TMP Marian High School is pleased to announce Homecoming Court 2025!

Pictured above from left to right are Rachel Staab and Caden Dinkel - Rachel is the daughter of Jason ‘93 and Laura Staab.&nbsp; Caden is the son of Danny ‘93 and Jill (Hammerschmidt) Dinkel ‘00.

Jenna Brull and Chase Drennon - Jenna is the daughter of Jeff ‘94 and Julie (Moeder) Brull ‘96.&nbsp; Chase is the son of Brian and Mandy Drennon.

Nicole Schumacher and Carson Liles - Nicole is the daughter of Corey and Heather Schumacher.&nbsp; Carson is the son of Bill and Jamie Liles.

Claire Schippers and William Eck - Claire is the daughter of Troy and Geralyn Schippers.&nbsp; William is the son of Geoff and Mindy Eck.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Addison Watson and Isaac Purinton - Addison is the daughter of Travis and Monica Watson.&nbsp; Isaac is the son of Royce and Megan Purinton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 2025 homecoming king and queen will be crowned at halftime of the homecoming football game on Friday, Sept. 19, at Lewis Field, when the TMP-M Monarchs take on the Phillipsburg Panthers at 7 p.m.&nbsp; Go Monarchs!

For a full list of Homecoming activities, visit: <a href="https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming">https://www.tmp-m.org/o/tmpm/page/homecoming</a>.

TMP-Marian announces Homecoming Court 2025

THOMAS COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Thomas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Malibu driven by Megan Marie&nbsp;Gaede, 36, Hoxie was approaching the intersection of U.S. 24 and County Road 23 four miles east of Kansas 25. The Chevy rear-ended a&nbsp; 2014 Toyota Corolla driven by Horiana Xochitl&nbsp;Garcia Espinoza, 28, Colby, who was slowing down for a turning semi.

EMS transported both drivers to Citizens Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Two hospitalized after NW Kansas rear-end crash

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission approved the 2026 budget with a mill levy increase of 1.96 mills during its Tuesday meeting.

A public hearing provided taxpayers the chance to give input on the general fund and fire district, both of which exceed the revenue-neutral rate. The budget process began in March.

The general fund mill levy increase will bring the total general fund expenditures to $34.7 million.&nbsp;The mill levy increase will require a homeowner with a house appraised at $100,000 to pay $22 more per year, and a homeowner with a house appraised at $200,000 to pay $45 more per year.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/7c57b3c8-1314-4bd7-8501-f559ff7c176d">SEE RELATED STORY: Ellis County Commission discusses final budget draft with mill levy increase</a>

Several residents urged the commission to remain revenue-neutral, warning that tax burdens would be imposed on homeowners and businesses. Resident Mark Hess said the commission was breaking campaign promises to keep spending in check.

"It is imperative for the commission to look back at the budget and to make some of those tougher calls that you guys are elected to do," Hess said. "True leadership means honoring your commitments, holding every budget line to performance standards and having the discipline to say no when necessary."

Resident John Pyle described himself as an “overtaxed citizen,” saying that his property taxes increased from $3,600 to $5,800 over the last five years. He shared valuation numbers and suggested commissioners look at alternative revenue sources.

Darin Myers, county administrator, said the mill levy increase was necessary to prepare for possible federal grant reductions. Commissioner Nathan Leiker emphasized the commission devoted significant time to identifying areas where spending could be reduced.

"We as commissioners spent one day alone, almost 13 hours, going through each department, item by item, justifying costs and adjustments," Leiker said.

Myers said about $770,000 was trimmed during a budget meeting, but some items were later reinstated. Commissioner Neal Younger said while county spending is high, it supports 18 services.

"Whether it be an ambulance, road and bridge, noxious weeds, mental health, that's where a lot of money goes to," Younger said.

Adam Pray,&nbsp; a developer, complimented the commission's efforts but recommended exploring sales taxes to help shift some of the costs to visitors.

Personnel policy change for retiree insurance

The county approved a personnel policy change regarding retiree health insurance, as mandated by a Kansas statute.

The law requires local governments that offer health insurance also to make the coverage available to retirees and their dependents, provided they apply within 30 days of retirement, have at least 10 years of employment with a local government and retired after Dec. 31, 1988.&nbsp;

Coverage ends when the retiree reaches 65 years old, premiums are not paid, or the retiree gains coverage under another employer's plan.

New electronic health record for Ellis County Health Department

The county health department received approval to purchase a new electronic health record system, replacing an outdated one. The five-year purchase price of about $77,100 will be prepaid using Workforce Development Grant funds and will have no impact on the general fund.&nbsp;

A homeowner received approval from the commission to use a county easement in Commerce Estates to build a private road that would provide access to his property. The homeowner will be responsible for funding, building and maintaining the road.

Ellis County Commission approves 2026 budget, mill levy increase

Hays Police Department arrest log: Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 2025

Hays Police Department activity log: Aug. 31-Sept. 6, 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.

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Recent obituaries and service times

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Hays police officers swap squad cars for bicycles, gaining a new view of the streets they patrol.

Hays Police Patrol Corporal Alex Broadway said the bike division focuses on community policing, mainly downtown and around Fort Hays State University.

"We're preventing crimes in and of themselves from us being there," Broadway said. "I like to think that because we're preventing those college parties from overgrowing, we would have prevented college kids from getting overly intoxicated, stumbling out and getting struck by a vehicle."

Bike officers undergo a&nbsp;40-hour training program through the International Police Mountain Bike Association. Dakota Reese, Hays Police patrol sergeant, said this prepares the division to handle any situation.

"The main job of bike patrol at this time of year is in our college areas... you've got 2,000 kids out, there's beer cans, we're hopping curves and moving around illegally parked cars, so that creates its own obstacles," Reese said.

The bike division is most active on weekends, during special events and in warm weather to boost police visibility.

"People are more willing just to come up and chat with us. We're a lot more approachable to members of the community," Broadway said.

Broadway and Reese will participate in Pedal Patrol in the Park at 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at Aubel-Bickle Optimist Park, 30th and Sherman Ave., where they will share safety tips and encourage safe riding in Hays.

"We're hoping for a good time and to have some positive contacts with people in the community," Broadway said.

The event will feature an electric scooter raffle tied to a brief safety presentation, a kids’ safety course, snacks, food trucks and a DJ. A limited number of free helmets will be given away.

Broadway said the bike patrol rides in colder weather with jackets and gloves, but stays off the streets in rain, snow or slippery conditions. Officers typically cover 10 to 15 miles per shift.

According to Broadway, bike patrol officers most often respond to underage drinking, fights and traffic-related incidents. When an arrest is required, a patrol car is called in for transport.

"We can see and hear so much more because we're out there. It's not uncommon for bike officers to catch a DUI and process it," Broadway said.

Broadway said riding a bike does not limit an officer’s ability to serve, as shifts usually finish in a patrol car toward the end of the night. He added the best part of the job is directly engaging with the community.

"Interacting with people who are supportive of what we do, those are some of my favorite moments," he said.

The Hays Police Department launched "Ride Right Hays," a new safety campaign to educate residents on the proper and lawful use of UTVs, ATVs, golf cars, scooters and bicycles.

In addition to Pedal Patrol in the Park, the campaign will also include social media outreach. You can follow the City of Hays Police and Fire on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cityofhayspoliceandfire">Facebook</a>.

Hays Police bike patrol builds community connection on two wheels

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

ROOKS COUNTY —A pair of small earthquake shook portions of northwest Kansas since Friday.

Just before 10p.m. Monday, a quake with a magnitude 3.6 rattled rural Rooks County approximately 3 miles northwst of Stockton, according to the Kansas Geological Survey.

Just before 5a.m. Friday, the Kansas Geological Survey reported a 2.3 magnitude quake in the same area. There are no reports of any damage, according to the Rooks County Sheriff's office&nbsp;

Small earthquakes reported in NW Kansas

Fort Hays Tech | North Central is proud to announce that Julie Gross, a Nursing Instructor on our Hays campus, has been honored with the Spring 2025 212° Award.

Each semester, Fort Hays Tech | North Central awards a member of our staff or faculty with a 212° Award. The purpose of the 212° Award is to recognize individuals who demonstrate superior dedication and the willingness to go that extra degree! 212 degrees is the boiling point of water. Everyone has watched it happen as water goes from still to rumbling when it reaches that threshold. That boiling point is a transformation point. Recipients of this award are employees who voluntarily go above and beyond the call of duty and are transformational leaders at the college. These employees demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to their profession, students, fellow employees, and a loyalty to the mission of Fort Hays Tech | North Central.

The recipient of 2025 Spring 212° Award is Julie Gross. Julie is a Nursing Instructor on our Hays campus.

Julie exemplifies the spirit of the 212° Award. Her innovative teaching methods, compassion-driven mentoring, and steadfast support for her students and peers have made a profound impact on the college’s health education mission.

President Eric Burks remarked, “I am very pleased Julie Gross was selected by her peers for this recognition; she is very deserving. I know it was special for Julie to know that her colleagues think so highly of her, and it makes it even more special since she is an alumnus of the college (from two different programs)! Ms. Gross fully understands and appreciates the impact Fort Hays Tech | North Central has had on her life, and that seems to motivate her as she instructs her students.”

About Fort Hays Tech | North Central

Fort Hays Tech | North Central is committed to empowering students through rigorous programs, experienced faculty, and a supportive learning environment that encourages personal and professional growth.

For more information about the 212° Award, or the Fort Hays Tech | North Central nursing program, please visit <a href="https://www.fhtechnc.edu/">www.fhtechnc.edu</a> or contact admissions@fhtechnc.edu.

Fort Hays Tech | North Central staff member wins 212° award

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District will be hosting our annual make and take pizza night in honor of National Family Day on September 29 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at our office located at 601 Main Street in Hays.

Family Day is a national effort to promote family dinners. 

Research shows family dinners are a great way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors as reported by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Colombia University. 

Not only are family dinners a way to bring families together but young children can also learn valuable life skills.

 Cooking is an important life skill for children to learn before they grow up and are out on their own. Knowing how to plan menus, budget for food, and follow a recipe provides many skills that will help children as they become adults. 

Knowing how to cook meals versus heating something up from a box can also aid our children’s health. Processed foods often have many added ingredients that can lead to health issues. 

Having children help in the kitchen teaches them math skills and to follow directions. 

When children help prepare meals, they tend to have more motivation to eat the meal as well. If they have taken part in preparation, they are more likely to try new foods and recipes. This can be particularly helpful for picky eaters!

I want to give a shout out to our sponsors. Papa Murphy’s donates the pizza crusts and Kiwanis gives a donation to help buy toppings as well as fruit and vegetables. Than you very much! We couldn’t hold this night without their continued support every year!

Come join us for a low cost and healthy meal that you can make with your children. Please RSVP and pay the $3 per pizza at 601 Main Street by Sept 15. We are continuing online registration this year. Use the link: <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9QtmPvRQZVDw2Ro">bit.ly/cottonwood-pizzanight2025</a>

I hope to see many of you there. If you ever have any questions or would like a program about healthy eating, food safety, or staying active, for any age group, please reach out to me. You can find me at our office on Main Street or you can call or email anytime.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Family Pizza Day 2025 promotes family dinners

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

&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

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

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.

5:30 p.m.: Homecoming Parade, beginning at the TMP-Marian campus and traveling down Main Street. Parade entry form&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://form.jotform.com/251625567433157">https://form.jotform.com/251625567433157</a>

Evening: Halftime of the football game will feature the crowning of Homecoming royalty, recognition of Homecoming Grand Marshals, and presentation of the Point of Light Award and Distinguished Alumni Awards.

Saturday, Sep. 20 at 11 a.m.&nbsp;– Morning: A Mass for deceased alumni will be held in the Marian Chapel.

Noon: The traditional Dutch Lunch will be served in the TMP-Marian Dining Hall, offering fellowship and reunion among generations of alumni.

For more information, please contact the TMP-Marian Advancement Office at 785-625-9434 or advancement@tmpmarian.org.

Hays Catholic Schools to celebrate 100th anniversary of homecoming

Hays High School will celebrate its first homecoming in the new facility Sept. 22-27.

Theme: Down the Rabbit Hole (Alice in Wonderland)

Parade:&nbsp;Friday, Sept. 26, Line up: 4 p.m., Parade starts at 5 p.m. (Parade Application:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://forms.office.com/r/9NefGZ6HfM">https://forms.office.com/r/9NefGZ6HfM</a>)

Homecoming Assembly:&nbsp;Friday, Sept. 26, noon

Homecoming Game:&nbsp;OUR FOOTBALL STADIUM, vs. Garden City, 7 p.m., Coronation: Halftime

Homecoming Dance:&nbsp;Saturday Sept. 26, 8-10:30 p.m., cost: $10

Hays High to celebrate first homecoming in new school Sept. 22-27

Reach out to friends, family, classmates, and teammates and make plans to attend Fort Hays State University’s Homecoming!

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.7LNxDHQVpzCjONIZ4OYIqjnQfcs-2FPVg5bO-2FQFSxaOcioJBHNcJIdkiMuGXDWF7ZawFUG_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOS1G1YVlK0jBWCZJvNQL7smIRX-2FeRZYTIJSWfF5wfJ-2FbBIWv-2FSVU4K766OsVtESPsJxRmiZuON2k0Iygny8gg4P24tljKPDR-2BfvJWIEZfXIWJjdBZ96Mo5i7aXRV8W-2BDIwct34kkJWt-2FIzfrPjvtPhmT17GGa9LqSg0xwqbJMHhH0YjxuuGp1SyanhzAluBPk7KZ2y9c9SYICSZKDlBpGO3UN2Fz2P966mbN8WUaIBpXg7wnj6WoWf1zEYkNCOg9C">FHSUhomecoming.com</a>&nbsp;for additional information and to register for a variety of weekend events set for Friday, September 26, and Saturday, September 27.

Several Homecoming events require advanced registration, which closes September 12, so don’t delay. Take a look at the schedule below&nbsp;and contact the FHSU Alumni Office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4430 with any questions.

• Chamber Chat: Promoting FHSU Homecoming and Oktoberfest – FHSU Robbins Center, Eagle Communications Hall, 9 a.m.

Monday, September 22 – Saturday, September 27

• Online Homecoming –&nbsp;FHSU.edu/homecoming/online

• Royalty Meet and Greet and Treats – FHSU Quad, 11 a.m.

• Homecoming Golf Tournament* – Smoky Hill Country Club, Registration 8 a.m., Shotgun Start 9 a.m. (Registration Full) • Tiger Bonfire – FHSU Robbins Center, 7:30 p.m.

• FHSU Major Gift Announcement – FHSU Library Front Lawn, 9 a.m.. Alumni Award Recipients&nbsp;Meet and Greet – Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. • Oktoberfest – Hays Municipal Park, visit&nbsp;OktoberfestHays.com&nbsp;for details. • Half Century Club Social, Luncheon, and Induction* – Memorial Union, Ballroom, Social 11 a.m., Luncheon and Induction, 12 p.m. Price for luncheon is $25. • Campus Walking Tour – Gather in Memorial Union, Sunset Atrium, 1:30 p.m. • Class of 1965 and 1975 Optional Campus and Hays Bus Tour – Gather in Memorial Union, Sunset Atrium, 2 p.m. • Alumni and Friends Awards Banquet* – Memorial Union, Ballroom, Social 6 p.m., Dinner 7 p.m. Price for banquet is $30.

• Class of 1965 and 1975 Reunion Breakfast* – Memorial Union, Stouffer Lounge, 8:30 a.m. Price for breakfast is $20.

• Student Government Association Reunion Breakfast* – Memorial Union, Ballroom, 9 a.m. Price for breakfast is $20. • Campus Walking Tour – Gather in Memorial Union, Sunset Atrium, 9:30 a.m. • Oktoberfest – Hays Municipal Park, visit&nbsp;OktoberfestHays.com for details. • Parade – The Bricks in Downtown Hays, 11 a.m. • Student Government Association Come-and-Go Reunion Reception – Memorial Union, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. • Tiger Tailgate* – Lewis Field Stadium, East Lawn, 5 p.m. Price for the tailgate buffet is $20. • Sigma Sigma Sigma Reunion Tailgate* (Celebrating 100 Years at FHSU) – Lewis Field Stadium, East Lawn, 5 p.m. Price for the tailgate buffet is $20. • Football Game – Lewis Field Stadium, FHSU vs. Missouri Western, Pre-Game 6:30 p.m., Kickoff 7 p.m. Purchase game tickets from FHSU Athletics by phone at 785-628-4050, online at FHSUathletics.com, or at the gate.

*Denotes events that require advanced registration prior to September 12 by visiting&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.EWtdXdo3nx3t8ZlvSfKX0VaYir6tJ6nKlfv5tq3B579f2v-2FJqQC49eO0U0kTvvId9uKI_1ix3pnygukYWZfKiCJpm8BsHsayWXlw0ucteiDEo46fRc0p9DVWJmv2prlqkbHR6S2dsrJiXPEopagJAn55fgrGOya21Ubchf288oY8AFP4iYaBJwhylwdd5l9F7UOfOS1G1YVlK0jBWCZJvNQL7smIRX-2FeRZYTIJSWfF5wfJ-2FbBIWv-2FSVU4K766OsVtESPsJxRmiZuON2k0Iygny8gg4MhMai7NorDHVuBgq0ZLOn4It66-2BTYdo-2B5-2BXhOh9UtgpjeR6UxNbPtL46XWfFyuVBPOxAFNO1AbIMkbjWORqt1oN5syztueK-2BLp8SEbFCCW-2BO4ZBsYTBmJBFiK-2BFT98Xgue4gKLm4WoeEJ5j-2B4SwKF2OV-2FLujolcZuUo8pANeRL3">FHSUhomecoming.com</a>

Victor E. Apparel &amp; Gift Co. in the Memorial Union will be offering a 20% discount in-store on all regularly priced items the Friday and Saturday of Homecoming for Tiger fans looking for new FHSU apparel and memorabilia.

For questions, contact the FHSU Alumni Office at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:alumni@fhsu.edu">alumni@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-628-4430.

FHSU announces Homecoming 2025 activities, events

Us 4 U, a student organization at Fort Hays State University, will host a “Prayer Service for Peace” at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, at the Methodist Campus Center, 507 Elm St.

Led by local religious leaders, the service will include reflections, scripture readings, prayers, and silent meditation. Together, we will light candles and pray for peace, justice, and unity around the world. 

Everyone is welcome to join this time of hope and reflection.

‘Prayer Service for Peace’ to be held at Methodist Campus Center

By&nbsp; LINN ANN HUNTINGTON Special to Hays Post

The Healing Hearts Grief Support Group will have a special guest speaker at its next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18. 

The meeting will be in the new Hays Senior Center location inside the Schmidt Community Center, 2510 Canterbury Dr. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m. Attendees are asked to use the south entrance. The meeting is free and open to the public.

Kenneth Windholz, a clinical psychotherapist, will speak on the topic “Visitation Dreams.” Windholz teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in the Psychology Department at Fort Hays State University. He has authored book chapters and articles on neuropsychology. He has served as the president of the Kansas Association of Masters in Psychology, is the current president of the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Kansas Board of Directors, and serves as the faculty sponsor for NAMI on the FHSU campus.

Dr. Kate McGonigal, the Healing Hearts group facilitator, said Windholz’s appearance is a celebration of the “new beginning” for Healing Hearts. It did not meet while the Senior Center was relocating to its new home. The group will continue meeting at 6:30 the third Thursday night of each month in its new home, she said.

Healing Hearts is a grief support group for adults who have lost a loved one. McGonigal said, “We want anyone who is experiencing grief to join us for one meeting, or for however meetings they wish, as they navigate the road to coping with the death of someone they loved. We focus on healing and coping from close personal losses.”

McGonigal is an associate professor of sociology at Fort Hays State University, where she has taught since 2004. She teaches the Death &amp; Dying class at FHSU, with an emphasis on caregivers and caregiving.&nbsp;

More information about the Healing Hearts group is available by contacting her at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:klmcgonigal@fhsu.edu">klmcgonigal@fhsu.edu</a>.

Grief support group to have guest speaker Sept. 18

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/annie-ma">ANNIE MA</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;TODD FEATHERS

WASHINGTON (AP) — A decade-long slide in high schoolers’ reading and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/math-science-stem-girls-a80f44c20b1724bba6953756ecc862cd">math</a>&nbsp;performance persisted during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 12th graders’ scores dropping to their lowest level in more than 20 years, according to results released Tuesday from an exam known as the nation’s report card.

Eighth-grade students also lost significant ground in science skills, according to the results from the National Assessment of Education Progress.

The assessments were the first since the pandemic for eighth graders in science and 12th graders in reading and math. They reflect a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/naep-test-scores-nations-report-card-school-60150156e41b8518be3b6eabf77d0c66">downward drift</a>&nbsp;across grade levels and subject areas in previous releases from NAEP, which is considered one of the best gauges of the academic progress of U.S. schools.

“Scores for our lowest-performing students are at historic lows,” said Matthew Soldner, the acting commissioner of the National Center for Education Statistics. “These results should galvanize all of us to take concerted and focused action to accelerate student learning.”

While the pandemic had an outsize impact on student achievement, experts said falling scores are part of a longer arc in education that cannot be attributed solely to COVID-19,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/online-school-covid-learning-loss-7c162ec1b4ce4d5219d5210aaac8f1ae">school closures</a>&nbsp;and related issues such as heightened&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/school-attendance-sick-day-chronic-absenteeism-270f6d07041760e90bf84d9f4108aa4d">absenteeism</a>. Educators said potential underlying factors include children’s increased screen time, shortened attention spans and a decline in reading longer-form writing both in and out of school.

The dip in reading scores appeared alongside a shift in how English and language arts are taught in schools, with an emphasis on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/books-reading-high-school-english-class-c8d9f39773268a6e8c79cb0b3c78d3c1">short texts and book excerpts</a>, said Carol Jago, associate director of the California Reading and Literature Project at UCLA. As a high school English teacher 20 years ago, Jago said it was common for her high school students to read 20 books over the course of a year. Now, some English classes are assigning just three books a year.

“To be a good reader, you have to have the stamina to stay on the page, even when the going gets tough,” Jago said. “You have to build those muscles, and we’re not building those muscles in kids.”

Education Secretary Linda McMahon said the scores show why the Trump administration wants to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-education-department-scotus-layoffs-student-loans-f24637f2a1d57432f6dc24d082e95b9b">give states more control</a>&nbsp;of education spending.

“Despite spending billions annually on numerous K-12 programs, the achievement gap is widening, and more high school seniors are performing below the basic benchmark in math and reading than ever before,” McMahon said.

House Democrats said the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Education Department will only hurt students. The declines show a need for federal investment in academic recovery and educational equity, said Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia, ranking member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

“Eliminating the very agency responsible for supporting public schools and enforcing civil rights protections of students will only deepen the achievement gaps identified by this assessment,” Scott said.

Fewer students show basic proficiency in math and reading

The test scores show more students are not reaching what would be considered “basic” achievement across subject areas, said Lesley Muldoon, executive director of the National Assessment Governing Board. While NAEP’s definition of “proficient” is a high bar, Muldoon said, it is not an unreasonable one, and it is based on what researchers believe students should be able to achieve by the end of high school.

“These students are taking their next steps in life with fewer skills and less knowledge in core academics than their predecessors a decade ago,” she said. “This is happening at a time when rapid advancements in technology and society demands more of future workers and citizens, not less.”

In reading, the average score in 2024 was the lowest score in the history of the assessment, which began in 1992. Thirty-two percent of high school seniors scored below “basic,” meaning they were not able to find details in a text to help them understand its meaning.

In math, the average score in 2024 was the lowest since 2005, when the assessment framework changed significantly. On the test, 45% of high school seniors scored below “basic” achievement, the highest percentage since 2005. Only 33% of high school seniors were considered academically prepared for college-level math courses, a decline from 37% in 2019.

The high school reading and math assessments, and the eighth grade science test, are given less frequently than the biannual fourth and eighth grade reading tests, which were last released earlier this year. The new scores reflect tests taken in schools around the country between January and March 2024.

The gap between the highest- and lowest-performing students was its widest ever among eighth grade science students, reflecting growing inequality in the American school system. The achievement gap widened also in 12th grade math.

The scores also reflect the re-emergence of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/math-science-stem-girls-a80f44c20b1724bba6953756ecc862cd">gender gap</a>&nbsp;in science, technology, engineering and math courses. In 2019, boys and girls scored virtually the same on the NAEP science assessment. But in 2024, girls saw a steeper decline in scores. A similar pattern occurred in state math assessments, according to an Associated Press analysis.

Schools had largely closed the gender gap in math and science, but it widened in the years following the pandemic as special programs to engage girls lapsed.

On a NAEP survey of students, a shrinking percentage of eighth grade students said they regularly took part in inquiry-based learning activities in the classroom. The pandemic disrupted schools’ ability to create those hands-on learning experiences for students, which are often critical to understanding scientific concepts and processes, said Christine Cunningham, senior vice president of STEM learning at the Museum of Science in Boston.

Still, she noted declines across subjects began well before schools closed in 2020.

“We don’t know exactly what the cause of it is, but it would be incomplete to assume that if we hadn’t had COVID, the score would not have gone down,” Cunningham said. “That’s not what the data showed even before the pandemic.” ___

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/news-values-and-principles/" target="_blank">standards</a>&nbsp;for working with philanthropies, a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ap.org/about/supporting-ap/" target="_blank">list</a>&nbsp;of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Report: US students' reading and math scores at historic lows

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">The Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;granted an unusually quick hearing on President Donald Trump's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-court-ruling-trade-1c5a02ad38597c3629eff5977490813a">sweeping tariffs</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, putting a policy at the center of his economic agenda squarely before the nation's highest court.

The justices will hear the case in November, a lightning-fast timetable by the Supreme Court's typical standards, and rule at some point after that. The tariffs will stay in place in the meantime.

The court agreed to take up an appeal from the Trump administration after lower courts found most of his tariffs illegal.

The small businesses and states that challenged them also agreed to the accelerated timetable. They say Trump's import taxes on goods from almost every country in the world have nearly driven their businesses to bankruptcy. “Congress, not the President alone, has the power to impose tariffs,” attorney Jeffrey Schwab with the Liberty Justice Center said.

Two lower courts have agreed that Trump didn't have the power to impose all the tariffs under an emergency powers law, though a divided&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/opinions-orders/25-1812.OPINION.8-29-2025_2566151.pdf">appeals court</a>&nbsp;left them in place.

The Trump administration asked the justices to intervene quickly, arguing the law gives him the power to regulate imports and striking down the tariffs would put the country on “the brink of economic catastrophe.”

The case will come before a court that has been reluctant to check Trump’s extraordinary flex of executive power. One big question is whether the justices’ own expansive view of presidential authority allows for Trump’s tariffs without the explicit approval of Congress, which the Constitution endows with the power to levy tariffs. Three of the justices on the conservative-majority court were nominated by Trump in his first term.

While the tariffs and their erratic rollout have raised fears of higher prices and slower economic growth, Trump has also used them to pressure other countries into accepting new trade deals. Revenue from tariffs totaled $159 billion by late August, more than double what it was at the same point a year earlier.

Solicitor General D. John Sauer has argued that the lower court rulings are already affecting those trade negotiations. If the tariffs are struck down, the U.S. Treasury might take a hit by having to refund some of the import taxes it’s collected, Trump administration officials have said. A ruling against them could even the nation’s ability to reduce the flow of fentanyl and efforts to end Russia’s war against Ukraine, Sauer argued.

The administration did win over four appeals court judges who found the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA, lets the president regulate importation during emergencies without explicit limitations. In recent decades, Congress has ceded some tariff authority to the president and Trump has made the most of the power vacuum.

The case involves two sets of import taxes, both of which Trump justified by declaring a national emergency: the tariffs first announced in April and the ones from February on imports from Canada, China and Mexico.

It doesn’t include his levies on foreign steel, aluminum and autos, or the tariffs Trump imposed on China in his first term that were kept by Democratic President Joe Biden.

Trump can impose tariffs under other laws, but those have more limitations on the speed and severity with which he could act.

Fast track: Supreme Court agrees to consider whether Trump's tariffs are legal

CLOUD COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for a violent knife attack in north central Kansas.

Just before 9:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the 200 Block of West 11th Street in Concordia after a report of a victim with a stab wound, according to a media release from Concordia Police Chief Brent Gering.

First responders located a victim with a life-threatening stab wound and multiple defensive wounds. The Concordia Fire Department rendered aid to the victim and transported the victim to North Central Kansas Medical Center. The victim was later transferred to Salina Regional Health Center.

Officers located the suspect, later identified as 39-year-old Martin Santos Ambros. Officers placed him in handcuffs. He then attempted to escape custody and was unsuccessful.&nbsp; The scene was secured and evidence collected. Santos-Ambros is being held in the Cloud County Jail on requested charges of attempted-murder in the 2nd degree-domestic and Felony interference with law enforcement.

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