On Wednesday, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance on Vine Street at 17th&nbsp;Street in Hays between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 

The northbound and southbound lanes of Vine St. will remain open.

 Those traveling eastbound on 17th&nbsp;St., will only be able to turn right going southbound onto Vine St.

The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286 or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699897178724.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOn Wednesday, CC Steel will be performing sewer line maintenance on Vine Street at 17th&nbsp;Street in Hays between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The northbound and southbound lanes of Vine St. will remain open. Those traveling eastbound on 17th&nbsp;St., will only be able to turn right going southbound onto Vine St.The City of Hays regrets any inconvenience this may cause to the public. If there are any questions, please contact CC Steel at (218) 770-8286 or the Office of Project Management at (785) 628-7350.

Sewer line maintenance Wednesday on Vine Street at 17th in Hays 

HOXIE – The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys’ and girls’ basketball teams
split a pair of league games Tuesday night in Hoxie. The TMP boys got their
first win, while the TMP girls suffered their first league loss.

GIRLS: Hoxie 49, TMP 24 The Hoxie Indians broke an early tie, outscoring TMP 31-8
over a stretch from the first quarter into the third quarter. The Indians stayed
unbeaten in league play in a 49-24 win over the Monarchs Tuesday night in Hays.

The two teams traded the lead early, with TMP (2-3, 1-1 MCL)
&nbsp;leading 6-2 with just over six minutes
to play in the first quarter on a pair of Shaylee Gottschalk field goals and a
Brooke Koenigsman floater in the lane. 

Hoxie (4-1, 2-0 MCL) answered with a 6-0 run of their own,
and then, with the game tied at 8, Hoxie connected on a three-pointer for an
11-8 lead to close out the first quarter.

Hoxie opened the second quarter with an offensive rebound
and putback, sparking a 28-2 run to end the first half and begin the second
half. Hoxie led 28-11 with more than five and a half minutes left in the third quarter.

Hoxie led 35-13 after three quarters on their way to the
49-24 victory.

TMP’s Brooke Koenigsman and Hannah Rose each finished with a
team-high five points.

BOYS: TMP 50, Hoxie 41 The TMP (1-4, 1-1 MCL) boys earned a hard-fought 50-41
victory against the Hoxie Indians Tuesday night in Hoxie, their first victory.

The opening quarter saw six lead changes in the first six minutes
until Carson Liles scored back-to-back inside field goals in the final 12
seconds of the first quarter, putting TMP up 12-9.

Hoxie (2-3, 0-2 MCL) was already to retake the lead in the
second quarter, and TMP was held back to just two field goals.

Those two field goals, a Will Eck three-pointer and Liles's
first three-pointer of the year put TMP up 18-16. 

The Monarchs held Hoxie scoreless over the first half's
final two minutes and two seconds. 

TMP started to pull away in the third quarter. Ty Schmeidler
began to come to life, scoring seven of his team-high 10 points in the third
quarter.

Hoxie briefly closed within three points with just over two
and a half minutes left in the fourth quarter, but TMP outscored the Indians
8-2 down the stretch for a 50-41 TMP Victoria.

Schmeidler and Liles each collected 10 points to lead the
Monarchs. Liles pulled down five rebounds. Grant Nehls added nine points and
seven rebounds.

TMP will travel to take on Central Plains on Friday. 

HOXIE – The TMP-Marian Monarchs boys’ and girls’ basketball teams
split a pair of league games Tuesday night in Hoxie. The TMP boys got their
first win, while the TMP girls suffered their first league loss.GIRLS: Hoxie 49, TMP 24 The Hoxie Indians broke an early tie, outscoring TMP 31-8
over a stretch from the first quarter into the third quarter. The Indians stayed
unbeaten in league play in a 49-24 win over the Monarchs Tuesday night in Hays.The two teams traded the lead early, with TMP (2-3, 1-1 MCL)
&nbsp;leading 6-2 with just over six minutes
to play in the first quarter on a pair of Shaylee Gottschalk field goals and a
Brooke Koenigsman floater in the lane. Hoxie (4-1, 2-0 MCL) answered with a 6-0 run of their own,
and then, with the game tied at 8, Hoxie connected on a three-pointer for an
11-8 lead to close out the first quarter.Hoxie opened the second quarter with an offensive rebound
and putback, sparking a 28-2 run to end the first half and begin the second
half. Hoxie led 28-11 with more than five and a half minutes left in the third quarter.Hoxie led 35-13 after three quarters on their way to the
49-24 victory.TMP’s Brooke Koenigsman and Hannah Rose each finished with a
team-high five points.BOYS: TMP 50, Hoxie 41 The TMP (1-4, 1-1 MCL) boys earned a hard-fought 50-41
victory against the Hoxie Indians Tuesday night in Hoxie, their first victory.The opening quarter saw six lead changes in the first six minutes
until Carson Liles scored back-to-back inside field goals in the final 12
seconds of the first quarter, putting TMP up 12-9.Hoxie (2-3, 0-2 MCL) was already to retake the lead in the
second quarter, and TMP was held back to just two field goals.Those two field goals, a Will Eck three-pointer and Liles's
first three-pointer of the year put TMP up 18-16. The Monarchs held Hoxie scoreless over the first half's
final two minutes and two seconds. TMP started to pull away in the third quarter. Ty Schmeidler
began to come to life, scoring seven of his team-high 10 points in the third
quarter.Hoxie briefly closed within three points with just over two
and a half minutes left in the fourth quarter, but TMP outscored the Indians
8-2 down the stretch for a 50-41 TMP Victoria.Schmeidler and Liles each collected 10 points to lead the
Monarchs. Liles pulled down five rebounds. Grant Nehls added nine points and
seven rebounds.TMP will travel to take on Central Plains on Friday.

🏀Monarchs split MCL matchups in Hoxie

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A Hays male juvenile was arrested for his alleged role in three vehicle thefts, vehicle burglary and stolen firearms.

Deputy Hays Police Chief Brian Dawson said three Hays juveniles allegedly stole three vehicles on Nov. 7 from West 17th Street, West 15th Street and Hillcrest Street in Hays.

A&nbsp; 2008 Chevy Malibu was involved in a rollover accident, and a vehicle owner reported a shotgun was inside their car when the vehicle was stolen.

Officers deployed K-9 units and drones to search the area of the rollover scene in the 1100 block of Rome Road. Dawson said the occupants had fled the scene.

Dawson also said on Nov. 7, a vehicle burglary allegedly took place on East 19th Street, resulting in a stolen Beretta handgun.

On Nov. 8, a&nbsp;2012 Nissan Sentra was found undamaged on East 15th Street and returned to its owner.

On Nov. 14, a tip led officers to one of the juvenile suspects who was reportedly in possession of the stolen Beretta handgun and was defacing its serial number, according to Dawson

Altering or removing the serial number of a firearm is a federal offense.

Dawson said officers executed a search warrant at the juvenile's residence, where they allegedly discovered the stolen Beretta handgun with the serial number scratched off. They also found the stolen shotgun and drug paraphernalia.

During the search, another male juvenile gave a false identity and posed as a runaway. He was arrested after being identified as having a warrant for rape out of Pawnee County. His arrest was&nbsp;unrelated to the vehicle thefts, Dawson said.

The juvenile suspected of being involved in the vehicle thefts was arrested and remains in juvenile detention as of Wednesday. Two other Hays juveniles, a male and a female, were questioned and released to their guardians.

On Nov. 26, a&nbsp;2009 Saturn Aura vehicle was located in rural Rush County, which was found damaged and subsequently towed.

Dawson said the juvenile, who was arrested for the vehicle thefts, has a hearing scheduled for Friday to determine whether he will remain in detention.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716320706146.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Hays male juvenile was arrested for his alleged role in three vehicle thefts, vehicle burglary and stolen firearms.Deputy Hays Police Chief Brian Dawson said three Hays juveniles allegedly stole three vehicles on Nov. 7 from West 17th Street, West 15th Street and Hillcrest Street in Hays.A&nbsp; 2008 Chevy Malibu was involved in a rollover accident, and a vehicle owner reported a shotgun was inside their car when the vehicle was stolen.Officers deployed K-9 units and drones to search the area of the rollover scene in the 1100 block of Rome Road. Dawson said the occupants had fled the scene.Dawson also said on Nov. 7, a vehicle burglary allegedly took place on East 19th Street, resulting in a stolen Beretta handgun.On Nov. 8, a&nbsp;2012 Nissan Sentra was found undamaged on East 15th Street and returned to its owner.On Nov. 14, a tip led officers to one of the juvenile suspects who was reportedly in possession of the stolen Beretta handgun and was defacing its serial number, according to DawsonAltering or removing the serial number of a firearm is a federal offense.Dawson said officers executed a search warrant at the juvenile's residence, where they allegedly discovered the stolen Beretta handgun with the serial number scratched off. They also found the stolen shotgun and drug paraphernalia.During the search, another male juvenile gave a false identity and posed as a runaway. He was arrested after being identified as having a warrant for rape out of Pawnee County. His arrest was&nbsp;unrelated to the vehicle thefts, Dawson said.The juvenile suspected of being involved in the vehicle thefts was arrested and remains in juvenile detention as of Wednesday. Two other Hays juveniles, a male and a female, were questioned and released to their guardians.On Nov. 26, a&nbsp;2009 Saturn Aura vehicle was located in rural Rush County, which was found damaged and subsequently towed.Dawson said the juvenile, who was arrested for the vehicle thefts, has a hearing scheduled for Friday to determine whether he will remain in detention.

Hays juvenile arrested for 3 alleged vehicle thefts, stolen firearms

The Hays Police Department responded to 77 incidents Dec. 1-7, 2024, according to the HPD activity log.

Hays Police DepartmentThe Hays Police Department responded to 77 incidents Dec. 1-7, 2024, according to the HPD activity log.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734455713696.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734455733640.jpeg" alt=" " />
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Hays Police Department activity log, Dec. 1-7, 2024

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995961939.png" alt="File photo/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>File photo/Hays Post</figcaption>
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 </figure>

Hays Police Department arrest log, Dec..1-7, 2024

Danny Lee Heier, 54, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on
December 15, 2024, at Hays Medical Center after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on June 26, 1970, in WaKeeney, Danny was the beloved son of Felix Heier
and Catherine Louise (Pfeifer).

Danny’s life was defined by his simple yet profound
passions: family, cattle, and friends. Love, loyalty and laughter came
naturally to him as he poured his heart into everything he cherished. His roots
ran deep, and his loyalty to family was unshakable as he treated everyone he
met as if they were part of his own family. His knowledge and experience
stemmed from being a graduate of the Morland High Class of 88’ and Northwest
Tech class of 89’ helped him in the efforts to tend to his cattle alongside his
dad and brother. He worked tirelessly under the Kansas sun on the family farm
and enjoyed the excitement of being at the racetrack with his “Racing Family”
in recent years. Danny was always able to find joy in the everyday moments
shared with the ones he loved most to create lifelong memories for us all to
cherish. 

Danny is survived by his loving parents, Felix and Catherine
Heier of WaKeeney, KS; his brother, Dennis (Dina) Heier of Quinter, KS; and his
sisters, Charlotte Bowles (Mike Faubion) of Abilene, KS, Loretta (Tim) Kaiser
of Elizabeth, CO, and Cathy (Lance) Russell of Hays, KS. His nieces, nephews,
and extended family will forever remember him for his kindness, his laughter,
and his unwavering love.

A Vigil Service will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024,
from 5:00 to 5:45 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney. Visitation will
follow from 5:45 to 7:00 p.m.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m.
on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Christ the King Catholic Church, WaKeeney,
with burial to follow in Christ the King Cemetery. A meal will be served
afterward at the parish center, where family and friends can gather to
celebrate Danny’s life and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Walk-A-Thon for
Health (Trego) or for Masses at Christ the King Catholic Church. Donations can
be mailed to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734455544607.jpeg" alt="Danny Lee Heier" />
 <figcaption>Danny Lee Heier</figcaption>
 </figure>Danny Lee Heier, 54, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on
December 15, 2024, at Hays Medical Center after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on June 26, 1970, in WaKeeney, Danny was the beloved son of Felix Heier
and Catherine Louise (Pfeifer).Danny’s life was defined by his simple yet profound
passions: family, cattle, and friends. Love, loyalty and laughter came
naturally to him as he poured his heart into everything he cherished. His roots
ran deep, and his loyalty to family was unshakable as he treated everyone he
met as if they were part of his own family. His knowledge and experience
stemmed from being a graduate of the Morland High Class of 88’ and Northwest
Tech class of 89’ helped him in the efforts to tend to his cattle alongside his
dad and brother. He worked tirelessly under the Kansas sun on the family farm
and enjoyed the excitement of being at the racetrack with his “Racing Family”
in recent years. Danny was always able to find joy in the everyday moments
shared with the ones he loved most to create lifelong memories for us all to
cherish. Danny is survived by his loving parents, Felix and Catherine
Heier of WaKeeney, KS; his brother, Dennis (Dina) Heier of Quinter, KS; and his
sisters, Charlotte Bowles (Mike Faubion) of Abilene, KS, Loretta (Tim) Kaiser
of Elizabeth, CO, and Cathy (Lance) Russell of Hays, KS. His nieces, nephews,
and extended family will forever remember him for his kindness, his laughter,
and his unwavering love.A Vigil Service will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024,
from 5:00 to 5:45 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney. Visitation will
follow from 5:45 to 7:00 p.m.The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m.
on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at Christ the King Catholic Church, WaKeeney,
with burial to follow in Christ the King Cemetery. A meal will be served
afterward at the parish center, where family and friends can gather to
celebrate Danny’s life and share memories.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Walk-A-Thon for
Health (Trego) or for Masses at Christ the King Catholic Church. Donations can
be mailed to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Danny Lee Heier

Auditions for the Hays Community Theatre production of “Leaving Iowa” have been set for 7-9 p.m. on Dec. 18 and 19.

“Leaving Iowa is a comic and heartwarming tribute to the family vacation,” said Bill Gasper, who is taking on director responsibilities at HCT for the first time. “It is told through flashbacks as a son travels to Mount Union, Iowa, to bury his father’s ashes. During this journey, the son reflects on his life while revisiting the humor and disappointments of family road trips.”

The play features a cast ranging in size from as few as six people to as many as 28. All the characters are adults, so Gasper is looking for actors who are high school age and older.

“The casting is flexible as actors can assume one of the principal characters that appear throughout the play or take on one or more of the multi-character roles who appear during the production,” Gasper said. “Actors and audience members alike will enjoy the humorous ‘over-the-top’ scenes as well as the sentimental aspects of the play.”

Actors need only attend one evening of auditions, which will consist of each person reading a monologue specific to their gender. Several reads from the script will follow monologues. Selected reads will be dependent upon the number of people present at the audition. Audition monologues and reads can be found at <a href="https://www.hctks.com/auditions">https://www.hctks.com/auditions</a>. Interested actors should also download and fill out the audition form before their audition. All audition materials will also be available at the audition.

Rehearsals for “Leaving Iowa” will begin on Jan. 5 with performances set for Feb. 21-23 at Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. Eighth St.

Questions can be directed to Gasper at bgasper56@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734386068325.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAuditions for the Hays Community Theatre production of “Leaving Iowa” have been set for 7-9 p.m. on Dec. 18 and 19.“Leaving Iowa is a comic and heartwarming tribute to the family vacation,” said Bill Gasper, who is taking on director responsibilities at HCT for the first time. “It is told through flashbacks as a son travels to Mount Union, Iowa, to bury his father’s ashes. During this journey, the son reflects on his life while revisiting the humor and disappointments of family road trips.”The play features a cast ranging in size from as few as six people to as many as 28. All the characters are adults, so Gasper is looking for actors who are high school age and older.“The casting is flexible as actors can assume one of the principal characters that appear throughout the play or take on one or more of the multi-character roles who appear during the production,” Gasper said. “Actors and audience members alike will enjoy the humorous ‘over-the-top’ scenes as well as the sentimental aspects of the play.”Actors need only attend one evening of auditions, which will consist of each person reading a monologue specific to their gender. Several reads from the script will follow monologues. Selected reads will be dependent upon the number of people present at the audition. Audition monologues and reads can be found at <a href="https://www.hctks.com/auditions">https://www.hctks.com/auditions</a>. Interested actors should also download and fill out the audition form before their audition. All audition materials will also be available at the audition.Rehearsals for “Leaving Iowa” will begin on Jan. 5 with performances set for Feb. 21-23 at Hays Community Theatre, 121 E. Eighth St.Questions can be directed to Gasper at bgasper56@gmail.com.

UPDATE: Auditions for 'Leaving Iowa' set for this week

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State moved to 6-3 overall on the season with an 84-58 win over Bethel College on Monday evening (Dec. 16) at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers led by nine at halftime and then pulled away in the second half to win their 18th-straight game over the Threshers.

The Tigers received a challenge from the Threshers in the first 10 minutes of the game. Bethel led by one, 15-14, at the second media break of the opening half, but the Tigers went on an 18-5 run over a nearly six-minute span to take a 12-point lead. The lead reached 13 a pair of times before the margin came back to nine at halftime.

Bethel hit the opening shot of the second half, a 3-point field goal to get the lead back down to six. But, that was the closest the Threshers would get as the Tigers went on a 16-2 run immediately after to stretch the lead to 20. The lead would eventually stay over 20 points from the 6:26 mark to the end of the game. FHSU reached its largest lead of 27 points with 45 seconds remaining before Bethel hit a free throw to make the final margin 26.

Fort Hays State shot 51.9 percent overall as a team and 50 percent (12-of-24) beyond the 3-point line. FHSU was 18-of-23 at the free-throw line (78.3 percent). The Tigers held Bethel to 34.5 percent shooting overall.

Kaleb Hammeke led FHSU with 15 points, while Dan Mukuna had a near-perfect shooting evening with 12 points and a team-high seven rebounds. Mukuna was 3-of-4 from the field, including 2-of-2 beyond the 3-point line, and 4-of-4 at the free-throw line. Muhamed Kante dished out a team-high five assists. Kyle Grill (12) and Shaun Riley (11) also reached double figures in scoring, while Aidan McDowell had nine points all on 3-point field goals. Eli Lawson had a new season high with seven points.

Carmelo Yakubu led the Threshers with 16 points. He was the only Thresher in double figures for scoring. Nick Bonner pulled down six rebounds and dished out a team-high three assists.

The Tigers will have two games this weekend at home against NCAA Division II opponents. The Tigers host MSU Denver on Friday evening (Dec. 20) at 7 p.m. MSU Denver was ranked No. 22 in the latest NABC Top 25 Poll, but new rankings come out on Tuesday. The Roadrunners are 9-1 overall on the season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734444483849.png" alt="&nbsp; FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State moved to 6-3 overall on the season with an 84-58 win over Bethel College on Monday evening (Dec. 16) at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers led by nine at halftime and then pulled away in the second half to win their 18th-straight game over the Threshers.<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/1987424215&color=%23ff5500&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/fhsu-mbkb-johnson-post-v" title="FHSU MBKB Johnson Post v Bethel College Dec 16, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU MBKB Johnson Post v Bethel College Dec 16, 2024</a></div></div>The Tigers received a challenge from the Threshers in the first 10 minutes of the game. Bethel led by one, 15-14, at the second media break of the opening half, but the Tigers went on an 18-5 run over a nearly six-minute span to take a 12-point lead. The lead reached 13 a pair of times before the margin came back to nine at halftime.Bethel hit the opening shot of the second half, a 3-point field goal to get the lead back down to six. But, that was the closest the Threshers would get as the Tigers went on a 16-2 run immediately after to stretch the lead to 20. The lead would eventually stay over 20 points from the 6:26 mark to the end of the game. FHSU reached its largest lead of 27 points with 45 seconds remaining before Bethel hit a free throw to make the final margin 26.Fort Hays State shot 51.9 percent overall as a team and 50 percent (12-of-24) beyond the 3-point line. FHSU was 18-of-23 at the free-throw line (78.3 percent). The Tigers held Bethel to 34.5 percent shooting overall.<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/1987424215&color=%23ff5500&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/fhsu-mbkb-johnson-post-v" title="FHSU MBKB Johnson Post v Bethel College Dec 16, 2024" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">FHSU MBKB Johnson Post v Bethel College Dec 16, 2024</a></div></div>Kaleb Hammeke led FHSU with 15 points, while Dan Mukuna had a near-perfect shooting evening with 12 points and a team-high seven rebounds. Mukuna was 3-of-4 from the field, including 2-of-2 beyond the 3-point line, and 4-of-4 at the free-throw line. Muhamed Kante dished out a team-high five assists. Kyle Grill (12) and Shaun Riley (11) also reached double figures in scoring, while Aidan McDowell had nine points all on 3-point field goals. Eli Lawson had a new season high with seven points.Carmelo Yakubu led the Threshers with 16 points. He was the only Thresher in double figures for scoring. Nick Bonner pulled down six rebounds and dished out a team-high three assists.The Tigers will have two games this weekend at home against NCAA Division II opponents. The Tigers host MSU Denver on Friday evening (Dec. 20) at 7 p.m. MSU Denver was ranked No. 22 in the latest NABC Top 25 Poll, but new rankings come out on Tuesday. The Roadrunners are 9-1 overall on the season.

🏀Tigers Defeat Bethel 84-58

Tuesday, December 17
 KKQY: Ellis MWBKB at
Phillipsburg, 5:15
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Hoxie, 5:40pm

Wednesday, December 18
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pm

Thursday, December 19
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WBKB vs. Truman State, 7:35pm

Friday, December 20
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Manhattan, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Central Plains, 5:40pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. MSU Denver, 6:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB vs. Quincy, 9:35pm

Saturday, December 21
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs vs. Houston Texans, 11:00am

Sunday, December 22
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
Brown, 12:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. Regis, 1:30pm

Tuesday, December 17
 KKQY: Ellis MWBKB at
Phillipsburg, 5:15
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Hoxie, 5:40pmWednesday, December 18
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pmThursday, December 19
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WBKB vs. Truman State, 7:35pmFriday, December 20
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Manhattan, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Central Plains, 5:40pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. MSU Denver, 6:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB vs. Quincy, 9:35pmSaturday, December 21
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs vs. Houston Texans, 11:00amSunday, December 22
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
Brown, 12:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. Regis, 1:30pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

A Fort Hays State University student is introducing an interactive story stroll in Larned this spring, combining story time with health.

The story stroll will feature about 10 podiums managed by the Jordaan Memorial Library. These will provide a place for stories and encourage physical and mental health.

Ryssa Schlaefli is a junior at FHSU and previously had assistant professor Jessica Phelan as a teacher. She has also served as a mentor for Phelan's class through an internship.

"We started working on a grant, Phelan asked me if I would write a story for the story stroll," Schlaefli said.

Schlaefli said working on the Golden Belt Community Foundation grant and writing the first story for the project are not tied to extra credit or her internships.

Schlaefli's story follows a blue flower who feels sad and struggles with self-acceptance. With the help of supportive flowers in the flower bed, she learns to embrace and love herself despite her imperfections.

"Flowers look very different, but they're all beautiful. That's what the story is about," she said.

Each podium will display a page of the story along with self-reflection questions and instructions, guiding readers through the story stroll while encouraging them to explore their emotions.

"Health is more than just physical. It's mental as well. We need those conversations between parents and children,"&nbsp;Schlaefli said.

Jordaan Memorial Library, in collaboration with Schlaefli and Phelan, received a $3,000 grant from the Golden Belt Community Foundation.

Phelan said there are two possible locations for the story stroll, but there has been no official decision as the city of Larned has shown support.

The story stroll project is designed primarily for families and children in the Larned area. It aims to encourage families to be physically active together.

"A huge part of that is having a support system, resources, and purpose for doing the activity," Phelan said.

The podiums will feature stories that can be updated regularly and utilized for promotional events.

The podiums, designed to be hip-height and diagonal for easy access by children, will be mounted on metal stands with a protective barrier. The final design is still in development.

While Schlaefli writes the initial story, the mission is for local fourth-grade classes to create their own stories to be featured in the story stroll.

"This is above and beyond just a regular internship," Phelan said.

Schlaefli is majoring in health promotion and fitness instruction, with a focus on community health. During winter break, she plans to finalize her story and finish its illustrations.

Schlaefli said if the opportunity arises, she would also like to bring a story stroll to Hays.

"If a grant opened up that would allow us to do something like that, then definitely yes," she said.

Phelan, a health promotion and fitness instructor at FHSU from Larned, said Sunflower Electric in Great Bend will install the podiums for the story stroll.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733928542298.jpeg" alt="Early rendering of a podium for the Larned story stroll. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Early rendering of a podium for the Larned story stroll. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731093059976.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA Fort Hays State University student is introducing an interactive story stroll in Larned this spring, combining story time with health.The story stroll will feature about 10 podiums managed by the Jordaan Memorial Library. These will provide a place for stories and encourage physical and mental health.Ryssa Schlaefli is a junior at FHSU and previously had assistant professor Jessica Phelan as a teacher. She has also served as a mentor for Phelan's class through an internship."We started working on a grant, Phelan asked me if I would write a story for the story stroll," Schlaefli said.Schlaefli said working on the Golden Belt Community Foundation grant and writing the first story for the project are not tied to extra credit or her internships.Schlaefli's story follows a blue flower who feels sad and struggles with self-acceptance. With the help of supportive flowers in the flower bed, she learns to embrace and love herself despite her imperfections."Flowers look very different, but they're all beautiful. That's what the story is about," she said.Each podium will display a page of the story along with self-reflection questions and instructions, guiding readers through the story stroll while encouraging them to explore their emotions."Health is more than just physical. It's mental as well. We need those conversations between parents and children,"&nbsp;Schlaefli said.Jordaan Memorial Library, in collaboration with Schlaefli and Phelan, received a $3,000 grant from the Golden Belt Community Foundation.Phelan said there are two possible locations for the story stroll, but there has been no official decision as the city of Larned has shown support.The story stroll project is designed primarily for families and children in the Larned area. It aims to encourage families to be physically active together."A huge part of that is having a support system, resources, and purpose for doing the activity," Phelan said.The podiums will feature stories that can be updated regularly and utilized for promotional events.The podiums, designed to be hip-height and diagonal for easy access by children, will be mounted on metal stands with a protective barrier. The final design is still in development.While Schlaefli writes the initial story, the mission is for local fourth-grade classes to create their own stories to be featured in the story stroll."This is above and beyond just a regular internship," Phelan said.Schlaefli is majoring in health promotion and fitness instruction, with a focus on community health. During winter break, she plans to finalize her story and finish its illustrations.Schlaefli said if the opportunity arises, she would also like to bring a story stroll to Hays."If a grant opened up that would allow us to do something like that, then definitely yes," she said.Phelan, a health promotion and fitness instructor at FHSU from Larned, said Sunflower Electric in Great Bend will install the podiums for the story stroll.

Nwester: FHSU student, library to introduce story strolls to Larned families

The Hays Lions Club is sponsoring a Visit with Santa , Wednesday afternoon December 18th, from 2 to 4 in the lobby, B entrance, Hays Medical Center. 

SubmittedThe Hays Lions Club is sponsoring a Visit with Santa , Wednesday afternoon December 18th, from 2 to 4 in the lobby, B entrance, Hays Medical Center. Bring your children and your camera.

Lions Club sponsors Santa visit Wednesday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A Hays man was arrested earlier this month on a charge of sexual exploitation of a child.

24-year-old Jonathon Alexander Weigel of Hays was arrested on a criminal threat charge, according to Brian Dawson, deputy Hays Police chief.

Upon further investigation, police found that Weigel had allegedly solicited inappropriate photos from a 15-year-old Ellis County girl, Dawson said.

He is also now facing charges of interference with a law enforcement officer and sexual exploitation of a child, Dawson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734392604975.png" alt="Weigel photo Ellis County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Weigel photo Ellis County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Hays man was arrested earlier this month on a charge of sexual exploitation of a child.24-year-old Jonathon Alexander Weigel of Hays was arrested on a criminal threat charge, according to Brian Dawson, deputy Hays Police chief.Upon further investigation, police found that Weigel had allegedly solicited inappropriate photos from a 15-year-old Ellis County girl, Dawson said.He is also now facing charges of interference with a law enforcement officer and sexual exploitation of a child, Dawson said.

Hays man allegedly solicited inappropriate photos from teen

Charles
Allen Tauber, 64, of Hays, Kansas passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at
Hays Medical Center. Charles was born on April 1, 1960, in Oberlin, Kansas to
Francis and Betty Tauber, he was the second of four children.


Charles worked for KDOT for several years then drove semi until he had his
wreck.


Charles had three children Rhonda, Travis, and Troy.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, brother James Tauber, son-in-law
Wesley Flinn, and grandson Nathan Barnhardt


Charles is survived by a daughter Rhonda Flinn; sons, Travis (Julli) Tauber and
Troy (Stacy) Tauber; ten grandchildren; one great granddaughter; sister-in-law
Darla Tauber; sisters, Tonya Tauber and Judy (Tony) Wolf; and several nieces
and nephews.


In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a Hays animal shelter or
organizations that reflect his love for animals, and may be sent in care of
Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences
visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734379808477.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Charles Allen Tauber" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Charles Allen Tauber</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles
Allen Tauber, 64, of Hays, Kansas passed away Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at
Hays Medical Center. Charles was born on April 1, 1960, in Oberlin, Kansas to
Francis and Betty Tauber, he was the second of four children.
Charles worked for KDOT for several years then drove semi until he had his
wreck.
Charles had three children Rhonda, Travis, and Troy.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, brother James Tauber, son-in-law
Wesley Flinn, and grandson Nathan Barnhardt
Charles is survived by a daughter Rhonda Flinn; sons, Travis (Julli) Tauber and
Troy (Stacy) Tauber; ten grandchildren; one great granddaughter; sister-in-law
Darla Tauber; sisters, Tonya Tauber and Judy (Tony) Wolf; and several nieces
and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a Hays animal shelter or
organizations that reflect his love for animals, and may be sent in care of
Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences
visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

 Charles Allen Tauber

Exactly 32 years ago this month, I decided I couldn’t work with my existing employer. Although we knew no one in Hays, we moved to Hays from South Florida.

My wife was immediately happy. She became involved in the community and became active in our church. For the first time in 10 years, she was relieved not to have to live with an absent husband, struggling with two residences and medical school.

Our kids (2, 4, and 6) had transitioned beautifully, immediately finding new friends. At that time, there were no hospital-employed physicians, and the hospital had just transitioned to its new campus, Hays Medical Center. It was a great asset and attracted me to the community in the first place. We loved this community and wanted to stay and start our own independent practice.

We had one problem. It’s called a restrictive covenant. This covenant could have prevented me from staying in this area and practicing dermatology. We decided to fight to stay in Hays.

At that time, the director of medical recruitment of Hays Medical Center testified that we needed at least three dermatologists to service the needs of Hays and the surrounding community.

Our fight eventually ended up at the Supreme Court. We lost. It cost me a lot of money, but I was able to stay in Hays. I believed then, and I believe even more strongly now, that restricting physicians by way of a restrictive covenant is against public welfare.

Fast-forward 30 years. I just read with interest the post from Mr. Herrman regarding the hospital's current status. I agree that the turnover of staff is always a problem at any hospital or physician's office. He acknowledged the difficulty in recruiting physicians to Western Kansas.

Unfortunately, HMC, over the last year, has lost or will lose many physicians. These physicians will be forced to move away from Western Kansas due to restrictive covenants if they want to continue practicing medicine.

Some of these doctors would have chosen to stay in Western Kansas if given the opportunity.

At the same time, HMC is attempting to rebuild these departments. It has filed a lawsuit trying to prevent Dr. Grove from practicing in Tribune, Kansas (165 miles away). If HMC was really interested in providing general surgical care in Greeley County, why restrict his access?

Another lawsuit has been filed by Dr Rodriguez against HMC. He also wants to provide oncology care in Western Kansas. How can HMC operate a cancer center if there is only one remaining oncologist?

Unfortunately, restrictive convents are indeed a common practice amongst physician groups and hospitals.

The covenants at HMC include multiple different physician specialties as well as other staff members, all controlled by one nonprofit corporation. The intent is to reduce competition, but unfortunately, at the same time, they restrict access to health care throughout most of Northwest Kansas if a physician chooses or is forced to leave.

Mr. Herrman sent out an email a couple of weeks ago to all HMC associates stating “noncompete covenants are “standard in health care,” “required” in its contracts, and “provides assurance to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs.”

Noncompete covenants are standard in the health care industry. However, what he fails to state is that not all contracts are as broad as the ones HMC chooses to enforce on its previously employed physicians. More importantly, HMC is not required to enforce them.

Does the last statement imply that previously employed physicians do not have the “expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs”? So, in other words, he’s doing western Kansas a favor by denying those physicians from practicing medicine in this region?

The intent of all restrictive covenants is to preserve a financial asset. We doctors do not consider patients financial assets. We develop very deeply personal relationships with our patients.

No. 1: Why insist on enforcing a restrictive covenant?

If contract negotiations fail, for whatever reason, should that tenured physician be restricted from practicing medicine in the entire region?

After all, we are in a doctor-shortage area. Doctor recruitment to Western Kansas is, unfortunately, nearly impossible. I am not aware of any full-time physicians taking the place of these lost physicians. I have heard about the use of locum tenens for replacement.

In the last 30 years, exactly, 1.5 full-time dermatologists have entered our area. Dr. Schaeffer, who grew up in Salina, and Dr. Hibbs, my daughter. You see, trying to recruit to Western Kansas is very difficult.

No. 2: Why have the local community leaders, elected representatives of our district, our state, elected representatives to our U.S. House of Representatives and Senate and our governor been completely silent about their opinion on the enforcement of this draconian policy?

Enforcement of a policy that prevents respected and established physicians who are living and contributing to their community to leave or stop practicing medicine should be reevaluated. It is certainly against public welfare at a time when access to health care is extremely difficult, especially in underserved areas.

Does anybody believe a doctor previously employed at HMC should be restricted access to all patient care in western Kansas?

No. 3: Does anyone think locum tenens can replace seasoned experience physicians? Filling the empty positions with a locum tenens, who by definition are temporary doctors, is not the answer. They are also much more expensive than permanent physicians.

I sure wish I had a solution to this problem, as I have raised my family and hope to see my grandkids grow up here in Hays. Over the last 30 years, I have developed very strong bonds with many of the physicians that have been forced to leave this area. We certainly need a strong hospital.

I will continue to do everything in my power to support HMC. It is my prayer that HMC can rebuild the physicians and staff they have lost.

However, enforcement of restrictive covenants, which prevent our local trusted physicians from practicing their skills here in Western Kansas, makes absolutely no sense to me.

Nearly all these departing physicians require a hospital to continue practicing their skills. Why would they negotiate themselves into such a dead-end position?

—Don Tillman D.O., Great Plains Dermatology

Exactly 32 years ago this month, I decided I couldn’t work with my existing employer. Although we knew no one in Hays, we moved to Hays from South Florida.My wife was immediately happy. She became involved in the community and became active in our church. For the first time in 10 years, she was relieved not to have to live with an absent husband, struggling with two residences and medical school.Our kids (2, 4, and 6) had transitioned beautifully, immediately finding new friends. At that time, there were no hospital-employed physicians, and the hospital had just transitioned to its new campus, Hays Medical Center. It was a great asset and attracted me to the community in the first place. We loved this community and wanted to stay and start our own independent practice.We had one problem. It’s called a restrictive covenant. This covenant could have prevented me from staying in this area and practicing dermatology. We decided to fight to stay in Hays.At that time, the director of medical recruitment of Hays Medical Center testified that we needed at least three dermatologists to service the needs of Hays and the surrounding community.Our fight eventually ended up at the Supreme Court. We lost. It cost me a lot of money, but I was able to stay in Hays. I believed then, and I believe even more strongly now, that restricting physicians by way of a restrictive covenant is against public welfare.Fast-forward 30 years. I just read with interest the post from Mr. Herrman regarding the hospital's current status. I agree that the turnover of staff is always a problem at any hospital or physician's office. He acknowledged the difficulty in recruiting physicians to Western Kansas.Unfortunately, HMC, over the last year, has lost or will lose many physicians. These physicians will be forced to move away from Western Kansas due to restrictive covenants if they want to continue practicing medicine.Some of these doctors would have chosen to stay in Western Kansas if given the opportunity.At the same time, HMC is attempting to rebuild these departments. It has filed a lawsuit trying to prevent Dr. Grove from practicing in Tribune, Kansas (165 miles away). If HMC was really interested in providing general surgical care in Greeley County, why restrict his access?Another lawsuit has been filed by Dr Rodriguez against HMC. He also wants to provide oncology care in Western Kansas. How can HMC operate a cancer center if there is only one remaining oncologist?Unfortunately, restrictive convents are indeed a common practice amongst physician groups and hospitals.The covenants at HMC include multiple different physician specialties as well as other staff members, all controlled by one nonprofit corporation. The intent is to reduce competition, but unfortunately, at the same time, they restrict access to health care throughout most of Northwest Kansas if a physician chooses or is forced to leave.Mr. Herrman sent out an email a couple of weeks ago to all HMC associates stating “noncompete covenants are “standard in health care,” “required” in its contracts, and “provides assurance to our patients that the hospital and its clinics have the medical staff and expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs.”Noncompete covenants are standard in the health care industry. However, what he fails to state is that not all contracts are as broad as the ones HMC chooses to enforce on its previously employed physicians. More importantly, HMC is not required to enforce them.Does the last statement imply that previously employed physicians do not have the “expertise to provide for their oftentimes complex medical needs”? So, in other words, he’s doing western Kansas a favor by denying those physicians from practicing medicine in this region?The intent of all restrictive covenants is to preserve a financial asset. We doctors do not consider patients financial assets. We develop very deeply personal relationships with our patients.My questions are:No. 1: Why insist on enforcing a restrictive covenant?If contract negotiations fail, for whatever reason, should that tenured physician be restricted from practicing medicine in the entire region?After all, we are in a doctor-shortage area. Doctor recruitment to Western Kansas is, unfortunately, nearly impossible. I am not aware of any full-time physicians taking the place of these lost physicians. I have heard about the use of locum tenens for replacement.In the last 30 years, exactly, 1.5 full-time dermatologists have entered our area. Dr. Schaeffer, who grew up in Salina, and Dr. Hibbs, my daughter. You see, trying to recruit to Western Kansas is very difficult.No. 2: Why have the local community leaders, elected representatives of our district, our state, elected representatives to our U.S. House of Representatives and Senate and our governor been completely silent about their opinion on the enforcement of this draconian policy?Enforcement of a policy that prevents respected and established physicians who are living and contributing to their community to leave or stop practicing medicine should be reevaluated. It is certainly against public welfare at a time when access to health care is extremely difficult, especially in underserved areas.Does anybody believe a doctor previously employed at HMC should be restricted access to all patient care in western Kansas?No. 3: Does anyone think locum tenens can replace seasoned experience physicians? Filling the empty positions with a locum tenens, who by definition are temporary doctors, is not the answer. They are also much more expensive than permanent physicians.I sure wish I had a solution to this problem, as I have raised my family and hope to see my grandkids grow up here in Hays. Over the last 30 years, I have developed very strong bonds with many of the physicians that have been forced to leave this area. We certainly need a strong hospital.I will continue to do everything in my power to support HMC. It is my prayer that HMC can rebuild the physicians and staff they have lost.However, enforcement of restrictive covenants, which prevent our local trusted physicians from practicing their skills here in Western Kansas, makes absolutely no sense to me.Nearly all these departing physicians require a hospital to continue practicing their skills. Why would they negotiate themselves into such a dead-end position?—Don Tillman D.O., Great Plains Dermatology

LETTER: Noncompete clauses, lessons not learned from the past

Bethel College (7-6, 3-4 KCAC) at Fort Hays State (5-3, 1-1 MIAA) Monday, December 16 • 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial Coliseum

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 is back at home for three games in seven days, starting with Bethel College on Monday night. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers are coming off a road non-conference win at William Jewell on Saturday, while the Threshers are coming off a loss in conference play on Saturday evening. FHSU enters at 5-3 overall, while Bethel is 7-6 overall.

Fort Hays State made a big second-half rally at William Jewell on Saturday for a four-point win. The Tigers were down 12 at halftime, got past the Cardinals midway in the second half, and then held on late for the win. The Tigers had five players score in double figures, led by Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;with 11. Hammeke had the final seven points of the game for FHSU.

The Tigers have won 17 games in a row against Bethel and hold an all-time record of 17-2 against the Threshers. Bethel won the first two meetings ever all the way back in 1925-26. FHSU defeated Bethel by a score of 73-48 last year in Hays. The Tigers are 10-0 against the Threshers under Mark Johnson.

Hammeke&nbsp;leads the Tigers in scoring at 14.1 points per game and assists at 4.4 per game. Kyle Grill&nbsp;(13.4) and Shaun Riley&nbsp;(12.6) also average double figures in scoring. Riley is the team leader in rebounds at 7.1 per game.

The Tigers have the lowest turnovers per game average in the MIAA at 9.4 and own the conference's best assist/turnover ratio at 1.41. The Tigers have committed less than 10 turnovers in five of eight games this season, including a season-low five in their win at William Jewell on Saturday. FHSU has the second-best 3-point field goal percentage in the MIAA at 39 percent.

Bethel has four players averaging double figures in scoring this season, led by Carmelo Yakubu at 14.8 points per game. He is also the team leader in rebounds at 7.6 per game.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734349686820.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsBethel College (7-6, 3-4 KCAC) at Fort Hays State (5-3, 1-1 MIAA) Monday, December 16 • 7 p.m. Hays, Kan. • Gross Memorial ColiseumRadio:&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 is back at home for three games in seven days, starting with Bethel College on Monday night. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. at Gross Memorial Coliseum. The Tigers are coming off a road non-conference win at William Jewell on Saturday, while the Threshers are coming off a loss in conference play on Saturday evening. FHSU enters at 5-3 overall, while Bethel is 7-6 overall.Fort Hays State made a big second-half rally at William Jewell on Saturday for a four-point win. The Tigers were down 12 at halftime, got past the Cardinals midway in the second half, and then held on late for the win. The Tigers had five players score in double figures, led by Kaleb Hammeke&nbsp;with 11. Hammeke had the final seven points of the game for FHSU.The Tigers have won 17 games in a row against Bethel and hold an all-time record of 17-2 against the Threshers. Bethel won the first two meetings ever all the way back in 1925-26. FHSU defeated Bethel by a score of 73-48 last year in Hays. The Tigers are 10-0 against the Threshers under Mark Johnson.Hammeke&nbsp;leads the Tigers in scoring at 14.1 points per game and assists at 4.4 per game. Kyle Grill&nbsp;(13.4) and Shaun Riley&nbsp;(12.6) also average double figures in scoring. Riley is the team leader in rebounds at 7.1 per game.The Tigers have the lowest turnovers per game average in the MIAA at 9.4 and own the conference's best assist/turnover ratio at 1.41. The Tigers have committed less than 10 turnovers in five of eight games this season, including a season-low five in their win at William Jewell on Saturday. FHSU has the second-best 3-point field goal percentage in the MIAA at 39 percent.Bethel has four players averaging double figures in scoring this season, led by Carmelo Yakubu at 14.8 points per game. He is also the team leader in rebounds at 7.6 per game.

🏀🎧 LISTEN: Tiger men host Bethel College Monday to begin 3-game homestand

There is a water main break at 11th and Main.

Eleventh Streets is closed from Main to Oak. 

 Water has been shut off from 10th to 11th on Main and from Main to Pine on 11th Street. 

 Staff will be working to contact businesses this morning. 

 Once emergency locates are completed staff will begin excavating to make repairs. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734453552856.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysThere is a water main break at 11th and Main.Eleventh Streets is closed from Main to Oak. Water has been shut off from 10th to 11th on Main and from Main to Pine on 11th Street. Staff will be working to contact businesses this morning. Once emergency locates are completed staff will begin excavating to make repairs. We apologize for any inconvenience.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734453562123.jpeg" alt="470241821_914150287517309_6394181498580006641_n.jpg" />
 <figcaption>470241821_914150287517309_6394181498580006641_n.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Water main break at 11th, Main closes street

Fort Hays State men's basketball seeks their first road win of the season when they take on William Jewell College on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the Mabee Center in Liberty, Mo.

Fort Hays State men's basketball seeks their first road win of the season when they take on William Jewell College on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the Mabee Center in Liberty, Mo.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind - MBB at William Jewell College (December 14, 2024)" 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=4xfva-1772a72-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>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: MBB at William Jewell College (Dec. 14, 2024)

&nbsp;Sarah Meitner, executive director of the <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a> in Hays, was honored as one of 14 Rural Innovators recognized by the White House for their outstanding contributions to rural communities across the United States.

Meitner, the sole Kansan selected for this distinction, participated in the White House Rural Innovators Initiative event on Wednesday, where she highlighted the impactful work happening in northwest Kansas.

Meitner was nominated for the honor by Sara Bloom, quality places manager at the Kansas Department of Commerce, for her leadership in creating inclusive spaces, fostering a culture of charitable giving and supporting local nonprofits.

Central to her nomination was her work on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HAYSARCPARK/">Hays ARC Park</a>, a $2.1 million inclusive playground and splash pad that opened in September 2021.

Inspired by her son, Abe, who has Down syndrome, the ARC Park provides a space where children and families of all abilities can play together. The project has since inspired multiple accessible park initiatives across Kansas and beyond — serving as a model for inclusive community development.

The ARC Park has quickly become a community treasure and welcomes thousands of visitors a year from local communities and families passing through Hays.

In addition to her role at the Heartland Community Foundation, Meitner serves as president of the board for <a href="https://arcofcentralplains.org/">The Arc of Central Plains</a>. Work on Phase 3 of the ARC Park continues, with more fundraising dollars needed.

“It was absolutely the coolest experience,” Meitner said, of the White House event. “I was honored to represent Kansas and share the incredible stories of perseverance, humilit, and collaboration from our Heartland communities. While I didn’t feel worthy, I realized the collective work we’re doing together truly makes a difference.”

Under Meitner’s leadership, the Heartland Community Foundation, which serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties, has championed initiatives that cultivate a culture of charitable giving, support local nonprofits and create inclusive spaces that empower the next generation of rural leaders.

Notably, the foundation has established the Heartland Youth Action Council, engaging young leaders in philanthropy and community development.

Additionally, the foundation has&nbsp;more than doubled its total assets in four years,&nbsp;a critical step toward ensuring sustainable funding for community projects now and in the future.

Each year, the foundation grants out more than $400,000 to support a wide range of initiatives in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties, with that number steadily growing.

The Heartland Community Foundation holds endowed funds for more than 60 local nonprofits, connecting donors to causes that align with their passions and helping individuals leave&nbsp;charitable gifts in their estate plans.

The foundation also works with businesses to ensure their charitable giving is both&nbsp;informed and tax-smart.&nbsp;Beyond financial support, the foundation partners with nonprofits to empower their capital projects through fundraising guidance, marketing assistance, grant opportunities and strategic support.

These efforts collectively strengthen the region’s capacity to thrive and ensure a legacy of generosity and growth.

During the White House event, Meitner connected with fellow Rural Innovators, sharing stories of rural challenges and successes.

The recognition ceremony took place in the historic Indian Treaty Room, and the day also included a White House holiday tour, a reception hosted by the USDA, and unique experiences such as visiting the Truman Bowling Alley and underground tunnels.

Reflecting on the experience, Meitner emphasized the strength of rural communities: “The Deputy Secretary for the Department of Agriculture spoke about rural capacity building, but also reminded us that there is already so much capacity happening in rural communities. 

"The innovation and determination I witnessed reinforced the incredible potential we have in northwest Kansas and similar regions.”

Meitner, a Wichita native, has lived in&nbsp;Hays for almost 10 years&nbsp;with her husband, Chad, who is the principal at&nbsp;Thomas More Prep-Marian School, and their five children:&nbsp;Julia, 20, a junior at the University of Notre Dame;&nbsp;Henry, 18, a freshman at Fort Hays State University;&nbsp;Charlie, 15, a sophomore at TMP;&nbsp;Leo, 13, a seventh grader at TMP; and&nbsp;Abe, a fourth grader at Roosevelt Elementary.

For more information about the White House Rural Innovators Initiative and to see the full list of recipients, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rural.gov/rural-innovators-initiative">www.rural.gov/rural-innovators-initiative</a>.

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 </figure>Submitted&nbsp;Sarah Meitner, executive director of the <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">Heartland Community Foundation</a> in Hays, was honored as one of 14 Rural Innovators recognized by the White House for their outstanding contributions to rural communities across the United States. Meitner, the sole Kansan selected for this distinction, participated in the White House Rural Innovators Initiative event on Wednesday, where she highlighted the impactful work happening in northwest Kansas.Meitner was nominated for the honor by Sara Bloom, quality places manager at the Kansas Department of Commerce, for her leadership in creating inclusive spaces, fostering a culture of charitable giving and supporting local nonprofits.Central to her nomination was her work on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HAYSARCPARK/">Hays ARC Park</a>, a $2.1 million inclusive playground and splash pad that opened in September 2021.Inspired by her son, Abe, who has Down syndrome, the ARC Park provides a space where children and families of all abilities can play together. The project has since inspired multiple accessible park initiatives across Kansas and beyond — serving as a model for inclusive community development.The ARC Park has quickly become a community treasure and welcomes thousands of visitors a year from local communities and families passing through Hays.In addition to her role at the Heartland Community Foundation, Meitner serves as president of the board for <a href="https://arcofcentralplains.org/">The Arc of Central Plains</a>. Work on Phase 3 of the ARC Park continues, with more fundraising dollars needed.“It was absolutely the coolest experience,” Meitner said, of the White House event. “I was honored to represent Kansas and share the incredible stories of perseverance, humilit, and collaboration from our Heartland communities. While I didn’t feel worthy, I realized the collective work we’re doing together truly makes a difference.”Under Meitner’s leadership, the Heartland Community Foundation, which serves Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties, has championed initiatives that cultivate a culture of charitable giving, support local nonprofits and create inclusive spaces that empower the next generation of rural leaders.Notably, the foundation has established the Heartland Youth Action Council, engaging young leaders in philanthropy and community development.Additionally, the foundation has&nbsp;more than doubled its total assets in four years,&nbsp;a critical step toward ensuring sustainable funding for community projects now and in the future.Each year, the foundation grants out more than $400,000 to support a wide range of initiatives in Ellis, Rooks and Trego counties, with that number steadily growing.The Heartland Community Foundation holds endowed funds for more than 60 local nonprofits, connecting donors to causes that align with their passions and helping individuals leave&nbsp;charitable gifts in their estate plans.The foundation also works with businesses to ensure their charitable giving is both&nbsp;informed and tax-smart.&nbsp;Beyond financial support, the foundation partners with nonprofits to empower their capital projects through fundraising guidance, marketing assistance, grant opportunities and strategic support.These efforts collectively strengthen the region’s capacity to thrive and ensure a legacy of generosity and growth.During the White House event, Meitner connected with fellow Rural Innovators, sharing stories of rural challenges and successes.The recognition ceremony took place in the historic Indian Treaty Room, and the day also included a White House holiday tour, a reception hosted by the USDA, and unique experiences such as visiting the Truman Bowling Alley and underground tunnels.Reflecting on the experience, Meitner emphasized the strength of rural communities: “The Deputy Secretary for the Department of Agriculture spoke about rural capacity building, but also reminded us that there is already so much capacity happening in rural communities. "The innovation and determination I witnessed reinforced the incredible potential we have in northwest Kansas and similar regions.”Meitner, a Wichita native, has lived in&nbsp;Hays for almost 10 years&nbsp;with her husband, Chad, who is the principal at&nbsp;Thomas More Prep-Marian School, and their five children:&nbsp;Julia, 20, a junior at the University of Notre Dame;&nbsp;Henry, 18, a freshman at Fort Hays State University;&nbsp;Charlie, 15, a sophomore at TMP;&nbsp;Leo, 13, a seventh grader at TMP; and&nbsp;Abe, a fourth grader at Roosevelt Elementary.For more information about the White House Rural Innovators Initiative and to see the full list of recipients, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rural.gov/rural-innovators-initiative">www.rural.gov/rural-innovators-initiative</a>.

Heartland Foundation director recognized as Rural Innovator at the White House

Monday, December 16
 KFIX: Chiefs Kingdom,
6pm &nbsp;KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. Bethel College, 6:30pm

Monday, December 16
 KFIX: Chiefs Kingdom,
6pm &nbsp;KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. Bethel College, 6:30pmTuesday, December 17
 KKQY: Ellis MWBKB at
Phillipsburg, 5:15
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Hoxie, 5:40pmWednesday, December 18
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pm
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with Bill Self, 6pmThursday, December 19
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
WBKB vs. Truman State, 7:35pmFriday, December 20
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB
at Manhattan, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Central Plains, 5:40pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. MSU Denver, 6:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB vs. Quincy, 9:35pmSaturday, December 21
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs vs. Houston Texans, 11:00amSunday, December 22
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
Brown, 12:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB vs. Regis, 1:30pm

A recent Kansas Association of School Boards study recognized Hays USD 489 as a high-performing district.

Mark Tallman, researcher, gave a presentation last week to the Hays school board on his findings.

The research identified school districts in the state that were outperforming their expected scores on state tests. Some challenges the research considered were the number of students facing poverty and special education students in districts.

Tallman focused on three aspects of the state board of education accreditation standards, including state assessment scores, graduation rate and post-secondary success.

Post-secondary success, as defined by the state board, means the number of students in post-secondary education who have achieved a degree or certificate two years after graduation. It does not count students who enter the workforce directly or join the military.

<figure>
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 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA recent Kansas Association of School Boards study recognized Hays USD 489 as a high-performing district.Mark Tallman, researcher, gave a presentation last week to the Hays school board on his findings.The research identified school districts in the state that were outperforming their expected scores on state tests. Some challenges the research considered were the number of students facing poverty and special education students in districts.Tallman focused on three aspects of the state board of education accreditation standards, including state assessment scores, graduation rate and post-secondary success.Post-secondary success, as defined by the state board, means the number of students in post-secondary education who have achieved a degree or certificate two years after graduation. It does not count students who enter the workforce directly or join the military.<figure>
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 </figure>&nbsp;Ninety percent of jobs are expected to require a high school diploma. Seventy to 75% of jobs are expected to require more than a high school diploma, Tallman said.On average, salary tends to increase with education. The average salary of a non-high school graduate is $32,838, and the average salary of a person with a bachelor's degree is $58,583.Education level has an inverse relationship to poverty level. Twenty-four percent of workers without a high school education are in poverty, compared to 4.1% with bachelor's degrees.<figure>
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 </figure>States with higher per capita education levels have higher per capita incomes. Kansas currently ranks somewhere in the middle.Tallman suggested if Kansas could increase its four-year college completion rate from 35 to 39% statewide, incomes would increase by&nbsp;$23.2 billion per year, which would mean about a 4.4% increase in personal income.He suggested that would result in an increase in income tax revenue for the state."At that rate, Kansas schools would receive over $1 billion in additional funding or over $2,100 per unweighted pupil," Tallman said."It's easy to say who's best on all of those, but there's a complication," Tallman said. "We know there are significant differences based on factors the school can't control."Tallman also looked at the percentage of students who received free or reduced-cost lunch and had disabilities.He also compared districts with similar enrollments. Hays fell into a tier with schools with enrollments of between 1,600 and 10,000 students and was compared with 49 other public schools. Hays has an enrollment of about 3,100 students.Tallman said the more higher need, low-income, disabled students you have, the worse your results tend to be. He said getting higher results is more difficult if you have more challenging students, but any district can show improvement over time.&nbsp;Tallman said 11 of the 50 school districts in Hays' tier performed better than expected.When performance was adjusted for poverty and disability weighting, the Hays district ranked third in its enrollment tier.<figure>
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 </figure>&nbsp;Tallman spoke to district leaders to determine what the district staff was doing to achieve success. Despite the districts' differences, he found many similarities. Hays was doing all of the things he highlighted in his report, Tallman said.<figure>
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 </figure>"It is not necessary that these districts are doing different things, but they are doing them with a higher degree of commitment," Tallman said.The successful districts stressed the use of data and accepted the validity of that data.They did not say their only goal was to raise test scores but said increasing scores was among their goals, Tallman said. The districts dedicated staff and time to analyzing that data and used that information to make decisions."If you don't put your work into independent context ... if you aren't looking at how you compare to other districts, how you compare over time, how you compare to state standards, then you don't really know how you're doing based just on yourself," Tallman said.<figure>
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 </figure>"If a student is not getting this math concept at this level, then we do something about this student," Tallman said.The recognized districts also said they were doing more to help students address mental health and personal challenges. Tallman called this "High Love and High Expectations."He said lowering expectations of at-risk students does not help them.&nbsp;"Not easier routes, but more routes to success," he said.Engaging students and their parents was a high priority to the districts that were recognized as high performers. That included career pathways, individual plans of study, clubs and activities, a larger voice for students, engagement with parents and the community, and emphasis on early childhood education."If all that we do is stand out there and demand that they learn," Tallman said, "that doesn't work."Tallman said successful districts credit their local school board for being supportive but balanced oversight with letting educators do their jobs.Teachers in these districts also said they supported their administrators and felt valued. He said there was a strong sense of collaboration and teamwork.Because of high morale, these districts tended to be less affected by teacher shortages because they were able to retain teachers, Tallman said.&nbsp;"I think your district has a lot to be proud of. I think your community has a lot to be proud of," Tallman said.