By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals expect to have nine-time All-Star catcher Salvador Perez back next season.

They expect to have the same set of goals, too.

First on the list is a return to the playoffs, which they managed to accomplish in 2024 but failed to replicate this season. The Royals were in contention until last week, when the last of the AL wild cards proved to be too far out of reach, thanks in part to an inconsistent offense and a starting rotation that was ransacked by injuries.

“I have a tremendous amount of pride and gratitude for being in this position, and being able to lead this team, and a tremendous amount of pride in what we did do,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said during a wrap-up news conference Tuesday.

“There's also a tremendous amount of disappointment in the fact that we're not playing, because we believe in ourselves. Our internal expectations are extremely high, not only for winning and losing games but in how we perform, you know? Process-wise, decision-making, all those kinds of things. And all of those areas need to be improved.”

Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said most of the coaching staff would return from a club that finished 82-80 for its second straight winning season, though changes could be made in the hitting department. Alec Zumwalt will be back to lead the group, but he could have some new voices helping to direct an offense that too frequently failed to produce.

Most of the roster should return intact, too.

That includes Perez, their 35-year-old captain, who hit just .236 but finished with 30 homers and 100 RBIs. The Royals value not just his production but his leadership, especially for Carter Jensen, who dazzled in a small sample size after making his big league debut behind the plate late in the season.

The Royals have a $13.5 million club option on Perez next season, though a reworked deal could be in the works.

“We've already started those discussions,” Picollo said. “It's safe to say, one way or another, Salvy will be here in '26.”

The Royals are set across the infield with All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia and All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. coming off solid seasons, and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino hitting 32 homers and driving in 113 runs. Jonathan India is expected to play more at second base, his natural position, rather than fill in where the Royals had other needs.

Jac Caglianone will have an opportunity to start in right field on opening day after spending 62 games in the big leagues. The 22-year-old slugger dominated Triple-A pitching but struggled after his promotion, hitting .157 with seven homers and 18 RBIs.

The big question is whether Kansas City can upgrade elsewhere in the outfield. Kyle Isbel plays an above-average centerfield, but left field was especially bleak this season, and played a big part in an offense that struggled for long stretches.

Cole Ragans missed much of the season to injury, though his dominance over the final couple of weeks reinforced how good he can be when healthy. Ragans is a rotation lock along with Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha, a pair of dependable veterans.

The competition will be tough for the other spots. Noah Cameron had a brilliant rookie season, going 9-7 with a 2.99 ERA, and has the inside track on one of the jobs. Kris Bubic is the favorite for another after a season in which he went 8-7, posted a 2.55 ERA, earned his first All-Star trip but ultimately finished on the injured list with a strained rotator cuff

Where does that leave Ryan Bergert, Stephen Kolek and Bailey Falter? Depth is never a bad thing, but the Royals also could use some of them as trade pieces in an effort to upgrade their offense this offseason.

Carlos Estévez joined Dan Quisenberry as the only Royals relievers to lead the majors in saves, finishing with 42; he remains under contract for next season. So does Lucas Erceg, who was shut down in September with shoulder fatigue, and fellow late-inning specialists Daniel Lynch IV and John Schneider.

The Royals hope for better health for Hunter Harvey, who made just 12 appearances but did not allow a run, and James McArthur, who missed the entire season after experiencing setbacks following an elbow procedure the previous offseason.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759332858268.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez looks to the scoreboard after striking out during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Athletics Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in West Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Sara Nevis)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Salvador Perez looks to the scoreboard after striking out during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Athletics Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in West Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Sara Nevis)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Royals expect to have nine-time All-Star catcher Salvador Perez back next season.They expect to have the same set of goals, too.First on the list is a return to the playoffs, which they managed to accomplish in 2024 but failed to replicate this season. The Royals were in contention until last week, when the last of the AL wild cards proved to be too far out of reach, thanks in part to an inconsistent offense and a starting rotation that was ransacked by injuries.“I have a tremendous amount of pride and gratitude for being in this position, and being able to lead this team, and a tremendous amount of pride in what we did do,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said during a wrap-up news conference Tuesday.“There's also a tremendous amount of disappointment in the fact that we're not playing, because we believe in ourselves. Our internal expectations are extremely high, not only for winning and losing games but in how we perform, you know? Process-wise, decision-making, all those kinds of things. And all of those areas need to be improved.”Royals general manager J.J. Picollo said most of the coaching staff would return from a club that finished 82-80 for its second straight winning season, though changes could be made in the hitting department. Alec Zumwalt will be back to lead the group, but he could have some new voices helping to direct an offense that too frequently failed to produce.Most of the roster should return intact, too.That includes Perez, their 35-year-old captain, who hit just .236 but finished with 30 homers and 100 RBIs. The Royals value not just his production but his leadership, especially for Carter Jensen, who dazzled in a small sample size after making his big league debut behind the plate late in the season.The Royals have a $13.5 million club option on Perez next season, though a reworked deal could be in the works.“We've already started those discussions,” Picollo said. “It's safe to say, one way or another, Salvy will be here in '26.”<h2>The rest of the lineup</h2>The Royals are set across the infield with All-Star third baseman Maikel Garcia and All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. coming off solid seasons, and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino hitting 32 homers and driving in 113 runs. Jonathan India is expected to play more at second base, his natural position, rather than fill in where the Royals had other needs.Jac Caglianone will have an opportunity to start in right field on opening day after spending 62 games in the big leagues. The 22-year-old slugger dominated Triple-A pitching but struggled after his promotion, hitting .157 with seven homers and 18 RBIs.The big question is whether Kansas City can upgrade elsewhere in the outfield. Kyle Isbel plays an above-average centerfield, but left field was especially bleak this season, and played a big part in an offense that struggled for long stretches.<h2>Rotation rundown</h2>Cole Ragans missed much of the season to injury, though his dominance over the final couple of weeks reinforced how good he can be when healthy. Ragans is a rotation lock along with Seth Lugo and Michael Wacha, a pair of dependable veterans.The competition will be tough for the other spots. Noah Cameron had a brilliant rookie season, going 9-7 with a 2.99 ERA, and has the inside track on one of the jobs. Kris Bubic is the favorite for another after a season in which he went 8-7, posted a 2.55 ERA, earned his first All-Star trip but ultimately finished on the injured list with a strained rotator cuffWhere does that leave Ryan Bergert, Stephen Kolek and Bailey Falter? Depth is never a bad thing, but the Royals also could use some of them as trade pieces in an effort to upgrade their offense this offseason.<h2>Bullpen situation</h2>Carlos Estévez joined Dan Quisenberry as the only Royals relievers to lead the majors in saves, finishing with 42; he remains under contract for next season. So does Lucas Erceg, who was shut down in September with shoulder fatigue, and fellow late-inning specialists Daniel Lynch IV and John Schneider.The Royals hope for better health for Hunter Harvey, who made just 12 appearances but did not allow a run, and James McArthur, who missed the entire season after experiencing setbacks following an elbow procedure the previous offseason.

⚾ Salvy expected to return to Royals in 2026, team eyes playoff comeback

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

The Fort Hays State University assistant professor defended her Facebook posts about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Nuchelle Chance of the psychology department posted a TikTok video Monday saying she is being targeted online by Libs of TikTok, an X account with 4.4 million followers, and other online accounts.

On Sept. 10, the day Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a debate at Utah Valley University, Chance posted the following the same day:

"In my post, I just stated that there's karma," Chance said in the TikTok video. "There's irony associated with that, and that's by no means to celebrate someone's death."

Chance added when she thinks of karma and irony, she thinks of it in a scientific sense rather than a mythical one. Chance compared the death of Kirk to Newton's laws of physics, saying that energy is not destroyed.&nbsp;

"I believe that it's passed and transferred. The energy that one puts out, one receives," Chance said.

Chance also made the following post on her social media:

In her video response, she pointed out FBI statistics about the demographics of mass shooters.&nbsp;

"Not that I conclude that every single white American man is a terrorist or potentially violent. I mean, I come from a white home. I'm actually biracial, and I'm half white myself," Chance said.

Chance said that events like 9/11 and the Virginia Tech shooting have shaped her views on gun control and that they should not impact her work.

"Who I am as a person outside of my professional spaces should never be put under attack," she said. "The institution that I am an employee at has been put in a hard place. I'm black in America. I get hard places."

Scott Cason, FHSU’s chief communications officer, said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2025/09/fort-hays-state-university-statement-regarding-recent-social-media-post-about-race-and-violence#gsc.tab=0">press release</a>&nbsp;the university is aware of content on the X account Libs of TikTok linking a faculty member to social media posts about Charlie Kirk.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Individuals who post commentaries to their personal social media accounts do not speak for the University, nor does their commentary reflect the views or values of this university," Cason said.

Cason said FHSU is reviewing the situation as a confidential personnel matter and asks for patience as they address it.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/67bf5501-02df-472c-a43a-a4ff11ff5305">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU assistant professor under review for posts about Charlie Kirk</a>

"Although I am mentally exhausted, I realized that no one's going to speak up for you but yourself. You have to be your own advocate," Chance said. "I refuse to be anyone's victim."

Libs of TikTok, a right-wing social media account that curates and reposts videos designed to provoke outrage among conservative followers, posted the following Sunday and tagged the FHSU X page.&nbsp;

The university also shared its press release on its X page, where Libs of TikTok responded with criticism.

"Sorry, but I don't have 'patience' for professors who call white Americans 'dangerous animals' and mock the murder of a young father. This statement says absolutely nothing," the X post said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759250997358.png" alt="Nuchelle Chance" />
 <figcaption>Nuchelle Chance</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostThe Fort Hays State University assistant professor defended her Facebook posts about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.Nuchelle Chance of the psychology department posted a TikTok video Monday saying she is being targeted online by Libs of TikTok, an X account with 4.4 million followers, and other online accounts.<div><blockquote class="tiktok-embed" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@drchancespeaks/video/7555678574372490527" data-video-id="7555678574372490527" style="max-width: 605px;min-width: 325px;" > <section> <a target="_blank" title="@drchancespeaks" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@drchancespeaks?refer=embed">@drchancespeaks</a> When <a title="maga" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/maga?refer=embed">#MAGA</a> attacks.... your <a title="academicfreedom" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/academicfreedom?refer=embed">#academicfreedom</a> and <a title="firstamendment" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/firstamendment?refer=embed">#firstamendment</a> rights are discarded. <a title="charliekirk" target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/charliekirk?refer=embed">#CharlieKirk</a> sympathizers think they can break me..... but my resolve is different. Thanks @xx_shotgunmary_xx <a target="_blank" title="♬ original sound - dr.chance_speaks" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7555678616902798111?refer=embed">♬ original sound - dr.chance_speaks</a> </section> </blockquote> <script async src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script></div>On Sept. 10, the day Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a debate at Utah Valley University, Chance posted the following the same day:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759177549706.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"In my post, I just stated that there's karma," Chance said in the TikTok video. "There's irony associated with that, and that's by no means to celebrate someone's death."Chance added when she thinks of karma and irony, she thinks of it in a scientific sense rather than a mythical one. Chance compared the death of Kirk to Newton's laws of physics, saying that energy is not destroyed.&nbsp;"I believe that it's passed and transferred. The energy that one puts out, one receives," Chance said.Chance also made the following post on her social media:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759177637900.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>In her video response, she pointed out FBI statistics about the demographics of mass shooters.&nbsp;"Not that I conclude that every single white American man is a terrorist or potentially violent. I mean, I come from a white home. I'm actually biracial, and I'm half white myself," Chance said.Chance said that events like 9/11 and the Virginia Tech shooting have shaped her views on gun control and that they should not impact her work."Who I am as a person outside of my professional spaces should never be put under attack," she said. "The institution that I am an employee at has been put in a hard place. I'm black in America. I get hard places."Scott Cason, FHSU’s chief communications officer, said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2025/09/fort-hays-state-university-statement-regarding-recent-social-media-post-about-race-and-violence#gsc.tab=0">press release</a>&nbsp;the university is aware of content on the X account Libs of TikTok linking a faculty member to social media posts about Charlie Kirk.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Individuals who post commentaries to their personal social media accounts do not speak for the University, nor does their commentary reflect the views or values of this university," Cason said.Cason said FHSU is reviewing the situation as a confidential personnel matter and asks for patience as they address it.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/67bf5501-02df-472c-a43a-a4ff11ff5305">SEE RELATED STORY: FHSU assistant professor under review for posts about Charlie Kirk</a>"Although I am mentally exhausted, I realized that no one's going to speak up for you but yourself. You have to be your own advocate," Chance said. "I refuse to be anyone's victim."Libs of TikTok, a right-wing social media account that curates and reposts videos designed to provoke outrage among conservative followers, posted the following Sunday and tagged the FHSU X page.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759244937509.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The university also shared its press release on its X page, where Libs of TikTok responded with criticism."Sorry, but I don't have 'patience' for professors who call white Americans 'dangerous animals' and mock the murder of a young father. This statement says absolutely nothing," the X post said.

FHSU assistant professor under review for Charlie Kirk posts responds

WASHINGTON (AP) —President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;says he will slap a 100% tax on movies made outside the United States — a vague directive aimed at protecting a business that America already dominates.

Claiming that movie production “has been stolen’’ from Hollywood and the U.S., Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that “I will be imposing a 100% tariff on any and all movies that are made outside of the United States.’’

It was unclear how these tariffs would operate, since movies and TV shows can be transmitted digitally without going through ports. Also unclear is what it would mean for U.S. movies filmed on foreign locations — think James Bond and Jason Bourne — or what legal basis the president would claim for imposing the tariffs.

The president had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-films-hollywood-tariff-movies-415367dff6ae5bb7dc0871db5ac97d48">first issued the threat back in May</a>. He has yet to specify when the tariff might go into effect.

Movies are an odd battleground for a U.S. trade war. "Unlike any other country’s film industry, U.S. movies are the most accessible, well-known, and best performing due to the numerous language options and worldwide reach provided by U.S.-based studios,'' trade analyst Jacob Jensen of the center-right American Action Forum wrote in a July commentary.

In movie theaters, American-produced movies overwhelmingly dominate the domestic marketplace. Data from the Motion Picture Association also shows that American films made $22.6 billion in exports and $15.3 billion in trade surplus in 2023 — with a recent report noting that these films “generated a positive balance of trade in every major market in the world” for the U.S.

Barry Appleton, co-director of the Center for International Law at the New York Law Center, warned that other countries may retaliate with levies on American movies or other services. In movies, “Brand America is way, way ahead,’’ he said. “What this policy does is actually cook the golden goose that’s laying the golden eggs.’’

Tariffs are Trump's go-to solution for America's economic problems, a tool he likes to use to extract concessions from other countries. Reversing decades of U.S. support for lower trade barriers, he's slapped double-digit tariffs on imports from almost every country on earth. And he's targeted specific products, including most recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trade-trump-pharmaceuticals-trucks-cabinets-3f33cb3f2dfac460cb1e48a06f89c3a9">pharmaceuticals, heavy trucks, kitchen cabinets</a>&nbsp;and bathroom vanities.

Unlike other sectors that have recently been targeted by tariffs, movies go beyond physical goods, bringing larger intellectual property ramifications into question.

Why is Trump threatening this steep movie tariff?

Trump has cited national security concerns, a justification he’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariff-justifications-50f0b4416234e63c7136eaa5c5f96759">similarly used</a>&nbsp;to impose import taxes on certain countries and a range of sector-specific goods.

In May, Trump claimed that the American movie industry is “DYING to a very fast death” as other countries offer “all sorts of incentives” to draw filmmaking away from the U.S.

In recent years, U.S. film and television production has been hampered between setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hollywood-strikes/">the Hollywood guild strikes</a>&nbsp;of 2023 and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-oscars-los-angeles-academy-awards-da8cd994872ac6c1c65dcd4bc8721cc5">the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area</a>. Incentive programs have also long-influenced where movies are shot both abroad and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-film-movie-tax-credit-break-1fbd0e52337080320f3761a176199a8e">within the U.S.</a>, with more production leaving California to states like Georgia and New Mexico — as well as countries like Canada.

At the same time, international markets make up a large chunk of Hollywood's total box office revenue — accounting for over 70% last year, according Heeyon Kim, an assistant professor of strategy at Cornell University. She warned that tariffs and potential retaliation from other countries impacting this industry could result in billions of dollars in lost earnings and thousands of jobs.

“To me, (this) makes just no sense,” Kim&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-films-hollywood-tariff-movies-415367dff6ae5bb7dc0871db5ac97d48">previously told</a>&nbsp;The Associated Press, adding that such tariffs could “undermine otherwise a thriving part of the U.S. economy.”

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, which represents behind-the-scenes entertainment workers across the U.S. and Canada, said in May that Trump had “correctly recognized” the “urgent threat from international competition” that the American film and television industry faces today. But the union said it instead recommended the administration implement a federal production tax incentive and other provisions to “level the playing field” while not harming the industry overall.

How could a tax on foreign-made movies work?

“Traditional tariffs apply to physical imports crossing borders, but film production primarily involves digital services — shooting, editing and post-production work that happens electronically,” Ann Koppuzha, a lawyer and business law lecturer at Santa Clara University’s Leavey School of Business, explained when Trump first made his May threat.

Koppuzha added that film production is more like an applied service that can be taxed, not tariffed. But taxes require Congressional approval, which could be a challenge even with a Republican majority.

Making a movie is also an incredibly complex — and international — process. It’s common for both large and small films to include production in the U.S. and in other countries, or overseas altogether. Steven Schiffman, a longtime industry veteran and adjunct professor at Georgetown University, pointed to popular titles filmed outside the U.S. — such as Warner Bros’ “Harry Potter” series, which was almost entirely shot in the U.K.

U.S. studios shoot abroad because tax incentives can aid production costs. But a blanket tariff across the board could discourage that or limit options — hurting both Hollywood films and the global industry that helps create them.

“When you make these sort of blanket rules, you’re missing some of the nuance of how production works,” Schiffman said previously. “Sometimes you just need to go to the location, because frankly it’s way too expensive just to try to create in a soundstage”

Could movie tariffs have repercussions on other intellectual property?

Overall, experts warn that the prospect of tariffing foreign-made movies ventures into uncharted waters.

“There’s simply no precedent,” Koppuzha said in May. And while the Trump administration could extend similar threats to other forms of intellectual property, like music, “they’d encounter the same practical hurdles.”

But if successful, some also warn of potential retaliation. Kim pointed to “quotas” that some countries have had to help boost their domestic films by ensuring they get a portion of theater screens, for example.

Many have reduced or suspended such quotas over the years in the name of open trade — but if the U.S. places a sweeping tariff on all foreign-made films, these kinds of quotas could come back, “which would hurt Hollywood film or any of the U.S.-made intellectual property,” Kim said.

And while U.S. dominance in film means “there are fewer substitutes” for retaliation, Schiffman noted that other forms of entertainment — like game development — could see related impacts down the road.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759177455503.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;says he will slap a 100% tax on movies made outside the United States — a vague directive aimed at protecting a business that America already dominates.Claiming that movie production “has been stolen’’ from Hollywood and the U.S., Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that “I will be imposing a 100% tariff on any and all movies that are made outside of the United States.’’<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/wyLUTF59iH">pic.twitter.com/wyLUTF59iH</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1972646867801673985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>It was unclear how these tariffs would operate, since movies and TV shows can be transmitted digitally without going through ports. Also unclear is what it would mean for U.S. movies filmed on foreign locations — think James Bond and Jason Bourne — or what legal basis the president would claim for imposing the tariffs.The president had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-films-hollywood-tariff-movies-415367dff6ae5bb7dc0871db5ac97d48">first issued the threat back in May</a>. He has yet to specify when the tariff might go into effect.Movies are an odd battleground for a U.S. trade war. "Unlike any other country’s film industry, U.S. movies are the most accessible, well-known, and best performing due to the numerous language options and worldwide reach provided by U.S.-based studios,'' trade analyst Jacob Jensen of the center-right American Action Forum wrote in a July commentary.In movie theaters, American-produced movies overwhelmingly dominate the domestic marketplace. Data from the Motion Picture Association also shows that American films made $22.6 billion in exports and $15.3 billion in trade surplus in 2023 — with a recent report noting that these films “generated a positive balance of trade in every major market in the world” for the U.S.Barry Appleton, co-director of the Center for International Law at the New York Law Center, warned that other countries may retaliate with levies on American movies or other services. In movies, “Brand America is way, way ahead,’’ he said. “What this policy does is actually cook the golden goose that’s laying the golden eggs.’’Tariffs are Trump's go-to solution for America's economic problems, a tool he likes to use to extract concessions from other countries. Reversing decades of U.S. support for lower trade barriers, he's slapped double-digit tariffs on imports from almost every country on earth. And he's targeted specific products, including most recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trade-trump-pharmaceuticals-trucks-cabinets-3f33cb3f2dfac460cb1e48a06f89c3a9">pharmaceuticals, heavy trucks, kitchen cabinets</a>&nbsp;and bathroom vanities.Unlike other sectors that have recently been targeted by tariffs, movies go beyond physical goods, bringing larger intellectual property ramifications into question.Here’s what we know.<h2>Why is Trump threatening this steep movie tariff?</h2>Trump has cited national security concerns, a justification he’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariff-justifications-50f0b4416234e63c7136eaa5c5f96759">similarly used</a>&nbsp;to impose import taxes on certain countries and a range of sector-specific goods.In May, Trump claimed that the American movie industry is “DYING to a very fast death” as other countries offer “all sorts of incentives” to draw filmmaking away from the U.S.In recent years, U.S. film and television production has been hampered between setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hollywood-strikes/">the Hollywood guild strikes</a>&nbsp;of 2023 and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-oscars-los-angeles-academy-awards-da8cd994872ac6c1c65dcd4bc8721cc5">the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area</a>. Incentive programs have also long-influenced where movies are shot both abroad and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-film-movie-tax-credit-break-1fbd0e52337080320f3761a176199a8e">within the U.S.</a>, with more production leaving California to states like Georgia and New Mexico — as well as countries like Canada.At the same time, international markets make up a large chunk of Hollywood's total box office revenue — accounting for over 70% last year, according Heeyon Kim, an assistant professor of strategy at Cornell University. She warned that tariffs and potential retaliation from other countries impacting this industry could result in billions of dollars in lost earnings and thousands of jobs.“To me, (this) makes just no sense,” Kim&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-films-hollywood-tariff-movies-415367dff6ae5bb7dc0871db5ac97d48">previously told</a>&nbsp;The Associated Press, adding that such tariffs could “undermine otherwise a thriving part of the U.S. economy.”The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, which represents behind-the-scenes entertainment workers across the U.S. and Canada, said in May that Trump had “correctly recognized” the “urgent threat from international competition” that the American film and television industry faces today. But the union said it instead recommended the administration implement a federal production tax incentive and other provisions to “level the playing field” while not harming the industry overall.<h2>How could a tax on foreign-made movies work?</h2>That’s anyone’s guess.“Traditional tariffs apply to physical imports crossing borders, but film production primarily involves digital services — shooting, editing and post-production work that happens electronically,” Ann Koppuzha, a lawyer and business law lecturer at Santa Clara University’s Leavey School of Business, explained when Trump first made his May threat.Koppuzha added that film production is more like an applied service that can be taxed, not tariffed. But taxes require Congressional approval, which could be a challenge even with a Republican majority.Making a movie is also an incredibly complex — and international — process. It’s common for both large and small films to include production in the U.S. and in other countries, or overseas altogether. Steven Schiffman, a longtime industry veteran and adjunct professor at Georgetown University, pointed to popular titles filmed outside the U.S. — such as Warner Bros’ “Harry Potter” series, which was almost entirely shot in the U.K.U.S. studios shoot abroad because tax incentives can aid production costs. But a blanket tariff across the board could discourage that or limit options — hurting both Hollywood films and the global industry that helps create them.“When you make these sort of blanket rules, you’re missing some of the nuance of how production works,” Schiffman said previously. “Sometimes you just need to go to the location, because frankly it’s way too expensive just to try to create in a soundstage”<h2>Could movie tariffs have repercussions on other intellectual property?</h2>Overall, experts warn that the prospect of tariffing foreign-made movies ventures into uncharted waters.“There’s simply no precedent,” Koppuzha said in May. And while the Trump administration could extend similar threats to other forms of intellectual property, like music, “they’d encounter the same practical hurdles.”But if successful, some also warn of potential retaliation. Kim pointed to “quotas” that some countries have had to help boost their domestic films by ensuring they get a portion of theater screens, for example.Many have reduced or suspended such quotas over the years in the name of open trade — but if the U.S. places a sweeping tariff on all foreign-made films, these kinds of quotas could come back, “which would hurt Hollywood film or any of the U.S.-made intellectual property,” Kim said.And while U.S. dominance in film means “there are fewer substitutes” for retaliation, Schiffman noted that other forms of entertainment — like game development — could see related impacts down the road.____

Why President Trump is threatening a steep movie tariff

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Overnight rain in Hays yielded an official 0.23 of an inch of rain according to the K-State Agriculture Research Center south of town.

The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, measured 0.30 of an inch of rain.

Hays has exceeded the annual amount of moisture received by the end of September. It currently stands at 22.73 inches. The 158-year cumulative amount of annual moisture received by Sept. 30 is 21.38 inches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755526171677.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostOvernight rain in Hays yielded an official 0.23 of an inch of rain according to the K-State Agriculture Research Center south of town.The Eagle Media Center, 2300 Hall, measured 0.30 of an inch of rain.Hays has exceeded the annual amount of moisture received by the end of September. It currently stands at 22.73 inches. The 158-year cumulative amount of annual moisture received by Sept. 30 is 21.38 inches.

Overnight rain in Hays continues to push total moisture to above average

Outdoor watering restrictions in Hays which started June 1 will end Tuesday, Sept. 30. 

Until then, outdoor water use is prohibited between noon and 7 p.m., including from private wells.&nbsp;

In addition to the seasonal restrictions, Holly Dickman, water conservation specialist, said the following are banned year-round:

• Washing down of hardscapes such as sidewalks, parking lots, driveways • Known water loss through breaks, leaks in plumbing systems • Escape of water from private property onto public property such as&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;landscape irrigation onto sidewalks, street gutters

If the weather is warm and windy in October, Dickman encouraged watering landscape plants and turfgrass if necessary.

"Fortunately, with cooler night temperatures and shorter days, the need for supplemental irrigation is greatly reduced," she said. "Always be sure to check the soil moisture first before turning on the irrigation system or garden hose."

Dickman said fall is also an excellent time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs as well as many drought-tolerant perennials.

"The cooler temperatures make the environment less stressful, while the warm soil temperatures encourage good root growth," she said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589921488065.png" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostOutdoor watering restrictions in Hays which started June 1 will end Tuesday, Sept. 30. Until then, outdoor water use is prohibited between noon and 7 p.m., including from private wells.&nbsp;In addition to the seasonal restrictions, Holly Dickman, water conservation specialist, said the following are banned year-round:• Washing down of hardscapes such as sidewalks, parking lots, driveways • Known water loss through breaks, leaks in plumbing systems • Escape of water from private property onto public property such as&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;landscape irrigation onto sidewalks, street guttersIf the weather is warm and windy in October, Dickman encouraged watering landscape plants and turfgrass if necessary."Fortunately, with cooler night temperatures and shorter days, the need for supplemental irrigation is greatly reduced," she said. "Always be sure to check the soil moisture first before turning on the irrigation system or garden hose."Dickman said fall is also an excellent time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs as well as many drought-tolerant perennials."The cooler temperatures make the environment less stressful, while the warm soil temperatures encourage good root growth," she said.&nbsp;

Outdoor seasonal watering restrictions end Sept. 30 in Hays

WASHINGTON (AP) —Hamas said Tuesday it will discuss&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-israel-hamas-palestinians-peace-plan-ce2e84de8aa5fd308fe751ae9c3118e8">U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza</a>&nbsp;within the group and with other Palestinian factions before responding. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already thrown his support behind it but it’s unclear whether Hamas will agree and when it would give its response.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-plan-gaza-israel-hamas-war-d5bb4097af1d46ba16ab20914d265ff7">proposal demands that Hamas effectively surrender</a>&nbsp;and disarm in return for an end to fighting, humanitarian aid for Palestinians and the promise of reconstruction in Gaza — all desperately hoped for by the population in the devastated territory where the death toll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;has topped 66,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

Meanwhile, backing and support were pouring in for the proposal from the international community. Trump and Netanyahu said after talks Monday in the White House that they had agreed on the plan.

Israeli foreign minister says it's now up to Hamas

Gideon Saar said that his country has accepted Trump’s "plan for ending the war in Gaza and for a better future" that it is now up to Hamas to announce its position.

“We will now see if Hamas accepts the president’s plan,” Saar said during a visit to Belgrade, Serbia’s capital.

He accused Hamas of trying in the past to change the terms or avoid implementing any past agreements. “We will see," he said.

“We want to see our hostages come home after two years … Alive and dead,” Saar said. “We also want to see a different Gaza: deradicalized, demilitarized and no longer posing a threat to Israel and its citizens.”

Serbia’s Foreign Minister Marko Djuric said Belgrade also backs the peace proposal and demands the release of the hostages held in Gaza, one of whom holds dual Israeli-Serbian citizenship.

The Kremlin says Russia hopes Trump's plan for Gaza succeeds

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a call with reporters that Russia welcomes Trump's efforts aimed at "ending the ongoing tragedy” and that Moscow officials "certainly wish that this plan is implemented and helps achieve peace in the Middle East.”

Peskov noted that Russia has maintained contacts with all parties to the conflict and stands ready to take efforts to help the settlement if asked to do so.

The UN, though not involved in Trump's plan, says it's ready to step up Gaza aid

The United Nations says it's prepared to increase aid deliveries into Gaza whenever possible. Deliveries by U.N. agencies and its partners have been largely limited in recent months as Israel has allowed a separate organization — the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation — to ferry in aid.

Trump's plan says that aid entries will proceed “without interference” by Israel or Hamas “through the United Nations and its agencies, and the Red Crescent” in addition to other international institutions “not associated in any manner with either party.”

Alessandra Vellucci, a U.N. Geneva spokesperson, said the world body is in contact “with the various parties about the peace efforts ... we welcome all the mediation.”

Jens Laerke, a spokesman for U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said the U.N. stands "ready and prepared and capable to increase aid deliveries inside Gaza, whenever the opportunity is such that we are allowed to do so and the ... safety and security of doing so is there indeed.”

China reiterates its support for a 2-state solution

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing calls “on all relevant parties” to “immediately achieve a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, release all detainees and alleviate the humanitarian disaster in the region as soon as possible.”

China supports a two-state solution and is willing to work with the international community for a “comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution of the Palestinian issue,” Guo added.

Germany's chancellor says Trump's plan is ‘best chance for ending the war’

Chancellor Friedrich Merz thanked Trump for his “persistent efforts” and Arab and Muslim countries in the Middle East for their “influence” with Hamas. He said Germany remained in close contact with its European neighbors and the United States on the issue.

Merz's came shortly after Merz on Tuesday hosted relatives of German hostages of Hamas. During the meeting, he said the suffering of the hostages “must end now,” and called on Hamas to release all hostages, according to the statement.

Spain says a 2-state solution is the ‘only possible one’ for Israel and the Palestinians

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed the U.S. peace proposal and said a two-state solution was “the only possible one” for the Middle East.

“It is time for the violence to cease, for the immediate release of all the hostages to take place, and for humanitarian aid to be provided to the civilian population,” Sánchez wrote on X.

Spain has been an outspoken critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, with Sánchez earlier this month calling Israel’s conduct a genocide.

Turkey ready to help the Gaza flotilla with humanitarian needs

Turkey’s defense ministry says it's closely monitoring the eastern Mediterranean and that its ships in the region are prepared to assist “humanitarian missions if needed” — a reference to the Gaza-bound&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-flotilla-italy-spain-000441922caa2c88cf73203e83d3e6e2">Global Sumud Flotilla</a>&nbsp;seeking to break the Israeli blockade of the territory.

A day earlier, Turkish navy helped evacuate activists on board Johnny M, one of the flotilla vessels — after it began taking in water in an area off the coast of Crete, Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency reported.

Meanwhile, at least three activists working with the flotilla from Egypt were arrested in Cairo, the flotilla committee said. It's unclear where they are being detained.

Some of the activists in Egypt plan to join the group of more than 50 small vessels carrying activists from dozens of countries attempting to break Israel’s blockade on Gaza.

The flotilla includes 52 mostly small vessels carrying activists from dozens of countries and a symbolic amount of humanitarian aid, mainly food and medicine, for Palestinians in Gaza.

‘Hamas has no choice’ but to release hostages and accept the peace plan, Macron says

French President Emmanuel Macron says he welcomes Trump’s “commitment to ending the war in Gaza and securing the release of all hostages.”

“I expect Israel to engage resolutely on this basis. Hamas has no choice but to immediately release all hostages and follow this plan,” Macron posted on X.

“These elements must pave the way for in-depth discussions with all relevant partners to build a lasting peace in the region, based on the two-state solution,” he wrote. “France stands ready to contribute. It will remain vigilant regarding the commitments of each party.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759172020282.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Hamas said Tuesday it will discuss&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-israel-hamas-palestinians-peace-plan-ce2e84de8aa5fd308fe751ae9c3118e8">U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza</a>&nbsp;within the group and with other Palestinian factions before responding. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already thrown his support behind it but it’s unclear whether Hamas will agree and when it would give its response.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Donald J. Trump’s Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict: 1. Gaza will be a deradicalized terror-free zone that does not pose a threat to its neighbors. 2. Gaza will be redeveloped for the benefit of the people of Gaza, who have suffered more than enough. 3. If… <a href="https://t.co/veqhr9MW28">pic.twitter.com/veqhr9MW28</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1972726021196562494?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-plan-gaza-israel-hamas-war-d5bb4097af1d46ba16ab20914d265ff7">proposal demands that Hamas effectively surrender</a>&nbsp;and disarm in return for an end to fighting, humanitarian aid for Palestinians and the promise of reconstruction in Gaza — all desperately hoped for by the population in the devastated territory where the death toll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;has topped 66,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.Meanwhile, backing and support were pouring in for the proposal from the international community. Trump and Netanyahu said after talks Monday in the White House that they had agreed on the plan.Here's the latest:<h2>Israeli foreign minister says it's now up to Hamas</h2>Gideon Saar said that his country has accepted Trump’s "plan for ending the war in Gaza and for a better future" that it is now up to Hamas to announce its position.“We will now see if Hamas accepts the president’s plan,” Saar said during a visit to Belgrade, Serbia’s capital.He accused Hamas of trying in the past to change the terms or avoid implementing any past agreements. “We will see," he said.“We want to see our hostages come home after two years … Alive and dead,” Saar said. “We also want to see a different Gaza: deradicalized, demilitarized and no longer posing a threat to Israel and its citizens.”Serbia’s Foreign Minister Marko Djuric said Belgrade also backs the peace proposal and demands the release of the hostages held in Gaza, one of whom holds dual Israeli-Serbian citizenship.<h2>The Kremlin says Russia hopes Trump's plan for Gaza succeeds</h2>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in a call with reporters that Russia welcomes Trump's efforts aimed at "ending the ongoing tragedy” and that Moscow officials "certainly wish that this plan is implemented and helps achieve peace in the Middle East.”Peskov noted that Russia has maintained contacts with all parties to the conflict and stands ready to take efforts to help the settlement if asked to do so.<h2>The UN, though not involved in Trump's plan, says it's ready to step up Gaza aid</h2>The United Nations says it's prepared to increase aid deliveries into Gaza whenever possible. Deliveries by U.N. agencies and its partners have been largely limited in recent months as Israel has allowed a separate organization — the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation — to ferry in aid.Trump's plan says that aid entries will proceed “without interference” by Israel or Hamas “through the United Nations and its agencies, and the Red Crescent” in addition to other international institutions “not associated in any manner with either party.”Alessandra Vellucci, a U.N. Geneva spokesperson, said the world body is in contact “with the various parties about the peace efforts ... we welcome all the mediation.”Jens Laerke, a spokesman for U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said the U.N. stands "ready and prepared and capable to increase aid deliveries inside Gaza, whenever the opportunity is such that we are allowed to do so and the ... safety and security of doing so is there indeed.”<h2>China reiterates its support for a 2-state solution</h2>Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing calls “on all relevant parties” to “immediately achieve a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, release all detainees and alleviate the humanitarian disaster in the region as soon as possible.”China supports a two-state solution and is willing to work with the international community for a “comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution of the Palestinian issue,” Guo added.<h2>Germany's chancellor says Trump's plan is ‘best chance for ending the war’</h2>Chancellor Friedrich Merz thanked Trump for his “persistent efforts” and Arab and Muslim countries in the Middle East for their “influence” with Hamas. He said Germany remained in close contact with its European neighbors and the United States on the issue.Merz's came shortly after Merz on Tuesday hosted relatives of German hostages of Hamas. During the meeting, he said the suffering of the hostages “must end now,” and called on Hamas to release all hostages, according to the statement.<h2>Spain says a 2-state solution is the ‘only possible one’ for Israel and the Palestinians</h2>Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez welcomed the U.S. peace proposal and said a two-state solution was “the only possible one” for the Middle East.“It is time for the violence to cease, for the immediate release of all the hostages to take place, and for humanitarian aid to be provided to the civilian population,” Sánchez wrote on X.Spain has been an outspoken critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, with Sánchez earlier this month calling Israel’s conduct a genocide.<h2>Turkey ready to help the Gaza flotilla with humanitarian needs</h2>Turkey’s defense ministry says it's closely monitoring the eastern Mediterranean and that its ships in the region are prepared to assist “humanitarian missions if needed” — a reference to the Gaza-bound&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-flotilla-italy-spain-000441922caa2c88cf73203e83d3e6e2">Global Sumud Flotilla</a>&nbsp;seeking to break the Israeli blockade of the territory.A day earlier, Turkish navy helped evacuate activists on board Johnny M, one of the flotilla vessels — after it began taking in water in an area off the coast of Crete, Turkey’s state-run Anadolu Agency reported.Meanwhile, at least three activists working with the flotilla from Egypt were arrested in Cairo, the flotilla committee said. It's unclear where they are being detained.Some of the activists in Egypt plan to join the group of more than 50 small vessels carrying activists from dozens of countries attempting to break Israel’s blockade on Gaza.The flotilla includes 52 mostly small vessels carrying activists from dozens of countries and a symbolic amount of humanitarian aid, mainly food and medicine, for Palestinians in Gaza.<h2>‘Hamas has no choice’ but to release hostages and accept the peace plan, Macron says</h2>French President Emmanuel Macron says he welcomes Trump’s “commitment to ending the war in Gaza and securing the release of all hostages.”“I expect Israel to engage resolutely on this basis. Hamas has no choice but to immediately release all hostages and follow this plan,” Macron posted on X.“These elements must pave the way for in-depth discussions with all relevant partners to build a lasting peace in the region, based on the two-state solution,” he wrote. “France stands ready to contribute. It will remain vigilant regarding the commitments of each party.”

Hamas says it will study Trump's peace plan before responding

WICHITA - Trinity evened the score just before halftime, then scored the winning goal in the final minute of the game en route to a 2-1 home victory over Hays High boys’ soccer on Monday.

Hays High’s lone goal against its non-conference opponent came from junior Camden Luck.

It was the third win in a row for Trinity, the defending state champs in Class 4-1A, after starting this season with a tie and five straight losses.

Hays High will return to Western Athletic Conference action Thursday in a home match with WAC power Liberal (8-1 overall, 2-1 WAC).

Starting time for the match with the Redskins, ranked seventh in the state in Class 6A, is 5 p.m.for the junior varsity game, followed by the varsity.

Hays High (4-4 overall, 2-2 conference) will be at home again on Saturday with a 1 p.m. non-conference matchup with Hesston.

Hays Post SportsWICHITA - Trinity evened the score just before halftime, then scored the winning goal in the final minute of the game en route to a 2-1 home victory over Hays High boys’ soccer on Monday.Hays High’s lone goal against its non-conference opponent came from junior Camden Luck.It was the third win in a row for Trinity, the defending state champs in Class 4-1A, after starting this season with a tie and five straight losses.Hays High will return to Western Athletic Conference action Thursday in a home match with WAC power Liberal (8-1 overall, 2-1 WAC).Starting time for the match with the Redskins, ranked seventh in the state in Class 6A, is 5 p.m.for the junior varsity game, followed by the varsity.Hays High (4-4 overall, 2-2 conference) will be at home again on Saturday with a 1 p.m. non-conference matchup with Hesston.

⚽ Indian soccer loses close road match

BARTON COUNTY - The TMP-Marian girls' golf team shot an even 200 and won the nine-hole Hoisington Invitational Monday by five shots over Pratt at the Lake Barton Golf Course.

Brynn Schoepf was the top medalists with a 4-over-par 40, four shots ahead of Larned's Ariana Reynolds. Emma Wasinger shot a 50 and placed sixth for TMP.

Team Results Place Team Score 1. TMP-Marian - 200 2. Pratt - 205 3. Larned - 208 4. Hays JV - 246 5. Hoisington - 252 6. Plainville - 267

Top-10 Individuals #	Player	School	Total	To Par 1 Brynn Schoepf	TMP	40	+4 2 Ariana Meyer	LND	44	+8 3 Taeten Reynolds	LND	48	+12 4	Lexi Simmons	PRT	48	+12 5	Hayden Riffey	PRT	49	+13 6	Emma Wasinger	TMP	50	+14 7	Ava Simmons	PRT	51	+15 8	Avery Grebowiec	PL	51	+15 9	Aubree Nikkel	NICK	53	+17 10	Khloe Smith	LND	54	+18

Hays Post SportsBARTON COUNTY - The TMP-Marian girls' golf team shot an even 200 and won the nine-hole Hoisington Invitational Monday by five shots over Pratt at the Lake Barton Golf Course.Brynn Schoepf was the top medalists with a 4-over-par 40, four shots ahead of Larned's Ariana Reynolds. Emma Wasinger shot a 50 and placed sixth for TMP.Team Results Place Team Score 1. TMP-Marian - 200 2. Pratt - 205 3. Larned - 208 4. Hays JV - 246 5. Hoisington - 252 6. Plainville - 267Top-10 Individuals #	Player	School	Total	To Par 1 Brynn Schoepf	TMP	40	+4 2 Ariana Meyer	LND	44	+8 3 Taeten Reynolds	LND	48	+12 4	Lexi Simmons	PRT	48	+12 5	Hayden Riffey	PRT	49	+13 6	Emma Wasinger	TMP	50	+14 7	Ava Simmons	PRT	51	+15 8	Avery Grebowiec	PL	51	+15 9	Aubree Nikkel	NICK	53	+17 10	Khloe Smith	LND	54	+18

⛳ Monarchs, Schoepf win Hoisington Invitational

LIBERAL - The Hays High girls' golf team finished second at the Liberal Invitational at the&nbsp;Willow Tree Golf Course. 

The Indians fired a 370, 33 shots behind first place Garden City. Kinley Pfannenstiel shot a 10-over-par 82 and placed second, five shots behind Garden City's Brooke Savolt. Ava Erbert finished sixth with a 91 and Brooklyn Koerner was eighth with a 96.

Varsity Team Finish Place: School: Score: 1. Garden City 337 2. Hays High 370 3. Dodge City 401 4. Liberal 458 5. Great Bend 470

Top 10 Medalists Place: Name: School: Score: 1. Brooke Savolt Garden City 77 2. Kinley Pfannenstiel Hays 82 3. Ailynn Anderson Garden City 83 4. Breckyn Lucas Garden City 84 5. Breckyn Putnam Dodge City 88 6. Ava Erbert Hays 91 7. Megan Burr Garden City 93 8. Brooklynn Koerner Hays 96 9. Kale Culwell Dodge City 99 10. Alexis Cunningham Dodge City 101

Hays Post SportsLIBERAL - The Hays High girls' golf team finished second at the Liberal Invitational at the&nbsp;Willow Tree Golf Course. The Indians fired a 370, 33 shots behind first place Garden City. Kinley Pfannenstiel shot a 10-over-par 82 and placed second, five shots behind Garden City's Brooke Savolt. Ava Erbert finished sixth with a 91 and Brooklyn Koerner was eighth with a 96.Varsity Team Finish Place: School: Score: 1. Garden City 337 2. Hays High 370 3. Dodge City 401 4. Liberal 458 5. Great Bend 470 Top 10 Medalists Place: Name: School: Score: 1. Brooke Savolt Garden City 77 2. Kinley Pfannenstiel Hays 82 3. Ailynn Anderson Garden City 83 4. Breckyn Lucas Garden City 84 5. Breckyn Putnam Dodge City 88 6. Ava Erbert Hays 91 7. Megan Burr Garden City 93 8. Brooklynn Koerner Hays 96 9. Kale Culwell Dodge City 99 10. Alexis Cunningham Dodge City 101

⛳ Hays High girls' second in Liberal

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A driver charged in a crash that killed two Kansas women was due back in court on Monday. The hearing was continued, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Clowie Ann McLaughlin, 80, Augusta, was to appear in Judge Roger Woods courtroom. She&nbsp;is charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence, severity level 4 person felonies, in the deaths of 42-year-old LaShea Bell and her daughter, 25-year-old A’Niah Bell.

The crash happened around 9:35 p.m.&nbsp; August 30, at the intersection of Central and Webb Road in Wichita

. According to Wichita police, McLaughlin’s black Chevrolet truck collided with a white BMW carrying the Bells and a gray Jeep driven by a 41-year-old man. LaShea Bell was pronounced dead at the scene, while A’Niah Bell later died at a local hospital. The Jeep driver was treated at the scene and released.

Police said speed and alcohol are believed to have been factors in the collision. McLaughlin was taken to a hospital for treatment of her own injuries and was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail after being medically cleared. She bonded out of jail the following day after posting a $100,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757541241700.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A driver charged in a crash that killed two Kansas women was due back in court on Monday. The hearing was continued, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756722147795.png" alt="-Clowie Ann McLaughlin -photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>-Clowie Ann McLaughlin -photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Clowie Ann McLaughlin, 80, Augusta, was to appear in Judge Roger Woods courtroom. She&nbsp;is charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence, severity level 4 person felonies, in the deaths of 42-year-old LaShea Bell and her daughter, 25-year-old A’Niah Bell.The crash happened around 9:35 p.m.&nbsp; August 30, at the intersection of Central and Webb Road in Wichita. According to Wichita police, McLaughlin’s black Chevrolet truck collided with a white BMW carrying the Bells and a gray Jeep driven by a 41-year-old man. LaShea Bell was pronounced dead at the scene, while A’Niah Bell later died at a local hospital. The Jeep driver was treated at the scene and released.Police said speed and alcohol are believed to have been factors in the collision. McLaughlin was taken to a hospital for treatment of her own injuries and was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail after being medically cleared. She bonded out of jail the following day after posting a $100,000 bond.

Hearing postponed for driver in crash that killed 2 Kan. women 

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Fort Hays State University released a statement following the posting of comments by an assistant professor on Facebook.

Scott Cason, FHSU’s chief communications officer, said in a <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2025/09/fort-hays-state-university-statement-regarding-recent-social-media-post-about-race-and-violence#gsc.tab=0">press release</a>&nbsp;the university is aware of content on the X account Libs of TikTok linking a faculty member to social media posts about Charlie Kirk.

Cason commended the FHSU College Republicans, Young Democrats and American Democracy Project for their efforts to engage with the campus in meaningful dialogue.

On Sept. 10, the day Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a debate at Utah Valley University, Nuchelle Chance of the psychology department posted the following:

The X account Libs of TikTok shared the screenshot Sunday, tagging the FHSU X page and asking for comment. The post said Chance called Kirk’s killing “karma” and described white American men as “dangerous animals.”

The post also featured the following screenshot from Chance’s personal Facebook account, which is no longer publicly accessible.

Before making her profile private, Chance responded to the Libs of TikTok posts with a post that read, “Cry me a river.”

The post from Libs of TikTok, which has more than 4.4 million followers on X, also directed users to unrelated FHSU posts, where they left comments about Chance and her remarks on social media.

Chance's work email and phone number were also included in the post. Hays Post reached out to Chance for comment, but she declined to comment until "this all blows over."

Libs of TikTok is a right-wing social media account that curates and reposts videos of LGBTQ+ individuals, educators and health care providers and is designed to provoke outrage among conservative followers.

On Sept. 16, the FHSU American Democracy Project, Student Government Association, College Republicans and Young Democrats hosted a student discussion on political violence in America, which Hays Post was not permitted to attend.

The American Democracy Project also hosted an event to discuss the Constitution and the ideological motivations and influences of its framing, the same week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757536828691.jpeg" alt="Charlie Kirk" />
 <figcaption>Charlie Kirk</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostFort Hays State University released a statement following the posting of comments by an assistant professor on Facebook.Scott Cason, FHSU’s chief communications officer, said in a <a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/news/2025/09/fort-hays-state-university-statement-regarding-recent-social-media-post-about-race-and-violence#gsc.tab=0">press release</a>&nbsp;the university is aware of content on the X account Libs of TikTok linking a faculty member to social media posts about Charlie Kirk."Individuals who post commentaries to their personal social media accounts do not speak for the University, nor does their commentary reflect the views or values of this university," Cason said.Cason commended the FHSU College Republicans, Young Democrats and American Democracy Project for their efforts to engage with the campus in meaningful dialogue.Cason said FHSU is reviewing the situation as a confidential personnel matter and asks for patience as they address it.On Sept. 10, the day Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed during a debate at Utah Valley University, Nuchelle Chance of the psychology department posted the following:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759177549706.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759182814757.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>The X account Libs of TikTok shared the screenshot Sunday, tagging the FHSU X page and asking for comment. The post said Chance called Kirk’s killing “karma” and described white American men as “dangerous animals.”The post also featured the following screenshot from Chance’s personal Facebook account, which is no longer publicly accessible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759177637900.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>Before making her profile private, Chance responded to the Libs of TikTok posts with a post that read, “Cry me a river.”The post from Libs of TikTok, which has more than 4.4 million followers on X, also directed users to unrelated FHSU posts, where they left comments about Chance and her remarks on social media.Chance's work email and phone number were also included in the post. Hays Post reached out to Chance for comment, but she declined to comment until "this all blows over."Libs of TikTok is a right-wing social media account that curates and reposts videos of LGBTQ+ individuals, educators and health care providers and is designed to provoke outrage among conservative followers.On Sept. 16, the FHSU American Democracy Project, Student Government Association, College Republicans and Young Democrats hosted a student discussion on political violence in America, which Hays Post was not permitted to attend.The American Democracy Project also hosted an event to discuss the Constitution and the ideological motivations and influences of its framing, the same week.

FHSU assistant professor under review for posts about Charlie Kirk

"We need to stop accepting thoughts and prayers as a substitute for actual investment in saving lives. This officer died trying to protect someone. We owe it to his sacrifice to build a system that works." 

— Jennifer Hecker, director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.

If you are domestic violence victim, you can access help,&nbsp;call Options' 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411. For more on Options' services, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/00ebb752-0851-47cb-b62e-cf175f298b31">CLICK HERE.</a>

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Four police officers have been killed this year in the line of duty in Kansas. Two of those four, including Hays Sgt. Scott Heimann, were killed responding to domestic violence calls.

Early Sunday morning, a woman called 911 and said she had escaped a domestic violence situation.

The woman reported that while she attempted to flee, her significant other, identified as Zane Wickham, 34, of Hays, drove his truck into her vehicle. She ran to a nearby home to call for help, according to the KBI.

When Heimann and officers were trying to set up a perimeter near the backyard of Wickham’s residence in the 2200 block of Downing, a single shot was fired from inside the house, and the round struck&nbsp;Heimann, according to the KBI.&nbsp;

Despite life-saving efforts, the officer died from his injuries.

Tactical teams entered the house and found Wickham deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

In 2023, the Hays Police Department and Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services launched a program to try to intervene before domestic violence escalates to the point of severe injury or death.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0e23095e-92ee-4d2d-81df-6b263d4e263f">At that point, the last six murders in Hays were all connected to domestic violence.&nbsp;</a>

Officers were given a lethality survey to ask domestic violence victims, which was supposed to be accompanied by a call to an advocate at Options.

Jennifer Hecker, Options' executive director, said Options has struggled to fully implement the program because of a lack of funding.

Options has made three attempts for state funding and one attempt for federal funding to support a high-risk team coordinator. All four requests have been denied due to a lack of available funding, Hecker said.

Within the last month, Options reassigned its case manager to a position serving as the high-risk team coordinator.&nbsp;

"We made some internal changes to make that a priority despite the lack of funding for it," Hecker said.

She said this is the fourth domestic violence-related murder in Options' service area in a year.

"We are seeing domestic violence homicides rising sharply at a time when funding for advocacy organizations like ours is facing cuts," she said.

Hecker has also been a vocal advocate, calling for reform within our judicial system.

"Domestic violence is not considered a serious crime," she said. "It's not treated as systemic terrorism that domestic violence actually represents.

"Domestic violence isn't less deadly, because it's happening between a husband and wife or two people in a relationship," she said.

She said that with a well-functioning high-risk team, we can prevent these things from happening.

"We can reduce risk," she said. "If we had a full-operational high-risk team, we could intervene before officers walk into death traps," Hecker said.

Hecker, as well as Kati Blackburn of Jana's Campaign, noted that domestic violence does not only affect the two people in the relationship.

In the incident on Sunday, people were evacuated from their homes.

 Children who witness abuse can face long-term trauma. Families and friends lose loved ones. Coworkers, neighbors, and bystanders can become unintended victims, Blackburn said in a press release issued Monday.

According to national research, 13.9% of officer-involved shootings occur in response to domestic violence incidents (wcadv.org, 2020). This stark reality underscores the urgent need for prevention strategies and education at every level of the community, the release said.

“Our hearts are with all who have been impacted by the recent incidents here in our home community of Hays,” Blackburn added. “Incidents like this remind us why prevention education is necessary.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dd421f47-4d2f-4848-b265-72e711ada80a">SEE THE FULL JANA'S CAMPAIGN HERE.</a>

Jana's Campaign is an organization that promotes education and prevention of relationship violence. It often focuses on youth and young adult programs.

<h2>"We need to stop accepting thoughts and prayers as a substitute for actual investment in saving lives. This officer died trying to protect someone. We owe it to his sacrifice to build a system that works." </h2>— Jennifer Hecker, director of Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services.If you are domestic violence victim, you can access help,&nbsp;call Options' 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411. For more on Options' services, <a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/00ebb752-0851-47cb-b62e-cf175f298b31">CLICK HERE.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759175264871.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostFour police officers have been killed this year in the line of duty in Kansas. Two of those four, including Hays Sgt. Scott Heimann, were killed responding to domestic violence calls.Early Sunday morning, a woman called 911 and said she had escaped a domestic violence situation.The woman reported that while she attempted to flee, her significant other, identified as Zane Wickham, 34, of Hays, drove his truck into her vehicle. She ran to a nearby home to call for help, according to the KBI.When Heimann and officers were trying to set up a perimeter near the backyard of Wickham’s residence in the 2200 block of Downing, a single shot was fired from inside the house, and the round struck&nbsp;Heimann, according to the KBI.&nbsp;Despite life-saving efforts, the officer died from his injuries.Tactical teams entered the house and found Wickham deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.In 2023, the Hays Police Department and Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services launched a program to try to intervene before domestic violence escalates to the point of severe injury or death.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/0e23095e-92ee-4d2d-81df-6b263d4e263f">At that point, the last six murders in Hays were all connected to domestic violence.&nbsp;</a>Officers were given a lethality survey to ask domestic violence victims, which was supposed to be accompanied by a call to an advocate at Options.Jennifer Hecker, Options' executive director, said Options has struggled to fully implement the program because of a lack of funding.Options has made three attempts for state funding and one attempt for federal funding to support a high-risk team coordinator. All four requests have been denied due to a lack of available funding, Hecker said.Within the last month, Options reassigned its case manager to a position serving as the high-risk team coordinator.&nbsp;"We made some internal changes to make that a priority despite the lack of funding for it," Hecker said.She said this is the fourth domestic violence-related murder in Options' service area in a year."We are seeing domestic violence homicides rising sharply at a time when funding for advocacy organizations like ours is facing cuts," she said.Hecker has also been a vocal advocate, calling for reform within our judicial system."Domestic violence is not considered a serious crime," she said. "It's not treated as systemic terrorism that domestic violence actually represents."Domestic violence isn't less deadly, because it's happening between a husband and wife or two people in a relationship," she said.She said that with a well-functioning high-risk team, we can prevent these things from happening."We can reduce risk," she said. "If we had a full-operational high-risk team, we could intervene before officers walk into death traps," Hecker said.Hecker, as well as Kati Blackburn of Jana's Campaign, noted that domestic violence does not only affect the two people in the relationship.In the incident on Sunday, people were evacuated from their homes. Children who witness abuse can face long-term trauma. Families and friends lose loved ones. Coworkers, neighbors, and bystanders can become unintended victims, Blackburn said in a press release issued Monday.According to national research, 13.9% of officer-involved shootings occur in response to domestic violence incidents (wcadv.org, 2020). This stark reality underscores the urgent need for prevention strategies and education at every level of the community, the release said.“Our hearts are with all who have been impacted by the recent incidents here in our home community of Hays,” Blackburn added. “Incidents like this remind us why prevention education is necessary.”<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dd421f47-4d2f-4848-b265-72e711ada80a">SEE THE FULL JANA'S CAMPAIGN HERE.</a>Jana's Campaign is an organization that promotes education and prevention of relationship violence. It often focuses on youth and young adult programs.The program was founded by Christine and Curt Brungardt of Hays after a former boyfriend murdered their daughter.“We know the devastating impacts of domestic violence fatality as our organization was created as a result of our own family tragedy,” said Curt Brungardt, co-founder of Jana’s Campaign in the press release.“Every call for help represents not just a private dispute, but a potential life-or-death crisis that can ripple outward and harm innocent people.”Hecker also sent her condolences to the officer's family, first responders, Hays Police Department and the domestic violence victim.However, she said&nbsp;condolences are not enough."We need to stop accepting thoughts and prayers as a substitute for actual investment in saving lives. This officer died trying to protect someone. We owe it to his sacrifice to build a system that works," Hecker said. ..."Domestic violence is dangerous. When are we going to do something? What will it take?"She added, "If I could say one thing to the victim, it would be, 'This is not your fault."Hecker said Options services are available for anyone who has been affected by this tragedy.Wickham had a criminal history, according to court records.He was charged with a count of aggravated battery and three counts of battery in 2011. He pleaded no contest to all four charges, according to court records.In May 2012, he entered a diversion agreement.He also entered a diversion agreement for a felony as a juvenile, according to court records.In 2024, he was arrested on charges of DUI, disorderly conduct, interference with a law enforcement officer and other traffic violations. That case was on appeal as of Sept. 5, according to court records.