Kansas Profile – Now That's Rural: Harry Whitney, Manhattan
“If I told you all the jobs I’ve had in my life, you’d think I was 155 years old,” said Harry Whitney of rural Manhattan.
Uncategorized
Read MoreKansas Profile – Now That's Rural: Harry Whitney, Manhattan
DSNWK/ACCESS Public Transit future bleak without increased County & City support
On June 3, 2025, as Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas, Inc (DSNWK) President/CEO Jerry Michaud presented three 2026 Budget requests from three of the local non-profit’s agencies to the Ellis County Commission, he described the 2026 funding deficit for DSNWK/ACCESS Public Transportation (Rural Public Transportation for Ellis County) as being “between a rock and a hard place.” Michaud formally presented that funding levels be maintained (with no increases compared to 2025) for DSNWK services and DSNWK Kid-Link. He also formally requested a base 2026 County Budget for ACCESS of $50,000 (same as the Outside Agency’s 2025 request) with a request for additional funds (to exceed $50,00 and estimated to be approximately $65,000) due to the gap between levels of Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) funding and increased costs to provide the public transportation service.
Business Retention and Expansion program cohorts from Beloit, Goodland, and Hays are to gather June 9 at FHSU for advanced training
Earlier this spring, the Professional and Continuing Education (PCE) group at Fort Hays State University launched an innovative pilot educational program designed to equip business, government, economic development, and higher education leaders with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to lead economic and workforce development-focused task forces in their local communities. This program is intended to challenge, engage, and guide participants in the practical application of business retention and expansion principles.
Commissioners brace for tough work ahead on 2026 County Budget
Ellis County Administrator Darin Myers presented the First Draft of the 2026 Budget with total general fund revenues at $30,431,872 (increased $640,783 from the 2025 Budget) and expenditures of $33,330,079 (increased $661,478 from the 2025 Budget) to Commissioners on June 3, 2025. "As I stated at your last meeting, we do have the County Audit completed, and I've input all those into the state budget forms ready.
United Way of Ellis County Announces Leadership Transition
The Board of Directors of United Way of Ellis County today announced the upcoming departure of Executive Director Erica Berges, effective June 6, 2025, and the appointment of Bill Ring as Interim Executive Director, effective June 9, 2025.
Hays Public Library Hires Young Adult Coordinator
The Hays Public Library has hired a new Young Adult Coordinator. Cheyenne Rowe, who previously worked at HPL as a library assistant, will facilitate library programs for teens while connecting them to books and other resources the library has to offer.
Carnival returns to enhance the Wild West Festival experience
The Wild West Festival committee announced today the return of a carnival to the annual festivities with Garry Moore Amusement Carnival, enhancing the event with family-friendly entertainment and activities.
Heart of a Tiger: Tigers step up to lend a helping hand in Grinnell
In times of crisis, true character is revealed. And once again, Fort Hays State University students have shown that our Tiger Nation is defined by compassion, leadership, and service to others.