LARNED -The TMP-Marian girls’ had four golfers place in the top-10 on their way to claiming that team title at Thursday's Larned Invitational at the at the Edwards Park Golf Course.

Brynn Schoepf and Jenna Brull both tied for third with rounds of 93. Emma Wasinger tied for eighth (106) and Ava Schumacher was 10th (113).

The Monarchs edged Hesston by three shots 405 to 408.

Hays Post SportsLARNED -The TMP-Marian girls’ had four golfers place in the top-10 on their way to claiming that team title at Thursday's Larned Invitational at the at the Edwards Park Golf Course.Brynn Schoepf and Jenna Brull both tied for third with rounds of 93. Emma Wasinger tied for eighth (106) and Ava Schumacher was 10th (113).The Monarchs edged Hesston by three shots 405 to 408.

⛳ Monarch girls win Larned tournament

Fort Hays State University defeated New Mexico Highlands with a dominant 7-0 victory at FHSU Soccer Stadium on Thursday afternoon. The Tigers scored their second most goals in a single match in program history. 

Fort Hays State dominated the first half, taking a 5-0 lead by halftime. Chaley French opened the scoring in the sixth minute with an assist off the crossbar from Sydney Cotter. French scored another goal five minutes later, assisted by Taylor Hill and Makenzie Hood. Cotter then found the net twice herself, in the 25th and 31st minutes, with Payton Porter and Megan Wiman contributing to the first of her goals. The second was a free kick just outside the 18. Berit Shores finished the first-half scoring in the 38th minute.

The Tigers extended their lead in the second half with goals from Saylor Richard Sydney Cotter, finishing with a 7-0 victory. Fort Hays managed a total of six shots in the second half, with Saylor Richard's goal coming in the 69th minute and Sydney Cotter scoring less than a minute later. Despite the Cowgirls' efforts, which included six shots in the second half, goalkeeper Hadley Ostrander maintained a clean sheet with one save.

Cotter tied two Fort Hays State single-match records with her performance. She matched the school record for goals in a match, becoming the fourth player in program history with a hat trick courtesy of her three goals. She is the first with a hat trick since Hannah Mares accomplished the feat against Southwestern College on September 2, 2023. She also tied the school record for points in a match with seven, joining Thalya Dwyer who had three goals and an assist in a win over Northwestern Oklahoma State on September 11, 2016, which was the game FHSU set it's single-game goal record, a 9-0 win. Chaley French had five shots in the match, nearly reaching a hat trick as well with some early opportunities.

At one point in the match, FHSU led the shot count 18-1, but the Cowgirls recorded six more shots late in the match.

Looking ahead, Fort Hays State begins MIAA play hosting Missouri Southern on Friday, September 26. The match is set for 7 p.m. at FHSU Soccer Stadium. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758276535062.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State University defeated New Mexico Highlands with a dominant 7-0 victory at FHSU Soccer Stadium on Thursday afternoon. The Tigers scored their second most goals in a single match in program history. Fort Hays State dominated the first half, taking a 5-0 lead by halftime. Chaley French opened the scoring in the sixth minute with an assist off the crossbar from Sydney Cotter. French scored another goal five minutes later, assisted by Taylor Hill and Makenzie Hood. Cotter then found the net twice herself, in the 25th and 31st minutes, with Payton Porter and Megan Wiman contributing to the first of her goals. The second was a free kick just outside the 18. Berit Shores finished the first-half scoring in the 38th minute.The Tigers extended their lead in the second half with goals from Saylor Richard Sydney Cotter, finishing with a 7-0 victory. Fort Hays managed a total of six shots in the second half, with Saylor Richard's goal coming in the 69th minute and Sydney Cotter scoring less than a minute later. Despite the Cowgirls' efforts, which included six shots in the second half, goalkeeper Hadley Ostrander maintained a clean sheet with one save.Cotter tied two Fort Hays State single-match records with her performance. She matched the school record for goals in a match, becoming the fourth player in program history with a hat trick courtesy of her three goals. She is the first with a hat trick since Hannah Mares accomplished the feat against Southwestern College on September 2, 2023. She also tied the school record for points in a match with seven, joining Thalya Dwyer who had three goals and an assist in a win over Northwestern Oklahoma State on September 11, 2016, which was the game FHSU set it's single-game goal record, a 9-0 win. Chaley French had five shots in the match, nearly reaching a hat trick as well with some early opportunities.At one point in the match, FHSU led the shot count 18-1, but the Cowgirls recorded six more shots late in the match.Looking ahead, Fort Hays State begins MIAA play hosting Missouri Southern on Friday, September 26. The match is set for 7 p.m. at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

⚽ Cotter’s hat trick highlights FHSU women's blowout win over Cowgirls

WAKEENEY - Ellis' Avery Boydston finished first and Taryn Boydston second in the 5000 meter race at the Trego Cross Country Invitational Thursday. Avery had a time of&nbsp;19:00.47 and Taryn&nbsp;19:09.59.

Plainville's Brilynn Trumpp finished third with a time of&nbsp;20:32.06.

Grace Schmeidler was the top TMP-Marian runner finishing in 30th place (25:32.55).

Ness City's Broxton Gall won the boys race (16:39.47). Quinter had the next three finishers.&nbsp;Carter Pennington was second (17:10.98),&nbsp;Elliot Churchwell third (17:19.67) and Kendrik Selensky fourth (17:21.53)

Mattias Marintzer led the TMP-Marian boys with a time of 18:35.53 and placed 16th.

Hoxie won the girls race, edging Ness City by one point.

Quinter won the boys race with 31 points, 11 better than Ness City.

Hays Post SportsWAKEENEY - Ellis' Avery Boydston finished first and Taryn Boydston second in the 5000 meter race at the Trego Cross Country Invitational Thursday. Avery had a time of&nbsp;19:00.47 and Taryn&nbsp;19:09.59.Plainville's Brilynn Trumpp finished third with a time of&nbsp;20:32.06.Grace Schmeidler was the top TMP-Marian runner finishing in 30th place (25:32.55).Ness City's Broxton Gall won the boys race (16:39.47). Quinter had the next three finishers.&nbsp;Carter Pennington was second (17:10.98),&nbsp;Elliot Churchwell third (17:19.67) and Kendrik Selensky fourth (17:21.53)Mattias Marintzer led the TMP-Marian boys with a time of 18:35.53 and placed 16th.Hoxie won the girls race, edging Ness City by one point.Quinter won the boys race with 31 points, 11 better than Ness City.

👟 Ellis' Boydston's lead the way at Trego Inviatational

HAYS - The Hays High boys and girls cross country teams both had two medalists at their own Hays High Invitational Thursday morning.

Avrie Branaman led the girls with a fifth place finish after a career best time of 21:10.&nbsp;Alexa Cooley also ran a career best 21:55 and placed ninth. 

The Indian girls also had season best performances from&nbsp;Aralen Maupin (22:46),&nbsp;Ava Biggs (22:55), Kiana Sun (22:32),&nbsp;Madelyn Wilkins (23:25),&nbsp;Kynli Koenigsman (24:39.0),&nbsp;Karlee Crispin (25:16.0) and&nbsp;Serena Wilson (23:37.0).

The boys were paced by&nbsp;Malachi Chance who finished 12th with a career best time of 18:07. Bladyn Werth posted a season-best time of 18:15 and placed 14th.

Jackson Huwa had a career best time of 18:39.&nbsp;Logan Leiker a season-best 19:00.&nbsp;Emmitt Dreiling ran a career best 19:14,&nbsp;Aiden Hardman a season best 19:40 and&nbsp;Brayden Staley ran a season best 21:24.

Garden City won the boys race with 21 points, easily outdistancing second place Dodge City. 

Dodge City was the girls champ with 43 points, three ahead of Norton.

Hays Post SportsHAYS - The Hays High boys and girls cross country teams both had two medalists at their own Hays High Invitational Thursday morning.Avrie Branaman led the girls with a fifth place finish after a career best time of 21:10.&nbsp;Alexa Cooley also ran a career best 21:55 and placed ninth. The Indian girls also had season best performances from&nbsp;Aralen Maupin (22:46),&nbsp;Ava Biggs (22:55), Kiana Sun (22:32),&nbsp;Madelyn Wilkins (23:25),&nbsp;Kynli Koenigsman (24:39.0),&nbsp;Karlee Crispin (25:16.0) and&nbsp;Serena Wilson (23:37.0).The boys were paced by&nbsp;Malachi Chance who finished 12th with a career best time of 18:07. Bladyn Werth posted a season-best time of 18:15 and placed 14th.Jackson Huwa had a career best time of 18:39.&nbsp;Logan Leiker a season-best 19:00.&nbsp;Emmitt Dreiling ran a career best 19:14,&nbsp;Aiden Hardman a season best 19:40 and&nbsp;Brayden Staley ran a season best 21:24.Garden City won the boys race with 21 points, easily outdistancing second place Dodge City. Dodge City was the girls champ with 43 points, three ahead of Norton.

👟 Good day for HHS at own cross country meet

Cecilia Ann Marhofer, beloved mother, educator, and
performer, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, at Cedar Village Long
Term Care in Ness City, Kansas, at the age of 87. Born on July 28, 1938, in
Hutchinson, Kansas, she was the cherished only child of Charles and Allene
(Riggs) Jones.

Cecilia grew up in Protection, Kansas where her life as an
only child sparked a vibrant imagination. A shy yet spirited young girl, she
dreamed of gracing Broadway stages, her heart always drawn to music, singing,
and dancing. While she helped in her father’s pharmacy, her true passion was
music – singing, dancing, and sharing her joy for the arts with others. Cecilia
graduated from Protection High School in 1956 and later earned a degree from
Bethany College, setting the stage for a remarkable career in music education.

Cecilia’s passion for music touched countless lives as she
taught in schools across Kansas, including Paradise, Russell, Kensington,
McCracken, LaCrosse.&nbsp; She concluded her
career in Ness City, where she retired in 1986 after six years of leading the
band program. Beyond the classroom, she shared her expertise through private
lessons in band and voice, served as a judge at Fort Hays State Band Camp and
the LaCrosse Music Festival, and inspired students with her boundless
enthusiasm. Her creativity extended to painting, and after retirement, she
traveled the world with her husband, Basil, through Rotary International.

Known for her warm humor and ability to light up any room,
Cecilia was an active member of PEO, where her storytelling and infectious
spirit left lasting impressions. Her life was a symphony of connection,
creativity, and joy.

In February 1962, Cecilia married her college sweetheart,
Thomas Lewand, in Protection, Kansas. Together, they taught and performed music
and raised their two children, Tara and Tony.&nbsp;
The couple later divorced. On September 5, 1987, Cecilia married Basil
Marhofer in Ness City, sharing many joyful years until his passing on September
6, 2017.

Cecilia is survived by her daughter, Tara Frey of Ellis,
Kansas; her son, Tony Lewand of Houston, Texas; two nieces, Janet Clark and
Cheryl (Larry) Thomas; and many extended family members. She was preceded in
death by her parents, Charles and Allene Jones; her husband, Basil Marhofer;
and her son-in-law, Charles Frey.

A funeral service to celebrate Cecilia’s life will be held
on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Ness City Methodist Church,
followed by burial at Ness City Cemetery.

Friends and family are invited to a viewing at Fitzgerald
Funeral Home on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with
the family present from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Memorials donations may be made to the Angel Fund at
Heartland Veterinarian Clinic in Ness City.

The family welcomes memories and words of support in the
guest book, where Cecilia’s legacy of music and love will live on.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758218730476.jpeg" alt="Cecilia Ann Marhofer" />
 <figcaption>Cecilia Ann Marhofer</figcaption>
 </figure>Cecilia Ann Marhofer, beloved mother, educator, and
performer, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, at Cedar Village Long
Term Care in Ness City, Kansas, at the age of 87. Born on July 28, 1938, in
Hutchinson, Kansas, she was the cherished only child of Charles and Allene
(Riggs) Jones.Cecilia grew up in Protection, Kansas where her life as an
only child sparked a vibrant imagination. A shy yet spirited young girl, she
dreamed of gracing Broadway stages, her heart always drawn to music, singing,
and dancing. While she helped in her father’s pharmacy, her true passion was
music – singing, dancing, and sharing her joy for the arts with others. Cecilia
graduated from Protection High School in 1956 and later earned a degree from
Bethany College, setting the stage for a remarkable career in music education.Cecilia’s passion for music touched countless lives as she
taught in schools across Kansas, including Paradise, Russell, Kensington,
McCracken, LaCrosse.&nbsp; She concluded her
career in Ness City, where she retired in 1986 after six years of leading the
band program. Beyond the classroom, she shared her expertise through private
lessons in band and voice, served as a judge at Fort Hays State Band Camp and
the LaCrosse Music Festival, and inspired students with her boundless
enthusiasm. Her creativity extended to painting, and after retirement, she
traveled the world with her husband, Basil, through Rotary International.Known for her warm humor and ability to light up any room,
Cecilia was an active member of PEO, where her storytelling and infectious
spirit left lasting impressions. Her life was a symphony of connection,
creativity, and joy.In February 1962, Cecilia married her college sweetheart,
Thomas Lewand, in Protection, Kansas. Together, they taught and performed music
and raised their two children, Tara and Tony.&nbsp;
The couple later divorced. On September 5, 1987, Cecilia married Basil
Marhofer in Ness City, sharing many joyful years until his passing on September
6, 2017.Cecilia is survived by her daughter, Tara Frey of Ellis,
Kansas; her son, Tony Lewand of Houston, Texas; two nieces, Janet Clark and
Cheryl (Larry) Thomas; and many extended family members. She was preceded in
death by her parents, Charles and Allene Jones; her husband, Basil Marhofer;
and her son-in-law, Charles Frey.A funeral service to celebrate Cecilia’s life will be held
on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Ness City Methodist Church,
followed by burial at Ness City Cemetery.Friends and family are invited to a viewing at Fitzgerald
Funeral Home on Sunday, September 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with
the family present from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Memorials donations may be made to the Angel Fund at
Heartland Veterinarian Clinic in Ness City.The family welcomes memories and words of support in the
guest book, where Cecilia’s legacy of music and love will live on.

Cecilia Ann Marhofer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758209655088.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hays Area Children's Center

Tasty fundraiser for Hays Area Children's Center; order by Sept. 24

Rodney John “Rod”
Steckel, 76, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025 at the
Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.

Rod was born August
20, 1949 in Russell, Kansas to Clarence J. and Irene M. (Thielen) Steckel.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and graduated from
Russell High School in the Class of 1968.

Rod was united in
marriage to Pam Weeks on July 2, 1971.&nbsp;
This union was blessed with three children; Heather, Jerod and
Crystal.&nbsp; Later he was united in marriage
to Galene Brown on November 3, 1991.&nbsp;
With this union, he gained two children; Nicole and Nathan.

In Rod’s younger
years, he was a rancher and custom harvester. He enjoyed off-road and drag
racing. In later years, Rod farmed and owned and operated Steckel Trucking. He
always had a love for firearms and shooting. He competed in everything from
3-gun competitions to trap shooting. He passed on his knowledge to Fort Hays
State University criminal justice students as a shooting instructor. He was
extremely proud to be a member of Team Kansas, a group dedicated to the mastery
of firearms. Their motto: “This Ain’t Dodge City &amp; You Ain’t Bill Hickock!”
Rod dedicated many years as a Reserve deputy with the Russell County Sheriff’s
Office and was named Russell County Volunteer of the Year in 2007. He was a
lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rod was described as kind,
respectful, and fun-loving. Many will remember good times with Rod, some
stories well-known and others best left untold. 

Surviving family
include his four children, Heather Steckel of Russell, Kansas, Jerod Steckel
(Marcia) of Russell, Kansas, Crystal Miner (Dan) of Russell, Kansas and Nicole
Barrera of Russell, Kansas; 18 grandchildren, Cole Bilbrey, Sydnie Nickerson,
Shaelynn Ringer, Trey Bitter, Macey Steckel, Jasper DeWitte, Hailey Geir,
Caleigh Befort, Isabelle Kraus, Wilson Miner, Ansen Miner, Jaylynn Walton,
Jensen Miner, Ally Ochampaugh, Regan Betts, Daryss Barrera, Ashtyn Barrera and
Madison Veleta; and nine great grandchildren.

Rod was preceded in
death by his parents; son, Nathan Peterka; and son-in-law, Greg Bitter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758146664267.jpeg" alt="Rodney John 'Rod' Steckel" />
 <figcaption>Rodney John 'Rod' Steckel</figcaption>
 </figure>Rodney John “Rod”
Steckel, 76, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025 at the
Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas.Rod was born August
20, 1949 in Russell, Kansas to Clarence J. and Irene M. (Thielen) Steckel.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and graduated from
Russell High School in the Class of 1968.Rod was united in
marriage to Pam Weeks on July 2, 1971.&nbsp;
This union was blessed with three children; Heather, Jerod and
Crystal.&nbsp; Later he was united in marriage
to Galene Brown on November 3, 1991.&nbsp;
With this union, he gained two children; Nicole and Nathan.In Rod’s younger
years, he was a rancher and custom harvester. He enjoyed off-road and drag
racing. In later years, Rod farmed and owned and operated Steckel Trucking. He
always had a love for firearms and shooting. He competed in everything from
3-gun competitions to trap shooting. He passed on his knowledge to Fort Hays
State University criminal justice students as a shooting instructor. He was
extremely proud to be a member of Team Kansas, a group dedicated to the mastery
of firearms. Their motto: “This Ain’t Dodge City &amp; You Ain’t Bill Hickock!”
Rod dedicated many years as a Reserve deputy with the Russell County Sheriff’s
Office and was named Russell County Volunteer of the Year in 2007. He was a
lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rod was described as kind,
respectful, and fun-loving. Many will remember good times with Rod, some
stories well-known and others best left untold. Surviving family
include his four children, Heather Steckel of Russell, Kansas, Jerod Steckel
(Marcia) of Russell, Kansas, Crystal Miner (Dan) of Russell, Kansas and Nicole
Barrera of Russell, Kansas; 18 grandchildren, Cole Bilbrey, Sydnie Nickerson,
Shaelynn Ringer, Trey Bitter, Macey Steckel, Jasper DeWitte, Hailey Geir,
Caleigh Befort, Isabelle Kraus, Wilson Miner, Ansen Miner, Jaylynn Walton,
Jensen Miner, Ally Ochampaugh, Regan Betts, Daryss Barrera, Ashtyn Barrera and
Madison Veleta; and nine great grandchildren.Rod was preceded in
death by his parents; son, Nathan Peterka; and son-in-law, Greg Bitter.

Rodney John 'Rod' Steckel

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Nancy Jeter of Women Who Lead about the Out of Darkness suicide prevention walk and other projects on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast - Women Who Lead" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=gx5f6-1968f53-pb&square=1&share=1&d… loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697043311841.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Nancy Jeter of Women Who Lead about the Out of Darkness suicide prevention walk and other projects on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: Women Who Lead, Out of Darkness walk

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Thursday, September 18
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pm

Friday, September 19
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 6:00pm
 KKQY: Ellis FB at Hoxie, 6:00pm
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Manhattan, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Phillipsburg, 6:30pm

Saturday, September 20
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
FB at Pittsburg State, 3:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. West Virginia, 3:30pm

Sunday, September 21
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 12:30pm
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB at New York Giants, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Thursday, September 18
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pmFriday, September 19
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 6:00pm
 KKQY: Ellis FB at Hoxie, 6:00pm
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Manhattan, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Phillipsburg, 6:30pmSaturday, September 20
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
FB at Pittsburg State, 3:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. West Virginia, 3:30pmSunday, September 21
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 12:30pm
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB at New York Giants, 6:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

Fort Hays State University’s new hybrid pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program opened its inaugural semester this fall, welcoming its first cohort of 10 students.

The program offers a flexible combination of online and face-to-face learning experiences, with theory-based courses delivered online and synchronous class sessions allowing for real-time interaction with instructors and classmates. Lab and clinical experiences are bundled together, enabling students to make fewer trips to Hays while still receiving hands-on training.

“We are excited to offer this type of nursing education to students who are place-bound due to either work or family commitments,” said Tanya Smith, assistant chair of FHSU’s nursing department. “While the program maintains its quality and rigor, having the ability to complete the coursework required on the student’s time schedule instead of a structured schedule has been beneficial to the students in this program.”

For many students, this format provides an accessible path to a nursing degree while balancing life’s many responsibilities.

“This program allows me to work my 8-5 job and still have time to do homework after, versus being on campus all day and having to find an evening job,” said Gabrielle De Waal, an LPN at a clinic in Hays who is also planning a spring wedding. “It definitely is more flexible.”

Angelica Garcia, another member of the inaugural cohort, said the program allows her to focus on raising her son at home.

“I would rather raise my boy with my husband and avoid daycare,” she said. “Everything I would make would go straight to daycare. It’s just so expensive.”

Other students shared how the program’s structure fits into their busy lives:

• Andrea Hensley, Overland Park, a mother of three who also works two jobs, said she applied after hearing about the program through a client at her spa. “If I get in, I’m doing it,” she recalled telling her husband. “And here I am.” • Janine Van Niekerk, Arapahoe, Neb., a mother of six, called the program “a blessing,” adding, “I previously looked into a traditional BSN, but I couldn’t commit to five days a week. Online is easier to manage.”

During the fall semester, hybrid students spend three to four days on campus and two to three days in a senior living community, with the remainder of coursework online. While students say online learning requires discipline and self-motivation, they also praised the accessibility and responsiveness of their instructors.

Dr. Jenny Manry, chair of the Department of Nursing, said she is ecstatic about the hybrid program.

“We are excited that this program will benefit students and their local communities,” she said. “By educating students in place, we will impact the healthcare in the communities where they reside.”

Admission to the hybrid program occurs once per year, beginning each fall. The application deadline is Feb. 1, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the cohort is filled.

For more information or to apply, contact: Dr. Tanya Smith, Coordinator of the BSN Program Email:&nbsp;tlsmith17@fhsu.edu

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758047545669.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University’s new hybrid pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program opened this semester, welcoming its first cohort of 10 students. Photo by FHSU" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University’s new hybrid pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program opened this semester, welcoming its first cohort of 10 students. Photo by FHSU</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s new hybrid pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program opened its inaugural semester this fall, welcoming its first cohort of 10 students.The program offers a flexible combination of online and face-to-face learning experiences, with theory-based courses delivered online and synchronous class sessions allowing for real-time interaction with instructors and classmates. Lab and clinical experiences are bundled together, enabling students to make fewer trips to Hays while still receiving hands-on training.“We are excited to offer this type of nursing education to students who are place-bound due to either work or family commitments,” said Tanya Smith, assistant chair of FHSU’s nursing department. “While the program maintains its quality and rigor, having the ability to complete the coursework required on the student’s time schedule instead of a structured schedule has been beneficial to the students in this program.”For many students, this format provides an accessible path to a nursing degree while balancing life’s many responsibilities.“This program allows me to work my 8-5 job and still have time to do homework after, versus being on campus all day and having to find an evening job,” said Gabrielle De Waal, an LPN at a clinic in Hays who is also planning a spring wedding. “It definitely is more flexible.”Angelica Garcia, another member of the inaugural cohort, said the program allows her to focus on raising her son at home.“I would rather raise my boy with my husband and avoid daycare,” she said. “Everything I would make would go straight to daycare. It’s just so expensive.”Other students shared how the program’s structure fits into their busy lives:• Andrea Hensley, Overland Park, a mother of three who also works two jobs, said she applied after hearing about the program through a client at her spa. “If I get in, I’m doing it,” she recalled telling her husband. “And here I am.” • Janine Van Niekerk, Arapahoe, Neb., a mother of six, called the program “a blessing,” adding, “I previously looked into a traditional BSN, but I couldn’t commit to five days a week. Online is easier to manage.”During the fall semester, hybrid students spend three to four days on campus and two to three days in a senior living community, with the remainder of coursework online. While students say online learning requires discipline and self-motivation, they also praised the accessibility and responsiveness of their instructors.Dr. Jenny Manry, chair of the Department of Nursing, said she is ecstatic about the hybrid program.“We are excited that this program will benefit students and their local communities,” she said. “By educating students in place, we will impact the healthcare in the communities where they reside.”Admission to the hybrid program occurs once per year, beginning each fall. The application deadline is Feb. 1, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the cohort is filled.For more information or to apply, contact: Dr. Tanya Smith, Coordinator of the BSN Program Email:&nbsp;tlsmith17@fhsu.edu

FHSU launches hybrid nursing program with first cohort of students

Heartland Community Foundation

The Heartland Community Foundation, dedicated to supporting Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties, is excited to announce the opening of its fall grant cycle. Applications can be submitted online until 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025. A total of over $150,000 in funding is available.

This grant cycle aims to support local initiatives that fulfill one or more of the following goals:

• Directly benefiting communities in Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties. • Enhancing the quality of life for individuals and expanding the capacity or outreach of applying organizations through programs, projects, or capital improvements. • Providing seed funding to kickstart new projects, programs, or organizations that will serve the community

Funding this cycle is made possible by the Legacy Funds of Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties, along with contributions from the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund, the Heartland Healthy Living Fund, and the Heartland Area Action Fund. 

Two new funds will also be making their first grant distributions this fall: the Hays Optimist Friends of Youth Fund will support projects that benefit youth or are youth-led, while the Trego County Enhancement Fund will support projects that promote economic development in Trego County.

Eligible projects must be based in Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties and will undergo a competitive evaluation process. Nonprofit organizations, government entities, educational institutions, and churches are all encouraged to apply. All applications must be submitted online by the deadline&nbsp;of 11:59 p.m. on November 15. Detailed funding criteria and the application form can be found at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants/">https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants/</a>

For further inquiries, please reach out to Sarah Meitner, executive director, at 785-621-4090, Savannah Downing, Trego Development Director, at 785-743-3270, or Deanna Hammerschmidt, Rooks Development Director, at 785-688-5098.

You can easily make a charitable gift by clicking the GIVE ONLINE button.

To learn more about the Heartland Community Foundation, make a donation to one of our managed funds, or apply for a grant, please visit <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.&nbsp;

Stay updated on our latest news, grantee stories, and featured funds by following us on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandCF">https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandCF</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758042178015.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Heartland Community Foundation The Heartland Community Foundation, dedicated to supporting Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties, is excited to announce the opening of its fall grant cycle. Applications can be submitted online until 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025. A total of over $150,000 in funding is available.This grant cycle aims to support local initiatives that fulfill one or more of the following goals:• Directly benefiting communities in Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties. • Enhancing the quality of life for individuals and expanding the capacity or outreach of applying organizations through programs, projects, or capital improvements. • Providing seed funding to kickstart new projects, programs, or organizations that will serve the communityFunding this cycle is made possible by the Legacy Funds of Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties, along with contributions from the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund, the Heartland Healthy Living Fund, and the Heartland Area Action Fund. Two new funds will also be making their first grant distributions this fall: the Hays Optimist Friends of Youth Fund will support projects that benefit youth or are youth-led, while the Trego County Enhancement Fund will support projects that promote economic development in Trego County.Eligible projects must be based in Ellis, Rooks, or Trego counties and will undergo a competitive evaluation process. Nonprofit organizations, government entities, educational institutions, and churches are all encouraged to apply. All applications must be submitted online by the deadline&nbsp;of 11:59 p.m. on November 15. Detailed funding criteria and the application form can be found at <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants/">https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/grants/</a>For further inquiries, please reach out to Sarah Meitner, executive director, at 785-621-4090, Savannah Downing, Trego Development Director, at 785-743-3270, or Deanna Hammerschmidt, Rooks Development Director, at 785-688-5098.You can easily make a charitable gift by clicking the GIVE ONLINE button.To learn more about the Heartland Community Foundation, make a donation to one of our managed funds, or apply for a grant, please visit <a href="https://heartlandcommunityfoundation.org/">www.heartlandcommunityfoundation.org</a>.&nbsp;Stay updated on our latest news, grantee stories, and featured funds by following us on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandCF">https://www.facebook.com/HeartlandCF</a>.

Heartland Community Foundation accepting grant applications through Nov. 15

By KAREN MADORIN Hays Post

My Grandma marveled at changes she experienced starting with her birth in 1909. She lived through WW I and II, Korea, and Viet Nam. During childhood, she saw her home electrified and plumbed. When her family got a wall phone, they marveled. She talked about their first motorized vehicle and the joy of riding in airconditioned comfort decades later. Refrigeration changed cooking practices as did the advent of gas and electric stoves. She didn’t have a TV til the 60s, but she appreciated watching Walter Cronkite deliver news. Saturday night was not complete til she enjoyed Lawrence Welk before she studied the next day’s Sunday school lesson. Colorization improved Lawrence. She loved his co-stars’ bright dresses and suits.

I relished her childhood stories. From her dad driving a steam engine through Colorado mountains to tales of horse drawn carriages and wagons, they fascinated me. She described her mom’s delicious meals cooked on a wood stove, bathing in stove-heated water in a tin tub, and scrubbing laundry in it as well. She had one of her family’s kerosene lanterns, and I could imagine her lighting it as darkness descended. While she made it sound cozy, she let me know she appreciated modern improvements like electricity, air conditioners and forced air furnaces, hot and cold running water, washing machines and dryers, and her programmable oven that began baking before she came home for lunch.

What she saw as miracles, I take for granted. However, she didn’t live long enough for smart phones to not only connect her to the world but also deliver information at a touch and track appointments or provide weather warnings. On the other hand, she didn’t have to figure out what to do when it, her computer, or her Smart TV didn’t work.

Those issues aggravate us as we age. As digital immigrants who used computers for work, both of us feel like travelers in foreign territory when they don’t perform. While we appreciate advantages technology offers, we find ourselves in stress city when it doesn’t work.

Recently, we faced repeated challenges starting when our Fire Stick quit. We discovered we&nbsp;

didn’t have a business in town to call for onsite help after we failed to properly install that device Thank goodness, a savvy neighbor walked us through the step we’d missed and reconnected us to favorite programs.

Not long after we got the TV operating, our 4-year-old phone decided to go geriatric and prevent us from hearing incoming callers. Off to a treasured phone company employee to update phones. That went fine until a glitch in the I Phone program prevented us from getting texts and emails. Who knew how dependent we’d become on instant communication. It took our patient and tenacious tech 3 days to connect all the dots so our new phones performed properly. She had 10 years of trouble shooting under her belt that allowed her to solve the problem. We couldn’t begin to figure out what to do.

In addition to recruiting electricians, plumbers, carpenters, carpet layers, and car mechanics, communities need to encourage local tech wizards to stay in town. For a while yet, a generation of digital immigrants with limited vocabulary wander a foreign land needing professional guidance.

We haven’t seen the change my grandma did, but we’ve experienced enough we need expert direction with current technology. Tech Wizards, open a consulting business in your hometown. Customers await!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758135894941.jpeg" alt="Rufus Wilson, Aunt Millie's husband, selling Baker's patent Medicine. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rufus Wilson, Aunt Millie's husband, selling Baker's patent Medicine. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN MADORIN Hays PostMy Grandma marveled at changes she experienced starting with her birth in 1909. She lived through WW I and II, Korea, and Viet Nam. During childhood, she saw her home electrified and plumbed. When her family got a wall phone, they marveled. She talked about their first motorized vehicle and the joy of riding in airconditioned comfort decades later. Refrigeration changed cooking practices as did the advent of gas and electric stoves. She didn’t have a TV til the 60s, but she appreciated watching Walter Cronkite deliver news. Saturday night was not complete til she enjoyed Lawrence Welk before she studied the next day’s Sunday school lesson. Colorization improved Lawrence. She loved his co-stars’ bright dresses and suits.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658158626307.png" alt="Karen Madorin" />
 <figcaption>Karen Madorin</figcaption>
 </figure>I relished her childhood stories. From her dad driving a steam engine through Colorado mountains to tales of horse drawn carriages and wagons, they fascinated me. She described her mom’s delicious meals cooked on a wood stove, bathing in stove-heated water in a tin tub, and scrubbing laundry in it as well. She had one of her family’s kerosene lanterns, and I could imagine her lighting it as darkness descended. While she made it sound cozy, she let me know she appreciated modern improvements like electricity, air conditioners and forced air furnaces, hot and cold running water, washing machines and dryers, and her programmable oven that began baking before she came home for lunch.What she saw as miracles, I take for granted. However, she didn’t live long enough for smart phones to not only connect her to the world but also deliver information at a touch and track appointments or provide weather warnings. On the other hand, she didn’t have to figure out what to do when it, her computer, or her Smart TV didn’t work.Those issues aggravate us as we age. As digital immigrants who used computers for work, both of us feel like travelers in foreign territory when they don’t perform. While we appreciate advantages technology offers, we find ourselves in stress city when it doesn’t work.Recently, we faced repeated challenges starting when our Fire Stick quit. We discovered we&nbsp;didn’t have a business in town to call for onsite help after we failed to properly install that device Thank goodness, a savvy neighbor walked us through the step we’d missed and reconnected us to favorite programs.Not long after we got the TV operating, our 4-year-old phone decided to go geriatric and prevent us from hearing incoming callers. Off to a treasured phone company employee to update phones. That went fine until a glitch in the I Phone program prevented us from getting texts and emails. Who knew how dependent we’d become on instant communication. It took our patient and tenacious tech 3 days to connect all the dots so our new phones performed properly. She had 10 years of trouble shooting under her belt that allowed her to solve the problem. We couldn’t begin to figure out what to do.In addition to recruiting electricians, plumbers, carpenters, carpet layers, and car mechanics, communities need to encourage local tech wizards to stay in town. For a while yet, a generation of digital immigrants with limited vocabulary wander a foreign land needing professional guidance.We haven’t seen the change my grandma did, but we’ve experienced enough we need expert direction with current technology. Tech Wizards, open a consulting business in your hometown. Customers await!

MADORIN: The times—they are a’changing

First Care Clinic, Inc. is excited to welcome Ashley Alonso, nurse practitioner, to our dedicated medical team. Ashley will be seeing patients at First Care Clinic Express Care, located at 1301 Main Street in Hays, where she will treat patients with acute, non-emergency issues such as minor illnesses, infections, and injuries.

Ashley brings experience in family medicine and urgent care, and a passion for providing high-quality, patient-centered care. She earned her master of science degree with a family nurse practitioner concentration from the University of Central Missouri.

First Care Clinic CEO Eric Flax stated, “We are very excited to have Ashley join our clinic! As someone who grew up in Hays, her decision to return home and care for this community speaks volumes about her character and dedication. We are fortunate to have her on our team.”

“We are proud to welcome Ashley to our Express Care team,” said Medical Director Dr. Christine Fisher. “Express Care is an important resource for our patients who need quick access to treatment for unexpected illnesses and minor injuries. Ashley’s knowledge and compassion will help us continue to deliver the high-quality, timely care that our community depends on.”

Express Care is located at the corner of 13th and Main, in Hays. Operating hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. To schedule, patients can call First Care Clinic at 785-621-4990.

First Care Clinic accepts all major insurances, and a sliding fee scale discount is available to those who qualify.

ABOUT FIRST CARE CLINIC, INC.

First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, with over ninety employees across their three locations in Hays, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. They provide family medicine, express care, pharmaceutical, behavioral health, and family dentistry services.

First Care Clinic welcomes all patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is also available to those who qualify. Patients can request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic a 785-621-4990.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758048171797.jpeg" alt="Ashley Alonso. Photo courtesy First Care Clinic" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Alonso. Photo courtesy First Care Clinic</figcaption>
 </figure>First Care ClinicFirst Care Clinic, Inc. is excited to welcome Ashley Alonso, nurse practitioner, to our dedicated medical team. Ashley will be seeing patients at First Care Clinic Express Care, located at 1301 Main Street in Hays, where she will treat patients with acute, non-emergency issues such as minor illnesses, infections, and injuries.Ashley brings experience in family medicine and urgent care, and a passion for providing high-quality, patient-centered care. She earned her master of science degree with a family nurse practitioner concentration from the University of Central Missouri.First Care Clinic CEO Eric Flax stated, “We are very excited to have Ashley join our clinic! As someone who grew up in Hays, her decision to return home and care for this community speaks volumes about her character and dedication. We are fortunate to have her on our team.”“We are proud to welcome Ashley to our Express Care team,” said Medical Director Dr. Christine Fisher. “Express Care is an important resource for our patients who need quick access to treatment for unexpected illnesses and minor injuries. Ashley’s knowledge and compassion will help us continue to deliver the high-quality, timely care that our community depends on.”Express Care is located at the corner of 13th and Main, in Hays. Operating hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. To schedule, patients can call First Care Clinic at 785-621-4990.First Care Clinic accepts all major insurances, and a sliding fee scale discount is available to those who qualify.ABOUT FIRST CARE CLINIC, INC.First Care Clinic is a federally qualified health center, with over ninety employees across their three locations in Hays, providing services for people of all ages, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. They provide family medicine, express care, pharmaceutical, behavioral health, and family dentistry services.First Care Clinic welcomes all patients and accepts all major insurances. A sliding fee scale discount is also available to those who qualify. Patients can request an appointment at firstcareclinic.com or by calling First Care Clinic a 785-621-4990.

⚽ HHS blanks Great Bend in WAC opener

Larry Connor, born Joseph Larry, lifelong resident of
WaKeeney, Kansas, met his Lord on September 15, 2025. Larry was born in Hays,
Kansas, on July 6, 1933. He graduated from Trego Community High School and
continued on to Kansas State University, where he majored in Agriculture.
Following college, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, staying
prepared for a potential Russian invasion during the Cold War. While in Europe,
he was able to travel to Paris, but his favorite memory was visiting Rome and
the Vatican.

Larry was married twice, first to Olga Harris in 1972.
Sadly, Olga was taken from him the following year by cancer. He later married
Helen Watson, well known in WaKeeney for Helen’s Café. They remained united
until her passing in 2008. Larry was a lifelong farmer and rancher and employed
and mentored many youths from WaKeeney as well as his nephews during the
summers. A lifelong Democrat, Larry and Helen often hosted local events for the
Democratic Party. He couldn’t understand why everyone wasn’t a Democrat, given
their role in bringing Rural Electric, Social Security, and Medicare.

Beyond his strong work ethic, the defining feature of
Larry’s life was his generosity. He helped countless WaKeeney residents with
bills, groceries, gas, or by providing work when needed. He donated the
property where the Community Center for Christ the King Church now stands.
Larry long dreamed of building an indoor swimming pool for WaKeeney youth; when
that plan did not come to fruition, he dug several ponds on his property to
provide some of the best fishing around.

Larry is survived by sisters Lori Blackwill of WaKeeney,
Kansas; Karen Vail of Salina, Kansas; and Kay Religa of Brookville, Kansas; as
well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Connor,
brother James Connor, and sister Gladys Connor.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:30
a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery, 500 S. 13th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Fr. James Alaya of Christ the King Catholic Church will be officiating.

Memorial contributions are a personal choice, but Larry
supported many animal and Catholic organizations. Donations may be sent to
Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758146930346.jpeg" alt="Larry Connor" />
 <figcaption>Larry Connor</figcaption>
 </figure>Larry Connor, born Joseph Larry, lifelong resident of
WaKeeney, Kansas, met his Lord on September 15, 2025. Larry was born in Hays,
Kansas, on July 6, 1933. He graduated from Trego Community High School and
continued on to Kansas State University, where he majored in Agriculture.
Following college, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, staying
prepared for a potential Russian invasion during the Cold War. While in Europe,
he was able to travel to Paris, but his favorite memory was visiting Rome and
the Vatican.Larry was married twice, first to Olga Harris in 1972.
Sadly, Olga was taken from him the following year by cancer. He later married
Helen Watson, well known in WaKeeney for Helen’s Café. They remained united
until her passing in 2008. Larry was a lifelong farmer and rancher and employed
and mentored many youths from WaKeeney as well as his nephews during the
summers. A lifelong Democrat, Larry and Helen often hosted local events for the
Democratic Party. He couldn’t understand why everyone wasn’t a Democrat, given
their role in bringing Rural Electric, Social Security, and Medicare.Beyond his strong work ethic, the defining feature of
Larry’s life was his generosity. He helped countless WaKeeney residents with
bills, groceries, gas, or by providing work when needed. He donated the
property where the Community Center for Christ the King Church now stands.
Larry long dreamed of building an indoor swimming pool for WaKeeney youth; when
that plan did not come to fruition, he dug several ponds on his property to
provide some of the best fishing around.Larry is survived by sisters Lori Blackwill of WaKeeney,
Kansas; Karen Vail of Salina, Kansas; and Kay Religa of Brookville, Kansas; as
well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Connor,
brother James Connor, and sister Gladys Connor.Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from
5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:30
a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery, 500 S. 13th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
Fr. James Alaya of Christ the King Catholic Church will be officiating.Memorial contributions are a personal choice, but Larry
supported many animal and Catholic organizations. Donations may be sent to
Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.To share memories or leave condolences, please visit <a href="http://www.schmittfuneral.com">www.schmittfuneral.com</a>.

Larry Connor

Linda Lee Hyatt passed away at her home in Rush Center, Kansas on
September 15, 2025. She was born July 13, 1943, in Bath County, Virginia, one
of four children born to John Andrew and Evelyn Venetta Beck. She enjoyed and
loved growing up and working on the large family farm raising chickens,
turkeys, beef cattle, and participating in the various activities of farm life.
At age 17 she moved with her family to St Petersburg, Florida where she
graduated from high school. After graduation she moved to Maryland and worked
for NASA. While in Maryland she met missionaries from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and was soon baptized a member where she loved,
embraced and served faithfully in her church the remainder of her life.

After meeting the love of her life and eternal companion to be,
Chester Blaine Hyatt, and dating for ten days, they were sealed together for
time and all eternity in a Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints in St George, Utah on September 24, 1966. She started her family life in
Parowan, Utah. She had a great love for learning and pursued her education soon
after her marriage attending Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah where
she received her bachelor’s degree in 1970 with a major in Elementary Education
and a minor in Music and Child Development. In 1981 she received her master’s
degree from Utah State University with a major in Elementary Education and an
emphasis on Early Childhood Education. In 1994 she received her doctorate
degree from Walden University, majoring in Educational Administration with
emphasis on Special Education and Gifted Education.

While in Parowan, Utah she owned and operated a private academic
preschool. In 1990 she and her family moved to Eureka, Nevada where she worked
in the following capacities: Director of Special Education Services, Assistant
Administrator to Superintendent, and Gifted Education Teacher, Due Process
Hearing Officer for the State of Nevada, Adjunct Professor of Graduate Studies
for Southern Utah University, Advisor and Coordinator for graduate students in
northeastern Nevada for Southern Utah University, English, Music and History
teacher and Outreach Coordinator for Great Basin College. In 2001 she moved to
Hays, Kansas to teach at Fort Hays State University where she concluded her
career as a professor in 2016. She published numerous professional articles, authored
and co-authored several books.

The most important and cherished things in her life were her
family and church for which she sacrificed and gave selfless service through
her life. She taught classes and served in leadership positions in her church
and felt one of the greatest blessings was the opportunity to serve as a temple
worker in the Kansas City, Missouri temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.

She is survived by her husband C. Blaine Hyatt of Rush Center,
Kansas; Children: Sandi Hyatt of Hopkinsville, Kentucky; Dr. Andrew B. Hyatt
(Clarice) of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; John Benjamin Hyatt (Sarah) of LaCrosse,
Kansas; and James C. Hyatt (Abby) of Hays, Kansas. 11 grandchildren and two
great grandsons.

Funeral Services will be Monday September 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2901 Canal Boulevard Hays,
Kansas 67601. Viewing and Visitation will be on Sunday September 21, 2025, from
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel,
2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601, and on Monday from 10:00 AM until service
time at the Church. Interment will follow the services on Monday in Locust Hill
Cemetery - Rush Center, Kansas at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the General
Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (please make
checks payable to Missionary Fund) in care of the Funeral Chapel.

Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758032195012.jpeg" alt="Linda Lee Hyatt" />
 <figcaption>Linda Lee Hyatt</figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Lee Hyatt passed away at her home in Rush Center, Kansas on
September 15, 2025. She was born July 13, 1943, in Bath County, Virginia, one
of four children born to John Andrew and Evelyn Venetta Beck. She enjoyed and
loved growing up and working on the large family farm raising chickens,
turkeys, beef cattle, and participating in the various activities of farm life.
At age 17 she moved with her family to St Petersburg, Florida where she
graduated from high school. After graduation she moved to Maryland and worked
for NASA. While in Maryland she met missionaries from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints and was soon baptized a member where she loved,
embraced and served faithfully in her church the remainder of her life.After meeting the love of her life and eternal companion to be,
Chester Blaine Hyatt, and dating for ten days, they were sealed together for
time and all eternity in a Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints in St George, Utah on September 24, 1966. She started her family life in
Parowan, Utah. She had a great love for learning and pursued her education soon
after her marriage attending Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah where
she received her bachelor’s degree in 1970 with a major in Elementary Education
and a minor in Music and Child Development. In 1981 she received her master’s
degree from Utah State University with a major in Elementary Education and an
emphasis on Early Childhood Education. In 1994 she received her doctorate
degree from Walden University, majoring in Educational Administration with
emphasis on Special Education and Gifted Education.While in Parowan, Utah she owned and operated a private academic
preschool. In 1990 she and her family moved to Eureka, Nevada where she worked
in the following capacities: Director of Special Education Services, Assistant
Administrator to Superintendent, and Gifted Education Teacher, Due Process
Hearing Officer for the State of Nevada, Adjunct Professor of Graduate Studies
for Southern Utah University, Advisor and Coordinator for graduate students in
northeastern Nevada for Southern Utah University, English, Music and History
teacher and Outreach Coordinator for Great Basin College. In 2001 she moved to
Hays, Kansas to teach at Fort Hays State University where she concluded her
career as a professor in 2016. She published numerous professional articles, authored
and co-authored several books.The most important and cherished things in her life were her
family and church for which she sacrificed and gave selfless service through
her life. She taught classes and served in leadership positions in her church
and felt one of the greatest blessings was the opportunity to serve as a temple
worker in the Kansas City, Missouri temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.She is survived by her husband C. Blaine Hyatt of Rush Center,
Kansas; Children: Sandi Hyatt of Hopkinsville, Kentucky; Dr. Andrew B. Hyatt
(Clarice) of Cape Girardeau, Missouri; John Benjamin Hyatt (Sarah) of LaCrosse,
Kansas; and James C. Hyatt (Abby) of Hays, Kansas. 11 grandchildren and two
great grandsons.Funeral Services will be Monday September 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM at
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2901 Canal Boulevard Hays,
Kansas 67601. Viewing and Visitation will be on Sunday September 21, 2025, from
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel,
2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601, and on Monday from 10:00 AM until service
time at the Church. Interment will follow the services on Monday in Locust Hill
Cemetery - Rush Center, Kansas at 2:30 PM.In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the General
Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (please make
checks payable to Missionary Fund) in care of the Funeral Chapel.Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory -
Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

Linda Lee Hyatt

GARDEN CITY, Kan. - The Fort Hays State women's golf team opened the 2025-26 season with a second place finish at the Broncbuster Invitational this week (Sept. 16-17) at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course, a par-72, 5,841-yard layout. Fort Hays State turned in scores of 328 and 337, finishing the week at 89-over as a squad.

The Tigers had six competitors place in the top 10, including a pair that finished in a tie for fourth through two rounds of competition. Chico State transfer Alexis Elliott made her Tiger debut with a round of 80 on day one, the low round of the week for the Tigers. She followed that up with an 83 in round two to finish the week 19-over, good for fourth place and just six shots shy of first place. She carded one birdie in each round.

Hayden York fired an 82 in the opening round to sit in seventh place before climbing three spots to tie for fourth at 19-over for the week. The junior posted a round of 81 on day two, tied for the third best round on the day. She finished the week with one birdie which came in round two.

Abbie Norris placed seventh at 23-over after rounds of 81 and 86, while Jaycee Oakley finished in eighth place after carding an 85 in the opening round and an 87 on day two. Brynn Ray was one spot behind Oakley, finishing ninth after scores of 87 and 93 to round out the Tiger lineup.

Kiley Maier and Ashlyn Koenke competed as individuals, with Maier placing 10th (91-96) and Koenke placing 12th (91-101).

Host Garden City CC took home the team title at 66-over following rounds of 314 and 328. GCCC's Fernanda Rodriguez secured the individual championship at 13-over thanks to rounds of 77 and 80.

The Tigers will return to competition in two weeks when they travel to Sand Creek Station Golf Course in Newton, Kan. for the Newman Invitational September 29-30.

2nd - Fort Hays State - 328 - 337 -- 665 +89 T4th - Hayden York - 82 - 81 -- 163 +19 T4th - Alexis Elliott - 80 - 83 -- 163 +19 7th - Abbie Norris - 81 - 86 -- 167 +23 8th - Jaycee Oakley - 85 - 87 -- 172 +28 9th - Brynn Ray - 87 - 93 -- 180 +36 10th - Kiley Maier (ind.) - 91 - 96 -- 187 +43 12th - Ashlyn Koenke (ind.) - 91 - 101 -- 192 +48

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758190703666.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsGARDEN CITY, Kan. - The Fort Hays State women's golf team opened the 2025-26 season with a second place finish at the Broncbuster Invitational this week (Sept. 16-17) at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course, a par-72, 5,841-yard layout. Fort Hays State turned in scores of 328 and 337, finishing the week at 89-over as a squad.The Tigers had six competitors place in the top 10, including a pair that finished in a tie for fourth through two rounds of competition. Chico State transfer Alexis Elliott made her Tiger debut with a round of 80 on day one, the low round of the week for the Tigers. She followed that up with an 83 in round two to finish the week 19-over, good for fourth place and just six shots shy of first place. She carded one birdie in each round.Hayden York fired an 82 in the opening round to sit in seventh place before climbing three spots to tie for fourth at 19-over for the week. The junior posted a round of 81 on day two, tied for the third best round on the day. She finished the week with one birdie which came in round two.Abbie Norris placed seventh at 23-over after rounds of 81 and 86, while Jaycee Oakley finished in eighth place after carding an 85 in the opening round and an 87 on day two. Brynn Ray was one spot behind Oakley, finishing ninth after scores of 87 and 93 to round out the Tiger lineup.Kiley Maier and Ashlyn Koenke competed as individuals, with Maier placing 10th (91-96) and Koenke placing 12th (91-101).Host Garden City CC took home the team title at 66-over following rounds of 314 and 328. GCCC's Fernanda Rodriguez secured the individual championship at 13-over thanks to rounds of 77 and 80.The Tigers will return to competition in two weeks when they travel to Sand Creek Station Golf Course in Newton, Kan. for the Newman Invitational September 29-30.2nd - Fort Hays State - 328 - 337 -- 665 +89 T4th - Hayden York - 82 - 81 -- 163 +19 T4th - Alexis Elliott - 80 - 83 -- 163 +19 7th - Abbie Norris - 81 - 86 -- 167 +23 8th - Jaycee Oakley - 85 - 87 -- 172 +28 9th - Brynn Ray - 87 - 93 -- 180 +36 10th - Kiley Maier (ind.) - 91 - 96 -- 187 +43 12th - Ashlyn Koenke (ind.) - 91 - 101 -- 192 +48

⛳ FHSU women second at season-opening event

NEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team moved to 27th in the country in the latest USTFCCCA NCAA Division II National Coaches Poll, announced Wednesday. The Tigers slid one spot in the poll after opening the year ranked 26th.

Adams State tops the national poll once again after receiving all eight first-place votes, while three MIAA schools are also listed in No. 10 Pittsburg State, No. 16 Rogers State and No. 18 Nebraska-Kearney.

Fort Hays State has had a strong start to the season, placing second as a team at each of its first two races. The Tigers defeated Division I Wichita State in the opening week of the season, with Emily Diercks placing first overall with a 5K time of 18:11.1. FHSU then sent a limited number of competitors to Bethel last weekend, finishing just 10 points behind the leaders with primarily freshmen running for the Tigers.

The Tigers will return to competition at the end of the month (Sept. 26) when they travel to Stillwater, Okla. for the Cowboy Jamboree. The women's 5K is slated to begin at 8:15 a.m. FHSU will then wrap up the regular season at home with the Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758190108689.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNEW ORLEANS - The Fort Hays State women's cross country team moved to 27th in the country in the latest USTFCCCA NCAA Division II National Coaches Poll, announced Wednesday. The Tigers slid one spot in the poll after opening the year ranked 26th.Adams State tops the national poll once again after receiving all eight first-place votes, while three MIAA schools are also listed in No. 10 Pittsburg State, No. 16 Rogers State and No. 18 Nebraska-Kearney.Fort Hays State has had a strong start to the season, placing second as a team at each of its first two races. The Tigers defeated Division I Wichita State in the opening week of the season, with Emily Diercks placing first overall with a 5K time of 18:11.1. FHSU then sent a limited number of competitors to Bethel last weekend, finishing just 10 points behind the leaders with primarily freshmen running for the Tigers.The Tigers will return to competition at the end of the month (Sept. 26) when they travel to Stillwater, Okla. for the Cowboy Jamboree. The women's 5K is slated to begin at 8:15 a.m. FHSU will then wrap up the regular season at home with the Tiger Open on Saturday, October 11.

👟 FHSU women's cross country moves to No. 27 in DII

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

The two items for Thursday's Hays City Commission work session involve city parks.

The Arc of Central Plains is requesting approval to proceed with Phase 3 improvements at ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest.

Those improvements would include new shelter houses, a gazebo and permanent cornhole courts. 

The Arc of Central Plains would pay the estimated $500,000 costs. If the commission approves moving forward with Phase 3, Parks Director Jeff Boyle would monitor the construction phase.

Another ask is coming to the commission from the Heartland Community Foundation Youth Action Council.

The group wants permission to install painted fiberglass bison statues in the city, including some public spaces.&nbsp;

This is a countywide initiative involving the four high schools and funded entirely by donations.

Local and student artists would paint up to 25 life-size statues to reflect the community’s heritage and history.

The bison are intended for high-visibility public and private locations that draw attention and encourage visitors to explore nearby businesses and attractions. Maps, walking tours and social media campaigns would guide visitors, generating foot traffic and economic activity, according to the proposal.

The complete Sept. 18 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09182025-1570">here</a>.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758128549500.png" alt="3300 Hillcrest, Hays. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>3300 Hillcrest, Hays. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostThe two items for Thursday's Hays City Commission work session involve city parks.The Arc of Central Plains is requesting approval to proceed with Phase 3 improvements at ARC Park, 3300 Hillcrest.Those improvements would include new shelter houses, a gazebo and permanent cornhole courts. The Arc of Central Plains would pay the estimated $500,000 costs. If the commission approves moving forward with Phase 3, Parks Director Jeff Boyle would monitor the construction phase.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758129999809.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Another ask is coming to the commission from the Heartland Community Foundation Youth Action Council.The group wants permission to install painted fiberglass bison statues in the city, including some public spaces.&nbsp;This is a countywide initiative involving the four high schools and funded entirely by donations.Local and student artists would paint up to 25 life-size statues to reflect the community’s heritage and history.The bison are intended for high-visibility public and private locations that draw attention and encourage visitors to explore nearby businesses and attractions. Maps, walking tours and social media campaigns would guide visitors, generating foot traffic and economic activity, according to the proposal.The complete Sept. 18 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09182025-1570">here</a>.&nbsp;The work session begins at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.

ARC Park upgrades, bison sculpture plans to come before Hays City Commission

By JULIE TOLLESON KU News Service

LAWRENCE—The Kansas Geological Survey has released a new full-color geologic map of Jewell County, where an ancient inland sea left rocks rich in fossils, time and erosion created a striking landscape, and excavations reveal evidence of prehistoric people.

Authors of the map are William C. Johnson, professor emeritus, Department of Geography &amp; Atmospheric Science, and Terri Lee Woodburn, director of the Environmental Assessment Professional Science master’s program and associate teaching professor, University of Kansas. KGS cartographers John Dunham and Emily Bunse contributed map layout and database design.

Jewell County lies in the Smoky Hills physiographic region of the state along the Nebraska border. The new map shows the type and age of rock layers found at or near the surface in the north-central Kansas county and identifies deposits of rocks and other materials of economic importance for construction and roads.

The county’s surface and near surface sedimentary bedrock formed during the Cretaceous geologic period 100 to 80 million years ago when the Western Interior Seaway covered the present-day Great Plains.&nbsp;

The rocks found in the county today are rich in marine fossils, including Inoceramus and Ostrea shells, turtles, rays and mosasaurs. A sandstone within the Dakota Formation known as the “shark-tooth conglomerate” contains teeth from several species of shark. In 1874, Benjamin Mudge, the first director of the Kansas Geological Survey, discovered a plesiosaur — a large, swimming reptile — in the Fort Hays Limestone Member in Jewell County.

Excavations at Lovewell Reservoir uncovered the bones of several mammoths associated with the Last Glacial Maximum, the last time glaciers reached their maximum extent, 20,000-26,000 years ago during the Pleistocene. A collection of other Pleistocene fossils discovered in the area, called the Lovewell Local Fauna, include camels, dire wolves, horses, llamas, sloths, and small mammals, toads, snakes, fish and birds.

“Archaeological excavations have indicated that prehistoric peoples occupied Jewell County, with the most extensive cultural activity apparently adjacent to Lovewell Reservoir and the rest of White Rock Creek valley,” Johnson said.&nbsp;

“The most prominent geological feature in Jewell County is the Niobrara Escarpment, which becomes apparent as you travel northwest from the plains in the southeastern part of the county toward the town of Mankato,” Woodburn said. “Erosion beneath the Fort Hays Limestone Member of the Niobrara Chalk reveals the distinctive Blue Hill Shale Member of the Carlile Shale, with its bluish-black coloring. This exposure creates a striking and unexpected landscape.”

Where the Blue Hill Shale Member is visible, large septarian nodules often can be found. These unusual rocks are concretions composed of brown calcite and cemented sediment.&nbsp;

The Jewell County map identifies sources of rocks and other materials used in construction and road development.

“Historically, the geologic resources of Jewell County have included sand and gravel, limestone, the post-rock building stone, chalk, ceramic clays, volcanic ash and lignite (a type of coal),” Johnson said. In the late 1800s and first half of the 1900s, residents mined lignite from the Dakota Formation for heating and cooking, fence-post limestone from the top of the Greenhorn Limestone for fencing and building construction, and volcanic ash for use in abrasives, ceramics, concrete and paint, among others.

Today, the main resources found in Jewell County are limestone from the Fort Hays Limestone Member, exposed along the Niobrara Escarpment, and the Greenhorn Limestone; sand and gravel from river deposits; and sandstone and shale from the Dakota Formation along Buffalo Creek.

The 62-inch by 49.5-inch “Surficial Geology of Jewell County, Kansas” contains the map; a report on the geography, geology, water and mineral resources, and paleontology of the county; a cross section; and an illustrated stratigraphic column. Shaded relief provides a three-dimensional quality that accentuates the hills and valleys. The cross section depicts a vertical slice of subsurface rock layers along a line running west to east across the county. The stratigraphic column shows the order in which rock units were deposited over time and a description of each unit. 

Towns, roads (from highways to unimproved roadways), elevation contours at 25-foot intervals, and township and range boundaries also appear on the map. 

The scale is 1:50,000, so that one inch on the map equals about three-quarters of a mile of actual distance.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kgs.ku.edu/General/Geology/County/ghj/jewell.html">The map can be accessed online</a>.

Geographic information systems (GIS) data for the map will be available for download from the&nbsp;<a href="https://hub.kansasgis.org/">Kansas Data Access and Support Center</a>&nbsp;(DASC), housed at the KGS, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/ngm-bin/ngm_compsearch.pl">U.S. Geological Survey National Geologic Map Database catalog</a>. GIS data helps geologists visualize, analyze and interpret the geology of a mapped area.

Paper copies of “Surficial Geology of Jewell County, Kansas” may be purchased by contacting the&nbsp;<a href="https://kgs.ku.edu/kgs-publications-sales">KGS publication sales office</a>&nbsp;at 1930 Constant Ave., Lawrence, KS 66047-3724 (phone 785-864-3965 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kgs-publications@ku.edu">kgs-publications@ku.edu</a>) or the KGS’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kgs.ku.edu/kgsr">Kansas Geologic Sample Repository</a>&nbsp;at 4150 W. Monroe St., Wichita, KS 67209-2640 (phone 316-943-2343 ext. 200 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kgsr@ku.edu">kgsr@ku.edu</a>). The cost is $20 plus shipping and handling and, for Kansas residents, sales tax.

More information about county geologic maps and other KGS products is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kgs.ku.edu/">KGS website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757698224350.jpeg" alt="Surficial geology of Jewell County, Kansas. Kansas Geological Survey" />
 <figcaption>Surficial geology of Jewell County, Kansas. Kansas Geological Survey</figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIE TOLLESON KU News ServiceLAWRENCE—The Kansas Geological Survey has released a new full-color geologic map of Jewell County, where an ancient inland sea left rocks rich in fossils, time and erosion created a striking landscape, and excavations reveal evidence of prehistoric people.Authors of the map are William C. Johnson, professor emeritus, Department of Geography &amp; Atmospheric Science, and Terri Lee Woodburn, director of the Environmental Assessment Professional Science master’s program and associate teaching professor, University of Kansas. KGS cartographers John Dunham and Emily Bunse contributed map layout and database design.Jewell County lies in the Smoky Hills physiographic region of the state along the Nebraska border. The new map shows the type and age of rock layers found at or near the surface in the north-central Kansas county and identifies deposits of rocks and other materials of economic importance for construction and roads.The county’s surface and near surface sedimentary bedrock formed during the Cretaceous geologic period 100 to 80 million years ago when the Western Interior Seaway covered the present-day Great Plains.&nbsp;The rocks found in the county today are rich in marine fossils, including Inoceramus and Ostrea shells, turtles, rays and mosasaurs. A sandstone within the Dakota Formation known as the “shark-tooth conglomerate” contains teeth from several species of shark. In 1874, Benjamin Mudge, the first director of the Kansas Geological Survey, discovered a plesiosaur — a large, swimming reptile — in the Fort Hays Limestone Member in Jewell County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757698311175.jpeg" alt="Inoceramus shell fossil. Photo by William C. Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Inoceramus shell fossil. Photo by William C. Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Excavations at Lovewell Reservoir uncovered the bones of several mammoths associated with the Last Glacial Maximum, the last time glaciers reached their maximum extent, 20,000-26,000 years ago during the Pleistocene. A collection of other Pleistocene fossils discovered in the area, called the Lovewell Local Fauna, include camels, dire wolves, horses, llamas, sloths, and small mammals, toads, snakes, fish and birds.“Archaeological excavations have indicated that prehistoric peoples occupied Jewell County, with the most extensive cultural activity apparently adjacent to Lovewell Reservoir and the rest of White Rock Creek valley,” Johnson said.&nbsp;<h2>Unique geology</h2>“The most prominent geological feature in Jewell County is the Niobrara Escarpment, which becomes apparent as you travel northwest from the plains in the southeastern part of the county toward the town of Mankato,” Woodburn said. “Erosion beneath the Fort Hays Limestone Member of the Niobrara Chalk reveals the distinctive Blue Hill Shale Member of the Carlile Shale, with its bluish-black coloring. This exposure creates a striking and unexpected landscape.”Where the Blue Hill Shale Member is visible, large septarian nodules often can be found. These unusual rocks are concretions composed of brown calcite and cemented sediment.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757698383918.jpeg" alt="Septarian nodules. Photo by William C. Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Septarian nodules. Photo by William C. Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>The Jewell County map identifies sources of rocks and other materials used in construction and road development.“Historically, the geologic resources of Jewell County have included sand and gravel, limestone, the post-rock building stone, chalk, ceramic clays, volcanic ash and lignite (a type of coal),” Johnson said. In the late 1800s and first half of the 1900s, residents mined lignite from the Dakota Formation for heating and cooking, fence-post limestone from the top of the Greenhorn Limestone for fencing and building construction, and volcanic ash for use in abrasives, ceramics, concrete and paint, among others.Today, the main resources found in Jewell County are limestone from the Fort Hays Limestone Member, exposed along the Niobrara Escarpment, and the Greenhorn Limestone; sand and gravel from river deposits; and sandstone and shale from the Dakota Formation along Buffalo Creek.<h2>About the map</h2>The 62-inch by 49.5-inch “Surficial Geology of Jewell County, Kansas” contains the map; a report on the geography, geology, water and mineral resources, and paleontology of the county; a cross section; and an illustrated stratigraphic column. Shaded relief provides a three-dimensional quality that accentuates the hills and valleys. The cross section depicts a vertical slice of subsurface rock layers along a line running west to east across the county. The stratigraphic column shows the order in which rock units were deposited over time and a description of each unit. Towns, roads (from highways to unimproved roadways), elevation contours at 25-foot intervals, and township and range boundaries also appear on the map. The scale is 1:50,000, so that one inch on the map equals about three-quarters of a mile of actual distance.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kgs.ku.edu/General/Geology/County/ghj/jewell.html">The map can be accessed online</a>.Geographic information systems (GIS) data for the map will be available for download from the&nbsp;<a href="https://hub.kansasgis.org/">Kansas Data Access and Support Center</a>&nbsp;(DASC), housed at the KGS, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://ngmdb.usgs.gov/ngm-bin/ngm_compsearch.pl">U.S. Geological Survey National Geologic Map Database catalog</a>. GIS data helps geologists visualize, analyze and interpret the geology of a mapped area.Paper copies of “Surficial Geology of Jewell County, Kansas” may be purchased by contacting the&nbsp;<a href="https://kgs.ku.edu/kgs-publications-sales">KGS publication sales office</a>&nbsp;at 1930 Constant Ave., Lawrence, KS 66047-3724 (phone 785-864-3965 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kgs-publications@ku.edu">kgs-publications@ku.edu</a>) or the KGS’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kgs.ku.edu/kgsr">Kansas Geologic Sample Repository</a>&nbsp;at 4150 W. Monroe St., Wichita, KS 67209-2640 (phone 316-943-2343 ext. 200 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kgsr@ku.edu">kgsr@ku.edu</a>). The cost is $20 plus shipping and handling and, for Kansas residents, sales tax. More information about county geologic maps and other KGS products is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kgs.ku.edu/">KGS website</a>.

Geologic map for Jewell County now available; rocks rich in marine fossils

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702995961939.png" alt="File photo" />
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Hays Police Department arrest log: Sept. 7-13, 2025

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Hays Police Department activity log: Sept. 7-13, 2025

Wednesday, September 17
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Wednesday, September 17
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 6:00pmThursday, September 18
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Seattle Mariners, 12:30pmFriday, September 19
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 6:00pm
 KKQY: Ellis FB at Hoxie, 6:00pm
 KFIX: Hays High FB at Manhattan, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Phillipsburg, 6:30pmSaturday, September 20
 KJLS: Fort Hays State
FB at Pittsburg State, 3:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs. West Virginia, 3:30pmSunday, September 21
 KAYS: Kansas City
Royals vs. Toronto Blue Jays, 12:30pm
 KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB at New York Giants, 6:00pm

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

As of July 29, Ellis County was removed entirely from the Kansas Drought Monitor map.

This was the first time Ellis County has been completely drought-free since July 6, 2021, according to Matt Sittel, assistant state climatologist.

Hays received another .29 inches of rain as of 8 this morning according to the K-State Ag Research Farm.

Stacy Campbell, crop production extension agent, said that might be good news for fall crops, which will be harvested in late September or early October, and winter wheat, which will be planted this month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758055906103.png" alt="Kansas Drought Monitor map as of Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Drought Monitor map as of Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAs of July 29, Ellis County was removed entirely from the Kansas Drought Monitor map.This was the first time Ellis County has been completely drought-free since July 6, 2021, according to Matt Sittel, assistant state climatologist.Hays received another .29 inches of rain as of 8 this morning according to the K-State Ag Research Farm.Stacy Campbell, crop production extension agent, said that might be good news for fall crops, which will be harvested in late September or early October, and winter wheat, which will be planted this month.Campbell said the moisture will help the wheat achieve adequate growth before it goes dormant for the winter.The fall harvest might be almost too good, Campbell said.The wheat harvest this summer was bountiful, but prices have been low. Demand has been lower, possibly due to tariffs, he said.This means there is still a significant amount of wheat in storage at local co-ops."I was talking to one of the co-op guys in Great Bend a little over a week ago. He said, 'Boy, we have good crops. We're trying to figure out how we're going to get it all put into the bins,'"&nbsp;Campbell said."Grains aren't moving that much, so there's a concern of where all of this grain is going to go," Campbell said.The corn harvest is expected to start at the end of the month. Soybean harvest will likely occur in October, Campbell said. Sorghum is usually harvested after the killing freeze, on average, around October 9, with an additional week of dry time following the freeze.Campbell said it is much too early to forecast the outcome for winter wheat. The area will need to have precipitation later in the growing season to secure a good crop.Although farmers elsewhere in Kansas irrigate crops, Ellis County row crop farmers rely on dryland farming due to a lack of water resources."The one limiting factor that affects yields the most in dryland farming is moisture," he said.Holly Dickman, Hays water conservation specialist, said she initially questioned the removal of Ellis County from drought/dry status.She said Hays had received more rain than areas in the southern Ellis County. However, since that interview, the county has received more rain.Even though the county is no longer in drought, she said those conditions can change rapidly.She urged residents to continue to conserve water.As of this morning, Hays has received .8 inches of rain in September and 17.51 inches of rain year-to-date, according to the K-State Ag Research Farm.In an average year, it receives 2.24 inches of precipitation in September and 19.84 inches of precipitation through the end of September.The National Weather Service calls for a slight chance of showers or thunderstorms in Hays overnight, Thursday and Thursday night, then sunny skies through the weekend.The forecast calls for another slight chance of rain on Sunday night then more sunny weather to start next week.