By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

COLBY - Goodland has been a thorn in the side of Hays High at the Orange &amp; Black Classic in Colby. The Indians lost three consecutive years to the Cowgirls. Two of those times was in the semifinals and another in the first round.

Thursday Hays defeated Goodland 54-31. The Cowgirls led early on a three pointer and then held an 8-2 advantage three minutes in.

Hays the launched into a 18-1 run that lasted into the second quarter. Jenna Schmeidler scored the first 12 points of that stretch. The Indians led 16-9 after the first quarter and increased the lead to 20-9. Goodland broke a six minute scoring drought with a basket at 20-12.

Hays used a 6-1 spurt to lead 26-13 at halftime.&nbsp;

Hays was never threatened in the second half. The Cowgirls were never closer than 13 points. The Indians led by 18 after three quarters 38-20.&nbsp;

The biggest lead ballooned to 27 points at one time 51-24 before settling for a 54-31 victory.

Hays (10-0) will face #1-4A Wellington in the semifinals at 3:00 Friday. The Hertz Pregame Show starts at 2:40. Goodland (7-4) will play Concordia.

Jenna Schmeidler 15; Annie Humphrey 1; Katie Linenberger 10; Molly Martin 12; Kenlee Winter 0; Morgan Armbruster 5; Jaysa Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 0; Lynsi Kanak 0; Molly Buckles 6; Zoe Winter 4; Liz Cunningham 1; Rylen Harrington 0.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostCOLBY - Goodland has been a thorn in the side of Hays High at the Orange &amp; Black Classic in Colby. The Indians lost three consecutive years to the Cowgirls. Two of those times was in the semifinals and another in the first round.Thursday Hays defeated Goodland 54-31. The Cowgirls led early on a three pointer and then held an 8-2 advantage three minutes in.Hays the launched into a 18-1 run that lasted into the second quarter. Jenna Schmeidler scored the first 12 points of that stretch. The Indians led 16-9 after the first quarter and increased the lead to 20-9. Goodland broke a six minute scoring drought with a basket at 20-12.Hays used a 6-1 spurt to lead 26-13 at halftime.&nbsp;Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016888747&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/1-23-25-hhs-wbkb-highlights-v-goodland" title="1 - 23 - 25 HHS WBKB Highlights V. Goodland" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">1 - 23 - 25 HHS WBKB Highlights V. Goodland</a></div></div>Hays was never threatened in the second half. The Cowgirls were never closer than 13 points. The Indians led by 18 after three quarters 38-20.&nbsp;The biggest lead ballooned to 27 points at one time 51-24 before settling for a 54-31 victory.Coach Len Melvin<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016888603&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/1-23-25-hhs-wbkb-coach-interview-v-goodland" title="1 - 23 - 25 HHS WBKB Coach Interview V. Goodland" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">1 - 23 - 25 HHS WBKB Coach Interview V. Goodland</a></div></div>Hays (10-0) will face #1-4A Wellington in the semifinals at 3:00 Friday. The Hertz Pregame Show starts at 2:40. Goodland (7-4) will play Concordia.Jenna Schmeidler 15; Annie Humphrey 1; Katie Linenberger 10; Molly Martin 12; Kenlee Winter 0; Morgan Armbruster 5; Jaysa Roa 0; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 0; Lynsi Kanak 0; Molly Buckles 6; Zoe Winter 4; Liz Cunningham 1; Rylen Harrington 0.

🏀 #8 Hays girls advance in Colby tournament

By JONATHAN ZEWYGARDT Hays Post&nbsp;

HAYS - The TMP-Marian boys' and girls' basketball teams earned two wins Thursday in the consolation semifinals of the Mid-Continent League tournament, securing a spot in the fifth-place games Saturday in WaKeeney.&nbsp;

The TMP Lady Monarchs (5-5) used an 11-3 run in the first half and then held off a late Norton rally as they beat the Lady Jays 36-29.

TMP rushed out to an early 6-2 lead thanks to four straight by Brooke Koenigsman. Only to see Norton score five straight for a 7-6 lead.

Claire Schippers was able to give the Monarchs the lead back, scoring four straight putting TMP up 10-7.&nbsp;

The Monarchs led 10-8 after the first quarter.

A Hannah Rose three-point play sparked an 11-3 run to close out the first half and open the third quarter as&nbsp; TMP took a 21-11 lead.

Norton closed within two in the fourth quarter, but the Monarchs secured the victory at the free-throw line, 36-29.

Brooke Koenigsman led all scorers with 10 points and added nine rebounds.&nbsp;

The TMP-M (4-6) boys used a 21-2 run in the second half as they knocked off the Phillipsburg Panthers Thursday 56-45.

TMP scored the game's first six points, and Phillipsburg answered right back with six straight, tying the game at six. It was one of nine different lead changes in the first two before the Monarchs took control with the 21-2 run.&nbsp;

Grant Nehls scored eight points during the run, which was capped off by Will Eck's three-pointers, putting TMP up 45-30 early in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;

Phillipsburg threatened in the fourth quarter, trimming a 15-point TMP lead to seven with under four minutes left in the game, but TMP made their free throws down the stretch and secured a 56-45 victory.

Grant Nehls matched his career-high 18 points and added eight rebounds. Ty Schmeidler added 10 points.

The TMP girls will take on Russell in the fifth-place game at approximately 2:30 p.m.

The boys will play Oakley after the girl's game at the Trego Auxiliary Gym.

By JONATHAN ZEWYGARDT Hays Post&nbsp;HAYS - The TMP-Marian boys' and girls' basketball teams earned two wins Thursday in the consolation semifinals of the Mid-Continent League tournament, securing a spot in the fifth-place games Saturday in WaKeeney.&nbsp;GIRLS: TMP 36, Norton 29The TMP Lady Monarchs (5-5) used an 11-3 run in the first half and then held off a late Norton rally as they beat the Lady Jays 36-29.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016899179&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/01-23-25-coach-john-linn-interview" title="01 - 23 - 25 Coach John Linn Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">01 - 23 - 25 Coach John Linn Interview</a></div></div>TMP rushed out to an early 6-2 lead thanks to four straight by Brooke Koenigsman. Only to see Norton score five straight for a 7-6 lead.Claire Schippers was able to give the Monarchs the lead back, scoring four straight putting TMP up 10-7.&nbsp;The Monarchs led 10-8 after the first quarter.A Hannah Rose three-point play sparked an 11-3 run to close out the first half and open the third quarter as&nbsp; TMP took a 21-11 lead.Norton closed within two in the fourth quarter, but the Monarchs secured the victory at the free-throw line, 36-29.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016899235&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/01-23-25-tmp-wbkb-vs-norton-highlights" title="01 - 23 - 25 TMP WBKB Vs Norton Highlights" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">01 - 23 - 25 TMP WBKB Vs Norton Highlights</a></div></div>Brooke Koenigsman led all scorers with 10 points and added nine rebounds.&nbsp;BOYS: TMP 56, Phillipsburg 45The TMP-M (4-6) boys used a 21-2 run in the second half as they knocked off the Phillipsburg Panthers Thursday 56-45.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016899203&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/01-23-25-tmp-coach-bill-meagher-interview" title="01 - 23 - 25 TMP Coach Bill Meagher Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">01 - 23 - 25 TMP Coach Bill Meagher Interview</a></div></div>TMP scored the game's first six points, and Phillipsburg answered right back with six straight, tying the game at six. It was one of nine different lead changes in the first two before the Monarchs took control with the 21-2 run.&nbsp;Grant Nehls scored eight points during the run, which was capped off by Will Eck's three-pointers, putting TMP up 45-30 early in the fourth quarter.&nbsp;Phillipsburg threatened in the fourth quarter, trimming a 15-point TMP lead to seven with under four minutes left in the game, but TMP made their free throws down the stretch and secured a 56-45 victory.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016899203&color=%23294b71&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/01-23-25-tmp-coach-bill-meagher-interview" title="01 - 23 - 25 TMP Coach Bill Meagher Interview" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">01 - 23 - 25 TMP Coach Bill Meagher Interview</a></div></div>Grant Nehls matched his career-high 18 points and added eight rebounds. Ty Schmeidler added 10 points.The TMP girls will take on Russell in the fifth-place game at approximately 2:30 p.m.The boys will play Oakley after the girl's game at the Trego Auxiliary Gym.

🏀TMP girls and boys pick up MCL tournament wins; will play for 5th

CLAREMORE, Okla. - The 11th-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team shook off a slow start to pick up another double-digit win on Thursday, defeating Rogers State on the road 60-50. The Tigers improve to 15-2 overall and 6-2 in league play with the win, while the Hillcats are now 7-11 overall and 1-8 in league action.

Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;finished the night with a game-high 18 points, putting her over the 2,000-point plateau for her career. The Maize, Kan. native is just the second player to reach that milestone in program history.

Both teams struggled to light up the scoreboard in the first quarter, with the squads combining to hit just four field goals in the first 10 minutes. FHSU hit three of those, with the Tiger defense holding Rogers State to 1-of-11 shooting while creating seven turnovers in the opening frame.

After leading 9-5 at the end of the first quarter, tied for FHSU's lowest-scoring quarter in a game this season, the Tigers started to get things to fall in the second stanza. DeGarmo, Talexa Weeter&nbsp;and Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;all hit a pair of shots in the quarter, helping the Tigers shoot 53.8 percent (7-of-13) after shooting just 23.1 percent (3-of-13) in the opening quarter.

The lead changed hands four times in the first half, with neither side leading by more than four points. The Hillcats led with two minutes to go before halftime, but a jumper from DeGarmo gave the Tigers the lead for good with 1:49 left in the second. FHSU later went into the locker room up 27-23 when Weeter drilled a 3-pointer in the final minute of the half.

Rogers State hung around over the first five minutes of the second half, with the Hillcats trimming the deficit to two points on three separate occasions. Fort Hays State took control after the media timeout, however, with the Tigers finishing the frame on a 10-0 lead to push the lead to 43-31.

DeGarmo helped push the Tigers to the finish line in the fourth quarter, totaling 12 of her game-high 18 points in the final frame after hitting all five of her field goal attempts. In fact, the graduate student finished the game with seven-consecutive made shots after missing her first six from the floor.

Weeter contributed 17 points, two steals and two blocks, while Hollenbeck totaled 12 points, five rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Kate Dilsaver&nbsp;hit both of her 3-point attempts, helping the senior finish the night with 10 points. Dilsaver and DeGarmo tied for the team lead with four assists, while DeGarmo collected a team-high eight rebounds.

Rogers State outrebounded the Tigers by six, 34-28, just the second time FHSU has been outrebounded this season. The teams combined for 15 offensive rebounds, including 12 by the Tigers, however neither squad was able to record a second chance point.

After hitting just 23.1 percent (3-of-13) from the floor in the opening quarter, the Tigers proceeded to knock down 52.7 percent (19-of-36) over the next 30 minutes to finish the day shooting 44.9 percent (22-of-49). The Tiger defense held Rogers State to a season-low 27.9 percent shooting (17-of-61) and created 20 turnovers.

Fort Hays State's four-game road trip continues on Saturday, January 25 when the Tigers travel to Edmond, Okla. to take on Central Oklahoma beginning at 1:30 p.m. FHSU will then play road games at Washburn and Central Missouri next weekend before returning home on Thursday, February 6 to host Northeastern State

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737694759773.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsCLAREMORE, Okla. - The 11th-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team shook off a slow start to pick up another double-digit win on Thursday, defeating Rogers State on the road 60-50. The Tigers improve to 15-2 overall and 6-2 in league play with the win, while the Hillcats are now 7-11 overall and 1-8 in league action.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016938371&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/talia-khars-postgame-interview-vs-rogers-state-jan-23rd-25-01" title="Talia Kahrs Postgame at Rogers State (January 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Talia Kahrs Postgame at Rogers State (January 23, 2025)</a></div></div>Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;finished the night with a game-high 18 points, putting her over the 2,000-point plateau for her career. The Maize, Kan. native is just the second player to reach that milestone in program history.Both teams struggled to light up the scoreboard in the first quarter, with the squads combining to hit just four field goals in the first 10 minutes. FHSU hit three of those, with the Tiger defense holding Rogers State to 1-of-11 shooting while creating seven turnovers in the opening frame.After leading 9-5 at the end of the first quarter, tied for FHSU's lowest-scoring quarter in a game this season, the Tigers started to get things to fall in the second stanza. DeGarmo, Talexa Weeter&nbsp;and Olivia Hollenbeck&nbsp;all hit a pair of shots in the quarter, helping the Tigers shoot 53.8 percent (7-of-13) after shooting just 23.1 percent (3-of-13) in the opening quarter.The lead changed hands four times in the first half, with neither side leading by more than four points. The Hillcats led with two minutes to go before halftime, but a jumper from DeGarmo gave the Tigers the lead for good with 1:49 left in the second. FHSU later went into the locker room up 27-23 when Weeter drilled a 3-pointer in the final minute of the half.Rogers State hung around over the first five minutes of the second half, with the Hillcats trimming the deficit to two points on three separate occasions. Fort Hays State took control after the media timeout, however, with the Tigers finishing the frame on a 10-0 lead to push the lead to 43-31.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016936667&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fhsu-wbkb-highlights-vs-rogers-state-jan-23rd-25" title="#11 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights at Rogers State (January 23, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">#11 Fort Hays State WBB Highlights at Rogers State (January 23, 2025)</a></div></div>DeGarmo helped push the Tigers to the finish line in the fourth quarter, totaling 12 of her game-high 18 points in the final frame after hitting all five of her field goal attempts. In fact, the graduate student finished the game with seven-consecutive made shots after missing her first six from the floor.Weeter contributed 17 points, two steals and two blocks, while Hollenbeck totaled 12 points, five rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. Kate Dilsaver&nbsp;hit both of her 3-point attempts, helping the senior finish the night with 10 points. Dilsaver and DeGarmo tied for the team lead with four assists, while DeGarmo collected a team-high eight rebounds.Rogers State outrebounded the Tigers by six, 34-28, just the second time FHSU has been outrebounded this season. The teams combined for 15 offensive rebounds, including 12 by the Tigers, however neither squad was able to record a second chance point.After hitting just 23.1 percent (3-of-13) from the floor in the opening quarter, the Tigers proceeded to knock down 52.7 percent (19-of-36) over the next 30 minutes to finish the day shooting 44.9 percent (22-of-49). The Tiger defense held Rogers State to a season-low 27.9 percent shooting (17-of-61) and created 20 turnovers.UP NEXTFort Hays State's four-game road trip continues on Saturday, January 25 when the Tigers travel to Edmond, Okla. to take on Central Oklahoma beginning at 1:30 p.m. FHSU will then play road games at Washburn and Central Missouri next weekend before returning home on Thursday, February 6 to host Northeastern State

🏀 DeGarmo reaches 2,000 points in Tigers win at Rogers State

COLBY - Hays High opened up the 40th Colby Orange &amp; Black Classic with a 51-31 victory against Concordia Thursday afternoon. The Indians are 17-5 in the first round of the tournament.

Hays trailed just once in the game at 2-0 when Concordia scored on the first possession. The Indians took the lead on a 7-0 run midway through the opening quarter. Concordia did cut the lead down to one by the end of the first quarter 7-6.

Hays opened the second quarter with a 6-0 run and closed it with 12-2 run. The Indians led 13-6 after the first run before the Panthers closed it down to one possession at 13-11. Hays closed the half with a 12-2 run that pushed their advantage to 25-13 at halftime. Concordia went scoreless for the last 3:45 of the quarter.

Hays took a 2o point lead in the first two minutes of the third quarter thanks to a 9-0 run. The Indians went scoreless for 3:50 but gave back just seven points. Back-to-back three pointers by the Indians broke the drought and put Hays ahead 40-21.

The lead was 17 heading to the fourth quarter and hovered around 20 for rest of the game with the final at 51-31.&nbsp;

Dawson Ruder recorded his second double-double of the season at 13 points and 14 rebounds. He had the double-double by halftime.

Hays (6-4) has won their last three games. Concordia (6-2) has lost their last two after winning six straight to start the season. Hays will face the winner of Colby and Beloit at 8:15 on Friday evening.

Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 11; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindemeyer 3; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 3; Tiger Johnson 10; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 9; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Dawson Ruder 13; Alex Loving 2.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostCOLBY - Hays High opened up the 40th Colby Orange &amp; Black Classic with a 51-31 victory against Concordia Thursday afternoon. The Indians are 17-5 in the first round of the tournament.Hays trailed just once in the game at 2-0 when Concordia scored on the first possession. The Indians took the lead on a 7-0 run midway through the opening quarter. Concordia did cut the lead down to one by the end of the first quarter 7-6.Hays opened the second quarter with a 6-0 run and closed it with 12-2 run. The Indians led 13-6 after the first run before the Panthers closed it down to one possession at 13-11. Hays closed the half with a 12-2 run that pushed their advantage to 25-13 at halftime. Concordia went scoreless for the last 3:45 of the quarter.Highlights<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016768487&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/1-23-25-hhs-mbkb-highlights-v-concordia" title="1 - 23 - 25 HHS MBKB Highlights V. Concordia" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">1 - 23 - 25 HHS MBKB Highlights V. Concordia</a></div></div>Hays took a 2o point lead in the first two minutes of the third quarter thanks to a 9-0 run. The Indians went scoreless for 3:50 but gave back just seven points. Back-to-back three pointers by the Indians broke the drought and put Hays ahead 40-21.The lead was 17 heading to the fourth quarter and hovered around 20 for rest of the game with the final at 51-31.&nbsp;Coach Sean Dreiling<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/2016768275&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/1-23-25-hhs-mbkb-coach-interview-v-concordia" title="1 - 23 - 25 HHS MBKB Coach Interview V. Concordia" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">1 - 23 - 25 HHS MBKB Coach Interview V. Concordia</a></div></div>Dawson Ruder recorded his second double-double of the season at 13 points and 14 rebounds. He had the double-double by halftime.Hays (6-4) has won their last three games. Concordia (6-2) has lost their last two after winning six straight to start the season. Hays will face the winner of Colby and Beloit at 8:15 on Friday evening.Carter Lang 0; Johnny Cano 11; Trace Jacobs 0; Cooper Lindemeyer 3; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 3; Tiger Johnson 10; Brody Harmony 0; Izaac Fox 9; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 0; Dawson Ruder 13; Alex Loving 2.

🏀 Hays boys open tournament play with victory

New Parent Information Night is Monday, Jan. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at TMP-Marian, 1701 Hall, Hays. 

This night is specially designed for parents whose children attended Monarch For a Day on Jan. 16. However, any interested parents are welcome.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737667115496.png" alt="Thomas More Prep Marian High School, Hays" />
 <figcaption>Thomas More Prep Marian High School, Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedNew Parent Information Night is Monday, Jan. 27 at 6:30 p.m. at TMP-Marian, 1701 Hall, Hays. This night is specially designed for parents whose children attended Monarch For a Day on Jan. 16. However, any interested parents are welcome.

New parent information night to be held at TMP-Marian

Hays High School won eight of the 11 events at its own boys’ swim meet Tuesday, bettering its seeding times for the meet in every single championship finish and recording several state-consideration times in the process.

Leading the way for HHS at Fort Hays State University’s Tiger Aquatics Center were senior Marshall Sook and juniors Karsen Flaska and Chase Zadina, who collectively were part of all eight of those championship performances.

Sook won the 50-yard freestyle with a state-qualifying time of 23.46 seconds, finished first in the 100-yard butterfly with a state-consideration time and joined Flaska and Zadina on the first-place 200-yard and 400-yard relay teams.

Flaska won the 200-yard individual medley and the 100-yard breaststroke. Zadina won the individual 200-yard and 100-yard freestyle races and might have saved his best for last when he anchored the 400-yard freestyle relay to its season-best time in the day's final race.

That winning time of 3 minutes, 49.21 seconds, not only crushed the Indians’ previous-best time by more than 7 seconds but also hit the state-consideration standard for that event.

Completing the foursome for that relay team was sophomore Cedric Durr, who also placed second in the 100-yard backstroke and third in the 50-yard freestyle races.

The final member of the 200-yard relay team was junior Jude Hileman, who also finished runner-up in the 100-yard butterfly and third in the 100-yard backstroke, a performance that helped the Indians claim a 1-2-3 sweep in that event.

Rounding out the list of top-three finishes for the Indians was junior Noah Schaeffer, who finished third in the 100-yard breaststroke, shaving more than 5 seconds off his previous season-best time.

Garden City and Junction City, which fielded enough swimmers to have several entries in each event, finished first and second in team scoring with 496 and 465 points, respectively. Because of their multiple championship efforts, the Indians scored an impressive 449 points to finish third in team scoring.

Next up for the Indians is Tuesday at the Topeka High meet at the Hummer Sports Complex’s Capitol Federal Natatorium in Topeka.

Hays PostHays High School won eight of the 11 events at its own boys’ swim meet Tuesday, bettering its seeding times for the meet in every single championship finish and recording several state-consideration times in the process.Leading the way for HHS at Fort Hays State University’s Tiger Aquatics Center were senior Marshall Sook and juniors Karsen Flaska and Chase Zadina, who collectively were part of all eight of those championship performances.Sook won the 50-yard freestyle with a state-qualifying time of 23.46 seconds, finished first in the 100-yard butterfly with a state-consideration time and joined Flaska and Zadina on the first-place 200-yard and 400-yard relay teams.Flaska won the 200-yard individual medley and the 100-yard breaststroke. Zadina won the individual 200-yard and 100-yard freestyle races and might have saved his best for last when he anchored the 400-yard freestyle relay to its season-best time in the day's final race.That winning time of 3 minutes, 49.21 seconds, not only crushed the Indians’ previous-best time by more than 7 seconds but also hit the state-consideration standard for that event.Completing the foursome for that relay team was sophomore Cedric Durr, who also placed second in the 100-yard backstroke and third in the 50-yard freestyle races.The final member of the 200-yard relay team was junior Jude Hileman, who also finished runner-up in the 100-yard butterfly and third in the 100-yard backstroke, a performance that helped the Indians claim a 1-2-3 sweep in that event.Rounding out the list of top-three finishes for the Indians was junior Noah Schaeffer, who finished third in the 100-yard breaststroke, shaving more than 5 seconds off his previous season-best time.Garden City and Junction City, which fielded enough swimmers to have several entries in each event, finished first and second in team scoring with 496 and 465 points, respectively. Because of their multiple championship efforts, the Indians scored an impressive 449 points to finish third in team scoring.Next up for the Indians is Tuesday at the Topeka High meet at the Hummer Sports Complex’s Capitol Federal Natatorium in Topeka.

Hays High excels at home swim meet

Sonja M. Ruder, formerly of
Plainville, Kansas, passed away on January 20, 2025, at the Via Christi Village
in Hays, at the age of 84. She was born in a car on January 6, 1941, to Donald
and Marion Florene (Hindman) Grieve in Stockton, Kansas. Though her parents
initially believed she had passed away, she was placed in a shoe box, proving
from the very beginning to be a true survivor. 

She was married on December
28, 1960, to Gerald “Jerry” Ruder in Plainville. He preceded her in death on
September 11, 2020. &nbsp;

Sonja grew up in Stockton and
graduated from Stockton High School in 1958. She moved to Plainville in the
late 50s and lived there until June of 2020. Sonja moved to Brookdale Assisted
Living in Hays, and then in June of 2023, she transferred to Via Christi
Village. A self-educated woman, Sonja attended college classes around
Plainville and built a diverse career. She worked as a telephone operator, an
insurance agent, a tax preparer, all the while learning about investing. Her
first job in banking was with Rooks County Savings and Loan. She continued in
banking with First Federal Lincoln Bank, eventually becoming manager. &nbsp;She was a valued member of the community,
including her involvement with the Lions Club, the Plainville Chamber of
Commerce, and the Rooks County Health Center Auxiliary. Sonja also served on
the Plainville Memorial Library board for many years, and was a member of a
book club there. 

Sonja was a creative writer
with a passion for reading, especially non-fiction. She was an avid learner and
enjoyed the quiet moments of reflection in her favorite books. She was also a
talented seamstress, learning the craft from her grandmother, and her creations
were always admired. Her grandmother instilled in her the passion to make the
perfect pie; her family enjoyed the practicing results. 

Known for her quirky sense of
humor, Sonja loved the Grinch, eagles, and orange cats. She found joy in riding
her bike with her neighbors, often spending hours exploring the world around
her. Above all, Sonja was a great conversationalist, always available for her
family and friends, offering kind words and support whenever it was needed.

Sonja is survived by her
daughters, Jackie (Ron) Leikam of Hays, Kansas Bridget (Don) Cersovsky of
Amarillo, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by
her parents; husband, Jerry; and sister, Shirley Branch. 

Funeral service will be held
on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in
Plainville. Burial will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery, Stockton, Kansas.
Visitation will be on Thursday, January 23, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the
Funeral Home. 

Memorials are suggested to Plainville
Memorial Library and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd,
Plainville, Kansas 67663. 

Online condolences may be left
for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737652997354.jpeg" alt="Sonja M. Ruder" />
 <figcaption>Sonja M. Ruder</figcaption>
 </figure>Sonja M. Ruder, formerly of
Plainville, Kansas, passed away on January 20, 2025, at the Via Christi Village
in Hays, at the age of 84. She was born in a car on January 6, 1941, to Donald
and Marion Florene (Hindman) Grieve in Stockton, Kansas. Though her parents
initially believed she had passed away, she was placed in a shoe box, proving
from the very beginning to be a true survivor. She was married on December
28, 1960, to Gerald “Jerry” Ruder in Plainville. He preceded her in death on
September 11, 2020. &nbsp;Sonja grew up in Stockton and
graduated from Stockton High School in 1958. She moved to Plainville in the
late 50s and lived there until June of 2020. Sonja moved to Brookdale Assisted
Living in Hays, and then in June of 2023, she transferred to Via Christi
Village. A self-educated woman, Sonja attended college classes around
Plainville and built a diverse career. She worked as a telephone operator, an
insurance agent, a tax preparer, all the while learning about investing. Her
first job in banking was with Rooks County Savings and Loan. She continued in
banking with First Federal Lincoln Bank, eventually becoming manager. &nbsp;She was a valued member of the community,
including her involvement with the Lions Club, the Plainville Chamber of
Commerce, and the Rooks County Health Center Auxiliary. Sonja also served on
the Plainville Memorial Library board for many years, and was a member of a
book club there. Sonja was a creative writer
with a passion for reading, especially non-fiction. She was an avid learner and
enjoyed the quiet moments of reflection in her favorite books. She was also a
talented seamstress, learning the craft from her grandmother, and her creations
were always admired. Her grandmother instilled in her the passion to make the
perfect pie; her family enjoyed the practicing results. Known for her quirky sense of
humor, Sonja loved the Grinch, eagles, and orange cats. She found joy in riding
her bike with her neighbors, often spending hours exploring the world around
her. Above all, Sonja was a great conversationalist, always available for her
family and friends, offering kind words and support whenever it was needed.Sonja is survived by her
daughters, Jackie (Ron) Leikam of Hays, Kansas Bridget (Don) Cersovsky of
Amarillo, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.She is preceded in death by
her parents; husband, Jerry; and sister, Shirley Branch. Funeral service will be held
on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in
Plainville. Burial will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery, Stockton, Kansas.
Visitation will be on Thursday, January 23, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the
Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to Plainville
Memorial Library and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd,
Plainville, Kansas 67663. Online condolences may be left
for the family at <a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Sonja M. Ruder

TMP-M Tickets may be purchased on <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/tickets">TMP-Marian's GoFan page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738085805931.png" alt="TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School, Hays" />
 <figcaption>TMP-Marian Jr./Sr. High School, Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>TMP-M Tickets may be purchased on <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/tickets">TMP-Marian's GoFan page</a>.

TMP-Marian Pop Singers to present dessert show Feb. 1, 2

Fort Hays State (12-4, 5-2 MIAA) at Rogers State (14-6, 5-3 MIAA) Thursday, January 23 • 7:30 p.m. Claremore, Okla. • Claremore Expo Center

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Fort Hays State starts its key four-game road swing at Rogers State University on Thursday night in Claremore, Okla. This is the first of four-straight road games in MIAA play over a two-week span for FHSU. The Tigers enter at 12-4 overall, 5-2 in the MIAA, while the Hillcats are 14-6 overall and 5-3 in the MIAA.

Fort Hays State enters Thursday on a three-game win streak. The Tigers won all three of their games at home over the past couple of weeks, moving up to a second-place tie with Northeastern State in the MIAA standings. Washburn, the No. 1 ranked team in the nation, continues to lead the MIAA with an undefeated overall and conference record. The Tigers are coming off a 72-65 win over Northwest Missouri State this past Saturday, gaining their first regular season sweep of the Bearcats since 2012-13.

Rogers State won its most recent contest, a two-point win over Missouri Southern in Joplin this past Saturday. The Hillcats went up by two with about a minute and a half remaining and neither team scored the rest of the way. The last three wins overall for RSU since January 8 have been by three points or less. The Hillcats are 5-1 at home this season with the only loss occurring back on December 7 to Pittsburg State.

Rogers State holds a slight 5-4 advantage in the all-time series with FHSU, which started in 2019-20 when RSU joined the MIAA. The FHSU men are still in search of their first win in Claremore, where they are 0-4 so far. This will be the only regular season meeting with Rogers State in 2024-25. The teams met only once in the regular season last year, which was also in Claremore. The Hillcats won that contest 76-63.

Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;is coming off MIAA Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week honors for the second time this season. Last week he averaged 17.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per game in FHSU's pair of wins at home. He continues to lead the Tigers at 15.2 points and 4.7 assists per game. He went over 1,800 points in his career in the win over Northwest Missouri State this past Saturday.

Shaun Riley&nbsp;is leading the Tigers in rebounding at 6.9 per game. He adds 10.5 points per game. Riley is coming off his second double-double of the season with a 15-point, 11-rebound effort against Northwest Missouri State. The 11 rebounds were a season high for Riley. Kyle Grill&nbsp;has scored in double figures three-straight games and continues to rank second on the team in scoring at 11.9 points per game. Traejon Davis&nbsp;is coming off a season-high 18 points in the win over Northwest Missouri State.

Fort Hays State continues to lead NCAA Division II in scoring defense, allowing 58.4 points per game. The Tigers lead the category by 1.4 points per game over Miles (Ala.), which allows 59.8 per game and is the only other school allowing less than 60 per game on average. The Tigers rank fifth nationally in field goal percentage defense, allowing an average of 38 percent. The Tigers rank fourth nationally in fewest turnovers per game, averaging 9.3 per contest, which is just 0.5 shy of the national lead of 8.8 held by West Alabama.

Rogers State has three players averaging double figures in scoring, led by Kofi Hamilton at 15.6 points per game. Anthony Marshall, Jr. averages 13.8 per game and Caden Fry adds 11.4 per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737643395292.png" alt="Screenshot 2025-01-23 083929.png" />
 <figcaption>Screenshot 2025-01-23 083929.png</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State (12-4, 5-2 MIAA) at Rogers State (14-6, 5-3 MIAA) Thursday, January 23 • 7:30 p.m. Claremore, Okla. • Claremore Expo CenterRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>Fort Hays State starts its key four-game road swing at Rogers State University on Thursday night in Claremore, Okla. This is the first of four-straight road games in MIAA play over a two-week span for FHSU. The Tigers enter at 12-4 overall, 5-2 in the MIAA, while the Hillcats are 14-6 overall and 5-3 in the MIAA.Fort Hays State enters Thursday on a three-game win streak. The Tigers won all three of their games at home over the past couple of weeks, moving up to a second-place tie with Northeastern State in the MIAA standings. Washburn, the No. 1 ranked team in the nation, continues to lead the MIAA with an undefeated overall and conference record. The Tigers are coming off a 72-65 win over Northwest Missouri State this past Saturday, gaining their first regular season sweep of the Bearcats since 2012-13.Rogers State won its most recent contest, a two-point win over Missouri Southern in Joplin this past Saturday. The Hillcats went up by two with about a minute and a half remaining and neither team scored the rest of the way. The last three wins overall for RSU since January 8 have been by three points or less. The Hillcats are 5-1 at home this season with the only loss occurring back on December 7 to Pittsburg State.Rogers State holds a slight 5-4 advantage in the all-time series with FHSU, which started in 2019-20 when RSU joined the MIAA. The FHSU men are still in search of their first win in Claremore, where they are 0-4 so far. This will be the only regular season meeting with Rogers State in 2024-25. The teams met only once in the regular season last year, which was also in Claremore. The Hillcats won that contest 76-63.Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;is coming off MIAA Men's Basketball Athlete of the Week honors for the second time this season. Last week he averaged 17.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.5 steals per game in FHSU's pair of wins at home. He continues to lead the Tigers at 15.2 points and 4.7 assists per game. He went over 1,800 points in his career in the win over Northwest Missouri State this past Saturday.Shaun Riley&nbsp;is leading the Tigers in rebounding at 6.9 per game. He adds 10.5 points per game. Riley is coming off his second double-double of the season with a 15-point, 11-rebound effort against Northwest Missouri State. The 11 rebounds were a season high for Riley. Kyle Grill&nbsp;has scored in double figures three-straight games and continues to rank second on the team in scoring at 11.9 points per game. Traejon Davis&nbsp;is coming off a season-high 18 points in the win over Northwest Missouri State.Fort Hays State continues to lead NCAA Division II in scoring defense, allowing 58.4 points per game. The Tigers lead the category by 1.4 points per game over Miles (Ala.), which allows 59.8 per game and is the only other school allowing less than 60 per game on average. The Tigers rank fifth nationally in field goal percentage defense, allowing an average of 38 percent. The Tigers rank fourth nationally in fewest turnovers per game, averaging 9.3 per contest, which is just 0.5 shy of the national lead of 8.8 held by West Alabama.Rogers State has three players averaging double figures in scoring, led by Kofi Hamilton at 15.6 points per game. Anthony Marshall, Jr. averages 13.8 per game and Caden Fry adds 11.4 per game.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀🎧 LISTEN: Tigers begin key road swing at Rogers State Thursday

Lillian Nowak – age 94, former Gorham, Kansas resident
passed away graciously on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Dignity Care Center
in Salina, Kansas. 

She was born on September 19, 1930, on the family farm north of Walker, Kansas
to Anton P. and Rosa (Nemecheck) Sander. Lillian was the 7th of 11 children.
Lillian and her brothers and sisters were first born American citizens of the
Anton Sander family.&nbsp; As a young girl, she learned the importance of
family, faith, and hard work. From their farmyard, they watched the WWII
bombers training at the Walker Airfield during the war years.

She married Louis “Vernon” Nowak on April 9, 1951, at Walker. Together, they
made their home on the Nowak family farm north of Gorham, KS. Here they raised
7 children, the 3rd generation of Nowak’s on the family homestead.

Through the years, she&nbsp;made many sacrifices as a mother and housewife to
raise their growing family. The challenges from both Western Kansas storms and
health taught her to rely on faith and extended family to help her through. God
always provided a way.

Her pride,
joy and greatest success was being a mother. She excelled at managing the
kitchen for large family dinners, baking the tallest Angel Food Cakes with
sticky frosting, and somehow made everything taste like home with her German
dishes.&nbsp; Lillian’s garden brought her hours of peace in picking countless
gallons of schwartzbieren used for pies and kuchen. She loved planting flowers
in the rich soil God provided on the farm.&nbsp;Her days were filled from
sun-up to sun-down balancing the management of farm and family.

When she became a Grandmother, she welcomed the 4th&nbsp;generation
of Nowak to learn life lessons on the farm. She crafted quilts, taught
embroidery, and fried dozens of donut holes from her tiny kitchen. Somehow,
Vernon always had the timing perfect to taste test the first few out of the
sack of powdered sugar.

She and Vernon valued time spent with family playing cards and ball games,
picnics with hand-cranked ice cream, long walks up the driveway, and enjoyed
leading the wedding march at the polka
dances. The best ending to a long day was usually a bowl of popcorn, sometimes
made extra special when Vernon would make his famous Cracker Jack.

Lillian remained on the farm with Vernon until his death on June 24, 2010.
After a few years and strong encouragement from her children, she moved to
Salina to be closer to family. It was a difficult decision for her to leave
home and she missed the farm dearly.&nbsp; She was blessed to find new
friendships and quality of life at Arbor Court and Dignity Care Home in her
last 14 years. She left a loving impression with all her caregivers.

She was a member of Saint Mary Help of Christian Catholic Church, and a
lifelong member of the Gorham Daughters of Isabella #287, St Charles Circle,
and very active in her church life.

She is survived by her children, Thomas Nowak and wife Mary, Salina, KS;
Kayleen Schmitt and husband, Leonard, Salina, KS; Vernetta Hammersmith and
Scott Stroda, White City, KS; John Nowak, Salina, KS; Marilyn Labinski, Olathe,
KS; her brother, Lawrence Sander, Salina, KS; her sisters, Sister Helen Sander
CSA, Fond du Lac WI; and Rosie Nash, Dallas TX; her 13 grandchildren, Chrissy
Nowak; Kelle Nowak; Melissa Phillips (Danny); Stephanie Ochs (Jeff); Jessica
Bender (David); Angela Dixon (Colby); Carolyn Schmitt; Robert Hammersmith II
(Gina); Dianna Dibben (Brandon); Michael Hammersmith (Amanda); Kendra Nowak;
John Nowak Jr.; Jennifer Nowak; her eighteen great grandchildren; her one great
great grandson; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 59 years, Vernon; a
daughter, Barbara Nowak; son and daughter-in-law, David and Pam Nowak; a
son-in-law, Robert Hammersmith; two great granddaughters, Abigail Phillips, and
Torah Hull; two brothers, Daniel Sander and Louis Sander; five sisters, Mary
Schuster Dinges, Sophia Zerr, Evelyn Sander, Sister
Viola Sander CSA, and Vera Hoffman.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday, January 27, 2025,
at Saint Mary Help of Christian Catholic Church at Gorham with Celebrant,
Father Michael Elan.&nbsp; Burial will be in Saint Mary Cemetery Gorham.

A Daughters of Isabella rosary will be at 6:30 P.M. Sunday, followed by a vigil
service at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary
of Hays, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Monday, at Saint Mary Help of Christian
Catholic Church Gorham.

The family suggest Memorials made payable to: Dignity Care Home, Salina,
(Flower &amp; Garden Fund) or&nbsp;Saint Mary Cemetery, or Masses in care of
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays 1919 East
22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Condolences can be
emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or
left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/__;!!CUeWlBvF!YsyLE6WmfEv1kXSEIPQB3BLniy5HC-RG_VqIlqv73rW4fSdEPmjBpb0bwNYxY2xND7uaJcQqkDcl_ZkTcV1luvI$" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737476750083.jpeg" alt="Lillian Nowak" />
 <figcaption>Lillian Nowak</figcaption>
 </figure>Lillian Nowak – age 94, former Gorham, Kansas resident
passed away graciously on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Dignity Care Center
in Salina, Kansas. She was born on September 19, 1930, on the family farm north of Walker, Kansas
to Anton P. and Rosa (Nemecheck) Sander. Lillian was the 7th of 11 children.
Lillian and her brothers and sisters were first born American citizens of the
Anton Sander family.&nbsp; As a young girl, she learned the importance of
family, faith, and hard work. From their farmyard, they watched the WWII
bombers training at the Walker Airfield during the war years.She married Louis “Vernon” Nowak on April 9, 1951, at Walker. Together, they
made their home on the Nowak family farm north of Gorham, KS. Here they raised
7 children, the 3rd generation of Nowak’s on the family homestead.Through the years, she&nbsp;made many sacrifices as a mother and housewife to
raise their growing family. The challenges from both Western Kansas storms and
health taught her to rely on faith and extended family to help her through. God
always provided a way.Her pride,
joy and greatest success was being a mother. She excelled at managing the
kitchen for large family dinners, baking the tallest Angel Food Cakes with
sticky frosting, and somehow made everything taste like home with her German
dishes.&nbsp; Lillian’s garden brought her hours of peace in picking countless
gallons of schwartzbieren used for pies and kuchen. She loved planting flowers
in the rich soil God provided on the farm.&nbsp;Her days were filled from
sun-up to sun-down balancing the management of farm and family.When she became a Grandmother, she welcomed the 4th&nbsp;generation
of Nowak to learn life lessons on the farm. She crafted quilts, taught
embroidery, and fried dozens of donut holes from her tiny kitchen. Somehow,
Vernon always had the timing perfect to taste test the first few out of the
sack of powdered sugar.She and Vernon valued time spent with family playing cards and ball games,
picnics with hand-cranked ice cream, long walks up the driveway, and enjoyed
leading the wedding march at the polka
dances. The best ending to a long day was usually a bowl of popcorn, sometimes
made extra special when Vernon would make his famous Cracker Jack.Lillian remained on the farm with Vernon until his death on June 24, 2010.
After a few years and strong encouragement from her children, she moved to
Salina to be closer to family. It was a difficult decision for her to leave
home and she missed the farm dearly.&nbsp; She was blessed to find new
friendships and quality of life at Arbor Court and Dignity Care Home in her
last 14 years. She left a loving impression with all her caregivers.She was a member of Saint Mary Help of Christian Catholic Church, and a
lifelong member of the Gorham Daughters of Isabella #287, St Charles Circle,
and very active in her church life.She is survived by her children, Thomas Nowak and wife Mary, Salina, KS;
Kayleen Schmitt and husband, Leonard, Salina, KS; Vernetta Hammersmith and
Scott Stroda, White City, KS; John Nowak, Salina, KS; Marilyn Labinski, Olathe,
KS; her brother, Lawrence Sander, Salina, KS; her sisters, Sister Helen Sander
CSA, Fond du Lac WI; and Rosie Nash, Dallas TX; her 13 grandchildren, Chrissy
Nowak; Kelle Nowak; Melissa Phillips (Danny); Stephanie Ochs (Jeff); Jessica
Bender (David); Angela Dixon (Colby); Carolyn Schmitt; Robert Hammersmith II
(Gina); Dianna Dibben (Brandon); Michael Hammersmith (Amanda); Kendra Nowak;
John Nowak Jr.; Jennifer Nowak; her eighteen great grandchildren; her one great
great grandson; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 59 years, Vernon; a
daughter, Barbara Nowak; son and daughter-in-law, David and Pam Nowak; a
son-in-law, Robert Hammersmith; two great granddaughters, Abigail Phillips, and
Torah Hull; two brothers, Daniel Sander and Louis Sander; five sisters, Mary
Schuster Dinges, Sophia Zerr, Evelyn Sander, Sister
Viola Sander CSA, and Vera Hoffman.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Monday, January 27, 2025,
at Saint Mary Help of Christian Catholic Church at Gorham with Celebrant,
Father Michael Elan.&nbsp; Burial will be in Saint Mary Cemetery Gorham.A Daughters of Isabella rosary will be at 6:30 P.M. Sunday, followed by a vigil
service at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary
of Hays, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Monday, at Saint Mary Help of Christian
Catholic Church Gorham.The family suggest Memorials made payable to: Dignity Care Home, Salina,
(Flower &amp; Garden Fund) or&nbsp;Saint Mary Cemetery, or Masses in care of
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays 1919 East
22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences can be
emailed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com" target="_blank">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or
left by guestbook at&nbsp;<a href="https://urldefense.com/v3/__http:/www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/__;!!CUeWlBvF!YsyLE6WmfEv1kXSEIPQB3BLniy5HC-RG_VqIlqv73rW4fSdEPmjBpb0bwNYxY2xND7uaJcQqkDcl_ZkTcV1luvI$" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Lillian Nowak

#11 Fort Hays State (14-2, 5-2 MIAA) at &nbsp;Rogers State (7-10, 1-7 MIAA) Thursday, January 23, 2025 • 5:30 p.m. Claremore, Okla. • Claremore Expo Center

The 11th-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team opens a four-game road swing Thursday when the Tigers take on Rogers State. First tip is set for 5:30 p.m. from the Claremore Expo Center in Claremore, Okla.

The Tigers enter the contest 14-2 overall and 5-2 in league action after defeating Northwest Missouri State by 24 points on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Hillcats carry a record of 7-10 on the year and 1-7 in MIAA contests after losing each of their last four games.

The Tigers rank second nationally in assists (19.5 per game) and assist/turnover ratio (1.40). Brooke Loewe is third in Division II with an average of 7.3 assists per game, an average that would shatter the program record of 6.0 assists per game (Jaden Hobbs, 2020-21).

Fort Hays State is one of two schools in the MIAA with a trio of players that rank in the top 15 in scoring in the league. Olivia Hollenbeck is fourth in the conference with 16.8 points per night, while Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;ranks seventh with 15.7 points per evening and Talexa Weeter&nbsp;sits in 15th with an average of 13.4 points per contest.

After defeating the Bearcats on Saturday, Fort Hays State is now 8-1 when coming off a loss under head coach Talia Kahrs. All but one of FHSU's wins have been double-figure victories, including nine by 20 or more points, while both of the Tigers' losses have been by just one point.

DeGarmo is closing in on a pair of milestones. The graduate student needs 29 rebounds to tie Kate Lehman for the school record in rebounds (1,109 career boards). She is also just 17 points away from becoming the second player in school history to score 2,000 career points.

The Tigers last played on January 23 in 2021 when they defeated Pittsburg State on the road 85-73. That game was the last time FHSU hit better than 60 percent from the floor, with the Tigers knocking down 36-of-58 from the floor (62.1 percent). FHSU is 9-4 on this date in recorded history.

The Tigers are 8-0 all-time against the Hillcats, including a 4-0 lead in games played inside the Claremore Expo Center. Fort Hays State is 1-0 against the Hillcats under head coach Talia Kahrs, including a 1-0 mark on the road.

Rogers State enters the week 7-10 overall and 1-7 in league action. The Hillcats are 6-3 at home this season, including a 1-2 record in home conference games. RSU ranks third in the conference in scoring defense, allowing just 60.1 points per night. They rank 13th in the league in free throw shooting, knocking down just 64.9 percent from the line. Ella Hafer paces the team with 13.6 points per contest. Jaina Wiggins ranks third in the conference with 1.76 blocks per night, while Alyza Aikins is third in steals with an average of 2.06 per contest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737643597793.png" alt="Screenshot 2025-01-23 084611.png" />
 <figcaption>Screenshot 2025-01-23 084611.png</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Athletics#11 Fort Hays State (14-2, 5-2 MIAA) at &nbsp;Rogers State (7-10, 1-7 MIAA) Thursday, January 23, 2025 • 5:30 p.m. Claremore, Okla. • Claremore Expo CenterRadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;MIAA Network:&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>The 11th-ranked Fort Hays State women's basketball team opens a four-game road swing Thursday when the Tigers take on Rogers State. First tip is set for 5:30 p.m. from the Claremore Expo Center in Claremore, Okla.The Tigers enter the contest 14-2 overall and 5-2 in league action after defeating Northwest Missouri State by 24 points on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Hillcats carry a record of 7-10 on the year and 1-7 in MIAA contests after losing each of their last four games.The Tigers rank second nationally in assists (19.5 per game) and assist/turnover ratio (1.40). Brooke Loewe is third in Division II with an average of 7.3 assists per game, an average that would shatter the program record of 6.0 assists per game (Jaden Hobbs, 2020-21).Fort Hays State is one of two schools in the MIAA with a trio of players that rank in the top 15 in scoring in the league. Olivia Hollenbeck is fourth in the conference with 16.8 points per night, while Katie DeGarmo&nbsp;ranks seventh with 15.7 points per evening and Talexa Weeter&nbsp;sits in 15th with an average of 13.4 points per contest.After defeating the Bearcats on Saturday, Fort Hays State is now 8-1 when coming off a loss under head coach Talia Kahrs. All but one of FHSU's wins have been double-figure victories, including nine by 20 or more points, while both of the Tigers' losses have been by just one point.DeGarmo is closing in on a pair of milestones. The graduate student needs 29 rebounds to tie Kate Lehman for the school record in rebounds (1,109 career boards). She is also just 17 points away from becoming the second player in school history to score 2,000 career points.The Tigers last played on January 23 in 2021 when they defeated Pittsburg State on the road 85-73. That game was the last time FHSU hit better than 60 percent from the floor, with the Tigers knocking down 36-of-58 from the floor (62.1 percent). FHSU is 9-4 on this date in recorded history.The Tigers are 8-0 all-time against the Hillcats, including a 4-0 lead in games played inside the Claremore Expo Center. Fort Hays State is 1-0 against the Hillcats under head coach Talia Kahrs, including a 1-0 mark on the road.Rogers State enters the week 7-10 overall and 1-7 in league action. The Hillcats are 6-3 at home this season, including a 1-2 record in home conference games. RSU ranks third in the conference in scoring defense, allowing just 60.1 points per night. They rank 13th in the league in free throw shooting, knocking down just 64.9 percent from the line. Ella Hafer paces the team with 13.6 points per contest. Jaina Wiggins ranks third in the conference with 1.76 blocks per night, while Alyza Aikins is third in steals with an average of 2.06 per contest.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀🎧 LISTEN: #11 FHSU women open road trip at Rogers State Thursday

Thursday, January 23 KFIX: Hays High MBKB vs. Concordia, 2:40pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB at Rogers State, 5:05pm KAYS: TMP-Marian WMBKB vs. Norton/Phillipsburg, approx. 4:10pm KFIX: Hays High WBKB vs. Goodland, approx. 6:10pm&nbsp;

Friday, January 24
 KFIX: Hays High WBKB
(if win 1/23) vs. Concordia/Wellington, 2:40pm KFIX: Hays High WBKB (if lose 1/23) vs. Concordia/Wellington, approx. 6:10pm KFIX: Hays High MBKB vs. Colby/Beloit, approx. 7:55pm

Saturday, January 25
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WBKB (if lose 1/23) vs. Russell/Ellis, approx. 11:10am KHAZ: TMP-Marian MBKB (if lose 1/23) vs, Oakley/Ellis, 12:40pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB at Central Oklahoma, 1:05pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian WBKB (if win 1/23) vs. Russell/Ellis, approx. 2:10pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian MBKB (if win 1/23) vs. Oakley/Ellis, 3:40pm KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs. Houston, 4:00pm
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB at Colby Orange and Black Classic, TBD Sunday, January 26
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs vs. Buffalo (national broadcast), 5:30pm

Thursday, January 23 KFIX: Hays High MBKB vs. Concordia, 2:40pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB at Rogers State, 5:05pm KAYS: TMP-Marian WMBKB vs. Norton/Phillipsburg, approx. 4:10pm KFIX: Hays High WBKB vs. Goodland, approx. 6:10pm&nbsp;Friday, January 24
 KFIX: Hays High WBKB
(if win 1/23) vs. Concordia/Wellington, 2:40pm KFIX: Hays High WBKB (if lose 1/23) vs. Concordia/Wellington, approx. 6:10pm KFIX: Hays High MBKB vs. Colby/Beloit, approx. 7:55pmSaturday, January 25
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian WBKB (if lose 1/23) vs. Russell/Ellis, approx. 11:10am KHAZ: TMP-Marian MBKB (if lose 1/23) vs, Oakley/Ellis, 12:40pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WMBKB at Central Oklahoma, 1:05pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian WBKB (if win 1/23) vs. Russell/Ellis, approx. 2:10pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian MBKB (if win 1/23) vs. Oakley/Ellis, 3:40pm KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs. Houston, 4:00pm
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB at Colby Orange and Black Classic, TBD Sunday, January 26
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs vs. Buffalo (national broadcast), 5:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty announced the appointment of James Bell as the new Hays public relations manager, a role designed to enhance the city’s communication and outreach initiatives.&nbsp;

“Creating this position is part of the city of Hays’ effort to foster comprehensive and effective communication,” Dougherty said. “James will bring valuable expertise to ensure the community is well-informed about city initiatives, activities and services.”

Bell joins the city of Hays with a background that spans both the private and nonprofit sectors, where he has managed marketing campaigns, developed public relations strategies and overseen media outreach.&nbsp;

Upon accepting the position, Bell expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to work closely with local leaders and residents.&nbsp;

“I am excited to work with the city of Hays to create stronger communication channels and improve overall understanding of city activities,” Bell said. “My goal is to help residents stay informed and involved in the decisions that shape our community. When citizens feel connected to their local government, it fosters trust and leads to more productive conversations about how best to serve everyone in Hays.”

Bell will be responsible for developing and managing the city’s communication strategies in his new role. This includes overseeing social media platforms, updating the city website with the latest information and coordinating traditional media outreach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737580792512.jpeg" alt="James Bell" />
 <figcaption>James Bell</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysHays City Manager Toby Dougherty announced the appointment of James Bell as the new Hays public relations manager, a role designed to enhance the city’s communication and outreach initiatives.&nbsp;He will assume the position on Feb. 3.“Creating this position is part of the city of Hays’ effort to foster comprehensive and effective communication,” Dougherty said. “James will bring valuable expertise to ensure the community is well-informed about city initiatives, activities and services.”Bell joins the city of Hays with a background that spans both the private and nonprofit sectors, where he has managed marketing campaigns, developed public relations strategies and overseen media outreach.&nbsp;Upon accepting the position, Bell expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to work closely with local leaders and residents.&nbsp;“I am excited to work with the city of Hays to create stronger communication channels and improve overall understanding of city activities,” Bell said. “My goal is to help residents stay informed and involved in the decisions that shape our community. When citizens feel connected to their local government, it fosters trust and leads to more productive conversations about how best to serve everyone in Hays.”Bell will be responsible for developing and managing the city’s communication strategies in his new role. This includes overseeing social media platforms, updating the city website with the latest information and coordinating traditional media outreach.

City of Hays appoints new public relations manager

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Three items that would move forward the Tallgrass 4th Addition housing in east Hays being built by Grow Hays/Heart of America will be voted on at Thursday's Hays City Commission meeting.

Commissioners will vote on a rezoning request, final plat for the 101 lots, and an engineering services agreement for the land near 22nd and Wheatland.&nbsp;

Also on the agenda are a bid award and construction engineering services agreement for reconstruction of 32nd/33rd Streets later this year.

Commissioners are expected to approve a request for annexation into the city by BEREXCO for a portion of their property at 800A Commerce Parkway.&nbsp;

As part of the North Vine Corridor improvements, the city of Hays ended up with a small remnant tract of property. The tract has no value to the city, and city staff is requesting that the commission authorize its transfer to Russ Pfannenstiel, the adjacent property owner of CERVS.&nbsp;

The following proposed appointments will be presented for approval: • Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee, Jeremy Gill – three-year term to expire on Feb. 13, 2028 (third term) • Hays Housing Authority Board, Jo Ann Morse – four-year term to expire Feb. 13, 2029 (first term) • Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Juvenile Services Governing Board, Donnette Noble – two-year term to expire Feb. 1, 2027 (first term)&nbsp;

Commissioners will also hear monthly updates about community events in Hays and city department project progress reports.

The complete Jan. 23 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01232025-1524">here</a>.&nbsp;

The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737570543944.jpeg" alt="Hays city commissioners with City Manager Toby Dougherty (at left) during the Jan. 16 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays city commissioners with City Manager Toby Dougherty (at left) during the Jan. 16 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThree items that would move forward the Tallgrass 4th Addition housing in east Hays being built by Grow Hays/Heart of America will be voted on at Thursday's Hays City Commission meeting.Commissioners will vote on a rezoning request, final plat for the 101 lots, and an engineering services agreement for the land near 22nd and Wheatland.&nbsp;Also on the agenda are a bid award and construction engineering services agreement for reconstruction of 32nd/33rd Streets later this year.Commissioners are expected to approve a request for annexation into the city by BEREXCO for a portion of their property at 800A Commerce Parkway.&nbsp;As part of the North Vine Corridor improvements, the city of Hays ended up with a small remnant tract of property. The tract has no value to the city, and city staff is requesting that the commission authorize its transfer to Russ Pfannenstiel, the adjacent property owner of CERVS.&nbsp;The following proposed appointments will be presented for approval: • Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau Advisory Committee, Jeremy Gill – three-year term to expire on Feb. 13, 2028 (third term) • Hays Housing Authority Board, Jo Ann Morse – four-year term to expire Feb. 13, 2029 (first term) • Northwest Kansas Community Corrections and Juvenile Services Governing Board, Donnette Noble – two-year term to expire Feb. 1, 2027 (first term)&nbsp;Commissioners will also hear monthly updates about community events in Hays and city department project progress reports.The complete Jan. 23 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_01232025-1524">here</a>.&nbsp;The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall.

Hays city commissioners to vote on progress in Hays' biggest housing development 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two friends are partnering to open a hip new fabric and quilt shop in downtown Hays.

Jeanne Schwartz and Amanda Long will open Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, 1012 Main St, in February.

The business will sell fabric, quilting supplies, patterns and accessories for both standard sewing and quilting. Long has a long-arm quilting machine and will offer quilting services.

The shop will also offer classes, some of which they hope to gear to people just starting out in the hobby.

Schwartz previously worked at a quilt store and has a graphics design degree from Fort Hays State University. Long has operated a home-based craft business and quilting service.

This is their first foray into business at a brick-and-mortar location.

Long said&nbsp;Eclectic Threads will carry some fabric lines that other stores in the area do not. These lines offer brighter colors and more "hip" designs, she said.

"It's for quilting, but it would also make really great bags, purses and clothing," Long said of the fabric. "I think it will really get high-school and college-age into sewing."

Other big box retailers and discount stores are cutting back on their fabric offerings,&nbsp;Schwartz said.

"We have better quality fabrics, but we're still trying to ensure we have reasonable prices," she said.

Schwartz said their patterns will include offerings for beginners through experienced quilters. They will also offer patterns for items, such as shopping bags and purses.

Long says she loves quilting because she loves seeing a piece come together, beginning to end.

"I have an appreciation for all art forms," she said. "You start with pieces of paper just like you start with paint, and then it moves into and becomes this gorgeous blanket you can keep forever. It's functional art."

Even scarps can become something beautiful.&nbsp;

Long has an eagle quilt hanging in the studio's front window that is set to be donated and auctioned at the upcoming Pheasants Forever banquet.

She made that piece from scraps, except the backing. She said crafters are also using fabric scraps to make cards. They might use fabric scraps to make the petals of a flower and then sew the leaves in thread.

Long said she would love to collaborate with community youth groups such as 4-H, Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts.

She said sewing is an important skill.&nbsp;

"It's like learning to be a mechanic. No one can go wrong with it," she said.

"I've had people say, 'I could never quilt,'" Long said, "But can you sew a straight line? If you can sew a straight line, you can quilt because that is basically what it is."

Both owners said they were excited to be opening in downtown Hays.

"It's art central of Hays,"&nbsp;Schwartz said. "You have the art of tattooing, the Hays Arts Center. Regeena's is the art of flowers across the street. We have Simply Charmed, and then we have the art walk that is always right here in the middle of downtown Hays,"&nbsp;Schwartz said.

Hours will be 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays, and 10 to 3 p.m. Saturdays. They will be closed on Sundays and Mondays.

You can call the studio at 785- 639-9397.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569994653254">You can follow&nbsp;Eclectic Threads on Facebook.</a>&nbsp;The <a href="https://eclecticthreads.shop/">business's website</a> is under construction. However, you can sign up for their newsletter and be notified when the site goes live.

Eclectic Threads will sell T-shirts with their logo for $15 for their grand opening. Proceeds will be donated to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/feedinghays">Feeding Hays</a>. The store will also sponsor a spaghetti noodle drive in conjunction with its grand opening, which will be donated to Feeding Hays.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737063253517.jpeg" alt="Jeanne Schwartz and Amanda Long own Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, which will open in February in downtown Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jeanne Schwartz and Amanda Long own Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, which will open in February in downtown Hays. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo friends are partnering to open a hip new fabric and quilt shop in downtown Hays.Jeanne Schwartz and Amanda Long will open Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio, 1012 Main St, in February.The business will sell fabric, quilting supplies, patterns and accessories for both standard sewing and quilting. Long has a long-arm quilting machine and will offer quilting services.The shop will also offer classes, some of which they hope to gear to people just starting out in the hobby.Schwartz previously worked at a quilt store and has a graphics design degree from Fort Hays State University. Long has operated a home-based craft business and quilting service.This is their first foray into business at a brick-and-mortar location.Long said&nbsp;Eclectic Threads will carry some fabric lines that other stores in the area do not. These lines offer brighter colors and more "hip" designs, she said."It's for quilting, but it would also make really great bags, purses and clothing," Long said of the fabric. "I think it will really get high-school and college-age into sewing."Other big box retailers and discount stores are cutting back on their fabric offerings,&nbsp;Schwartz said."We have better quality fabrics, but we're still trying to ensure we have reasonable prices," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737063300266.jpeg" alt="A quilt created by Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio owner Amanda Long. The quilt will be auctioned at the upcoming Pheasants Forever banquet. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A quilt created by Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio owner Amanda Long. The quilt will be auctioned at the upcoming Pheasants Forever banquet. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Schwartz said their patterns will include offerings for beginners through experienced quilters. They will also offer patterns for items, such as shopping bags and purses.Long says she loves quilting because she loves seeing a piece come together, beginning to end.Schwartz said quilts are art."I have an appreciation for all art forms," she said. "You start with pieces of paper just like you start with paint, and then it moves into and becomes this gorgeous blanket you can keep forever. It's functional art."Even scarps can become something beautiful.&nbsp;Long has an eagle quilt hanging in the studio's front window that is set to be donated and auctioned at the upcoming Pheasants Forever banquet.She made that piece from scraps, except the backing. She said crafters are also using fabric scraps to make cards. They might use fabric scraps to make the petals of a flower and then sew the leaves in thread.Long said she would love to collaborate with community youth groups such as 4-H, Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts.She said sewing is an important skill.&nbsp;"It's like learning to be a mechanic. No one can go wrong with it," she said."I've had people say, 'I could never quilt,'" Long said, "But can you sew a straight line? If you can sew a straight line, you can quilt because that is basically what it is."Both owners said they were excited to be opening in downtown Hays."It's art central of Hays,"&nbsp;Schwartz said. "You have the art of tattooing, the Hays Arts Center. Regeena's is the art of flowers across the street. We have Simply Charmed, and then we have the art walk that is always right here in the middle of downtown Hays,"&nbsp;Schwartz said.Hours will be 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays, and 10 to 3 p.m. Saturdays. They will be closed on Sundays and Mondays.You can call the studio at 785- 639-9397.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569994653254">You can follow&nbsp;Eclectic Threads on Facebook.</a>&nbsp;The <a href="https://eclecticthreads.shop/">business's website</a> is under construction. However, you can sign up for their newsletter and be notified when the site goes live.Eclectic Threads will sell T-shirts with their logo for $15 for their grand opening. Proceeds will be donated to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/feedinghays">Feeding Hays</a>. The store will also sponsor a spaghetti noodle drive in conjunction with its grand opening, which will be donated to Feeding Hays.

Eclectic Threads Quilt Studio to offer hip fabric spot in Hays

Since the inception of the Wild West Festival, the Hays Kiwanis Club and the WWF Committee have enjoyed a successful community partnership, which benefited both organizations, as well as the community and festival patrons. &nbsp;

After 30 years of the Hays Kiwanis Club possessing and operating the beer garden at the Wild West Festival, known as the Kiwanis Saloon, the WWF Committee has decided to take over possession and operational duties of the beer garden.

Members of the Hays Kiwanis Club have enjoyed the opportunity to work alongside our community partner during this annual three-night event for the past 30 years and we sincerely appreciate the tremendous support we have received from the community and festival patrons each year. &nbsp;

With the generous support of these patrons, the Hays Kiwanis Club has been able to provide resources and support to community organizations and projects.

The Hays Kiwanis Club budgeted $51,100 to support programs for children, veterans, and active-duty military in our community for the 2024-2025 Kiwanis year.&nbsp; 

Most of the club’s budgeted funds are derived from the American Flag Project. However, funds generated from the&nbsp;Wild West Festival, beer garden have helped sustain the club’s budget, all of which our club invests back into our community.

We have already started to strategize on our next adventure and project as we intend to keep providing the same level of service and generosity to our community, thanks to your support. &nbsp;

We proudly will continue our American Flag Project, displaying 1,300+ American flags on five U.S. holidays each year throughout our community; and the Hays Kiwanis Club at 86 members strong, will continue having fun, while making a positive difference in our community and world.

The Hays Kiwanis Club wishes the&nbsp;Wild West Festival, Committee continued success as they move forward with the planning of their 2025 festival.&nbsp; We recognize a lot of work goes into planning a community event of this magnitude and wish them all the best.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737478225012.jpeg" alt="Kiwanis Saloon at the 2024 Wild West Festival. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kiwanis Saloon at the 2024 Wild West Festival. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays KiwanisSince the inception of the Wild West Festival, the Hays Kiwanis Club and the WWF Committee have enjoyed a successful community partnership, which benefited both organizations, as well as the community and festival patrons. &nbsp;After 30 years of the Hays Kiwanis Club possessing and operating the beer garden at the Wild West Festival, known as the Kiwanis Saloon, the WWF Committee has decided to take over possession and operational duties of the beer garden.Members of the Hays Kiwanis Club have enjoyed the opportunity to work alongside our community partner during this annual three-night event for the past 30 years and we sincerely appreciate the tremendous support we have received from the community and festival patrons each year. &nbsp;With the generous support of these patrons, the Hays Kiwanis Club has been able to provide resources and support to community organizations and projects.The Hays Kiwanis Club budgeted $51,100 to support programs for children, veterans, and active-duty military in our community for the 2024-2025 Kiwanis year.&nbsp; Most of the club’s budgeted funds are derived from the American Flag Project. However, funds generated from the&nbsp;Wild West Festival, beer garden have helped sustain the club’s budget, all of which our club invests back into our community.We have already started to strategize on our next adventure and project as we intend to keep providing the same level of service and generosity to our community, thanks to your support. &nbsp;We proudly will continue our American Flag Project, displaying 1,300+ American flags on five U.S. holidays each year throughout our community; and the Hays Kiwanis Club at 86 members strong, will continue having fun, while making a positive difference in our community and world.The Hays Kiwanis Club wishes the&nbsp;Wild West Festival, Committee continued success as they move forward with the planning of their 2025 festival.&nbsp; We recognize a lot of work goes into planning a community event of this magnitude and wish them all the best.

Changes coming to Hays' Wild West Festival beer garden

Closing on the sale of the former Ellis County Public Works Building was Wednesday.

On Tuesday, the Ellis County Commission approved a resolution allowing County Commission Chairman Michael Berges to sign the closing documents.

The county sold the building at 1195 280th to&nbsp;Midwestern Pipeworks for $605,000.

In December, the county celebrated the ribbon cutting of its new $6 million public works building, which is on the east side of the landfill on&nbsp;250th Avenue. The building also houses the&nbsp;Noxious Weed Department.

The Kansas Ready Mix Concrete Association honored Ellis County with a Municipal Concrete Award for its reconstruction work on Cathedral Avenue in Victoria.

The county was recognized at the association's annual awards ceremony on Jan. 9 in Olathe. Six other projects from across the state were also honored.

This was the second phase of the Cathedral Avenue reconstruction project, funded by local funds and the Kansas Department of Transportation Cost Share Grant Program.

In other business, the commission approved a noxious weed contract with the Kansas Department of Transportation, approved a reduced fee for Special Olympics to use the Unrein Building, and heard reports from the Cottonwood Extention District and DSNWK.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostClosing on the sale of the former Ellis County Public Works Building was Wednesday.On Tuesday, the Ellis County Commission approved a resolution allowing County Commission Chairman Michael Berges to sign the closing documents.The county sold the building at 1195 280th to&nbsp;Midwestern Pipeworks for $605,000.In December, the county celebrated the ribbon cutting of its new $6 million public works building, which is on the east side of the landfill on&nbsp;250th Avenue. The building also houses the&nbsp;Noxious Weed Department.<h2>Cathedral Avenue award</h2>The Kansas Ready Mix Concrete Association honored Ellis County with a Municipal Concrete Award for its reconstruction work on Cathedral Avenue in Victoria.The county was recognized at the association's annual awards ceremony on Jan. 9 in Olathe. Six other projects from across the state were also honored.This was the second phase of the Cathedral Avenue reconstruction project, funded by local funds and the Kansas Department of Transportation Cost Share Grant Program.<h2>Other business</h2>In other business, the commission approved a noxious weed contract with the Kansas Department of Transportation, approved a reduced fee for Special Olympics to use the Unrein Building, and heard reports from the Cottonwood Extention District and DSNWK.&nbsp;

Ellis County sells former public works building

We're joined by Fort Hays State men's basketball coach Mark Johnson, track and field coach Jason McCullough and men's wrestling coach Erik Wince.

We're joined by Fort Hays State men's basketball coach Mark Johnson, track and field coach Jason McCullough and men's wrestling coach Erik Wince.Tiger Talk airs at 12:15 p.m. on KAYS live from the Robbins Center on the Fort Hays State University campus.<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (January 22, 2025)" 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=bsmts-17c2924-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>