Kansas Klips
Lost banner from Ahearn Fieldhouse returned to Manhattan
MANHATTAN—In a moment of triumph for the Wildcat community, a one-of-a-kind banner that once graced the storied halls of Ahearn Fieldhouse has returned home after over five decades. Thanks to the dedication and passion of Bobby Sloan, SVP and Director of Marketing at Outdoor Bank, the banner was recently recovered following weeks of extensive research, negotiations, and careful handling, according to a media release from K-State. This unique, hand-painted piece prominently features Willie the Wildcat and bears witness to countless moments of school pride, sports triumphs, and even history itself. The banner holds a special place in the hearts of Wildcats, having been present during some of the most memorable events in Ahearn Fieldhouse’s history. Among these, the banner stood as a silent witness to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final collegiate address before his tragic assassination in 1968—a moment that resonates deeply with both the Manhattan community and the broader national conversation. Sloan, known for his role in leading Outdoor Bank’s commitment to community and connection, felt compelled to take on the search after hearing of the banner’s storied past. Fueled by his love for history and his determination to bring this relic home, Sloan embarked on a journey that spanned weeks, culminating in the banner’s return to Manhattan. The rediscovered piece represents more than memorabilia; it is a symbol of pride for alumni, students, and community members alike. The reappearance of the banner has ignited excitement and nostalgia among Wildcats, who now have a tangible connection to the cherished moments of Ahearn Fieldhouse’s past. “This is more than just a banner—it’s a thread that connects us to the stories of those who came before, and it inspires us to continue building a legacy worth honoring,” Sloan shared, “It’s a reminder of how our past continues to shape our future.” The banner was recently unveiled during halftime of the K-State vs. LSU men’s basketball game. (Hays Post)
Hays developer to purchase Lincoln School for apartment project
HAYS—Recently, the Hays School Board approved the Lincoln Elementary School building sale to Turn-Key Property Solutions for $850,000.00. Developer Michael Graham said he plans to renovate the school into approximately 26 to 28 one- and two-bedroom apartments. (Hays Post)
Kansas Highway Patrol arrests escapee near Gorham
HAYS—The Kansas Highway Patrol apprehended an escaped suspect on Thursday, November 25th, after a hunt in the rural area near Walker. At about 4:30 p.m., a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper observed a silver Honda Pilot traveling eastbound on Interstate 70 at a high rate of speed near Walker, said Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Heilman. The trooper made a traffic stop and found that a female passenger, 27-year-old Yury Alexandra Agudelo-Forero, had two active warrants out of Colorado for charges of burglary. The trooper took the suspect into custody, placed her in handcuffs, placed her in the front seat of his vehicle, and seat belted her into the vehicle. The trooper then returned to the stopped vehicle to assist the other trooper on the scene and ensure his safety. The suspect unbuckled the seatbelt, opened the door, and fled. A search for the suspect ensued, including troopers on the ground and a Kansas Highway Patrol plane in the air. A witness reported seeing the suspect in a field near Gorham. The suspect, who was still in handcuffs, was taken back into custody without further incident at that location at about 10:05 p.m. The suspect was taken to Hays Med for examination because of her exposure to the cold weather conditions. She was seen, released by the hospital, and booked into the Ellis County Jail. “No one was in danger of any harm,” Heilman said. “She was just trying to get away from us.” Agudelo-Forero was still in custody at the Ellis County Jail as of Monday morning. Heilman said the burglary case concerning her warrants is still under investigation. (Hays Post)
