Success Stories 

Deciding to move to Hays was one of the best decisions we have made. Even though our decision to move to Hays in October 2006 meant leaving family, long-time friends and two great corporate careers, we knew this move was right for our family. We were excited for Chris to return to his hometown to work for Golden Belt Bank and for Valerie to spend more time with our two young children. We feel moving to Hays offers great opportunities for our children in school and recreation. We are looking forward to our children attending school in Hays. The Hays community has been very welcoming and friendly and we have found there is always something to do. We have enjoyed the many opportunities Hays has to offer. The Rec. Center, Health Center and the Hays Library have many activities for us and our children. It has been so easy for all of us to get involved in community activities, different sports and meet new people. It is so nice to be in a community that truly supports its citizens. It is also great to see new businesses and restaurants open in Hays and the re-development of the downtown area. It’s nice to call Hays home again.

"Is this Heaven?" I continually ask my wife and she continually answers, "No, this is Hays, Kansas." For 25 years we lived in a small community in eastern Colorado. Every now and then we went to Denver to enjoy a sporting or cultural event. Not as often as we liked because of the high costs. After the excursion we could hardly wait to leave because of the traffic and congestion, everyone was in such a hurry! We always said when our kids were grown we would move to a larger community closer to the front range of Colorado. In May, 2007, after many considerations we moved to Hays, Kansas, not closer to the front range as we thought. In July I opened an Art studio and gallery downtown. We anticipated having more opportunities in Hays, but we had no idea. We have been on the go and like the energizing bunny, are still going and going...This community is great! A true hidden treasure. The education and knowledge in the arts is amazing. The community sports scene may only go to semi-pro and collegiate level but it is truly enjoyable. We have yet to visit every restaurant and grill. And the performing arts are incredible. We have seen big name entertainment all the way down to local entertainment that has blown us away. I have visited many communities and have given shows all over the U.S. They may have part of what Hays offers, but not all. We are enjoying every minute! People generally younger, have asked me "Why did you move from Colorado?" Something inside me would like to slap them silly. Then I realize that they have lived here a long time and take what Hays has to offer for granted. They do not realize the big city opportunities in the small down home atmosphere of Hays, Kansas. Fort Hays State University, the Arts Council, the Hospital, the Churches, the Professional and Community Organizations, the many fine businesses and industries and the friendly people have all played their part in making Hays, Kansas a place we are truly proud to call home!

- Dennis Schiel

"When I was a young person growing up in Hays, I was baffled why my parents chose to live here. Now as a parent and physician with a small business, I understand my parent's wisdom. Hays is a great place to raise a family and have a medical practice. There are no finer people to work with in the world!"

- Dr. Katrina Hess