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

Hays city commissioners will conduct two public hearings on Thursday regarding the 2026 budget of $54.3 million.&nbsp;

The 2026 mill levy remains at 25 mills for the 17th consecutive year, while assessed valuation increased by 2.5%. 

"Because the city's valuation is up, the amount generated by the 25 mill levy will also increase," said Collin Bielser, deputy city manager.

According to example statistics supplied by city staff, the median sales price of a home in Hays is $216,000. The state's residential rate of assessed valuation is 11.5%, equaling $24,840. The assessed valuation is then multiplied by the city mill levy of 0.25, equaling $621 as the amount owed in 2026 city property tax.&nbsp;

A hearing will be held first to exceed the revenue-neutral rate of 24.382 mills in the city's property tax levy.&nbsp;

Commissioners will then take a roll call vote on the resolution.

The public hearing and vote on next year's budget will follow.

The 2026 Budget can be viewed in its entirety by visiting <a href="https://www.haysusa.com/DocumentCenter/View/8179/2026-BUDGET-WORKBOOK">https://www.haysusa.com/392/Budgets</a>

The meeting will start with three nuisance abatements recommended by Jesse Rohr, public works director for&nbsp;

• 515 E. 11th • 1716 Douglas Drive • 231 E. 12th

The complete Sept. 11 agenda is available <a href="https://haysusa.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09112025-1568">here</a>. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in Hays City Hall, 1507 Main.&nbsp;

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

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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

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

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

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

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

&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

OREM, Utah (AP) — Charlie Kirk, the CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth organization&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shutdown-charlie-kirk-turning-point-afb64a04493ddf44df3b7338536a6524">Turning Point USA</a>&nbsp;and a close ally of President Donald Trump, was in critical condition at a Utah hospital Wednesday after being shot at a college event, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press.

A person who was taken into custody at Utah Valley University was not the suspect, according to a person familiar with the investigation who was not authorized to speak publicly. It was not clear if authorities were still searching the campus for a suspect.

Videos posted to social media from Utah Valley University show Kirk speaking into a handheld microphone while sitting under a white tent emblazoned with the slogans “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.” A single shot rings out and Kirk can be seen reaching up with his right hand as a large volume of blood gushes from the left side of his neck. Stunned spectators are heard gasping and screaming before people start to run away. The AP was able to confirm the videos were taken at Sorensen Center courtyard on the Utah Valley University campus.

“We are confirming that he was shot and we are praying for Charlie,” said Aubrey Laitsch, public relations manager for Turning Point USA.

Kirk was speaking at a debate hosted by his nonprofit political organization. The event had been met with divided opinions on campus. An online petition calling for university administrators to bar Kirk from appearing received nearly 1,000 signatures. The university issued a statement last week citing First Amendment rights and affirming its “commitment to free speech, intellectual inquiry, and constructive dialogue.”

Last week, Kirk posted on X images of news clips showing his visit to Utah colleges was sparking controversy. He wrote, “What’s going on in Utah?”

The college said a “single shot” had been fired at Kirk and a suspect was in custody.

Trump and a host of Republican and Democratic elected officials decried the shooting and offered prayers for Kirk on social media.

“We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!” Trump posted on Truth Social.

The shooting comes amid a spike in political violence in the United States across all parts of the ideological spectrum. The attacks include the assassination of a Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband at their house in June, the firebombing of a Colorado parade to demand Hamas release hostages, and a fire set at the house of Pennsylvania’s governor, who is Jewish, in April. The most notorious of these events is the shooting of Trump during a campaign rally last year.

Former Utah congressman Jason Chaffetz, a Republican who was at the event, said in an interview on Fox News Channel that he heard one shot and saw Kirk go back.

“It seemed like it was a close shot,” Chaffetz said, who seemed shaken as he spoke.

He said there was a light police presence at the event and Kirk had some security but not enough.

“Utah is one of the safest places on the planet,” he said. “And so we just don’t have these types of things.”

Turning Point was founded in suburban Chicago in 2012 by Kirk, then 18, and William Montgomery, a tea party activist, to proselytize on college campuses for low taxes and limited government. It was not an immediate success.

But Kirk’s zeal for confronting liberals in academia eventually won over an influential set of conservative financiers.

Despite early misgivings,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-turning-point-voter-mobilization-musk-07286c2572b02aafefdda1cda093e788">Turning Point</a>&nbsp;enthusiastically backed Trump after he clinched the GOP nomination in 2016. Kirk served as a personal aide to Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, during the general election campaign.

Soon, Kirk was a regular presence on cable TV, where he leaned into the culture wars and heaped praise on the then-president. Trump and his son were equally effusive and often spoke at Turning Point conferences.

OREM, Utah (AP) — Charlie Kirk, the CEO and co-founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was shot Wednesday at an event at a Utah college, Turning Point said.

Kirk was attending an event at Utah Valley University.

The shooting comes amid a spike in political violence in the United States across all parts of the ideological spectrum. The attacks include the assassination of a Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband at their house in June, the firebombing of a Colorado parade to demand Hamas release hostages, and a fire set at the house of Pennsylvania’s governor, who is Jewish, in April. The most notorious of these events is the shooting of President Donald Trump during a campaign rally last year.

Kan. lawmakers respond after activist Charlie Kirk shot at college event

WASHINGTON­—Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets Chairwoman Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) delivered opening remarks at Tuesday’s hearing titled “<a href="https://oversight.house.gov/hearing/restoring-public-trust-through-uap-transparency-and-whistleblower-protection/">Restoring Public Trust Through UFO/UAP Transparency and Whistleblower Protection</a>.”

In her opening statement, Task Force Chairwoman Luna highlighted the lack of transparency from the federal government and intelligence communities on the research and disclosure of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs). Task Force Chairwoman Luna also reiterated the importance of addressing threats to U.S. national security by (UFOs or now known as UAPs and the need for the federal government to acknowledge them.

Read the Congresswoman's full statement below:

Good morning, and welcome to this hearing regarding UAP disclosures.

For too long, the issue of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena – commonly known as UAPs – has been shrouded in secrecy, stigma, and in some cases outright dismissal.&nbsp;

Today, I want to state clearly: this is not science fiction or creating speculation.&nbsp;

This is about national security, government accountability, and the American people’s right to the truth.

I have now spoken to a number of whistleblowers from the military, to include at the infamous Eglin AFB incident that occurred when myself and former Rep Matt Gaetz as well as Rep Burchett followed up on a lead from multiple active-duty air force pilot whistleblowers that alleged that the USAF was covering up UAP activity at Eglin AFB.&nbsp;

We have heard from a number of whistleblowers, specifically military pilots, that the reason for not coming forward publicly is out of fear that speaking out would cost them their flight status, and potentially their careers.&nbsp;

We cannot protect our airspace if our best-trained observers are silenced.&nbsp;

We cannot advance science if we refuse to ask questions.&nbsp;

And we cannot maintain trust in government if we keep the American people in the dark.

Now, Congress has tried to fix this problem.

Congress tried to create formal channels – through the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, also known as AARO and the Intelligence Community Inspector General – for service members and officials to make disclosures.

But the reality: the reports that come in are too often brushed aside, slow-walked, or met with skepticism rather than serious investigation. Recently, the former AARO director known as Sean Kirpatrick attacked our witness and members on this committee. It should be noted that he is a documented liar and brings into question what his purpose at AARO really was if it was not to follow up on investigations and disclose his findings to Members of Congress.&nbsp;

A former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, Chris Mellon, described a report published by ARRO that “found no evidence that any USG investigation, academic-sponsored research, or official review panel has confirmed that any sighting of a UAP represented extraterrestrial technology,” as “the most error-ridden and unsatisfactory government report I can recall reading during or after decades of government service.” Mellon further noted that this was the first ARRO report submitted to Congress without the Director of National Intelligence’s sign-off and seemingly excluded input from “any of the scholars or experts who have studied and written extensively on this topic as would normally be the case in another field.” Mellon determined that the report failed to fulfill the congressional mandate under which it was required, omitted entire agencies with “known investigations or activities relating to UAP,” and omitted any discussion of efforts to hide classified or unclassified information about UAP. Such efforts were unaddressed by the report despite the existence of agency records and investigations concerning them, including at US Customs and Border Protection.

If we set up offices and oversight bodies only to let them become graveyards for testimony or worse yet, ruses for pretending to investigate when in actuality, there was no follow up, then we are not doing our jobs.

In recent months, Congress has also been presented with evidence that points to technologies that to our knowledge, are beyond our current capabilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is our duty as elected representatives to follow the facts, wherever they lead, and to ensure those facts are not buried under classification stamps or bureaucratic excuses.&nbsp;

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