Schedule for Community/Alumni Participation:

Alumni Participation: Hays High Showcase Assembly 12 p.m., Friday in the Hays High Maroon Gym

Community/Alumni Participation: Hays High Homecoming Parade, Friday 5 p.m., Main St.

Community/Alumni Participation: Hays High Homecoming Game vs. Garden City, 7 p.m. at the Hays High Football Stadium. Coronation at Halftime&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hays High announces Homecoming Court 2025

FHSU crime log: Sept. 5-11, 2025

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/obituaries">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/corrections-about-us">Click HERE for the Hays Post obituary policy.&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/45c326ac-a856-480a-b491-0312e5d43c5c">Find our obituary posting policy by clicking here.</a>

Recent obituaries and service times

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board decided to create a committee to help shape policy on naming rights for school district facilities.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">The district effectively let an offer from Golden Belt Bank of $200,000 for the naming rights to the new football field at Hays High School expire. That contract would have been for a 10-year term.</a>

The bank set a deadline of Sept. 15 to accept the offer.

Board member Ruth Ruder thanked Golden Belt Bank for what she called a tremendous offer.&nbsp;

"We just recently talked about taxes, and here you're given an opportunity to take $200,000 that is given from Golden Belt Bank," she said.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPONHTXLmgQ">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 school board passes budget with tax increase</a>

She said although naming of facilities is usually seen at colleges, Hays could be at the forefront of something new.

She said the Golden Belt Bank offer did not include the bank's logo on the turf or changing the name of the school's mascot to the "Golden Belt Indians."

"When you are talking about increasing revenue, this is the way to do it," she said. "I'm not just talking about the football field. I'm talking about the auditorium, the basketball courts, the tennis courts."

Ruder said she could not think of a downside to Golden Belt Bank's offer.

"It's funds in our pocket. It's free funds. To me, that's positivity for the community and positivity on for Hays High School," she said.

Board member Jayme Goetz said she has talked to community members, teachers and coaches about the facility naming issue. She said those people had reservations, but indicated they would approve of naming rights if the price was right.

Goetz said she thought money raised from naming fields should be designated for turf replacement, and the price for those naming rights should be proportional to the cost of that replacement.

She estimated the cost of replacing the turf at $600,000 to $800,000 every eight to 10 years. She proposed naming rights should cost $35,000 to $40,000 per year.

Board member Meagan Zampeiri-Lillpopp said she believed a policy on naming rights was necessary.

"I am interested in the conversation," she said.

Board member Allen Park said, "If it's worth doing, it should be done right."

"This is policy, and that's our job. I think it should be fair. I think we should give the opportunity to everybody somehow," he said.

Board President Curt Vajnar said he did not think the board had a deadline for making decisions on naming rights. The bank has a deadline, he said.

"The naming of USD 489 facilities belongs to the citizens of Hays, not a business or entity. ... At the end of that end zone, it says Hays. It does not say Hays High School. It belongs to all of us."

Vajnar said he did not think the bank was offering enough for the naming rights for a 10-year contract. He also said he thought all businesses and entities should have the same opportunity to have naming rights, as Park discussed.

He echoed Goetz's comments, saying any money coming from the naming rights of the fields should be designated for field maintenance.

Board Vice President Ken Brooks said he did not think Golden Belt Bank had any ill intentions when making the donation offer.

"They were trying to help our community and help our school district," he said.&nbsp;

Brooks said everything the rest of the board was asking for in the contract was included, except for the donation paying for the full replacement of the turf.

He said the community members he has spoken to have been in favor of accepting the bank's donation.

"I get you may feel this is not enough, but this is a generous offer," Brooks said.

He said the football season was starting, and Golden Belt Bank was the only entity that came forward with such a donation offer.

"I get that we want to have a policy going forward, but I don't think that this is a bad plan," Brooks said. "When I look at what they proposed, I don't see any red flags in there."

Vajnar said he had spoken to officials at the bank, and he believed there was no ill will between the district and the bank.

&nbsp;"If it's worth that to them now, it will be worth it to them three or four months from now," Vajnar said, "Just because they were first doesn't mean it's theirs."

Hays USD 489 postpones naming rights decision, despite bank's deadline

&nbsp;Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Hays Police Department will partner with the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau to present “Pedal Patrol in the Park,” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, in Aubel Bickle Optimist Park at 30th&nbsp;and Sherman Ave.

The goal of the event is to promote bike and scooter safety among young riders, with emphasis on learning correct helmet use and rules of the road for bicycles and scooters.

Events will include rides around the park with the HPD Bike Patrol and Hays Area Bicyclists, along with parent/toddler rides and bicycle seat safety checks for those who ride with a grown-up.&nbsp;

Children aged 0-13 will be encouraged to bring their scooters, bikes, trikes, Little Tikes cars, skateboards – whatever wheels they ride – to the event. Parents are also encouraged to bring their bikes.&nbsp;

A limited number of bicycle helmets will be given away, thanks to a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Heartland Healthy Living Fund of the Heartland Community Foundation.

“This will help us further our goal of improving public safety,” said Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler. “A helmet will help a child form a lifelong healthy habit of being safe every time they ride.”

Attendees can enjoy food trucks, music, games, and bike safety activities. Pfonz’s Smokehaus, The Local, Frozen Frog, and Suck It Up Bubble Cup are scheduled to be at the event.

Story times with the HPD and the Hays Public Library Bookmobile will take place at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Other activities include safety obstacle courses, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/76c208bb-a6aa-4e68-9115-5092bb6f74a1">safety sessions with HPD Bike Patrol officers</a>, the Fort Hays State University MakerVan, yard games, volleyball, basketball, and bicycle safety checks with Precision Valley Golf and Bike Center.

There will be various giveaways and a raffle for three bicycles and one scooter courtesy of Hays Walmart.&nbsp;Raffle tickets can be earned by participating in the safety events throughout the day.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and coolers to the event, but no glass bottles are allowed.&nbsp;Pets on leashes are allowed but owners must clean up after their pets.

For details and updates on this event, check the Community Events calendar at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.visithays.com/">www.VisitHays.com</a>&nbsp;or search Facebook for the event “<a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=pedal%20patrol%20in%20the%20park">Pedal Patrol in the Park.</a>”

Pedal Patrol event focuses on bike, scooter safety

DOWNS — The Kansas Storytelling Festival is holding three qualifying events for the 2026 Tall Tales storytelling contest. 

Anyone (amateur) is welcome to enter these preliminary events to become one of four finalists at the Storytelling Festival on April 24-25, 2026 in Downs. All qualifier events are free to attend.

The first qualifier will be held Saturday, September 13 at the Tonganoxie Community Historical Society, 201 W. Washington St., Tonganoxie, beginning at 5:00pm. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tonganoxieartscouncil.org/copy-of-story-telling-festival">Art Events &amp; Workshops | Arts Council</a> Following the Tall Tale contest at about 7:35 p.m., Professional Storyteller Paul Strickland will perform.

The second qualifier will be held Saturday, September 20 at the Mid-America All-Indian Center, 650 N. Seneca St., Wichita, from 1:00-3:00 p.m. Following the contest, previous Kansas Tall Tale champions and historical Legends will perform. Register by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kansasstorytelling@gmail.com">kansasstorytelling@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or contacting Mike at 785-545-5285.

The final qualifier will be held in Downs, the “Storytelling Capital of Kansas” on Saturday, October 11, at the Zion Lutheran Church, 1018 Blunt Street, Downs. The Downs event begins at 7:00 p.m. Register by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kansasstorytelling@gmail.com">kansasstorytelling@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or contacting Mike at 785-454-1177.

A tall tale is a unique form of American Story Telling in which the narrator usually has a part in the story. Telling a tall tale uses exaggerated detail describing things larger than they really are.&nbsp; A tall tale is a story based on a fact, or facts, and filled with unbelievable elements told as if they were true and factual. A tall tale has just enough truth to make a good story and to incite the imagination. 

Professional storytellers cannot compete. 

Information and rules for the Tall Tale Competition are posted at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://kansasstorytellingfestival.com/">kansasstorytellingfestival.com</a>&nbsp;

Interested individuals can enter any of the events, or all of them if not selected as top qualifier. For more information or to register for each event, please go to the Kansas Storytelling Festival website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/">https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/</a>&nbsp;or the Kansas Storytelling FaceBook page at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasStorytellingFestival">https://www.facebook.com/KansasStorytellingFestival</a>.

Storytelling festival's Tall Tale preliminaries begin Saturday

By KAREN MADORIN Hays Post

You’d think a gal who’s celebrated 70 summers would know bumble and honey bees are very different creatures. 

Both are bees but live entirely different lifestyles. Compare them to city and rural residents or people from Alaska and Florida. Until recently, I never considered their differences other than to note one was fuzzier and bigger.

Because we planted more flowers this year, scores more bumble bees zip through our airways, flitting from one blossom to another. Numbers increased enough we may need bee traffic control to prevent wrecks. 

That observation awakened the one time four-year-old-me full of questions needing answers. What do they eat, where do they live, are they like honey bees only bigger, and so on. Once my curiosity fired up, I scoured one article after another to learn these unique creatures are very different from honey bees that share their territory.

Honey bees are smaller with lighter coloring. Often, over a thousand live year-round in above ground hives either man-made or bee-constructed and filled with complex hexagonal wax combs designed to store honey. This labor-intensive lifestyle ensures colonies survive winters to emerge each spring. 

Workers and drones specialize in collecting pollen and nectar, organizing tidy hives and combs, and nurturing expanding populations. It can take seven or more honey bees to harvest nectar from one flower. To succeed, colonies must function as a fine-tuned organization.

Bumble bees, larger, fuzzier, and more intensely colored than honey bees operate with an entirely different mindset. Their colonies are much smaller than honey bees’. As few as 20 to possibly 400 share a hive. Drones and workers live only one season and die before winter. Only the queen survives 'til the next year so bumble bee hives exist for only one season. 

The queen doesn’t over-winter at that site. She scouts a sheltered location where she hibernates and incubates fertilized eggs 'til emerging the following spring. She then establishes a new hive in either a log or tree cavity or in an abandoned animal hole in the ground, lays eggs, and collects enough pollen to get that first hatch started.

The initial emergents are all female and once mature, care for the following hatches which turn into drones and worker bees. Bumble bees make honey, but since they don’t live through the winter, they don’t store it. They produce enough to survive from week to week, tucking it in little wax pots stashed around comb-less, disorganized hives.

Only females sting, and unlike honey bees, they don’t lose their stinger after they use it so they can wreak havoc again. 

Males have no stinger so outdoor-lovers who can identify carriers of XY chromosomes can relax when sizable, fuzzy, yellow and black dudes do a fly-by. No squealing or evasive tactics necessary.

Where it takes multiple honey bees to harvest pollen and nectar from a flower, bumble bees are more efficient. One latches onto a blossom’s anther and flaps its wings. The resulting vibration loosens pollen so the bee can harvest it, or it pollinates nearby blossoms. One researcher mentioned greenhouses utilize bumble bees to increase tomato production.

Some humans earn specialized degrees to learn everything possible about bumble bees. I prefer to watch them vibrating my flowers. 

That said, I enjoyed the time I spent unearthing facts I should have known years ago.

Karen Madorin is a retired teacher, writer, photographer, outdoors lover, and sixth-generation Kansan.

MADORIN: Things I ought to know

<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/state-farm-weather-window">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three-day weather outlook

WHAT TAX CHANGES ARE IN THE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL?

The One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law on July 4, 2025, brings with it a sweeping package of tax changes and budget measures that will have a broad impact on individuals, families and businesses. The legislation makes permanent several provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), while introducing new incentives for workers and business owners. 

As taxpayers try to make sense of what’s changed, many are asking practical questions:&nbsp;Will I pay less in taxes? What do the changes mean for my retirement or business planning? And how long will these provisions last?&nbsp;

One of the most notable elements of the bill is the extension and, in some cases, expansion of tax cuts for individuals and small businesses. The lower individual tax rates enacted under the TCJA, which were originally set to expire in 2025, have now been made permanent. This offers continued relief for middle-income earners and provides more predictability for long-term financial planning. The standard deduction remains high, reducing the number of people who itemize and simplifying tax filings for millions of Americans.&nbsp;

For business owners, this bill offers more than tax simplification. It creates actionable planning opportunities across multiple areas: entity structuring, equipment investment,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.adamsbrownwc.com/services/retirement-plans/">retirement planning</a>&nbsp;and even employee compensation strategies.

FOR BUSINESSES: KEY TAX BREAKS &amp; COMPLIANCE CHANGES

Bigger Tax Incentives for Investment and Expansion

The bill introduces or expands several provisions aimed at encouraging capital investment, manufacturing and innovation:&nbsp;

100% Bonus Depreciation Made Permanent. Now retroactive to qualifying property purchased or placed in service on or after Jan. 19, 2025. Section 179 Expensing Limit Increased. Businesses can now deduct up to $2.5 million in qualifying property (up from $1.16 million limit 2023 level). The deduction begins to phase out at $4 million in asset cost. New Deduction for Qualifying Production Property. Allows 100% expensing of structures used in manufacturing. Applies to construction that begins between Jan. 19, 2025, and Jan. 19, 2029, if placed in service before Jan. 1, 2031. R&amp;D Expensing Restored for Small Businesses.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/expanding-rd-tax-credits-kansas/">Domestic R&amp;D </a>costs&nbsp;can now be expensed immediately for businesses with gross receipts under $31 million. These businesses may also retroactively deduct expenses from tax years beginning after Dec. 31, 2021. Businesses with average gross receipts under $31 million can begin expensing these costs in 2025. Also, large business taxpayers with R&amp;D expenses after 2021 and before 2025 may deduct remaining expenses over a one- or two- year period, beginning in 2025. Advanced Manufacturing Credit. Increases from 25% to 35%, incentivizing U.S.-based production facilities.&nbsp; Paid Family and Medical Leave Credit. Made permanent, providing continued support for employers offering leave benefits. Qualified Small Business Stock (Sec. 1202) Exclusion Expanded.&nbsp; For stock acquired after enactment, gain exclusions increase: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;50% if held for three years &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;75% if held for four years &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;100% if held for five years or more Opportunity Zones and New Markets Tax Credit. Both made permanent to support community investment.&nbsp; Farmland Sale Deferral (Sec. 1062). Tax from farmland sales to a qualified farmer can now be paid in four annual installments. Interest Exclusion for Ag Loans. Allows a 25% exclusion of interest received on loans secured by agricultural land. The borrower’s deduction is reduced proportionally. Percentage of Completion Exception. Certain residential construction contracts are now exempt from this revenue recognition method, helping small builders manage taxable income timing. EBITDA-Based Limitation on Business Interest Deduction Reinstated (IRC Sec. 163(j)). The bill permanently reinstates the EBITDA-based (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) formula for calculating the business interest expense limitation. This replaces the more restrictive EBIT-based standard that had been phased in. This change provides broader deductibility for leveraged businesses. Modifications to the Excess Business Loss Limitation. The legislation also includes technical and structural changes to the excess business loss calculation, offering additional clarity and predictability in tax planning for pass-through owners and investors. QBI Deduction Expanded. The 20% deduction is now permanent and adds a $400 minimum deduction for taxpayers with at least $1,000 in qualified business income from active participation.

WORKFORCE &amp; CHILDCARE INCENTIVES

Employer Childcare Credit Increased Rises from 25% to 40%, up to $600,000 annually—encouraging more employers to offer on-site or subsidized childcare solutions.&nbsp;

REPORTING &amp; COMPLIANCE CHANGES&nbsp;

1099-K Threshold Restored Returns to the previous $20,000 and 200 transaction threshold, reducing the burden on casual sellers and small e-commerce businesses.&nbsp; 1099-NEC/MISC Threshold Increased Starting in 2026, reporting is only required for non-employee payments of $2,000 or more (indexed for inflation). This change may reduce the number of 1099s businesses must issue. ERC Compliance Tightened The Employee Retention Credit program now includes stricter claim deadlines and new penalties for non-compliance.&nbsp; New 1% Remittance Transfer Tax Applies to certain outbound cash transfers, such as money orders or cashier’s checks. Withdrawals from bank accounts or credit cards are excluded.&nbsp; SSN Requirements for Education Credits Taxpayers must provide a valid SSN to claim the American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning Credits.

CLEAN ENERGY TAX CREDIT PHASE-OUT&nbsp;

Most Clean Energy Credits Sunset by 2026–2028 This includes credits for electric vehicles, solar panel installations and home energy upgrades.&nbsp; Clean Fuel Production Credit (45Z) Extended through 2029, maintaining incentives for low-carbon fuel producers.&nbsp;

FOR INDIVIDUALS: LOWER RATES AND NEW DEDUCTIONS

TAX RATES AND DEDUCTIONS Permanent Lower Tax Brackets The TCJA's individual tax brackets are now permanent. Annual adjustments for inflation will continue.&nbsp; Higher Standard Deductions for 2025 &nbsp; &nbsp; $15,750 – Single &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;$23,625 – Head of Household&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;$31,500 – Married Filing Jointly SALT Deduction Cap Temporarily Increased The state and local tax deduction cap is raised to $40,000 for 2025, increasing by 1% annually through 2029. A phaseout begins for incomes over $500,000. Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) Exemption Increased Now permanently set at $500,000 for single filers and $1 million for joint returns, indexed for inflation.&nbsp;

Child Tax Credit Increased to $2,200 per child in 2025. The refundable portion of $1,400 is now permanent.&nbsp; Child &amp; Dependent Care Credit Rises to 50% of eligible expenses. Adoption Credit Now up to $5,000 and fully refundable. Dependent Care Assistance Exclusion from income raised from $5,000 to $7,500.

SENIOR BENEFITS AND RETIREMENT PLANNING

Temporary Senior Deduction (2025–2028) A $6,000 deduction is available for individuals age 65+ with modified adjusted gross income under $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers). This helps shield Social Security income from federal tax. Estate &amp; Gift Tax Exemption Increased Starting in 2026, the exemption rises to $15 million per individual and $30 million per couple, indexed for inflation.&nbsp;

OTHER NOTABLE INDIVIDUAL PROVISIONS

Mortgage Interest Deduction Cap Made Permanent Limited to interest on up to $750,000 of mortgage debt. Casualty Losses Expanded Now includes losses from certain state-declared disasters. Charitable Giving for Non-Itemizers A new above-the-line deduction is available for up to $1,000 (or $2,000 for joint filers) in charitable contributions. Trump Accounts New savings accounts for children, capped at $5,000 per year. Includes a $1,000 tax credit for children born between 2025 and 2028. Employers may contribute on a tax-free basis. 529 Plan Expansion Distributions now permitted for K–12 tuition, qualified postsecondary credentialing programs and traditional higher education expenses, offering greater&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.adamsbrownwc.com/529-savings-plans/">flexibility for education-related savings</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tip Income Deduction Up to $25,000 in tip income may be excluded for individuals earning under $150,000 ($300,000 joint filers). Overtime Income Deduction Up to $12,500 per person ($25,000 joint returns) of overtime wages may be excluded. Car Loan Interest Deduction Up to $10,000 may be deducted for new U.S.-assembled vehicles, even for non-itemizers.&nbsp;

What This Means for Business Owners: Permanent deductions and accelerated expensing create new opportunities for reinvestment.

Workforce credits and&nbsp;childcare incentives could offset benefit costs.

Compliance relief for 1099s and&nbsp;tax certainty on business income helps with long-term planning. What This Means for you Personally: Lower tax rates and new deductions&nbsp;provide expanded savings potential.

Estate planning thresholds and retirement-related deductions&nbsp;support multigenerational planning.

Temporary exclusions for tips, overtime and car loan interest&nbsp;offer near-term cash flow opportunities.&nbsp;

What to Do Now: Adjust your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/withholding-tax-from-your-paycheck/">tax withholdings</a>&nbsp;and estimated payments.&nbsp;

Evaluate the timing of equipment purchases and charitable giving.

Review employee benefit offerings and payroll systems.

Work with your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/">tax advisor</a>&nbsp;to identify new credits,&nbsp;deductions and compliance responsibilities.&nbsp; Need help interpreting how these provisions apply to your situation?

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">Contact an Adams Brown tax advisor</a>&nbsp;for a personalized analysis of how the One Big Beautiful Bill could impact your business, your family and your future.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ag -<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/after-two-year-delay-farm-bill-enacted-with-passage-of-beautiful-tax-law/">&nbsp;https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/after-two-year-delay-farm-bill-enacted-with-passage-of-beautiful-tax-law/</a> Construction -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/how-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-reshapes-construction-tax-planning/">https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/how-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-reshapes-construction-tax-planning/</a> Manufacturing -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/obbba-tax-update-manufacturers/">https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/obbba-tax-update-manufacturers/</a> Individuals -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrownwc.com/blog/a-new-chapter-in-tax-planning/">https://www.adamsbrownwc.com/blog/a-new-chapter-in-tax-planning/</a>

Hays City Commission to conduct 2026 revenue neutral rate, budget hearings Thursday

The Hays USD 489 school board approved its budget Monday night after conducting budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings.

However, the discussion included some dissent from two of the school board members.

No one offered public comment during either the revenue-neutral rate nor the budget hearings.

The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.43%.

Twenty mills of the property tax levy go to the state and are redistributed on a per-pupil basis. Local school boards have no control over that levy. The amount raised by that levy will increase because the valuation has increased, Hipp said.

The district approved a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year.

The district is losing about $193,000 in state aid for the supplemental general fund, Hipp said, which means the net increase from that fund is only about $80,000.

The district also has an 8 mill capital outlay levy. That has remained the same for many years. The amount raised from the 8-mill levy will increase slightly because the valuation increased.

Taxes on a home valued at $239,000 will increase by about $36 per year, based on the district's mill levy and the increased assessed valuation, according to the school district. (See the chart above.)

An increase in salaries accounted for a significant portion of the budget increase, Hipp said on Monday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/de2764c1-3767-4d5a-8353-888aa39a31cf">The board approved a 2.5% salary increase for all employees in June.</a>

Chris Hipp, assistant superintendent of business services, said the budgeting process begins in February with negotiations. The votes taken in September are the culmination of that process.

"At this stage of the game, the budget is established," he said.

"We continue to refine this budget through project planning and every meeting throughout the year," Hipp said.

Hipp said at this time of year, the district uses an estimated student count to work backward to determine the legal maximum for the budget.

"At this point in time, the money is allocated," he said. "The only plan B would be to spend contingency reserve to do the things that you have already committed to over the last three or four months or ..."

Ruder said if the board refused to approve the budget, she wanted the cuts to be determined that night.

The district is under a deadline to finalize its budget by Sept. 20.

Board member Allen Park said, "You developed the budget with very little input from us. You bring us things to approve, but we are supposed to [explicitly] determine what we are doing to justify raising these taxes."

"I don't think we've done that," he said.

Ruder said, "When have taxes gone down? ... You have had every opportunity to question the administration. I reached out to Chris [Hipp] and Ron [Wilson] several times. Salary is one that we all voted on. Where are you going to cut?"

Park said he was voting against the tax increase because he believed the community had already been taxed enough following the passage of the bond issue.

"We keep taxing, taxing, taxing and not adjusting a little bit," he said.

The vote to approve exceeding the revenue-neutral rate passed 4-2, with Park and board member Jayme Goetz voting against. Board member Derek Yarmer was absent from the meeting.

The budget was approved on a vote of 5-1, with Park voting against.

The board also approved • A bid of $69,328 from KCAV for 55 presentation display panels for Hays Middle School • A contract with The Insurance Guys for the Hays High School Marketing Partnership — Founder Partner package. The Founder Package is priced at $7,500 per year for a three-year term. The business will receive static signage in the Gold auxiliary gym as well as digital advertising.

Hays USD 489 school board passes budget with tax increase

&nbsp;Submit events to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>. Cover photo courtesy Pixabay

Special thanks to <a href="https://www.visithays.com/183/Events">The Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau</a> and<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/"> Fort Hays State University</a> for their contributions to the community calendar.

Community Calendar

Go Truck Go, a free family event, will be on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Early Childhood Connections, 2501 E. 13th across from Hays High School.

Children will get to experience vehicles they see daily. Go Truck Go features an ambulance, fire truck, police car, implements and construction vehicles.

Free food and drinks and free informational booths from area resources.

Go Truck Go to be Sept. 11 at Early Childhood Connections

The Bricks is wrapping up its Brick-by-Brick Campaign. Community members and businesses have one last opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in Downtown Hays before the September 30 deadline to purchase an engraved brick or limestone block for the new Shed Project.

The Shed Project will be a new storage and service facility adjacent to the Downtown Hays Pavilion. This addition is designed to secure event equipment, serve concessions, and host the Downtown Hays Market Manager’s station during community favorites such as the Downtown Hays Market, Christmas Magic on Main Street, and Wines &amp; Steins. Once complete, the Shed will provide much-needed support for year-round events that bring vibrancy and connection to The Bricks.

“We are very excited about this enhancement to Union Pacific Park, one of our most visible and well utilized contributions to Downtown. While events are just part of what we do, last year they brought over 15,000 people to the heart of our community. This project meets an immediate need for those initiatives and the functionality of the pavilion, while staying true to the beautiful architecture of the original railroad depot. None of this progress is possible without the support of our community!,” said Andrew Taylor, board chair of The Bricks (operating as the Downtown Hays Development Corporation, or DHDC).

To participate, visit The Bricks office at 1200 Main Street, Suite 102 in Downtown Hays, or reach out online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.downtownhays.com/">www.DowntownHays.com</a>/pavilion-shed-project. For logo submissions (limestone block donors only), email your file and contact details to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thebricks@downtownhays.com">thebricks@downtownhays.com</a>.

“This campaign is about more than bricks and mortar,” said Lee Ann June, Executive Director at The Bricks. “It’s about the community who believes in Downtown Hays and wants to see it thrive for generations to come.”

The Brick by Brick Campaign officially closes on September 30, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to engrave your name, your business, or your family into the story of The Bricks.

 Brick-by-Brick campaign ends Sept. 30 for Downtown Hays shed project

Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer will be hosting a mass to commemorate the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on Sunday, Sept. 14 at 3:00 p.m. 

 Bishop Jerry Vincke, Fr. Curtis Carlson and Fr. Reggie Urban will be the celebrants.  Music will be provided by Trilogy. 

 Seed wheat will be blessed.  Free will donation BBQ social following mass. 

Feast commemoration Mass Sunday at Holy Cross Church in Pfeifer

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 2900 Canal Blvd., Hays, will have a garage sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13.

The event will be held both inside and outside the church. 

Pastor Ben Houchen said proceeds will go the church’s Feeding Hays ministry and to the church’s youth group.

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church to have garage sale Saturday

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University and the University of Kansas are joining forces in September to present an exciting opportunity for Kansans interested in pursuing higher education: the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sunflowerstatetour.org/">Sunflower State Tour</a>.

Through combined programs in seven locations, prospective students and their families will gain valuable insights into applying and attending a Division 1, Research 1 institution in Kansas. Special sessions for high school counselors will also be offered.

In addition to valuable information, students and their guests will enjoy light refreshments and have the chance to win tickets to the K-State vs. KU football game. Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sunflowerstatetour.org/">sunflowerstatetour.org</a>&nbsp;for more information.

Sunflower State Tour to stop in Colby and Phillipsburg this week

CASA of the High Plains is pleased to announce that Ashley Marie Kingsley has accepted the newly created role of Donor Relations and Public Engagement Manager, effective immediately. In this position, Kingsley will oversee donor stewardship, corporate sponsorships, special events, recurring giving initiatives, and public engagement strategies to expand community support for children across Kansas’ 23rd Judicial District.

“Ashley is a natural connector with a clear vision for building enduring partnerships,” said Jan Johnson, Executive Director of CASA of the High Plains. “This role underscores our commitment to sustained, high-quality advocacy for local children and families. Her energy, professionalism, and heart for service will rally broader support and amplify the voices of children in foster care.”

In her new role, Kingsley will guide donor stewardship and major-gifts strategy while forging mission-aligned partnerships across business, civic, and community circles. Through high-impact events and targeted, data-driven digital campaigns, she aims to transform community enthusiasm into sustained giving and long-term advocacy.

CASA of the High Plains recruits, trains, and supports Court Appointed Special Advocates who work alongside the courts to ensure children in foster care are safe, their needs are met, and their voices are heard. The organization serves children across Ellis, Rooks, Trego, and Gove counties in Kansas’ 23rd Judicial District.

If you’d like more information about volunteering or advocacy, please contact Jan Johnson, Executive Director, CASA of the High Plains at 785-628-8641 or visit our website site at: <a href="https://casaofthehighplains.org/">https://casaofthehighplains.org/ </a>

CASA names new donor relations, public engagement manager

Hays Catholic Schools (Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary) will proudly celebrate the 100th anniversary of Homecoming this September, marking a century of tradition, community, and faith. The milestone event will honor generations of alumni, students, faculty, and families who have carried forward the spirit of Catholic education in Hays since 1908.

“This centennial celebration is not only about looking back at our history,” said Travis Grizzell, advancement director for Hays Catholic Schools, “it’s about giving thanks for the generations who built this community of faith and excellence, and recommitting ourselves to the future of Catholic education in Hays. The cornerstone represents the faith and commitment of those who literally laid the foundation for our beautiful building on this historic campus. The fact that Hays Catholic Schools is here 100 years later speaks volumes about our dedicated alumni and faith community.”

Homecoming Week Schedule of Events <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming">https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming</a>

Monday, Sep. 15 at&nbsp;9:30 a.m.&nbsp;– All-School Mass: Students, faculty, and staff gather for a Mass to open Homecoming week.

Tuesday, Sep. 16 – Float building Day: Each class gathers at its float construction site to prepare for Friday’s parade.

Wednesday, Sep. 17 – Halftime Rehearsal: Band and Homecoming royalty candidates rehearse at Fort Hays State University’s Lewis Field.

Thursday, Sep. 18 – A pep rally will be held at Al Billinger Fieldhouse&nbsp;at 2:30 p.m. to close the school day.&nbsp;Beginning at 7 p.m., a bonfire, blessing, and candidate introductions will take place on campus, with food trucks and snowcones available for students, families, and community members.

Friday, Sep. 19 – Morning: Alumni and guests are invited to tour the TMP-Marian campus.

10:00 a.m.: A Hays Chamber Ribbon Cutting ceremony will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the school’s cornerstone setting and the first Hays Catholic Schools Homecoming in 1925.

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