Adult Leisure Programs
Make sure you check The Hays Recreation Commission website for any upcoming events that did not make the program guide. Updates will be made weekly at the Deadline Wednesday Gazette E-mail newsletter as well. If you have any questions on activities going on or would like to see an activity please contact Haley Nixon, Program Director at 785-623-2650 or haley@haysrec.org.
SHARE YOUR TALENTS
If you are interested in sharing a skill or talent with others, give us a call. We are always looking for new activities and we need instructors for them. The pay is competitive and it is a great way to meet people. Call us today for more information about how you can be a part of sharing your talent with others.
ONGOING EVENTS - Join us for these great ongoing activities!
MONDAY NIGHT PINOCHLE
All you have to do is show up for a great night of Pinochle. Bring your partner or come alone and pair up with someone. We will meet each Monday from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Hays Recreation Center in the Marcy Allenbaugh Conference Room. The HRC will provide pop, bottled water, and cards. You supply the FUN!!! This program is open to anyone aged 18 & older. The program is free of charge although donations will be accepted to help offset the cost of supplies and supervisor.
TUESDAY BRIDGE TIME
Do you love playing Bridge? If you do, come on out to the Recreation Center and play. Get together with your friends and meet some new ones while you play this great card game. This program will meet every Tuesday from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m., in the Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room.
WEDNESDAY DROP-IN PICKLEBALL
We have a court reserved on Wednesday evening just for pickleball. Come give it a try, there are people of all skill levels who play.
Drop-In Fee: $1.00
Held on: Wednesday
Time: 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Age: 18 & older
Location: Recreation Center Gym #3
THURSDAY NIGHT PITCH
Join us on Thursday nights for a fun evening of playing pitch. This program will meet from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Recreation Center in the Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room. This program is open to anyone aged 18 & older.
WEEKDAY PICKLEBALL
Pickleball combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. It is played on a court similar to a doubles badminton court. There is a net mounted two inches lower than in tennis. The game is played with a wooden paddle and a whiffle ball. Pickleball is a great sport for all ages, and easy to learn. Play is first come, first served, and available during open gym time on weekday mornings and as a drop-in on Wednesday evenings.
We have groups that just hit the ball around for fun and others that play by the rules. The idea is just to get out HAVE FUN, and get some exercise!
Held on: Monday - Friday
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
(depending on court availability)
Age: 55 & older
Location: Recreation Center Gyms
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SOUPS: SAURKRAUT, CHEESY
BROCCOLI, AND CHICKEN NOODLE: GERMAN COOKING CLASS
Dive into the warm and comforting world of traditional German soups. Uncover the secrets to crafting these delicious, heartwarming dishes that are slowly becoming a cherished but rare art in our community. Our expert chef will guide you through each recipe, offering tips and tricks to perfect your soup-making skills. Finish the class with a tasting session, allowing you to savor the flavors of your newly learned recipes. Join us for an enriching culinary experience that promises to delight your palate and enhance your cooking repertoire.
Entry Deadline: April 17
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesday, April 23
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: HRC Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 10 Max. 30
Instructor: DeeDee Froelich Rupp
BRAIN FREEZE FUN RUN/WALK – MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU
May the 4th Be With You as you blast off on an interstellar journey with our Brain Freeze Fun Walk/Run! Whether you're channeling your inner Wookiee or racing as a pint-sized Padawan, this intergalactic event promises epic memories, cosmic camaraderie, and T-shirts that would make even Darth Vader crack a smile! Our fun walk/run will offer a 1-mile or 3-mile (5k) stroll. Come Walk, Run, Bike, or stroll as the course is paved! May the Course Be With You!
WE WELCOME EVERYONE TO DRESS IN A SPACE THEME/STAR WARS CHARACTER OR BRING YOUR SPACE/STAR WARS PROPS, HAVE FUN WITH IT!!
As always there will be limited edition t-shirts, snocones, and pizza! All Proceeds go to the HRC Scholarship Fund!
Sponsors & Volunteers include Geek Labs, McDonald's of Hays, City of Hays CVB, Hays High Student Council Students, Papa Murphy’s Pizza, and Ellis County Cancer Council.
Entry Deadline: April 24
for a guaranteed shirt on Race Day
Entry Fee: $15.00
Held on: Saturday, May 4
Times: Registration starts at 8:15 a.m.
Race begins at 9:00 a.m.
Ages: ALL AGES
Location: Hays Aquatic Park - 4th & Main
BEGINNING KNITTING
Yarn, Needles, Cast! People of all ages love to knit, it is relaxing once you get the hang of it so come learn the basics while making a dishcloth. You will need to bring: Size 8 knitting needles, and one skein of yarn to class.
Entry Deadline: April 24
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Wednesdays - May 1 & 8
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
BIEROCK AND GREEN BEAN AND DUMPLING SOUP: GERMAN COOKING CLASS
Dive into German comfort food with our demonstration class. Watch and learn as our instructor crafts these classic dishes, sharing tips and techniques to bring these flavors to your table. The session ends with a tasting, offering a slice of Germany you can savor and enjoy. Join us for a cozy culinary adventure that's both educational and delicious.
Entry Deadline: May 22
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesday, May 28
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: HRC Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 10 Max. 30
Instructor: DeeDee Froelich Rupp
T-SHIRT QUILTING FOR
BEGINNERS
Learn the ins and outs of how to build a t-shirt quilt with a skilled quilter. As a class, we will work from the beginning, and learn to precut, stabilize, design, precision cut, and sew your t-shirts into a completed quilt top. Must have a sewing machine, and basic sewing skills. Stabilizer will be included, but bring your own shirts! Prepare for some at-home work some days if we don’t complete it all in class! Sashing, border, and backing will need to be purchased but this will be discussed in detail during the class.
Entry Deadline: May 22
Entry Fee: $65.00
(this includes the stabilizer needed)
Held on: Tuesdays - May 28 - June 25
Times: 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 8
Instructor: Amanda Long
PUPPY COURSE BY FUR-EVER FRIENDS
This class is for puppies ages 10 weeks to 6 months. The Handler must provide a copy of the first round of shots. There must be at least one handler per dog. In this class, the puppies will learn socialization and a few basic obedience commands. On week 4 of the class, the puppy will have fun with agility obstacles and will also receive a diploma.
Entry Deadline: Session 1: May 29
Session 2: July 10
Entry Fee: $50.00
Held on: Session 1: Mondays – June 3 – 24
Session 2: Mondays – July 15 – Aug. 5
Times: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Ages: 18 & older
Location: HRC Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 8
Instructor: Raina Alm – Certified Dog Trainer
DOG OBEDIENCE BY FUR-EVER FRIENDS
This class is for dogs that are ages 6 months and up. The Handler must provide a copy of shots that include rabies and bordetella. There must be at least one handler per dog. In this class, the handler will be trained to train their dog. They will learn basic obedience which includes sit, down, sit-stay, and down-stay; leave it, and how to walk on a leash. A head collar or pinch collar is preferred for this class. NO choke chains are allowed. No flexi-leashes are allowed, prefer a 6-8-foot nylon leash (they will be dragging the leash around). On week 6 of the class, the dogs will have fun with agility obstacles and will also receive a diploma. If the handler is unsatisfied with the dog’s progression, they can retake the class for half price.
Entry Deadline: Sessions 1 & 2: May 29
Sessions 3 & 4: July 10
Entry Fee: $75.00
Held on: Session 1: Mon.’s – June 3 – July 8
Session 2: Wednesdays - June 5 – July 10
Session 3: Mondays – July 15 – Aug. 19
Session 4: Wednesdays - July 17 – Aug. 21
Times: Mondays - 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Wednesdays - 7:45 – 8:45 p.m.
Ages: 18 & older
Location: HRC Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 8
Instructor: Raina Alm – Certified Dog Trainer
KNITTING
Learn the basic stitches of knitting during this class. You will learn how to make a dishcloth. You will need to bring: Size 8 knitting needles, and one skein of yarn to class.
Entry Deadline: May 29
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesdays – June 4 & 11
Times: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
MONEY SAVING TIPS & TRICKS
Learn money-saving tips for all areas of your life. From standard couponing to life “hacks”, Donna has dealt with it all! As a part of the fee, each participant will receive financial handouts with tips and tricks from each class.
Entry Deadline: Session 1: June 5
Session 2: August 7
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Session 1: Tuesday, June 11
Session 2: Tuesday, August 13
Times: 7:00 pm
Ages: 18 & older
Location: Marcy Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 30
Instructor: Donna Stejskal
MINDPOWERED MINDSETS MINI WORKSHOP
Join Lisa Schreck, Master Mindpower Coach, for 4 days of Mindpower Mindsets. What is Mindpower? It’s where Mental Toughness meets Emotional Resistance. Learn skills, strategies, and techniques that will increase your ability to be resilient during challenging times, gain clarity, and achieve your goals faster using less energy! Experience personal growth and prepare yourself to face challenges, overcome obstacles, and thrive – not just survive! Mindpower matters!
Entry Deadline: June 5
Entry Fee: $150.00
Held on: Monday – Thursday - June 10 - 13
Time: 11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Ages: 18 & older
Location: Marcy Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 2 Max. 12
Instructor: Lisa Schreck
SAMURAI BOOTCAMP
This class is best for those who want to focus and learn as we cover the basics of using a wooden katana (bokken) and also a wooden jo staff. We will do strikes, blocks, movements, patterned movements (kata), attack and defense exercises, and if we get far enough some disarmament/throwing with the staff. In addition, we will cover some cultural and language concepts.
Entry Deadline: June 5
Entry Fee: $60.00
Held on: Mon. & Wed. - June 12 – July 3
Times: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Aikido of Northwest Kansas
208 E 8th Street Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 12
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
AIKIDO SWORD AND STAFF
WEAPONS CLASS
In this class, we will cover the basics of using a wooden katana (bokken) and also a wooden jo staff. We will do strikes, blocks, movements, patterned movements (kata), attack and defense exercises, and if we get far enough some disarmament/throwing with the staff. In addition, we will cover some cultural and language concepts. Any fitness level is welcome.
Entry Deadline: June 5
Entry Fee: $60.00
Held on: Mon. & Wed. - June 12 – July 3
Times: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Ages: 18 & older
Location: The Gamer’s Guild
200 E 8th Street Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 20
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
& Gamers Guild Volunteers
CONNECTED MOVEMENT CLASS
This class primarily involves learning to connect parts of your body together internally along tendon/muscle chains that increase stability, then doing it with light resistance, and then doing it through standing movements (Aikitaiso) that are similar to Tai Chi Movements; if time allows we then move into Taisabaki (empty-handed connection movements) with partners, and we ultimately use these movements in Aikido techniques that end in stretches without falls or pins. Any age and any fitness level are welcome to participate--this can be a good class to work on gentle but efficient movements with others in a fun and different environment.
Entry Deadline: June 5
Entry Fee: $40.00
Held on: Wednesdays – June 12 – July 3
Times: 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Ages: 18 & older
Location: Aikido of Northwest Kansas
208 E 8th Street Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 20
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
LEARN TO PLAY MAGIC THE GATHERING
The first Friday, June 14, we will teach basic game mechanics and help people learn to play the game on a fundamental level. This will involve 60 card decks that participants get to keep; on Friday, June 21 we will use the same 60 card decks in a multiplayer format. We will then move to the Commander multiplayer format with Commander decks (MSRP Approx. $47.50) that participants will also get to keep on Friday, June 28. Finally, we will play a booster draft (typically costs $22.50—price included in participation fee) on July 5 (players draft 3 packs of Magic the Gathering and get to keep all cards drafted/decks built. They then play these decks against others in the booster draft tournament).
Entry Deadline: June 12
Entry Fee: $59.00
Held on: Fridays – June 14 – July 5
Times: 2:00 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: The Gamer’s Guild
200 E 8th Street Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 20
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
& Gamers Guild Volunteers
LEARN TO PLAY POKEMON
All players will get a complete starter deck that they will keep. We will teach basic rules and game mechanics and help people learn their (unmodified) starter decks through casual play the first weekend and a simple tournament structure the second weekend. On the third Saturday, we will have a tournament in which the participants are allowed to modify their decks, and we will give out some prizes. The last Saturday we will have a larger tournament that participants can come to using any deck they own (including the deck we have provided them, modified or unmodified), and we will give out bigger prizes as we celebrate the last program day.
Entry Deadline: June 12
Entry Fee: $29.00
Held on: Saturdays – June 15 – July 6
Times: 4:00 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: The Gamers Guild
200 E 8th Street Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 16
Instructor: Brandon Nimz
& Gamers Guild Volunteers
AIKIDO CAMP
Summer Camp is an excellent training experience for anyone who wants an intensive Aikido training experience. Anyone may attend any session they want and get benefits from the training, but the camp does progress over the week, so attending back to back sessions will yield better results.
Entry Deadline: June 26
Entry Fee: $200.00
Held on: June 30 – July 6
Times:
Sunday June 30 - 1 - 4 p.m. & 6 - 9 p.m.
Monday July 1 - 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. & 5 - 8 p.m.
Tue. July 2 – 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday July 3 – 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 6 - 9 p.m.
Thursday, July 4 – 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 3 - 6 p.m.
Friday, July 5 – 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 6 - 9 p.m.
Sat., July 6 – 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Aikido of Northwest Kansas
208 E 8th Street Suite 1
Limitations: Min. 1 Max. 14
Instructor: Brandon Nimz and Aikido of Northwest Kansas Instructors/Guest Instructors
ORGANIZATION TIPS & TRICKS
If you’re looking to make your life easier, spend less of your hard-earned money, and just have it all together a bit more, these are all things you can do to help accomplish in my organization class. Not only can I help you make your home more manageable, but I can also teach you how to do the same with your life!
Entry Deadline: Session 1: July 3
Session 2: August 14
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Session 1: Tuesday, July 9
Session 2: Tuesday, August 20
Times: 7:00 pm
Ages: 18 & older
Location: Marcy Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 5 Max. 30
Instructor: Donna Stejskal
TATTING
Get registered today and learn the lost art of Tatting. You will learn the basics of how to make rings, joining, and chains. You will learn how to make a snowflake and edging. As part of the fee, each participant will receive a shuttle. You will need to bring a size 10 thread.
Entry Deadline: July 3
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesdays - July 9 & 16
Times: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
CANVAS PAINTING CLASS – “SUNFLOWERS”
Register to join us at The Niche for a step-by-step canvas painting experience. An instructor will lead the group through a Sunflower painting on canvas using acrylic paint. Painters will learn several acrylic techniques and can choose their color palette. 11x14 canvas – special HRC pricing!
Entry Deadline: July 10
Entry Fee: $20.00
Held on: Monday, July 15
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: The Niche Studio
707 Main St.
Limitations: Min. 6 Max. 30
Instructor: Emily Weigel (Owner)
50TH ANNUAL HAYS MERCHANTS GOLF TOURNAMENT
Be part of this great Hays tradition the 50th Annual Hays Merchants Golf Tournament! Play will be held Saturday, July 27 at Smoky Hill Country Club and Sunday, July 28 at Fort Hays Municipal Golf Course. The tournament is open to both men and women, with flights for men, women & seniors (55 years old & older). All flights must have a minimum of 10 golfers. The number of golfers and Saturday’s scores will determine the number of flights. This tournament is open to everyone - NOT just Ellis County residents. Cart rentals are available at each location for an additional fee. Please be prepared when you register to know if you will need to rent a cart at either location.
Thanks to our Sponsors!
Gold Sponsors: Nex-Tech & Nex-Tech Wireless and HESS Services
Silver Sponsors: Adams Brown, Auto World, PWC, Inc., RDH Electric & Construction & Reliable Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
Entry Deadline: July 24
Entry Fee: $120.00
Price increase due to increases at Golf Courses – Carts are included in this fee for both days regardless of if you are a member or not.
Held on: Saturday & Sunday - July 27 & 28
Times: Tee times start at 7:20 a.m.
Pick your tee time when you register
Ages: 18 & older
Location: Saturday - Smoky Hill Country Club
Sunday - Fort Hays Municipal
ADVANCED KNITTING
Learn how to read patterns and make slippers. You will need to bring to class knitting needles (Size 8 Needles) and 4 ounces of yarn. A pre-requisite for the course you must have taken our entry level Knitting class.
Entry Deadline: July 31
Entry Fee: $25.00
Held on: Tuesdays – August 6 & 13
Times: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ages: 16 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
KANSAS HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS – FALL SESSION
Kansas Hunter Education teaches new hunters to be ethical, safe, and knowledgeable. The course consists of subjects covering hunter responsibility, ethics, fair chase, history of firearms, firearms basics, ammunition, basic gun safety, field safety, bow hunting, conservation, and wildlife management, wildlife of Kansas, outdoor emergencies, Kansas hunting regulations, and boating safety for hunters. The traditional hunter education course is organized and conducted by volunteer instructors. Students MUST turn 11 by the last day of class to receive their Hunter Education Card. All parents are welcome to attend classes with their children. Students are REQUIRED to attend both days.
Entry Deadline: August 7
Entry Fee: $5.00 per person
Held on: Thursday AND Saturday – Aug. 8 & 10
Times: Thursday – 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. AND
Saturday – 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Ages: 11 & older as of the last day of class
Location: Leisure Center
Limitations: Min. 10 Max. 25
HAND EMBROIDERY
Explore the beauty and versatility of hand needlework. Learn a variety of techniques and be exposed to a unique skill. You will have the opportunity to create your work of art! You will need to bring a 4-inch embroidery hoop to class, all other supplies will be provided.
Entry Deadline: August 28
Entry Fee: $35.00
Held on: Tuesdays – September 3 & 10
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Ages: 18 & older
Location: Dale Allenbaugh Conference Room
Limitations: Min. 3 Max. 6
Instructor: Deanna Newberry
