Hays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.

The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.

For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734024830454.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays Pride will host a community potluck to celebrate the holiday season and to provide an opportunity for discussion about community needs, priorities and projects that Hays Pride might undertake in 2025.The potluck will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at&nbsp;St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays.All are welcome! For further information, contact Hays Pride board president J. David Macey at jdavidmacey@gmail.com.

Hays Pride community potluck set for Saturday

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball has officially announced the signing of Ben Johnson for the 2025-26 season. Johnson is currently a senior at Kearney High School in Kearney, Neb. He is a 6-foot, 5-inch guard.

Johnson was a Class A All-State selection and a Nebraska Super State Third Team selection as a junior in 2023-24. He averaged 18.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game and helped Kearney High School to the A-7 District Final. He was also an all-state honorable mention pick in his sophomore season. Johnson was the Kearney Hub Territory Player of the Year in 2023-24.

Early on in his senior campaign of 2024-25, Johnson eclipsed the 1,000-point mark for his high school career.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734088245443.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State Men's Basketball has officially announced the signing of Ben Johnson for the 2025-26 season. Johnson is currently a senior at Kearney High School in Kearney, Neb. He is a 6-foot, 5-inch guard.Johnson was a Class A All-State selection and a Nebraska Super State Third Team selection as a junior in 2023-24. He averaged 18.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game and helped Kearney High School to the A-7 District Final. He was also an all-state honorable mention pick in his sophomore season. Johnson was the Kearney Hub Territory Player of the Year in 2023-24.Early on in his senior campaign of 2024-25, Johnson eclipsed the 1,000-point mark for his high school career.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏀 FHSU men announce the signing of Ben Johnson for 2025-26

Dennis J. Pfannenstiel age 80, of Hays, Kansas passed away
on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at his home. 

&nbsp;He was born January 21, 1944, on the family farm south of Munjor, Kansas to
Constantine “Connie” and Marcella (Doerfler) Pfannenstiel.&nbsp; He married the
love of his life, Elaine G. (Phelps) on June 28, 1969, at Munjor, Kansas.

Dennis worked at and was an owner of State Glass Company in Hays for over 30
years. Farming and cattle was always a passion of Dennis’s, and he and his
cousin Ernie Meier ran Ern-Den Farm for around 40 years.&nbsp; Dennis served two
terms as an Ellis County Commissioner and enjoyed serving the community.&nbsp;
Once Dennis retired from State Glass Company in 2004, he worked for the Ellis
County Sheriff’s Department part-time transporting inmates up until 2020.&nbsp;

He grew up on the family farm south of Munjor, and he attended high school at
St. Joseph’s Military Academy in Hays, where he graduated in 1962.&nbsp; Dennis
then served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas.

Dennis was member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, and a
member of the 3rd Degree St. Mary Council # 6984 Knights of
Columbus. 

He enjoyed bowling, golf, fishing, watching KU basketball, Royals baseball, and
the Chiefs football. He always looked forward to playing cards every week with
several of his friends.&nbsp;

Dennis is survived by his wife, Elaine, of the home; his son, Grant A.
Pfannenstiel and wife, Lacey, Hays, KS: his brother, Duane ‘Whitey”
Pfannenstiel and wife, Becky, Topeka, KS; his sister, Gloria Koirth and
husband, Larry, Hays, KS; and his brother-in-law, Jim Basgall, Kansas City,
Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Connie and Marcella; his brother,
Stanley, Jim and Norman; and his sister, Jeanie Basgall.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M.
Friday, December 13, 2024, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1805
Vine, Hays, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Nick Parker.&nbsp; A private family
inurnment will be at a later date.

The family will receive friends from 8:30 to 10:00 A.M. Friday, at the church
with a vigil service and Knights of Columbus rosary at 9:30 A.M.&nbsp; &nbsp; 

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials made payable to: Immaculate
Heart of Mary Catholic Church or TMP-Marian High School in care of
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601.

&nbsp;Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left by guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733927640709.jpeg" alt="Dennis J. Pfannenstiel" />
 <figcaption>Dennis J. Pfannenstiel</figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis J. Pfannenstiel age 80, of Hays, Kansas passed away
on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at his home. &nbsp;He was born January 21, 1944, on the family farm south of Munjor, Kansas to
Constantine “Connie” and Marcella (Doerfler) Pfannenstiel.&nbsp; He married the
love of his life, Elaine G. (Phelps) on June 28, 1969, at Munjor, Kansas.Dennis worked at and was an owner of State Glass Company in Hays for over 30
years. Farming and cattle was always a passion of Dennis’s, and he and his
cousin Ernie Meier ran Ern-Den Farm for around 40 years.&nbsp; Dennis served two
terms as an Ellis County Commissioner and enjoyed serving the community.&nbsp;
Once Dennis retired from State Glass Company in 2004, he worked for the Ellis
County Sheriff’s Department part-time transporting inmates up until 2020.&nbsp;He grew up on the family farm south of Munjor, and he attended high school at
St. Joseph’s Military Academy in Hays, where he graduated in 1962.&nbsp; Dennis
then served in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas.Dennis was member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, and a
member of the 3rd Degree St. Mary Council # 6984 Knights of
Columbus. He enjoyed bowling, golf, fishing, watching KU basketball, Royals baseball, and
the Chiefs football. He always looked forward to playing cards every week with
several of his friends.&nbsp;Dennis is survived by his wife, Elaine, of the home; his son, Grant A.
Pfannenstiel and wife, Lacey, Hays, KS: his brother, Duane ‘Whitey”
Pfannenstiel and wife, Becky, Topeka, KS; his sister, Gloria Koirth and
husband, Larry, Hays, KS; and his brother-in-law, Jim Basgall, Kansas City,
Kansas.He was preceded in death by his parents, Connie and Marcella; his brother,
Stanley, Jim and Norman; and his sister, Jeanie Basgall.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M.
Friday, December 13, 2024, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1805
Vine, Hays, Kansas with Celebrant, Father Nick Parker.&nbsp; A private family
inurnment will be at a later date.The family will receive friends from 8:30 to 10:00 A.M. Friday, at the church
with a vigil service and Knights of Columbus rosary at 9:30 A.M.&nbsp; &nbsp; In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials made payable to: Immaculate
Heart of Mary Catholic Church or TMP-Marian High School in care of
Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays,
Kansas 67601.&nbsp;Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left by guestbook at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Dennis J. Pfannenstiel

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Tadhg Walsh, Marcos German and Elias Ovelar Semeniuk&nbsp;received more all-region selections on Thursday, named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Central Region Team. All three were also named to the D2CCA All-Central Region First Team in late November. This all-region team is selected by coaches within the Central Region.

Walsh, German, and Semeniuk were among the 11 players from the Central Region to receive the honor from United Soccer Coaches. All three were also All-GAC First Team selections in 2024. Walsh and German were both named All-America selections by the D2CCA earlier this week after the all-region first team selections.

Walsh finished the year with 25 points to lead Fort Hays State. He set a new single-season record at FHSU for assists with 15, while adding five goals for the season. He was an All-GAC First Team selection for the second-straight year and is now a three-time all-conference selection overall.

German completed the 2024 season with 17 points, producing four goals and nine assists. He led the team in shots with 48, while playing the fourth-most minutes on the team (1,541).

Semeniuk finished the season as the team leader in goals scored with nine. He had 21 points for the season, adding three assists to his goal total. Semeniuk is a two-time all-conference selection overall. He led the team in shots on goal (22) and game-winning goals (4).&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734096848959.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - Tadhg Walsh, Marcos German and Elias Ovelar Semeniuk&nbsp;received more all-region selections on Thursday, named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Central Region Team. All three were also named to the D2CCA All-Central Region First Team in late November. This all-region team is selected by coaches within the Central Region.Walsh, German, and Semeniuk were among the 11 players from the Central Region to receive the honor from United Soccer Coaches. All three were also All-GAC First Team selections in 2024. Walsh and German were both named All-America selections by the D2CCA earlier this week after the all-region first team selections.Walsh finished the year with 25 points to lead Fort Hays State. He set a new single-season record at FHSU for assists with 15, while adding five goals for the season. He was an All-GAC First Team selection for the second-straight year and is now a three-time all-conference selection overall.German completed the 2024 season with 17 points, producing four goals and nine assists. He led the team in shots with 48, while playing the fourth-most minutes on the team (1,541).Semeniuk finished the season as the team leader in goals scored with nine. He had 21 points for the season, adding three assists to his goal total. Semeniuk is a two-time all-conference selection overall. He led the team in shots on goal (22) and game-winning goals (4).&nbsp;&nbsp;

⚽ Three Tigers named to United Soccer Coaches All-Central Region Team

City of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. 

The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.

As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.

City of HaysCity of Hays staff repaired the break in the city’s water transmission line. The request for additional conservation of water has been lifted.As always, Hays residents are great stewards of protecting our most precious resource.Thank you for your cooperation!

Hays water conservation request lifted

Linda Sue
Kohlrus, age 69 of Ellis, Kansas died Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at Trego
County Lemke Memorial Hospital - WaKeeney.

She was born
December 23, 1954, in Hays, Kansas to Irvin and Lucille (Herl) Toepfer. In
November of 1974 she was united in marriage to Terry Kohlrus at Immaculate
Heart of Mary Catholic Church – Hays.

Linda was a
loving and devoted homemaker and cherished the time she spent with family,
especially her grandchildren.&nbsp; She was a sucker for a good Hallmark movie,
particularly during the Christmas season.

Many of her
afternoons and evenings were at the racetrack, and it was rare to see her
without Terry by her side.

Linda is
survived by her husband, Terry and their children: Travis (Susie) Kohlrus of
Ellis, Jennifer (Chad) Sproul of Hays, together with her four grandchildren:
Dakota (Kaitlyn), Dawson, Tanner, and MaKenzie.

She is also
survived by her siblings: Terry (Paulette) Neubauer of Oklahoma, Jean Couch of
Kansas, and Shelly (Tim) Kohlrus of Arizona, and several nieces and
nephews.&nbsp; She was preceded by her parents, her sister: Lanie, and
sister-in-law: Janet Neubauer, and several beloved dogs that gave her great
companionship and love throughout her life.

Mass of
Christian burial will be Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 11:30 AM at St. Mary's
Catholic Church, 703 Monroe Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.

Memorial
visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the church with a
recitation of the Rosary beginning at 11:00 AM prior to services.

In lieu of
flowers, memorials are suggested to The Humane Society of the High Plains,
and/or Hospice Services, Inc., and Palliative Care of Northwest Kansas in care
of the Funeral Chapel.

Services in
care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400
East 17th Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734027432443.jpeg" alt="Linda Sue Kohlrus" />
 <figcaption>Linda Sue Kohlrus</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Sue
Kohlrus, age 69 of Ellis, Kansas died Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at Trego
County Lemke Memorial Hospital - WaKeeney.She was born
December 23, 1954, in Hays, Kansas to Irvin and Lucille (Herl) Toepfer. In
November of 1974 she was united in marriage to Terry Kohlrus at Immaculate
Heart of Mary Catholic Church – Hays.Linda was a
loving and devoted homemaker and cherished the time she spent with family,
especially her grandchildren.&nbsp; She was a sucker for a good Hallmark movie,
particularly during the Christmas season.Many of her
afternoons and evenings were at the racetrack, and it was rare to see her
without Terry by her side.Linda is
survived by her husband, Terry and their children: Travis (Susie) Kohlrus of
Ellis, Jennifer (Chad) Sproul of Hays, together with her four grandchildren:
Dakota (Kaitlyn), Dawson, Tanner, and MaKenzie.She is also
survived by her siblings: Terry (Paulette) Neubauer of Oklahoma, Jean Couch of
Kansas, and Shelly (Tim) Kohlrus of Arizona, and several nieces and
nephews.&nbsp; She was preceded by her parents, her sister: Lanie, and
sister-in-law: Janet Neubauer, and several beloved dogs that gave her great
companionship and love throughout her life.Mass of
Christian burial will be Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 11:30 AM at St. Mary's
Catholic Church, 703 Monroe Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.Memorial
visitation will be on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the church with a
recitation of the Rosary beginning at 11:00 AM prior to services.In lieu of
flowers, memorials are suggested to The Humane Society of the High Plains,
and/or Hospice Services, Inc., and Palliative Care of Northwest Kansas in care
of the Funeral Chapel.Services in
care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Keithley Funeral Chapel, 400
East 17th Street Ellis, Kansas 67637.

Linda Sue Kohlrus

KANSAS- The Kansas Shrine Bowl is proud to introduce the coaches who will lead the East and West teams in the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Dodge City, Kansas. Each classification 1A through 6A is represented on the coaching staff, while the Head Coach of each team is selected from the previous year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl assistants.

The West team will be led by Dominick Dingle (Wichita Heights) and assisted by Russ Wells (Wichita South – 6A), Mike Vernon (Hutchinson – 5A), Daniel Myears (Mulvane – 4A), Tyson Bauerle (Hesston – 3A), Butch Hayes (Council Grove – 2A), and Alex McMillian (Plainville – 1A). Wells (2020), Vernon (2021) and Bauerle (2018) have all assisted on the West staff in previous Shrine Bowls, while Bauerle also led the 2019 West team to a 26-7 victory as the Head Coach at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.

The East team will be led by Garrett Michael (Sabetha) and assisted by Josh Koerkenmeier (Blue Valley West – 6A), Jared Swafford (Seaman – 5A), Clete Frazell (Chanute – 4A), Mike Berg (Wellsville – 3A), Logan Wyrick (Humboldt – 2A), and Roger Holthaus (Centralia – 1A). Among the 2025 assistants, only Wyrick (2019) has previously coached in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.

“We’re thankful to have a great group of coaches willing to give of their time and talents to lead our teams in the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl,” said Brice Kesler, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “It’s not an easy job to bring 44 players from different programs together and mold them into a team within one week. I have no doubt that these men will get that job done, while also exemplifying the mission behind the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”

The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth will be played at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, Kansas on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at 7:00 pm. The initial rosters for the game will be announced during the annual Kansas Shrine Bowl Player Selection Show, which is set to air on Wednesday, January 1st, 2025, at 10:00 am. The selection show can be watched at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>. For more information on the Kansas Shrine Bowl and all the additional camps, events and support opportunities surrounding the game, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>&nbsp;or call the Kansas Shrine Bowl office at 913-602-8656.

Shrine Bowl of Kansas Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s Hospital. Since 1974, nearly $4 million has been sent to Shriners Children’s thanks to the supporters of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Shriners Children’s is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children’s is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients’ ability to pay.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Shrine BowlKANSAS- The Kansas Shrine Bowl is proud to introduce the coaches who will lead the East and West teams in the 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth on Saturday, June 21, 2025, in Dodge City, Kansas. Each classification 1A through 6A is represented on the coaching staff, while the Head Coach of each team is selected from the previous year’s Kansas Shrine Bowl assistants.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734017689496.png" alt="thumbnail_2025 West Staff Graphic.png" />
 <figcaption>thumbnail_2025 West Staff Graphic.png</figcaption>
 </figure>The West team will be led by Dominick Dingle (Wichita Heights) and assisted by Russ Wells (Wichita South – 6A), Mike Vernon (Hutchinson – 5A), Daniel Myears (Mulvane – 4A), Tyson Bauerle (Hesston – 3A), Butch Hayes (Council Grove – 2A), and Alex McMillian (Plainville – 1A). Wells (2020), Vernon (2021) and Bauerle (2018) have all assisted on the West staff in previous Shrine Bowls, while Bauerle also led the 2019 West team to a 26-7 victory as the Head Coach at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734017719551.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The East team will be led by Garrett Michael (Sabetha) and assisted by Josh Koerkenmeier (Blue Valley West – 6A), Jared Swafford (Seaman – 5A), Clete Frazell (Chanute – 4A), Mike Berg (Wellsville – 3A), Logan Wyrick (Humboldt – 2A), and Roger Holthaus (Centralia – 1A). Among the 2025 assistants, only Wyrick (2019) has previously coached in the Kansas Shrine Bowl.“We’re thankful to have a great group of coaches willing to give of their time and talents to lead our teams in the 2025 Kansas Shrine Bowl,” said Brice Kesler, Executive Director of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. “It’s not an easy job to bring 44 players from different programs together and mold them into a team within one week. I have no doubt that these men will get that job done, while also exemplifying the mission behind the Kansas Shrine Bowl.”The 52nd Kansas Shrine Bowl presented by Mammoth will be played at Memorial Stadium in Dodge City, Kansas on Saturday, June 21st, 2025, at 7:00 pm. The initial rosters for the game will be announced during the annual Kansas Shrine Bowl Player Selection Show, which is set to air on Wednesday, January 1st, 2025, at 10:00 am. The selection show can be watched at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>. For more information on the Kansas Shrine Bowl and all the additional camps, events and support opportunities surrounding the game, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kansasshrinebowl.com/">www.KansasShrineBowl.com</a>&nbsp;or call the Kansas Shrine Bowl office at 913-602-8656.Shrine Bowl of Kansas Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that produces annual events and related activities, with net proceeds benefiting Shriners Children’s Hospital. Since 1974, nearly $4 million has been sent to Shriners Children’s thanks to the supporters of the Kansas Shrine Bowl. Shriners Children’s is a world-renowned healthcare system with hospitals, outpatient clinics, ambulatory care centers and outreach locations across the globe. Shriners Children’s is dedicated to improving the lives of children every day by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family-centered environment, regardless of the patients’ ability to pay.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 Plainville's McMillian selected to Shrine Bowl coaching staff

Thursday, December 12
 KKQY: Purple &amp;
Gold Tournament semifinals, 5:45pm

Friday, December 13
 KKQY: Purple &amp;
Gold Tournament Semifinals, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Junction City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Hill City, 5:40pm

Saturday, December 14
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
NC State, 12:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB at William Jewell, 12:30pm
 KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament Finals, 5:45pm

Sunday, December 15
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs at Cleveland Browns, 11:00am

Thursday, December 12
 KKQY: Purple &amp;
Gold Tournament semifinals, 5:45pmFriday, December 13
 KKQY: Purple &amp;
Gold Tournament Semifinals, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Junction City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Hill City, 5:40pmSaturday, December 14
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
NC State, 12:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB at William Jewell, 12:30pm
 KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament Finals, 5:45pmSunday, December 15
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs at Cleveland Browns, 11:00am

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board approved change orders for the Hays High School softball field on Monday night.

The board tabled change orders on the high school so they could speak about them further with representatives of its architectural firm, DLR Group.

The change orders for the softball field include a dugout similar to the HHS baseball fields. The dugouts were planned as chain link, and now they will be CMU dugouts with roofs.

&nbsp;Extra lanes for the bullpen and batting cages, electrical upgrades, and infrastructure for a grandstand and pressbox were also added.

Superintendent Ron Wilson said the administration plans to bring a plan to add the grandstand and pressbox to the field as a capital outlay project.

The changes will allow all of the softball players to practice at the same field.

The cost of the softball upgrades is $228,000. These funds will be taken from the Hays High School bond contingency fund and will not increase the overall budget for the Hays High project.

The other order, at a cost of $208,000, was for structural and finish changes identified as construction progressed.

These types of changes are very common on large construction projects, Wilson said. They account for a fraction of the project's total $100 million cost.

The change order cost will be paid from the contingency fund and will not increase the total cost of the Hays High School project.

The Hays High School project continues to be on schedule, and the school is set to open in August.

The Nabholz Construction representative said some plan revisions are only identified once construction begins. This can require minor modifications to the architectural drawings. A $1 million contingency fund has been built into the HHS project budget to allow for these anticipated changes.

Even with structural and softball change orders, more than half of that contingency fund will remain.

School board members questioned why any changes needed to be made and expressed frustration that the school district needed to pay for the change order.

The Nabholz representative said the number of change orders and design adjustments were consistent with a project of the high's shool's size. He said some of the changes were structurally important to complete the building.

Wilson, who has also been involved in two other bond-funded projects in his career, said change orders are to be expected, and the requested change orders align with the project's scope.

"This is a $100 million high school," he said. "You are thinking very small right now."

He said Nabholz, the district construction manager at risk, has 20 to 30 full-time staff managing all the project details.

"I don't think you are giving them enough credit," Wilson said.

Board member Jayme Goetz said she did not think the school district should have to foot the bill for the whole change order.

She said she thought DLR should be present to discuss the change order.

The Nabholz representative said there could be more change orders but added he thought most of the design change orders had been addressed.

The Hays High project is more than 55 percent complete, he said.

The high school change orders were tabled to be considered at a special meeting that would include representatives of DLR.

The softball field change orders were approved on a vote of 5-2, with board members Allen Park and Derek Yarmer voting against.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733947132041.png" alt="Conceptual drawing of Hays High School. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Conceptual drawing of Hays High School. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board approved change orders for the Hays High School softball field on Monday night.The board tabled change orders on the high school so they could speak about them further with representatives of its architectural firm, DLR Group.The change orders for the softball field include a dugout similar to the HHS baseball fields. The dugouts were planned as chain link, and now they will be CMU dugouts with roofs.&nbsp;Extra lanes for the bullpen and batting cages, electrical upgrades, and infrastructure for a grandstand and pressbox were also added.Superintendent Ron Wilson said the administration plans to bring a plan to add the grandstand and pressbox to the field as a capital outlay project.The changes will allow all of the softball players to practice at the same field.The cost of the softball upgrades is $228,000. These funds will be taken from the Hays High School bond contingency fund and will not increase the overall budget for the Hays High project.The other order, at a cost of $208,000, was for structural and finish changes identified as construction progressed.These types of changes are very common on large construction projects, Wilson said. They account for a fraction of the project's total $100 million cost.The change order cost will be paid from the contingency fund and will not increase the total cost of the Hays High School project.The Hays High School project continues to be on schedule, and the school is set to open in August.The Nabholz Construction representative said some plan revisions are only identified once construction begins. This can require minor modifications to the architectural drawings. A $1 million contingency fund has been built into the HHS project budget to allow for these anticipated changes.Even with structural and softball change orders, more than half of that contingency fund will remain.School board members questioned why any changes needed to be made and expressed frustration that the school district needed to pay for the change order.The Nabholz representative said the number of change orders and design adjustments were consistent with a project of the high's shool's size. He said some of the changes were structurally important to complete the building.Wilson, who has also been involved in two other bond-funded projects in his career, said change orders are to be expected, and the requested change orders align with the project's scope."This is a $100 million high school," he said. "You are thinking very small right now."He said Nabholz, the district construction manager at risk, has 20 to 30 full-time staff managing all the project details."I don't think you are giving them enough credit," Wilson said.Board member Jayme Goetz said she did not think the school district should have to foot the bill for the whole change order.She said she thought DLR should be present to discuss the change order.The Nabholz representative said there could be more change orders but added he thought most of the design change orders had been addressed.The Hays High project is more than 55 percent complete, he said.The high school change orders were tabled to be considered at a special meeting that would include representatives of DLR.The softball field change orders were approved on a vote of 5-2, with board members Allen Park and Derek Yarmer voting against.

Hays USD 489 BOE members hesitant about high school change orders

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">commencement ceremonies</a>&nbsp;will feature several students as musicians and speakers during the fall 2024 commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14

.• Kiran Elam, bachelor's candidate in agricultural economics,&nbsp;Beloit, will be the student commencement speaker for the College of Agriculture.

• Angela Cortes, bachelor's candidate in secondary education-English,&nbsp;Derby, will give the student commencement address for the College of Education.

• Brenton Wilden, bachelor's candidate in accounting and finance,&nbsp;Gardner, will present student remarks at the College of Business Administration's commencement ceremony.

• Devlyn Jochum, sophomore in music education,&nbsp;Hays, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.

• August Siefkes, sophomore in music business,&nbsp;Hudson, will be the organist at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.

• Joseph Fortino, senior in computer engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will be the organist for the College of Health and Human Sciences and the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.

• Jade Ratterman, bachelor's candidate in human development and family science,&nbsp;Olathe, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

• Morgan Woodsmall, bachelor's candidate in biomedical engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will give the student address at commencement for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.

• Keenan Lippert, junior in aeronautical technology,&nbsp;Sabetha, will give the student address and serve as student marshal at commencement for K-State Salina.

• Amaya Dungan, senior in music,&nbsp;Salina, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the Graduate School.

• Kalin Rowley, bachelor's candidate in human development and family sciences,&nbsp;Sedgwick, will give the student address at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.

• Josephine Benson, junior in English,&nbsp;Wamego, will be the organist at commencement for the Graduate School and the College of Agriculture.

• Anna Purvis, senior in vocal performance,&nbsp;Sand Springs, Oklahoma, will sing the national anthem and alma mater at the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences.

• Kenadee Hubbard, bachelor's candidate in agricultural communications and journalism,&nbsp;Friendswood, Texas, will present reflections at the College of Agriculture's commencement ceremony.

The following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:

• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.

• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina.

• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.

Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">k-state.edu/graduation</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712339218486.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedMANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">commencement ceremonies</a>&nbsp;will feature several students as musicians and speakers during the fall 2024 commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14.• Kiran Elam, bachelor's candidate in agricultural economics,&nbsp;Beloit, will be the student commencement speaker for the College of Agriculture.• Angela Cortes, bachelor's candidate in secondary education-English,&nbsp;Derby, will give the student commencement address for the College of Education.• Brenton Wilden, bachelor's candidate in accounting and finance,&nbsp;Gardner, will present student remarks at the College of Business Administration's commencement ceremony.• Devlyn Jochum, sophomore in music education,&nbsp;Hays, will sing the national anthem and the alma mater at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.• August Siefkes, sophomore in music business,&nbsp;Hudson, will be the organist at commencement for the College of Education and the College of Business Administration.• Joseph Fortino, senior in computer engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will be the organist for the College of Health and Human Sciences and the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.• Jade Ratterman, bachelor's candidate in human development and family science,&nbsp;Olathe, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.• Morgan Woodsmall, bachelor's candidate in biomedical engineering,&nbsp;Olathe, will give the student address at commencement for the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering.• Keenan Lippert, junior in aeronautical technology,&nbsp;Sabetha, will give the student address and serve as student marshal at commencement for K-State Salina.• Amaya Dungan, senior in music,&nbsp;Salina, will sing the national anthem at commencement for the Graduate School.• Kalin Rowley, bachelor's candidate in human development and family sciences,&nbsp;Sedgwick, will give the student address at commencement for the College of Health and Human Sciences.• Josephine Benson, junior in English,&nbsp;Wamego, will be the organist at commencement for the Graduate School and the College of Agriculture.• Anna Purvis, senior in vocal performance,&nbsp;Sand Springs, Oklahoma, will sing the national anthem and alma mater at the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences.• Kenadee Hubbard, bachelor's candidate in agricultural communications and journalism,&nbsp;Friendswood, Texas, will present reflections at the College of Agriculture's commencement ceremony.The following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:Dec. 13• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina.Dec. 14• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall.• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum.Additional information is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">k-state.edu/graduation</a>.

Area K-State students to serve as speakers, musicians at fall 2024 commencement

I can’t imagine living in early times without scientific knowledge regarding the year’s shortest day and longest night, aka winter solstice. Before easy access to candles, kerosene, and electricity, this was a worrisome season. Little besides faith the sun would return comforted the ancients through increasingly long nights.

The word solstice itself comes from the Latin solstitium. Sol meant sun and stitium--stoppage. According to the Family Education Network on the Internet, the winter solstice occurs either December 21 or 22. For several days before the solstices and for several days after, it appears that time stands still. In a world bombarded with more information than it can process, it oddly reassures me to imagine, that for a moment, the sun momentarily stands in place each June and December.

It must have comforted our ancestors also. Anthropologists have found evidence that many early societies developed means to mark equinoxes and solstices. Stonehenge is one well-known example. In North America, some experts theorize Native American medicine wheels peppering our landscape may have served a similar purpose. Though I don’t recommend building a Stonehenge or a medicine wheel in the backyard, much can be said for beginning one’s day before the sun rises and making time to watch those first rays break the horizon.

Kansans have experienced some spectacular sunrises since Thanksgiving. One morning it appeared that fingers of crimson fire tore away the darkness. Other mornings reveal themselves in pastel hues gently probing their way into the eastern sky. Making a point of spending time watching sunrises and taking note of when it happens puts life in perspective. I find myself hating to sleep in. I don’t want to miss what my dad called the crack o’ dawn or the day’s shifting shadows.

In the same vein, I find it soothing to note when the sun sets on this prairie landscape. Painters, photographers, and poets recognize and celebrate the power a fiery sunset or a rosy orb gradually fading into violet darkness holds over viewers. Keeping track of evolving shadows dropping into the West connects humans to forgotten rhythms.

For those who don’t want to or can’t watch the sun rise and set, computers make it easy to track earth’s rhythms. Anyone can note sunrise and sunset times on weather pages or by installing Weather Bug on a computer.

Solstices mark a reminding, a remembering of rhythms hearts know but minds forget. They remind us to believe in rebirth. They develop faith in the unknown. They tell us darkness will descend and lengthen, but, given time and patience, longer daylight will return.

It is not a coincidence we choose to celebrate religious and secular holidays with displays of light during this dark time of year. The beckoning warmth of Christmas lights and electric candles on windowsills reminds humanity that light overcomes darkness. Stop and be still, especially at sunrise and sunset, to mark this year’s winter solstice in Hays, KS, at 3:20 a.m., December 21. Remind yourself you come from a long line of ancestors who’ve shared this experience and been blessed to celebrate nature’s rhythms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733956896734.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORINI can’t imagine living in early times without scientific knowledge regarding the year’s shortest day and longest night, aka winter solstice. Before easy access to candles, kerosene, and electricity, this was a worrisome season. Little besides faith the sun would return comforted the ancients through increasingly long nights.The word solstice itself comes from the Latin solstitium. Sol meant sun and stitium--stoppage. According to the Family Education Network on the Internet, the winter solstice occurs either December 21 or 22. For several days before the solstices and for several days after, it appears that time stands still. In a world bombarded with more information than it can process, it oddly reassures me to imagine, that for a moment, the sun momentarily stands in place each June and December.It must have comforted our ancestors also. Anthropologists have found evidence that many early societies developed means to mark equinoxes and solstices. Stonehenge is one well-known example. In North America, some experts theorize Native American medicine wheels peppering our landscape may have served a similar purpose. Though I don’t recommend building a Stonehenge or a medicine wheel in the backyard, much can be said for beginning one’s day before the sun rises and making time to watch those first rays break the horizon.Kansans have experienced some spectacular sunrises since Thanksgiving. One morning it appeared that fingers of crimson fire tore away the darkness. Other mornings reveal themselves in pastel hues gently probing their way into the eastern sky. Making a point of spending time watching sunrises and taking note of when it happens puts life in perspective. I find myself hating to sleep in. I don’t want to miss what my dad called the crack o’ dawn or the day’s shifting shadows.In the same vein, I find it soothing to note when the sun sets on this prairie landscape. Painters, photographers, and poets recognize and celebrate the power a fiery sunset or a rosy orb gradually fading into violet darkness holds over viewers. Keeping track of evolving shadows dropping into the West connects humans to forgotten rhythms.For those who don’t want to or can’t watch the sun rise and set, computers make it easy to track earth’s rhythms. Anyone can note sunrise and sunset times on weather pages or by installing Weather Bug on a computer.Solstices mark a reminding, a remembering of rhythms hearts know but minds forget. They remind us to believe in rebirth. They develop faith in the unknown. They tell us darkness will descend and lengthen, but, given time and patience, longer daylight will return.It is not a coincidence we choose to celebrate religious and secular holidays with displays of light during this dark time of year. The beckoning warmth of Christmas lights and electric candles on windowsills reminds humanity that light overcomes darkness. Stop and be still, especially at sunrise and sunset, to mark this year’s winter solstice in Hays, KS, at 3:20 a.m., December 21. Remind yourself you come from a long line of ancestors who’ve shared this experience and been blessed to celebrate nature’s rhythms.

MADORIN: Marking winter solstice

Fort Hays State men's basketball opens MIAA play against Central Missouri on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays.

Fort Hays State men's basketball opens MIAA play against Central Missouri on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind: MBB vs. Central Missouri (December 5, 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=4fy38-1760942-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: FHSU Rewind-MBB vs. Central Missouri (Dec. 5, 2024)

We're joined by Fort Hays State women's wrestling coach Alijah Jeffery, women's basketball coach Talia Kahrs and men's basketball coach Mark Johnson.

We're joined by Fort Hays State women's wrestling coach Alijah Jeffery, women's basketball coach Talia Kahrs and men's basketball coach Mark Johnson.<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (December 11, 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=wuyi9-176a345-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: Tiger Talk (December 11, 2024)

Raeann Suppes, age 83, of Marshall, MO passed away Saturday,
December 7, 2024, at The Living Center, surrounded by family.&nbsp; She was born on June 6, 1941, in La Crosse,
KS, the daughter of Philip Sr. and Lidwina (Werth) Gottschalk.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday,
December 13, 2024, at St. Peter Catholic Church with Fr. Francis Doyle
officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the
service. Burial will be in Ridge Park Cemetery in Marshall. Memorials are
suggested to St. Peter Catholic Church, Altar and Rosary Society or Community
Food Pantry in care of Campbell-Lewis Funeral Home. Friends may sign the online
register book at www.campbell-lewis.com

Raeann grew up in Hays, KS and was a 1959 graduate of Girls
Catholic High School. Following graduation she attended Mount St. Scholastic in
Atchison, KS. On August 17, 1963, she married Charles Suppes in Hays, KS.&nbsp; They lived in Junction City, KS, Manhattan,
KS, and Springfield, MO, before moving to Marshall in 1969.&nbsp; She was employed at various banks prior to
her move to Missouri.&nbsp; After the birth of
her first child, raising her family was her main priority.&nbsp; She became involved in school activities, summer
sports, and scouting. &nbsp;She enjoyed
spending time with her family, cooking and baking, especially homemade pies,
and gardening in her younger years.&nbsp; 

She was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church and was
involved in Altar Rosary Society activities, helping clean the church and
making pies and desserts for various church functions.&nbsp; She also volunteered at the Community Food
Pantry during its early days of operation. She was a fan of Missouri and Kansas
State football and basketball, Royals baseball, and Chiefs football.&nbsp; Her greatest joy in life was taking care of,
praying for, and loving her family.

Survivors include her husband of 61 years, Charles; three
children, Kay Suppes of Kansas City, MO, Steve Suppes (Sheila) of Raymore, MO,
and Kim Dyer (Steve) of Higginsville, MO; six grandchildren: Kara Beldo, Andrew
Beldo, Matthew Suppes, Cale Suppes, Lynn Dyer, and Alex Dyer; and one great-granddaughter,
Paisley Suppes.

She was born the tenth child of fourteen and was the tenth
child to pass away with four brothers surviving: Donald, Leon, Fr. David, and
Andy Gottschalk (Lina). Additional survivors include two sisters-in-law, Nita
and Bernadette Gottschalk; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by
seven brothers, Fr. Andrew, Vernon, Ivan, Cecil, Floyd, Philip Jr., and Stephen
Gottschalk; and two sisters, Helen Legleiter and Sr. Donna Gottschalk. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The family would like to thank Dr. Herrmann and the entire
Living Center staff for their kind and compassionate care of Raeann during her
residency at the center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733934269518.jpeg" alt="Raeann Suppes" />
 <figcaption>Raeann Suppes</figcaption>
 </figure>Raeann Suppes, age 83, of Marshall, MO passed away Saturday,
December 7, 2024, at The Living Center, surrounded by family.&nbsp; She was born on June 6, 1941, in La Crosse,
KS, the daughter of Philip Sr. and Lidwina (Werth) Gottschalk.Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday,
December 13, 2024, at St. Peter Catholic Church with Fr. Francis Doyle
officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the
service. Burial will be in Ridge Park Cemetery in Marshall. Memorials are
suggested to St. Peter Catholic Church, Altar and Rosary Society or Community
Food Pantry in care of Campbell-Lewis Funeral Home. Friends may sign the online
register book at www.campbell-lewis.comRaeann grew up in Hays, KS and was a 1959 graduate of Girls
Catholic High School. Following graduation she attended Mount St. Scholastic in
Atchison, KS. On August 17, 1963, she married Charles Suppes in Hays, KS.&nbsp; They lived in Junction City, KS, Manhattan,
KS, and Springfield, MO, before moving to Marshall in 1969.&nbsp; She was employed at various banks prior to
her move to Missouri.&nbsp; After the birth of
her first child, raising her family was her main priority.&nbsp; She became involved in school activities, summer
sports, and scouting. &nbsp;She enjoyed
spending time with her family, cooking and baking, especially homemade pies,
and gardening in her younger years.&nbsp; She was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church and was
involved in Altar Rosary Society activities, helping clean the church and
making pies and desserts for various church functions.&nbsp; She also volunteered at the Community Food
Pantry during its early days of operation. She was a fan of Missouri and Kansas
State football and basketball, Royals baseball, and Chiefs football.&nbsp; Her greatest joy in life was taking care of,
praying for, and loving her family.Survivors include her husband of 61 years, Charles; three
children, Kay Suppes of Kansas City, MO, Steve Suppes (Sheila) of Raymore, MO,
and Kim Dyer (Steve) of Higginsville, MO; six grandchildren: Kara Beldo, Andrew
Beldo, Matthew Suppes, Cale Suppes, Lynn Dyer, and Alex Dyer; and one great-granddaughter,
Paisley Suppes.She was born the tenth child of fourteen and was the tenth
child to pass away with four brothers surviving: Donald, Leon, Fr. David, and
Andy Gottschalk (Lina). Additional survivors include two sisters-in-law, Nita
and Bernadette Gottschalk; and numerous nieces and nephews.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by
seven brothers, Fr. Andrew, Vernon, Ivan, Cecil, Floyd, Philip Jr., and Stephen
Gottschalk; and two sisters, Helen Legleiter and Sr. Donna Gottschalk. &nbsp;&nbsp;The family would like to thank Dr. Herrmann and the entire
Living Center staff for their kind and compassionate care of Raeann during her
residency at the center.

Raeann Suppes

Larry Way, 71, retired Construction Estimator and the
biggest K-State fan, died Sunday, December 8, 2024. 

Rosary will be at 7:00 pm, Thursday,
December 19, 2024, at Downing &amp; Lahey East Mortuary. Funeral Mass will be
at 10:00 am, Friday, December 20, 2024, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.


Preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Juanita Way. Survived by his wife,
Patty Way; daughter, Brandi Leigh Way; sisters, Debbie (Kenny) Englert, all of
Wichita, Donna Tison of Angleton, TX; brothers, Ross (Becky) Way, Warren
(Hether) Way, both of Wichita; grandchildren, Ryan and Tayton Antalek, Mallory
King; sister-in-law, Deb (Tom) Hoffman of Hays, KS. 

Memorials have been
established with: Holy Cross Charities, 1313 Stephen Dr., Hays, KS 67601;
University of Minnesota, Bob Allison Ataxia Research Center, P.O. Box 860266,
Minneapolis, MN 55486-0266. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733928446885.jpeg" alt="Larry Way" />
 <figcaption>Larry Way</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Way, 71, retired Construction Estimator and the
biggest K-State fan, died Sunday, December 8, 2024. Rosary will be at 7:00 pm, Thursday,
December 19, 2024, at Downing &amp; Lahey East Mortuary. Funeral Mass will be
at 10:00 am, Friday, December 20, 2024, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.
Preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Juanita Way. Survived by his wife,
Patty Way; daughter, Brandi Leigh Way; sisters, Debbie (Kenny) Englert, all of
Wichita, Donna Tison of Angleton, TX; brothers, Ross (Becky) Way, Warren
(Hether) Way, both of Wichita; grandchildren, Ryan and Tayton Antalek, Mallory
King; sister-in-law, Deb (Tom) Hoffman of Hays, KS. Memorials have been
established with: Holy Cross Charities, 1313 Stephen Dr., Hays, KS 67601;
University of Minnesota, Bob Allison Ataxia Research Center, P.O. Box 860266,
Minneapolis, MN 55486-0266. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com

Larry Way

Wednesday, December 11
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pm

Wednesday, December 11
 KAYS: Tiger Talk,
12:15pmThursday, December 12
 KKQY: Purple &amp;
Gold Tournament semifinals, 5:45pmFriday, December 13
 KKQY: Purple &amp;
Gold Tournament Semifinals, 5:15pm *
 KFIX: Hays High MWBKB vs. Junction City, 5:40pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian MWBKB at Hill City, 5:40pmSaturday, December 14
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB vs.
NC State, 12:30pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State MBKB at William Jewell, 12:30pm
 KKQY: Purple &amp; Gold Tournament Finals, 5:45pmSunday, December 15
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs at Cleveland Browns, 11:00am

HAYS - The Hays High wrestling team's hosted Garden City to open Western Athletic Conference action Tuesday at the Hays High gym. The Buffs came away win wins in both the boys and girls' duals.

BOYS: Garden City 57, Hays 24 106 - Cyler Luck def. Izaac Gonzalez by fall, 2:26 113 - Camden Luck lost to Braydon Pacheco by fall, 2:55 120 - Ethan Pfannenstiel lost to Matt Long by fall, 1:06 126 - Ethan Branaman lost to Adriel Sancez by fall, 1:41 132 - Grady Lind lost to Romeo Garcia by fall, 5:58 138 - Devin Quack lost to Brandon Moreno by fall, 1:32 144 - Cade Lind lost to Logan Avalon by fall, 0:25 150 - Gabriel Campbell lost to Saben Herrera by fall, 1:19 157 - Roberto Macias Gabriel Gurrola lost by fall, 0:41 165 - Brian Prough lost to Juan Ortiz by fall, 3:11 175 - Lane Geist lost to Evan Meza-McDermott by dec., 8-7 190 - Jonathan Rigler def. Dio Holguin, injury time 215 - Boston Brungardt lost to David Holguin by fall, 1:05 285 - Jacinto Carillo lost to Brayden Hill by fall, 0:23

GIRLS: Garden City 52, Hays 27 (Hays wrestlers listed first)

100 - Emersyn Cooper def. Kaylea Resendiz by fall, 0:24 105 - Chassidy Carlisle lost to Kaira Acosta by fall, 3:05 110 - Chlore Robben lost to Nicole Abrego by tech fall, 19-2 115 - Jacely Dolan lost to Marina Loeran by fall, 0:57 120 - Kenlee Vehige lost to Julissa Rodriguez by fall, 2:36 125 - Reese Vehige lost to Crystal Loera by fall, 5:27 130 - Ivana Wiesener lost to Maya Tarbet by fall, 1:12 135 - Addison Nueberger lost to Alyxia Serrano by tech fall, 16-0 140 - Ava Ruiz def. Oliva Dunlapo by dec., 4-2 145 - Timber Lovewell def. Jaslene Moncada by fall, 3:24 155 - Lexi Barnett def. Aaliyah Garza by fall, 3:57 170 - Audrey Gutierrez lost to Mary Condo by fall, 0:53 190 - Hays wins by forfeit 235 - Janessa Carillo lost to Maribel Hernandez won by fall, 1:57

Hays PostHAYS - The Hays High wrestling team's hosted Garden City to open Western Athletic Conference action Tuesday at the Hays High gym. The Buffs came away win wins in both the boys and girls' duals.BOYS: Garden City 57, Hays 24 106 - Cyler Luck def. Izaac Gonzalez by fall, 2:26 113 - Camden Luck lost to Braydon Pacheco by fall, 2:55 120 - Ethan Pfannenstiel lost to Matt Long by fall, 1:06 126 - Ethan Branaman lost to Adriel Sancez by fall, 1:41 132 - Grady Lind lost to Romeo Garcia by fall, 5:58 138 - Devin Quack lost to Brandon Moreno by fall, 1:32 144 - Cade Lind lost to Logan Avalon by fall, 0:25 150 - Gabriel Campbell lost to Saben Herrera by fall, 1:19 157 - Roberto Macias Gabriel Gurrola lost by fall, 0:41 165 - Brian Prough lost to Juan Ortiz by fall, 3:11 175 - Lane Geist lost to Evan Meza-McDermott by dec., 8-7 190 - Jonathan Rigler def. Dio Holguin, injury time 215 - Boston Brungardt lost to David Holguin by fall, 1:05 285 - Jacinto Carillo lost to Brayden Hill by fall, 0:23GIRLS: Garden City 52, Hays 27 (Hays wrestlers listed first)100 - Emersyn Cooper def. Kaylea Resendiz by fall, 0:24 105 - Chassidy Carlisle lost to Kaira Acosta by fall, 3:05 110 - Chlore Robben lost to Nicole Abrego by tech fall, 19-2 115 - Jacely Dolan lost to Marina Loeran by fall, 0:57 120 - Kenlee Vehige lost to Julissa Rodriguez by fall, 2:36 125 - Reese Vehige lost to Crystal Loera by fall, 5:27 130 - Ivana Wiesener lost to Maya Tarbet by fall, 1:12 135 - Addison Nueberger lost to Alyxia Serrano by tech fall, 16-0 140 - Ava Ruiz def. Oliva Dunlapo by dec., 4-2 145 - Timber Lovewell def. Jaslene Moncada by fall, 3:24 155 - Lexi Barnett def. Aaliyah Garza by fall, 3:57 170 - Audrey Gutierrez lost to Mary Condo by fall, 0:53 190 - Hays wins by forfeit 235 - Janessa Carillo lost to Maribel Hernandez won by fall, 1:57

🤼‍♂️🤼‍♀️ HHS is swept by Garden City in WAC opener

Ellis Police Chief Avery Smith said Wednesday morning that the student who made the threats had been referred for intake into the juvenile justice system. The case has been referred to the Ellis County Attorney.

Two angry parents appeared before the Ellis USD 388 school board meeting Monday after they said their son was targeted in a school threat on Thursday.

One of the parents, who is not being identified in this story to protect the identity of his children, said a junior high student threatened to shoot up the school and then specifically identified people he intended to target, including his son and another student.

The parent said the junior high student was temporarily removed from class but was sent back to class that day.

The parent said when his children informed him of the threats after they came home from school on Thursday, he called the police.

The parent said his children, including his son are afraid to go to school or school activities.

The parent said he kept his children home from school on Friday because of safety concerns.

The school released a statement on the incident on Monday night.&nbsp;

Last week, there was a threat made by a student at the Jr/Sr HS. We immediately began investigating. It was determined that this threat posed no danger to students or staff.

Keeping people safe requires that we follow emergency response procedures without fail, which includes quickly notifying the law enforcement agency and working with them to determine how to protect our students and staff.

As needed, we also must take proper disciplinary action for fair and consistent consequences.

Please understand that we cannot share any details about the student involved in this situation. This is the result of both confidentiality laws and our district’s commitment to respecting the privacy of students and their families.

We sincerely regret that our communication about the incident was delayed, falling short of informing and reassuring our staff and families about the safety measures that we followed. Please accept our apology for any additional worry or stress our omission may have caused you or your family.

Please take this opportunity to talk to your student about the importance of reporting anything unusual, even if it might be a joke or hoax. Remind them if they hear or see anything, they should tell you, share with a school employee or call the police.

The father whose son was threatened told the school board Monday he did not think the administration had done a good job in dealing with the student in question.

He said this student had been involved in multiple incidents since grade school.

The parent alleged the student had made a previous bomb threat against the school and had thrown chairs in the classroom at other students.

The parent also alleged the student had picked on other students.

"My kids are scared to go to school," the parent said. "They shouldn't be. You have not created a safe environment by letting one individual ruin it for 20 to 30 kids every day.&nbsp;

"I speak on behalf of a lot of people who are not here but who I talked to throughout the day. I can't say names, but we all feel the same way."

"We have been failed by every one of you," the parent said. "It's disturbing. There are warning signs there. If we don't do something about it now, we're going to be a statistic that makes nationwide news."

He said he did not want to change schools, adding that his children are the fourth generation to attend Ellis schools. However, he said he would send his children to another school unless the school district does something more to address this situation.

Board president Randy Honas told the parent he appreciated him expressing his thoughts.

"I just want you to understand that we will proceed as best we can as quickly as we can, following all the rules and regs we need to follow," Honas said.

The parent alleged that the student was receiving special treatment because he is in the special education program.

"I was told by two separate administrators that had it been a different kid who wasn't on a program, they would have been kicked out immediately. I find that to be very disturbing," the parent said.

The parent said the student in question showed up at the basketball game on Friday night. His son called and asked to be picked up from the game because he was scared of the student.

The parent said an administrator told him the student would be placed in out-of-school suspension. He later learned that the student had been placed in in-school suspension and was back at the school.

Honas said, "We will do our best to address some of the issues you brought up. Obviously, there are certain things we can and can't do. We will get there as quick as we can."

The school board held an executive session on Monday to discuss a student issue. The board president did not say if the session pertained to the student who made the threats, and the board did not take public action after the executive session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724351835621.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE 9 a.m. Dec. 11:&nbsp;Ellis Police Chief Avery Smith said Wednesday morning that the student who made the threats had been referred for intake into the juvenile justice system. The case has been referred to the Ellis County Attorney.----By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo angry parents appeared before the Ellis USD 388 school board meeting Monday after they said their son was targeted in a school threat on Thursday.One of the parents, who is not being identified in this story to protect the identity of his children, said a junior high student threatened to shoot up the school and then specifically identified people he intended to target, including his son and another student.The parent said the junior high student was temporarily removed from class but was sent back to class that day.The parent said when his children informed him of the threats after they came home from school on Thursday, he called the police.The parent said his children, including his son are afraid to go to school or school activities.The parent said he kept his children home from school on Friday because of safety concerns.The school released a statement on the incident on Monday night.&nbsp;That statement is below:Last week, there was a threat made by a student at the Jr/Sr HS. We immediately began investigating. It was determined that this threat posed no danger to students or staff.Keeping people safe requires that we follow emergency response procedures without fail, which includes quickly notifying the law enforcement agency and working with them to determine how to protect our students and staff.As needed, we also must take proper disciplinary action for fair and consistent consequences.Please understand that we cannot share any details about the student involved in this situation. This is the result of both confidentiality laws and our district’s commitment to respecting the privacy of students and their families.We sincerely regret that our communication about the incident was delayed, falling short of informing and reassuring our staff and families about the safety measures that we followed. Please accept our apology for any additional worry or stress our omission may have caused you or your family.Please take this opportunity to talk to your student about the importance of reporting anything unusual, even if it might be a joke or hoax. Remind them if they hear or see anything, they should tell you, share with a school employee or call the police.— Janice Wilson, superintendentThe father whose son was threatened told the school board Monday he did not think the administration had done a good job in dealing with the student in question.He said this student had been involved in multiple incidents since grade school.The parent alleged the student had made a previous bomb threat against the school and had thrown chairs in the classroom at other students.The parent also alleged the student had picked on other students."My kids are scared to go to school," the parent said. "They shouldn't be. You have not created a safe environment by letting one individual ruin it for 20 to 30 kids every day.&nbsp;"I speak on behalf of a lot of people who are not here but who I talked to throughout the day. I can't say names, but we all feel the same way.""We have been failed by every one of you," the parent said. "It's disturbing. There are warning signs there. If we don't do something about it now, we're going to be a statistic that makes nationwide news."He said he did not want to change schools, adding that his children are the fourth generation to attend Ellis schools. However, he said he would send his children to another school unless the school district does something more to address this situation.Board president Randy Honas told the parent he appreciated him expressing his thoughts."I just want you to understand that we will proceed as best we can as quickly as we can, following all the rules and regs we need to follow," Honas said.The parent alleged that the student was receiving special treatment because he is in the special education program."I was told by two separate administrators that had it been a different kid who wasn't on a program, they would have been kicked out immediately. I find that to be very disturbing," the parent said.The parent said the student in question showed up at the basketball game on Friday night. His son called and asked to be picked up from the game because he was scared of the student.The parent said an administrator told him the student would be placed in out-of-school suspension. He later learned that the student had been placed in in-school suspension and was back at the school.Honas said, "We will do our best to address some of the issues you brought up. Obviously, there are certain things we can and can't do. We will get there as quick as we can."The school board held an executive session on Monday to discuss a student issue. The board president did not say if the session pertained to the student who made the threats, and the board did not take public action after the executive session.

UPDATE: Parents concerned after Ellis USD 388 junior high student makes threats

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays Post

LIBERAL - Hays High continued their early season play with their first conference games of the season, traveling to Liberal on Tuesday

GIRLS: #8-5A Hays 77, #6-6A Liberal 50 Liberal was the first team to put Hays into a deficit scoring the first two points of the game on a pair of free throws. It was the only time the Indians trailed on their way to a 77-50 win. Hays scored the next eight points to lead 8-2. Liberal responded with five straight points but never took the lead.

The Indians went on a 15-2 first quarter run to push their advantage to 23-9 with two minutes left in the first quarter. Hays led 25-12 at the first quarter break then added the first two points of the second quarter to lead by 15.

Liberal slowly chipped away at the lead and closed within five before Hays led 38-31 at halftime.

Hays was never threatened in the second half outscoring Liberal by 20. A 12-2 third quarter run built the Indian advantage to 22 with 1:20 left. Hays led 59-42 after three quarter then outscored Liberal 18-8 in the fourth for the 77-50 win.

Zoe Winter led the Indians with a season high 13 points. Shamari Lewis led Liberal at 19 points.

The Indians are 4-0, 1-0. Liberal drops to 2-1, 0-1. Hays has won 12 straight Western Athletic Conference games. The 77 points is the most scored by Hays since 73 points in 2019.

Jenna Schmeidler 8; Annie Humphrey 3; Katie Linenberger 10; Molly Martin 9; Kenlee Winter 10; Morgan Armbruster 0; Jaysa Roa 3; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 5; Lynsi Kanak 8; Molly Buckles 9; Zoe Winter 13; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0.

BOYS: Hays 70, Liberal 34 Hays scored the first seven points of the game and never trailed on their way to a 70-34 win on the road over Liberal.

The Redskins never got closer than three at 7-4. A 10-3 run midway through first quarter put the Indians up 17-7 with a minute left in the quarter.

Hays led 19-8 after one quarter and scored the first four points of the second for a 23-8 advantage. The Indians led by 17 twice in the second quarter. The second time was 29-12 with 5:00 left before halftime. The Indians though didn't score for the next four minutes.&nbsp;

Their defense though gave up just five points in that same stretch. Hays led 36-20 at halftime after a 7-4 spurt to end the half.

By DUSTIN ARMBRUSTER Hays PostLIBERAL - Hays High continued their early season play with their first conference games of the season, traveling to Liberal on TuesdayGIRLS: #8-5A Hays 77, #6-6A Liberal 50 Liberal was the first team to put Hays into a deficit scoring the first two points of the game on a pair of free throws. It was the only time the Indians trailed on their way to a 77-50 win. Hays scored the next eight points to lead 8-2. Liberal responded with five straight points but never took the lead.The Indians went on a 15-2 first quarter run to push their advantage to 23-9 with two minutes left in the first quarter. Hays led 25-12 at the first quarter break then added the first two points of the second quarter to lead by 15.Liberal slowly chipped away at the lead and closed within five before Hays led 38-31 at halftime.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/1980059415&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/hhs-wbkb-highlights-vs-liberal-dec-10th-224" title="HHS WBKB Highlights Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 224)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS WBKB Highlights Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 224)</a></div></div>Hays was never threatened in the second half outscoring Liberal by 20. A 12-2 third quarter run built the Indian advantage to 22 with 1:20 left. Hays led 59-42 after three quarter then outscored Liberal 18-8 in the fourth for the 77-50 win.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/1980058387&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/len-melvin-postgame-interview-vs-liberal-dec-10th-24" title="Len Melvin Postgame Interview Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 24)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Len Melvin Postgame Interview Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 24)</a></div></div>Zoe Winter led the Indians with a season high 13 points. Shamari Lewis led Liberal at 19 points.The Indians are 4-0, 1-0. Liberal drops to 2-1, 0-1. Hays has won 12 straight Western Athletic Conference games. The 77 points is the most scored by Hays since 73 points in 2019.Jenna Schmeidler 8; Annie Humphrey 3; Katie Linenberger 10; Molly Martin 9; Kenlee Winter 10; Morgan Armbruster 0; Jaysa Roa 3; Kinslee Newell 0; Riley Dreher 5; Lynsi Kanak 8; Molly Buckles 9; Zoe Winter 13; Liz Cunningham 0; Rylen Harrington 0.BOYS: Hays 70, Liberal 34 Hays scored the first seven points of the game and never trailed on their way to a 70-34 win on the road over Liberal.The Redskins never got closer than three at 7-4. A 10-3 run midway through first quarter put the Indians up 17-7 with a minute left in the quarter.Hays led 19-8 after one quarter and scored the first four points of the second for a 23-8 advantage. The Indians led by 17 twice in the second quarter. The second time was 29-12 with 5:00 left before halftime. The Indians though didn't score for the next four minutes.&nbsp;Their defense though gave up just five points in that same stretch. Hays led 36-20 at halftime after a 7-4 spurt to end the half.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/1980062355&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/hhs-mbkb-highlights-vs-liberal-dec-10th-24" title="HHS MBKB Highlights Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 24)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">HHS MBKB Highlights Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 24)</a></div></div>Hays was never threatened in the second half. The Indians outscored Liberal 24-7 in the third quarter. They hit five of eight threes in that stretch.The continuous clock fourth quarter saw Hays empty their bench and win 70-34.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/1980062815&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/sean-drieiling-postgame-interview-vs-liberal-dec-10th-24" title="Sean Drieiling Postgame Interview Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 24)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Sean Drieiling Postgame Interview Vs Liberal (Dec 10th 24)</a></div></div>Hays was led by the 17 of Dawson Ruder who has scored in double figures in all four games. The Indians are 3-1, 1-0. Liberal drops to 1-2, 0-1.The Indians play at home on Friday against Junction City.Carter Lan 4; Johnny Cano 10; Trace Jacobs 6; Cooper Lindenmeyer 2; Brogan Albers 0; Trey Oakley 3; Tiger Johnson 14; Brody Harmoney 2; Izaac Fox 7; Noah Smalley 0; Brecken Otte 2; Dawson Ruder 17; Alex Loving 4.