By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission will have a public hearing before adopting the 2026 budget during its 8:30 a.m. meeting on Tuesday.

The hearing provides taxpayers with the chance to give input on the general fund and fire district, both of which exceed the revenue-neutral rate, as well as a proposed mill levy increase of 1.96 mills.

Personnel policy change for retiree insurance

The county will be asked to approve 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 and meet other eligibility requirements. Coverage ends when the retiree reaches 65 years old.

New electronic health record for Ellis County Health Department

The county health department will request approval to purchase a new electronic health record system, replacing an outdated one.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.

A homeowner will request approval from the commission to use a county easement in Commerce Estates to build a private road that would provide access to his property. No county funds or assistance will be asked for.

You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09092025-696">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684183971486.png" alt="Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission will have a public hearing before adopting the 2026 budget during its 8:30 a.m. meeting on Tuesday.The hearing provides taxpayers with the chance to give input on the general fund and fire district, both of which exceed the revenue-neutral rate, as well as a proposed mill levy increase of 1.96 mills.<h2>Personnel policy change for retiree insurance</h2>The county will be asked to approve 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 and meet other eligibility requirements. Coverage ends when the retiree reaches 65 years old.<h2>New electronic health record for Ellis County Health Department</h2>The county health department will request 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.<h2>Other business</h2>A homeowner will request approval from the commission to use a county easement in Commerce Estates to build a private road that would provide access to his property. No county funds or assistance will be asked for.You can view the full agenda <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09092025-696">here</a>.

Ellis County Commission sets 2026 budget hearing

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The Hays USD 489 school board will conduct budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.

The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.4%.

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

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.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 proposes mill levy increase, sees special ed costs rise</a>

The board is also set to further discuss naming rights for school facilities.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 pauses Hays High football field naming rights donation discussion</a>

The school board put on hold a donation from Golden Belt Bank for the naming rights of the new Hays High football field.

The bank has offered a $200,000 donation for the naming rights. That offer expires Sept. 15.

Although some board members favored accepting the donation for the naming rights, other board members, including Board President Curt Vajnar, wanted the decision delayed.

The board will also consider a bid of $69,328 from KCAV for 55 presentation display panels for Hays Middle School.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608234493687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Hays USD 489 school board will conduct budget and revenue-neutral rate hearings at 6:30 tonight at the Rockwell Administration Center.The hearings are open to the public.The district will exceed its revenue-neutral rate.&nbsp;The USD 489's portion of the county valuation increased by about 1.4%.The district is proposing a .447 mill increase in the tax levy for the supplemental general fund for the 2026 fiscal year.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.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/1ddb7029-9e09-4f6a-8c1f-c0c5f03f27ed">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 proposes mill levy increase, sees special ed costs rise</a>Naming rightsThe board is also set to further discuss naming rights for school facilities.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/a90fb672-f7e5-4826-b5f3-1decd214e83c">SEE RELATED STORY: Hays USD 489 pauses Hays High football field naming rights donation discussion</a>The school board put on hold a donation from Golden Belt Bank for the naming rights of the new Hays High football field.The bank has offered a $200,000 donation for the naming rights. That offer expires Sept. 15.Although some board members favored accepting the donation for the naming rights, other board members, including Board President Curt Vajnar, wanted the decision delayed.The board will also consider a bid of $69,328 from KCAV for 55 presentation display panels for Hays Middle School.

USD 489 school board to consider budget; Hays High field naming

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756304483305.jpeg" alt="Hays High Indians" />
 <figcaption>Hays High Indians</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedHays High School will celebrate its first homecoming in the new facility Sept. 22-27.Theme: Down the Rabbit Hole (Alice in Wonderland)Homecoming Week:&nbsp;Sept. 22-27Parade:&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, noonHomecoming Game:&nbsp;OUR FOOTBALL STADIUM, vs. Garden City, 7 p.m., Coronation: HalftimeHomecoming 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756392507569.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU Alumni OfficeReach 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.Friday, September 19• 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/onlineWednesday, September 24• Royalty Meet and Greet and Treats – FHSU Quad, 11 a.m.Thursday, September 25• 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.Friday, September 26• 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.Saturday, September 27• 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

George Philip V passed away August 16, 2025. He was born in Hays on August 22, 1954, the oldest son of George “Scotty” Philip IV and Jacqulyn Clowers Philip. He is pre-deceased by his parents and two brothers, Ian and Gordon. Survivors include his son, George Philip VI (Camille Meritan) of Manhattan, his sister, Sheilah Philip (Bob Hartley) of Overland Park, and nephews Alec Philip (Kristen), Hudson Philip, and grand-nephew Evan Philip.

George lived in Hays his whole life, graduating from Hays High in 1972 and FHSU in 1977.  He graduated with a Bachelor’s in Speech Communication, but his passion was the study of Math and Physics, for which he nearly completed a Mathematics degree. Since age eleven he worked at the family business, George Philip Hardware and took over sole ownership in 1984 when his father died.  Just as the three generations before him, he operated the store that was a downtown staple until it closed in 1997. He continued to be called upon by many citizens of Hays for his breadth of skills in hardware, locksmithing, and repair work, so he opened GPH Fabrication and Repair which he operated until 2018. He then decided to go to work again in retail, doing inventory, hardware, and small tool repair at Heartland Building center until retiring in 2022.

He and his former wife, Nancy Mai, had a son, George VI, born in 1987. They were great friends as well as being father and son. They enjoyed working in his shop he had set up on the original family farmstead in Victoria restoring machinery, shooting, and designing and building things together.

George was, in many ways, a Renaissance man. When he was younger, he enjoyed horsemanship, fencing and tae kwon do. His skills in hardware, tools, locks, and repair work were balanced by his love of reading, classical music, and on-going study of physics and mathematics. He was involved in local politics and served as city commissioner and mayor. He had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed cooking and eating, and was the first person his sister knew who had a personal computer.

A memorial service to be at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Pastor Brenda Rodger officiating.  Private burial will be in Mount Allen Cemetery at a later date. 

 In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hays Public Library, First Call for Help of Ellis County, or the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging would be appreciated.  Condolences and memories of George may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755708092825.jpeg" alt="George Philip V" />
 <figcaption>George Philip V</figcaption>
 </figure>George Philip V passed away August 16, 2025. He was born in Hays on August 22, 1954, the oldest son of George “Scotty” Philip IV and Jacqulyn Clowers Philip. He is pre-deceased by his parents and two brothers, Ian and Gordon. Survivors include his son, George Philip VI (Camille Meritan) of Manhattan, his sister, Sheilah Philip (Bob Hartley) of Overland Park, and nephews Alec Philip (Kristen), Hudson Philip, and grand-nephew Evan Philip.George lived in Hays his whole life, graduating from Hays High in 1972 and FHSU in 1977. He graduated with a Bachelor’s in Speech Communication, but his passion was the study of Math and Physics, for which he nearly completed a Mathematics degree. Since age eleven he worked at the family business, George Philip Hardware and took over sole ownership in 1984 when his father died. Just as the three generations before him, he operated the store that was a downtown staple until it closed in 1997. He continued to be called upon by many citizens of Hays for his breadth of skills in hardware, locksmithing, and repair work, so he opened GPH Fabrication and Repair which he operated until 2018. He then decided to go to work again in retail, doing inventory, hardware, and small tool repair at Heartland Building center until retiring in 2022.He and his former wife, Nancy Mai, had a son, George VI, born in 1987. They were great friends as well as being father and son. They enjoyed working in his shop he had set up on the original family farmstead in Victoria restoring machinery, shooting, and designing and building things together.George was, in many ways, a Renaissance man. When he was younger, he enjoyed horsemanship, fencing and tae kwon do. His skills in hardware, tools, locks, and repair work were balanced by his love of reading, classical music, and on-going study of physics and mathematics. He was involved in local politics and served as city commissioner and mayor. He had a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed cooking and eating, and was the first person his sister knew who had a personal computer.A memorial service to be at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home with Pastor Brenda Rodger officiating. Private burial will be in Mount Allen Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hays Public Library, First Call for Help of Ellis County, or the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging would be appreciated. Condolences and memories of George may be left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com

George Philip V

Tiger Talk with Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown airs live on KJLS (103.3) Monday mornings at 9:00 a.m.

Senior tight end Cale Cormaney is this week's player guest.

Tiger Talk with Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown airs live on KJLS (103.3) Monday mornings at 9:00 a.m.Senior tight end Cale Cormaney is this week's player guest.<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (September 8, 2025)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=kks8f-195b5c0-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: Tiger Talk (September 8, 2025)

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Monday, September 8 KJLS: Tiger Talk, 9:00am KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pm KFIX: Chiefs Kingdom, 6:00pm

Tuesday, September 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pm

Wednesday, September 10 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pm

Thursday, September 11 KJLS: Fort Hay State VB vs. Augustana, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pm

Friday, September 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 5:00pm KKQY: Smith Center FB at Phillipsburg, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Choctaw (Okla.), 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Victoria FB at Central Plains, 6:45pm

Saturday, September 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney, 6:00pm

Sunday, September 14 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 12:00pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Monday, September 8 KJLS: Tiger Talk, 9:00am KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pm KFIX: Chiefs Kingdom, 6:00pmTuesday, September 9 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pmWednesday, September 10 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:00pmThursday, September 11 KJLS: Fort Hay State VB vs. Augustana, approx. 4:15pm KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Guardians, 5:30pmFriday, September 12 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 5:00pm KKQY: Smith Center FB at Phillipsburg, 6:00pm KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Choctaw (Okla.), 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB at Russell, 6:30pm KJLS: Victoria FB at Central Plains, 6:45pmSaturday, September 13 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 4:30pm KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney, 6:00pmSunday, September 14 KAYS: Kansas City Royals at Philadelphia Phillies, 12:00pm KFIX: Kansas City Chiefs FB vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 2:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

DENVER, Colo. – Fort Hays State played to a draw with MSU Denver on Sunday. The No. 23 ranked Tigers equalized the match, which ended 2-2, in the 77th minute. FHSU moved to 1-0-1, while MSU Denver moved to 0-0-2.

The Tigers struck first in the 9th minute when Mario Leal Vales netted his first goal of the season, assisted by Mamadou Oumar Ndiaye. MSU Denver responded quickly, leveling the match in the 12th minute on a goal from Colin McKenna, assisted by Brendan O'Toole. The Roadrunners seized the lead in the 27th minute when James Doidge found the back of the net and took their 2-1 lead to halftime.

An early red card to the Tigers just over 34 minutes into the match made it a challenge for a comeback, or even allowing more goals down a man. However, despite MSU Denver holding a strong 11-3 shot advantage in the second half, Elias Ovelar Semeniuk found the net in the 77th minute off a pass from Bastian Carlman. The Tigers allowed only two more shots the remainder of the match to get out of Denver with a draw.

Tiger keeper Payton Roehrich had five saves in the match, while MSU Denver keeper Nick McNeil had four. Carlman led the Tigers with three shots in the match.

FHSU plays its first home match of the season on Thursday night when nationally ranked CSU Pueblo comes to Hays for a 6 p.m. match at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757328189265.png" alt="FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsDENVER, Colo. – Fort Hays State played to a draw with MSU Denver on Sunday. The No. 23 ranked Tigers equalized the match, which ended 2-2, in the 77th minute. FHSU moved to 1-0-1, while MSU Denver moved to 0-0-2.The Tigers struck first in the 9th minute when Mario Leal Vales netted his first goal of the season, assisted by Mamadou Oumar Ndiaye. MSU Denver responded quickly, leveling the match in the 12th minute on a goal from Colin McKenna, assisted by Brendan O'Toole. The Roadrunners seized the lead in the 27th minute when James Doidge found the back of the net and took their 2-1 lead to halftime.An early red card to the Tigers just over 34 minutes into the match made it a challenge for a comeback, or even allowing more goals down a man. However, despite MSU Denver holding a strong 11-3 shot advantage in the second half, Elias Ovelar Semeniuk found the net in the 77th minute off a pass from Bastian Carlman. The Tigers allowed only two more shots the remainder of the match to get out of Denver with a draw.Tiger keeper Payton Roehrich had five saves in the match, while MSU Denver keeper Nick McNeil had four. Carlman led the Tigers with three shots in the match.FHSU plays its first home match of the season on Thursday night when nationally ranked CSU Pueblo comes to Hays for a 6 p.m. match at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

⚽ No. 23 Tiger men draw with Roadrunners in Denver

Giant wild animals filled the sky during the Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show on Saturday and Sunday.

The event was at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, organized by the Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau and the Hays Recreation Commission.

Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri provided the kites of all shapes and sizes, accompanied by food trucks and family activities spread throughout the sports complex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757271914090.jpeg" alt="Massive kites, provided by&nbsp;Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri, during the&nbsp;Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Massive kites, provided by&nbsp;Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri, during the&nbsp;Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostGiant wild animals filled the sky during the Hays Prairie Winds Kite Show on Saturday and Sunday.The event was at the Bickle-Schmidt Sports Complex, organized by the Hays Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau and the Hays Recreation Commission.Great American Kites &amp; Events of Missouri provided the kites of all shapes and sizes, accompanied by food trucks and family activities spread throughout the sports complex.<figure>
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📷 Colorful kites soar over Hays at Prairie Winds Show

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State had its home opener spoiled on a late rally from Northwestern Oklahoma State on Sunday at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The Tigers held a 1-0 advantage for nearly 65 minutes, but saw the Rangers score two goals in the final eight minutes of the match to take the match 2-1.

Fort Hays State took its lead with a goal by Chaley French in the 17th minute, assisted by Sydney Cotter. A header shot by Cotter saved initially by the NWOSU goalkeeper went perfectly to the foot of French right in front of the net. The Tigers had good offensive pressure in the first half with 11 shots compared to Northwestern Oklahoma's three, and had the advantage in corner kicks, four to one. The Tigers led 1-0 at halftime.

A perfectly placed crossing pass by NWOSU's Eryn Warren with just under eight minutes to play resulted in a header goal by Jazelle Alvarado to equalize the match. Then with less than five minutes to play, Christi-Anne Mills took a pass from Jenna Mills and found the net with a shot inside the 18. Despite a persistent attack and earning five corner kicks in the second half, Fort Hays State was unable to find a tying goal in the closing minutes.

Sydney Cotter led the team with six shots, three of which were on goal. Hadley Ostrander made one save, while facing six shots. FHSU outshot NWOSU 19-6 in the match. NWOSU keeper Taylor Annen finished with 11 saves in the match.

Fort Hays State, now 0-2, hosts Augustana in another non-conference contest on Friday, September 12, at 7 p.m. in Hays at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757328577713.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Parker Nisbeth" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Parker Nisbeth</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State had its home opener spoiled on a late rally from Northwestern Oklahoma State on Sunday at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The Tigers held a 1-0 advantage for nearly 65 minutes, but saw the Rangers score two goals in the final eight minutes of the match to take the match 2-1.Fort Hays State took its lead with a goal by Chaley French in the 17th minute, assisted by Sydney Cotter. A header shot by Cotter saved initially by the NWOSU goalkeeper went perfectly to the foot of French right in front of the net. The Tigers had good offensive pressure in the first half with 11 shots compared to Northwestern Oklahoma's three, and had the advantage in corner kicks, four to one. The Tigers led 1-0 at halftime.A perfectly placed crossing pass by NWOSU's Eryn Warren with just under eight minutes to play resulted in a header goal by Jazelle Alvarado to equalize the match. Then with less than five minutes to play, Christi-Anne Mills took a pass from Jenna Mills and found the net with a shot inside the 18. Despite a persistent attack and earning five corner kicks in the second half, Fort Hays State was unable to find a tying goal in the closing minutes.Sydney Cotter led the team with six shots, three of which were on goal. Hadley Ostrander made one save, while facing six shots. FHSU outshot NWOSU 19-6 in the match. NWOSU keeper Taylor Annen finished with 11 saves in the match.Fort Hays State, now 0-2, hosts Augustana in another non-conference contest on Friday, September 12, at 7 p.m. in Hays at FHSU Soccer Stadium.

⚽ Rangers rally late to split past FHSU women

HAYS, Kan. – Ashlyn Reeves and Abrey Galt of Fort Hays State were named to the 2025 Tiger Invitational All-Tournament Team, named by coaches. Seven players were selected to the team with Rockhurst receiving three selections, while Fort Hays State and Northwest Missouri State each had two.

2025 Tiger Invitational All-Tournament Team Sarah Pyle – Rockhurst Alyssa McDonald – Rockhurst Molly Trachta – Rockhurst Ashlyn Reeves – Fort Hays State Abrey Galt – Fort Hays State Ella Caffery – Northwest Missouri State Kasidy Mohwinkle – Northwest Missouri State

Reeves put down a team-high 48 kills during the Tiger Invitational, averaging 3.69 points per set and 3.0 kills per set. She added 14 blocks for the tournament, averaging 0.88 per set, and three service aces.

Galt finished with 114 assists over the four Tiger matches in the tournament. She averaged 7.6 assists per set. She had the third-most digs on the team for the week with 34, averaging 2.27 per set, while adding four blocks and 10 kills.

Fort Hays State went 3-1 in the tournament with wins over Cameron, Arkansas Tech, and Kansas Wesleyan. Rockhurst went 4-0, narrowly topping FHSU by two points in a 5-set thriller. Northwest Missouri State went 2-1 in the tournament.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757278767728.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Ashlyn Reeves and Abrey Galt of Fort Hays State were named to the 2025 Tiger Invitational All-Tournament Team, named by coaches. Seven players were selected to the team with Rockhurst receiving three selections, while Fort Hays State and Northwest Missouri State each had two.2025 Tiger Invitational All-Tournament Team Sarah Pyle – Rockhurst Alyssa McDonald – Rockhurst Molly Trachta – Rockhurst Ashlyn Reeves – Fort Hays State Abrey Galt – Fort Hays State Ella Caffery – Northwest Missouri State Kasidy Mohwinkle – Northwest Missouri StateReeves put down a team-high 48 kills during the Tiger Invitational, averaging 3.69 points per set and 3.0 kills per set. She added 14 blocks for the tournament, averaging 0.88 per set, and three service aces.Galt finished with 114 assists over the four Tiger matches in the tournament. She averaged 7.6 assists per set. She had the third-most digs on the team for the week with 34, averaging 2.27 per set, while adding four blocks and 10 kills.Fort Hays State went 3-1 in the tournament with wins over Cameron, Arkansas Tech, and Kansas Wesleyan. Rockhurst went 4-0, narrowly topping FHSU by two points in a 5-set thriller. Northwest Missouri State went 2-1 in the tournament.

🏐 FHSU's Reeves and Galt named all-tournament for Tiger Invitational

Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University is expanding as the allied health program moves in with the nursing program.&nbsp;

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Crista Beiker, chair of allied health department, and Jenny Manry, nursing department chair, along with president Tisa Mason about of the growth of the two departments.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Expansion of Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=5mxvf-1954898-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University is expanding as the allied health program moves in with the nursing program.&nbsp;On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, news reporter Becky Kiser talks with Crista Beiker, chair of allied health department, and Jenny Manry, nursing department chair, along with president Tisa Mason about of the growth of the two departments.&nbsp;

🎙 Post Podcast: Expansion of Stroup Hall at Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University paid tribute to those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.

The memorial stair climb began Saturday at 7:46 a.m. at Lewis Field Stadium, one hour before the first plane struck the North Tower in 2001. The opening consisted of the national anthem and a moment of silence.

Participants chose to run or walk the stadium steps or complete laps around the Lewis Field turf.

Dozens of first responders, including firefighters in full gear, honored 9/11 heroes by replicating the efforts of those who climbed the World Trade Center.

20-year-old Jose Amaya, a paid-on-call firefighter with the Ellis County Fire Department, said that although he was not born before 2001, he stayed motivated by imagining himself in the shoes of those who attempted the climb.

"We don't exactly see what those first responders did on 9/11, but we kind of get a feeling of what they had to suffer through to get up to the top of the World Trade Center," Amaya said.

18-year-old Kamdem Keller, a county firefighter, said he drew motivation from remembering the first responders who ran toward danger.

"When you're out here with this gear on and you're doing it, you realize these guys were making a push that not very many people could make," Keller said.

Gear typically weighs between 45 and 75 pounds.

After the climb, Amaya said he hopes the public recognizes firefighters’ dedication to serving the community.

"I'm glad I joined the fire department. They feel like a second family to me," he said.

Keller said he hopes the public will continue to support all first responders, including fire, law enforcement and EMT.

"Support your first responders, no matter what agency they are," Keller said. "These are tough jobs. You see some really challenging things, but if you're there to support them, it helps them give a deeper push in their day-to-day life."

As participants completed their laps, footage and audio from the New York attacks were displayed on the big screen at Lewis Field Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757188909962.jpeg" alt="A firefighter climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University paid tribute to those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001.The memorial stair climb began Saturday at 7:46 a.m. at Lewis Field Stadium, one hour before the first plane struck the North Tower in 2001. The opening consisted of the national anthem and a moment of silence.Participants chose to run or walk the stadium steps or complete laps around the Lewis Field turf.Dozens of first responders, including firefighters in full gear, honored 9/11 heroes by replicating the efforts of those who climbed the World Trade Center.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757188991995.jpeg" alt="Participants and first responders during a moment of silence at the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lewis Field Stadium. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Participants and first responders during a moment of silence at the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Lewis Field Stadium. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189029943.jpeg" alt="Firefighters climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters climbing down the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189076414.jpeg" alt="Firefighters and a participant climbing down the&nbsp;Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters and a participant climbing down the&nbsp;Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189140215.jpeg" alt="Firefighters climbing up the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters climbing up the Lewis Field Stadium bleachers for the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189114128.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State University athletes participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State University athletes participating in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189204760.jpeg" alt="Jose Amaya with the Ellis County Fire Department resting during the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Jose Amaya with the Ellis County Fire Department resting during the Fort Hays State University 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>20-year-old Jose Amaya, a paid-on-call firefighter with the Ellis County Fire Department, said that although he was not born before 2001, he stayed motivated by imagining himself in the shoes of those who attempted the climb."We don't exactly see what those first responders did on 9/11, but we kind of get a feeling of what they had to suffer through to get up to the top of the World Trade Center," Amaya said.18-year-old Kamdem Keller, a county firefighter, said he drew motivation from remembering the first responders who ran toward danger."When you're out here with this gear on and you're doing it, you realize these guys were making a push that not very many people could make," Keller said.Gear typically weighs between 45 and 75 pounds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189251032.jpeg" alt="A firefighter and his gear at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter and his gear at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189289828.jpeg" alt="Firefighters resting at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. A picture of fallen New York Fire Department Lieutenant Paul Martini is taped to the back of a firefighter's gear. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters resting at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. A picture of fallen New York Fire Department Lieutenant Paul Martini is taped to the back of a firefighter's gear. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189461695.jpeg" alt="Firefighters at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189305329.jpeg" alt="A firefighter with an axe&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter with an axe&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189407913.jpeg" alt="A young boy with firefighter gear&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A young boy with firefighter gear&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189169097.jpeg" alt="A tired firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A tired firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>After the climb, Amaya said he hopes the public recognizes firefighters’ dedication to serving the community."I'm glad I joined the fire department. They feel like a second family to me," he said.Keller said he hopes the public will continue to support all first responders, including fire, law enforcement and EMT."Support your first responders, no matter what agency they are," Keller said. "These are tough jobs. You see some really challenging things, but if you're there to support them, it helps them give a deeper push in their day-to-day life."As participants completed their laps, footage and audio from the New York attacks were displayed on the big screen at Lewis Field Stadium.Breakfast was served after the climb.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189528412.jpeg" alt="A firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A firefighter&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189693574.jpeg" alt="A timeline of events from Sept. 11, 2001, next to participants of the memorial stair climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero" />
 <figcaption>A timeline of events from Sept. 11, 2001, next to participants of the memorial stair climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189352096.jpeg" alt="Firefighters sitting next to a boy at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters sitting next to a boy at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189567194.jpeg" alt="Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189751905.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Officers holding the Kansas and United States flag during a moment of silence&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Officers holding the Kansas and United States flag during a moment of silence&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757189714839.jpeg" alt="Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters&nbsp;at the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷 Young firefighters pay tribute to 9/11 victims; FHSU Memorial Stair Climb

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756992416841.png" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedUs 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

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State split a pair of thrilling five-set matches on Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays. The Tigers fought off a pesky Kansas Wesleyan team in their first match of the day, winning the final two sets, but then fell to Rockhurst in a win-by-two situation in the fifth set of the night cap. FHSU topped KWU by scores of 25-15, 23-25, 24-26, 25-19, 15-12. The Tigers fell just short to Rockhurst 25-22, 15-25, 19-25, 29-27, 14-16.

Fort Hays State 3, Kansas Wesleyan 2 Fort Hays State edged Kansas Wesleyan in the first contest, having to rally from down two sets to one. Kansas Wesleyan edged the Tigers by two points in both the second and third sets to take the lead. FHSU comfortably won the fourth set, but then had to battle back from an 8-4 deficit in the fifth to win 15-12. A key 8-1 run flipped the Tigers from four down to three up as they held off the Coyotes' charge.

Fort Hays St. capitalized on a strong offensive performance with 77 kills and a .306 hitting percentage. Kansas Wesleyan hit .233 as a team in the match, but really gained momentum to get past FHSU in the middle of the match when it hit .432 in the second set.

Fort Hays raced out to a 7-0 lead in the first set. Despite a brief pushback from Kansas Wesleyan, the Tigers maintained control as five different players had at least three kills in the set, led by Ella Goodwin with four.

Kansas Wesleyan upped its intensity in the second set and stunned the Tigers with a late rally to even up the match. FHSU led 21-16, but saw KWU go on a 9-2 run to take the set by two. Rylee Serpan, who became the all-time leader in kills at Kansas Wesleyan in the match, put down the decisive kill. Goodwin had another strong set with four kills, matched by Grace Schmedding.

Kansas Wesleyan continued its momentum with a 5-1 run to start the third. The Tigers finally pulled back even at 13-13, but took until 16-15 to take their first lead. FHSU led by two a handful of times, but never could get separation and the Coyotes. KWU had a 4-1 burst to win by two, 26-24, and take the lead in the match. Kylee Harris had a big set for KWU with seven kills, while Carsen Cormaney of FHSU nearly matched her with six.

The Tigers weathered the storm with a 6-2 run to open the fourth. They went on to lead by nine a few times before taking the set by six. Ashlyn Reeves led the Tigers with six kills in the set to help even up the match.

The Tigers had to battle from behind in the fifth set, down 8-4. A pivotal moment came when Rains sparked momentum with two consecutive kills, leveling the score at 8-8. Fort Hays State then surged ahead 12-9 with an ace by Hope Duncan and a pair of kills by Schmedding. Goodwin sealed the match with a final kill, ensuring a 15-12 victory

Goodwin led the Tigers with 16 kills, followed by Rains with 15, Reeves with 14, Cormaney with 12, and Schmedding with 10. Abrey Galt shelled out 40 assists, while Kirsten Evans led the Tigers in service aces with three and digs with 16. Schmedding had a double-double in kills and digs (12).

Harris led the Coyotes with 19 kills, while Serpan added 16 and Maddy Wolf had 12.

Rockhurst 3, Fort Hays State 2 Just like the first contest of the day, Fort Hays State fell down two sets to one, but rallied for a thrilling 29-27 win in the fourth set to extend the match. The fifth set was tight at the end, but ultimately taken by Rockhurst 16-14.

The opening set was a tightly contested affair, with Fort Hays State and Rockhurst exchanging points early. The Tigers' Gracie Rains delivered key kills at 7-6 and 19-15, while Annie Eaton consistently facilitated the offense with eight assists in the set. A late surge, including a service ace by Peyton Bergschneider, helped the Tigers clinch the opening set 25-22 with a kill from Grace Schmedding.

Rockhurst pulled away with the second set thanks to a big 8-0 run, taking an 8-7 lead to 16-7. Molly Trachta of Rockhurst had three aces within the run. The lead eventually grew to 11 before the final set margin of 10. Schmedding led the Tigers with five kills in the set.

Another big run helped Rockhurst pull away in the third set. Rockhurst took a 5-3 lead to 10-3 with a 5-0 burst. FHSU applied pressure cutting the lead down to two three times, but a 5-1 run by Rockhurst closed out the set. Peyton Bergschneider led the Tigers with four kills in the frame.

The Tigers fell down early in the fourth, but chipped away and took the lead in the middle of the set. Eventually Rockhurst led 20-16 with a 4-0 burst, but the Tigers battled back once more, fighting off two match points to get into a win-by-two situation at 24-24. Eventually Ashlyn Reeves put down a pair of kills to extend the match after the teams battled to a 27-27 tie. She stepped up in the clutch for FHSU with eight kills in the set.

The Tigers had another uphill climb in front of them in the fifth, down 10-5. However, Gracie Rains started a four-point burst for FHSU with a pair of kills, while Kirsten Evans added a kill as well. A big-time block from Carsyn Cormaney and Ella Goodwin leveled the score at 11-11, but the Hawks went on another burst to get to match point at 14-11. Gracie Rains responded with a kill, Rockhurst committed an error, and then Ella Goodwin and Cormaney tied the set at 14-14 with an assisted block. However, Rockhurst responded with two kills in the win-by-two scenario and escaped Gross Memorial Coliseum with the win. Rains led the Tigers with four kills in the final frame.

Rains led the Tigers with 16 kills followed by Reeves with 14. Abrey Galt had 27 assists, while Grace Schmedding finished with 10 digs.

Sarah Pyle led Rockhurst with 25 kills, while Alyssa McDonald added 12. Katie Vargo had 21 digs.

Looking ahead, Fort Hays State will host the Tiger Classic next week with four more matches at home. The tournament runs Sept. 11-12 at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757219975535.png" alt="Fort Hays State sophomore rightside hitter Ella Goodwin attempts a kill against Rockhurst on the Tiger Invitational; on Saturday, September 6, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State sophomore rightside hitter Ella Goodwin attempts a kill against Rockhurst on the Tiger Invitational; on Saturday, September 6, 2025 in Hays, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State split a pair of thrilling five-set matches on Saturday at Gross Memorial Coliseum in Hays. The Tigers fought off a pesky Kansas Wesleyan team in their first match of the day, winning the final two sets, but then fell to Rockhurst in a win-by-two situation in the fifth set of the night cap. FHSU topped KWU by scores of 25-15, 23-25, 24-26, 25-19, 15-12. The Tigers fell just short to Rockhurst 25-22, 15-25, 19-25, 29-27, 14-16.Fort Hays State 3, Kansas Wesleyan 2 Fort Hays State edged Kansas Wesleyan in the first contest, having to rally from down two sets to one. Kansas Wesleyan edged the Tigers by two points in both the second and third sets to take the lead. FHSU comfortably won the fourth set, but then had to battle back from an 8-4 deficit in the fifth to win 15-12. A key 8-1 run flipped the Tigers from four down to three up as they held off the Coyotes' charge.Fort Hays St. capitalized on a strong offensive performance with 77 kills and a .306 hitting percentage. Kansas Wesleyan hit .233 as a team in the match, but really gained momentum to get past FHSU in the middle of the match when it hit .432 in the second set.Fort Hays raced out to a 7-0 lead in the first set. Despite a brief pushback from Kansas Wesleyan, the Tigers maintained control as five different players had at least three kills in the set, led by Ella Goodwin with four.Kansas Wesleyan upped its intensity in the second set and stunned the Tigers with a late rally to even up the match. FHSU led 21-16, but saw KWU go on a 9-2 run to take the set by two. Rylee Serpan, who became the all-time leader in kills at Kansas Wesleyan in the match, put down the decisive kill. Goodwin had another strong set with four kills, matched by Grace Schmedding.Kansas Wesleyan continued its momentum with a 5-1 run to start the third. The Tigers finally pulled back even at 13-13, but took until 16-15 to take their first lead. FHSU led by two a handful of times, but never could get separation and the Coyotes. KWU had a 4-1 burst to win by two, 26-24, and take the lead in the match. Kylee Harris had a big set for KWU with seven kills, while Carsen Cormaney of FHSU nearly matched her with six.The Tigers weathered the storm with a 6-2 run to open the fourth. They went on to lead by nine a few times before taking the set by six. Ashlyn Reeves led the Tigers with six kills in the set to help even up the match.The Tigers had to battle from behind in the fifth set, down 8-4. A pivotal moment came when Rains sparked momentum with two consecutive kills, leveling the score at 8-8. Fort Hays State then surged ahead 12-9 with an ace by Hope Duncan and a pair of kills by Schmedding. Goodwin sealed the match with a final kill, ensuring a 15-12 victoryGoodwin led the Tigers with 16 kills, followed by Rains with 15, Reeves with 14, Cormaney with 12, and Schmedding with 10. Abrey Galt shelled out 40 assists, while Kirsten Evans led the Tigers in service aces with three and digs with 16. Schmedding had a double-double in kills and digs (12).Harris led the Coyotes with 19 kills, while Serpan added 16 and Maddy Wolf had 12.Rockhurst 3, Fort Hays State 2 Just like the first contest of the day, Fort Hays State fell down two sets to one, but rallied for a thrilling 29-27 win in the fourth set to extend the match. The fifth set was tight at the end, but ultimately taken by Rockhurst 16-14.The opening set was a tightly contested affair, with Fort Hays State and Rockhurst exchanging points early. The Tigers' Gracie Rains delivered key kills at 7-6 and 19-15, while Annie Eaton consistently facilitated the offense with eight assists in the set. A late surge, including a service ace by Peyton Bergschneider, helped the Tigers clinch the opening set 25-22 with a kill from Grace Schmedding.Rockhurst pulled away with the second set thanks to a big 8-0 run, taking an 8-7 lead to 16-7. Molly Trachta of Rockhurst had three aces within the run. The lead eventually grew to 11 before the final set margin of 10. Schmedding led the Tigers with five kills in the set.Another big run helped Rockhurst pull away in the third set. Rockhurst took a 5-3 lead to 10-3 with a 5-0 burst. FHSU applied pressure cutting the lead down to two three times, but a 5-1 run by Rockhurst closed out the set. Peyton Bergschneider led the Tigers with four kills in the frame.The Tigers fell down early in the fourth, but chipped away and took the lead in the middle of the set. Eventually Rockhurst led 20-16 with a 4-0 burst, but the Tigers battled back once more, fighting off two match points to get into a win-by-two situation at 24-24. Eventually Ashlyn Reeves put down a pair of kills to extend the match after the teams battled to a 27-27 tie. She stepped up in the clutch for FHSU with eight kills in the set.The Tigers had another uphill climb in front of them in the fifth, down 10-5. However, Gracie Rains started a four-point burst for FHSU with a pair of kills, while Kirsten Evans added a kill as well. A big-time block from Carsyn Cormaney and Ella Goodwin leveled the score at 11-11, but the Hawks went on another burst to get to match point at 14-11. Gracie Rains responded with a kill, Rockhurst committed an error, and then Ella Goodwin and Cormaney tied the set at 14-14 with an assisted block. However, Rockhurst responded with two kills in the win-by-two scenario and escaped Gross Memorial Coliseum with the win. Rains led the Tigers with four kills in the final frame.Rains led the Tigers with 16 kills followed by Reeves with 14. Abrey Galt had 27 assists, while Grace Schmedding finished with 10 digs.Sarah Pyle led Rockhurst with 25 kills, while Alyssa McDonald added 12. Katie Vargo had 21 digs.Looking ahead, Fort Hays State will host the Tiger Classic next week with four more matches at home. The tournament runs Sept. 11-12 at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

🏐 Tigers split pair of five-set thrillers to conclude Tiger Invitational

Lori Diane Ross, age 59, of Hays,
Kansas, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Hays Medical Center, Hays,
Kansas.

She was born on July 18, 1966, in Farmington, New Mexico, to Gary Raymond and
Verlea Isabel (Robson) Ross.

She was a laboratory technician at Edwards County Medical Center, Hays
Pathology Lab, then Quest Lab, for over 30 years, and moved to Hays in
1993.&nbsp; She grew up in Hoisington, Kansas, and was a 1984 graduate of
Hoisington High School.&nbsp; She attended Kansas Technical Institute at
Salina, Kansas, and Barton County Community College. She enjoyed reading,
movies, making crafts, her co-workers, and always her dogs over the years.

Lori is survived by her parents, Gary and Verlea Ross, Hoisington, KS; her
brother, Devin Ross and his wife, Susan, Dravosburg, PA; her aunt, Phyllis
Russell and husband, Ron, Livingston, MT; her nephew, Benjamin Ross and wife, Chelsea;
her nieces, Katharine Ross; Rebecca Ross and fiancé, Josh Guter; her great
nephew, Cedric Ross; and her four legged special friend, Lilli.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Raymond and Marie Ross; George
and Grace Robson; and her aunt, Shelia Burk.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

A Celebration of Life Service will be at 1:00 P.M. Friday September 19, 2025,
at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with Chaplain Chad Pritchett,
Officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the Hartman Cemetery in Hartman,
Colorado at a later date.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. at the mortuary.

The family suggests memorials made payable to: Humane Society of the High
Plains in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Condolences
can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756524005602.jpeg" alt="Lori Diane Ross" />
 <figcaption>Lori Diane Ross</figcaption>
 </figure>Lori Diane Ross, age 59, of Hays,
Kansas, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Hays Medical Center, Hays,
Kansas.She was born on July 18, 1966, in Farmington, New Mexico, to Gary Raymond and
Verlea Isabel (Robson) Ross.She was a laboratory technician at Edwards County Medical Center, Hays
Pathology Lab, then Quest Lab, for over 30 years, and moved to Hays in
1993.&nbsp; She grew up in Hoisington, Kansas, and was a 1984 graduate of
Hoisington High School.&nbsp; She attended Kansas Technical Institute at
Salina, Kansas, and Barton County Community College. She enjoyed reading,
movies, making crafts, her co-workers, and always her dogs over the years.Lori is survived by her parents, Gary and Verlea Ross, Hoisington, KS; her
brother, Devin Ross and his wife, Susan, Dravosburg, PA; her aunt, Phyllis
Russell and husband, Ron, Livingston, MT; her nephew, Benjamin Ross and wife, Chelsea;
her nieces, Katharine Ross; Rebecca Ross and fiancé, Josh Guter; her great
nephew, Cedric Ross; and her four legged special friend, Lilli.She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Raymond and Marie Ross; George
and Grace Robson; and her aunt, Shelia Burk.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;A Celebration of Life Service will be at 1:00 P.M. Friday September 19, 2025,
at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays with Chaplain Chad Pritchett,
Officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the Hartman Cemetery in Hartman,
Colorado at a later date.The family will receive friends from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 P.M. at the mortuary.The family suggests memorials made payable to: Humane Society of the High
Plains in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd
Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.Condolences
can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Lori Diane Ross

WICHITA, Kan. - The Fort Hays State men's cross country team opened the 2025 season with a third-place finish at the JK Gold Classic on Saturday. The Tigers collected 93 team points between the top five finishers, just four points behind Washburn who finished second in the 14-team field.

Christian Darrah was the top non-DI runner, placing third out of the 156 finishers. The senior clocked a time of 18:52.1, finishing within 11 seconds of first place. Freshman Austin Ritsema made his collegiate debut with an 18th-place finish, traversing the six-kilometer course in 19:29.7. He was followed closely by Noah Morenz who finished 19th with a time of 19:31.5.

Cole Krug also cleared the 20-minute mark after crossing the line in 19:56.8, placing 35th. Ian Weich rounded out the top five with a 39th-place finish after posting a time of 20:07.7.

Wichita State secured the team title with 20 points, placing six runners in the top 11 including individual champ Elkana Kipruto who won with a time of 18:41.5.

The Tigers will make the drive down I-135 again next Saturday (Sept. 13) when they travel to North Newton, Kan. for Bethel College's Muthama-Rogers Invitational.

3rd - Fort Hays State - 93 points 3rd - Christian Darrah - 18:52.1 18th - Austin Ritsema - 19:29.6 19th - Noah Morenz - 19:31.5 35th - Cole Krug - 19:56.8 39th - Ian Weich - 20:07.7 54th - Elijah McCullough - 20:34.0 57th - Emery Wolfe - 20:37.2 68th - Chayse McCullough - 20:47.7 69th - Hayden Nemechek - 20:49.1 73rd - Kamryn Golub - 21:00.0 87th - Kaiden Esfeld - 21:16.0 92nd - Quade Smith - 21:22.3 97th - Andrew Waller - 21:38.1

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757215987996.png" alt="FHSU's Christian Darrah was the top non-DI runner at the JK Gold Classic hosted by Wichita State on Saturday, September 6, 2025. (FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel Little" />
 <figcaption>FHSU's Christian Darrah was the top non-DI runner at the JK Gold Classic hosted by Wichita State on Saturday, September 6, 2025. (FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel Little</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsWICHITA, Kan. - The Fort Hays State men's cross country team opened the 2025 season with a third-place finish at the JK Gold Classic on Saturday. The Tigers collected 93 team points between the top five finishers, just four points behind Washburn who finished second in the 14-team field.Christian Darrah was the top non-DI runner, placing third out of the 156 finishers. The senior clocked a time of 18:52.1, finishing within 11 seconds of first place. Freshman Austin Ritsema made his collegiate debut with an 18th-place finish, traversing the six-kilometer course in 19:29.7. He was followed closely by Noah Morenz who finished 19th with a time of 19:31.5.Cole Krug also cleared the 20-minute mark after crossing the line in 19:56.8, placing 35th. Ian Weich rounded out the top five with a 39th-place finish after posting a time of 20:07.7.Wichita State secured the team title with 20 points, placing six runners in the top 11 including individual champ Elkana Kipruto who won with a time of 18:41.5.The Tigers will make the drive down I-135 again next Saturday (Sept. 13) when they travel to North Newton, Kan. for Bethel College's Muthama-Rogers Invitational.3rd - Fort Hays State - 93 points 3rd - Christian Darrah - 18:52.1 18th - Austin Ritsema - 19:29.6 19th - Noah Morenz - 19:31.5 35th - Cole Krug - 19:56.8 39th - Ian Weich - 20:07.7 54th - Elijah McCullough - 20:34.0 57th - Emery Wolfe - 20:37.2 68th - Chayse McCullough - 20:47.7 69th - Hayden Nemechek - 20:49.1 73rd - Kamryn Golub - 21:00.0 87th - Kaiden Esfeld - 21:16.0 92nd - Quade Smith - 21:22.3 97th - Andrew Waller - 21:38.1

👟 Tiger men third in Wichita

WICHITA, Kan. - The 26th-ranked Fort Hays State women's cross country team opened the 2025 season with a second-place finish at the JK Gold Classic on Saturday. The Tigers collected 52 team points between the top five finishers, all of which placed in the top 16, putting FHSU six points in front of race host Wichita State.

Returning MIAA champion Emily Diercks won the individual title with a time of 18:11.1, six seconds faster than her nearest competition. The senior defeated 20 NCAA Division I runners in the process.

Ashlyn Harbaugh also cracked the top 10 in the 116-competitor field, placing ninth with a time of 18:58.1. Emma Weiner navigated the five-kilometer course in 19:18.8 to finish in 12th place, while Taylor Hoskinson crossed the line in 14th place with a time of 19:23.7. Freshman Esther Clark-Pavlovich made her Tiger debut with a 16th-place finish, completing the race in 19:30.5.

Division I Oklahoma won the team competition with 29 points after placing six runners in the top 11. The Tigers defeated three conference opponents in the process, including Washburn (fourth), Emporia State (seventh) and Newman (eighth).

2nd - Fort Hays State - 52 points 1st - Emily Diercks - 18:11.1 9th - Ashlyn Harbaugh - 18:58.1 12th - Emma Weiner - 19:18.8 14th - Taylor Hoskinson - 19:23.7 16th - Esther Clark-Pavlovich - 19:30.5 24th - Keziah Bachman - 19:56.6 27th - Janae Fugitt - 19:58.0 36th - Abbye Hudson - 20:15.9 39th - Makenzie Premer - 20:27.8 41st - Cate Wiese - 20:29.1 42nd - Margaret Browning - 20:32.7 52nd - Brenna Murphy - 20:54.0 69th - Madelynn Nichols - 21:53.1

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757215625421.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Emily Diercks won the individual title at the JK Gold Classic hosted by Wichita State on Saturday, September 6, 2025. (FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel LIttle)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Emily Diercks won the individual title at the JK Gold Classic hosted by Wichita State on Saturday, September 6, 2025. (FHSU Athletics photo/Daniel LIttle)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AtheticsWICHITA, Kan. - The 26th-ranked Fort Hays State women's cross country team opened the 2025 season with a second-place finish at the JK Gold Classic on Saturday. The Tigers collected 52 team points between the top five finishers, all of which placed in the top 16, putting FHSU six points in front of race host Wichita State.Returning MIAA champion Emily Diercks won the individual title with a time of 18:11.1, six seconds faster than her nearest competition. The senior defeated 20 NCAA Division I runners in the process.Ashlyn Harbaugh also cracked the top 10 in the 116-competitor field, placing ninth with a time of 18:58.1. Emma Weiner navigated the five-kilometer course in 19:18.8 to finish in 12th place, while Taylor Hoskinson crossed the line in 14th place with a time of 19:23.7. Freshman Esther Clark-Pavlovich made her Tiger debut with a 16th-place finish, completing the race in 19:30.5.Division I Oklahoma won the team competition with 29 points after placing six runners in the top 11. The Tigers defeated three conference opponents in the process, including Washburn (fourth), Emporia State (seventh) and Newman (eighth).The Tigers will make the drive down I-135 again next Saturday (Sept. 13) when they travel to North Newton, Kan. for Bethel College's Muthama-Rogers Invitational.2nd - Fort Hays State - 52 points 1st - Emily Diercks - 18:11.1 9th - Ashlyn Harbaugh - 18:58.1 12th - Emma Weiner - 19:18.8 14th - Taylor Hoskinson - 19:23.7 16th - Esther Clark-Pavlovich - 19:30.5 24th - Keziah Bachman - 19:56.6 27th - Janae Fugitt - 19:58.0 36th - Abbye Hudson - 20:15.9 39th - Makenzie Premer - 20:27.8 41st - Cate Wiese - 20:29.1 42nd - Margaret Browning - 20:32.7 52nd - Brenna Murphy - 20:54.0 69th - Madelynn Nichols - 21:53.1

👟 Deircks champ, Tiger women second at 2025 debut; Dierks 

By GARRETT WELLBROCK Hays Post Sports

HILL CITY - For the first time in a decade, Trego walked away victorious against Hill City.&nbsp;

The Golden Eagles snapped an 11 game losing streak to the Ringnecks with a 30-20 win on Friday night at Ringneck Stadium, giving their senior class its first-ever win over Hill City and moving to 1-0 on the season.

Trego opened the game strong after forcing a three and out, marching 39 yards in four and a half minutes and finishing with a 4 yard touchdown run by Jack Conness. The two-point conversion made it 8-0. Hill City responded with a long drive that ended on downs, but answered in the second quarter with quarterback Tate Balthazor's 2 yard scoring run to tie the game at 8.

The second quarter featured 30 combined points and several momentum swings. Trego's Westyn Windholz picked off Balthazor and returned it 14 yards for a touchdown to put the Golden Eagles ahead 16-8. Moments later, a Hill City fumble by Vincent Zohner set up a 50 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ashton Wynn to Conness, extending the lead to 24-8.

Hill City struck back quickly, as Balthazor connected with Jaxson Smith for a 61 yard touchdown two plays later to close the gap to 24-14 at halftime.

The third quarter stalled with penalties, especially on Hill City, which had two big plays called back while Trego maintained its 10-point advantage.

Conness scored his third touchdown of the night on the first play of the fourth quarter, an 8 yard run that stretched the lead to 30-14. Balthazor answered midway through the quarter with a 5 yard touchdown scramble, but his two point conversion pass was intercepted in the end zone, leaving the Ringnecks down 30-20.

Hill City's defense forced a punt on Trego's next possession, but the Golden Eagles returned the favor, stopping Hill City on downs with under five minutes left. Wynn sealed the game with a third down scramble inside the Hill City 20, allowing Trego to kneel out the win.

Conness finished with 42 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground, plus a 50 yard receiving touchdown. Wynn threw for 90 yards and a score on 6 of 9 passing while rushing for 47 yards.

Balthazor led Hill City (0-1) with 150 yards passing, one touchdown and one interception, while adding 54 yards and two scores on the ground. Smith caught two passes for 69 yards and a touchdown.

The win was a measure of revenge for Trego, which saw its 2024 season end at the hands of Hill City in a 34-28 week 9 loss.

By GARRETT WELLBROCK Hays Post SportsHILL CITY - For the first time in a decade, Trego walked away victorious against Hill City.&nbsp;The Golden Eagles snapped an 11 game losing streak to the Ringnecks with a 30-20 win on Friday night at Ringneck Stadium, giving their senior class its first-ever win over Hill City and moving to 1-0 on the season.Trego opened the game strong after forcing a three and out, marching 39 yards in four and a half minutes and finishing with a 4 yard touchdown run by Jack Conness. The two-point conversion made it 8-0. Hill City responded with a long drive that ended on downs, but answered in the second quarter with quarterback Tate Balthazor's 2 yard scoring run to tie the game at 8.The second quarter featured 30 combined points and several momentum swings. Trego's Westyn Windholz picked off Balthazor and returned it 14 yards for a touchdown to put the Golden Eagles ahead 16-8. Moments later, a Hill City fumble by Vincent Zohner set up a 50 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ashton Wynn to Conness, extending the lead to 24-8.Hill City struck back quickly, as Balthazor connected with Jaxson Smith for a 61 yard touchdown two plays later to close the gap to 24-14 at halftime.The third quarter stalled with penalties, especially on Hill City, which had two big plays called back while Trego maintained its 10-point advantage.Conness scored his third touchdown of the night on the first play of the fourth quarter, an 8 yard run that stretched the lead to 30-14. Balthazor answered midway through the quarter with a 5 yard touchdown scramble, but his two point conversion pass was intercepted in the end zone, leaving the Ringnecks down 30-20.Hill City's defense forced a punt on Trego's next possession, but the Golden Eagles returned the favor, stopping Hill City on downs with under five minutes left. Wynn sealed the game with a third down scramble inside the Hill City 20, allowing Trego to kneel out the win.Conness finished with 42 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground, plus a 50 yard receiving touchdown. Wynn threw for 90 yards and a score on 6 of 9 passing while rushing for 47 yards.Balthazor led Hill City (0-1) with 150 yards passing, one touchdown and one interception, while adding 54 yards and two scores on the ground. Smith caught two passes for 69 yards and a touchdown.The win was a measure of revenge for Trego, which saw its 2024 season end at the hands of Hill City in a 34-28 week 9 loss.

🏈 Trego ends long skid against Hill City

Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson about progress on the bond projects during the summer on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast USD 489 Update" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=bqh4d-19548b3-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Hays USD 489 Superintendent Ron Wilson about progress on the bond projects during the summer on this episode of the Hays Post Podcast.

🎙 Post Podcast: USD 489 summer bond projects update

The Western Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, of which Hays is a part, had almost $34,000 in payments withheld because of an overpayment in Medicaid funds.

The issue affected 153 of the state's school districts. The total owed by all of the districts was more than $11 million, with the Wichita school district owing $3 million.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b64d3ce7-d2bf-4101-bb82-184fc359928a">SEE RELATED STORY: Kansas school district repay Medicaid dollars after contractor error</a>

The West Central Kansas Co-op serves Hays, Russell, LaCrosse, Ellis, and Victoria, as well as private schools in these communities.

Kyle Carlin, co-op director, said the issue affected seven years of payments.

He said an error was identified in the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's calculation of data shared with its Medicaid contractor,&nbsp;Public Consulting Group.

Of the 35 payments that were reviewed, the local co-op had eight payments that were affected.

"We have not received an answer to why the error impacted some districts more than others, nor why it did not affect all of the payments," Carlin said in an email.

The total adjustment was&nbsp;$33,972, which was withheld from payments made to the co-op this summer.&nbsp;

"We were lucky compared to other districts. The overall impact to our budget was minimal," he said. "The unexpected cost was absorbed by our end-of-year cash balance, and did not affect any local decisions regarding staffing or district contributions to WCKSEC."

Secretary Janet Stanek from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment told the Legislative Budget Committee on Aug. 26 that she was offering no excuses, explained that previous administrations had cut staff and the program was “under-resourced," according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/" target="_blank">Kansas Reflector.</a>

“But I can tell you, PCG has stepped up, and we are holding them more accountable,” Stanek said. “We are going to look at adding positions to manage – even though you have a consultant or a contractor, as you know, somebody’s got to manage them too – and I would say it was loose, and that’s on us.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588177095967.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostThe Western Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative, of which Hays is a part, had almost $34,000 in payments withheld because of an overpayment in Medicaid funds.The issue affected 153 of the state's school districts. The total owed by all of the districts was more than $11 million, with the Wichita school district owing $3 million.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b64d3ce7-d2bf-4101-bb82-184fc359928a">SEE RELATED STORY: Kansas school district repay Medicaid dollars after contractor error</a>The West Central Kansas Co-op serves Hays, Russell, LaCrosse, Ellis, and Victoria, as well as private schools in these communities.Kyle Carlin, co-op director, said the issue affected seven years of payments.He said an error was identified in the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's calculation of data shared with its Medicaid contractor,&nbsp;Public Consulting Group.Of the 35 payments that were reviewed, the local co-op had eight payments that were affected."We have not received an answer to why the error impacted some districts more than others, nor why it did not affect all of the payments," Carlin said in an email.The total adjustment was&nbsp;$33,972, which was withheld from payments made to the co-op this summer.&nbsp;"We were lucky compared to other districts. The overall impact to our budget was minimal," he said. "The unexpected cost was absorbed by our end-of-year cash balance, and did not affect any local decisions regarding staffing or district contributions to WCKSEC."Secretary Janet Stanek from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment told the Legislative Budget Committee on Aug. 26 that she was offering no excuses, explained that previous administrations had cut staff and the program was “under-resourced," according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/" target="_blank">Kansas Reflector.</a>“But I can tell you, PCG has stepped up, and we are holding them more accountable,” Stanek said. “We are going to look at adding positions to manage – even though you have a consultant or a contractor, as you know, somebody’s got to manage them too – and I would say it was loose, and that’s on us.”