Shelli Smith and Alex Kutz of Manhattan, Kan., announce their approaching marriage. The couple is planning a 2 p.m. ceremony on Oct. 20, 2007, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Sac City. A reception will follow at King's Pointe Waterpark Resort in Storm Lake.

Shelli, daughter of Craig and Deb Smith of Sioux Center, is a 2002 graduate of Le Mars Community High School. She received her bachelor's degree from Buena Vista University in 2006 and is employed by Kansas State University as a web/graphic designer.

Alex, son of Paul and Rose Kutz of Rockwell City, is a 2002 graduate of Rockwell City-Lytton High School. A sergeant in the United States Army, he recently finished a tour of duty in Iraq and is currently stationed at Fort Riley, Kan.