Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about&nbsp; the anuual Hays housing report.

<div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Grow Hays" 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=3bjxp-1a793c1-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%22 loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Reporter Cristina Janney speaks with Doug Williams of Grow Hays about&nbsp; the anuual Hays housing report.

🎙 Post Podcast: Grow Hays housing report

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump has added a new objective for the war with Iran.

Though his administration for weeks has maintained that its four objectives remained “unchanged, unambiguous, and consistent” since the operation began, Trump in his social media post added a fifth one.

The four objectives had been to block Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon, stop it from arming proxy militant groups, destroy its navy and destroy its ballistic missile capacity.

In his post Friday, Trump enumerated those and added a fifth: “Protecting, at the highest level, our Middle Eastern Allies” and listed America’s Gulf partners.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774057085356.png" alt="President Trump spoke to the media Friday afternoon-White House image" />
 <figcaption>President Trump spoke to the media Friday afternoon-White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump has added a new objective for the war with Iran.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://t.co/y6Ykmh1Xph">pic.twitter.com/y6Ykmh1Xph</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2035102800074432620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Though his administration for weeks has maintained that its four objectives remained “unchanged, unambiguous, and consistent” since the operation began, Trump in his social media post added a fifth one.The four objectives had been to block Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon, stop it from arming proxy militant groups, destroy its navy and destroy its ballistic missile capacity.In his post Friday, Trump enumerated those and added a fifth: “Protecting, at the highest level, our Middle Eastern Allies” and listed America’s Gulf partners.

President Trump adds new objective for the Iran war

On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks with Chandler Reich, Hays Arts Council executive director and Brittney Squier, board president.

The Field &amp; Forms dual exhibit is open until April 11 and will be followed by the annual Smoky Hils Art Competition and Exhibition debuting at the Spring Art Walk on April 25.&nbsp;

Renovation work continues at the Hays Arts Council and the annex with a grand opening target of early 2027.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650389030295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council happenings" 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=hmgw6-1a75f05-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>On this episode of the Hays Post Podcast, Becky Kiser, news reporter, talks with Chandler Reich, Hays Arts Council executive director and Brittney Squier, board president.The Field &amp; Forms dual exhibit is open until April 11 and will be followed by the annual Smoky Hils Art Competition and Exhibition debuting at the Spring Art Walk on April 25.&nbsp;Renovation work continues at the Hays Arts Council and the annex with a grand opening target of early 2027.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays Arts Council happenings 

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

It's been years in the making, Hays city commissioners said during their Thursday work session, but it's worth the wait.

A Chick-fil-A&nbsp;quick-service restaurant is to be built this year at 3404 Vine, the site of the former Rodeway Inn motel, which was closed and razed. 

Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, presented the developer's request to issue industrial revenue bonds (IRBs) for the $6.2 million project. The city would serve as a conduit issuer, with the developer responsible for the payments.&nbsp;

The developer is requesting a property tax abatement and a sales tax exemption for materials, furniture, fixtures and equipment. The estimated cost is $66,875.&nbsp;

No bonds will be issued, and there is no taxpayer commitment.&nbsp;

Once construction is complete, the exemption would expire, and all sales and purchases at the location would be subject to regular sales tax collections.

Kuckelman said the developer estimates initial annual retail sales for the restaurant at about $5.5 million. At the city's current sales tax rate of 2.25%, that would generate about $123,750 in average annual sales tax revenue for Hays.

There's been a lot of public speculation and excitement about the project. Ten-year-old Noah Berges of Roosevelt Elementary School was in the audience, holding a sign in support of the restaurant.

"Great sign," said Mason Ruder, mayor, to Berges.

Ruder said a lot of work had gone into the project, including analysis of traffic flow, ingress, egress and parking space for the restaurant, which will include a double-lane drive-thru.&nbsp;

Sandy Jacobs, commissioner, said the city's roundabouts were installed "just for development on Vine Street like this, where people would be able to get in and out, not have to stop at stop signs or red lights."

Ruder said he called all the restaurants adjacent to the 37th Street roundabout, which reported their sales went up 10 to 20% after the roundabouts were in place.&nbsp;

"Drivers aren't afraid to jump across Vine anymore," he said.

Shaun Musil, city commissioner, gave kudos to David Clingan of Grow Hays and city staff for their work behind the scenes.

"Chick-fil-A now; what's next?" Musil said. "We know a lot of (new) businesses want to be where it's busy."

Clingan said the restaurant, which is hiring an experienced franchise owner/operator who will move to Hays, expects to hire 17 employees.

The city commission will vote on a resolution next week for the intent to issue the requested industrial revenue bonds.

A bid for the 2026 sanitary sewer cleaning and inspection was presented by Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.

The city maintains about 115 miles of sanitary sewer lines and cleans and inspects about 22 miles of them each year.

Problems that can result from a lack of sewer cleaning include sewer backups, manhole overflows, public exposure&nbsp;to raw sewage and regulatory fines, Crispin said. "Not every city does this preventative maintenance."

This year's project covers northeast Hays, which was last treated in 2021.&nbsp;

The low bid was from Dakota Municipal Solutions, Moorhead, Minnesota, for $133,028. The budgeted amount was $150,000. The remaining $17,000 will be used for heavier cleaning, tap intrusion removal, root removal and patching.

Crispin also presented a low bid for a 10,000-hour&nbsp;maintenance service of the&nbsp;centrifuge at the Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, Highway 40 and General Custer.&nbsp;

The bid of&nbsp;$48,600 from the&nbsp;authorized manufacturer representative in Wichita is below the $50,000 budget.&nbsp;

David Vilaysing, commissioner, was appreciative of the maintenance plans presented for the Department of Water Resources.

 "I challenge all the other department heads to look at what we've got out there and how we can maintain it and make what we have last longer for financial responsibility," Vilaysing said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Current Unified Development Code regulations require a 5-foot side yard setback for all accessory structures, including&nbsp;carports. Following recent variance requests, Jesse Rohr, public works director, said the Hays Area Planning Commission is recommending&nbsp;reducing the side yard setback for carports from 5 feet to 3 feet.

"It allows property owners with narrow or constrained lots to maximize usable yard and driveway space," Rohr said.

Fire, property maintenance, electrical code updates&nbsp;

The city periodically updates its building codes to account for advancements in&nbsp;structural integrity, fire and life safety, property maintenance, and electrical safety. They were last updated in 2017.

Changes include local matching of the frequency the state of Kansas requires for fire, emergency and tornado drills. There would also be an amendment requiring that all fire alarm activations be sent to local dispatch.

Commissioners moved all the agenda items on for a vote at their March 26 meeting.

Toby Dougherty, city manager, requested a 30-minute executive session to consult with the city attorney's staff regarding matters pertaining to attorney-client privilege, including the Hays city commissioners (excluding Shaun Musil), the deputy city manager and the assistant city manager.

Kuckelman said Musil's exclusion had nothing to do with his performance as a commissioner.

No action was taken following the session.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774020238841.png" alt="A Chick-fil-A quick-service restaurant is to be built this year at 3404 Vine, the site of the former Rodeway Inn motel. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>A Chick-fil-A quick-service restaurant is to be built this year at 3404 Vine, the site of the former Rodeway Inn motel. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostIt's been years in the making, Hays city commissioners said during their Thursday work session, but it's worth the wait.A Chick-fil-A&nbsp;quick-service restaurant is to be built this year at 3404 Vine, the site of the former Rodeway Inn motel, which was closed and razed. Jarrod Kuckelman, assistant city manager, presented the developer's request to issue industrial revenue bonds (IRBs) for the $6.2 million project. The city would serve as a conduit issuer, with the developer responsible for the payments.&nbsp;The developer is requesting a property tax abatement and a sales tax exemption for materials, furniture, fixtures and equipment. The estimated cost is $66,875.&nbsp;No bonds will be issued, and there is no taxpayer commitment.&nbsp;Once construction is complete, the exemption would expire, and all sales and purchases at the location would be subject to regular sales tax collections.Kuckelman said the developer estimates initial annual retail sales for the restaurant at about $5.5 million. At the city's current sales tax rate of 2.25%, that would generate about $123,750 in average annual sales tax revenue for Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774014217479.jpeg" alt="Noah Berges, 10, a Roosevelt Elementary School student, shows his support for the planned Chick-fil-A restaurant to Hays city commissioners during their March 19 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Noah Berges, 10, a Roosevelt Elementary School student, shows his support for the planned Chick-fil-A restaurant to Hays city commissioners during their March 19 work session. Photo by Becky Kiser/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>There's been a lot of public speculation and excitement about the project. Ten-year-old Noah Berges of Roosevelt Elementary School was in the audience, holding a sign in support of the restaurant."Great sign," said Mason Ruder, mayor, to Berges.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774019965500.png" alt="The quick-service Chick-fil-A restaurant, will have a double drive-thru. Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>The quick-service Chick-fil-A restaurant, will have a double drive-thru. Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruder said a lot of work had gone into the project, including analysis of traffic flow, ingress, egress and parking space for the restaurant, which will include a double-lane drive-thru.&nbsp;Sandy Jacobs, commissioner, said the city's roundabouts were installed "just for development on Vine Street like this, where people would be able to get in and out, not have to stop at stop signs or red lights."Ruder said he called all the restaurants adjacent to the 37th Street roundabout, which reported their sales went up 10 to 20% after the roundabouts were in place.&nbsp;"Drivers aren't afraid to jump across Vine anymore," he said.Shaun Musil, city commissioner, gave kudos to David Clingan of Grow Hays and city staff for their work behind the scenes."Chick-fil-A now; what's next?" Musil said. "We know a lot of (new) businesses want to be where it's busy."Clingan said the restaurant, which is hiring an experienced franchise owner/operator who will move to Hays, expects to hire 17 employees.The city commission will vote on a resolution next week for the intent to issue the requested industrial revenue bonds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774020907755.png" alt="2026 sanitary sewer cleaning and inspection plan. City of Hays" />
 <figcaption>2026 sanitary sewer cleaning and inspection plan. City of Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>Sewer cleaning and inspectionA bid for the 2026 sanitary sewer cleaning and inspection was presented by Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.The city maintains about 115 miles of sanitary sewer lines and cleans and inspects about 22 miles of them each year.Problems that can result from a lack of sewer cleaning include sewer backups, manhole overflows, public exposure&nbsp;to raw sewage and regulatory fines, Crispin said. "Not every city does this preventative maintenance."This year's project covers northeast Hays, which was last treated in 2021.&nbsp;The low bid was from Dakota Municipal Solutions, Moorhead, Minnesota, for $133,028. The budgeted amount was $150,000. The remaining $17,000 will be used for heavier cleaning, tap intrusion removal, root removal and patching.Centrifuge maintenanceCrispin also presented a low bid for a 10,000-hour&nbsp;maintenance service of the&nbsp;centrifuge at the Water Reclamation and Reuse Facility, Highway 40 and General Custer.&nbsp;The bid of&nbsp;$48,600 from the&nbsp;authorized manufacturer representative in Wichita is below the $50,000 budget.&nbsp;David Vilaysing, commissioner, was appreciative of the maintenance plans presented for the Department of Water Resources. "I challenge all the other department heads to look at what we've got out there and how we can maintain it and make what we have last longer for financial responsibility," Vilaysing said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Setbacks for carportsCurrent Unified Development Code regulations require a 5-foot side yard setback for all accessory structures, including&nbsp;carports. Following recent variance requests, Jesse Rohr, public works director, said the Hays Area Planning Commission is recommending&nbsp;reducing the side yard setback for carports from 5 feet to 3 feet."It allows property owners with narrow or constrained lots to maximize usable yard and driveway space," Rohr said.Fire, property maintenance, electrical code updates&nbsp;The city periodically updates its building codes to account for advancements in&nbsp;structural integrity, fire and life safety, property maintenance, and electrical safety. They were last updated in 2017.Changes include local matching of the frequency the state of Kansas requires for fire, emergency and tornado drills. There would also be an amendment requiring that all fire alarm activations be sent to local dispatch.Commissioners moved all the agenda items on for a vote at their March 26 meeting.Executive sessionToby Dougherty, city manager, requested a 30-minute executive session to consult with the city attorney's staff regarding matters pertaining to attorney-client privilege, including the Hays city commissioners (excluding Shaun Musil), the deputy city manager and the assistant city manager.Kuckelman said Musil's exclusion had nothing to do with his performance as a commissioner.No action was taken following the session.&nbsp;

Hays City Commission talks economic development incentives for new Chick-fil-A

Trego County Emergency Management said the fire near WaKeeney is under control.

Evacuation is not necessary at this time.

Residents on north Fourth Street in WaKeeney are being urged to turn on sprinklers and prepare to evacuate their homes if the fire threatens the city.

According to scanner reports, firefighters are on the scene of a grass fire in the area U.S. Highway 283 between milemarkers 150 and 179.

Reports indicated the fire was affecting the area of the power station in the area.&nbsp;

Multiple units have been called to respond to the scene.

Hays PostTrego County Emergency Management said the fire near WaKeeney is under control.Evacuation is not necessary at this time.-----<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774039894702.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A fire suppression plane is en route.----Residents on north Fourth Street in WaKeeney are being urged to turn on sprinklers and prepare to evacuate their homes if the fire threatens the city.-----According to scanner reports, firefighters are on the scene of a grass fire in the area U.S. Highway 283 between milemarkers 150 and 179.Reports indicated the fire was affecting the area of the power station in the area.&nbsp;Power might be affected.Multiple units have been called to respond to the scene.

UPDATE: Trego Emergency Management fire under control; evacuation not necessary at this time

Gov. Kelly signed a bill today reaffirming the state’s authority over the transfer or appropriation of water.

It explicitly places such authority, except for domestic use, with the chief engineer and the water transfer hearing panel.

House Bill 2433 was sponsored and championed by Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and included&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0b77976f-deca-4758-819a-f01bbc3f4745">testimony for support</a>&nbsp;from Mason Ruder, Hays mayor, and Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager.

This bill, which will be effective retroactively, will prevent Edwards County from including water transfer regulations in its local codes and acting as its own water authority.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c6a0184d-7e96-4157-ba49-d5e49a49e54c">READ RELATED STORY: Water bill awaits governor's signature, solidifies state control of water transfers.</a>

About 10 years ago, Hays and Russell filed an application to change their 32 water rights from irrigation to municipal use at the R9 Ranch in Edwards County. The request was approved by Kansas Department of Agriculture chief engineer Earl Lewis.

Edwards County has fought the water transfer in court for 11 years, costing Hays and Russell millions of dollars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773867736496.png" alt="R9 Ranch in Edwards County" />
 <figcaption>R9 Ranch in Edwards County</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostGov. Kelly signed a bill today reaffirming the state’s authority over the transfer or appropriation of water.It explicitly places such authority, except for domestic use, with the chief engineer and the water transfer hearing panel.House Bill 2433 was sponsored and championed by Rep. Barb Wasinger, R-Hays, and included&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0b77976f-deca-4758-819a-f01bbc3f4745">testimony for support</a>&nbsp;from Mason Ruder, Hays mayor, and Toby Dougherty, Hays city manager.This bill, which will be effective retroactively, will prevent Edwards County from including water transfer regulations in its local codes and acting as its own water authority.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/c6a0184d-7e96-4157-ba49-d5e49a49e54c">READ RELATED STORY: Water bill awaits governor's signature, solidifies state control of water transfers.</a>About 10 years ago, Hays and Russell filed an application to change their 32 water rights from irrigation to municipal use at the R9 Ranch in Edwards County. The request was approved by Kansas Department of Agriculture chief engineer Earl Lewis.Edwards County has fought the water transfer in court for 11 years, costing Hays and Russell millions of dollars.

Gov. Kelly signs water bill affecting water transfers

NEW YORK (AP) — CBS News said Friday it will shut down its storied radio news service after nearly 100 years of operation, ending an era and blaming challenging economic times as the world moves on to digital sources and podcasts.

When it went on the air in September 1927, the service was the precursor to the entire network, giving a youthful William S. Paley a start in the business. Famed broadcaster Edward R. Murrow's rooftop reports during the Nazi bombing of London during World War II kept Americans listening anxiously.

Today, CBS News Radio provides material to an estimated 700 stations across the country and is known best for its top-of-the-hour news roundups. The service will end on May 22, the network said Friday.

“Radio is woven into the fabric of CBS News and that's always going to be part of our history,” CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss said in delivering the news to the staff. “I want you to know that we did everything we could, including before I joined the company, to try and find a viable solution to sustain the radio operation.”

But with the radical changes in the media industry, “we just could not find a way to make that possible,” she said.

CBS News cut some of its radio programming late last year, including its “Weekend Roundup” and “World News Roundup Late Edition,” in an attempt to keep the service going.

It was unclear how many people will lose their jobs because of the radio shutdown. CBS News was cutting about 6% of its workforce, or more than 60 people, on Friday. It's not the end of turmoil at the network, as parent company Paramount Global is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cnn-paramount-warner-bros-92648a3a3a0b3d8c81b6de8f1848a34b">likely to absorb CNN</a>&nbsp;as part of its announced purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery.

Along with newspapers, radio was the dominant medium in how Americans got their news from shortly after the dawn of commercial radio in 1920 through the 1940s, with people in their living rooms listening to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's “Fireside Chats” during the Depression. CBS News Radio's broadcast about Germany's invasion of Austria in 1938, the first time Murrow was heard on the air, was an historic marker for the service.

Broadcasters like Douglas Edwards, Dallas Townsend and Christopher Glenn were familiar voices on CBS News Radio. The beginning of the television era in the 1950s began a long slide for radio, often an afterthought today with the world online and on phones. Those seeking audio often turn to podcasts before radio.

“This is another part of the landscape that has fallen off into the sea,” said Michael Harrison, publisher of Talkers, a trade publication for radio talk shows. “It's a shame. It's a loss for the country and for the industry.”

CBS News Radio was a major force for generations of Americans. “Its heyday spanned decades,” Harrison said. “It was quality on every level. It sounded good. Its coverage was as objective as possible within the realm of human nature. Its resources were extensive. It had a very high trust factor that was considered the standard of the day.”

The front page of CBS News' website did not immediately carry news of the demise.

Weiss, founder of the Free Press website and without broadcast news experience before being hired by CBS parent Paramount’s new management, has quickly become a headline-maker and polarizing figure in journalism. She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/60-minutes-deportations-trump-2cf999bb391290f6f6b4bb4f537fa145">held a “60 Minutes” story</a>&nbsp;critical of President Donald Trump’s deportation policy from being broadcast for a month and has critics watching to see if she’s moving the network in a Trump-friendly direction.

Addressing her staff in January,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cbs-bari-weiss-skydance-5539ff80e8edf11ab9508dd5419faa83">three months into her job</a>&nbsp;as CBS News boss, she invoked the network's legendary newsman Walter Cronkite as a symbol of old thinking and said that if the network continues with its current strategy, “we’re toast.” She announced the hiring of 18 new contributors and said CBS News needs to do stories that will “surprise and provoke — including inside our own newsroom.”

David Bauder writes about the intersection of media and entertainment for the AP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774034918973.png" alt="Edward R. Murrow, a CBS correspondent who made his name from the front lines of World War II- Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Edward R. Murrow, a CBS correspondent who made his name from the front lines of World War II- Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID BAUDER AP Media WriterNEW YORK (AP) — CBS News said Friday it will shut down its storied radio news service after nearly 100 years of operation, ending an era and blaming challenging economic times as the world moves on to digital sources and podcasts.When it went on the air in September 1927, the service was the precursor to the entire network, giving a youthful William S. Paley a start in the business. Famed broadcaster Edward R. Murrow's rooftop reports during the Nazi bombing of London during World War II kept Americans listening anxiously.Today, CBS News Radio provides material to an estimated 700 stations across the country and is known best for its top-of-the-hour news roundups. The service will end on May 22, the network said Friday.“Radio is woven into the fabric of CBS News and that's always going to be part of our history,” CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss said in delivering the news to the staff. “I want you to know that we did everything we could, including before I joined the company, to try and find a viable solution to sustain the radio operation.”But with the radical changes in the media industry, “we just could not find a way to make that possible,” she said.<h2>Not the first radio cuts at CBS</h2>CBS News cut some of its radio programming late last year, including its “Weekend Roundup” and “World News Roundup Late Edition,” in an attempt to keep the service going.It was unclear how many people will lose their jobs because of the radio shutdown. CBS News was cutting about 6% of its workforce, or more than 60 people, on Friday. It's not the end of turmoil at the network, as parent company Paramount Global is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cnn-paramount-warner-bros-92648a3a3a0b3d8c81b6de8f1848a34b">likely to absorb CNN</a>&nbsp;as part of its announced purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery.Along with newspapers, radio was the dominant medium in how Americans got their news from shortly after the dawn of commercial radio in 1920 through the 1940s, with people in their living rooms listening to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's “Fireside Chats” during the Depression. CBS News Radio's broadcast about Germany's invasion of Austria in 1938, the first time Murrow was heard on the air, was an historic marker for the service.Broadcasters like Douglas Edwards, Dallas Townsend and Christopher Glenn were familiar voices on CBS News Radio. The beginning of the television era in the 1950s began a long slide for radio, often an afterthought today with the world online and on phones. Those seeking audio often turn to podcasts before radio.“This is another part of the landscape that has fallen off into the sea,” said Michael Harrison, publisher of Talkers, a trade publication for radio talk shows. “It's a shame. It's a loss for the country and for the industry.”<h2>A major radio player for many decades</h2>CBS News Radio was a major force for generations of Americans. “Its heyday spanned decades,” Harrison said. “It was quality on every level. It sounded good. Its coverage was as objective as possible within the realm of human nature. Its resources were extensive. It had a very high trust factor that was considered the standard of the day.”The front page of CBS News' website did not immediately carry news of the demise.Weiss, founder of the Free Press website and without broadcast news experience before being hired by CBS parent Paramount’s new management, has quickly become a headline-maker and polarizing figure in journalism. She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/60-minutes-deportations-trump-2cf999bb391290f6f6b4bb4f537fa145">held a “60 Minutes” story</a>&nbsp;critical of President Donald Trump’s deportation policy from being broadcast for a month and has critics watching to see if she’s moving the network in a Trump-friendly direction.Addressing her staff in January,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cbs-bari-weiss-skydance-5539ff80e8edf11ab9508dd5419faa83">three months into her job</a>&nbsp;as CBS News boss, she invoked the network's legendary newsman Walter Cronkite as a symbol of old thinking and said that if the network continues with its current strategy, “we’re toast.” She announced the hiring of 18 new contributors and said CBS News needs to do stories that will “surprise and provoke — including inside our own newsroom.”___David Bauder writes about the intersection of media and entertainment for the AP.

CBS News shutters its storied radio news service after nearly a century

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Hays is under a red-flag warning in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.

This is an upgrade from a fire weather watch issued on Thursday for the same time period.

The effect is for wind and low relative humidity for much of southwest Kansas. Affected counties include Trego, Ellis, Ness, Rush, Finney, Hodgeman, Pawnee, Stafford, Grant, Haskell, Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber.

Winds from the south are expected to be 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.&nbsp;

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.&nbsp;

The high in Hays today is forecast at 89 degrees with a low of 49. Tomorrow's forecast is for highs in the 90s and sunny.

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.875831&amp;lon=-99.324717">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766163984197.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostHays is under a red-flag warning in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service.This is an upgrade from a fire weather watch issued on Thursday for the same time period.The effect is for wind and low relative humidity for much of southwest Kansas. Affected counties include Trego, Ellis, Ness, Rush, Finney, Hodgeman, Pawnee, Stafford, Grant, Haskell, Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber.Winds from the south are expected to be 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.&nbsp;A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.&nbsp;The high in Hays today is forecast at 89 degrees with a low of 49. Tomorrow's forecast is for highs in the 90s and sunny.<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.875831&amp;lon=-99.324717">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

UPDATE: Fire watch upgraded to red flag warning Saturday in Ellis County

MIAMI COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a small plane crash in Miami County, Kansas.&nbsp;

Just before 12:30p.m. Thursday, the Miami County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a report of a single-engine propeller aircraft in distress after experiencing engine failure approximately 1.2 miles southwest of Miami County Airport in Paola, according to the Sheriff Department.

The pilot was able to safely land the aircraft on Old Kansas City Road, north of 335th Street before emergency personnel could arrive in the area. 

The aircraft is operated by U.S. Aviation Academy. Both occupants were uninjured.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is handling the investigation. Assisting agencies included the Miami County Sheriff’s Office, Osawatomie Police Department, Miami County EMS, Osawatomie Fire Department and Paola Fire Department.

Check the Post for additional details as they beome available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773964988535.png" alt="Photo Miami. County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Miami. County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a small plane crash in Miami County, Kansas.&nbsp;Just before 12:30p.m. Thursday, the Miami County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a report of a single-engine propeller aircraft in distress after experiencing engine failure approximately 1.2 miles southwest of Miami County Airport in Paola, according to the Sheriff Department.The pilot was able to safely land the aircraft on Old Kansas City Road, north of 335th Street before emergency personnel could arrive in the area. The aircraft is operated by U.S. Aviation Academy. Both occupants were uninjured.The Kansas Highway Patrol is handling the investigation. Assisting agencies included the Miami County Sheriff’s Office, Osawatomie Police Department, Miami County EMS, Osawatomie Fire Department and Paola Fire Department.Check the Post for additional details as they beome available.

Sheriff: Small plane makes emergency landing in Kansas

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays tied a record high of 89 on Thursday.

High temperatures are forecast to remain well above normal for the next two days. Today's high is forecast at 89 degrees, and Saturday's high is forecast at 96 degrees.

A cool front will move in on Sunday, with the forecast high falling to 70 degrees.

A fire weather watch has been issued for Saturday afternoon and evening with high winds and low humidity.

Winds are forecast to be 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and humidity as low as 9%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746218683561.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays tied a record high of 89 on Thursday.That record was set in 1916.High temperatures are forecast to remain well above normal for the next two days. Today's high is forecast at 89 degrees, and Saturday's high is forecast at 96 degrees.A cool front will move in on Sunday, with the forecast high falling to 70 degrees.A fire weather watch has been issued for Saturday afternoon and evening with high winds and low humidity.Winds are forecast to be 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and humidity as low as 9%.

Hays ties record high on Thursday

Chuck Norris, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2020-tokyo-olympics-karate-b54fe367687bdd0ce8e172ff4f0e0a60">martial arts grandmaster</a>&nbsp;and action star whose roles in “Walker, Texas Ranger” and other television shows and movies made him an iconic tough guy — sparking internet parodies and adoration from presidents — has died at 86.

Norris died Thursday, in what his family described as a “sudden passing.”

“While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace,” the family said in a statement posted to social media.

Before he would become a star in movies and on TV, Norris was wildly successful in competitive martial arts. He became a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion. He also founded his own Korean-based American hard style of karate known sometimes as Chun Kuk Do and the United Fighting Arts Federation, which has awarded more than 3,300 Chuck Norris System black belts worldwide. Black Belt magazine ultimately credited Norris in its hall of fame with holding a 10th degree black belt, the highest possible honor.

Born Carlos Ray Norris in Ryan, Oklahoma, on March 10, 1940, he grew up poor. At age 12, he moved with his family to Torrance, California, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.war.gov/News/Feature-Stories/Story/Article/3705404/actor-chuck-norris-was-in-the-air-force-during-the-cold-war/">joined the U.S. Air Force</a>&nbsp;after high school, in 1958. It was during a deployment to Korea that he started training in martial arts, including judo and Tang Soo Do.

“I went out for gymnastics and football at North Torrance high,” he told The Associated Press in 1982. “I played some football, but I also spent a lot of time on the bench. I was never really athletic until I was in the service in Korea.”

After he was honorably discharged in 1962, he worked as a file clerk for Northrop Aircraft and&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/72315/veteranoftheday-air-force-veteran-chuck-norris/">applied to be a police officer</a>, but was put on a waitlist. Meanwhile, he opened a martial arts studio, which expanded to a chain, with students including such stars as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bob-barker-dead-f47644de8696496b980306f4cd6907f4">Bob Barker,</a>&nbsp;Priscilla Presley, Donnie and Marie Osmond, and Steve McQueen, whom he later credited with encouraging him to get into acting.

Norris made his film debut as an uncredited bodyguard in the 1968 movie “The Wrecking Crew,” which included a fight with Dean Martin. He had also crossed paths with Bruce Lee in martial arts circles. Their friendship — sometimes, as sparring partners — led to an iconic faceoff in the 1972 movie “Return of the Dragon,” in which Lee fights and kills Norris' character in Rome's Colosseum.

He went on to act in more than 20 movies, such as “Missing in Action,” “The Delta Force” and “Sidekicks.”

“I wanted to project a certain image on the screen of a hero. I had seen a lot of anti-hero movies in which the lead was neither good nor bad. There was no one to root for,” Norris said in 1982.

In 1993, he took on his most famed role, as a crime-fighting lawman in TV's “Walker, Texas Ranger.” The show ran for nine seasons, and in 2010, then-Gov. Rick Perry awarded him the title of honorary Texas Ranger. The Texas Senate later named him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/celebrity-general-news-ab4fccbcf4724c45964bbeae1c655269">an honorary Texan.</a>

“It’s not violence for violence’s sake, with no moral structure,” Norris told the AP in 1996, speaking about the show. “You try to portray the proper meaning of what it’s about — fighting injustice with justice, good vs. bad. … It’s entertaining for the whole family.”

Norris also made a surprise comedic appearance as a decisive judge in the final match of the 2004 movie “Dodgeball.” He only on occasion has taken acting roles in recent years, including 2012's “The Expendables 2” and the 2024 sci-fi action movie “Agent Recon.”

Chuck Norris: the man, the meme, the legend

It was around the time of “Dodgeball” that his toughman image became the stuff of legend, literally: “Chuck Norris Facts” went viral online with such wildly hyperbolic statements as, “Chuck Norris had a staring contest with the sun -- and won,” and, “They wanted to put Chuck Norris on Mt. Rushmore, but the granite wasn’t tough enough for his beard.”

Norris ultimately embraced the absurdity of the meme craze, putting together “The Official Chuck Norris Fact Book,” which combined his favorites with supposedly true stories and the codes he aimed to live by. He would also write books on martial arts instruction, a memoir, political takes, Civil War-era historical fiction and more.

“To some who know little of my martial arts or film careers but perhaps grew up with 'Walker, Texas Ranger,' it seems that I have become a somewhat mythical superhero icon,” Norris wrote in the forward to the fact book. “I am flattered and humbled.”

That book raised money for a nonprofit he founded with President George H.W. Bush that promoted martial arts instruction for kids.

The intentionally outlandish statements featured in the 2008 Republican presidential primary, when Norris endorsed Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and shot an ad playing on the “Chuck Norris facts.”

President Donald Trump's supporters later promoted Trump Facts in the same vein, and political pundits tried it as well, describing the commander-in-chief's decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-presidential-palace-blowtorches-7969152ae48510003fe9cbde92f3c102">seize Venezuela's sitting president, Nicolas Maduro,</a>&nbsp;as a “Chuck Norris Moment,” and its initial effect on oil prices a “Chuck Norris Premium.”

Norris was outspoken about his Christian beliefs and his support for gun rights, and backed political candidates for years — he even went skydiving with Bush for the former president's 80th birthday. As for Trump, Norris endorsed him in the 2016 general election and wrote guest columns praising him without explicitly endorsing him the in the days before the 2020 and 2024 elections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774017068577.png" alt="Chuck Norris embraced the absurdity of the meme craze, putting together “The Official Chuck Norris Fact Book,” which combined his favorites with supposedly true stories and the codes he aimed to live by. He would also write books on martial arts instruction, a memoir, political takes, Civil War-era historical fiction and more." />
 <figcaption>Chuck Norris embraced the absurdity of the meme craze, putting together “The Official Chuck Norris Fact Book,” which combined his favorites with supposedly true stories and the codes he aimed to live by. He would also write books on martial arts instruction, a memoir, political takes, Civil War-era historical fiction and more.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN MATTISE Associated PressChuck Norris, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2020-tokyo-olympics-karate-b54fe367687bdd0ce8e172ff4f0e0a60">martial arts grandmaster</a>&nbsp;and action star whose roles in “Walker, Texas Ranger” and other television shows and movies made him an iconic tough guy — sparking internet parodies and adoration from presidents — has died at 86.<div><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWG8c5BAKPd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWG8c5BAKPd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DWG8c5BAKPd/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Chuck Norris (@chucknorris)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>Norris died Thursday, in what his family described as a “sudden passing.”“While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace,” the family said in a statement posted to social media.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Chuck Norris has died. He had 6 C-SPAN appearances, including one when he served as chairman of the Kick Drugs Out of America Foundation, with President George H.W. Bush. RIP. <a href="https://t.co/akgZinjmMN">pic.twitter.com/akgZinjmMN</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2034999623358542308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Before he would become a star in movies and on TV, Norris was wildly successful in competitive martial arts. He became a six-time undefeated World Professional Middleweight Karate champion. He also founded his own Korean-based American hard style of karate known sometimes as Chun Kuk Do and the United Fighting Arts Federation, which has awarded more than 3,300 Chuck Norris System black belts worldwide. Black Belt magazine ultimately credited Norris in its hall of fame with holding a 10th degree black belt, the highest possible honor.Born Carlos Ray Norris in Ryan, Oklahoma, on March 10, 1940, he grew up poor. At age 12, he moved with his family to Torrance, California, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.war.gov/News/Feature-Stories/Story/Article/3705404/actor-chuck-norris-was-in-the-air-force-during-the-cold-war/">joined the U.S. Air Force</a>&nbsp;after high school, in 1958. It was during a deployment to Korea that he started training in martial arts, including judo and Tang Soo Do.“I went out for gymnastics and football at North Torrance high,” he told The Associated Press in 1982. “I played some football, but I also spent a lot of time on the bench. I was never really athletic until I was in the service in Korea.”After he was honorably discharged in 1962, he worked as a file clerk for Northrop Aircraft and&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/72315/veteranoftheday-air-force-veteran-chuck-norris/">applied to be a police officer</a>, but was put on a waitlist. Meanwhile, he opened a martial arts studio, which expanded to a chain, with students including such stars as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bob-barker-dead-f47644de8696496b980306f4cd6907f4">Bob Barker,</a>&nbsp;Priscilla Presley, Donnie and Marie Osmond, and Steve McQueen, whom he later credited with encouraging him to get into acting.<h2>From one studio to another</h2>Norris made his film debut as an uncredited bodyguard in the 1968 movie “The Wrecking Crew,” which included a fight with Dean Martin. He had also crossed paths with Bruce Lee in martial arts circles. Their friendship — sometimes, as sparring partners — led to an iconic faceoff in the 1972 movie “Return of the Dragon,” in which Lee fights and kills Norris' character in Rome's Colosseum.He went on to act in more than 20 movies, such as “Missing in Action,” “The Delta Force” and “Sidekicks.”“I wanted to project a certain image on the screen of a hero. I had seen a lot of anti-hero movies in which the lead was neither good nor bad. There was no one to root for,” Norris said in 1982.In 1993, he took on his most famed role, as a crime-fighting lawman in TV's “Walker, Texas Ranger.” The show ran for nine seasons, and in 2010, then-Gov. Rick Perry awarded him the title of honorary Texas Ranger. The Texas Senate later named him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/celebrity-general-news-ab4fccbcf4724c45964bbeae1c655269">an honorary Texan.</a>“It’s not violence for violence’s sake, with no moral structure,” Norris told the AP in 1996, speaking about the show. “You try to portray the proper meaning of what it’s about — fighting injustice with justice, good vs. bad. … It’s entertaining for the whole family.”Norris also made a surprise comedic appearance as a decisive judge in the final match of the 2004 movie “Dodgeball.” He only on occasion has taken acting roles in recent years, including 2012's “The Expendables 2” and the 2024 sci-fi action movie “Agent Recon.”<h2>Chuck Norris: the man, the meme, the legend</h2>It was around the time of “Dodgeball” that his toughman image became the stuff of legend, literally: “Chuck Norris Facts” went viral online with such wildly hyperbolic statements as, “Chuck Norris had a staring contest with the sun -- and won,” and, “They wanted to put Chuck Norris on Mt. Rushmore, but the granite wasn’t tough enough for his beard.”Norris ultimately embraced the absurdity of the meme craze, putting together “The Official Chuck Norris Fact Book,” which combined his favorites with supposedly true stories and the codes he aimed to live by. He would also write books on martial arts instruction, a memoir, political takes, Civil War-era historical fiction and more.“To some who know little of my martial arts or film careers but perhaps grew up with 'Walker, Texas Ranger,' it seems that I have become a somewhat mythical superhero icon,” Norris wrote in the forward to the fact book. “I am flattered and humbled.”That book raised money for a nonprofit he founded with President George H.W. Bush that promoted martial arts instruction for kids.The intentionally outlandish statements featured in the 2008 Republican presidential primary, when Norris endorsed Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and shot an ad playing on the “Chuck Norris facts.”President Donald Trump's supporters later promoted Trump Facts in the same vein, and political pundits tried it as well, describing the commander-in-chief's decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-presidential-palace-blowtorches-7969152ae48510003fe9cbde92f3c102">seize Venezuela's sitting president, Nicolas Maduro,</a>&nbsp;as a “Chuck Norris Moment,” and its initial effect on oil prices a “Chuck Norris Premium.”Norris was outspoken about his Christian beliefs and his support for gun rights, and backed political candidates for years — he even went skydiving with Bush for the former president's 80th birthday. As for Trump, Norris endorsed him in the 2016 general election and wrote guest columns praising him without explicitly endorsing him the in the days before the 2020 and 2024 elections.

Chuck Norris, martial arts and acting legend, has died 

A Hays man was sentenced to serve more than 36 years in prison for the murder of his 5-month-old son.&nbsp;

Abraham Duran Leon was found guilty of second-degree murder in the 2024 death of his son,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/obituaries/fernando-leon" target="_blank">Fernando Leon III</a>.

Ellis County District Court Judge Curtis Brown sentenced&nbsp;Abraham Leon to 438 months in prison during a hearing in Hays on Thursday.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b82bb20e-49b1-41cf-bf36-fb0b29acf58a">Emergency personnel were dispatched at 12:15 p.m. on April 2, 2024, to the Rodeway Inn, 3404 Vine St., responding to a report</a>&nbsp;that an infant was not breathing.

Fernando's father was also present in the motel room.

Drug paraphernalia was found in the hotel room. A toxicology report found methamphetamine in both Abraham Leon's and his son's bodies.

Abraham's wife and Fernando's&nbsp;mother, Brandi Leon, in her victim's statement, requested leniency for her husband.

Members of&nbsp;Abraham Leon's extended family were in the courtroom, as were members of the Hays Police Department, who investigated the case.

A tearful Brandi Leon requested "mercy and grace" for her husband and requested that the judge allow her husband to serve a non-prison sentence with community corrections.

"This has been a tragedy for our family, and we have had no chance to grieve our loss," Brandi Leon said.

Abraham Leon in has allocution admitted he had suffered from addiction.&nbsp;

The defense noted Leon's sobriety. However, he has been in jail since his arrest on the murder charge.

"I have been inspired to change my life," he said.

"I believe I did the best I could and provided for my son the best I could," he said.

Abraham Leon&nbsp;said if he was granted probation, he planned to move to Texas to be near family and work for his father.

"I appreciate the severity of what happened every day," he said.

Ellis County Attorney Aaron Cunningham argued for an aggravated sentence, which would have carried a prison term of 460 months, or more than 38 years.

In court filings, Cunningham noted Abraham Leon had been out of jail on a felony bond when the murder occurred. He argued the victim's age should be considered as an aggravating factor in this case.

Cunningham said Abraham Leon failed to address his methamphetamine use. He failed to accept help, although several women in his life urged him to seek further care for Fernando. He also failed to seek help after repeated welfare checks by law enforcement,&nbsp;Cunningham said.

Cunningham said Abraham Leon repeatedly consumed methamphetamine in the same motel room as the baby.

"He definitely had no concept of how to care for a child,"&nbsp;Cunningham said.

He added, "He had flagrant disregard for the well-being of the child."

A presentence investigation determined the defendant had 19 prior convictions, placing him at a level B on the sentencing grid, the second-highest level.

Judge Brown ruled against both the defense's motion for a departure for probation and the state's motion for an aggravated sentence.

The 438 months imposed is in the middle of the sentencing range, based on the charge and&nbsp;Abraham Leon's criminal history.

"No sentence would restore what has been taken," Brown said. "Fernando will not take his first steps. He will not have a first day of school."

"There has been a family that has been hollowed out, and there was a life that deserved an opportunity that is now gone," Brown said.

Abraham Leon will receive more than 600 days of credit toward his sentence for time served. He will also be eligible for up to 15% good time credit, be subject to 36 months post-release supervision and will be required to be a registered offender.

Before Leon's sentence was imposed, his defense argued the jury's verdict should be set aside, and the judge should acquit Leon of the murder charge.

Leon's defense attorney argued the state did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Fernando died of a methamphetamine overdose.

She argued the baby's death was unexplained, and he happened to have methamphetamine in his system. She said the state's expert could not rule out another reason for the baby's death.

Judge Brown ruled against the defense's motion, saying it was up to the jurors to weigh the credibility of conflicting expert testimony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773953198537.png" alt="Abraham Leon-photo KB I offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Abraham Leon-photo KB I offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA Hays man was sentenced to serve more than 36 years in prison for the murder of his 5-month-old son.&nbsp;Abraham Duran Leon was found guilty of second-degree murder in the 2024 death of his son,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/obituaries/fernando-leon" target="_blank">Fernando Leon III</a>.Ellis County District Court Judge Curtis Brown sentenced&nbsp;Abraham Leon to 438 months in prison during a hearing in Hays on Thursday.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b82bb20e-49b1-41cf-bf36-fb0b29acf58a">Emergency personnel were dispatched at 12:15 p.m. on April 2, 2024, to the Rodeway Inn, 3404 Vine St., responding to a report</a>&nbsp;that an infant was not breathing.Fernando's father was also present in the motel room.Drug paraphernalia was found in the hotel room. A toxicology report found methamphetamine in both Abraham Leon's and his son's bodies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773950276359.jpeg" alt="Fernando Leon" />
 <figcaption>Fernando Leon</figcaption>
 </figure>Abraham's wife and Fernando's&nbsp;mother, Brandi Leon, in her victim's statement, requested leniency for her husband.Members of&nbsp;Abraham Leon's extended family were in the courtroom, as were members of the Hays Police Department, who investigated the case.A tearful Brandi Leon requested "mercy and grace" for her husband and requested that the judge allow her husband to serve a non-prison sentence with community corrections."This has been a tragedy for our family, and we have had no chance to grieve our loss," Brandi Leon said.Abraham Leon in has allocution admitted he had suffered from addiction.&nbsp;The defense noted Leon's sobriety. However, he has been in jail since his arrest on the murder charge."I have been inspired to change my life," he said."I believe I did the best I could and provided for my son the best I could," he said.Abraham Leon&nbsp;said if he was granted probation, he planned to move to Texas to be near family and work for his father."I appreciate the severity of what happened every day," he said.Ellis County Attorney Aaron Cunningham argued for an aggravated sentence, which would have carried a prison term of 460 months, or more than 38 years.In court filings, Cunningham noted Abraham Leon had been out of jail on a felony bond when the murder occurred. He argued the victim's age should be considered as an aggravating factor in this case.Cunningham said Abraham Leon failed to address his methamphetamine use. He failed to accept help, although several women in his life urged him to seek further care for Fernando. He also failed to seek help after repeated welfare checks by law enforcement,&nbsp;Cunningham said.Cunningham said Abraham Leon repeatedly consumed methamphetamine in the same motel room as the baby."He definitely had no concept of how to care for a child,"&nbsp;Cunningham said.He added, "He had flagrant disregard for the well-being of the child."A presentence investigation determined the defendant had 19 prior convictions, placing him at a level B on the sentencing grid, the second-highest level.Judge Brown ruled against both the defense's motion for a departure for probation and the state's motion for an aggravated sentence.The 438 months imposed is in the middle of the sentencing range, based on the charge and&nbsp;Abraham Leon's criminal history."No sentence would restore what has been taken," Brown said. "Fernando will not take his first steps. He will not have a first day of school.""There has been a family that has been hollowed out, and there was a life that deserved an opportunity that is now gone," Brown said.Abraham Leon will receive more than 600 days of credit toward his sentence for time served. He will also be eligible for up to 15% good time credit, be subject to 36 months post-release supervision and will be required to be a registered offender.Before Leon's sentence was imposed, his defense argued the jury's verdict should be set aside, and the judge should acquit Leon of the murder charge.Leon's defense attorney argued the state did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Fernando died of a methamphetamine overdose.She argued the baby's death was unexplained, and he happened to have methamphetamine in his system. She said the state's expert could not rule out another reason for the baby's death.Judge Brown ruled against the defense's motion, saying it was up to the jurors to weigh the credibility of conflicting expert testimony.

Hays man convicted of killing infant son sentenced to prison

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to close westbound I-70 through downtown Topeka this weekend for pavement patching work on the Polk-Quincy Viaduct.

Conditions permitting, westbound I-70 will be closed to traffic from 10th Avenue to Topeka Boulevard, beginning at 10 p.m. on Friday, March 20. The closure will remain in place until work is complete, or no later than 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 22.

&nbsp;The 10th Avenue exit will be the last open exit for westbound motorists. Through I-70 traffic will follow signed detours and be routed south to I-470, or north to K-4 to U.S. 24 to U.S. 75. Drivers may also use the local street detour on 10th Avenue and Topeka Boulevard to the I-70 on-ramp at 1st Street.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Additional I-70 closures may occur if more work is needed on the viaduct. If necessary, KDOT will coordinate with the City of Topeka to schedule the closure and provide information when available.

&nbsp;Both directions of I-70 will stay reduced to one lane until construction of the viaduct’s replacement is complete. More information about the Polk-Quincy Viaduct project can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/projects/northeast-kansas-projects/i-70-polk-quincy-viaduct" target="_blank">ksdot.gov/I-70-Polk-Quincy</a>.

&nbsp;KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/" target="_blank">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 511. For updates on highway projects in northeast Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/about/our-organization/districts/district-1-northeast-kansas/district-1-northeast-kansas-news-releases" target="_blank">ksdot.gov/NortheastNews</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773940230947.png" alt="Kandrive image Thursday March 19" />
 <figcaption>Kandrive image Thursday March 19</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to close westbound I-70 through downtown Topeka this weekend for pavement patching work on the Polk-Quincy Viaduct.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773939699778.png" alt="KDOT" />
 <figcaption>KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>Conditions permitting, westbound I-70 will be closed to traffic from 10th Avenue to Topeka Boulevard, beginning at 10 p.m. on Friday, March 20. The closure will remain in place until work is complete, or no later than 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 22.&nbsp;The 10th Avenue exit will be the last open exit for westbound motorists. Through I-70 traffic will follow signed detours and be routed south to I-470, or north to K-4 to U.S. 24 to U.S. 75. Drivers may also use the local street detour on 10th Avenue and Topeka Boulevard to the I-70 on-ramp at 1st Street.&nbsp;&nbsp;Eastbound I-70 will remain open.&nbsp;Additional I-70 closures may occur if more work is needed on the viaduct. If necessary, KDOT will coordinate with the City of Topeka to schedule the closure and provide information when available.&nbsp;Both directions of I-70 will stay reduced to one lane until construction of the viaduct’s replacement is complete. More information about the Polk-Quincy Viaduct project can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/projects/northeast-kansas-projects/i-70-polk-quincy-viaduct" target="_blank">ksdot.gov/I-70-Polk-Quincy</a>.&nbsp;KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/" target="_blank">KanDrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 511. For updates on highway projects in northeast Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/about/our-organization/districts/district-1-northeast-kansas/district-1-northeast-kansas-news-releases" target="_blank">ksdot.gov/NortheastNews</a>.

KDOT: Portion of I-70 to close this weekend in Topeka

Kids splashed and experimented with hands-on lessons at the 2026 World Water Day Fun Fest, learning why every drop matters.

The city of Hays and K-State Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds hosted the event on Thursday at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

The day featured several water-themed activities for all ages, highlighting the importance of water. Children also met mascots such as WaterSmart Wally, were treated to snacks, had their faces painted and played with a rainbow parachute.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773938380868.jpeg" alt="An attendee at the 2026 World Water Day Fun Fest being shown a water demonstration with a sponge. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>An attendee at the 2026 World Water Day Fun Fest being shown a water demonstration with a sponge. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostKids splashed and experimented with hands-on lessons at the 2026 World Water Day Fun Fest, learning why every drop matters.The city of Hays and K-State Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds hosted the event on Thursday at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.The day featured several water-themed activities for all ages, highlighting the importance of water. Children also met mascots such as WaterSmart Wally, were treated to snacks, had their faces painted and played with a rainbow parachute.<figure>
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📷 2026 World Water Day Fun Fest teaches importance of water

SHAWNEE COUNTY —On Friday, law enforcement released the name of the man who died in a farm accident in Shawnee County as 76-year-old&nbsp; Victor M. Taylor of Silver Lake, Kansas.

Just after 3p.m. Thursday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a tractor accident at a rural residence in the 4000 Block of NW Hoch Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

First responders found Victor M. Taylor trapped beneath a tractor suffering from critical injuries. Despite life saving measures he was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;

The incident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

SHAWNEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident Thursday in Shawnee County.

Just after 3p.m., the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a tractor accident at a rural residence in the 4000 Block of NW Hoch Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

First responders found a 76-year-old man trapped beneath a tractor suffering from critical injuries. Despite life saving measures he was pronounced dead at the scene. The sheriff's office did not release the name of the victim.

The incident remains under investigation.&nbsp; Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774000454104.png" alt="4000 NW Hoch Road -Google map" />
 <figcaption>4000 NW Hoch Road -Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —On Friday, law enforcement released the name of the man who died in a farm accident in Shawnee County as 76-year-old&nbsp; Victor M. Taylor of Silver Lake, Kansas.Just after 3p.m. Thursday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a tractor accident at a rural residence in the 4000 Block of NW Hoch Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.First responders found Victor M. Taylor trapped beneath a tractor suffering from critical injuries. Despite life saving measures he was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;The incident remains under investigation.&nbsp;------------------SHAWNEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident Thursday in Shawnee County.Just after 3p.m., the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a report of a tractor accident at a rural residence in the 4000 Block of NW Hoch Road, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.First responders found a 76-year-old man trapped beneath a tractor suffering from critical injuries. Despite life saving measures he was pronounced dead at the scene. The sheriff's office did not release the name of the victim.The incident remains under investigation.&nbsp; Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Sheriff: Kansas man dies in farm accident

KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – Fort Hays State Tennis moved to 7-2 overall for the season with a 5-2 win at Truman State University on Thursday (Mar. 19). The Tigers took a 1-0 lead by winning the doubles point, winning two of three contests, then won four of the six singles matches to clinch the win. Truman moved to 6-4 overall for the season.

The No. 2 and No. 3 doubles teams for the Tigers had no problems gaining the first team point. Molly Gaddis and Ines Latorre at No. 2 posted a 6-1 win, while Janae Montoya and Ines Steeman at No. 3 blanked their opponent 6-0. The No. 1 team of Bethan Gill and Diana Souza had a tight match, but fell by a score of 6-4.

The Tigers took the No. 1, 2, 3, and 5 singles matches to win the team competition. All singles matches finished in straight sets. At No. 1, Gill scored a 6-0, 6-4 win over Nayana Malangi. Gaddis won 6-4, 6-1 over Finley Laforge at No. 2. Latorre took her first set 6-2 at No. 3 and then held off MaryGrace Seymour in the next set 7-5. At No. 5, Steeman won a close first set 7-5 before cruising 6-2 in the second over Himari Maruyama. Montoya had a close first set at No. 4, falling 5-7, 2-6 to Belle Daniels. Angeliki Efthymiou had to retire from her No. 6 match, but the Tigers had the match at hand.

Fort Hays State will be at home for its next three matches. The Tigers host Bethany (Kan.) College on Tuesday, March 24 before starting conference play on March 27 and 28 against Northwest Missouri State and Missouri Western.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1774001870165.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKIRKSVILLE, Mo. – Fort Hays State Tennis moved to 7-2 overall for the season with a 5-2 win at Truman State University on Thursday (Mar. 19). The Tigers took a 1-0 lead by winning the doubles point, winning two of three contests, then won four of the six singles matches to clinch the win. Truman moved to 6-4 overall for the season.The No. 2 and No. 3 doubles teams for the Tigers had no problems gaining the first team point. Molly Gaddis and Ines Latorre at No. 2 posted a 6-1 win, while Janae Montoya and Ines Steeman at No. 3 blanked their opponent 6-0. The No. 1 team of Bethan Gill and Diana Souza had a tight match, but fell by a score of 6-4.The Tigers took the No. 1, 2, 3, and 5 singles matches to win the team competition. All singles matches finished in straight sets. At No. 1, Gill scored a 6-0, 6-4 win over Nayana Malangi. Gaddis won 6-4, 6-1 over Finley Laforge at No. 2. Latorre took her first set 6-2 at No. 3 and then held off MaryGrace Seymour in the next set 7-5. At No. 5, Steeman won a close first set 7-5 before cruising 6-2 in the second over Himari Maruyama. Montoya had a close first set at No. 4, falling 5-7, 2-6 to Belle Daniels. Angeliki Efthymiou had to retire from her No. 6 match, but the Tigers had the match at hand.Fort Hays State will be at home for its next three matches. The Tigers host Bethany (Kan.) College on Tuesday, March 24 before starting conference play on March 27 and 28 against Northwest Missouri State and Missouri Western.

🎾 Tigers run win streak to six matches, defeat Truman

WASHINGTON (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-election-takaichi-1df9580c5a018b28965cbed99565b4b7">Sanae Takaichi</a>&nbsp;sought to reaffirm her alliance with President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Thursday after the president this week seemed to complain that Japan was among the nations that did not quickly join his call to help protect the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ships-iran-oil-china-us-trump-hormuz-82a9acb473837f1bf7a821d0c3f95205">Strait of Hormuz</a>.

Takaichi, who met with Trump at the White House, told the Republican president that Japan has opposed Iran's development of its nuclear program and appealed to his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-peacemaker-wars-legacy-7017f99ef27c15aac727928395c853c1">desire to be seen as a peacemaker</a>, despite his launching a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-nato-strait-of-hormuz-europe-4e0cf38708e9c3ba8ea2a36148620067">war of choice with Iran</a>. She told the U.S. president through an interpreter that in the Middle East and around the world now, there was “a very severe security environment,” but said, “Even against that backdrop, I firmly believe that it is only you, Donald, who can achieve peace across the world.”

The two leaders had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-japan-south-korea-china-71658f169efc116ce01e888611955dac">warm words</a>&nbsp;for each other, including Trump calling the prime minister a “popular, powerful woman,” but there appeared to be some tension as they faced repeated questions from reporters about Japan's support for the Iran war.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Japanese Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-election-takaichi-1df9580c5a018b28965cbed99565b4b7">Sanae Takaichi</a>&nbsp;sought to reaffirm her alliance with President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Thursday after the president this week seemed to complain that Japan was among the nations that did not quickly join his call to help protect the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ships-iran-oil-china-us-trump-hormuz-82a9acb473837f1bf7a821d0c3f95205">Strait of Hormuz</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump welcomes the Prime Minister of Japan to the White House 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/YSisyAedxt">pic.twitter.com/YSisyAedxt</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/2034653941200253406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Why didn&#39;t you tell U.S. allies…about the war before attacking Iran?&quot; President Trump: &quot;We wanted surprise. Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn&#39;t you tell me about Pearl Harbor?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/esV9iyvMiV">pic.twitter.com/esV9iyvMiV</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2034667305318187239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Takaichi, who met with Trump at the White House, told the Republican president that Japan has opposed Iran's development of its nuclear program and appealed to his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-peacemaker-wars-legacy-7017f99ef27c15aac727928395c853c1">desire to be seen as a peacemaker</a>, despite his launching a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-nato-strait-of-hormuz-europe-4e0cf38708e9c3ba8ea2a36148620067">war of choice with Iran</a>. She told the U.S. president through an interpreter that in the Middle East and around the world now, there was “a very severe security environment,” but said, “Even against that backdrop, I firmly believe that it is only you, Donald, who can achieve peace across the world.”The two leaders had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-japan-south-korea-china-71658f169efc116ce01e888611955dac">warm words</a>&nbsp;for each other, including Trump calling the prime minister a “popular, powerful woman,” but there appeared to be some tension as they faced repeated questions from reporters about Japan's support for the Iran war.As Trump fielded questions during the roughly 30-minute public appearance with the prime minister in the Oval Office before their closed-door meeting, Taikaichi could be seen checking her watch. And then Trump made a particularly uncomfortable remark — invoking Japan’s 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor — when he was asked why the U.S. didn’t notify allies like Japan ahead of the strikes on Iran.“We didn’t tell anybody about it because we wanted surprise. Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn’t you tell me about Pearl Harbor, OK?” Trump joked.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Japanese Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/takaichi_sanae?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@takaichi_sanae</a>: &quot;I firmly believe that it is only you, Donald, who can achieve peace across the world. To do so, I am ready to reach out to many of the partners in the international community to achieve our objective together.&quot; 🇺🇸🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/EZ9rL9Xhep">pic.twitter.com/EZ9rL9Xhep</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2034660517332078595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>As Trump said that, Takaichi’s slight smile appeared to drop, and she raised her eyebrows.But the pair were all smiles in the evening, as Trump hosted a dinner in the prime minister's office. “This is a spectacular woman, and it’s an honor to have you at the White House," Trump said. Taikaichi referred to the leaders through an interpreter as “best buddies" before declaring, in English, “Japan is back.”Earlier Thursday, the leaders of five European countries and Japan issued a joint statement demanding that Iran stop attacks on the Strait of Hormuz that block commercial shipping, and said they are ready to contribute to “appropriate efforts” to ensure ships can pass safely through the strait, though it is not clear what that entails.Trump told reporters that he and Takaichi would be discussing in their meeting Japan’s level of support for the U.S. in the Iran war, saying, “They are really stepping up to the plate.” He did not offer details.The president later said that much of the oil Japan relies on passes through the Strait of Hormuz and said, “so that’s a big reason to step up. He also mentioned U.S. spending in Japan and the number of troops it has stationed there.“I expect Japan to step up, you know, because we have that kind of relationship,” Trump said.After her meeting with Trump, Takaichi told reporters that they agreed that ensuring the safety of the Strait of Hormuz was of the utmost importance, but she gave Trump a detailed explanation of the actions Japan can and cannot take under its law.<h2>A nuclear reactor deal announcement is e</h2><h2>xpected</h2>Taikaichi’s White House visit was supposed to give Japan’s new prime minister a prime opportunity to have Trump’s ear before he embarked on a trip to China.But now, the war in Iran and Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-iran-nato-strait-of-hormuz-europe-4e0cf38708e9c3ba8ea2a36148620067">call for Japan and other nations</a>&nbsp;to help protect the vital Strait of Hormuz means the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-delays-china-trip-iran-3ef73e58116cc0d89aab39ed15219bf6">China trip has been delayed</a>. Trump had repeatedly complained on camera and online this week that U.S. allies, including Japan,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-war-trump-starmer-macron-germany-caff1073f932ddb88c3d75c7c356ebc7">did not heed his request</a>&nbsp;to help safeguard the critical waterway for oil and gas transport. He later declared the help wasn’t needed, but made other comments indicating he still expected help.The prime minister acknowledged before she left Japan that she expected her meeting with Trump would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-us-takaichi-trump-iran-security-e98099783b5ff39610c1b2dbe1b61369">be “very difficult.”</a>Beyond facing questions about Iran, Takaichi and Trump on Thursday were working on a $40 billion nuclear reactor deal, according to a White House official, who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity to share details before the deal was formally announced.Under it, U.S.-based GE Vernova Inc. and Japan-based Hitachi Ltd. was set to build advanced small modular reactors in Tennessee and Alabama, the official said. The deal aims to help stabilize electricity prices and expand power generation in the U.S.<h2>The meeting carried high stakes</h2>Kurt Campbell, the former U.S. deputy secretary of state in the Biden administration and now chair of The Asia Group, said that to press for Japan’s interests, Takaichi needed to find a way to suggest that Japan is part of the U.S. plan in the Middle East.“She’s going to want to come out of that as a partner in this case and realize that if she can do that, that she can translate that potentially into the president listening more to Japanese concerns about Taiwan or other issues,” Campbell said.The constraints on Japan’s involvement in Iran include a provision in its post-World War II&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-e81086f67fa74218a22584878f764a2b">constitution that bans the use of force</a>&nbsp;except to defend its territory. The country’s military is called the Self-Defense Force.Christopher Johnstone, a partner and chair of the defense and national security practice at The Asia Group, said Japan could help with minesweeping and has had “a small naval presence” in the region as part of an anti-piracy mission for at least a decade. But to join the U.S. mission would require Takaichi to clear “an exceptionally high bar politically to invoke collective self-defense” that has never been done before.<h2>Takaichi wanted to focus on trade and security in the Indo-Pacific region</h2>Takaichi, who had her&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-japan-takaichi-trade-ford-trucks-e7be33728c7c3fdb6c314780c8a9a533">first meeting with Trump</a>&nbsp;in October in Tokyo, is Japan’s first female prime minister and a protégé of former leader Shinzo Abe, who developed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-japan-south-korea-china-71658f169efc116ce01e888611955dac">close relationship with Trump</a>.She is also a hard-line conservative and longtime supporter of Taiwan, whose comments about Japan’s willingness to provide military support to the island&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-japan-takaichi-taiwan-travel-advisory-4c8000c6f2d29cccc625d378362dc91d">have heightened tensions with China</a>.Takaichi said between her Oval Office meeting and the dinner that she and Trump discussed deepening U.S.-Japanese cooperation in regional security, critical minerals, energy and dealing with China.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taiwan-lai-chingte-china-military-drills-dcf815da920abc4c4ecc1073c779b160">China views self-governed Taiwan</a>, which the U.S. relies on for its production of computer chips, as its sovereign territory and has said it would take it by force if needed.But the Strait of Hormuz aside, the global implications of the Iran war have also put the Japanese leader in a tougher spot with Trump as she seeks to ensure U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific region.Japan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-china-us-north-korea-security-pacific-23f5c8e0b5f539dcf8b33261e74f7427">considers China a growing security threat</a>&nbsp;and has pushed a military buildup on southwestern islands near the East China Sea. But the U.S. has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-war-korea-japan-russia-china-9cfa951ff45fdefe6c48380ce5b431b5">shifted some troops</a>&nbsp;stationed in Japan to the Middle East, removing a check against China’s power.Those troop shifts came at the same time China is launching a large number of exercises around Taiwan.“This raises the prospect that — once again — the United States will be distracted and bogged down in the Middle East at a time when the deterrence problem in East Asia has never been greater,” Johnstone said.___Associated Press writer Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo and Jill Lawless in London contributed to this report.