WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday that the U.S. military carried out another strike on a boat he said was carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing all four people aboard the vessel, as the Trump administration pursues its divisive campaign against drug cartels in the waters off South America.

Hegseth said in a social media post that intelligence determined the craft was “transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics.” He said the strike was conducted in international waters and no U.S. forces were harmed.

A video posted by Hegseth shows a boat exploding into flames and smoke.

The Trump administration has been conducting a nearly two-month campaign in the waters off of South America, while building up U.S. military forces in the region. This has fueled speculation that the moves are aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dhs-plan-capture-maduro-pilot-planes-7915d5a0819ceb518a8ca2b47da8b2e5" rel="nofollow">ousting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro</a>, whom the U.S. has accused of narcoterrorism.

The Trump administration has shown no evidence to support its claims about the boats that have been struck, their connection to drug cartels, or even the identity of the people killed in the strikes that began in early September.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday that the U.S. military carried out another strike on a boat he said was carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing all four people aboard the vessel, as the Trump administration pursues its divisive campaign against drug cartels in the waters off South America.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Earlier today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on yet another narco-trafficking vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) in the Eastern Pacific. This vessel, like all the others, was known by our… <a href="https://t.co/mBOLA5RYQe">pic.twitter.com/mBOLA5RYQe</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1983676996220588093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Hegseth said in a social media post that intelligence determined the craft was “transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics.” He said the strike was conducted in international waters and no U.S. forces were harmed.A video posted by Hegseth shows a boat exploding into flames and smoke.The Trump administration has been conducting a nearly two-month campaign in the waters off of South America, while building up U.S. military forces in the region. This has fueled speculation that the moves are aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dhs-plan-capture-maduro-pilot-planes-7915d5a0819ceb518a8ca2b47da8b2e5" rel="nofollow">ousting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro</a>, whom the U.S. has accused of narcoterrorism.The Trump administration has shown no evidence to support its claims about the boats that have been struck, their connection to drug cartels, or even the identity of the people killed in the strikes that began in early September.

🎥US military kills 4 in new strike on drug-running boat

INDIANAPOLIS – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer was referenced in the first set of NCAA Super Region Rankings, released on Wednesday. The Tigers (12-0-3) are one of two unbeaten teams listed in the Super Region 3 rankings, joining Cedarville (10-0-5). Ten teams from the Super Region will be selected to the NCAA Tournament, which begins in a couple of weeks following conference tournaments.

Four of the ten teams selected to the Super Region 3 field of the NCAA Tournament will be automatic selections, which includes conference tournament champions from the GAC, GLVC, GMAC, and GLIAC conferences. Fort Hays State is already a lock to play in the GAC Tournament, which will be held Thursday and Saturday (Nov. 13 and 15) by the highest seed in the four-team tournament field.

According to the Super Region 3 PDF found at the bottom of the region rankings on NCAA.com, Fort Hays State has the top RPI, strength of schedule, performance indicator rating, and best in-region and overall record against Division II competition.

Joining Fort Hays State from the Great American Conference in the initial release of Super Region rankings is Rogers State and Northeastern State. Teams are not assigned a ranking in the first release of the rankings and teams under consideration are listed in alphabetical order.

Two more editions of the Super Region rankings will be released yet in the weeks ahead before selections for the national tournament will be made following conference tournaments.

Below are the teams under consideration for the rankings in Super Region 3 on October 29, 2025.

School	In-Region Record	DII Record Cedarville	10-0-5	10-0-5 Fort Hays State	11-0-3	12-0-3 Lincoln (MO)	9-0-4	9-0-4 Maryville (MO)	7-6-2	7-6-2 McKendree	7-4-4	7-4-4 Missouri S&amp;T	9-2-2	9-3-3 Northeastern St.	8-5-2	8-5-2 Rockhurst	10-3-2	10-3-2 Rogers St.	9-2-4	9-2-4 Saginaw Valley	8-2-3	8-2-4 Tiffin	9-2-3	9-2-3 UIndy	8-4-3	9-4-3

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761830244262.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsINDIANAPOLIS – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer was referenced in the first set of NCAA Super Region Rankings, released on Wednesday. The Tigers (12-0-3) are one of two unbeaten teams listed in the Super Region 3 rankings, joining Cedarville (10-0-5). Ten teams from the Super Region will be selected to the NCAA Tournament, which begins in a couple of weeks following conference tournaments.Four of the ten teams selected to the Super Region 3 field of the NCAA Tournament will be automatic selections, which includes conference tournament champions from the GAC, GLVC, GMAC, and GLIAC conferences. Fort Hays State is already a lock to play in the GAC Tournament, which will be held Thursday and Saturday (Nov. 13 and 15) by the highest seed in the four-team tournament field.According to the Super Region 3 PDF found at the bottom of the region rankings on NCAA.com, Fort Hays State has the top RPI, strength of schedule, performance indicator rating, and best in-region and overall record against Division II competition.Joining Fort Hays State from the Great American Conference in the initial release of Super Region rankings is Rogers State and Northeastern State. Teams are not assigned a ranking in the first release of the rankings and teams under consideration are listed in alphabetical order.Two more editions of the Super Region rankings will be released yet in the weeks ahead before selections for the national tournament will be made following conference tournaments.Below are the teams under consideration for the rankings in Super Region 3 on October 29, 2025.School	In-Region Record	DII Record Cedarville	10-0-5	10-0-5 Fort Hays State	11-0-3	12-0-3 Lincoln (MO)	9-0-4	9-0-4 Maryville (MO)	7-6-2	7-6-2 McKendree	7-4-4	7-4-4 Missouri S&amp;T	9-2-2	9-3-3 Northeastern St.	8-5-2	8-5-2 Rockhurst	10-3-2	10-3-2 Rogers St.	9-2-4	9-2-4 Saginaw Valley	8-2-3	8-2-4 Tiffin	9-2-3	9-2-3 UIndy	8-4-3	9-4-3

⚽ FHSU men under consideration in first NCAA Super Region rankings

GYEONGJU, South Korea (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump" rel="nofollow">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Wednesday that “it’s too bad” he’s not allowed to run for a third term, conceding the constitutional reality even as he expressed interest in continuing to serve.

“If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One enroute from Japan to South Korea. “I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad.”

The president’s comments, which continue his on-again, off-again musings about a third term, came a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/" rel="nofollow">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;said it would be impossible for Trump to stay in the White House.

“I don’t see the path for that,” he told reporters at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday.

Johnson, the Republican leader who has built his career by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/" rel="nofollow">drawing closer to Trump</a>, said he discussed the issue with the president, and he thinks Trump understands the situation.

“He and I have talked about the constrictions of the Constitution,” he said.

GYEONGJU, South Korea (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump" rel="nofollow">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;said Wednesday that “it’s too bad” he’s not allowed to run for a third term, conceding the constitutional reality even as he expressed interest in continuing to serve.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Trump on a third term: &quot;I would love to do it. I have the best numbers ever. Am I not ruling it out? You&#39;ll have to tell me.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/8tsuvIOeVf">pic.twitter.com/8tsuvIOeVf</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1982783779597959567?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“If you read it, it’s pretty clear,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One enroute from Japan to South Korea. “I’m not allowed to run. It’s too bad.”The president’s comments, which continue his on-again, off-again musings about a third term, came a day after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/" rel="nofollow">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;said it would be impossible for Trump to stay in the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpeakerJohnson</a> on Trump running for a third term: &quot;I think the president knows - and he and I have talked about - the constrictions of the Constitution...I don&#39;t see a way to amend the Constitution, because it takes about 10 years to do that...I don&#39;t see the path for that.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/EvnliWcJbZ">pic.twitter.com/EvnliWcJbZ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983193264422351309?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“I don’t see the path for that,” he told reporters at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday.Johnson, the Republican leader who has built his career by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/" rel="nofollow">drawing closer to Trump</a>, said he discussed the issue with the president, and he thinks Trump understands the situation.“He and I have talked about the constrictions of the Constitution,” he said.

🎥What President Trump now says about running for a third term

Welcome to Cash Grab! It is your chance to win $250 on Friday's in October!

Keywords are given out at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. You will have 20 minutes to enter the correct keyword that you heard on our radio stations. We will then draw out one winner on Friday morning!

Cash Grab is presented by Robert Brogden GMC in downtown Hays, Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hahn and Mitch Keeley, Tri-Central Office Supply, and Vanderbilt’s of Hays.

Welcome to Cash Grab! It is your chance to win $250 on Friday's in October!Keywords are given out at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. You will have 20 minutes to enter the correct keyword that you heard on our radio stations. We will then draw out one winner on Friday morning!Thanks for playing and good luck!!Cash Grab is presented by Robert Brogden GMC in downtown Hays, Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hahn and Mitch Keeley, Tri-Central Office Supply, and Vanderbilt’s of Hays.<div><script src="https://xp.audience.io/widget.js"></script>
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Donald Max Stewart died on October 24, 2025, in Lawrence, Kansas. He was born to Charlcie Melinda (Fields) Stewart and Milo Franklin Stewart on March 15, 1934, in Talmage, Kansas. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1952, where he played football and excelled in basketball. He attended the University of Kansas for two years, transferring to Fort Hays State University to accept a basketball scholarship. He received his BS degree from Fort Hays in January 1958.

Don and Royalynn Louise Law were married in August 1958 at the First United Methodist Church in Hays, Kansas. They departed to Chicago where Don enrolled in graduate school at Northwestern University, and Royalynn taught elementary school in Park Ridge. In 1960 Don graduated from Northwestern with an MS degree in hospital administration. Don’s graduate work required residency in a hospital, and he chose Methodist Hospital of Dallas, where he and Royalynn lived for three years. While in Dallas their son Craig Edward was born. In 1963 the family moved to Hays, where at age 29 Don became CEO of Hadley Regional Medical Center. He served at Hadley for 20 years. In 1964 their son Brian Conrad was born.

While at Hadley, Don received the Kansas Outstanding Young Man award in 1968, and he received an award from the Kansas Federation of Business and Professional Women for his efforts to advance women in the workplace.

In 1983 Don became President and Chief Operating Officer of Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Don thrived on managing hospitals but had a vision of an independent philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the health of all Kansans. This led him to become instrumental in the sale of Wesley Medical Center, the proceeds of which formed the Kansas Health Foundation and the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. Since its inception, the Kansas Health Foundation has made grants to health organizations in Kansas totaling more than $500 million to improve the health of all Kansans. Grants from the foundation will continue in perpetuity. Don continued his work at Wesley for several years, but his desire to address other health issues took him to the Kansas Health Foundation, where he became Senior Advisor. While researching a project, Don found that there was little information specific to Kansas, so the Kansas Health Institute was formed. The Institute is based in Topeka and is today considered one of the premier state-based health research and policy institutes in the country. Later, the Kansas Health Foundation formed the Kansas Leadership Center, which provides leadership programs throughout the state and beyond.

Don developed and oversaw a program to assist rural hospitals and realized those areas had a critical need for primary care professionals. At one time, the state had two programs that trained nurse practitioners, but one had closed and the other was faltering. The Foundation made a $1 million-plus grant to the University of Kansas Medical Center, Wichita State University, and Fort Hays State University to establish nurse practitioner programs, and today there are many such programs in Kansas that are helping to address the state’s primary medical care needs.

Don was an established leader in Kansas. He served as chair of the Kansas Blue Cross board and the Kansas Hospital Association. In 1994, he received the Charles S. Billings award from the Kansas Hospital Association, the association’s highest honor. He served on the boards of the American Protestant Hospital Association, the Midwest Health Congress, and Health Frontiers, and he was a delegate to the American Hospital Association. Don was an adjunct professor at the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, and the University of Minnesota.

Outside of healthcare, Don served on many community and nonprofit boards, as well as on the board of the First National Bank of Hays. He was appointed by George H.W. Bush to the Federal Home Loan Bank board. He was on the executive board of the Eisenhower Foundation. Don’s most treasured award came when the Kansas Health Foundation established the Donald M. Stewart Scholarship at the University of Kansas. This scholarship is for students from Abilene and other Dickinson County communities to attend the university.

Don was a devoted husband and father. He, Royalynn and their sons enjoyed sailing, golf, and skiing together. He loved reading, particularly about World War II and Winston Churchill. Don and Royalynn spent many of their retired years in Chipita Park, Colorado and Rio Verde, Arizona. In his last years they lived in Lawrence, where they loved being back in Kansas and 'on the hill.'

Don spent his last year at Bridge Haven Memory Care. He lived in Eltern’s House, and he received excellent and loving care from the wonderful Bridge Haven staff.

Don is survived by his loving wife Royalynn of Lawrence, Kansas, his son Brian (Christie) of Bluffton, South Carolina, his son Craig of Denver, Colorado, his daughter-in-law Maren Stewart of Denver, and his grandchildren Sam, Jack, and Emma. His boys and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents Charlcie and Milo Stewart and his sister LaVonna Helvey.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Hays, or the Donald and Royalynn Stewart Scholarship at the Fort Hays State University Foundation, in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, Lawrence, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761767506764.jpeg" alt="Donald Max Stewart&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donald Max Stewart&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Donald Max Stewart died on October 24, 2025, in Lawrence, Kansas. He was born to Charlcie Melinda (Fields) Stewart and Milo Franklin Stewart on March 15, 1934, in Talmage, Kansas. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1952, where he played football and excelled in basketball. He attended the University of Kansas for two years, transferring to Fort Hays State University to accept a basketball scholarship. He received his BS degree from Fort Hays in January 1958.Don and Royalynn Louise Law were married in August 1958 at the First United Methodist Church in Hays, Kansas. They departed to Chicago where Don enrolled in graduate school at Northwestern University, and Royalynn taught elementary school in Park Ridge. In 1960 Don graduated from Northwestern with an MS degree in hospital administration. Don’s graduate work required residency in a hospital, and he chose Methodist Hospital of Dallas, where he and Royalynn lived for three years. While in Dallas their son Craig Edward was born. In 1963 the family moved to Hays, where at age 29 Don became CEO of Hadley Regional Medical Center. He served at Hadley for 20 years. In 1964 their son Brian Conrad was born.While at Hadley, Don received the Kansas Outstanding Young Man award in 1968, and he received an award from the Kansas Federation of Business and Professional Women for his efforts to advance women in the workplace.In 1983 Don became President and Chief Operating Officer of Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Don thrived on managing hospitals but had a vision of an independent philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the health of all Kansans. This led him to become instrumental in the sale of Wesley Medical Center, the proceeds of which formed the Kansas Health Foundation and the United Methodist Health Ministry Fund. Since its inception, the Kansas Health Foundation has made grants to health organizations in Kansas totaling more than $500 million to improve the health of all Kansans. Grants from the foundation will continue in perpetuity. Don continued his work at Wesley for several years, but his desire to address other health issues took him to the Kansas Health Foundation, where he became Senior Advisor. While researching a project, Don found that there was little information specific to Kansas, so the Kansas Health Institute was formed. The Institute is based in Topeka and is today considered one of the premier state-based health research and policy institutes in the country. Later, the Kansas Health Foundation formed the Kansas Leadership Center, which provides leadership programs throughout the state and beyond.Don developed and oversaw a program to assist rural hospitals and realized those areas had a critical need for primary care professionals. At one time, the state had two programs that trained nurse practitioners, but one had closed and the other was faltering. The Foundation made a $1 million-plus grant to the University of Kansas Medical Center, Wichita State University, and Fort Hays State University to establish nurse practitioner programs, and today there are many such programs in Kansas that are helping to address the state’s primary medical care needs.Don was an established leader in Kansas. He served as chair of the Kansas Blue Cross board and the Kansas Hospital Association. In 1994, he received the Charles S. Billings award from the Kansas Hospital Association, the association’s highest honor. He served on the boards of the American Protestant Hospital Association, the Midwest Health Congress, and Health Frontiers, and he was a delegate to the American Hospital Association. Don was an adjunct professor at the University of Kansas, Wichita State University, and the University of Minnesota.Outside of healthcare, Don served on many community and nonprofit boards, as well as on the board of the First National Bank of Hays. He was appointed by George H.W. Bush to the Federal Home Loan Bank board. He was on the executive board of the Eisenhower Foundation. Don’s most treasured award came when the Kansas Health Foundation established the Donald M. Stewart Scholarship at the University of Kansas. This scholarship is for students from Abilene and other Dickinson County communities to attend the university.Don was a devoted husband and father. He, Royalynn and their sons enjoyed sailing, golf, and skiing together. He loved reading, particularly about World War II and Winston Churchill. Don and Royalynn spent many of their retired years in Chipita Park, Colorado and Rio Verde, Arizona. In his last years they lived in Lawrence, where they loved being back in Kansas and 'on the hill.'Don spent his last year at Bridge Haven Memory Care. He lived in Eltern’s House, and he received excellent and loving care from the wonderful Bridge Haven staff.Don is survived by his loving wife Royalynn of Lawrence, Kansas, his son Brian (Christie) of Bluffton, South Carolina, his son Craig of Denver, Colorado, his daughter-in-law Maren Stewart of Denver, and his grandchildren Sam, Jack, and Emma. His boys and his grandchildren were his pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents Charlcie and Milo Stewart and his sister LaVonna Helvey.Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Hays, or the Donald and Royalynn Stewart Scholarship at the Fort Hays State University Foundation, in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, Lawrence, Kansas.

Donald Max Stewart

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate Wednesday for a second time this year as it seeks to shore up economic growth and hiring even as inflation stays elevated.

“Job gains have slowed this year, and the unemployment rate has edged up but remained low through August,” the Fed said in a statement issued Wednesday. “More recent indicators are consistent with these developments." The government hasn't issued unemployment data after August because of the shutdown. The Fed is watching private-sector figures instead.

Wednesday's decision brings the Fed's key rate down to about 3.9%, from about 4.1%. The central bank had cranked its rate to roughly 5.3% in 2023 and 2024 to combat the biggest inflation spike in four decades. Lower rates could, over time, reduce borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards, as well as for business loans.

The move comes amid a fraught time for the central bank, with hiring sluggish and yet inflation stuck above the Fed’s 2% target. Compounding its challenges, the central bank is navigating without the economic signposts it typically relies on from the government, including monthly reports on jobs, inflation and consumer spending, which have been suspended because of the government shutdown. The Fed has signaled it may reduce its key rate again in December but the data drought raises the uncertainty around its next moves.

The Fed typically raises its short term rate to combat inflation, while it cuts rates to encourage borrowing and spending and shore up hiring. Right now its two goals are in conflict, so it is reducing borrowing costs to support the job market, while still keeping rates high enough to avoid stimulating the economy so much that it worsens inflation.

Speaking to reporters after the Fed's announced its rate decision, Fed chair Jerome Powell said there were “strongly differing views about how to proceed in December” at the policy meeting and a further reduction in rates is not “a foregone conclusion.”

On Wednesday, the Fed also said it would stop reducing the size of its massive securities holdings, which it accumulated during the pandemic and after the 2008-2009 Great Recession. The change, to take effect Dec. 1, could over time slightly reduce longer-term interest rates on things like mortgages but won't have much impact on consumer borrowing costs.

The Fed purchased nearly $5 trillion of Treasury securities and mortgage-backed bonds from 2020 to 2022 to stabilize financial markets during the pandemic and keep longer-term interest rates low. The bond-buying lifted its securities holdings to $9 trillion.

In the past three years, however, the Fed has reduced its holdings to about $6.6 trillion. To shrink its holdings, the Fed lets securities mature without replacing them, reducing bank reserves. In recent months, however, the reductions appeared to disrupt money markets, threatening to push up shorter-term interest rates.

Two of the 12 officials who vote on the Fed’s rate decisions dissented, but in different directions. Fed governor Stephen Miran dissented for the second straight meeting in favor of a half-point cut. Miran was appointed by President Donald Trump just before the central bank’s last meeting in September.

Jeffrey Schmid, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, voted against the move because he preferred no change to the Fed’s rate. Schmid has previously expressed concern that inflation remains too high.

Trump has repeatedly attacked Powell for not reducing borrowing costs more quickly. In South Korea early Wednesday he repeated his criticisms of the Fed chair.

“He’s out of there in another couple of months,” Trump said. Powell’s term ends in May. On Monday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-independence-inflation-5c8cfa5816845d4f005db51c91cdab0d">confirmed</a>&nbsp;the administration is considering five people to replace Powell, and will decide by the end of this year.

Meanwhile, the government shutdown has interrupted economic data. September's jobs report, scheduled to be released three weeks ago, is still postponed. This month's hiring figures, to be released Nov. 7, will likely be delayed and may be less comprehensive when they are finally released. And the White House said last week that October's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-shutdown-no-report-70a0e2773445ded8a7239c4899fc410c">inflation report</a>&nbsp;may never be issued at all.

The data drought raises risks for the Fed because it is widely expected to keep cutting rates in an effort to shore up growth and hiring. Yet should job gains pick up soon, the Fed may not detect the change. And if hiring rebounds after weak job gains during the summer, further rate cuts may not be justified.

Before the government shutdown cut off the flow of data Oct. 1, monthly hiring gains had weakened to an average of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jobs-economy-unemployment-trump-firing-f686eab61f7d6b702ca10b12b0250498">just 29,000 a month</a>&nbsp;for the previous three months, according to the Labor Department's data. The unemployment rate ticked up to a still-low 4.3% in August from 4.2% in July.

More recently, several large corporations have announced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/layoffs-2025-amazon-ups-job-cuts-8413af9ac5b434b092ed76d6fa6cd196">sweeping layoffs</a>, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ups-amazon-layoffs-turnaround-85afc1c459883f41a2283c8394ce1eaf">UPS</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-layoff-ai-14000-artificial-intelligence-cb64af47ebb794541fbdfa8fd264932c">Amazon</a>, and Target, which threatens to boost the unemployment rate if it continues.

Meanwhile, last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-inflation-trump-prices-economy-wall-street-fed-consumers-280a2fd30de3bb44bd87cd0248082322">inflation report</a>&nbsp;— released more than a week late because of the shutdown — showed that inflation remains elevated but isn’t accelerating and may not need higher interest rates to tame it.

The government's first report on the economy's growth in the July-September quarter was scheduled to be published on Thursday, but will be delayed, as will Friday's report on consumer spending that also includes the Fed's preferred inflation measure.

Fed officials say they are monitoring a range of other data, including some issued by the private sector, and don't feel handicapped by the lack of government reports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761764214354.png" alt="Fed Chairman Jerome Powell during the announcement on Wednesday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Fed Chairman Jerome Powell during the announcement on Wednesday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate Wednesday for a second time this year as it seeks to shore up economic growth and hiring even as inflation stays elevated.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fed Chair Powell: &quot;In support of our goals and in light of the balance of risks to employment and inflation, today the Federal Open Market Committee decided to lower our policy interest rate by a quarter percentage point.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FOMC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FOMC</a> <a href="https://t.co/XNoWKSZcGJ">pic.twitter.com/XNoWKSZcGJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983610921101467853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Job gains have slowed this year, and the unemployment rate has edged up but remained low through August,” the Fed said in a statement issued Wednesday. “More recent indicators are consistent with these developments." The government hasn't issued unemployment data after August because of the shutdown. The Fed is watching private-sector figures instead.Wednesday's decision brings the Fed's key rate down to about 3.9%, from about 4.1%. The central bank had cranked its rate to roughly 5.3% in 2023 and 2024 to combat the biggest inflation spike in four decades. Lower rates could, over time, reduce borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards, as well as for business loans.The move comes amid a fraught time for the central bank, with hiring sluggish and yet inflation stuck above the Fed’s 2% target. Compounding its challenges, the central bank is navigating without the economic signposts it typically relies on from the government, including monthly reports on jobs, inflation and consumer spending, which have been suspended because of the government shutdown. The Fed has signaled it may reduce its key rate again in December but the data drought raises the uncertainty around its next moves.The Fed typically raises its short term rate to combat inflation, while it cuts rates to encourage borrowing and spending and shore up hiring. Right now its two goals are in conflict, so it is reducing borrowing costs to support the job market, while still keeping rates high enough to avoid stimulating the economy so much that it worsens inflation.Speaking to reporters after the Fed's announced its rate decision, Fed chair Jerome Powell said there were “strongly differing views about how to proceed in December” at the policy meeting and a further reduction in rates is not “a foregone conclusion.”On Wednesday, the Fed also said it would stop reducing the size of its massive securities holdings, which it accumulated during the pandemic and after the 2008-2009 Great Recession. The change, to take effect Dec. 1, could over time slightly reduce longer-term interest rates on things like mortgages but won't have much impact on consumer borrowing costs.The Fed purchased nearly $5 trillion of Treasury securities and mortgage-backed bonds from 2020 to 2022 to stabilize financial markets during the pandemic and keep longer-term interest rates low. The bond-buying lifted its securities holdings to $9 trillion.In the past three years, however, the Fed has reduced its holdings to about $6.6 trillion. To shrink its holdings, the Fed lets securities mature without replacing them, reducing bank reserves. In recent months, however, the reductions appeared to disrupt money markets, threatening to push up shorter-term interest rates.Two of the 12 officials who vote on the Fed’s rate decisions dissented, but in different directions. Fed governor Stephen Miran dissented for the second straight meeting in favor of a half-point cut. Miran was appointed by President Donald Trump just before the central bank’s last meeting in September.Jeffrey Schmid, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, voted against the move because he preferred no change to the Fed’s rate. Schmid has previously expressed concern that inflation remains too high.Trump has repeatedly attacked Powell for not reducing borrowing costs more quickly. In South Korea early Wednesday he repeated his criticisms of the Fed chair.“He’s out of there in another couple of months,” Trump said. Powell’s term ends in May. On Monday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-independence-inflation-5c8cfa5816845d4f005db51c91cdab0d">confirmed</a>&nbsp;the administration is considering five people to replace Powell, and will decide by the end of this year.Meanwhile, the government shutdown has interrupted economic data. September's jobs report, scheduled to be released three weeks ago, is still postponed. This month's hiring figures, to be released Nov. 7, will likely be delayed and may be less comprehensive when they are finally released. And the White House said last week that October's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-shutdown-no-report-70a0e2773445ded8a7239c4899fc410c">inflation report</a>&nbsp;may never be issued at all.The data drought raises risks for the Fed because it is widely expected to keep cutting rates in an effort to shore up growth and hiring. Yet should job gains pick up soon, the Fed may not detect the change. And if hiring rebounds after weak job gains during the summer, further rate cuts may not be justified.Before the government shutdown cut off the flow of data Oct. 1, monthly hiring gains had weakened to an average of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jobs-economy-unemployment-trump-firing-f686eab61f7d6b702ca10b12b0250498">just 29,000 a month</a>&nbsp;for the previous three months, according to the Labor Department's data. The unemployment rate ticked up to a still-low 4.3% in August from 4.2% in July.More recently, several large corporations have announced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/layoffs-2025-amazon-ups-job-cuts-8413af9ac5b434b092ed76d6fa6cd196">sweeping layoffs</a>, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ups-amazon-layoffs-turnaround-85afc1c459883f41a2283c8394ce1eaf">UPS</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-layoff-ai-14000-artificial-intelligence-cb64af47ebb794541fbdfa8fd264932c">Amazon</a>, and Target, which threatens to boost the unemployment rate if it continues.Meanwhile, last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-inflation-trump-prices-economy-wall-street-fed-consumers-280a2fd30de3bb44bd87cd0248082322">inflation report</a>&nbsp;— released more than a week late because of the shutdown — showed that inflation remains elevated but isn’t accelerating and may not need higher interest rates to tame it.The government's first report on the economy's growth in the July-September quarter was scheduled to be published on Thursday, but will be delayed, as will Friday's report on consumer spending that also includes the Fed's preferred inflation measure.Fed officials say they are monitoring a range of other data, including some issued by the private sector, and don't feel handicapped by the lack of government reports.

🎥Good news for borrowers despite federal gov't shutdown 

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansans who receive food assistance or are furloughed from federal jobs are scrambling to pay bills and feed their families as the federal government shutdown drags on.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday was the deadline for the federal government to reopen so that November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments could go out to beneficiaries. It takes 72 hours for the payments to process, according to the Kansas Department for Children and Families.

More than 93,000 Kansas households — nearly 188,000 Kansans — use SNAP benefits to put food on their tables, DCF said in a press release. The bulk of those using SNAP are children.

As politicians on both sides exchange barbs on social media and in news releases about who is at fault for shutting down the government, Kansans like Daniel Scharpenburg, of Overland Park, are carefully tracking their bank account balances. He’s worried about a teenage son with a big appetite and the possibility of empty kitchen cabinets.

Scharpenburg, 45, is furloughed from the Internal Revenue Service office in Kansas City, Missouri. He worked the first five days of the shutdown, leaving Oct. 8 and receiving a paycheck in mid-October for those days of work.&nbsp;

“I have to be very careful with my bills, because I have now missed a paycheck,” he said. “I’m having to rely on food banks and things like that to make sure I have food. If I start thinking about my car payment and my phone bill and my rent, I’m gonna go crazy. I really do have to focus on the next bill that’s due and hope for the best.”

Scharpenburg is applying for jobs in the Kansas City area but isn’t having much luck. He said all furloughed workers in the area are competing for jobs.

The IRS location employs about 6,000 people, and reports from the federal government indicate about half of IRS workers have been furloughed, he said. Housing and Urban Development also has a Kansas City office, and those employees are affected by the shutdown too, Scharpenburg said.

Scharpenburg’s ex-wife is also a furloughed IRS employee, and he worries that his 15-year-old son at home will eventually be affected by the situation.

“I really thought it would be over before now,” Scharpenburg said. “In another week, it’s going to break the record for longest shutdown if it keeps going, and that’s not a record I want to see broken. So, yeah, I am worried that it will go on longer.”

Scharpenburg is first vice president in the National Treasury Employees Union Chapter 66, which covers Kansas City, Missouri. In that role, he’s hearing daily from furloughed employees who are scared and frustrated.

The union put together lists of food banks and other local resources, he said.&nbsp;

“But you know, it’s hard times for a lot of people, so it seems like the resources we lean on to help us are being stretched thin, just like just like our dollars are,” he said.

Scharpenburg said union members tell him that landlords and bankers have been willing to work with furloughed employees, knowing that eventually they’ll get back pay. The idea floated in Washington of withholding back pay was like a “slap in the face,” he said.

“When a politician says something like that, it feels like, oh, they don’t respect our work at all,” he said. “I am nervous. The law is clear that we will get paid at the end of this, but that being said, if Congress could pass something to change that … I don’t know what will happen if the executive branch were to decide just to not pay us. They’d have to go to court, but I don’t know if that would be resolved quickly.”

Many pantries statewide are stretching to meet community needs generated by rising prices and furloughed employees. Now, missing SNAP payments are expected to intensify the situation, said Debbie Johns, director of the Geary County Food Pantry.

Located in Junction City, the food pantry has been adding 12 to 15 new families each time it has a food distribution, Johns said. Typically, the organization sees just three to five new families each time it opens its doors, she said.

“It’s a little scary,” Johns said. “We’ve got a pretty good stock but you just see it go each time. If they clear the shelves, how long are we going to be able to keep up with this?”

Johns said the food pantry adapted its guidelines to make sure they are able to serve furloughed federal employees. Many of them work at Fort Riley and would exceed income guidelines.

Johns is grateful many in the Geary County area are donating food and holding food drives to help out. The county has the highest child food insecurity rate in Kansas, she said, so all of the challenges this year have made the problem worse.

Gov. Laura Kelly added food drives to the remaining stops on her statewide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/796/55#!/" target="_blank">“The People’s Budget” listening tour</a>&nbsp;because of the widespread need. Working in partnership with the Kansas Food Bank and Harvesters — The Community Food Network, she encouraged anyone attending the town hall events to bring nonperishable, nonglass food items.

“As the federal government shutdown continues to drag on, Kansans who are furloughed, and especially those who receive SNAP and WIC benefits, are caught in the crossfire,” Kelly said.&nbsp;

Kelly also announced this week that she joined a coalition of 22 states and two governors in suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Secretary Brooke Rollins for “unlawfully suspending” SNAP funds during the government shutdown.&nbsp;

“States cannot, and should not, take on the federal government’s responsibility to fund SNAP,” Kelly said in a news release. “Cutting off SNAP payments is an unprecedented choice made by the Trump Administration and Congress that will harm millions of families across the country. I joined this lawsuit to protect Kansans, because the federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund this program, not to take food out of the mouths of Kansas children.”

Grocery stores are planning for changed buying patterns as SNAP funding cuts off, said Jon McCormick, president and CEO at Retail Grocers Association, Kansas and Missouri.

SNAP benefits put nearly $33 million each month into the Kansas economy, according to the USDA.&nbsp;

The effect on grocery stores of missing SNAP payments will be “immediate,” McCormick said, although multiple factors determine the effect in specific stores.

“A store in Lenexa is going to have minimal SNAP recipients shopping,” he said. “A store in the urban core of Wichita is totally different.That could be 40% of the business. It certainly is going to affect the urban core stores and the very small rural stores.”

McCormick serves on the National Grocers Association government relations committee, and he visited Washington, D.C., last week to discuss resolutions to continue SNAP funding.

“For us as an industry, including all food manufacturers and providers, it is disruptive for the customer. It’s disruptive for the supply chain. It’s disruptive for the retailer,” he said, adding that he’s confident retailers will be able to manage through this challenge.

“The independent retailer is rather resilient and creative when it comes to adversity,” McCormick said.

Grocery store owners and managers across the state are unsure exactly how they will be affected when SNAP payments stop. Some, like Pam Budenbender, owner of Onaga Country Market, don’t expect to see many changes because her store doesn’t serve many people using SNAP.&nbsp;

However, she said she’s worried about a customer who is deaf and needs the benefit to buy food. Budenbender already helps her out as much as she can.&nbsp;

Scott Bird, co-owner of Family Market in Quinter, said his store definitely will be affected, as it participates in eWIC, part of the Women, Infant and Children’s program that offers supplemental nutrition for mothers and infants.

“It definitely will have an effect on small-town stores and people who need those services,” he said.

He isn’t yet adapting inventory but is in a “wait-and-see” mode, Bird added.

Others affected by the federal government shutdown include banks, mortgage companies and property management companies that rent apartments.

“Kansas banks and bankers stand ready to work with and support their customers who may be facing any hardships due to the current federal government shutdown,” said Doug Wareham, president and CEO of the Kansas Bankers Association.&nbsp;

In a statement, he encouraged federal employees to reach out to their banks as soon as possible to discuss their personal situation and see what help may be available, including potential fee waivers, payment deadline extensions, or other accommodations.

“The banking industry will continue to support Kansans through major challenges such as this shutdown just as we did during the pandemic and previous interruptions in government operations,” Wareham said.

Gary Olds, with the Geary County Landlords Association, said it is early in the shutdown to determine how landlords will manage missed rental payments. The Junction City area is military-dependent, he said.&nbsp;

“I think in general, landlords are going to try to work with military with regards to the rent, but that’s a broadbrush statement on my part,” he said. “Most landlords can probably weather about 30 days because they have the security deposit. Hopefully at least some of the tenants that are military have some level of savings that can make a payment or make a partial payment.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761760838341.png" alt=" Julia Loper works at the Geary County Food Pantry in Junction City, stocking shelves and helping customers. Like many food pantries across Kansas, the organization is struggling to meet community needs. (Submitted)" />
 <figcaption> Julia Loper works at the Geary County Food Pantry in Junction City, stocking shelves and helping customers. Like many food pantries across Kansas, the organization is struggling to meet community needs. (Submitted)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansans who receive food assistance or are furloughed from federal jobs are scrambling to pay bills and feed their families as the federal government shutdown drags on.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tuesday was the deadline for the federal government to reopen so that November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments could go out to beneficiaries. It takes 72 hours for the payments to process, according to the Kansas Department for Children and Families.More than 93,000 Kansas households — nearly 188,000 Kansans — use SNAP benefits to put food on their tables, DCF said in a press release. The bulk of those using SNAP are children.As politicians on both sides exchange barbs on social media and in news releases about who is at fault for shutting down the government, Kansans like Daniel Scharpenburg, of Overland Park, are carefully tracking their bank account balances. He’s worried about a teenage son with a big appetite and the possibility of empty kitchen cabinets.Scharpenburg, 45, is furloughed from the Internal Revenue Service office in Kansas City, Missouri. He worked the first five days of the shutdown, leaving Oct. 8 and receiving a paycheck in mid-October for those days of work.&nbsp;“I have to be very careful with my bills, because I have now missed a paycheck,” he said. “I’m having to rely on food banks and things like that to make sure I have food. If I start thinking about my car payment and my phone bill and my rent, I’m gonna go crazy. I really do have to focus on the next bill that’s due and hope for the best.”Scharpenburg is applying for jobs in the Kansas City area but isn’t having much luck. He said all furloughed workers in the area are competing for jobs.The IRS location employs about 6,000 people, and reports from the federal government indicate about half of IRS workers have been furloughed, he said. Housing and Urban Development also has a Kansas City office, and those employees are affected by the shutdown too, Scharpenburg said.Scharpenburg’s ex-wife is also a furloughed IRS employee, and he worries that his 15-year-old son at home will eventually be affected by the situation.“I really thought it would be over before now,” Scharpenburg said. “In another week, it’s going to break the record for longest shutdown if it keeps going, and that’s not a record I want to see broken. So, yeah, I am worried that it will go on longer.”Scharpenburg is first vice president in the National Treasury Employees Union Chapter 66, which covers Kansas City, Missouri. In that role, he’s hearing daily from furloughed employees who are scared and frustrated.The union put together lists of food banks and other local resources, he said.&nbsp;“But you know, it’s hard times for a lot of people, so it seems like the resources we lean on to help us are being stretched thin, just like just like our dollars are,” he said.Scharpenburg said union members tell him that landlords and bankers have been willing to work with furloughed employees, knowing that eventually they’ll get back pay. The idea floated in Washington of withholding back pay was like a “slap in the face,” he said.“When a politician says something like that, it feels like, oh, they don’t respect our work at all,” he said. “I am nervous. The law is clear that we will get paid at the end of this, but that being said, if Congress could pass something to change that … I don’t know what will happen if the executive branch were to decide just to not pay us. They’d have to go to court, but I don’t know if that would be resolved quickly.”<h2>Food pantries struggling</h2>Many pantries statewide are stretching to meet community needs generated by rising prices and furloughed employees. Now, missing SNAP payments are expected to intensify the situation, said Debbie Johns, director of the Geary County Food Pantry.Located in Junction City, the food pantry has been adding 12 to 15 new families each time it has a food distribution, Johns said. Typically, the organization sees just three to five new families each time it opens its doors, she said.“It’s a little scary,” Johns said. “We’ve got a pretty good stock but you just see it go each time. If they clear the shelves, how long are we going to be able to keep up with this?”Johns said the food pantry adapted its guidelines to make sure they are able to serve furloughed federal employees. Many of them work at Fort Riley and would exceed income guidelines.Johns is grateful many in the Geary County area are donating food and holding food drives to help out. The county has the highest child food insecurity rate in Kansas, she said, so all of the challenges this year have made the problem worse.Gov. Laura Kelly added food drives to the remaining stops on her statewide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/796/55#!/" target="_blank">“The People’s Budget” listening tour</a>&nbsp;because of the widespread need. Working in partnership with the Kansas Food Bank and Harvesters — The Community Food Network, she encouraged anyone attending the town hall events to bring nonperishable, nonglass food items.“As the federal government shutdown continues to drag on, Kansans who are furloughed, and especially those who receive SNAP and WIC benefits, are caught in the crossfire,” Kelly said.&nbsp;Kelly also announced this week that she joined a coalition of 22 states and two governors in suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Secretary Brooke Rollins for “unlawfully suspending” SNAP funds during the government shutdown.&nbsp;“States cannot, and should not, take on the federal government’s responsibility to fund SNAP,” Kelly said in a news release. “Cutting off SNAP payments is an unprecedented choice made by the Trump Administration and Congress that will harm millions of families across the country. I joined this lawsuit to protect Kansans, because the federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund this program, not to take food out of the mouths of Kansas children.”<h2>Economic challenges</h2>Grocery stores are planning for changed buying patterns as SNAP funding cuts off, said Jon McCormick, president and CEO at Retail Grocers Association, Kansas and Missouri.SNAP benefits put nearly $33 million each month into the Kansas economy, according to the USDA.&nbsp;The effect on grocery stores of missing SNAP payments will be “immediate,” McCormick said, although multiple factors determine the effect in specific stores.“A store in Lenexa is going to have minimal SNAP recipients shopping,” he said. “A store in the urban core of Wichita is totally different.That could be 40% of the business. It certainly is going to affect the urban core stores and the very small rural stores.”McCormick serves on the National Grocers Association government relations committee, and he visited Washington, D.C., last week to discuss resolutions to continue SNAP funding.“For us as an industry, including all food manufacturers and providers, it is disruptive for the customer. It’s disruptive for the supply chain. It’s disruptive for the retailer,” he said, adding that he’s confident retailers will be able to manage through this challenge.“The independent retailer is rather resilient and creative when it comes to adversity,” McCormick said.Grocery store owners and managers across the state are unsure exactly how they will be affected when SNAP payments stop. Some, like Pam Budenbender, owner of Onaga Country Market, don’t expect to see many changes because her store doesn’t serve many people using SNAP.&nbsp;However, she said she’s worried about a customer who is deaf and needs the benefit to buy food. Budenbender already helps her out as much as she can.&nbsp;Scott Bird, co-owner of Family Market in Quinter, said his store definitely will be affected, as it participates in eWIC, part of the Women, Infant and Children’s program that offers supplemental nutrition for mothers and infants.“It definitely will have an effect on small-town stores and people who need those services,” he said.He isn’t yet adapting inventory but is in a “wait-and-see” mode, Bird added.Others affected by the federal government shutdown include banks, mortgage companies and property management companies that rent apartments.“Kansas banks and bankers stand ready to work with and support their customers who may be facing any hardships due to the current federal government shutdown,” said Doug Wareham, president and CEO of the Kansas Bankers Association.&nbsp;In a statement, he encouraged federal employees to reach out to their banks as soon as possible to discuss their personal situation and see what help may be available, including potential fee waivers, payment deadline extensions, or other accommodations.“The banking industry will continue to support Kansans through major challenges such as this shutdown just as we did during the pandemic and previous interruptions in government operations,” Wareham said.Gary Olds, with the Geary County Landlords Association, said it is early in the shutdown to determine how landlords will manage missed rental payments. The Junction City area is military-dependent, he said.&nbsp;“I think in general, landlords are going to try to work with military with regards to the rent, but that’s a broadbrush statement on my part,” he said. “Most landlords can probably weather about 30 days because they have the security deposit. Hopefully at least some of the tenants that are military have some level of savings that can make a payment or make a partial payment.”

‘Hope for the best’: Government shutdown strains Kansas food resources, local businesses

Fort Hays State Women's Basketball at Kansas Wednesday, October 29, 2025 • 6:30 p.m. Lawrence, Kan. • Allen Fieldhouse Admission to the game is FREE

Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>

The Fort Hays State women's basketball team will open the 2025-26 preseason with an exhibition matchup against the University of Kansas Wednesday evening (Oct. 29) in Lawrence, Kan., with the opening tip slated for 6:30 p.m. inside historic Allen Fieldhouse.

For fans planning to make the drive to Lawrence, there is no admission charge for the women's game. Live video will be available with a subscription to ESPN+, while radio coverage with voice of the Tigers Gerard Wellbrock will be available on KJLS 103.3 and online <a href="https://mix103fm.com/">here</a>. Live stats will also be available online here.

Roster Report - Fort Hays State's roster includes seven returners and six newcomers, including five freshmen and one transfer. - This year's squad includes players from seven different states, including five from Kansas, three from Colorado and one each from Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina and Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp; - There are three seniors, two juniors, three sophomores and five freshmen on the squad this year. - The Tigers return two All-MIAA honorable mention selections in Brooke Loewe and Talexa Weeter. - Loewe led all Division II with 233 assists last season, breaking FHSU's single-season assists record in the process. She also averaged 7.5 points per game while leading the Tigers with an 80.0 percent free throw percentage. - Weeter had a standout sophomore campaign, averaging 14.6 points and 6.0 rebounds per contest. She hit 53.0 percent from the floor on the year and scored in double figures 25 times, including nine games with 20 or more points. The Goodland, Kan. native tallied 35 points in an MIAA Tournament quarterfinal matchup against UCM, the most points scored by a Tiger last season. - Ellie Stearns returns for her senior season as the most experienced player in a Tiger uniform, playing in 98 contests over her first three seasons. The Andover, Kan. native hit a team-best 35 3-pointers last season, giving her 90 career makes from behind the arc. - Maddy Powell played in 25 games as a true freshman last season, averaging 12.0 minutes per game and dishing out 40 assists. - Avery Lowe scored 2.1 points and grabbed 1.2 rebounds per game in 19 appearances last season as a redshirt freshman. - Callie Ott appeared in 18 contests as a true freshman in 2024-25, shooting 50.0 percent from behind the 3-point line and 83.3 percent from the charity stripe. - Sarah Lawless saw action in 15 games last year as a junior transfer, racking up 11 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. She led the team in blocks in one game. The Shawnee, Kan. native is the first Tiger in history to wear No. 2. - Newcomers include junior transfer TiAna Davis and freshmen Olivia Mortensen, Mikayla Pilley, Kaitlin Schumann, Izzy Spagnoletti and Brittan Zeka.

Head coach Talia Kahrs - Talia Kahrs enters her third season as head coach at Fort Hays State University in 2025-26. - She has a career record of 53-13, winning more than 80 percent of the time. - Kahrs has been a part of Tiger basketball for 18 years, including three as head coach, 11 as an assistant coach, one as a student assistant and three as a player. - She has helped 49 players earn All-MIAA status as a head coach/assistant and has helped the Tigers to 346 wins in her time on the coaching staff. - The Tryon, Neb. native has helped the Tigers to 14-consecutive 20-win seasons, nine NCAA DII Central Regional berths and six MIAA trophies.

20 Wins Now the Norm - Fort Hays State has now reached the 20-win plateau in each of the last 14 seasons, extending the longest active streak of 20-win seasons in Division II. FHSU's streak is tied for the fifth-longest active streak of 20-win seasons across all NCAA Divisions. - FHSU reached the 20-win plateau just eight times over the first 42 years of the program before the current streak began in 2011-12, including no more than two consecutive 20-win campaigns during that time. - The next-best active streak of 20-win seasons in the MIAA is four (MWSU), while the next-best streak in DII is Drury with 12. - Only four DI programs have longer active stretches of 20-win seasons, including UConn (32), Baylor (25), Florida Gulf Coast (21) and Louisville (15). Fort Hays State's run of 14-straight 20-win seasons is tied with South Carolina and South Dakota State for sixth-best in all NCAA women's basketball.

Last Meeting with KU - Fort Hays State forced overtime in its last trip to Allen Fieldhouse before KU won 90-83 in overtime on October 28, 2018. - The Tigers' 83 points were the most KU has ever allowed in an exhibition game and are the most FHSU has ever scored against the Jayhawks (24 games, exhibition and regular season). - FHSU led by as many as four in the first half, but went into the locker room down eight, 44-36. - The Tigers trailed by as many as nine in the fourth quarter, but battled back before Taylor Rolfs hit a buzzer beater from the right wing to tie the game at 79 and send things to OT. - Rolfs hit another 3-pointer in OT to give FHSU an 82-81 lead with 3:53 to play, but the Jayhawks finished the game on a 9-1 run to avoid the upset. - Lanie Page led all scorers with 21 points thanks to four 3-pointers, while Rolfs scored 14. Belle Barbieri totaled 12 points and eight rebounds. - Austin Richardson led the Jayhawks with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while freshman Brooklyn Mitchell added 17 points off the bench.

Series History - The Tigers and Jayhawks played 14 times in the regular season in the 1970's, splitting the all-time series 7-7. Fort Hays State beat KU twice in Lawrence, once in the 1971-72 season and again in the 1973-74 season. - This is the 11th exhibition meeting between the two teams, with Kansas winning all 10 previous preseason matchups. - The Jayhawks have won 13 in a row overall.

Scouting the Jayhawks - The Jayhawks return their top six scorers from last year's squad that turned in a record of 16-14. - S'Mya Nichols is the top returner after earning WBCA honorable mention All-America status as a sophomore last season. The Overland Park, Kan. native has averaged 16.9 points per game in her two-year career at KU. - KU was picked sixth in this year's Big 12 Presason Poll, while Nichols was picked to the Preseason All-Big 12 team. - Brandon Schneider enters his 11th season as head coach at KU with a record of 143-163 as a Jayhawk. The former Emporia State head coach is entering his 28th year as a collegiate head coach with a lifetime record of 544-301.

Looking Ahead - Fort Hays State will open the regular season at the Central Region Showcase in St. Joseph, Mo. for a third year in a row when the Tigers take on Concordia-St. Paul on Friday, November 14 beginning at 5 p.m. - The Tigers will play their first eight games away from home before hosting Pittsburg State in a non-conference matchup for the first home game of the season on Saturday, December 13.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761686344946.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsFort Hays State Women's Basketball at Kansas Wednesday, October 29, 2025 • 6:30 p.m. Lawrence, Kan. • Allen Fieldhouse Admission to the game is FREERadio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a>The Fort Hays State women's basketball team will open the 2025-26 preseason with an exhibition matchup against the University of Kansas Wednesday evening (Oct. 29) in Lawrence, Kan., with the opening tip slated for 6:30 p.m. inside historic Allen Fieldhouse.For fans planning to make the drive to Lawrence, there is no admission charge for the women's game. Live video will be available with a subscription to ESPN+, while radio coverage with voice of the Tigers Gerard Wellbrock will be available on KJLS 103.3 and online <a href="https://mix103fm.com/">here</a>. Live stats will also be available online here.Roster Report - Fort Hays State's roster includes seven returners and six newcomers, including five freshmen and one transfer. - This year's squad includes players from seven different states, including five from Kansas, three from Colorado and one each from Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina and Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp; - There are three seniors, two juniors, three sophomores and five freshmen on the squad this year. - The Tigers return two All-MIAA honorable mention selections in Brooke Loewe and Talexa Weeter. - Loewe led all Division II with 233 assists last season, breaking FHSU's single-season assists record in the process. She also averaged 7.5 points per game while leading the Tigers with an 80.0 percent free throw percentage. - Weeter had a standout sophomore campaign, averaging 14.6 points and 6.0 rebounds per contest. She hit 53.0 percent from the floor on the year and scored in double figures 25 times, including nine games with 20 or more points. The Goodland, Kan. native tallied 35 points in an MIAA Tournament quarterfinal matchup against UCM, the most points scored by a Tiger last season. - Ellie Stearns returns for her senior season as the most experienced player in a Tiger uniform, playing in 98 contests over her first three seasons. The Andover, Kan. native hit a team-best 35 3-pointers last season, giving her 90 career makes from behind the arc. - Maddy Powell played in 25 games as a true freshman last season, averaging 12.0 minutes per game and dishing out 40 assists. - Avery Lowe scored 2.1 points and grabbed 1.2 rebounds per game in 19 appearances last season as a redshirt freshman. - Callie Ott appeared in 18 contests as a true freshman in 2024-25, shooting 50.0 percent from behind the 3-point line and 83.3 percent from the charity stripe. - Sarah Lawless saw action in 15 games last year as a junior transfer, racking up 11 points, eight rebounds and two blocks. She led the team in blocks in one game. The Shawnee, Kan. native is the first Tiger in history to wear No. 2. - Newcomers include junior transfer TiAna Davis and freshmen Olivia Mortensen, Mikayla Pilley, Kaitlin Schumann, Izzy Spagnoletti and Brittan Zeka.Head coach Talia Kahrs - Talia Kahrs enters her third season as head coach at Fort Hays State University in 2025-26. - She has a career record of 53-13, winning more than 80 percent of the time. - Kahrs has been a part of Tiger basketball for 18 years, including three as head coach, 11 as an assistant coach, one as a student assistant and three as a player. - She has helped 49 players earn All-MIAA status as a head coach/assistant and has helped the Tigers to 346 wins in her time on the coaching staff. - The Tryon, Neb. native has helped the Tigers to 14-consecutive 20-win seasons, nine NCAA DII Central Regional berths and six MIAA trophies.20 Wins Now the Norm - Fort Hays State has now reached the 20-win plateau in each of the last 14 seasons, extending the longest active streak of 20-win seasons in Division II. FHSU's streak is tied for the fifth-longest active streak of 20-win seasons across all NCAA Divisions. - FHSU reached the 20-win plateau just eight times over the first 42 years of the program before the current streak began in 2011-12, including no more than two consecutive 20-win campaigns during that time. - The next-best active streak of 20-win seasons in the MIAA is four (MWSU), while the next-best streak in DII is Drury with 12. - Only four DI programs have longer active stretches of 20-win seasons, including UConn (32), Baylor (25), Florida Gulf Coast (21) and Louisville (15). Fort Hays State's run of 14-straight 20-win seasons is tied with South Carolina and South Dakota State for sixth-best in all NCAA women's basketball.Last Meeting with KU - Fort Hays State forced overtime in its last trip to Allen Fieldhouse before KU won 90-83 in overtime on October 28, 2018. - The Tigers' 83 points were the most KU has ever allowed in an exhibition game and are the most FHSU has ever scored against the Jayhawks (24 games, exhibition and regular season). - FHSU led by as many as four in the first half, but went into the locker room down eight, 44-36. - The Tigers trailed by as many as nine in the fourth quarter, but battled back before Taylor Rolfs hit a buzzer beater from the right wing to tie the game at 79 and send things to OT. - Rolfs hit another 3-pointer in OT to give FHSU an 82-81 lead with 3:53 to play, but the Jayhawks finished the game on a 9-1 run to avoid the upset. - Lanie Page led all scorers with 21 points thanks to four 3-pointers, while Rolfs scored 14. Belle Barbieri totaled 12 points and eight rebounds. - Austin Richardson led the Jayhawks with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while freshman Brooklyn Mitchell added 17 points off the bench.Series History - The Tigers and Jayhawks played 14 times in the regular season in the 1970's, splitting the all-time series 7-7. Fort Hays State beat KU twice in Lawrence, once in the 1971-72 season and again in the 1973-74 season. - This is the 11th exhibition meeting between the two teams, with Kansas winning all 10 previous preseason matchups. - The Jayhawks have won 13 in a row overall.Scouting the Jayhawks - The Jayhawks return their top six scorers from last year's squad that turned in a record of 16-14. - S'Mya Nichols is the top returner after earning WBCA honorable mention All-America status as a sophomore last season. The Overland Park, Kan. native has averaged 16.9 points per game in her two-year career at KU. - KU was picked sixth in this year's Big 12 Presason Poll, while Nichols was picked to the Preseason All-Big 12 team. - Brandon Schneider enters his 11th season as head coach at KU with a record of 143-163 as a Jayhawk. The former Emporia State head coach is entering his 28th year as a collegiate head coach with a lifetime record of 544-301.Looking Ahead - Fort Hays State will open the regular season at the Central Region Showcase in St. Joseph, Mo. for a third year in a row when the Tigers take on Concordia-St. Paul on Friday, November 14 beginning at 5 p.m. - The Tigers will play their first eight games away from home before hosting Pittsburg State in a non-conference matchup for the first home game of the season on Saturday, December 13.

🏀🎧 LISTEN: FHSU women face Kansas in exhibition Wednesday in Lawrence

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas teen on drug allegations.

On October 27, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in 2800 BLK SE Powell Street in Topeka. related to an ongoing investigation, according to Topeka Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

As a result, Isaiah Timmons, 19, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and is being held on requested charges of Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transactions, Kansas Drug Tax, Transport open container of liquor, Liquor; Purchase/possess/consumption by minor 18-20 yrs and Possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761678946006.png" alt="Timmons photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Timmons photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas teen on drug allegations.On October 27, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in 2800 BLK SE Powell Street in Topeka. related to an ongoing investigation, according to Topeka Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.While conducting the search warrant, officers located marijuana and drug paraphernalia.As a result, Isaiah Timmons, 19, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and is being held on requested charges of Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to distribute, Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transactions, Kansas Drug Tax, Transport open container of liquor, Liquor; Purchase/possess/consumption by minor 18-20 yrs and Possession of drug paraphernalia.

Police: Kansas teen jailed for selling marijuana

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

Wednesday, October 29
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB at Kansas (exhibition), 6:05pm

Thursday, October 30
 KFIX: Hays High FB
vs. Goddard Eisenhower, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Valley Heights, 6:30pm

Friday, October 31
 KKQY: Plainville at
Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, 6:00pm

Saturday, November 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Missouri, 12:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB Oklahoma State, 1:30pm

Sunday, November 2
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB at Buffalo Bills, 2:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Wednesday, October 29
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pm KJLS: Fort Hays State WBKB at Kansas (exhibition), 6:05pmThursday, October 30
 KFIX: Hays High FB
vs. Goddard Eisenhower, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Valley Heights, 6:30pmFriday, October 31
 KKQY: Plainville at
Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, 6:00pm Saturday, November 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Missouri, 12:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB Oklahoma State, 1:30pmSunday, November 2
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB at Buffalo Bills, 2:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

LENORA —&nbsp;Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Janette Meis as its new Executive Director. Meis brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and youth programming, with a career dedicated to advancing opportunities for young people and strengthening Kansas communities.

Prior to joining Nex-Generation, Meis spent 10 years at Fort Hays State University, including two and a half years with the FHSU Alumni Association and the remainder as Communications Specialist in the Office of the President. Before her time at the university, she served 15 years as the State Director for Kansas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), where she led statewide efforts supporting volunteers who advocate for children in the foster care system.

“I’m thrilled to join an organization that’s making such a tangible difference in the lives of rural youth,” said Meis. “Nex-Generation’s programs open doors for young people to explore careers, build real-world skills, and envision a future right here in Northwest and North Central Kansas. I’m excited to help strengthen and grow those opportunities.”

Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth continues to invest in the region’s future leaders through a variety of educational and career-based programs:

· Internship/Work Study Programs: Connecting high school and college students with local businesses to gain hands-on career experience. Business applications to host interns are currently open until December 1.

· Life$kills: In-person Interactive classroom sessions that teach students essential financial literacy and personal development skills. The deadline to apply is November 21.

· Virtual Career Fairs: Engaging online events that introduce students to regional employers and career pathways. Deadline for participating is October 30.

· Young AmeriTowne of Kansas: A hands-on learning experience designed for 4th – 8th grades, where students operate a simulated town, learning about entrepreneurship, civics, and economics. School enrollment deadline for Young AmeriTowne is October 31. To enroll go to: <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne">www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne</a>

Starting in 2013, Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing and retaining youth for future careers in the 28 counties of Northwest and North Central. Through career exploration, leadership, and entrepreneurship programs, the organization helps young people envision their future close to home.

For more information about Nex-Generation’s programs or to apply/enroll in one of our programs, visit <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/">www.nex-generation.org</a> or contact Janette Meis at jmeis@nex-generation.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761590780658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLENORA —&nbsp;Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Janette Meis as its new Executive Director. Meis brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and youth programming, with a career dedicated to advancing opportunities for young people and strengthening Kansas communities.Prior to joining Nex-Generation, Meis spent 10 years at Fort Hays State University, including two and a half years with the FHSU Alumni Association and the remainder as Communications Specialist in the Office of the President. Before her time at the university, she served 15 years as the State Director for Kansas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), where she led statewide efforts supporting volunteers who advocate for children in the foster care system.“I’m thrilled to join an organization that’s making such a tangible difference in the lives of rural youth,” said Meis. “Nex-Generation’s programs open doors for young people to explore careers, build real-world skills, and envision a future right here in Northwest and North Central Kansas. I’m excited to help strengthen and grow those opportunities.”Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth continues to invest in the region’s future leaders through a variety of educational and career-based programs:· Internship/Work Study Programs: Connecting high school and college students with local businesses to gain hands-on career experience. Business applications to host interns are currently open until December 1.· Life$kills: In-person Interactive classroom sessions that teach students essential financial literacy and personal development skills. The deadline to apply is November 21.· Virtual Career Fairs: Engaging online events that introduce students to regional employers and career pathways. Deadline for participating is October 30.· Young AmeriTowne of Kansas: A hands-on learning experience designed for 4th – 8th grades, where students operate a simulated town, learning about entrepreneurship, civics, and economics. School enrollment deadline for Young AmeriTowne is October 31. To enroll go to: <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne">www.nex-generation.org/young-ameritowne</a>Starting in 2013, Nex-Generation Round Up for Youth is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing and retaining youth for future careers in the 28 counties of Northwest and North Central. Through career exploration, leadership, and entrepreneurship programs, the organization helps young people envision their future close to home.For more information about Nex-Generation’s programs or to apply/enroll in one of our programs, visit <a href="https://www.nex-generation.org/">www.nex-generation.org</a> or contact Janette Meis at jmeis@nex-generation.org.

Nex-Generation round up for youth welcomes new executive director

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Fort Hays State fought hard defensively, but ultimately fell 71-35 to Kansas in exhibition play on Tuesday evening. The Tigers held the Jayhawks to their lowest amount of points ever in the all-time series between the teams, regular season and exhibition combined.

Fort Hays State set the tone that it was ready to battle with a tough defensive stop on the first possession of the game as Kansas had a few chances to score. However, the Tigers had a tough time hitting shots throughout the evening and ultimately led to Kansas pulling away slowly throughout the game.

The Jayhawks opened the game on a 7-0 run, but the Tigers eventually reeled them back in with a 6-0 burst midway through the first half. At the third media break of the first half, the Tigers trailed by just five at 17-12, but with the cold shooting performance of the evening, the Jayhawks eventually went on to lead 33-16 at the half.

The Tigers put a dent in the Jayhawk advantage with a 6-0 run to open the second half, getting the lead down to 33-22. However, KU countered with a 10-0 run of its own to pull ahead 43-22 and methodically worked its way away from FHSU the remainder of the half.

The Tigers struggled to just 16-of-61 shooting for the game and hit only 1-of-19 3-point field goal attempts. The free-throw line was also a struggle, just 2-of-10. But aside from the rough shooting night, the Tigers still held the Jayhawks to just 71 points. KU shot 47.4 percent for the game and turned the ball over 13 times, while the Tigers did a good job taking care of the ball and turned it over only seven times. FHSU had seven steals compared to just three for KU.

Lucas Hammeke and Dan Mukuna led the Tigers in scoring with eight points each, while Juju Ramirez and Kyle Grill each had seven.

Melvin Council, Jr. led the Jayhawks in scoring with 16 points, while Tre White had 12 and Bryson Tiller had 10.

Fort Hays State opens regular season play on Saturday, November 15 at home against Southwest Minnesota State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761709406617.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Dan Makuna (0) goes in for a layup in and exhibition game against Kansas on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 in Lawrence, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Parker Neibeth)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Dan Makuna (0) goes in for a layup in and exhibition game against Kansas on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 in Lawrence, Kan. (FHSU Athletics photo/Parker Neibeth)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsLAWRENCE, Kan. – Fort Hays State fought hard defensively, but ultimately fell 71-35 to Kansas in exhibition play on Tuesday evening. The Tigers held the Jayhawks to their lowest amount of points ever in the all-time series between the teams, regular season and exhibition combined.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2201246051&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/10-28-25-fhsu-mbkb-coach" title="Mark Johnson Postgame at #19 Kansas (October 28, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Mark Johnson Postgame at #19 Kansas (October 28, 2025)</a></div></div>Fort Hays State set the tone that it was ready to battle with a tough defensive stop on the first possession of the game as Kansas had a few chances to score. However, the Tigers had a tough time hitting shots throughout the evening and ultimately led to Kansas pulling away slowly throughout the game.The Jayhawks opened the game on a 7-0 run, but the Tigers eventually reeled them back in with a 6-0 burst midway through the first half. At the third media break of the first half, the Tigers trailed by just five at 17-12, but with the cold shooting performance of the evening, the Jayhawks eventually went on to lead 33-16 at the half.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2201246251&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/10-28-25-fhsu-mbkb-player" title="Kyle Grill Postgame at #19 Kansas (October 28, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Kyle Grill Postgame at #19 Kansas (October 28, 2025)</a></div></div>The Tigers put a dent in the Jayhawk advantage with a 6-0 run to open the second half, getting the lead down to 33-22. However, KU countered with a 10-0 run of its own to pull ahead 43-22 and methodically worked its way away from FHSU the remainder of the half.The Tigers struggled to just 16-of-61 shooting for the game and hit only 1-of-19 3-point field goal attempts. The free-throw line was also a struggle, just 2-of-10. But aside from the rough shooting night, the Tigers still held the Jayhawks to just 71 points. KU shot 47.4 percent for the game and turned the ball over 13 times, while the Tigers did a good job taking care of the ball and turned it over only seven times. FHSU had seven steals compared to just three for KU.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/soundcloud%253Atracks%253A2201246451&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/10-28-25-fhsu-mbkb-highlights" title="Fort Hays State MBKB Highlights at #19 Kansas (October 28, 2025)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State MBKB Highlights at #19 Kansas (October 28, 2025)</a></div></div>Lucas Hammeke and Dan Mukuna led the Tigers in scoring with eight points each, while Juju Ramirez and Kyle Grill each had seven.Melvin Council, Jr. led the Jayhawks in scoring with 16 points, while Tre White had 12 and Bryson Tiller had 10.<h2>Up next</h2>Fort Hays State opens regular season play on Saturday, November 15 at home against Southwest Minnesota State.

🏀 Tigers hold Jayhawks to lowest point total in series history

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State moved up to No. 4 in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll, released on Tuesday. Now at 12-0-3 overall for the season, the Tigers remained in the top five for a second-straight week and now match their second-highest ranking ever in the poll, just one spot shy of the program high.

Fort Hays State remains unbeaten through 15 matches this season. They are 8-0-1 so far in GAC play and have three matches remaining for the season, all in conference play. Fort Hays State will be on the road for those final three matches, starting with a road trip to Arkansas this week to face Ouachita Baptist (Thursday) and Harding (Saturday).

This is the longest unbeaten streak to start a season in program history and 15 matches is the second-longest unbeaten streak in program history at any point of a season. The program record is 16, set by the 2018 team that made the national semifinals.

Fort Hays State and Rogers State continue as the two teams from the GAC represented in the Top 25. The Hillcats are No. 18 in the latest poll with an overall record of 9-2-4. Rogers State's only two losses this year were to Fort Hays State. Northeastern State is among the receiving votes section of the latest poll.

Fort Hays State is one of six teams in the top 10 this week that remain unbeaten for the season. There are seven total teams in the top 25 without a loss this season.

Fort Hays State is the national leader in total points (128), total assists (44), points per match (8.53), goal differential (+36), assists per match (2.93), and corner kicks per match (8.4). The Tigers rank second nationally in scoring offense (2.8 goals per match), shutout percentage (.733), total goals (42), and won-loss-tie percentage (.900).

United Soccer Coaches Top 25 for October 28, 2025. Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1	California State University Stanislaus	1	13-0-1 2	University of Charleston	2	12-0-3 3	Palm Beach Atlantic University	3	11-0-1 4	Fort Hays State University	5	12-0-3 5	Anderson University (S.C.)	4	8-0-4 6	Southern New Hampshire University	14	11-1-2 7	Lynn University	6	9-2-1 8	Cedarville University	9	10-0-5 9	Midwestern State University	12	9-3-3 10	California State University-Dominguez Hills	16	9-2-3 11	Bentley University	7	9-1-3 12	Young Harris College	8	10-1-3 13	Fort Lewis College	19	6-3-4 14	Point Loma Nazarene University	10	9-3-1 15	Lincoln University (Mo.)	21	10-0-4 16	Gannon University	24	8-2-4 17	Florida Tech	15	7-1-6 18	Rogers State University	17	9-2-4 19	University of North Georgia	20	9-3-4 20	Rockhurst University	18	10-3-2 21	University of Texas-Dallas	NR	10-3-2 22	Bloomsburg University	13	6-1-6 23	Adelphi University	NR	7-3-3 T24	University of West Florida	23	8-1-4 T24	Seattle Pacific University	NR	9-2-4

Receiving Votes:  Northeastern State University, Lander University, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Mississippi College, Post University, Tiffin University, Cal Poly Pomona, Colorado State University-Pueblo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761709886638.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State moved up to No. 4 in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll, released on Tuesday. Now at 12-0-3 overall for the season, the Tigers remained in the top five for a second-straight week and now match their second-highest ranking ever in the poll, just one spot shy of the program high.Fort Hays State remains unbeaten through 15 matches this season. They are 8-0-1 so far in GAC play and have three matches remaining for the season, all in conference play. Fort Hays State will be on the road for those final three matches, starting with a road trip to Arkansas this week to face Ouachita Baptist (Thursday) and Harding (Saturday).This is the longest unbeaten streak to start a season in program history and 15 matches is the second-longest unbeaten streak in program history at any point of a season. The program record is 16, set by the 2018 team that made the national semifinals.Fort Hays State and Rogers State continue as the two teams from the GAC represented in the Top 25. The Hillcats are No. 18 in the latest poll with an overall record of 9-2-4. Rogers State's only two losses this year were to Fort Hays State. Northeastern State is among the receiving votes section of the latest poll.Fort Hays State is one of six teams in the top 10 this week that remain unbeaten for the season. There are seven total teams in the top 25 without a loss this season.Fort Hays State is the national leader in total points (128), total assists (44), points per match (8.53), goal differential (+36), assists per match (2.93), and corner kicks per match (8.4). The Tigers rank second nationally in scoring offense (2.8 goals per match), shutout percentage (.733), total goals (42), and won-loss-tie percentage (.900).United Soccer Coaches Top 25 for October 28, 2025. Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1	California State University Stanislaus	1	13-0-1 2	University of Charleston	2	12-0-3 3	Palm Beach Atlantic University	3	11-0-1 4	Fort Hays State University	5	12-0-3 5	Anderson University (S.C.)	4	8-0-4 6	Southern New Hampshire University	14	11-1-2 7	Lynn University	6	9-2-1 8	Cedarville University	9	10-0-5 9	Midwestern State University	12	9-3-3 10	California State University-Dominguez Hills	16	9-2-3 11	Bentley University	7	9-1-3 12	Young Harris College	8	10-1-3 13	Fort Lewis College	19	6-3-4 14	Point Loma Nazarene University	10	9-3-1 15	Lincoln University (Mo.)	21	10-0-4 16	Gannon University	24	8-2-4 17	Florida Tech	15	7-1-6 18	Rogers State University	17	9-2-4 19	University of North Georgia	20	9-3-4 20	Rockhurst University	18	10-3-2 21	University of Texas-Dallas	NR	10-3-2 22	Bloomsburg University	13	6-1-6 23	Adelphi University	NR	7-3-3 T24	University of West Florida	23	8-1-4 T24	Seattle Pacific University	NR	9-2-4Receiving Votes: Northeastern State University, Lander University, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Mississippi College, Post University, Tiffin University, Cal Poly Pomona, Colorado State University-Pueblo.

⚽ Tigers up to No. 4 in United Soccer Coaches rankings

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday, joined a coalition of 22 attorneys general and two governors in filing a lawsuit against the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Secretary Brooke Rollins for unlawfully suspending the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.&nbsp;

“States cannot, and should not, take on the federal government’s responsibility to fund SNAP,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Cutting off SNAP payments is an unprecedented choice made by the Trump Administration and Congress that will harm millions of families across the country. I joined this lawsuit to protect Kansans, because the federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund this program, not to take food out of the mouths of Kansas children.”

On October 1, 2025, the new federal fiscal year began without an appropriation by Congress to fund the federal government, creating a government shutdown. On October 10, the USDA sent a letter to state SNAP agencies saying that if the shutdown continues, there will be insufficient funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for the approximately 42 million Americans that rely on them. &nbsp;

Despite USDA’s claim of insufficient funds, the agency has access to billions of dollars in SNAP-specific contingency funds appropriated by Congress for this purpose. Furthermore, USDA has funded other programs with emergency funds during this shutdown, but has refused to fund SNAP, leaving millions of Americans without the assistance they need to buy food. It is clear the federal government is making a deliberate, illegal, and inhumane choice not to fund the crucial SNAP program.&nbsp;

The lapse in benefits will have dire consequences for the health and well-being of millions across the country, who rely on the program to feed themselves and their families. This lapse will also put unnecessary strain on state and local governments and community organizations, as families increasingly rely on emergency services and local food pantries that are already struggling to fill a growing nutrition gap. It will affect school systems, including college and university communities, where food insecurity will stand in the way of educating students. Suspending SNAP benefits will also harm the hundreds of thousands of grocers and merchants that accept SNAP payment for food purchases across the country. The USDA has estimated that in a slowing economy, every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.54 in economic activity.&nbsp;

In Kansas, nearly 188,000 children, families, and seniors rely on SNAP each month to meet their needs. Ordinarily, more than 93,000 Kansas households would receive a total distribution of more than $34.4 million in SNAP benefits. The Kansas Department for Children and Families, which administers the SNAP program, will continue to closely monitor the situation and its impacts on services the agency provides.

While the federal government funds and sets the monthly amount of SNAP benefits, states are responsible for administering programs in their state. Suspending SNAP benefits in this manner is both contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act. Where Congress has clearly spoken, providing that SNAP benefits should continue even during a government shutdown, USDA does not have the authority to say otherwise. The coalition will also be filing a temporary restraining order later today asking the court to immediately turn benefits back on.&nbsp;

Joining&nbsp;Governor Kelly in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon,&nbsp;Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin. The Governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania have also joined.

Information about federal shutdown impacts on DCF programs and services is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx/1/0101019a2c925b18-1a97ee00-5c46-46fa-81bf-8fdbbe95f1b6-000000/5VIAYM9XO3ktK7g_ze-kJeW4ZRwH1bkUQnl31aoZJFY=428">dcf.ks.gov.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689674819900.png" alt="Photo USDA" />
 <figcaption>Photo USDA</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday, joined a coalition of 22 attorneys general and two governors in filing a lawsuit against the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Secretary Brooke Rollins for unlawfully suspending the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.&nbsp;“States cannot, and should not, take on the federal government’s responsibility to fund SNAP,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Cutting off SNAP payments is an unprecedented choice made by the Trump Administration and Congress that will harm millions of families across the country. I joined this lawsuit to protect Kansans, because the federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund this program, not to take food out of the mouths of Kansas children.”On October 1, 2025, the new federal fiscal year began without an appropriation by Congress to fund the federal government, creating a government shutdown. On October 10, the USDA sent a letter to state SNAP agencies saying that if the shutdown continues, there will be insufficient funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for the approximately 42 million Americans that rely on them. &nbsp;Despite USDA’s claim of insufficient funds, the agency has access to billions of dollars in SNAP-specific contingency funds appropriated by Congress for this purpose. Furthermore, USDA has funded other programs with emergency funds during this shutdown, but has refused to fund SNAP, leaving millions of Americans without the assistance they need to buy food. It is clear the federal government is making a deliberate, illegal, and inhumane choice not to fund the crucial SNAP program.&nbsp;The lapse in benefits will have dire consequences for the health and well-being of millions across the country, who rely on the program to feed themselves and their families. This lapse will also put unnecessary strain on state and local governments and community organizations, as families increasingly rely on emergency services and local food pantries that are already struggling to fill a growing nutrition gap. It will affect school systems, including college and university communities, where food insecurity will stand in the way of educating students. Suspending SNAP benefits will also harm the hundreds of thousands of grocers and merchants that accept SNAP payment for food purchases across the country. The USDA has estimated that in a slowing economy, every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.54 in economic activity.&nbsp;In Kansas, nearly 188,000 children, families, and seniors rely on SNAP each month to meet their needs. Ordinarily, more than 93,000 Kansas households would receive a total distribution of more than $34.4 million in SNAP benefits. The Kansas Department for Children and Families, which administers the SNAP program, will continue to closely monitor the situation and its impacts on services the agency provides.While the federal government funds and sets the monthly amount of SNAP benefits, states are responsible for administering programs in their state. Suspending SNAP benefits in this manner is both contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act. Where Congress has clearly spoken, providing that SNAP benefits should continue even during a government shutdown, USDA does not have the authority to say otherwise. The coalition will also be filing a temporary restraining order later today asking the court to immediately turn benefits back on.&nbsp;Joining&nbsp;Governor Kelly in filing this lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon,&nbsp;Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin. The Governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania have also joined.Information about federal shutdown impacts on DCF programs and services is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx/1/0101019a2c925b18-1a97ee00-5c46-46fa-81bf-8fdbbe95f1b6-000000/5VIAYM9XO3ktK7g_ze-kJeW4ZRwH1bkUQnl31aoZJFY=428">dcf.ks.gov.</a>

Kansas sues Trump Admin. for 'illegally suspending SNAP benefits'

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating and searching for a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred October 23 eat Dr. Glen Dey Park, located at 2801 N. Grove in Wichita. During a press conference on Tuesday, police announced&nbsp; Crime Stoppers is now offering a $5,000 reward in the case.&nbsp; Police also indicated they have only received three tips on the investigation since the crime occurred.

(Click below to watch the Tuesday police briefing on the shooting)

At approximately 7:03 p.m. an off-duty WPD detective working secondary employment at&nbsp; the park heard multiple gunshots from another area of the park. The detective immediately ran toward the scene and found 32-year-old Travon Stewart suffering from gunshot wounds.

The detective called for backup and emergency medical services, then began life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Stewart was transported to a local hospital in extremely critical condition and later died from his injuries.

Preliminary findings indicate that around 200 to 300 people were in attendance at the football games. Stewart was at the park selling concessions as a fundraiser for a football team not affiliated with the Wichita Junior Football League.

Homicide investigators responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses who remained in the area. Detectives believe this was a targeted shooting and not connected to the youth football games.

Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $5,00 reward for information leading to an arrest in the shooting.

Anyone who attended the games or may have information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at 316-268-4407.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761331970728.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation -Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation -Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating and searching for a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred October 23 eat Dr. Glen Dey Park, located at 2801 N. Grove in Wichita. During a press conference on Tuesday, police announced&nbsp; Crime Stoppers is now offering a $5,000 reward in the case.&nbsp; Police also indicated they have only received three tips on the investigation since the crime occurred.(Click below to watch the Tuesday police briefing on the shooting)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=280&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2252850385227575%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="395" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>At approximately 7:03 p.m. an off-duty WPD detective working secondary employment at&nbsp; the park heard multiple gunshots from another area of the park. The detective immediately ran toward the scene and found 32-year-old Travon Stewart suffering from gunshot wounds.The detective called for backup and emergency medical services, then began life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Stewart was transported to a local hospital in extremely critical condition and later died from his injuries.Preliminary findings indicate that around 200 to 300 people were in attendance at the football games. Stewart was at the park selling concessions as a fundraiser for a football team not affiliated with the Wichita Junior Football League.Homicide investigators responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses who remained in the area. Detectives believe this was a targeted shooting and not connected to the youth football games.Crime Stoppers is offering up to a $5,00 reward for information leading to an arrest in the shooting.Anyone who attended the games or may have information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at 316-268-4407.&nbsp;

Police: Few tips so far on fatal shooting at Kan. youth football game

RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Harrison Bensouda and Payton Roehrich were two of three individuals named Players of the Week by the Great American Conference on Tuesday. Bensouda earned Defender of the Week honors, while Roehrich was the Goalkeeper of the Week. It was the second time this year Roehrich earned the Goalkeeper of the Week award.

Bensouda had a strong all-around performance for the week, helping No. 5 ranked Fort Hays State remain unbeaten overall at 12-0-3 for the season. In a scoreless tie with Southern Nazarene, Bensouda had a critical team save late in the first half to keep the match scoreless. He played 87 minutes in the match, helping FHSU hold SNU to just four shots. Two days later in a 1-0 win over No. 17 ranked Rogers State, Bensouda played all 90 minutes and provided an assist on the game-winning goal by Elias Ovelar Semeniuk. He helped FHSU limit RSU to just six shots in the match, therefore giving FHSU a meager 5.0 shots allowed per match average for the week.

Roehrich pushed his individual shutout count to eight matches this season, tying the FHSU record for individual shutouts in a season. He made one critical save against Southern Nazarene in a scoreless draw and then did not have to record any saves in a 1-0 shutout of No. 17 ranked Rogers State. He and the FHSU defense allowed just 5.0 shots per match to the opposition.

FHSU Men's Soccer now has 10 player of the week honors from the conference office this season. Dimitry Tchantcheu (defender), Oliver Wright (defender), and Roehrich (goalkeeper) have all earned weekly honors twice this season. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk (offense), Juan Linares (offense), Bastian Carlman (offense), and Bensouda (defense) have all earned an honor once this year. The Tigers claimed nine of the 10 honors within the month of October.

Bensouda and Roehrich joined Carl Murch of Northeastern State (Offensive Player of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the conference office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761711024121.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsRUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – Harrison Bensouda and Payton Roehrich were two of three individuals named Players of the Week by the Great American Conference on Tuesday. Bensouda earned Defender of the Week honors, while Roehrich was the Goalkeeper of the Week. It was the second time this year Roehrich earned the Goalkeeper of the Week award.Bensouda had a strong all-around performance for the week, helping No. 5 ranked Fort Hays State remain unbeaten overall at 12-0-3 for the season. In a scoreless tie with Southern Nazarene, Bensouda had a critical team save late in the first half to keep the match scoreless. He played 87 minutes in the match, helping FHSU hold SNU to just four shots. Two days later in a 1-0 win over No. 17 ranked Rogers State, Bensouda played all 90 minutes and provided an assist on the game-winning goal by Elias Ovelar Semeniuk. He helped FHSU limit RSU to just six shots in the match, therefore giving FHSU a meager 5.0 shots allowed per match average for the week.Roehrich pushed his individual shutout count to eight matches this season, tying the FHSU record for individual shutouts in a season. He made one critical save against Southern Nazarene in a scoreless draw and then did not have to record any saves in a 1-0 shutout of No. 17 ranked Rogers State. He and the FHSU defense allowed just 5.0 shots per match to the opposition.FHSU Men's Soccer now has 10 player of the week honors from the conference office this season. Dimitry Tchantcheu (defender), Oliver Wright (defender), and Roehrich (goalkeeper) have all earned weekly honors twice this season. Elias Ovelar Semeniuk (offense), Juan Linares (offense), Bastian Carlman (offense), and Bensouda (defense) have all earned an honor once this year. The Tigers claimed nine of the 10 honors within the month of October.Bensouda and Roehrich joined Carl Murch of Northeastern State (Offensive Player of the Week) as the weekly honorees from the conference office.

⚽ FHSU's Bensouda and Roehrich named GAC Men’s Soccer Players of the Week

Robert Harold 'Bob' Reifschneider, 78, passed
away peacefully on October 25, 2025 at his home in La Crosse, KS. Bob was born
on June 13, 1947 in Great Bend, KS to parents Harold and Dorothy (Busch)
Reifschneider. Bob was a LaCrosse High School graduate. On July 12th 1969, he
married LaRee (Schultz) at St. Michael's Catholic Church in LaCrosse, KS.

Bob, referred to as 'DP' among his cattle hauler friends,
was an owner-operator truck driver, and worked with livestock all his life. He
was passionate about trucking.&nbsp; Over roughly 50 years on the road he
accumulated many miles and life-long friends.

He cherished his family and friends and enjoyed supporting
the community and businesses in town. He was a regular patron of the EZ-Mart,
meeting his friends and ‘amigos’ each morning. He also enjoyed playing the
lottery and visiting casinos. He was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church
and the Knights of Columbus.&nbsp;

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, parents, his
brother, Frank, and his niece, Lindsey, daughter of Tom and Lesa Reifschneider.

Survivors include his sons: Kevin Reifschneider (Melanie),
Mark Reifschneider (Jill), and David Reifschneider (Johnny); brothers: Paul
Reifschneider (Michelle), John Reifschneider (Debbie), and Tom Reifschneider
(Lesa); sister-in-law: Sharilyn Reifschneider; grandchildren: Katlyn
Reifschneider, Jack Reifschneider (Tyna), and Bo Reifschneider;
great-grandchildren: Elsie and Bennett; as well as numerous nieces, nephews,
and extended family members.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761671908987.jpeg" alt="Robert Harold 'Bob' Reifschneider" />
 <figcaption>Robert Harold 'Bob' Reifschneider</figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Harold 'Bob' Reifschneider, 78, passed
away peacefully on October 25, 2025 at his home in La Crosse, KS. Bob was born
on June 13, 1947 in Great Bend, KS to parents Harold and Dorothy (Busch)
Reifschneider. Bob was a LaCrosse High School graduate. On July 12th 1969, he
married LaRee (Schultz) at St. Michael's Catholic Church in LaCrosse, KS.Bob, referred to as 'DP' among his cattle hauler friends,
was an owner-operator truck driver, and worked with livestock all his life. He
was passionate about trucking.&nbsp; Over roughly 50 years on the road he
accumulated many miles and life-long friends.He cherished his family and friends and enjoyed supporting
the community and businesses in town. He was a regular patron of the EZ-Mart,
meeting his friends and ‘amigos’ each morning. He also enjoyed playing the
lottery and visiting casinos. He was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church
and the Knights of Columbus.&nbsp;Bob was preceded in death by his wife, parents, his
brother, Frank, and his niece, Lindsey, daughter of Tom and Lesa Reifschneider.Survivors include his sons: Kevin Reifschneider (Melanie),
Mark Reifschneider (Jill), and David Reifschneider (Johnny); brothers: Paul
Reifschneider (Michelle), John Reifschneider (Debbie), and Tom Reifschneider
(Lesa); sister-in-law: Sharilyn Reifschneider; grandchildren: Katlyn
Reifschneider, Jack Reifschneider (Tyna), and Bo Reifschneider;
great-grandchildren: Elsie and Bennett; as well as numerous nieces, nephews,
and extended family members.There will be visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
November 1, 2025 at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 918 Lincoln St. La Crosse,
KS 67548.&nbsp;A Mass of the Catholic Burial will be held 11:30 a.m.,
Saturday, November 1, 2025 at St. Michael's Catholic Church with Fr. Stephen
Dabanka officiating. Burial will follow at La Crosse Cemetery, with the family
hosting a luncheon afterward at the Parish Center.Memorials may be made to Rush County Memorial Hospital, 801
Locust, La Crosse, KS 67548 or Rush County EMT 119 West 9th La Crosse, KS 67548.Online condolences can be made at janousekfuneralhome.com.Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Janousek Funeral
Home, 719 Pine Street La Crosse, KS 67548, (785) 222-2517.