<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Nuclear missile silo turned Airbnb owner Matthew Fulkerson.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_L_A5J6JQhA?si=mnNNqSfyc9mW5J9n" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Nuclear missile silo turned Airbnb owner Matthew Fulkerson.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: Nuclear missile silo turned Airbnb owner Matthew Fulkerson

The Kiwanis Club of Hays is pleased to announce information about the annual Veterans, Military, Active Duty, and Rervists Local Heroes Appreciation Lunch.

The event will be held on Nov. 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rose Garden Banquet Hall &amp; Catering. All veterans, active-duty military, reservists, and national guardsmen are invited to attend. Lunch will be free of charge and courtesy of the Kiwanis Club of Hays. The meal will include fried chicken with choice of honey pecan sauce or gravy, potatoes, vegetable, side salad, roll, and dessert.

Music will be provided by students from TMP-Marian, and a special thank you video will be provided by students from Hays Middle School. Some of Wilson Elementary’s 5th graders will also be present to help serve and honor the heroes with thank you cards. Singers will provide patriotic music, and a service photo presentation will be shared during the event. Service men and women are encouraged to email their service photos to info@hayskiwanis.com. To RSVP for this event, please email info@hayskiwanis.com or call 785-650-2196. RSVPs are requested by Friday, Nov. 1.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657811948261.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Kiwanis Club of Hays plans veterans and military appreciation lunch" 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=wkbkf-171e4fa-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>Submitted</i></p><p>The Kiwanis Club of Hays is pleased to announce information about the annual Veterans, Military, Active Duty, and Rervists Local Heroes Appreciation Lunch.</p><p>The event will be held on Nov. 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rose Garden Banquet Hall &amp; Catering. All veterans, active-duty military, reservists, and national guardsmen are invited to attend. Lunch will be free of charge and courtesy of the Kiwanis Club of Hays. The meal will include fried chicken with choice of honey pecan sauce or gravy, potatoes, vegetable, side salad, roll, and dessert.</p><p>Music will be provided by students from TMP-Marian, and a special thank you video will be provided by students from Hays Middle School. Some of Wilson Elementary’s 5th graders will also be present to help serve and honor the heroes with thank you cards. Singers will provide patriotic music, and a service photo presentation will be shared during the event. Service men and women are encouraged to email their service photos to info@hayskiwanis.com. To RSVP for this event, please email info@hayskiwanis.com or call 785-650-2196. RSVPs are requested by Friday, Nov. 1.</p>

🎙Kiwanis Club of Hays plans veterans and military appreciation lunch

<b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i>

Unless there is a protest petition campaign, the transient guest tax at Hays hotels and Airbnbs will increase to 8.25% on April 1.

The current guest tax rate is 7%, established in 1998. Five percent of that is allocated to Convention and Visitors Bureau operations. Another 2% was added in 2018 for North Vine Street improvements.

"To go on a 5% operating budget for 25 years is quite impressive, but the CVB fund is becoming unsustainable," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.&nbsp;

"Technology has changed, costs have increased, so they're doing a lot of things differently."

Increasing the guest tax by 1.25% will generate about $250,000 more each year.

The Special Parks will receive $50,000 to maintain the city’s parks and recreational facilities.

"Those are amenities that both residents and visitors utilize alike," Bielser said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We have to find reasons to make visitors come here," Commissioner Shaun Musil said.

The city's general fund is primarily financed by the local sales tax.

"We want visitors to come enjoy the quality-of-life amenities we've invested in," Commissioner Reese Barrick said.&nbsp;

Only two cities in Kansas have a higher guest tax than Hays will soon have. Overland Park and Mission are at 9%. Many cities are at 8%, including Dodge City, Emporia, and Shawnee.

In other business, city commissioners approved three items that continue moving forward The Grove, a retiree-focused&nbsp;housing project north of Hays Medical Center. 

Those included a low bid award of $3 million to Sporer Land Development, Oakley/Colby, for construction of street, water, storm water, sanitary sewer and other infrastructure improvements.

Commissioners signed a $100,438 construction engineering services agreement with Driggs Design Group, Hays, and approved the development agreement with Grow Hays.

Dirt work has begun on a portion of the project, including a new senior/child care/community center. There will also be an extension of the city's multi-use path from 22nd Street and the existing HaysMed path to the north of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

Also approved was a renewal agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas for a triple-option employee health insurance plan. The premium will increase by almost 13% in 2025.

"That's still well below the national average," Giebler said.

The city will continue providing up to $625 in employer match for employees’ health savings accounts.

Giebler, the commissioners and Toby Dougherty, city manager, recognized employees who have a combined 315 years of service to the city.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729864067308.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
                        <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Hotel guests to pay higher visitors tax in Hays" 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=2dhh4-171b5e5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Unless there is a protest petition campaign, the transient guest tax at Hays hotels and Airbnbs will increase to 8.25% on April 1.</p><p>The current guest tax rate is 7%, established in 1998. Five percent of that is allocated to Convention and Visitors Bureau operations. Another 2% was added in 2018 for North Vine Street improvements.</p><p>"To go on a 5% operating budget for 25 years is quite impressive, but the CVB fund is becoming unsustainable," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.&nbsp;</p><p>"Technology has changed, costs have increased, so they're doing a lot of things differently."</p><p>Increasing the guest tax by 1.25% will generate about $250,000 more each year.</p><p>The Special Parks will receive $50,000 to maintain the city’s parks and recreational facilities.</p><p>"Those are amenities that both residents and visitors utilize alike," Bielser said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>"We have to find reasons to make visitors come here," Commissioner Shaun Musil said.</p><p>The city's general fund is primarily financed by the local sales tax.</p><p>"We want visitors to come enjoy the quality-of-life amenities we've invested in," Commissioner Reese Barrick said.&nbsp;</p><p>Only two cities in Kansas have a higher guest tax than Hays will soon have. Overland Park and Mission are at 9%. Many cities are at 8%, including Dodge City, Emporia, and Shawnee.</p><p>In other business, city commissioners approved three items that continue moving forward The Grove, a retiree-focused&nbsp;housing project north of Hays Medical Center. </p><p>Those included a low bid award of $3 million to Sporer Land Development, Oakley/Colby, for construction of street, water, storm water, sanitary sewer and other infrastructure improvements.</p><p>Commissioners signed a $100,438 construction engineering services agreement with Driggs Design Group, Hays, and approved the development agreement with Grow Hays.</p><p>Dirt work has begun on a portion of the project, including a new senior/child care/community center. There will also be an extension of the city's multi-use path from 22nd Street and the existing HaysMed path to the north of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.</p><p>Also approved was a renewal agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas for a triple-option employee health insurance plan. The premium will increase by almost 13% in 2025.</p><p>"That's still well below the national average," Giebler said.</p><p>The city will continue providing up to $625 in employer match for employees’ health savings accounts.</p><p>Giebler, the commissioners and Toby Dougherty, city manager, recognized employees who have a combined 315 years of service to the city.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870148107.png" alt="City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870272833.png" alt="City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
                    </figure><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729870525573.png" alt="City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>City of Hays</figcaption>
                    </figure>

🎙 Hotel guests to pay higher visitors tax in Hays    

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;K9 Vests Midwest founder Emily Fawcett.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IFlaK6Fz6H8?si=iLlZJWuzDdfRGn2E" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;K9 Vests Midwest founder Emily Fawcett.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: K9 Vests Midwest founder Emily Fawcett

<i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Brian Weimer discusses the history of the company and its services with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Cristina Janney.</i>

<div><iframe title="IPI Financial Services shares business history and services" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=auiis-170a110-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Brian Weimer discusses the history of the company and its services with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Cristina Janney.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: IPI Financial Services shares business history and services

Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason’s tour of Kansas begins on October 25 in Dodge City. During the four days of the tour, she will make 21 stops and cover more than 1,000 miles, meet with journalists in small Kansas community public and commercial radio stations, participate in two live TV programs, and sit down for an extensive podcast interview. This year’s tour will focus on the impact of the people, programs, and partnerships of FHSU on our state.&nbsp;

On this year’s tour, Mason will be joined at several tour stops by the presidents of FHSU’s Strategic Affiliation partner universities, President Eric Burks of Fort Hays Tech | North Central, and President Ben Schears of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. The trio will participate in panel discussions in Goodland and Beloit to share updates on the ongoing work of the Affiliation Implementation Teams charged with creating new academic pathways, integrating student services, and creating the business and community partnerships that best serve the workforce development needs of rural Kansas. The three presidents will also participate in TV and radio interviews in Wichita on October 30.

<b>October 25: Dodge City, Garden City, and Goodland</b>

Tour stops on day one will focus on addressing domestic violence and sex trafficking in rural Kansas. In addition, a panel discussion will be hosted by Fort Hays Tech | Northwest on our collaborative effort to enhance educational opportunities and services in rural Kansas. The construction and engineering design Affiliation Implementation Team is working to address regional workforce needs, expand student opportunities, and create innovative educational pathways between our three affiliation partner institutions.

<b>October 28: Russell, Beloit, and Salina</b>

Tour stops on day two will include two radio interviews and a panel discussion on how FHSU and Fort Hays Tech | North Central are working to address the shortage of nursing and healthcare services professionals in rural Kanas.&nbsp;

President Mason will first visit the Topeka Correctional Institute for a radio interview about FHSU’s adult literacy outreach partnership that is helping incarcerated women connect with their children, grandchildren, and other family members. She will then meet with reporters to discuss the Docking Institute for Public Policy’s 2024 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey. Day three will conclude with a podcast interview and TV appearance that will focus on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative since it was launched in July of this year.

<b>October 30: Wichita and Great Bend</b>

Presidents Burks and Schears will join President Mason for a live TV interview and then participate in a radio interview. The three will share information on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative. The tour will conclude with two media interviews in Great Bend. The first will focus on the partnership between the university and the Kansas Bankers Association and the joint effort to recruit students interested in a career in banking and finance to come to FHSU and take advantage of the programs and professional networking offerings of the W. R. Robbins Banking Institute.&nbsp; The tour's final stop will be a news interview about the efforts of the FHSU Online Student Government to improve the online student experience for those who chose FHSU Online for its unmatched affordability, flexibility, and overall value.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729704614707.png" alt="Image courtesy FHSU" />
                        <figcaption>Image courtesy FHSU</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Mason to kick off 2024 FHSU President’s Kansas Media Tour on Friday" 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=mmcr5-171b509-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>FHSU University Relations</i></p><p>Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason’s tour of Kansas begins on October 25 in Dodge City. During the four days of the tour, she will make 21 stops and cover more than 1,000 miles, meet with journalists in small Kansas community public and commercial radio stations, participate in two live TV programs, and sit down for an extensive podcast interview. This year’s tour will focus on the impact of the people, programs, and partnerships of FHSU on our state.&nbsp;</p><p>On this year’s tour, Mason will be joined at several tour stops by the presidents of FHSU’s Strategic Affiliation partner universities, President Eric Burks of Fort Hays Tech | North Central, and President Ben Schears of Fort Hays Tech | Northwest. The trio will participate in panel discussions in Goodland and Beloit to share updates on the ongoing work of the Affiliation Implementation Teams charged with creating new academic pathways, integrating student services, and creating the business and community partnerships that best serve the workforce development needs of rural Kansas. The three presidents will also participate in TV and radio interviews in Wichita on October 30.</p><p><b>October 25: Dodge City, Garden City, and Goodland</b></p><p>Tour stops on day one will focus on addressing domestic violence and sex trafficking in rural Kansas. In addition, a panel discussion will be hosted by Fort Hays Tech | Northwest on our collaborative effort to enhance educational opportunities and services in rural Kansas. The construction and engineering design Affiliation Implementation Team is working to address regional workforce needs, expand student opportunities, and create innovative educational pathways between our three affiliation partner institutions.</p><p><b>October 28: Russell, Beloit, and Salina</b></p><p>Tour stops on day two will include two radio interviews and a panel discussion on how FHSU and Fort Hays Tech | North Central are working to address the shortage of nursing and healthcare services professionals in rural Kanas.&nbsp;</p><p><b>October 29: Topeka</b></p><p>President Mason will first visit the Topeka Correctional Institute for a radio interview about FHSU’s adult literacy outreach partnership that is helping incarcerated women connect with their children, grandchildren, and other family members. She will then meet with reporters to discuss the Docking Institute for Public Policy’s 2024 Kansas Speaks public opinion survey. Day three will conclude with a podcast interview and TV appearance that will focus on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative since it was launched in July of this year.</p><p><b>October 30: Wichita and Great Bend</b></p><p>Presidents Burks and Schears will join President Mason for a live TV interview and then participate in a radio interview. The three will share information on the progress of the Strategic Affiliation Initiative. The tour will conclude with two media interviews in Great Bend. The first will focus on the partnership between the university and the Kansas Bankers Association and the joint effort to recruit students interested in a career in banking and finance to come to FHSU and take advantage of the programs and professional networking offerings of the W. R. Robbins Banking Institute.&nbsp; The tour's final stop will be a news interview about the efforts of the FHSU Online Student Government to improve the online student experience for those who chose FHSU Online for its unmatched affordability, flexibility, and overall value.</p>

🎙 Mason to kick off 2024 FHSU President’s Kansas Media Tour on Friday

Call for entries is open through Nov. 8 for the 41st-annual 5-State Photography Competition and Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center.

The competition is open to photographers in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri and Colorado. 

Photographers of any age, background, experience level, subject preference and style are eligible to participate, said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director.

<a href="https://danwhite.com/">Dan White</a>, Kansas City, is a first-time juror for the competition. 

The internationally published photographer has won numerous awards, including a Pulitzer Prize as part of the Kansas City Star newspaper team covering the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks. White continues his 30-year career as a commercial fine art photographer and was recently inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame.

"His work is beautiful. ... I was so honored and pleased that he agreed to do it," Meder said.&nbsp;

White will select the works to be featured in the exhibition and award $1,500 in total cash awards.&nbsp;

Entry information,&nbsp;project details and entry forms are available on the Hays Arts Council&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">website</a>.&nbsp;

A record 671 photographs were submitted last year.

"We know we're going to exhibit at least 125 photos this year. Our goal is 150," Meder said.&nbsp;

The exhibition will anchor the Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Artists and exhibition venues downtown are still being sought for the art walk.

"I don't care if it's children's art or the most esteemed professional. ... We're not the art police," Meder said. 

"We want all forms out there so that people can see artistic expression is very broad, takes many different forms. It's not about somebody needing to be at a certain level or stature for it to be worthy of sharing."

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729102451402.png" alt="Hays Arts Council" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Arts Council</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="5-State Photography Competition upcoming at Hays Arts Center" 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=yivty-17165fd-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Call for entries is open through Nov. 8 for the 41st-annual 5-State Photography Competition and Exhibition at the Hays Arts Center.</p><p>The competition is open to photographers in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri and Colorado. </p><p>Photographers of any age, background, experience level, subject preference and style are eligible to participate, said Brenda Meder, Hays Arts Council executive director.</p><p><a href="https://danwhite.com/">Dan White</a>, Kansas City, is a first-time juror for the competition. </p><p>The internationally published photographer has won numerous awards, including a Pulitzer Prize as part of the Kansas City Star newspaper team covering the 1981 collapse of the Hyatt Regency Hotel skywalks. White continues his 30-year career as a commercial fine art photographer and was recently inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame.</p><p>"His work is beautiful. ... I was so honored and pleased that he agreed to do it," Meder said.&nbsp;</p><p>White will select the works to be featured in the exhibition and award $1,500 in total cash awards.&nbsp;</p><p>Entry information,&nbsp;project details and entry forms are available on the Hays Arts Council&nbsp;<a href="https://haysartscouncil.org/five-state">website</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>A record 671 photographs were submitted last year.</p><p>"We know we're going to exhibit at least 125 photos this year. Our goal is 150," Meder said.&nbsp;</p><p>The exhibition will anchor the Hays Arts Council Winter Art Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.</p><p>Artists and exhibition venues downtown are still being sought for the art walk.</p><p>"I don't care if it's children's art or the most esteemed professional. ... We're not the art police," Meder said. </p><p>"We want all forms out there so that people can see artistic expression is very broad, takes many different forms. It's not about somebody needing to be at a certain level or stature for it to be worthy of sharing."</p>

🎙 5-State Photography Competition upcoming at Hays Arts Center   

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Office of the State Fire Marshall&nbsp;Public Information Manager&nbsp;Lance Feyh about hurricane relief efforts.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ka8IJ-jhn2g?si=lDrxR15HO4YQn4ZK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Office of the State Fire Marshall&nbsp;Public Information Manager&nbsp;Lance Feyh about hurricane relief efforts.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Fire Marshall spokesman Lance Feyh

*Correction: Early voting begins Oct. 21 in Ellis County.

<i>On this episode of The Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Jonathan Zweygardt speaks with Ellis County Deputy Clerk Ruth Mermis about the 2024 general election cycle.</i>

<div><iframe title="Ellis Co. Deputy Clerk shares key election dates" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=aqi4q-1705bce-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p>*Correction: Early voting begins Oct. 21 in Ellis County.</p><p><i>On this episode of The Post Podcast Hays Post reporter Jonathan Zweygardt speaks with Ellis County Deputy Clerk Ruth Mermis about the 2024 general election cycle.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Ellis Co. Deputy Clerk shares key election dates

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Fort Hays State University assistant professor Morgan Steele.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5uGgZJcEk14?si=BIOfD3gx_ktb8BtA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Fort Hays State University assistant professor Morgan Steele.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU Criminalistics Professor Morgan Steele

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dobDNgOSMGA?si=lCBhPu7U5MDOzuTO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright

The annual Oktoberfest Hays celebration, a beloved tradition that honors the region’s rich Volga German heritage, is set to return with a full lineup of exciting activities on Friday, October 4, and Saturday, October 5.

Event organizers have officially released the schedule, offering a packed weekend of entertainment, contests, and cultural festivities for all ages.

This year’s Oktoberfest will be held at Municipal Park on Friday and Saturday, drawing thousands of attendees from the local area and beyond.

The event features a blend of traditional Volga German-inspired activities, live music, food, and competitions, providing two days of community-focused fun.

Friday, October 4th: Traditional Celebrations and Contests

The Oktoberfest festivities will kick off on Friday, October 4th from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with an opening ceremony scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at Municipal Park.

The day will begin with the ceremonial Tapping of the Keg at 11:00 a.m., a highlight that draws onlookers eager to join in the first toast of the festival.

Attendees can test their strength and endurance with a variety of competitions, including the Stein Holding Contest at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Deutsch Hops Contest at 4:00 p.m., both open to participants aged 21 and over.

For food enthusiasts, the OktoberFEAST Contest will take place at 5:00 p.m., offering a chance to celebrate and savor the flavors of Oktoberfest.

Live entertainment will fill the park throughout the day, with performances from popular local bands, including the Ron Werth Band, Rice County Line, and Jimmy Dee and The Fabulous Destinations.

Visitors can also enjoy park-wide attractions such as the Beer Puppeteers, High Striker, and the traditional Mug Toss.

Friday’s festivities will wrap up at 7:00 p.m., closing out the first day of the celebration.

Saturday, October 5th: Family Fun and Homecoming Parade

Oktoberfest continues on Saturday, October 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a strong focus on family-friendly activities and entertainment.

The day will kick off with the FHSU Homecoming Parade at 11:00 a.m., followed by a special Oktoberfest welcome ceremony at 12:30 p.m.

Competitive spirits can join in on the Cornhole Tournament at 12:00 p.m., with the crowd-favorite World’s Largest Bierock Reveal at 1:30 p.m., sponsored by Lewis Toyota.

Other fun games and contests include the German Freeze Game at 2:00 p.m., the Pumpkin Pass at 3:00 p.m., and the Pumpkin Rolling Contest at 4:00 p.m. for children in the West Shelter House.

Live music and entertainment will continue to keep the energy high throughout the day, with performances by Galen Schmidtberger, Karl Meis, and Rice County Line. Kids will have plenty to do as well, with games and entertainment available from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., featuring the popular Jammin Randy show. Bounce houses will also be open for young festival-goers from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“We are thrilled to bring this year's Oktoberfest Hays to life with a diverse schedule of activities that celebrate both our community and heritage,” said Emily Knowles, event coordinator for Oktoberfest Hays. “Our goal is to offer something for everyone, whether it's enjoying traditional German food, competing in the contests, or watching the live entertainment. It’s a chance for the community to come together, have fun, and honor our shared traditions.”

For more information about the event, including a detailed schedule of activities and vendor information, please visit the official Oktoberfest Hays website at oktoberfesthays.com.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1696009872779.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
                        <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Oktoberfest Hays releases official schedule for 2024 event" 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=tkq6d-16ea83a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><i>Submitted</i></p><p>The annual Oktoberfest Hays celebration, a beloved tradition that honors the region’s rich Volga German heritage, is set to return with a full lineup of exciting activities on Friday, October 4, and Saturday, October 5.</p><p>Event organizers have officially released the schedule, offering a packed weekend of entertainment, contests, and cultural festivities for all ages.</p><p>This year’s Oktoberfest will be held at Municipal Park on Friday and Saturday, drawing thousands of attendees from the local area and beyond.</p><p>The event features a blend of traditional Volga German-inspired activities, live music, food, and competitions, providing two days of community-focused fun.</p><p>Friday, October 4th: Traditional Celebrations and Contests</p><p>The Oktoberfest festivities will kick off on Friday, October 4th from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with an opening ceremony scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at Municipal Park.</p><p>The day will begin with the ceremonial Tapping of the Keg at 11:00 a.m., a highlight that draws onlookers eager to join in the first toast of the festival.</p><p>Attendees can test their strength and endurance with a variety of competitions, including the Stein Holding Contest at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Deutsch Hops Contest at 4:00 p.m., both open to participants aged 21 and over.</p><p>For food enthusiasts, the OktoberFEAST Contest will take place at 5:00 p.m., offering a chance to celebrate and savor the flavors of Oktoberfest.</p><p>Live entertainment will fill the park throughout the day, with performances from popular local bands, including the Ron Werth Band, Rice County Line, and Jimmy Dee and The Fabulous Destinations.</p><p>Visitors can also enjoy park-wide attractions such as the Beer Puppeteers, High Striker, and the traditional Mug Toss.</p><p>Friday’s festivities will wrap up at 7:00 p.m., closing out the first day of the celebration.</p><p>Saturday, October 5th: Family Fun and Homecoming Parade</p><p>Oktoberfest continues on Saturday, October 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a strong focus on family-friendly activities and entertainment.</p><p>The day will kick off with the FHSU Homecoming Parade at 11:00 a.m., followed by a special Oktoberfest welcome ceremony at 12:30 p.m.</p><p>Competitive spirits can join in on the Cornhole Tournament at 12:00 p.m., with the crowd-favorite World’s Largest Bierock Reveal at 1:30 p.m., sponsored by Lewis Toyota.</p><p>Other fun games and contests include the German Freeze Game at 2:00 p.m., the Pumpkin Pass at 3:00 p.m., and the Pumpkin Rolling Contest at 4:00 p.m. for children in the West Shelter House.</p><p>Live music and entertainment will continue to keep the energy high throughout the day, with performances by Galen Schmidtberger, Karl Meis, and Rice County Line. Kids will have plenty to do as well, with games and entertainment available from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., featuring the popular Jammin Randy show. Bounce houses will also be open for young festival-goers from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.</p><p>“We are thrilled to bring this year's Oktoberfest Hays to life with a diverse schedule of activities that celebrate both our community and heritage,” said Emily Knowles, event coordinator for Oktoberfest Hays. “Our goal is to offer something for everyone, whether it's enjoying traditional German food, competing in the contests, or watching the live entertainment. It’s a chance for the community to come together, have fun, and honor our shared traditions.”</p><p>For more information about the event, including a detailed schedule of activities and vendor information, please visit the official Oktoberfest Hays website at oktoberfesthays.com.</p>

🎙 Oktoberfest Hays releases official schedule for 2024 event

Three new housing and business development projects in Hays are moving forward after several funding mechanisms were approved by city commissioners on Thursday.&nbsp;

Hays developers plan two downtown housing projects.

Adam Pray has purchased the former Hays State Bank building at 11th and Main to redevelop into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb called Chestnut Suites.

The city approved a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant&nbsp; agreement between Hays and the state commerce department and between Hays and Chestnut Suites, along with a repayment agreement with the developer for the $3.2 million project.

An ordinance establishing a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) was also approved, and a development plan for housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut will be considered. 

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

The district is expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during its maximum 25-year term. The revenue would reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis.

"The investment you guys are making in downtown Hays is just fabulous," said Mayor Sandy Jacobs to Pray and Graham, who were in the audience.

"We're so lucky to have guys like you," said Mason Ruder, vice-mayor. "You're taking this risk and investing it right back in the community."

Commissioner Alaina Cunningham said she thought even the residents already living near the two planned developments will be excited about the new projects.&nbsp;

Funds were authorized for the 27th and Main Street business development project.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/838fe958-24ab-4afe-a463-4daa732a1c4f">Astra Bank</a>&nbsp;is relocating and building a new facility on that site.

&nbsp;The city will pay $89,000 to construct the stormwater management infrastructure at the south end of the property and $205,000&nbsp;to extend 26th Street through the development, which is half of the cost. The bank will pay the remainder.

Access to the new bank will be from 26th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city of Hays has purchased 1100 Fort, the existing Astra Bank building, to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.

Commissioners also awarded a $3.03 million bid by APAC-Kansas, Hays, for construction related to school improvements along the East 13th Street corridor between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway.

The reconstruction is a joint project between the city, Ellis County, the Kansas Department of Transportation and USD 489.&nbsp;The school district will reimburse the city $763,000 for their portion of the project. 

The city’s portion of the project includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, including widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installation of a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project and a mill and overlay of the complete roadway.&nbsp;

USD 489 is responsible for adding two right-turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded signals at 13th and Canterbury.

Mayor Shaun Musil, Commissioner Reese Barrick, City Manager Toby Dougherty and Finance Director Kim Rupp were absent from the meeting.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727466783089.jpeg" alt="Hays Deputy City Manager Collin Bielser, Mayor Sandy Jacobs, Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder and City Commissioner Alaina Cunningham during Thursday's city commission meeting. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Deputy City Manager Collin Bielser, Mayor Sandy Jacobs, Vice-Mayor Mason Ruder and City Commissioner Alaina Cunningham during Thursday's city commission meeting. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="New Hays housing, business developments take another step forward" 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=vpecc-16e8856-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Three new housing and business development projects in Hays are moving forward after several funding mechanisms were approved by city commissioners on Thursday.&nbsp;</p><p>Hays developers plan two downtown housing projects.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602173154574.jpeg" alt="1108 Main St. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>1108 Main St. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Adam Pray has purchased the former Hays State Bank building at 11th and Main to redevelop into a new luxury short-term rental Airbnb called Chestnut Suites.</p><p>The city approved a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant&nbsp; agreement between Hays and the state commerce department and between Hays and Chestnut Suites, along with a repayment agreement with the developer for the $3.2 million project.</p><p>An ordinance establishing a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District (RHID) was also approved, and a development plan for housing and public facilities at 10th and Walnut will be considered. </p><p>Hays developer Michael Graham Rentals is planning to build 48 apartments on the site of the former railroad depot parking lot in downtown Hays.</p><p>The district is expected to generate about $1.1 million of revenue during its maximum 25-year term. The revenue would reimburse the developer for an estimated $692,000 in RHID-eligible project costs on a pay-as-you-go basis.</p><p>"The investment you guys are making in downtown Hays is just fabulous," said Mayor Sandy Jacobs to Pray and Graham, who were in the audience.</p><p>"We're so lucky to have guys like you," said Mason Ruder, vice-mayor. "You're taking this risk and investing it right back in the community."</p><p>Commissioner Alaina Cunningham said she thought even the residents already living near the two planned developments will be excited about the new projects.&nbsp;</p><div><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W-tjgcwzVx8" title="Housing developments in Hays" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726850907046.png" alt="27th and Main. City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>27th and Main. City of Hays</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Funds were authorized for the 27th and Main Street business development project.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/838fe958-24ab-4afe-a463-4daa732a1c4f">Astra Bank</a>&nbsp;is relocating and building a new facility on that site.</p><p>&nbsp;The city will pay $89,000 to construct the stormwater management infrastructure at the south end of the property and $205,000&nbsp;to extend 26th Street through the development, which is half of the cost. The bank will pay the remainder.</p><p>Access to the new bank will be from 26th Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The city of Hays has purchased 1100 Fort, the existing Astra Bank building, to redevelop it as a new police station and municipal court facility.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727192724420.png" alt="East 13th Street widening project. City of Hays" />
                        <figcaption>East 13th Street widening project. City of Hays</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Commissioners also awarded a $3.03 million bid by APAC-Kansas, Hays, for construction related to school improvements along the East 13th Street corridor between Canterbury Drive and Commerce Parkway.</p><p>The reconstruction is a joint project between the city, Ellis County, the Kansas Department of Transportation and USD 489.&nbsp;The school district will reimburse the city $763,000 for their portion of the project. </p><p>The city’s portion of the project includes reconstructing the road from Anthony Drive to Commerce Parkway, including widening sections of East 13th Street from two to three lanes, installation of a multi-use path along the north side of the entire project and a mill and overlay of the complete roadway.&nbsp;</p><p>USD 489 is responsible for adding two right-turn lanes, pedestrian crossings, and upgraded signals at 13th and Canterbury.</p><p>Mayor Shaun Musil, Commissioner Reese Barrick, City Manager Toby Dougherty and Finance Director Kim Rupp were absent from the meeting.</p>

🎥 🎙 New Hays housing, business developments take another step forward 

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Trick or Treat so Others Can Eat organizer Shaina Prough.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VNU1-KpijY0?si=FcLQosZxo0_1jn6O" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Trick or Treat so Others Can Eat organizer Shaina Prough.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: Trick or Treat so Others Can Eat organizer Shaina Prough

<i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Gene Stramel and Traci Soukup discuss Medicare Part D and Advantage Plan enrollements with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="IPI Financial Services shares Medicare Part D enrollment information" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=yjmws-16ddee6-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Gene Stramel and Traci Soukup discuss Medicare Part D and Advantage Plan enrollements with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Cristina Janney.&nbsp; &nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: IPI Financial Services shares Medicare Part D enrollment information

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Hays Arts Council board member JoAnn Jennings about the For The Heart of Hays campaign.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y0H2uk81iqI?si=iOMAfQGeFaBIUpj3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Hays Arts Council board member JoAnn Jennings about the For The Heart of Hays campaign.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: Hays Arts Council board member JoAnn Jennings

<i>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about property taxes.</i>

<div><iframe title="Grow Hays director discusses property taxes" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=i5kp3-16dab3e-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Hays Post Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams about property taxes.</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays director discusses property taxes

<i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Brian Weimer discusses multi-year guaranteed annuities with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i>

<div><iframe title="Multi-year guaranteed annuities explained with IPI Financial Services" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9bqpt-16ce232-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of the <a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, <a href="http://www.ipifinancialservices.com/" target="_blank">IPI Financial Services</a> account executive Brian Weimer discusses multi-year guaranteed annuities with <a href="https://hayspost.com/" target="_blank">Hays Post</a> reporter Becky Kiser.&nbsp;&nbsp;</i></p>

🎙 Post Podcast: Multi-year guaranteed annuities explained with IPI Financial Services

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer and Public Information Officer Lisa Mussman about the successful I-70 bridge demolition in Trego County.</i>

<p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;KDOT Area Engineer Kevin Zimmer and Public Information Officer Lisa Mussman about the successful I-70 bridge demolition in Trego County.</i></p><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iy_AT6qdBDc?si=KYLLBy68A64bEd0c" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The bridge at mile post 117 on I-70 has successfully been demolished. Now onto the clean up so we can get I-70 back open!<br><br>If you are on the detour, please refrain from taking county side roads. We’re already starting to see problems with people doing that. <a href="https://t.co/dvK0AkMUmg">pic.twitter.com/dvK0AkMUmg</a></p>&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/1831351195031548137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎤Forward Ever: KDOT I-70 bridge demolition

The Hays Virtual School, which was started by USD 489 as an adult learning center for diploma completion, will celebrate its 25th year in January 2025.

It's one of the oldest virtual schools in Kansas, securing its state virtual licensure in the early 2000s.&nbsp;

Expansion and changes during the years brought the need for a virtual high school, said Sondra Hickert, lead educator.

"Fred Kaufman (former superintendent) and Mark Hauptman (former assistant superintendent) were dedicated to [starting] a USD 489 virtual school," she said.&nbsp;

What was formerly known as The Learning Center of Ellis County is now housed in the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St.

The school transitioned from an adult learning center to a traditional high school with students ages 14-19.

"We were able to offer them a web-based program where they could complete their high school diploma,"&nbsp;Hickert said.

"The state of Kansas requires they come through our doors for final exams in person for the program's integrity to be maintained, ensuring that it is that person who did the work," she said.&nbsp;

Last year, the program had 117 students. Seventy-one students started this academic year in August, and Hickert expects the number of students to increase.

Each student who enrolls is unique, she said.&nbsp;

"Our individual plan of study for each student is pivotal. It's the opportunity for them to have an education tailored to their lives, their needs and their expectations."

The reasons why students enroll in Hays Virtual School are varied.

"Maybe the student has given up on the idea of being a successful high school graduate at a traditional high school, regardless of where they might have attended," Hickert said.

"It may be that they want to accelerate their education," she said. "We've had students who want to go study in China, so they get some necessary high school credits out of the way."

Other students may have experienced trauma, such as losing a parent.&nbsp;

"It's a life-changing event," Hickert said, "and we can offer that student just a moment to recognize who they are and what they've been through and then begin to build their individual plan of study from their own life experiences."

The Fort Hays State University Department of Social Work put a master's level practicum position in the virtual school four years ago.&nbsp;

"That FHSU student comes alongside our students and helps them with education, everyday challenges and mental health. If there's a need that's keeping them from advancing academically, we get that need taken care of," Hickert said.&nbsp;

Students also utilize community resources partnered with the school, including transitional housing, life skills counseling and mentorships, food pantry and hygiene pack availability, apprenticeships, employment programs, and medical assistance programs.&nbsp;

Hickert said retaining these "vibrant, young, educated" individuals is important to the regional economy.&nbsp;

"Providing an opportunity for a high school diploma changes the workforce for our area, [with] local people doing regional work," she said. "We're keeping the life of our surrounding communities going."

Graduating students are prepared for college or career readiness.&nbsp;

Numerous graduates have qualified for career and technical education scholarships from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in Logan or the O'Brate Foundation in Garden City. One student even was awarded a physics and engineering scholarship from NASA.

Many of the graduates go on to complete programs at FHSU, Fort Hays Tech-North Central, Hays Academy of Hair Design and Barton Community College. Others begin immediately working in skilled trades.

Hickert said the Hays Virtual School students are taught how to learn.

"Our structure is a triangle," she said. "At the top apex is student needs. What does that student need to become a successful high school graduate?"&nbsp;

The lower two apexes are meeting standards to have a graduate either career-ready or college-ready and to graduate within four years as required by the U.S. Department of Education.&nbsp;

"We are a champion for our school in support of the USD 489 mission to provide a quality learning experience for every student in every classroom every day," Hickert said.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725912241917.jpeg" alt="Hays Virtual School graduates. Courtesy file photo" />
                        <figcaption>Hays Virtual School graduates. Courtesy file photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="USD 489 Hays Virtual School to celebrate 25th year in January" 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=kwg7x-16ce8c6-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>The Hays Virtual School, which was started by USD 489 as an adult learning center for diploma completion, will celebrate its 25th year in January 2025.</p><p>It's one of the oldest virtual schools in Kansas, securing its state virtual licensure in the early 2000s.&nbsp;</p><p>Expansion and changes during the years brought the need for a virtual high school, said Sondra Hickert, lead educator.</p><p>"Fred Kaufman (former superintendent) and Mark Hauptman (former assistant superintendent) were dedicated to [starting] a USD 489 virtual school," she said.&nbsp;</p><p>What was formerly known as The Learning Center of Ellis County is now housed in the Hadley Center, 205 E. Seventh St.</p><p>The school transitioned from an adult learning center to a traditional high school with students ages 14-19.</p><p>"We were able to offer them a web-based program where they could complete their high school diploma,"&nbsp;Hickert said.</p><p>"The state of Kansas requires they come through our doors for final exams in person for the program's integrity to be maintained, ensuring that it is that person who did the work," she said.&nbsp;</p><p>Last year, the program had 117 students. Seventy-one students started this academic year in August, and Hickert expects the number of students to increase.</p><p>Each student who enrolls is unique, she said.&nbsp;</p><p>"Our individual plan of study for each student is pivotal. It's the opportunity for them to have an education tailored to their lives, their needs and their expectations."</p><p>The reasons why students enroll in Hays Virtual School are varied.</p><p>"Maybe the student has given up on the idea of being a successful high school graduate at a traditional high school, regardless of where they might have attended," Hickert said.</p><p>Many students are from outside of Hays.</p><p>"It may be that they want to accelerate their education," she said. "We've had students who want to go study in China, so they get some necessary high school credits out of the way."</p><p>Other students may have experienced trauma, such as losing a parent.&nbsp;</p><p>"It's a life-changing event," Hickert said, "and we can offer that student just a moment to recognize who they are and what they've been through and then begin to build their individual plan of study from their own life experiences."</p><p>The Fort Hays State University Department of Social Work put a master's level practicum position in the virtual school four years ago.&nbsp;</p><p>"That FHSU student comes alongside our students and helps them with education, everyday challenges and mental health. If there's a need that's keeping them from advancing academically, we get that need taken care of," Hickert said.&nbsp;</p><p>Students also utilize community resources partnered with the school, including transitional housing, life skills counseling and mentorships, food pantry and hygiene pack availability, apprenticeships, employment programs, and medical assistance programs.&nbsp;</p><p>Hickert said retaining these "vibrant, young, educated" individuals is important to the regional economy.&nbsp;</p><p>"Providing an opportunity for a high school diploma changes the workforce for our area, [with] local people doing regional work," she said. "We're keeping the life of our surrounding communities going."</p><p>Graduating students are prepared for college or career readiness.&nbsp;</p><p>Numerous graduates have qualified for career and technical education scholarships from the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in Logan or the O'Brate Foundation in Garden City. One student even was awarded a physics and engineering scholarship from NASA.</p><p>Many of the graduates go on to complete programs at FHSU, Fort Hays Tech-North Central, Hays Academy of Hair Design and Barton Community College. Others begin immediately working in skilled trades.</p><p>Hickert said the Hays Virtual School students are taught how to learn.</p><p>"Our structure is a triangle," she said. "At the top apex is student needs. What does that student need to become a successful high school graduate?"&nbsp;</p><p>The lower two apexes are meeting standards to have a graduate either career-ready or college-ready and to graduate within four years as required by the U.S. Department of Education.&nbsp;</p><p>"We are a champion for our school in support of the USD 489 mission to provide a quality learning experience for every student in every classroom every day," Hickert said.</p>

🎙 USD 489 Hays Virtual School to celebrate 25th year in January 

<b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i>

Astra Bank officials broke ground on a new building at 27th and Main streets in Hays on Friday.

The bank purchased the property from the city of Hays. The city has also purchased the current Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, and will renovate it into its new police station and municipal court.

The city had intended to use the property at 27th and Main for the new police station, but renovating the current Astra Bank location will save the city about $5 million.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/feaccb3c-8500-45bc-b87d-804c7c322743">The Astra option is estimated to cost $8 million, while new construction would have cost about $13 million.</a>

The Astra facility would provide 23,000 square feet with room for expansion.

The proposed police station on Fort will also be across the street from the Ellis County Jail and Sheriff's Office.

Kyle Campbell, president and CEO of Astra Bank, said&nbsp;during the ground-breaking ceremony sponsored by The Chamber in Hays that the new bank location should benefit the bank.&nbsp;

He said the bank's current location did not meet its customers' banking needs today.

Among the upgrades will be better drive-through banking access, he said.

He joked that just during the groundbreaking, more traffic had gone by on 27th Street than during the entire week at their current location.

"It will be nice to be here where we are more accessible to the community, and I think also it will be a fantastic asset to the community in terms of starting the development of this really visible and prime location within Hays," Campbell said.

"We are very excited to be investing in Hays, and I want to thank all of you for taking the time to come out and help us celebrate this occasion, where we are looking forward to investing even more in the future of Hays."

The new bank is scheduled to be completed by summer 2025.

The project also will include retail or office space.

The lot is large enough that the bank hopes to work with a developer to build multi-family housing on the rest of the land.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/37d87ebe-0311-4ca6-889c-0e6b328a2de6">A new street will be constructed as part of the 27th and Main Street Addition.&nbsp;&nbsp;The property will have access along Fort Street, Main Street, 27th Street and from the planned extension of 26th Street through the center of the development. </a>

Campbell thanked the city, Grow Hays and local Astra Bank officials for their collaboration on the project.

"It has allowed us to get to what I think is truly a win-win for both the community and Astra Bank," he said.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725648650576.jpeg" alt="Ground is broken Friday on the new Astra Bank building at 27th and Main streets in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Ground is broken Friday on the new Astra Bank building at 27th and Main streets in Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Astra Bank breaks ground on new building at 27th, Main in Hays" 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=hi2a5-16c77df-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By CRISTINA JANNEY<br></b><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>Astra Bank officials broke ground on a new building at 27th and Main streets in Hays on Friday.</p><p>The bank purchased the property from the city of Hays. The city has also purchased the current Astra Bank building, 1100 Fort, and will renovate it into its new police station and municipal court.</p><p>The city had intended to use the property at 27th and Main for the new police station, but renovating the current Astra Bank location will save the city about $5 million.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/feaccb3c-8500-45bc-b87d-804c7c322743">The Astra option is estimated to cost $8 million, while new construction would have cost about $13 million.</a></p><p>The Astra facility would provide 23,000 square feet with room for expansion.</p><p>The proposed police station on Fort will also be across the street from the Ellis County Jail and Sheriff's Office.</p><p>Kyle Campbell, president and CEO of Astra Bank, said&nbsp;during the ground-breaking ceremony sponsored by The Chamber in Hays that the new bank location should benefit the bank.&nbsp;</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725648763058.jpeg" alt="Kyle Campbell, president and CEO of Astra Bank, speaks to a crowd gathered for the groundbreaking of the bank's new building in Hays. To the left is a conceptual drawing of the new building. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
                        <figcaption>Kyle Campbell, president and CEO of Astra Bank, speaks to a crowd gathered for the groundbreaking of the bank's new building in Hays. To the left is a conceptual drawing of the new building. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>He said the bank's current location did not meet its customers' banking needs today.</p><p>Among the upgrades will be better drive-through banking access, he said.</p><p>He joked that just during the groundbreaking, more traffic had gone by on 27th Street than during the entire week at their current location.</p><p>"It will be nice to be here where we are more accessible to the community, and I think also it will be a fantastic asset to the community in terms of starting the development of this really visible and prime location within Hays," Campbell said.</p><p>"We are very excited to be investing in Hays, and I want to thank all of you for taking the time to come out and help us celebrate this occasion, where we are looking forward to investing even more in the future of Hays."</p><p>The new bank is scheduled to be completed by summer 2025.</p><p>The project also will include retail or office space.</p><p>The lot is large enough that the bank hopes to work with a developer to build multi-family housing on the rest of the land.</p><p><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/37d87ebe-0311-4ca6-889c-0e6b328a2de6">A new street will be constructed as part of the 27th and Main Street Addition.&nbsp;&nbsp;The property will have access along Fort Street, Main Street, 27th Street and from the planned extension of 26th Street through the center of the development. </a></p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725649047637.png" alt="27th and Main Street Development" />
                        <figcaption>27th and Main Street Development</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Campbell thanked the city, Grow Hays and local Astra Bank officials for their collaboration on the project.</p><p>"It has allowed us to get to what I think is truly a win-win for both the community and Astra Bank," he said.</p>

Astra Bank breaks ground on new building at 27th, Main in Hays

<i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Ms. Wheelchair America&nbsp;Tamara Blackwell.</i>

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GBIy1dfbVY4?si=k3AZxslDQdFrhyJr" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p><i>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Ms. Wheelchair America&nbsp;Tamara Blackwell.</i></p>

🎤Forward Ever: Ms. Wheelchair America Tamara Blackwell

One of the biggest fundraisers for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation is set for Saturday, Sept. 14.

 Tickets are available online&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/">www.downtownhays.com</a> and at the DHDC office, 1200 Main.

Wines &amp; Steins starts at 6 p.m. with check-in at the downtown pavilion, 10th and Main, and then a leisurely stroll through 12 business locations in historic downtown Hays. The stroll-stop hosts have lined up a large variety of tasty hors d'oeuvres from local restaurants to pair with the different wines and micro-beers sampled at each location.

Following the stroll, the fun moves under the pavilion with live music, complimentary drinks, a dessert bar, and an auction featuring experience items, tastings, a golf package and overnight stays in popular locations.&nbsp;

A basket of gift cards worth several hundred dollars donated by DHDC board members will also be up for grabs.&nbsp;

Commemorative glassware is designed each year for Wines &amp; Steins. 

"People love to collect these," said Julie Rider, DHDC executive director. "Every style is unique."&nbsp;

Auto World is again the presenting glassware sponsor.

Other Wine &amp; Steins sponsors include Astra Bank, Insurance Planning, Nex-Tech, Nex-Tech Wireless, Midwest Energy, and Robert Brogden GMC. Contributors are Regeena's Flowers &amp; Events, Wedding Connections, 8th Street Liquor, G&amp;L Tire, Northwestern Printers, Coors, Wil Fischer Distributing, and Pepsi.

DHDC is not a membership organization, and downtown businesses do not pay dues or fees.&nbsp;

As a private nonprofit, DHDC receives about 60 percent of its annual budget through fundraisers and private donations to its partnership program.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725396839755.png" alt="The annual Wines &amp; Steins fundraiser for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation is Saturday, Sept. 14. Courtesy images" />
                        <figcaption>The annual Wines &amp; Steins fundraiser for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation is Saturday, Sept. 14. Courtesy images</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><iframe title="Wines & Steins fundraiser for DHDC features tastings, live music, auction" 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=53wct-16c644f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><p><b>By BECKY KISER</b><br><i>Hays Post</i></p><p>One of the biggest fundraisers for the Downtown Hays Development Corporation is set for Saturday, Sept. 14.</p><p> Tickets are available online&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/">www.downtownhays.com</a> and at the DHDC office, 1200 Main.</p><p>Wines &amp; Steins starts at 6 p.m. with check-in at the downtown pavilion, 10th and Main, and then a leisurely stroll through 12 business locations in historic downtown Hays. The stroll-stop hosts have lined up a large variety of tasty hors d'oeuvres from local restaurants to pair with the different wines and micro-beers sampled at each location.</p><p>Following the stroll, the fun moves under the pavilion with live music, complimentary drinks, a dessert bar, and an auction featuring experience items, tastings, a golf package and overnight stays in popular locations.&nbsp;</p><p>A basket of gift cards worth several hundred dollars donated by DHDC board members will also be up for grabs.&nbsp;</p><p>Commemorative glassware is designed each year for Wines &amp; Steins. </p><p>"People love to collect these," said Julie Rider, DHDC executive director. "Every style is unique."&nbsp;</p><p>Auto World is again the presenting glassware sponsor.</p><p>Other Wine &amp; Steins sponsors include Astra Bank, Insurance Planning, Nex-Tech, Nex-Tech Wireless, Midwest Energy, and Robert Brogden GMC. Contributors are Regeena's Flowers &amp; Events, Wedding Connections, 8th Street Liquor, G&amp;L Tire, Northwestern Printers, Coors, Wil Fischer Distributing, and Pepsi.</p><p>DHDC is not a membership organization, and downtown businesses do not pay dues or fees.&nbsp;</p><p>As a private nonprofit, DHDC receives about 60 percent of its annual budget through fundraisers and private donations to its partnership program.</p><p>"Our funding allows us to promote downtown through advertising, hosting our website and the Downtown Directory. We welcome new businesses and celebrate big milestones for existing businesses with brick presentations," Rider said.&nbsp;</p><p>"The funding helps us put together retailer events like Bazaar on the Bricks and the Christmas holiday programs, as well as community events we host, like the Downtown Hays Market and the FrostFest parade."</p><p>The DHDC board is in the process of planning several downtown beautification projects.&nbsp;</p><p>"We promote downtown as a whole," Rider said. "We want everybody to be successful because when one business succeeds, we all succeed."</p><p><a href="https://www.downtownhays.com/event-details/wines-steins-2024">Wines &amp; Steins tickets</a> are $65 for general admission and $85 for the VIP experience, which includes early check-in at the pavilion and personal delivery of a tasting glass and gifts earlier in the week.</p><p>Guests must be 21 to attend.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>