By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Sen. President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, was in Hays Thursday on the campaign trail for governor in 2026.

Masterson stopped at a couple of locations to meet with constituents to discuss rural revitalization and also visited the Eagle Media Center to speak with the Hays Post.

Masterson began with property taxes. The state removed a state assessment for institutional buildings. That cut about $90 million in taxes.

"Now it is about how the system is put together," he said. "It's going to take a constitutional amendment to change the way we assess to be able to cap the increases to make sure people can sustain it."

"We've seen double-digit increases multiple years in a row," he said.

He said he is also a proponent of elected appraisers because property taxes tend to be lower in communities with appraisers who have more accountability.

Hays school district officials have lobbied for more state funding for special education. <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">Hays USD 489 saw a cost increase of almost $822,000 for special education for the 2025-26 school year.</a>

The state is not paying the percentage required by state statute, which means the balances for those services must come from schools' general funds.

Masterson noted the federal government is also not paying its share toward special education.

The state added $10 million more for special education for the coming year, but that has not bridged the funding gap.

Masterson mentioned the Gannon and other lawsuits regarding state education funding.

"We have been dumping more and more funding into the system," he said, "and in 2024, the courts came out that we met adequate funding."

"I don't think the issue is the volume of money. It's how it's being allocated that's the biggest issue," he said. "It's the formula that drives what gets allocated to each district."

Per-pupil funding has hurt rural districts as they have lost population, Masterson said. Block funding was proposed, but was not passed.

He expressed concerns about how at-risk funding is being allocated, citing issues discovered after state audits.

&nbsp;"I don't think it's about overall dollars, because overall Kansas spends more per pupil than the surrounding states, and we are not getting an outcome that matches that investment," Masterson said.

"There's conservation and property rights. There's a balance between the two. I do think those ultimate solutions need to have a local focus. I have heard Hays has done an incredible job on conservation."

Masterson said he was not aware of the R9 Ranch project, but asked Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, questions about the project.

He said money should be allocated to water projects based on need and not population.

Masterson cited the Mexican border and drugs as sources of violence in the state.

He expressed concerns about the increase in no cash bail.

"People commit a violent crime and just get out on their signature," Masterson said.

Masterson cited a cash bail case out of Johnson County in which a man out on bail after discharging a firearm in a hospital stabbed a manager of a barbecue restaurant.

"We've got to make sure we keep violent people incarcerated," he said.

He said funding should also be prioritized for law enforcement, so communities can have a sufficient number of officers and state highway patrol troopers.

Although judicial selection is not directly an issue in the governor's race, it will come up as a ballot question in 2026.

"We have the least democratic, most secretive way of appointing our Supreme Court justices. It is controlled by five lawyers," Masterson said.

He said it was not a merit-based system and did not reflect the population of Kansas. He said the Kansas Supreme Court justices should be elected.

Masterson discussed the issues with staffing the state mental hospital in Larned due to the rural community where the facility is located.

The state's costs to pay traveling medical staff for the facility have significantly increased.

"We used to spend $10 million on contract nursing. It was $40 million [last year]. That's not sustainable," he said. "There's going to be some hard decisions to be made. We have to move that responsibility to somewhere we have more people to work."

Masterson said he was concerned about the error rate on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which is also known as SNAP or formally known as food stamps.

"It's not just that we are giving the benefit to people who aren't eligible for it, but also processing. There are people who aren't getting processed that are eligible for it and not getting the benefit."

He added, "It's important how a law is implemented and enforced."

In the last budget cycle, Masterson said the Legislature made some increases in Medicaid reimbursements.

He said he did not foresee any expansion of Medicaid.

"Expansion has proven to displace people who are disabled, frail and elderly, low-income mothers and children because you put all these able-bodied people into the system. You have a fixed number of Medicaid providers. It's not saving rural hospitals.

"You don't have to guess the results of Medicaid expansion. You can see it in the states that have expanded, and I think Kansas has proven it made the right decision by not having expanded Medicaid."

Gubernatorial candidate Masterson seeks to cap property taxes

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

With the ongoing federal government shutdown, the subsidy funding for the national Essential Air Service (EAS) program was due to expire at midnight on Sunday.

Hays Regional Airport Director Jamie Salter said Thursday she received the notice&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Transportation on Monday.

Two days later, Salter received an updated memo from the department funding has been found for the subsidies to run through Nov. 2.

Hays Regional Airport is one of five Kansas airports that receive Essential Air Service funding.

The service provides subsidies to air carriers to operate out of rural airports for routes that are not profitable. The service connects small- and medium-sized communities with larger airports.

SkyWest, the regional air carrier serving Hays with daily United flights to Denver, receives an annual $6.5 million subsidy for commercial flight service for Hays.&nbsp;

Dodge City, Garden City, Liberal and Salina airports also utilize the Essential Air Service program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Salter said SkyWest is assessing the situation.&nbsp;

Federal funding for subsidies at Hays Regional Airport in place until Nov. 2

You're probably already aware, but there's some recent controversy regarding the Hays Public Library's book choices: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CoLQpr9XB/">https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CoLQpr9XB/</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CoLQpr9XB/"></a>The above picture is an excerpt from a book being pushed to children and on display in the Hays Public Library.

Many of these terminologies will likely never make it into a Hays Post article for general public consumption, so I'm not sure the logic on pushing this on kids that 'should' be in a very curated learning environment in the public library that is allocated quite a sum of money from taxpayers every year.

Additionally, I assume their board meeting at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15 will be well attended by the public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

LETTER: Controversy in Hays Public Library's book choices

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University president

Brennan Mills is not just a second-year graduate student pursuing his master’s in English online; he is a rising star in the Kansas City educational community. Brennan is currently teaching middle school English at Indian Woods Middle School in the Shawnee Mission School District, where he has made an indelible mark on his students and peers alike.

Having completed his undergraduate degree in May of 2022, he immersed himself in the joys of teaching. Brennan quickly fell in love with his role as an educator. “After the first week, I knew I was in the right spot. I had a great first year, and I was folded into a band of experienced teachers who were outstanding at their jobs,” he recalls. 

That first year was not just about teaching; it was a foundation built on collaboration. His passionate approach to English Education was quickly recognized, and his school nominated Brennan for the prestigious Kansas Horizon Award. This award recognizes promising first-year educators across the state, providing them with a platform to shine.

Brennan's thoughtful and innovative methodologies caught the eye of his principal, Lacy Warren, who praised him for his commitment to fostering connections with students and their families. His weekly communication with parents ensures they stay informed about their children's progress and learning, bridging the gap between home and school. “Mr. Mills goes above and beyond to communicate with families,” said Principal Warren. For Brennan, teaching is more than a job; it's about respect, understanding, and building a strong foundation for each student.

Following the recognition by his district, Brennan's accolades continued to grow. He triumphantly advanced through the congressional district and state levels, ultimately being celebrated at the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) conference. Reflecting on his accomplishments, he shares humbly, “Award or no award, I would have kept doing exactly what I did, but it’s nice to be recognized.”

Brennan’s dedication to education didn’t stem solely from his classroom experiences; it also flourished from his adventures abroad. During the summer of 2025, he embarked on a transformative journey to Alnwick Castle in England as part of a study abroad program.

FHSU Alnwick is a 3-week, on-site, short-term faculty-led study abroad program located at Alnwick Castle in Alnwick, England, Northumberland. Open to all FHSU undergraduate and graduate students with any major, the program includes a 4-week online summer course with the latter 3 weeks taught onsite at Alnwick Castle.

Home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, Alnwick Castle is steeped in history and significance. Built after the Norman conquest, the castle has undergone extensive renovations to accommodate educational residency programs while preserving its historical integrity. 

Renowned for its appearances in beloved films such as Harry Potter, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, and Transformers: The Last Knight, the castle also offers visitors a chance to engage in activities like medieval craft demonstrations, Harry Potter broomstick flying lessons, and archery lessons.

Encouraged by FHSU professor Dr. Perry Harrison, Brennan enrolled in two memorable courses: “Outlaws through the Ages” and a travel writing course led by Lisa Bell, director of our writing center and instructor of English and Modern Languages. The latter was a significant challenge as he ventured outside his usual writing style. “It was a refreshing challenge and an informative dive into a new genre,” he remarked. 

Alongside his wife, Brennan spent three weeks exploring the depths of English culture and heritage, traveling from the historic Stonehenge to the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland.

As he balances his responsibilities as a full-time educator and a student, Brennan appreciates the support from Fort Hays State University. He focuses on old British literature and has taken several courses with Perry Harrison. He has also enjoyed his courses with Dr. Leuschner and Lisa Bell. “It has been rigorous but also par for the course. Having a full-time job, teaching from 8 to 4, and then coming home and working on graduate coursework. The professors have been super accommodating.”

His students are fortunate to have a dedicated teacher who enjoys engaging in discussions. Brennan introduces “Philosophy Fridays” in his 8th-grade English class, where students tackle big ideas through the lens of classical philosophers like Plato. “It’s a highlight of my week. It’s a way to engage with students on a deeper level,” he explains. He believes that middle schoolers possess incredible potential and curiosity, making them uniquely suited for exploring life’s profound questions.

Brennan Mills stands out as a dedicated educator and an inspirational figure for future teachers. With aspirations to continue teaching middle school English, he emphasizes the importance of the journey. “They are on the brink of everything, and the possibilities are limitless,” he says about his students. As he forges ahead in his career and studies, this remarkable educator's future clearly holds great promise.

Embarking on this exciting chapter of his life, Brennan Mills remains deeply committed to shaping the minds of his students and influencing the future of education. Understanding educators' pivotal role in igniting curiosity and building resilience, he states, “I hope to inspire future teachers to embrace their unique voices and foster environments where students feel safe to explore their potential. Education transcends mere knowledge; it is about nurturing critical thinkers and empathetic individuals.”

With a focus on collaboration, creativity, and the limitless possibilities ahead, Brennan aspires to create a legacy that empowers educators and students to dream boldly and strive for excellence. Through his dedication, he embodies the promise of education—a commitment to growth, learning, and the transformative power of knowledge.

Three-day weather outlook

Welcome to Cash Grab! It is your chance to win $250 on Friday's in October!

Keywords are given out at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. You will have 20 minutes to enter the correct keyword that you heard on our radio stations. We will then draw out one winner on Friday morning!

Cash Grab is presented by Robert Brogden GMC in downtown Hays, Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hahn and Mitch Keeley, Tri-Central Office Supply, and Vanderbilt’s of Hays.

💰 ENTER CASH GRAB HERE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN $250!

FHSU daily crime log: Oct. 3-9, 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

ELLIS — Ellis High School Volleyball Senior Night is scheduled for Thursday, October 9. 

The Ellis Lady Railers will host a triangular with TMP and Victoria, starting at 4:30 p.m. Seniors and their parents will be honored before the final match of the evening against TMP.

Volleyball seniors are Ashlyn Kroeger, daughter of Matt and Rachael Kroeger; Sienna Schmidt, daughter of Dick and Shannon Schmidt; Eliana Brull, daughter of Steven and Sheresa Brull; Leah Reed, daughter of Darin and April Reed; Payten Burd, daughter of Shaun and Emily Burd; Kia Mader, daughter of Michael and Mindi Mader; Raegan Jimenez, daughter of Javi and Jessica Jimenez.

Ellis Railers Volleyball Senior Night celebrated today

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

After the death of Charlie Kirk, a Fort Hays State University student is reviving a Turning Point USA Chapter to turn tragedy into dialogue.

"The initial inspiration was definitely what happened on the 10th," Tyler Preisser, president of FHSU Turning Point USA, said. "The biggest reason was that there were so many kids actually interested after what happened."

After Kirk’s assassination, Turning Point USA <a href="https://x.com/tpusa/status/1968825732974399957?s=46">announced on its official X page that by Sept. 18, more than 62,000 high school and college students across the country had requested to start a chapter or join an existing one</a>.

The FHSU chapter has about 45 members and is planning its next event for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Memorial Union. The event will feature an open-mic discussion, inviting students and community members to share and debate their viewpoints respectfully.

On Sept. 30, Turning Point and College Republicans hosted Former Gov. Jeff Colyer, who reflected on his career and outlined his plans for Kansas' future.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/af650bef-0c19-4f73-b418-bded940b0b7a">SEE RELATED STORY: Former Gov. Jeff Colyer shares vision for Kansas at FHSU</a>

The club hopes to start a podcast, bring in more political speakers and have sessions in the quad to engage with others and answer questions.

"It's OK for us to disagree on things and still coexist and be friends. ... It's also to carry on Charlie's legacy and what he was trying to do," Preisser said.

Preisser said Turning Point had a presence at FHSU in the past but faded due to poor management. The group now has several officers and is collaborating with other organizations, including the FHSU Young Democrats, to encourage open discussions.

"We don't just want to have a big meeting with a bunch of people who agree with us. That's not the point," Preisser said. "The point is to share differing opinions, perspectives, beliefs on life and also be able to humanize each other."

Preisser said the surge of interest led him to partner with the FHSU College Republicans to officially register the group, aiming to involve younger students to keep the organization active for years to come. This is Preisser’s final year at the university.

"I have always been involved in the conservative movement, as well as being a Christian. I've watched Charlie Kirk since I was a freshman in high school," he said.

You can follow FHSU Turning Point on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581456397454">Facebook</a>.

Turning Point USA chapter returns to FHSU

Kansas Department of Transportation

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Sept. 17 in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

The following project was approved from the Aug. 29 construction letting.

Ellis County bridge among projects approved by Kansas Dept. of Transportation

&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

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 18 is now offering services in Ellis County and surrounding areas through its new office at Hays First United Methodist Church, 302 W. Eighth St., Room 205, and it is now seeing clients.

Chris Deitering, department service officer, will help to expand access to resources for injured veterans by providing free assistance to veterans and their families, including help with VA and federal claims, survivor and burial benefits, membership assistance, and disaster relief, a news release said.

Deitering’s office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

According to the news release, “The DAV is a nonprofit that remains committed to the nation's injured heroes and former federal employees of all generations to ensure they are not alone on their road to recovery by aiding service members in the transition to civilian life, fighting for their rights on Capitol Hill, and funding rehabilitation programs.”

Disabled American Veterans has new office in Hays church

Thomas More Prep-Marian Parents Teachers Friends Soup Supper is Sunday, October 26 from 4-7 p.m.&nbsp; We will have chili, green bean dumpling soup, sandwiches and cinnamon rolls.&nbsp;Carry out is available. 

It is a free will offering with proceeds to support classroom and student scholarships.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thomas More Prep-Marian PTF Soup Supper fundraiser is Oct. 26

The Hays Public Library is hosting a special book talk with Kansas author George Frazier, as he discusses his latest release,&nbsp;Riverine Dreams: Away to the Glorious and Forgotten Grassland Rivers of America, published by the University of Chicago Press.

The event is set for 2:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, in the HPL Kansas Room.

Prepare for tales of strange riverine forests left over from the ice age, leviathan fish migrations, modern grizzlies roaming the plains, endangered plants as rare as mastodon ivory, an audacious plan to return 10,000 bison to a Great Plains biosphere reserve, and of course, river otter mayhem.

If you thought you knew about the wild lands of Kansas and the surrounding states, get ready for some surprises. Grassland rivers are the most unheralded gems of the entire American backcountry, and Frazier will tell us about the “Grassland River revival” he discovered while exploring eight of the wildest stretches of rivers that remain.

The Hays Public Library is coordinating with Russell Specialty Books and Gifts for this event.

You can find out more about this and other library programs at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://hayslibrary.org/">hayslibrary.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-625-9014.

Hays Public Library to host Kansas author George Frazier Oct. 11

PAWNEE ROCK — To commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Heartland Center for Spirituality and Heartland Farm invite the public to a special viewing of The Doctrine of Discovery: Unmasking the Domination Code, followed including discussion led by Dr. Leo Oliva. The event will take place on Sunday, October 12, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Great Bend Dominican Sisters of Peace Motherhouse.

Dr. Oliva, a retired history professor from Fort Hays State University, will offer historical insights into the Doctrine of Discovery and engage with attendees during a Q&amp;A session.

Originating from 15th-century Papal Bulls, the Doctrine of Discovery laid the groundwork for colonial expansion, legitimizing the seizure of Indigenous lands, the suppression of native cultures, and brutality toward and enslavement of African and other peoples. The Doctrine continues to influence U.S. and international property law to this day.

Dr. Oliva graduated from FHSU before seeking both his master’s degree in American History and doctorate in American Studies from the University of Denver. He is the author of eight books and many articles and served as the editor of the Santa Fe Trail quarterly, Wagon Tracks, for 25 years. Dr. Oliva’s areas of interest include the Santa Fe Trail, frontier military history, the conquest of Indigenous nations and their lands, and Kansas history since 1959. Dr. Oliva was a member of the Humanities Kansas Speakers’ Bureau and has presented more than 400 programs on various historical topics.

 In March 2025, FHSU honored Dr. Oliva with a distinguished professorship in history in his name.

Join us for this free event will be held in the auditorium at the Dominican Sisters of Peace Motherhouse, located at 3600 Broadway, Great Bend. Light refreshments will be available, and voluntary donations are welcome.

To RSVP, please email your name and the number of attendees to ann.axman@heartlandspirituality.org or hfarminfo@oppeace.org.

Retired FHSU professor to discuss Doctrine of Discovery commemorating Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Donation accepted Oct. 17-31 for annual Hays Coat Drive 

Area Pizza Hut fundraisers today for HPD Officer Scott Heimann family 

STOCKTON — Halloween&nbsp;fundraising event at the Rooks County Historical Society Museum Sat., Oct. 18 in Stockton.

Monster Mash Dance-A-Thon, Karaoke, Outside Games

Halloween fundraising event for Rooks County Historical Museum Oct. 18

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Transportation is seeking input from the public on regional transportation priorities at Local Consult meetings across the state in October.

“Local Consult meetings are a great opportunity for those who use our highways to give feedback on the projects and improvements that are most important to them,” said District Three Engineer Jeff Stewart. “That feedback is important to help KDOT prioritize and identify projects that will best serve our communities.”

People in northwest Kansas (District 3) are invited to participate:

COLBY - 9 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Oct. 15: City Limits Convention Center, 2227 S. Range Ave.

Attendees will also hear about transportation investments being made in their area and learn about various grant funding programs available through KDOT.

STATEWIDE VIRTUAL MEETING - 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28:&nbsp;Please register in advance – visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Flocal-consult-2025%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010199b9b4cec1-ff7a1d38-9138-4660-892b-63a458da4a6a-000000/VkUsBu5dZMEJq9oy5o7thBvm6cxFG-rjCzjWj8hCUgY=425">https://www.ksdot.gov/local-consult-2025</a>&nbsp;to attend the virtual meeting.

Local Consult meetings occur every two years to provide Kansans opportunities to ask questions and speak with local, state and federal officials about transportation needs across the state.

For more meeting or project information, please email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOT.Engagement@ks.gov">KDOT.Engagement@ks.gov</a>.

Local Consult meeting in Colby on Oct. 15 to focus on regional transportation priorities

The Healing Hearts Grief Support Group will have its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at the Schmidt Community Center, 2510 Canterbury. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m. Please use the south entrance.

The speaker will be Dr. Tim Davis, chair of the social work department at Fort Hays State University. Davis will discuss grief and its long-term effects and then will facilitate the meeting's share and support session.&nbsp;

The Healing Hearts group welcomes any adult who has lost a loved one of any age. The group’s facilitator is Dr. Kate McGonigal, who teaches in the Sociology Department at Fort Hays State University.

Social work professor to address grief support group

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement continue to investigate after a concerning social media post involving a weapon at Billy Mills Middle School, 2734 Louisiana Street in Lawrence, according to Lawrence Police.

On Thursday morning, Lawrence police, Douglas County Sheriff deputies and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded and in conjunction with USD 497 officials locked down the school, evacuated students to the football field and worked to ensure no students were hiding in the building. Some students did hide when the school was placed on lockdown, according to police.

All students were required to leave personal items for clearance. Police&nbsp; called in a firearm detection dog to search and did not find a firearm.

Police have identified the circumstances that promoted the response and will complete a thorough investigation.

The original post came from Snapchat, and Detectives were working to contact Snapchat to get information on the post, but the person that allegedly posted it had not been identified. The person who reported the post did not know who made the post.

Kansas middle school evacuated as police investigate social media threat 

KANSAS CITY —A tree trimmer injured in accident just after 1p.m. Wednesday in Kansas City, Missouri, remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

The Kansas City Fire Department&nbsp;responded to the reported high-angle rescue and possible electrocution in the 2400 block of Brighton, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. On arrival crews encountered a tree trimmer who had come in to contact with an overhead power line.

The patient was unconscious and suspended by his safety rope. The patient was lowered to the ground and transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Kansas City police responded to the scene as part of protocol and is now investigating the incident due to the casualty, which is significant to the individual not by criminal means, according to Becchina.&nbsp;

Tree trimmer remains in KC hospital after contact with power line

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/thomas-beaumont">THOMAS BEAUMONT</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/laura-ungar">LAURA UNGAR</a> Associated Press

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tylenol-cause-autism-trump-kennedy-0847ee76eedecbd5e9baa6888b567d66">reasserted the unproven link</a>&nbsp;between the pain reliever Tylenol and autism, and suggested people who opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/autism-trump-kennedy-tylenol-acetaminophen-7ebaf91e80b93f605899cefd66ac0eb2">the theory</a>&nbsp;were motivated by hatred for President Donald Trump.

During a meeting with Trump and the Cabinet, Kennedy reiterated the connection, even while noting there was no medical proof to substantiate the claim. He also mistakenly described a pregnant woman’s anatomy and linked autism to circumcision.

“Anybody who takes the stuff during pregnancy unless they have to is, is irresponsible,” Kennedy told Trump and fellow Cabinet members. “It is not proof. We’re doing the studies to make the proof.”

Kennedy has long espoused unconventional beliefs about public health, which have prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/doctor-expresses-concern-over-trump-administrations-autism-initiatives-a86baea3efd845a8860ad89f64191ecd">concern among medical experts</a>&nbsp;that, as health secretary,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cdc-advisers-vaccines-hepatitis-b-covid19-a1fb61ef7e29d93d2828618d890cceb3">he could upend</a>&nbsp;the country’s evidence-based health policies.

Kennedy noted during the meeting that he had seen a TikTok video on Thursday, which he said featured a pregnant woman “gobbling Tylenol” and cursing Trump. “The level of Trump derangement syndrome has now left the political landscape and now in the realm of pathology,” he said. Kennedy also said the woman was taking Tylenol “with a baby in her placenta.”

A fetus develops in the uterus, not the placenta. The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy and provides oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the growing fetus.

Kennedy’s statement came two weeks after he stood with Trump in the White House as the president used his office to promote unproven and, in some cases, discredited ties between Tylenol, vaccines and autism.

Kennedy also said Thursday that infant boys who are circumcised have double the rate of autism because they are given Tylenol after the procedure.

This claim seems to refer to a study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine from 2015, which looked at ritual circumcision and the risk of autism spectrum disorder in boys under the age of 10 in Denmark.

It found that those who had undergone the procedure, which involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis, were more likely to develop autism than other boys in the study. Researchers suggested a potential link might be due to the pain of the procedure. Researchers noted that they had no data on painkillers or anesthetics used, and thus couldn’t address whether Tylenol was linked to autism.

Other researchers pointed out that the Denmark study looked at correlation, not causation. They also point to other studies that found no evidence to support a link between circumcision and autism.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

🎥Kennedy cites a controversial link between circumcision and autism

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jonel-aleccia">JONEL ALECCIA</a> Associated Press

A California company has recalled nearly 245000 pounds (111130.04 kilograms) of pre-cooked pasta linked to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/listeria-chicken-fettucine-alfredo-kroger-walmart-1c3544d1802d7594ca47a7219ffbb111">deadly listeria outbreak</a>&nbsp;and potential contamination of dozens of products sold at grocery stores nationwide.

Nate’s Fine Foods of Roseville, California, recalled thousands of cases of linguine, fettucine, penne and other pastas sold to large producers of heat-and-eat meals and pasta salads on Sept. 25, according to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration notice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/?Event=97697" target="_blank">posted Thursday.</a>

The move came after tests showed that pasta made by Nate’s Fine Foods contained the same strain of listeria found in chicken fettucine Alfredo and meatball linguine products linked to an outbreak that has killed four people and sickened 20 since August 2024. The most recent illness reported&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-06-25/index.html" target="_blank">occurred on Sept. 11.</a>

FreshRealm, the San Clemente, California, company that produced those meals, used genetic sequencing to confirm the link to the outbreak.

Several grocery stores have recalled products made with pasta from Nate’s Fine Foods. The FDA and the U.S. Agriculture Department have warned consumers not to eat the foods and to discard them or return them to stores for refund.

1.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sprouts-farmers-market-recalling-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-because-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">Sprouts Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad</a>&nbsp;sold from the deli service counter or Grab &amp; Go section with best-by dates from Oct. 10 to Oct. 29.

2.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/giant-eagle-recalls-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-due-potential-listeria-monocytogenes-contamination" target="_blank">Giant Eagle</a>&nbsp;smoked mozzarella pasta salad — expiration dates Sept. 30 through Oct. 7.

3.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kroger-voluntarily-recalls-two-varieties-deli-pasta-salads-because-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">Kroger stores</a>&nbsp;recalled deli bowtie and penne pasta salads — sold Aug. 29 through Oct. 2.

4.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/demers-food-group-voluntarily-recalls-select-scott-jons-shrimp-scampi-linguini-bowls-due-ingredient" target="_blank">Scott &amp; Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls</a>&nbsp;9.6-oz — best if used by dates of March 12 and 13 and March 17 and 21 2027.

5.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-meals-containing-pasta-may-be-contaminated" target="_blank">Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettucine Alfredo</a>&nbsp;16-oz plastic tray packages with “best if used by” dates Sept. 20, Sept. 24, Sept. 27, Sept. 28, Oct. 1, Oct. 3, Oct. 5, Oct. 8 and Oct. 10.

6.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-albertsons-companies-voluntarily-recalls-select-store-made-deli-items-containing-bowtie-pasta" target="_blank">Albertsons stores</a>&nbsp;recalled store-made deli pasta salads — sell thru dates from Sept. 8 to Oct. 4.

7.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-meals-containing-pasta-may-be-contaminated" target="_blank">Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs &amp; Marinara Sauce</a>&nbsp;12-oz. — best-by dates of Sept. 22, Sept. 24, and 25 and Sept. 29 to Oct. 1.

8.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/freshrealm-recalls-chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-products-due-possible-listeria" target="_blank">Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine</a>&nbsp;12.3-oz – best-by date of June 26, 2025, or prior; and 32.8-oz — best-by date of June 27, 2025, or prior.

9.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/freshrealm-recalls-chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-products-due-possible-listeria" target="_blank">Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo 12.5-oz</a>&nbsp;— best-by date of June 19 or prior.

Company recalls nearly 245,000 pounds of pasta tied to listeria outbreak

CHICAGO (AP) — Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the chaplain for the men’s basketball team at Loyola Chicago who became a beloved international celebrity during the school’s fairy-tale run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament in 2018, has died, the university announced Thursday night. She was 106.

Health issues caused Sister Jean to step down from her role with the university in August, though the school said she remained as an adviser in the final months of her life.

“In many roles at Loyola over the course of more than 60 years, Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff,” Loyola President Mark C. Reed said.

“While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy,” Reed said. ”Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community and her spirit abides in thousands of lives. In her honor, we can aspire to share with others the love and compassion Sister Jean shared with us.”

Sister Jean — born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, then taking the name Sister Jean Dolores in 1937 — became one of the most talked-about personalities during that 2018 NCAA Tournament. She did countless interviews and even was celebrated with a bobblehead in her likeness.

She published a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-parasports-jean-dolores-schmidt-chicago-06b8d438408e8e6abe08b395e3cd13d7">memoir</a>&nbsp;in 2023, “Wake Up with Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First 100 Years,” sharing lessons she’d learned throughout her life and offering spiritual advice.

The basketball teams at Loyola already had learned many of those lessons. And when that run in 2018 ended with a 69-57 loss to Michigan in the national semifinals, players received immediate consolation from their biggest fan.

“Sister Jean just said it was a great season,” forward Aundre Jackson said after the loss. “She was so happy to be on this run with us and we should keep our heads high and be happy with what we accomplished.”

The players on that team, some of them 80 years younger than Sister Jean, made no secret of what she meant to them, to the program and to the university. And she was not just there to be there, either. The Ramblers insisted she was a real part of their success.

“Sister Jean, she has meant so much to me personally and obviously the team,” Loyola’s Donte Ingram said after hitting one of the biggest shots in school history, a 3-pointer that lifted the team past Miami 64-62 in the first round of the 2018 tournament.

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