By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

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

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Recent obituaries and service times

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

ALLEN COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Allen County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Chevy Malibu driven by Morgan L.&nbsp;Wakefield, 29, Mound City, was northbound&nbsp;on U.S. 169&nbsp;approximately 6 miles south of Humboldt.

The car crossed the center line and struck a 2018 Ram 1500 driven by Shawn M.&nbsp;Petterborg, 52, Stockton, Kansas.

Wakefield was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Petterborg to Wesley Medical Center. EMS transported passengers in the pickup identified as Angie J. Hale, 50; Caitlyn E.&nbsp;Hale, 31, and a 9-year-old girl all of Independence, Kansas, to Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center. Wasefield was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man injured in fatal head-on crash

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Aug. 20, 2025, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

The following projects approved from the July 23, 2025, construction letting include

Nine NWKS counties among August projects approved by Kansas Department of Transportation

By ALICIA BOOR Cottonwood Extension District

Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. 

As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our state. 

Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.

Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step.

 On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators. Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.

Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.

 If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotline at 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7.

 You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.

Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. 

If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention (QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at aboor@ksu.edu and I can help you get trainings set up.

National Resources · https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ · https://www.sprc.org/ · https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention

State Resources · https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas · https://www.ksphq.org/

Local Resources · High Plains Mental Health Center &nbsp; https://hpmhc.com/ · The Center for Counseling and Consultation&nbsp;24/7 Crisis line &nbsp; 620-792-2544 or 800-875-8544&nbsp; &nbsp; https://thecentergb.org/&nbsp;&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis

<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

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a00deee6-a98a-4bca-9b4e-706c1b720888">The Golden Q on Hays Places</a>

It's 5 p.m., and you can't decide where in Hays to eat.

The Hays Post has launched an exciting new product to help you find businesses in your community.

The Hays Place tab, which can be found as a dropdown menu on the Hays Post, is a new video directory of places to shop, play and find services in Hays and the surrounding area.

See videos on featured businesses, find links to websites and Facebook pages for your favorite Hays haunts, and find hours and other key information to connect with businesses.

Hays businesses that wish to purchase a listing on the directory can contact Jordan Schaeffer at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&amp;sca_esv=aebc663c531febdd&amp;rls=en&amp;sxsrf=AHTn8zrmZbrAzvKjxVChGRNtowTajxHLQA:1741210424019&amp;q=eagle+media+hays+phone+number&amp;spell=1&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj587Wm8vOLAxX6HDQIHU-zKIkQBSgAegQICxAB&amp;biw=1750&amp;bih=918&amp;dpr=1#">785-301-2211</a>&nbsp;or your local Eagle marketing representative.

Two hospitalized after NW Kansas rear-end crash

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

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

&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

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.

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

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration is imploring the nation's public health agencies to prioritize investigations of vaccine injuries, prescription drug use and autism's causes in a new “Make America Healthy Again” report focused on children released Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/26086948-maha-strategy-report/">Click here to read the report</a>

The 20-page report, overseen by Health and Human Services Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-f-kennedy-jr">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>, promises to put an end to childhood diseases in the U.S. by refocusing the nation's public health agencies on the topics that those in Kennedy's wide-ranging and politically diverse “MAHA” movement have demanded the government prioritize. The report does not lay out regulatory changes, instead calling on government agencies to further research a wide-range of issues related to Americans' health.

Kennedy's renewed push, though, to investigate vaccine injuries could stir more uproar at the public health agencies he oversees, which have been upended by mass layoffs and disagreements over his controversial policies.

Gathering with Trump officials on Tuesday to unveil the so-called “MAHA” report, Kennedy promised to “recast the entire program" used to investigate reported vaccine injuries. Currently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention investigates injuries that are reported by individuals or providers. Kennedy has repeatedly criticized the current process.

People who report vaccine injuries “will be welcomed and we will learn everything we can about them so we can improve the safety of these products,” Kennedy said Tuesday.

A bipartisan group of senators have raised alarm over Kennedy's vaccine policies at the CDC, which was recently thrown into chaos when Kennedy abruptly fired his hand-picked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cdc-director-susan-monarez-50dfbec849b53b4593755d2e6e616687">director</a>&nbsp;and other top leaders walked out on the job, citing disagreements over the immunization recommendations. Just last week, senators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kennedy-senate-cdc-3a5a090fc9d9f547377203fe5c61ffa2">grilled Kennedy over his anti-vaccine agenda</a>&nbsp;and leadership of the public health agencies.

An earlier version of the report was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/maha-report-children-health-food-rfk-f0c624d30da939fc9cca09687f8a4273">first leaked and publicized in August</a>. Slight changes have been made to the final draft, which was developed by a “MAHA” commission that included Kennedy and other members of the president's cabinet. Despite pledging “radical transparency,” the commission never held a public meeting ahead of the report's release.

Among the differences in the final version of the report released on Tuesday is a call for the National Institutes of Health to use personal medical records and health insurance claims data to investigate the cause of diseases and disorders, including autism.

“The NIH will link multiple datasets, such as claims information, electronic health records, and wearables data, into a single integrated dataset for researchers studying the causes of, and developing treatments for, the chronic disease crisis,” the report says.

Kennedy has vowed for months that he would unveil the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/autism-kennedy-trump-vaccines-rfk-jr-cdc-b66251888f039c80b15beda23c279d5b">cause of autism</a>, a complex developmental disorder that impacts the brain, by September. He has promised to execute a massive research effort to identify the disorder's causes, but has stayed mum on details regarding who is conducting that research and when it will be released.

Last month, President Donald Trump pressed Kennedy for his findings during a cabinet meeting.

Those who have spent decades researching autism have found no single cause. Besides genetics, scientists have identified various possible factors, including the age of a child’s father, the mother’s weight, and whether she had diabetes or was exposed to certain chemicals.

The “MAHA” report addressed a number of other issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ultraprocessed-foods-kennedy-f6a2607b14c4a2787c68801a8e0646bc">ultraprocessed</a>&nbsp;food consumption, water quality, fluoride and the use of prescription drugs in children. Agencies, including the health department and the Department of Justice, should increase enforcement and oversight of prescription drug ads, especially those published by social media influencers and telehealth companies, the report says.

The National Institutes of Health,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-agencies-cuts-70ae99161321f0b779e2e56d8d2db304">which is facing a 40% cut to its budget</a>, is tasked with undertaking much of the MAHA-related research in the report.

Read RFK Jr.'s new MAHA report: Targets vaccines and autism

WASHINGTON — Two teenagers were arrested Friday on murder charges in the killing of a congressional intern for Kansas 4th District Congressman Ron Estes.&nbsp; A third suspect is still at large.

Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, 21, of Granby, Massachusetts, was fatally shot on the night of June 30 near Washington’s Mount Vernon Square. Both suspects in his killing — Kelvin Thomas Jr. and Jailen Lucas —are 17-year-old juveniles but are charged as adults with first-degree murder while armed, according to U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.

Police have offered a reward for a third suspect identified as Naqwan Antonio Lucas.

Tarpinian-Jachym was an “innocent bystander” who wasn't an intended target of the gunfire, Pirro said at a news conference where she was flanked by D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the city's police chief.

“Eric didn't deserve to be gunned down, and the system failed him — the system that felt that juveniles needed to be coddled,” Pirro said. “This killing underscores why we need the authority to prosecute these younger kids, because they're not kids. They're criminals.”

Tarpinian-Jachym was a rising senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He was in Washington to work as a summer intern in the office of Rep. Ron Estes, R-Kansas.

In July, the House observed a moment of silence after Estes paid tribute to Tarpinian-Jachym, calling him “a dedicated, and thoughtful and kind person who loved our country.”

“We will never forget his presence and kindness in my office,” Estes said. “Those he met in his short term in my office will not forget him, either.”

Trump mentioned Tarpinian-Jachym's killing — but not his name — during an Aug. 11 news conference where he announced a federal intervention for a “public safety emergency” in the District of Columbia.

“Any level of gun violence in our city is unacceptable,” Bowser said.

Attorney General Pam Bondi said Friday's arrests are “a testament to President Trump’s efforts to make Washington, D.C., safe again.”

“The Department of Justice will continue our work to prevent other young people from suffering the same fate as Eric,” Bondi said in a statement. “We hope this brings some measure of solace to his family.”

The suspects, both district residents, exited a vehicle at an intersection and shot at two people riding bikes, including a 16-year-old male who was wounded, according to Metropolitan Police Department Commander Kevin Kentish.

Tarpinian-Jachym was struck by four shots. A woman who wasn't a target also was shot but survived, according to Kentish. Surveillance video helped investigators identify the three suspects, he said.

Online court records didn't immediately identify attorneys for the suspects.

MPD Chief Pamela Smith said she and Pirro spoke to Tarpinian-Jachym’s mother on Friday.

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