cones and barricades will be placed to divert traffic when necessary. It is recommended that residents avoid the area if possible. &nbsp;Any residents affected by this project will be notified by the contractor for any interruption of services.&nbsp;The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please call the contractor, M&amp;D Excavating 785-628-3169 or the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350.

Waterline work on W. 12th east of Ash Street starts Wednesday in Hays

Government Surplus Commodities will be distributed in Hays at:

Unite Free Shelves (Inside The Gamers Guild) 200 E 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, KS, Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 7:30AM-9:00AM. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis until we run out.

To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below:$1,632 Household of one$2,215 Household of two$2,798 Household of three$3,380 Household of four$3,963 Household of five$4,546 Household of six$5,129 Household of seven$5,712 Household of eight

*Add $583 for each additional family member after eight

Commodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be applesauce, canned beef, long rice, canned pink salmon, garbanzo beans, peanut butter, k pink canned salmon, raisins, ham slices, blueberries, chicken pouches, green beans, canned collards, mixed vegetables, and ocean perch fillets.&nbsp;Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

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

SubmittedGovernment Surplus Commodities will be distributed in Hays at:Unite Free Shelves (Inside The Gamers Guild) 200 E 8th&nbsp;Street in Hays, KS, Tuesday, Sept. 24 from 7:30AM-9:00AM. Commodities will be distributed on a first-come-first-serve basis until we run out.Doors will not open until 7:30AM.To be eligible for commodities, your household's total monthly income must be below:$1,632 Household of one$2,215 Household of two$2,798 Household of three$3,380 Household of four$3,963 Household of five$4,546 Household of six$5,129 Household of seven$5,712 Household of eight*Add $583 for each additional family member after eightCommodities included in this distribution are anticipated to be applesauce, canned beef, long rice, canned pink salmon, garbanzo beans, peanut butter, k pink canned salmon, raisins, ham slices, blueberries, chicken pouches, green beans, canned collards, mixed vegetables, and ocean perch fillets.&nbsp;Contact Brandon Nimz, Unite Ministry Leader with any questions at 785-259-2539. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.Future commodity distribution times will be posted at:&nbsp;(<a href="http://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/">https://unitehays.com/index.php/hays-commodity-distribution/</a>)

Commodity distribution set for Sept. 24

A collaborative effort between the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission, Kansas State University Department of Plant Pathology, and K-State Research and Extension is bringing forth the Sorghum Connection Field Day series. 

This program will provide producers with information on stalk rot management, hybrid selection, fertility, and other cropping systems practices to improve producer productivity and profitability all showcased through on-farm research trials.

The Russell Field Day is Sept. 18 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the corner of N. Copeland St. and E. State St.

Attendance is free, with lunch provided but registration is required by calling 785-472-4442.

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 </figure>Cottonwood Extension DistrictA collaborative effort between the Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission, Kansas State University Department of Plant Pathology, and K-State Research and Extension is bringing forth the Sorghum Connection Field Day series. This program will provide producers with information on stalk rot management, hybrid selection, fertility, and other cropping systems practices to improve producer productivity and profitability all showcased through on-farm research trials.The Russell Field Day is Sept. 18 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the corner of N. Copeland St. and E. State St.Attendance is free, with lunch provided but registration is required by calling 785-472-4442.

Russell to host Sorghum Connection Field Day Sept. 18

This statement was released by USD 489 as of Tuesday morning.

Hays 489 has been made aware of threats circulating on social media, similar to reports in other Kansas school districts.

These threats appear to be part of a broader online trend.

While no credible evidence has been found indicating an immediate threat to our students or staff, it has been noted that Sept. 23 is a potential date for these events.

Hays 489 is working in collaboration with Hays Police Dept to ensure the safety and security of all students and staff.

We encourage anyone who notices suspicious activity or has concerns to report it immediately to local law enforcement.

Hays PostThis statement was released by USD 489 as of Tuesday morning.Hays 489 has been made aware of threats circulating on social media, similar to reports in other Kansas school districts. These threats appear to be part of a broader online trend. While no credible evidence has been found indicating an immediate threat to our students or staff, it has been noted that Sept. 23 is a potential date for these events. Hays 489 is working in collaboration with Hays Police Dept to ensure the safety and security of all students and staff.We encourage anyone who notices suspicious activity or has concerns to report it immediately to local law enforcement.