By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

As Traci Stanford, Downtown Hays Development Corp.‘s executive director, prepares for the next week’s fifth annual Wines and Steins fundraising event, she recalls being emotional this time last year. She had recently resigned her position and was preparing to move to Tennessee for her husband’s new job.

“I remember last year at Wines and Steins — I cried the whole time through my speech, because I was so sad to leave,” she said.

While Stanford and her family did move, they soon found themselves missing family in Hays and “the heart of Hays” — its downtown.

“It is kind of surreal to be back for this event this year,” Stanford said. “My husband and I have been very blessed to be back. We love Hays, and I love downtown Hays. I never thought (the position) would be on my plate again, but when the opportunity arose, I was excited to come back again.”

Stanford was named executive director in August and immediately started planning for the organizations biggest fundraising event,  scheduledfor Sept. 12.

Stanford said the “unique and eclectic” event draws more than 200 strollers every year.

“We really just celebrate all that is going on in downtown Hays. There is so much progress being made, there is always new businesses that are opening,” she said. “We really just offer an opportunity to celebrate the heart of Hays.”

Stanford said 14 to 15 businesses will open their doors after hours and, as in years past, offer hors d’oeuvres and samples of wines and brews.

New this year is “Taste of Downtown,” where participants will get the chance to sample  foods from downtown restaurants.

“Everyone is there to support the organization and and enjoy downtown,” Stanford said. “The event gives a different atmosphere and and offers a different relationship between the business owners and strollers as well.”

Wines and Steins is scheduled for 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 12, beginning with check-in at Emprise Bank, 1200 Main.

For more information and make reservations, contact the DHDC at (785) 621-4171 or stop by DHCS offices at 2700 Vine in Hays.