By GARRETT WELLBROCK
Tiger Media Network
HAYS, Kan. — Lokal, a new country bar near Fort Hays State University, is becoming a popular hangout for students and locals.
Open to anyone 18 and older, Lokal owners Tara Thorne and Bob Shuvert opened the bar this summer with the goal of making a safe place that is fun and full of music. Patrons 21 and older get in free, while 18-20-year-olds pay $10.
“We wanted a safe place for students and town people to have fun without worrying about anything,” Thorne said.
Lokal has a lot of space inside and outside, with tables and yard games including cornhole and pickleball, and bar games such as darts, pool, and Polish horseshoes. There is also a dance floor and live music most nights.
Every Thursday is “Country Night” with country music and line dancing. Fridays and Saturdays have a mix of music.
“The DJ actually watches the crowd to see what they want,” Thorne said. “Some people like country and line dancing, and some just like to dance to other songs.”
Thorne said she and Shuvert weren’t sure how busy Lokal would be over the summer, but they were happy with the crowds.
“We were worried about the summer, but we had a steady crowd,” she said. “When school started again, it got really busy and fun.”
Thorne says the staff is friendly and welcoming, and the bouncers are always there to keep patrons safe. She said safety is especially important for students.
“My biggest message is for the girls — you are safe here,” she said. “We have bouncers all the time. There’s plenty of space, fewer fights, and lots of things to do.”
Lokal is planning its first big music festival on Sept. 20. There will be DJs inside and live bands outside. Doors open at 5 p.m., and music starts at 6 p.m.
Thorne said they want to keep making Lokal better by listening to students and the community.
“We want this to be a place for everybody,” she said.
Story for INF 349 Convergent Media Lab