NEW YORK (AP) — A monthslong calm on Wall Street shattered Friday, and U.S. stocks tumbled after President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-china-cc47e258cfc6336dfddcc20fa67a3642">threatened to crank tariffs much higher</a>&nbsp;on China.

The S&amp;P 500 sank 2.7% in its worst day since April. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 878 points, or 1.9%, and the Nasdaq composite fell 3.6%.

Stocks had been heading for a slight gain in the morning, until&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump</a>&nbsp;took to his social media platform and said he’s considering “a massive increase of tariffs” on Chinese imports. He’s upset at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-earths-exports-trump-dad99d532f858f04d750d0b8c50e5ed6">restrictions China has placed on exports of its rare earths</a>, which are materials that are critical for the manufacturing of everything from consumer electronics to jet engines.

“We have been contacted by other Countries who are extremely angry at this great Trade hostility, which came out of nowhere,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He also said “now there seems to be no reason” to meet with China’s leader, Xi Jinping, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-tiktok-china-united-states-e6b6334aef2946b5b8c809be4240cad1">earlier agreeing to do so</a>&nbsp;as part of an upcoming trip to South Korea.

The ratchet higher in tensions between the world’s largest economies led to widespread drops across Wall Street, with roughly six out of every seven stocks within the S&amp;P 500 falling. Nearly everything weakened, from Big Tech companies like Nvidia and Apple to stocks of smaller companies looking to get past uncertainty about tariffs and trade.

The market may have been primed for a slide. U.S. stocks were already facing criticism that their prices had shot too high following the S&amp;P 500’s nearly relentless 35% run from a low in April. The index, which dictates the movements for many 401(k) accounts, is still near its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-gold-ai-yen-3b5d8a978d326c59cbf484a14868ce66">all-time high</a>&nbsp;set earlier in the week.

Critics say&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-market-rates-records-shutdown-earnings-ai-251fefd075ac658ce498c9d1953efc70">the market looks too expensive</a>&nbsp;after prices rose much faster than corporate profits. Worries are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ai-bubble-warnings-bank-of-england-imf-b15e54f6d06992371ee39b27f4e6da3a">particularly high about companies in the artificial-intelligence industry</a>, where pessimists see echoes of the 2000 dot-com bubble that imploded. For stocks to look less expensive, either their prices need to fall, or companies’ profits need to rise.

Levi Strauss dropped 12.6% for one of the market’s larger losses, even though it reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.

Its forecast for profit over the full year was also within range of Wall Street’s estimates, but the jeans and clothing company could simply be facing the challenge of heightened expectations after a big run. Its stock price came into the day with a surge of nearly 42% for the year so far.

All told, the S&amp;P 500 fell 182.60 points to 6,552.51. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 878.82 to 45,479.60, and the Nasdaq composite sank 820.20 to 22,204.43.

Some of Friday’s strongest action was in the oil market, where the price of a barrel of benchmark U.S. crude sank 4.2% to $58.90.

It fell as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-shelling-ceasefire-israel-c832ff32cf332805ffb50bffa35e8220">ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect</a>&nbsp;in Gaza. An end to the war could remove worries about disruptions to oil supplies, which had kept crude’s price higher than it otherwise would have been.

Losses accelerated following Trump’s tariff threat, which could gum up global trade and lead the economy to burn less fuel. Brent crude, the international standard, dropped 3.8% to $62.73 per barrel.

In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury sank to 4.05% from 4.14% late Thursday.

It had already been lower before Trump made his threats, as a report from the University of Michigan suggested that sentiment among U.S. consumers remains in the doldrums.

“Pocketbook issues like high prices and weakening job prospects remain at the forefront of consumers’ minds,” according to Joanne Hsu, director of the Surveys of Consumers. “At this time, consumers do not expect meaningful improvement in these factors.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-jobs-openings-unemployment-inflation-federal-reserve-60b8f481cdbc56f96829817a2992e508">job market has slowed so much</a>&nbsp;that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-powell-federal-reserve-jobs-da274909e44aed4ac4c78625db587026">Federal Reserve</a>&nbsp;cut its main interest rate last month for the first time this year. Fed officials have penciled in more cuts through next year to give the economy additional breathing room. But Chair Jerome Powell has also said they may change course&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-trump-tariffs-prices-consumer-0a10b8f245eb90115c84026d7061d2b0">if inflation stays high</a>. That’s because lower interest rates can push inflation even higher.

One potentially encouraging signal from the University of Michigan’s preliminary survey said consumers’ expectations for inflation in the coming year edged down to 4.6% from 4.7% the month before. While that’s still high, the direction of change could help the Fed and limit upward pressure on inflation.

In stock markets abroad, indexes fell across much of Europe and Asia.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 1.7%, and France’s CAC 40 dropped 1.5% for two of the bigger moves. But South Korea’s Kospi leaped 1.7% after trading reopened following a holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722962507580.png" alt="File photo fFoor of the New York Stock Exchange (AP Photo/Richard Drew)" />
 <figcaption>File photo fFoor of the New York Stock Exchange (AP Photo/Richard Drew)</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — A monthslong calm on Wall Street shattered Friday, and U.S. stocks tumbled after President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-china-cc47e258cfc6336dfddcc20fa67a3642">threatened to crank tariffs much higher</a>&nbsp;on China.The S&amp;P 500 sank 2.7% in its worst day since April. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 878 points, or 1.9%, and the Nasdaq composite fell 3.6%.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨Major New Statement from President Trump on China: <a href="https://t.co/qpAM0hkizx">https://t.co/qpAM0hkizx</a>&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1976664518911840469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Stocks had been heading for a slight gain in the morning, until&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Trump</a>&nbsp;took to his social media platform and said he’s considering “a massive increase of tariffs” on Chinese imports. He’s upset at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-earths-exports-trump-dad99d532f858f04d750d0b8c50e5ed6">restrictions China has placed on exports of its rare earths</a>, which are materials that are critical for the manufacturing of everything from consumer electronics to jet engines.“We have been contacted by other Countries who are extremely angry at this great Trade hostility, which came out of nowhere,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He also said “now there seems to be no reason” to meet with China’s leader, Xi Jinping, after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-tiktok-china-united-states-e6b6334aef2946b5b8c809be4240cad1">earlier agreeing to do so</a>&nbsp;as part of an upcoming trip to South Korea.The ratchet higher in tensions between the world’s largest economies led to widespread drops across Wall Street, with roughly six out of every seven stocks within the S&amp;P 500 falling. Nearly everything weakened, from Big Tech companies like Nvidia and Apple to stocks of smaller companies looking to get past uncertainty about tariffs and trade.The market may have been primed for a slide. U.S. stocks were already facing criticism that their prices had shot too high following the S&amp;P 500’s nearly relentless 35% run from a low in April. The index, which dictates the movements for many 401(k) accounts, is still near its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-gold-ai-yen-3b5d8a978d326c59cbf484a14868ce66">all-time high</a>&nbsp;set earlier in the week.Critics say&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-market-rates-records-shutdown-earnings-ai-251fefd075ac658ce498c9d1953efc70">the market looks too expensive</a>&nbsp;after prices rose much faster than corporate profits. Worries are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ai-bubble-warnings-bank-of-england-imf-b15e54f6d06992371ee39b27f4e6da3a">particularly high about companies in the artificial-intelligence industry</a>, where pessimists see echoes of the 2000 dot-com bubble that imploded. For stocks to look less expensive, either their prices need to fall, or companies’ profits need to rise.Levi Strauss dropped 12.6% for one of the market’s larger losses, even though it reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.Its forecast for profit over the full year was also within range of Wall Street’s estimates, but the jeans and clothing company could simply be facing the challenge of heightened expectations after a big run. Its stock price came into the day with a surge of nearly 42% for the year so far.All told, the S&amp;P 500 fell 182.60 points to 6,552.51. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 878.82 to 45,479.60, and the Nasdaq composite sank 820.20 to 22,204.43.Some of Friday’s strongest action was in the oil market, where the price of a barrel of benchmark U.S. crude sank 4.2% to $58.90.It fell as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-shelling-ceasefire-israel-c832ff32cf332805ffb50bffa35e8220">ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect</a>&nbsp;in Gaza. An end to the war could remove worries about disruptions to oil supplies, which had kept crude’s price higher than it otherwise would have been.Losses accelerated following Trump’s tariff threat, which could gum up global trade and lead the economy to burn less fuel. Brent crude, the international standard, dropped 3.8% to $62.73 per barrel.In the bond market, the yield on the 10-year Treasury sank to 4.05% from 4.14% late Thursday.It had already been lower before Trump made his threats, as a report from the University of Michigan suggested that sentiment among U.S. consumers remains in the doldrums.“Pocketbook issues like high prices and weakening job prospects remain at the forefront of consumers’ minds,” according to Joanne Hsu, director of the Surveys of Consumers. “At this time, consumers do not expect meaningful improvement in these factors.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-jobs-openings-unemployment-inflation-federal-reserve-60b8f481cdbc56f96829817a2992e508">job market has slowed so much</a>&nbsp;that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-powell-federal-reserve-jobs-da274909e44aed4ac4c78625db587026">Federal Reserve</a>&nbsp;cut its main interest rate last month for the first time this year. Fed officials have penciled in more cuts through next year to give the economy additional breathing room. But Chair Jerome Powell has also said they may change course&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-trump-tariffs-prices-consumer-0a10b8f245eb90115c84026d7061d2b0">if inflation stays high</a>. That’s because lower interest rates can push inflation even higher.One potentially encouraging signal from the University of Michigan’s preliminary survey said consumers’ expectations for inflation in the coming year edged down to 4.6% from 4.7% the month before. While that’s still high, the direction of change could help the Fed and limit upward pressure on inflation.In stock markets abroad, indexes fell across much of Europe and Asia.Hong Kong’s Hang Seng fell 1.7%, and France’s CAC 40 dropped 1.5% for two of the bigger moves. But South Korea’s Kospi leaped 1.7% after trading reopened following a holiday.___AP Writer Teresa Cerojano contributed.

Wall Street drops to its worst day since April 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House budget office said Friday that mass firings of federal workers have started in an attempt to exert more pressure on Democratic lawmakers in the ongoing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-trump-health-care-54b2a584657a0b619bc8326708a05604">government shutdown</a>.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-doge-russell-vought-project-2025-f403174299933b7e3a3b6ebd779c146c">Russ Vought</a>, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, said on the social media site X that the “RIFs have begun,” referring to reduction-in-force plans aimed at reducing the size of the federal government.

A spokesperson for the budget office said the reductions are “substantial” but did not offer more immediate details.

The Education Department is among the agencies hit by new layoffs, a department spokesperson said Friday without providing more details. The department had about 4,100 employees when Trump took office in January, but its workforce was nearly halved amid mass layoffs in the Republican administration’s first months. At the start of the shutdown, it had about 2,500 employees.

The White House previewed that it would pursue the aggressive layoff tactic shortly before the government shutdown began on Oct. 1, telling all federal agencies to submit their reduction-in-force plans to the budget office for its review. It said reduction-in-force plans could apply for federal programs whose funding would lapse in a government shutdown, are otherwise not funded and are “not consistent with the President’s priorities.”

This goes far beyond what usually happens in a government shutdown, which is that federal workers are furloughed but restored to their jobs once the shutdown ends.

Democrats have tried to call the administration’s bluff, arguing the firings could be illegal, and seemed bolstered by the fact the White House had yet to carry out the firings.

But President Donald Trump had said earlier this week that he would soon have more information about how many&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-government-shutdown-firings-layoffs-vought-1fd57313272ec4db5984f653b095be33">federal jobs</a>&nbsp;would be eliminated.

“I’ll be able to tell you that in four or five days if this keeps going on,” he said Tuesday in the Oval Office as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/canada-trump-carney-white-house-59b735b719247c7063777c1edcb10328">he met with Canada's prime minister</a>, Mark Carney. “If this keeps going on, it’ll be substantial, and a lot of those jobs will never come back.”

Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-johnson-government-shutdown-grijalva-526647b57faa2710382674646dfd2b37">the halls of the Capitol were quiet</a>&nbsp;on Friday, then 10th day of the shutdown, with both the House and the Senate out of Washington and both sides digging in for a protracted shutdown fight. Senate Republicans have tried repeatedly to cajole Democratic holdouts to vote for a stopgap bill to reopen the government, but Democrats have refused as they hold out for a firm commitment to extend health care benefits.

There was no sign that the top Democratic and Republican Senate leaders were even talking about a way to solve the impasse. Instead, Senate Majority Leader John Thune continued to try to peel away centrist Democrats who may be willing to cross party lines as the shutdown pain dragged on.

“It’s time for them to get a backbone,” Thune, a South Dakota Republican, said during a news conference.

AP Education Writer Collin Binkley contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738891651773.png" alt="File photo-Kansas U.S. Marshall Roger Marshall and&nbsp;Russ Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget during a meeting earlier this year" />
 <figcaption>File photo-Kansas U.S. Marshall Roger Marshall and&nbsp;Russ Vought, the director of the Office of Management and Budget during a meeting earlier this year</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House budget office said Friday that mass firings of federal workers have started in an attempt to exert more pressure on Democratic lawmakers in the ongoing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-congress-trump-health-care-54b2a584657a0b619bc8326708a05604">government shutdown</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The RIFs have begun.&mdash; Russ Vought (@russvought) <a href="https://twitter.com/russvought/status/1976686105199268177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on Tuesday: “If this keeps going on, it’ll be substantial — and a lot of those jobs will never come back.”<a href="https://t.co/O4Uj4BNo0l">pic.twitter.com/O4Uj4BNo0l</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hol5vCkRgP">https://t.co/Hol5vCkRgP</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1976692607750160778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-doge-russell-vought-project-2025-f403174299933b7e3a3b6ebd779c146c">Russ Vought</a>, the director of the Office of Management and Budget, said on the social media site X that the “RIFs have begun,” referring to reduction-in-force plans aimed at reducing the size of the federal government.A spokesperson for the budget office said the reductions are “substantial” but did not offer more immediate details.The Education Department is among the agencies hit by new layoffs, a department spokesperson said Friday without providing more details. The department had about 4,100 employees when Trump took office in January, but its workforce was nearly halved amid mass layoffs in the Republican administration’s first months. At the start of the shutdown, it had about 2,500 employees.The White House previewed that it would pursue the aggressive layoff tactic shortly before the government shutdown began on Oct. 1, telling all federal agencies to submit their reduction-in-force plans to the budget office for its review. It said reduction-in-force plans could apply for federal programs whose funding would lapse in a government shutdown, are otherwise not funded and are “not consistent with the President’s priorities.”This goes far beyond what usually happens in a government shutdown, which is that federal workers are furloughed but restored to their jobs once the shutdown ends.Democrats have tried to call the administration’s bluff, arguing the firings could be illegal, and seemed bolstered by the fact the White House had yet to carry out the firings.But President Donald Trump had said earlier this week that he would soon have more information about how many&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-government-shutdown-firings-layoffs-vought-1fd57313272ec4db5984f653b095be33">federal jobs</a>&nbsp;would be eliminated.“I’ll be able to tell you that in four or five days if this keeps going on,” he said Tuesday in the Oval Office as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/canada-trump-carney-white-house-59b735b719247c7063777c1edcb10328">he met with Canada's prime minister</a>, Mark Carney. “If this keeps going on, it’ll be substantial, and a lot of those jobs will never come back.”Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-speaker-johnson-government-shutdown-grijalva-526647b57faa2710382674646dfd2b37">the halls of the Capitol were quiet</a>&nbsp;on Friday, then 10th day of the shutdown, with both the House and the Senate out of Washington and both sides digging in for a protracted shutdown fight. Senate Republicans have tried repeatedly to cajole Democratic holdouts to vote for a stopgap bill to reopen the government, but Democrats have refused as they hold out for a firm commitment to extend health care benefits.There was no sign that the top Democratic and Republican Senate leaders were even talking about a way to solve the impasse. Instead, Senate Majority Leader John Thune continued to try to peel away centrist Democrats who may be willing to cross party lines as the shutdown pain dragged on.“It’s time for them to get a backbone,” Thune, a South Dakota Republican, said during a news conference.___AP Education Writer Collin Binkley contributed to this report.

Government shutdown: Mass firings of federal workers begins

The Heartland Community Foundation is excited to host the second annual Give Fest — communitywide giving day — on Friday, October 10 in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties! Get ready to experience a day filled with philanthropy, community spirit, and Oktoberfest-themed fun. With up to 100% of donations matched by the Heartland Community Foundation, this is a powerful opportunity to maximize your impact while supporting your favorite local nonprofits.

During the 24-hour giving period, all donations made to participating nonprofits will be matched from a $150,000 match pool, with $50,000 designated for each county. These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation, ensuring a stable financial future for the organization, while the match dollars are available for immediate use, providing vital, immediate support.

With 58 participating organizations, there’s a cause that will speak to everyone’s unique charitable passion. Whether your interests lie in education or healthcare, first responders or food insecurity, and many more, there is a nonprofit that aligns with the causes that matter most to you.

&nbsp; To give even more people the chance to give, early-bird giving&nbsp;began online Oct. 1, at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.heartlandgivefest.org/">www.HeartlandGiveFest.org</a>&nbsp;and continues&nbsp;through 11:59 p.m., Oct. 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nonprofits will share information with visitors, and attendees can enjoy Oktoberfest food, drinks, and entertainment while connecting with local organizations and learning more about the causes they can support.

Returning this year, nonprofits will get to compete in a lively cornhole challenge for a chance to win up to $400 in bonus match dollars for their organization. Attendees can also take part in the Nonprofit Passport activity: visit nonprofit tables (8 in Ellis County, 6 in Rooks and Trego counties) to be entered to win a $100 Visa gift card for yourself and $100 in bonus match dollars for your favorite organization. Come cheer on your favorite nonprofits and join in the fun! 

In a heartwarming effort to inspire the next generation of givers, Heartland Community Foundation is proud to bring back the 5th Grade Give Bucks initiative. Every 5th grader in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties will once again receive funds to donate to a local nonprofit of their choice. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, Ellis County students will each receive $15, while Rooks and Trego County students will each receive $10. On October 10, students will visit the Give Fest events to meet nonprofits throughout the day, learn about their missions, and choose where to donate their Give Bucks. This initiative teaches young people firsthand the joy and power of philanthropy.

This is an opportunity to come together and make a difference. In 2024, Give Fest raised over $240,000 in donations, and with $160,000 in matching funds, more than $400,000 went directly to strengthen local nonprofits.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114309523.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Heartland Community FoundationThe Heartland Community Foundation is excited to host the second annual Give Fest — communitywide giving day — on Friday, October 10 in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties! Get ready to experience a day filled with philanthropy, community spirit, and Oktoberfest-themed fun. With up to 100% of donations matched by the Heartland Community Foundation, this is a powerful opportunity to maximize your impact while supporting your favorite local nonprofits.During the 24-hour giving period, all donations made to participating nonprofits will be matched from a $150,000 match pool, with $50,000 designated for each county. These donations go directly to the nonprofit's endowed fund at the Heartland Community Foundation, ensuring a stable financial future for the organization, while the match dollars are available for immediate use, providing vital, immediate support.With 58 participating organizations, there’s a cause that will speak to everyone’s unique charitable passion. Whether your interests lie in education or healthcare, first responders or food insecurity, and many more, there is a nonprofit that aligns with the causes that matter most to you.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114425724.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114470948.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760114506124.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; To give even more people the chance to give, early-bird giving&nbsp;began online Oct. 1, at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.heartlandgivefest.org/">www.HeartlandGiveFest.org</a>&nbsp;and continues&nbsp;through 11:59 p.m., Oct. 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nonprofits will share information with visitors, and attendees can enjoy Oktoberfest food, drinks, and entertainment while connecting with local organizations and learning more about the causes they can support.Returning this year, nonprofits will get to compete in a lively cornhole challenge for a chance to win up to $400 in bonus match dollars for their organization. Attendees can also take part in the Nonprofit Passport activity: visit nonprofit tables (8 in Ellis County, 6 in Rooks and Trego counties) to be entered to win a $100 Visa gift card for yourself and $100 in bonus match dollars for your favorite organization. Come cheer on your favorite nonprofits and join in the fun! In a heartwarming effort to inspire the next generation of givers, Heartland Community Foundation is proud to bring back the 5th Grade Give Bucks initiative. Every 5th grader in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego counties will once again receive funds to donate to a local nonprofit of their choice. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, Ellis County students will each receive $15, while Rooks and Trego County students will each receive $10. On October 10, students will visit the Give Fest events to meet nonprofits throughout the day, learn about their missions, and choose where to donate their Give Bucks. This initiative teaches young people firsthand the joy and power of philanthropy.This is an opportunity to come together and make a difference. In 2024, Give Fest raised over $240,000 in donations, and with $160,000 in matching funds, more than $400,000 went directly to strengthen local nonprofits.&nbsp;

Heartland Community Foundation Give Fest is today in Ellis, Rooks, Trego counties

OSLO, Norway (AP) — Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday, winning recognition as a woman “who keeps the flame of democracy burning amid a growing darkness.”

The former opposition presidential candidate was lauded for being a “key, unifying figure” in the once deeply divided opposition to President Nicolás Maduro’s government, said Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee.

“In the past year, Ms. Machado has been forced to live in hiding,” Watne Frydnes said. Despite serious threats against her life, she has remained in the country, a choice that has inspired millions. When authoritarians seize power, it is crucial to recognize courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist.”

He told the AP that the committee was able to reach Machado just before the announcement and “it came as a surprise.”

Machado’s ally, Edmundo González, who lives in exile in Spain, posted a short video of himself speaking by phone with Machado.

“I am in shock,” she said, adding, “I cannot believe it.”

González celebrated Machado’s Nobel win in a post on X, calling it a “very well-deserved recognition for the long fight of a woman and of a whole people for our freedom and democracy.”

Maduro’s government has routinely targeted its real or perceived opponents.

Machado, who turned 58 this week, was set to run against Maduro, but the government disqualified her. González, who had never run for office before, took her place. The lead-up to the election saw widespread repression, including disqualifications, arrests and human rights violations.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-election-maduro-opposition-human-rights-abuses-dd6d0b103adbf88f00fe60b0d781a873">crackdown on dissent only increased</a>&nbsp;after the country’s National Electoral Council, which is stacked with Maduro loyalists, declared him the winner despite credible evidence to the contrary.

The election results announced by the Electoral Council sparked protests across the country to which the government responded with force that ended with more than 20 people dead. They also prompted an end to diplomatic relations between Venezuela and various foreign countries, including Argentina.

Machado went into hiding and has not been seen in public since January. A Venezuelan court issued an arrest warrant for González over the publication of election results. He went into exile in Spain and was granted asylum.

Before dawn in Caracas, with few vehicles out yet on the Venezuelan capital’s usually crowded streets, some people heading to work expressed disbelief at the news of Machado’s win.

“I don’t know what can be done to improve the situation, but she deserves it,” said Sandra Martínez, 32, as she waited at a bus stop. “She’s a great woman.”

Support for Machado and the opposition in general has decreased since the July 2024 election — particularly since January, when Maduro was sworn in for a third six-year term and disappointment set in.

Last year, Machado and González were awarded the European Union’s top human rights honor, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eu-venezuela-opposition-human-rights-prize-sakharov-47257f5b05716e90c3eabdde3a1f17e6">Sakharov Prize</a>.

Machado becomes the 20th woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, of the 112 individuals who have been honored.

Speculation about Trump’s Nobel chances

There had been persistent speculation ahead of the announcement about the possibility of the prize going to U.S. President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-misses-out-on-nobel-peace-prize-729973788d8953da9af1cbc136232e96">Donald Trump</a>, fueled in part by the president himself and amplified by this week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-hostages-trump-peace-plan-e3d0ce091be56cc29207e566ff1603af">approval of his plan</a>&nbsp;for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

Asked about lobbying for and by Trump, Watne Frydnes said: “I think this committee has seen any type of campaign, media attention. We receive thousands and thousands of letters every year of people wanting to say what for them leads to peace.

“This committee sits in a room filled with the portraits of all laureates, and that room is filled with both courage and integrity. So we base only our decision on the work and the will of Alfred Nobel.”

White House spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a post on X Friday morning that “President Trump will continue making peace deals around the world, ending wars, and saving lives.” He added that “the Nobel Committee proved they place politics over peace.”

Last year’s award went to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norway-nobel-japan-peace-prize-nuclear-9f39bcd5d6035fb1e75ac2030cf5c009">Nihon Hidankyo</a>, a grassroots movement of Japanese atomic bombing survivors who have worked for decades to maintain a taboo around the use of nuclear weapons.

The peace prize is the only one of the annual&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-announcements-peace-literature-medicine-cd572ef1c31ce39e3fa304468d445443">Nobel prizes</a>&nbsp;to be awarded in Oslo, Norway.

Four of the other prizes have already been awarded in the Swedish capital, Stockholm this week — in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-medicine-a68cf8a3b930570630168a949d277cde">medicine</a>&nbsp;on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-physics-e74ee2acf652259cf268cc1d48873e14">physics</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-chemistry-87dcb74eb01e3d5ba8efc32832e51ef6">chemistry</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-literature-25f9886d2c35dabfc6ab7936a8a159c0">literature</a>&nbsp;on Thursday. The winner of the prize in economics will be announced on Monday.

Garcia Cano reported from Mexico City and Moulson from Berlin. Jorge Rueda contributed from Caracas, Venezuela and Mike Corder from The Hague, Netherlands.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760094995508.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>OSLO, Norway (AP) — Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize on Friday, winning recognition as a woman “who keeps the flame of democracy burning amid a growing darkness.”The former opposition presidential candidate was lauded for being a “key, unifying figure” in the once deeply divided opposition to President Nicolás Maduro’s government, said Jørgen Watne Frydnes, chair of the Norwegian Nobel committee.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump will continue making peace deals, ending wars, and saving lives. He has the heart of a humanitarian, and there will never be anyone like him who can move mountains with the sheer force of his will. The Nobel Committee proved they place politics over peace. <a href="https://t.co/dwCEWjE0GE">https://t.co/dwCEWjE0GE</a>&mdash; Steven Cheung (@StevenCheung47) <a href="https://twitter.com/StevenCheung47/status/1976601157041856756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on the Nobel Peace Prize: &quot;I&#39;ve stopped eight wars, so that&#39;s never happened before — but they&#39;ll have to do what they do. Whatever they do is fine. I know this: I didn&#39;t do it for that, I did it because I saved a lot of lives.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/TsfLdgmQXD">pic.twitter.com/TsfLdgmQXD</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1976370711750221828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“In the past year, Ms. Machado has been forced to live in hiding,” Watne Frydnes said. Despite serious threats against her life, she has remained in the country, a choice that has inspired millions. When authoritarians seize power, it is crucial to recognize courageous defenders of freedom who rise and resist.”He told the AP that the committee was able to reach Machado just before the announcement and “it came as a surprise.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“Oh my god… I have no words.” Listen to the emotional moment this year’s laureate Maria Corina Machado finds out she has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Kristian Berg Harpviken, Director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute, shared the news with her directly before it was… <a href="https://t.co/OCUpNz752k">pic.twitter.com/OCUpNz752k</a>&mdash; The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) <a href="https://twitter.com/NobelPrize/status/1976596971084247228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><h2>Exiled opposition candidate celebrates</h2>Machado’s ally, Edmundo González, who lives in exile in Spain, posted a short video of himself speaking by phone with Machado.“I am in shock,” she said, adding, “I cannot believe it.”González celebrated Machado’s Nobel win in a post on X, calling it a “very well-deserved recognition for the long fight of a woman and of a whole people for our freedom and democracy.”Maduro’s government has routinely targeted its real or perceived opponents.Machado, who turned 58 this week, was set to run against Maduro, but the government disqualified her. González, who had never run for office before, took her place. The lead-up to the election saw widespread repression, including disqualifications, arrests and human rights violations.<h2>Crackdown on dissent</h2>The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-election-maduro-opposition-human-rights-abuses-dd6d0b103adbf88f00fe60b0d781a873">crackdown on dissent only increased</a>&nbsp;after the country’s National Electoral Council, which is stacked with Maduro loyalists, declared him the winner despite credible evidence to the contrary.The election results announced by the Electoral Council sparked protests across the country to which the government responded with force that ended with more than 20 people dead. They also prompted an end to diplomatic relations between Venezuela and various foreign countries, including Argentina.Machado went into hiding and has not been seen in public since January. A Venezuelan court issued an arrest warrant for González over the publication of election results. He went into exile in Spain and was granted asylum.Before dawn in Caracas, with few vehicles out yet on the Venezuelan capital’s usually crowded streets, some people heading to work expressed disbelief at the news of Machado’s win.“I don’t know what can be done to improve the situation, but she deserves it,” said Sandra Martínez, 32, as she waited at a bus stop. “She’s a great woman.”Support for Machado and the opposition in general has decreased since the July 2024 election — particularly since January, when Maduro was sworn in for a third six-year term and disappointment set in.Last year, Machado and González were awarded the European Union’s top human rights honor, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eu-venezuela-opposition-human-rights-prize-sakharov-47257f5b05716e90c3eabdde3a1f17e6">Sakharov Prize</a>.Machado becomes the 20th woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, of the 112 individuals who have been honored.<h2>Speculation about Trump’s Nobel chances</h2>There had been persistent speculation ahead of the announcement about the possibility of the prize going to U.S. President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-misses-out-on-nobel-peace-prize-729973788d8953da9af1cbc136232e96">Donald Trump</a>, fueled in part by the president himself and amplified by this week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-hostages-trump-peace-plan-e3d0ce091be56cc29207e566ff1603af">approval of his plan</a>&nbsp;for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.Asked about lobbying for and by Trump, Watne Frydnes said: “I think this committee has seen any type of campaign, media attention. We receive thousands and thousands of letters every year of people wanting to say what for them leads to peace.“This committee sits in a room filled with the portraits of all laureates, and that room is filled with both courage and integrity. So we base only our decision on the work and the will of Alfred Nobel.”White House spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a post on X Friday morning that “President Trump will continue making peace deals around the world, ending wars, and saving lives.” He added that “the Nobel Committee proved they place politics over peace.”Last year’s award went to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norway-nobel-japan-peace-prize-nuclear-9f39bcd5d6035fb1e75ac2030cf5c009">Nihon Hidankyo</a>, a grassroots movement of Japanese atomic bombing survivors who have worked for decades to maintain a taboo around the use of nuclear weapons.The peace prize is the only one of the annual&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-announcements-peace-literature-medicine-cd572ef1c31ce39e3fa304468d445443">Nobel prizes</a>&nbsp;to be awarded in Oslo, Norway.Four of the other prizes have already been awarded in the Swedish capital, Stockholm this week — in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-medicine-a68cf8a3b930570630168a949d277cde">medicine</a>&nbsp;on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-physics-e74ee2acf652259cf268cc1d48873e14">physics</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-chemistry-87dcb74eb01e3d5ba8efc32832e51ef6">chemistry</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nobel-prize-literature-25f9886d2c35dabfc6ab7936a8a159c0">literature</a>&nbsp;on Thursday. The winner of the prize in economics will be announced on Monday.___Garcia Cano reported from Mexico City and Moulson from Berlin. Jorge Rueda contributed from Caracas, Venezuela and Mike Corder from The Hague, Netherlands.

Who won? White House responds to Nobel Peace Prize announcement

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

Friday, October 10
 KKQY: Trego FB at
Ness City, 6:00pm &nbsp;KFIX: Hays High FB at Dodge City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Oakley, 6:30pm

Saturday, October 11
 KAYS: Kansas FB at
Texas Tech, 5:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Oklahoma, 6:00pm

Sunday, October 12
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Detroit Lions, 6:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Friday, October 10
 KKQY: Trego FB at
Ness City, 6:00pm &nbsp;KFIX: Hays High FB at Dodge City, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Oakley, 6:30pmSaturday, October 11
 KAYS: Kansas FB at
Texas Tech, 5:00pm
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Oklahoma, 6:00pmSunday, October 12
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB vs. Detroit Lions, 6:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/thomas-beaumont">THOMAS BEAUMONT</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/laura-ungar">LAURA UNGAR</a> Associated Press

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tylenol-cause-autism-trump-kennedy-0847ee76eedecbd5e9baa6888b567d66">reasserted the unproven link</a>&nbsp;between the pain reliever Tylenol and autism, and suggested people who opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/autism-trump-kennedy-tylenol-acetaminophen-7ebaf91e80b93f605899cefd66ac0eb2">the theory</a>&nbsp;were motivated by hatred for President Donald Trump.

During a meeting with Trump and the Cabinet, Kennedy reiterated the connection, even while noting there was no medical proof to substantiate the claim. He also mistakenly described a pregnant woman’s anatomy and linked autism to circumcision.

“Anybody who takes the stuff during pregnancy unless they have to is, is irresponsible,” Kennedy told Trump and fellow Cabinet members. “It is not proof. We’re doing the studies to make the proof.”

Kennedy has long espoused unconventional beliefs about public health, which have prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/doctor-expresses-concern-over-trump-administrations-autism-initiatives-a86baea3efd845a8860ad89f64191ecd">concern among medical experts</a>&nbsp;that, as health secretary,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cdc-advisers-vaccines-hepatitis-b-covid19-a1fb61ef7e29d93d2828618d890cceb3">he could upend</a>&nbsp;the country’s evidence-based health policies.

Kennedy noted during the meeting that he had seen a TikTok video on Thursday, which he said featured a pregnant woman “gobbling Tylenol” and cursing Trump. “The level of Trump derangement syndrome has now left the political landscape and now in the realm of pathology,” he said. Kennedy also said the woman was taking Tylenol “with a baby in her placenta.”

A fetus develops in the uterus, not the placenta. The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy and provides oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the growing fetus.

Kennedy’s statement came two weeks after he stood with Trump in the White House as the president used his office to promote unproven and, in some cases, discredited ties between Tylenol, vaccines and autism.

Kennedy also said Thursday that infant boys who are circumcised have double the rate of autism because they are given Tylenol after the procedure.

This claim seems to refer to a study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine from 2015, which looked at ritual circumcision and the risk of autism spectrum disorder in boys under the age of 10 in Denmark.

It found that those who had undergone the procedure, which involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis, were more likely to develop autism than other boys in the study. Researchers suggested a potential link might be due to the pain of the procedure. Researchers noted that they had no data on painkillers or anesthetics used, and thus couldn’t address whether Tylenol was linked to autism.

Other researchers pointed out that the Denmark study looked at correlation, not causation. They also point to other studies that found no evidence to support a link between circumcision and autism.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/thomas-beaumont">THOMAS BEAUMONT</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/laura-ungar">LAURA UNGAR</a> Associated PressHealth Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tylenol-cause-autism-trump-kennedy-0847ee76eedecbd5e9baa6888b567d66">reasserted the unproven link</a>&nbsp;between the pain reliever Tylenol and autism, and suggested people who opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/autism-trump-kennedy-tylenol-acetaminophen-7ebaf91e80b93f605899cefd66ac0eb2">the theory</a>&nbsp;were motivated by hatred for President Donald Trump.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">RFK: &quot;There&#39;s two studies which show children who are circumcised early have double the rate of autism. It&#39;s highly likely because they were given Tylenol.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HW8Q0KRuED">pic.twitter.com/HW8Q0KRuED</a>&mdash; The Bulwark (@BulwarkOnline) <a href="https://twitter.com/BulwarkOnline/status/1976332314159501389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>During a meeting with Trump and the Cabinet, Kennedy reiterated the connection, even while noting there was no medical proof to substantiate the claim. He also mistakenly described a pregnant woman’s anatomy and linked autism to circumcision.“Anybody who takes the stuff during pregnancy unless they have to is, is irresponsible,” Kennedy told Trump and fellow Cabinet members. “It is not proof. We’re doing the studies to make the proof.”Kennedy has long espoused unconventional beliefs about public health, which have prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/doctor-expresses-concern-over-trump-administrations-autism-initiatives-a86baea3efd845a8860ad89f64191ecd">concern among medical experts</a>&nbsp;that, as health secretary,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cdc-advisers-vaccines-hepatitis-b-covid19-a1fb61ef7e29d93d2828618d890cceb3">he could upend</a>&nbsp;the country’s evidence-based health policies.Kennedy noted during the meeting that he had seen a TikTok video on Thursday, which he said featured a pregnant woman “gobbling Tylenol” and cursing Trump. “The level of Trump derangement syndrome has now left the political landscape and now in the realm of pathology,” he said. Kennedy also said the woman was taking Tylenol “with a baby in her placenta.”A fetus develops in the uterus, not the placenta. The placenta is a temporary organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy and provides oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the growing fetus.Kennedy’s statement came two weeks after he stood with Trump in the White House as the president used his office to promote unproven and, in some cases, discredited ties between Tylenol, vaccines and autism.Kennedy also said Thursday that infant boys who are circumcised have double the rate of autism because they are given Tylenol after the procedure.This claim seems to refer to a study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine from 2015, which looked at ritual circumcision and the risk of autism spectrum disorder in boys under the age of 10 in Denmark.It found that those who had undergone the procedure, which involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis, were more likely to develop autism than other boys in the study. Researchers suggested a potential link might be due to the pain of the procedure. Researchers noted that they had no data on painkillers or anesthetics used, and thus couldn’t address whether Tylenol was linked to autism.Other researchers pointed out that the Denmark study looked at correlation, not causation. They also point to other studies that found no evidence to support a link between circumcision and autism.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

🎥Kennedy cites a controversial link between circumcision and autism

CHICAGO (AP) — Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the chaplain for the men’s basketball team at Loyola Chicago who became a beloved international celebrity during the school’s fairy-tale run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament in 2018, has died, the university announced Thursday night. She was 106.

Health issues caused Sister Jean to step down from her role with the university in August, though the school said she remained as an adviser in the final months of her life.

“In many roles at Loyola over the course of more than 60 years, Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff,” Loyola President Mark C. Reed said.

“While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy,” Reed said. ”Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community and her spirit abides in thousands of lives. In her honor, we can aspire to share with others the love and compassion Sister Jean shared with us.”

Sister Jean — born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, then taking the name Sister Jean Dolores in 1937 — became one of the most talked-about personalities during that 2018 NCAA Tournament. She did countless interviews and even was celebrated with a bobblehead in her likeness.

She published a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-parasports-jean-dolores-schmidt-chicago-06b8d438408e8e6abe08b395e3cd13d7">memoir</a>&nbsp;in 2023, “Wake Up with Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First 100 Years,” sharing lessons she’d learned throughout her life and offering spiritual advice.

The basketball teams at Loyola already had learned many of those lessons. And when that run in 2018 ended with a 69-57 loss to Michigan in the national semifinals, players received immediate consolation from their biggest fan.

“Sister Jean just said it was a great season,” forward Aundre Jackson said after the loss. “She was so happy to be on this run with us and we should keep our heads high and be happy with what we accomplished.”

The players on that team, some of them 80 years younger than Sister Jean, made no secret of what she meant to them, to the program and to the university. And she was not just there to be there, either. The Ramblers insisted she was a real part of their success.

“Sister Jean, she has meant so much to me personally and obviously the team,” Loyola’s Donte Ingram said after hitting one of the biggest shots in school history, a 3-pointer that lifted the team past Miami 64-62 in the first round of the 2018 tournament.

“She is there before every game. She’s saying a prayer before every game. After the game, she sends a general email to the team. And then at the end of the email, it’ll be individualized: ‘Hey, Donte, you did this, you rebounded well tonight. Even though they were out there to get you, you still came through for the team.’ She’s just so special, her spirit. She’s just so bright, and she means so much to the city of Chicago and Loyola obviously and the team.”

Sister Jean’s news conference at that NCAA Tournament, she was told, had more journalists than Tom Brady drew at the Super Bowl. Her likeness appeared on everything from socks to a Lego statue at her gallery in Loyola’s art museum. She saw the attention as a holy opportunity to tell her story and share what she’s learned.

“I love life so much and enjoy being with young people,” Sister Jean told The Associated Press in 2023. “They’re the ones who keep me going because they bring such joy into my life -- and they keep you updated on what’s happening in their world.”

Loyola, which helped break down racial barriers by winning the 1963 national championship with four Black starters, had not played in the tournament since a Sweet 16 loss to Georgetown in 1985. But with a then-98-year-old nun providing a spiritual lift, the Ramblers captured the nation’s imagination.

“Prayers definitely mean a little bit extra when she prays for us,” Loyola guard Clayton Custer said during the tournament.

Sister Jean lived in the dorms on and off beginning in 1978, helping her maintain a strong relationship with the students. It was not unusual for her to sit with them in the student center during lunch, getting to know them and offer guidance. She led prayer groups in residence halls and established a program to connect students with residents at a retirement community.

Born in San Francisco in 1919, Sister Jean grew up in a devoutly Catholic family. She witnessed the impact of the Great Depression, World War II and the building of the Golden Gate Bridge, which she recalls crossing on foot when it opened in 1937.

Her religious calling, she said, came at the age of 8. She was in third grade when she met a kind, joyful teacher who belonged to the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Brimming with admiration, she would pray every day: “Dear God, help me understand what I should do, but please tell me I should become a BVM sister,” she recounted in her memoir.

“I guess God listened to me on that one,” she wrote.

She followed her calling to the order’s motherhouse in Dubuque, Iowa, where she made her vows. She went on to teach at Catholic schools in Chicago and Southern California, where she also coached girls’ basketball, before she ended at Mundelein College — on the Chicago lakefront — in the 1960s. The school became affiliated with Loyola in 1991, and Sister Jean was hired to help students with the transition.

In 1994, she was asked to help student basketball players boost their grades — “the booster shooter” she called herself, and later that year she was named chaplain of the men’s basketball team. The role, she wrote in her memoir, became “the most transformational and transcendent position” of her life.

“Sports are very important because they help develop life skills,” she said. “And during those life skills, you’re also talking about faith and purpose.”

Her celebrity continued to grow and her life continued to be celebrated in her final years. At 100, Sister Jean received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis. On her 103rd birthday, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker was among the political officials dedicating the day in her honor. On her 105th birthday, Sister Jean received a proclamation from President Joe Biden — who had sent her flowers on at least one previous occasion.

Biden’s message, in part, told Sister Jean, “You have shown us all that yours is a life well lived.”

The university said Sister Jean is survived by her sister-in-law, Jeanne Tidwell, and her niece, Jan Schmidt.

CHICAGO (AP) — Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the chaplain for the men’s basketball team at Loyola Chicago who became a beloved international celebrity during the school’s fairy-tale run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament in 2018, has died, the university announced Thursday night. She was 106.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Loyola University Chicago is greatly saddened to confirm the death of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM. This is a tremendous loss of someone who touched the lives of so many people. We appreciate everyone’s thoughts &amp; prayers during this difficult time. Details to follow. <a href="https://t.co/zPiMY1MsIu">pic.twitter.com/zPiMY1MsIu</a>&mdash; Loyola University Chicago (@LoyolaChicago) <a href="https://twitter.com/LoyolaChicago/status/1976495097702162781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Health issues caused Sister Jean to step down from her role with the university in August, though the school said she remained as an adviser in the final months of her life.“In many roles at Loyola over the course of more than 60 years, Sister Jean was an invaluable source of wisdom and grace for generations of students, faculty, and staff,” Loyola President Mark C. Reed said.“While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy,” Reed said. ”Her presence was a profound blessing for our entire community and her spirit abides in thousands of lives. In her honor, we can aspire to share with others the love and compassion Sister Jean shared with us.”Sister Jean — born Dolores Bertha Schmidt on August 21, 1919, then taking the name Sister Jean Dolores in 1937 — became one of the most talked-about personalities during that 2018 NCAA Tournament. She did countless interviews and even was celebrated with a bobblehead in her likeness.She published a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sports-parasports-jean-dolores-schmidt-chicago-06b8d438408e8e6abe08b395e3cd13d7">memoir</a>&nbsp;in 2023, “Wake Up with Purpose! What I’ve Learned in My First 100 Years,” sharing lessons she’d learned throughout her life and offering spiritual advice.The basketball teams at Loyola already had learned many of those lessons. And when that run in 2018 ended with a 69-57 loss to Michigan in the national semifinals, players received immediate consolation from their biggest fan.“Sister Jean just said it was a great season,” forward Aundre Jackson said after the loss. “She was so happy to be on this run with us and we should keep our heads high and be happy with what we accomplished.”The players on that team, some of them 80 years younger than Sister Jean, made no secret of what she meant to them, to the program and to the university. And she was not just there to be there, either. The Ramblers insisted she was a real part of their success.“Sister Jean, she has meant so much to me personally and obviously the team,” Loyola’s Donte Ingram said after hitting one of the biggest shots in school history, a 3-pointer that lifted the team past Miami 64-62 in the first round of the 2018 tournament.“She is there before every game. She’s saying a prayer before every game. After the game, she sends a general email to the team. And then at the end of the email, it’ll be individualized: ‘Hey, Donte, you did this, you rebounded well tonight. Even though they were out there to get you, you still came through for the team.’ She’s just so special, her spirit. She’s just so bright, and she means so much to the city of Chicago and Loyola obviously and the team.”Sister Jean’s news conference at that NCAA Tournament, she was told, had more journalists than Tom Brady drew at the Super Bowl. Her likeness appeared on everything from socks to a Lego statue at her gallery in Loyola’s art museum. She saw the attention as a holy opportunity to tell her story and share what she’s learned.“I love life so much and enjoy being with young people,” Sister Jean told The Associated Press in 2023. “They’re the ones who keep me going because they bring such joy into my life -- and they keep you updated on what’s happening in their world.”Loyola, which helped break down racial barriers by winning the 1963 national championship with four Black starters, had not played in the tournament since a Sweet 16 loss to Georgetown in 1985. But with a then-98-year-old nun providing a spiritual lift, the Ramblers captured the nation’s imagination.“Prayers definitely mean a little bit extra when she prays for us,” Loyola guard Clayton Custer said during the tournament.Sister Jean lived in the dorms on and off beginning in 1978, helping her maintain a strong relationship with the students. It was not unusual for her to sit with them in the student center during lunch, getting to know them and offer guidance. She led prayer groups in residence halls and established a program to connect students with residents at a retirement community.Born in San Francisco in 1919, Sister Jean grew up in a devoutly Catholic family. She witnessed the impact of the Great Depression, World War II and the building of the Golden Gate Bridge, which she recalls crossing on foot when it opened in 1937.Her religious calling, she said, came at the age of 8. She was in third grade when she met a kind, joyful teacher who belonged to the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Brimming with admiration, she would pray every day: “Dear God, help me understand what I should do, but please tell me I should become a BVM sister,” she recounted in her memoir.“I guess God listened to me on that one,” she wrote.She followed her calling to the order’s motherhouse in Dubuque, Iowa, where she made her vows. She went on to teach at Catholic schools in Chicago and Southern California, where she also coached girls’ basketball, before she ended at Mundelein College — on the Chicago lakefront — in the 1960s. The school became affiliated with Loyola in 1991, and Sister Jean was hired to help students with the transition.In 1994, she was asked to help student basketball players boost their grades — “the booster shooter” she called herself, and later that year she was named chaplain of the men’s basketball team. The role, she wrote in her memoir, became “the most transformational and transcendent position” of her life.“Sports are very important because they help develop life skills,” she said. “And during those life skills, you’re also talking about faith and purpose.”Her celebrity continued to grow and her life continued to be celebrated in her final years. At 100, Sister Jean received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis. On her 103rd birthday, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker was among the political officials dedicating the day in her honor. On her 105th birthday, Sister Jean received a proclamation from President Joe Biden — who had sent her flowers on at least one previous occasion.Biden’s message, in part, told Sister Jean, “You have shown us all that yours is a life well lived.”The university said Sister Jean is survived by her sister-in-law, Jeanne Tidwell, and her niece, Jan Schmidt.___Reynolds reported from Miami.___

Beloved March Madness icon Sister Jean dies at 106

HAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State ran its record to 8-0-2 overall and 4-0-0 in GAC play with a 5-0 shutout of Harding on Thursday evening at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The No. 7 ranked Tigers scored three of their five goals off headers in the box. Oliver Wright and Elias Ovelar Semeniuk both provided two goals in the match, while Juan Linares also got in on the scoring act.

Fort Hays State extended its longest streak without a loss to open a season in program history, remaining unbeaten for the first 10 contests this year. The Tigers did it in dominating fashion, outshooting the Bisons 21-2 in the match. FHSU held HU without a shot in the first half before they found two attempts in the second half.

Fort Hays State took control early in the first half, capitalizing on a throw in by Joseph Street in the sixth minute to set up a header by Wright for his first goal of the season. A near replay of the same sequence about 13 minutes later occurred when Wright headed another ball in off a throw in by Street. Ovelar Semeniuk added a third goal in the 31st minute, capping a dominant half where the Tigers outshot the Bisons 13-0.

The lead grew in the 55th minute when Semeniuk scored with a header in the box off a free kick assist from Tadhg Walsh. It was his 10th goal of the season, which tied him for second-best in the nation. Juan Linares capped the scoring in the 78th minute with a nifty move past a defender, allowing him to fire off a shot for the fifth goal of the match.

Along with their dominance in the shot count, FHSU had 12 corner kick opportunities to none for Harding. Payton Roehrich played the first 61 minutes of the match before yielding to Simon Niksch for the final 29. Neither had to make a save to earn the combined shutout. Fort Hays State now has seven shutouts in 10 matches this season. Wright, Linares, Ovelar Semeniuk, and Dalton Cates all tied for the team lead in shots with three each.

Looking ahead, Fort Hays State will host Ouachita Baptist for another GAC contest on Saturday, October 11 at noon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760091360409.png" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Jordyn Bredenberg</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. – Fort Hays State ran its record to 8-0-2 overall and 4-0-0 in GAC play with a 5-0 shutout of Harding on Thursday evening at FHSU Soccer Stadium. The No. 7 ranked Tigers scored three of their five goals off headers in the box. Oliver Wright and Elias Ovelar Semeniuk both provided two goals in the match, while Juan Linares also got in on the scoring act.Fort Hays State extended its longest streak without a loss to open a season in program history, remaining unbeaten for the first 10 contests this year. The Tigers did it in dominating fashion, outshooting the Bisons 21-2 in the match. FHSU held HU without a shot in the first half before they found two attempts in the second half.Fort Hays State took control early in the first half, capitalizing on a throw in by Joseph Street in the sixth minute to set up a header by Wright for his first goal of the season. A near replay of the same sequence about 13 minutes later occurred when Wright headed another ball in off a throw in by Street. Ovelar Semeniuk added a third goal in the 31st minute, capping a dominant half where the Tigers outshot the Bisons 13-0.The lead grew in the 55th minute when Semeniuk scored with a header in the box off a free kick assist from Tadhg Walsh. It was his 10th goal of the season, which tied him for second-best in the nation. Juan Linares capped the scoring in the 78th minute with a nifty move past a defender, allowing him to fire off a shot for the fifth goal of the match.Along with their dominance in the shot count, FHSU had 12 corner kick opportunities to none for Harding. Payton Roehrich played the first 61 minutes of the match before yielding to Simon Niksch for the final 29. Neither had to make a save to earn the combined shutout. Fort Hays State now has seven shutouts in 10 matches this season. Wright, Linares, Ovelar Semeniuk, and Dalton Cates all tied for the team lead in shots with three each.Up nextLooking ahead, Fort Hays State will host Ouachita Baptist for another GAC contest on Saturday, October 11 at noon.

⚽ Tiger head their way past Harding

Alphonse B. “Ollie” Kuhn, age 92,
passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Via Christi Village Care Center,
Hays, Kansas.

He was born on February 3, 1933, on the family farm North of Victoria, Kansas,
to Anton M. and Mary (Hoffman) Kuhn.&nbsp; He married Nettie (Walters) on
September 8, 1962.

Ollie was a farmer all of his life and also was a pumper in the oil
fields for over 50 years.&nbsp; He attended school in Victoria, and enjoyed
fishing, cooking, playing cards, and was very active in the Knights of Columbus
and Saint Fidelis Parish.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He was a member of The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, the Victoria 3rd
Degree and 4th Degree Assembly Knights of Columbus, served on the
Knights of Columbus Hays Area Degree team for
25 years, and was past president of &nbsp;Ellis County Farm Bureau.&nbsp; He
was Knight of the Year from 2000 -2001, and was District Knight of the Year in
2001, and again in 2016.&nbsp; 

Ollie is survived by his son, Toby Kuhn and companion, Aphesian King, Topeka,
Kansas;&nbsp;his
grandchildren, Cheyenne Todd, Omaha, NE; Taryn Jones and husband, Carter,
Lawrence, KS; and his former wife, Nettie Kuhn-Verdi, Hays, KS. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Mary Kuhn; his
son, Timothy Kuhn; his
grandson, Tyler Kuhn; his four brothers, Edmund (Norine) Kuhn; Emil (Zita)
Kuhn; Ermin Kuhn; Alfred (Lucille) Kuhn; his seven sisters, Albina (Otto)
Dreiling; Regina Kuhn; Helen (Joe) Dinkel; Margaret Kuhn; Oliva (Ben) Windholz;
Henrietta Kuhn; Laurinda Schmeidler (Eugene); his three infant sisters, Albina;
Mary; and Henrietta.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. Monday, October 13,
2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas with Celebrant, Father
John Schmeidler.&nbsp; Burial will be in Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria,
Kansas.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
Victoria, Kansas and from 9:30 to 11:00 A.M. Monday, at The Basilica of Saint
Fidelis.

A Vigil Service will be at 6:30 P.M. Sunday, followed by a Knights of Columbus
3rd Degree and 4th Degree Rosary both at Cline’s-Keithley
Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.

In
Lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials made payable to: The Basilica of
Saint Fidelis Building Fund in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main
Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.&nbsp;
Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760043830078.jpeg" alt="Alphonse B. 'Ollie' Kuhn" />
 <figcaption>Alphonse B. 'Ollie' Kuhn</figcaption>
 </figure>Alphonse B. “Ollie” Kuhn, age 92,
passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Via Christi Village Care Center,
Hays, Kansas.He was born on February 3, 1933, on the family farm North of Victoria, Kansas,
to Anton M. and Mary (Hoffman) Kuhn.&nbsp; He married Nettie (Walters) on
September 8, 1962.Ollie was a farmer all of his life and also was a pumper in the oil
fields for over 50 years.&nbsp; He attended school in Victoria, and enjoyed
fishing, cooking, playing cards, and was very active in the Knights of Columbus
and Saint Fidelis Parish.&nbsp; &nbsp;He was a member of The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, the Victoria 3rd
Degree and 4th Degree Assembly Knights of Columbus, served on the
Knights of Columbus Hays Area Degree team for
25 years, and was past president of &nbsp;Ellis County Farm Bureau.&nbsp; He
was Knight of the Year from 2000 -2001, and was District Knight of the Year in
2001, and again in 2016.&nbsp; Ollie is survived by his son, Toby Kuhn and companion, Aphesian King, Topeka,
Kansas;&nbsp;his
grandchildren, Cheyenne Todd, Omaha, NE; Taryn Jones and husband, Carter,
Lawrence, KS; and his former wife, Nettie Kuhn-Verdi, Hays, KS. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anton and Mary Kuhn; his
son, Timothy Kuhn; his
grandson, Tyler Kuhn; his four brothers, Edmund (Norine) Kuhn; Emil (Zita)
Kuhn; Ermin Kuhn; Alfred (Lucille) Kuhn; his seven sisters, Albina (Otto)
Dreiling; Regina Kuhn; Helen (Joe) Dinkel; Margaret Kuhn; Oliva (Ben) Windholz;
Henrietta Kuhn; Laurinda Schmeidler (Eugene); his three infant sisters, Albina;
Mary; and Henrietta.A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 A.M. Monday, October 13,
2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas with Celebrant, Father
John Schmeidler.&nbsp; Burial will be in Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria,
Kansas.Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Sunday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
Victoria, Kansas and from 9:30 to 11:00 A.M. Monday, at The Basilica of Saint
Fidelis.A Vigil Service will be at 6:30 P.M. Sunday, followed by a Knights of Columbus
3rd Degree and 4th Degree Rosary both at Cline’s-Keithley
Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.In
Lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials made payable to: The Basilica of
Saint Fidelis Building Fund in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main
Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.&nbsp;
Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Alphonse B. 'Ollie' Kuhn

Leo Kenneth 'Ken' Herman, 94, Hays, died Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at his home.

He was born
April 3, 1931 in Spearville, the son of Leo Carl and Helen Edna (Laudick)
Herman.&nbsp; Ken graduated from Spearville
High School in 1949.&nbsp; Ken served in the
U.S Navy from 1950-1954 during the Korean War, and was stationed in Guam for
two years, transported troops for two years, and made 24 trips to Japan, Korea,
and Guam.&nbsp; He attended Dodge City Junior
College and graduated from Salt City Business College in Hutchinson.&nbsp; While studying at Salt City he met Shirley
Dufield and they were united in marriage on September 13, 1957 in Spearville.&nbsp; They celebrated 68 years of marriage.&nbsp; 

Ken began
working as a bookkeeper for Dick B. Evans in Great Bend and in 1959, he and
Shirley moved to Hays as Ken started a long career with Farmers Co-op, now
Midland Marketing Co-op, where he was their bookkeeper, office manager, and
manager, retiring in 1993.&nbsp; From
1983-1992, Ken was elected to serve as the director of Farmland Industries, and
he also served on the Commerce Bank Board of Directors.&nbsp; He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary
Catholic Church, the St. Joseph Third Degree Knights of Columbus Council #1325,
and the Hays VFW Post #9076.

Ken enjoyed
visiting with his friends, helping around the house, and traveling all around
the world.&nbsp; He loved his family and was
continually strengthening his faith in God through daily Bible readings.

Survivors
include his wife Shirley of Hays, his son Keith Herman of Fort Worth, TX, two
daughters, Linda Coyle of Arlington, TX and Debbie Keohan and husband Tom of
Parker, Colorado, one brother, David Herman of Wichita, two sisters, Mary Lou
Scheve of Kinsley and Janice Askew of Dodge City, four grandchildren, Lauren
Coyle, Madison Coyle, Andrew Keohan, and Grant Keohan, a great grandson,
Beckham, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was
preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Lori Ann Herman, two sisters
Polly Nightingale and Cleo Mae Stegman, and four brothers-in-law, Dick
Nightingale, Gene Stegman, Lawrence Scheve, and Dwayne Askew.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at
10:00 am on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic
Church with Fr. Fred Gatschet officiating. &nbsp;Burial with military honors by
the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.
&nbsp;Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Tuesday and from 9:00 am
until 9:45 on Wednesday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. &nbsp;A
vigil service will be at 6:00 pm followed by a Knights of Columbus rosary, both
on Tuesday at the funeral home. &nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials are
suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Heritage Foundation, or
to the Wounded Warrior Project. &nbsp;Condolences and memories of Ken may be
left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760038517179.jpeg" alt="Leo Kenneth 'Ken' Herman" />
 <figcaption>Leo Kenneth 'Ken' Herman</figcaption>
 </figure>Leo Kenneth 'Ken' Herman, 94, Hays, died Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at his home.He was born
April 3, 1931 in Spearville, the son of Leo Carl and Helen Edna (Laudick)
Herman.&nbsp; Ken graduated from Spearville
High School in 1949.&nbsp; Ken served in the
U.S Navy from 1950-1954 during the Korean War, and was stationed in Guam for
two years, transported troops for two years, and made 24 trips to Japan, Korea,
and Guam.&nbsp; He attended Dodge City Junior
College and graduated from Salt City Business College in Hutchinson.&nbsp; While studying at Salt City he met Shirley
Dufield and they were united in marriage on September 13, 1957 in Spearville.&nbsp; They celebrated 68 years of marriage.&nbsp; Ken began
working as a bookkeeper for Dick B. Evans in Great Bend and in 1959, he and
Shirley moved to Hays as Ken started a long career with Farmers Co-op, now
Midland Marketing Co-op, where he was their bookkeeper, office manager, and
manager, retiring in 1993.&nbsp; From
1983-1992, Ken was elected to serve as the director of Farmland Industries, and
he also served on the Commerce Bank Board of Directors.&nbsp; He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary
Catholic Church, the St. Joseph Third Degree Knights of Columbus Council #1325,
and the Hays VFW Post #9076.Ken enjoyed
visiting with his friends, helping around the house, and traveling all around
the world.&nbsp; He loved his family and was
continually strengthening his faith in God through daily Bible readings.Survivors
include his wife Shirley of Hays, his son Keith Herman of Fort Worth, TX, two
daughters, Linda Coyle of Arlington, TX and Debbie Keohan and husband Tom of
Parker, Colorado, one brother, David Herman of Wichita, two sisters, Mary Lou
Scheve of Kinsley and Janice Askew of Dodge City, four grandchildren, Lauren
Coyle, Madison Coyle, Andrew Keohan, and Grant Keohan, a great grandson,
Beckham, and numerous nieces and nephews.He was
preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Lori Ann Herman, two sisters
Polly Nightingale and Cleo Mae Stegman, and four brothers-in-law, Dick
Nightingale, Gene Stegman, Lawrence Scheve, and Dwayne Askew.Mass of Christian Burial will be at
10:00 am on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic
Church with Fr. Fred Gatschet officiating. &nbsp;Burial with military honors by
the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.
&nbsp;Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Tuesday and from 9:00 am
until 9:45 on Wednesday, all at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. &nbsp;A
vigil service will be at 6:00 pm followed by a Knights of Columbus rosary, both
on Tuesday at the funeral home. &nbsp;In lieu of flowers, memorials are
suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Heritage Foundation, or
to the Wounded Warrior Project. &nbsp;Condolences and memories of Ken may be
left for his family at www.haysmemorial.com&nbsp;

Leo Kenneth 'Ken' Herman

WASHINGTON (AP) —Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Thursday blamed the government shutdown for a delay in announcing an aid package for U.S. farmers, who have seen one of their biggest markets almost disappear because of President Donald Trump’s tariff war with China.

“We’ve got to get the government reopened so that we can move forward on that,” Rollins said at a cabinet meeting, where both she and Trump sought to blame the Biden administration for the woes faced by U.S. farmers.

Last week, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a significant aid package could come as soon as Tuesday. China has urged the U.S. to remove “unreasonable tariffs” to resume&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soybeans-trade-tariff-china-united-states-export-025792707c4e4e91d975f8558edae1d8">soybean trade</a>.

Trump and Chinese President Xi are scheduled to meet in about three weeks in South Korea.

WASHINGTON (AP) —Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Thursday blamed the government shutdown for a delay in announcing an aid package for U.S. farmers, who have seen one of their biggest markets almost disappear because of President Donald Trump’s tariff war with China.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">American farmers deserve fair global markets!🇺🇸 Joe Biden failed to enforce President Trump&#39;s over $50 BILLION trade deal with China, and failed to sign ANY new trade deals. This harmed our Farmers greatly. Thanks to leadership from <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, we are fixing that. These markets… <a href="https://t.co/wHy952sOh2">https://t.co/wHy952sOh2</a>&mdash; Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins/status/1976341155890544683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We’ve got to get the government reopened so that we can move forward on that,” Rollins said at a cabinet meeting, where both she and Trump sought to blame the Biden administration for the woes faced by U.S. farmers.Last week, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a significant aid package could come as soon as Tuesday. China has urged the U.S. to remove “unreasonable tariffs” to resume&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soybeans-trade-tariff-china-united-states-export-025792707c4e4e91d975f8558edae1d8">soybean trade</a>.Trump and Chinese President Xi are scheduled to meet in about three weeks in South Korea.

🎥Ag secretary says aid for farmers is coming but delayed by shutdown

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — World leaders on Thursday expressed hope for peace and urged Israel and Hamas to fulfill their commitments in the hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the parties&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/egypt-gaza-talks-kushner-witkoff-israel-hamas-news-10-08-2025-ac80d3ed50ff2a9b4106ab5e13156651">had agreed to the “first phase”</a>&nbsp;of a deal signaling a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rubio-note-middle-east-peace-f570658c65daefab6d0af9b29e851dd7">major breakthrough</a>&nbsp;in the two-year war in Gaza.

Hamas will release all 20 living hostages in the coming days in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, while the Israeli military will begin a withdrawal from the majority of Gaza.

“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace,” Trump wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on social media: “With God’s help we will bring them all home.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose country played a role in the negotiations, on Thursday hailed the agreement. In a statement posted on X, Erdogan thanked Trump for “demonstrating the necessary political will” as well as Qatar and Egypt for facilitating the deal.

Erdogan said Turkey would closely monitor the full implementation of the agreement and continue to contribute to the process.

“I extend my heartfelt greetings to my Palestinian brothers and sisters who have endured indescribable suffering for two years,” he said.

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said sending humanitarian aid to the region is a priority and stressed the urgent need to begin rebuilding Gaza.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi hailed the deal between Israel and Hamas as a “historic moment.”

“This agreement does not only close the chapter of war; it also opens the door of hope for the peoples of the region for a future defined by justice and stability,” el-Sissi wrote on social media.

“The United Nations will support the full implementation of the agreement and will scale up the delivery of sustained and principled humanitarian relief, and we will advance recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza,” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement.

The U.N. chief urged all parties “to seize this momentous opportunity to establish a credible political path forward towards ending the occupation, recognizing the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, and achieving a two-state solution that enables Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.”

China hoped for a “lasting and comprehensive” ceasefire in Gaza, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun saying that Xi Jinping's government expects the agreement to ease the “humanitarian crisis” in Gaza and calm tensions in the Middle East.

“We are ready to work with the international community to make unremitting efforts to promote a comprehensive, fair and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue and the realization of peace and stability in the Middle East,” he said, noting that China advocates for a two-state solution.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the agreement is a “great hope for the hostages and their families, for the Palestinians in Gaza, and for the entire region.”

In a message posted on X, Macron commended “the efforts of President @realDonaldTrump, as well as the Qatari, Egyptian, and Turkish mediators who helped make it happen,” and called on the warring parties “to strictly uphold” the terms of the deal.

Macron added that the deal will be discussed in Paris later Thursday during a meeting between European and Arab countries’ foreign ministers on the future of Gaza. “This agreement must mark the end of the war and the beginning of a political solution based on the two-state solution,” he said.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed news of the agreement and urged an immediate lifting of restrictions on aid.

Speaking while on a trade mission to India, Starmer praised the “tireless diplomatic efforts” of the U.S., as well as Egypt, Qatar and Turkey in bringing about the deal. The U.K. will support efforts to turn the ceasefire into a “sustainable path” to long-term peace, he said.

“This is a moment of profound relief that will be felt all around the world, but particularly for the hostages, their families and for the civilian population of Gaza, who have all endured unimaginable suffering over the last two years,” he said.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the agreement and said he was hopeful for a full deal this week.

Merz said the developments are encouraging and there’s “a great opportunity to reach an agreement with Hamas in the coming hours already” for the remaining hostages to be released this week and for the Israeli military to pull back.

He told reporters that “hopes regarding Israel and the Gaza Strip increased again last night, but this is not yet really concluded, so we are of course watching the situation very closely and remain optimistic that … a solution will be reached there this week.”

Saudi Arabia welcomed the possible start of a ceasefire, with the foreign ministry expressing “its hope that this important step will lead to urgent action to alleviate the humanitarian suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, a complete Israeli withdrawal, the restoration of security and stability and the initiation of practical steps to achieve a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.”

Jordan's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, praised the efforts of Egypt, Qatar and the United States and thanked Turkey for its role in the deal.

Safadi stressed the need for aid to enter Gaza and said Jordan was ready to resume aid deliveries.

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun said he hoped the initial agreement would “constitute a first step toward a permanent ceasefire and an end to the humanitarian suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people in Gaza.”

Aoun called for “continued international and regional efforts to achieve a comprehensive and just peace in the region that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people” and for Israel to “halt its aggressive policies in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.”

Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni hailed the agreement, calling it “extraordinary news.”

“This agreement and the broader path outlined by the Trump plan constitute a unique opportunity to end this conflict that must be seized,” Meloni said. “Therefore, I urge all parties to fully respect the measures already agreed upon and to work to swiftly implement the next steps envisaged in the peace plan.”

Meloni said Italy will continue to support the mediators’ efforts, standing “ready to contribute to the stabilization, reconstruction, and development of Gaza.”

Foreign Minister David van Weel, speaking during a visit to Indonesia, said the agreement is “a significant step and a historical turning point for peace and stability in the Middle East.”

“It can put an end to two years of unimaginable suffering. But the full implementation of this plan is crucial. And that starts with the release of hostages, the unhindered access for humanitarian aid, and the cessation of all hostilities,” he said.

“I am relieved that the hostages will soon be reunited with their families,” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on social media.

“After years of intense suffering, peace finally feels attainable,” he said. “Canada calls on all parties to swiftly implement all agreed terms and to work towards a just and lasting peace.”

Carney, like several other leaders, praised Qatar, Egypt and Turkey for their role in the negotiations.

“I want to take the opportunity to say that I will sign the candidacy of Donald J. Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to international peace,” Argentine President Javier Milei posted on X.

“Any other leader with similar achievements would have received it a long time ago,” the libertarian leader and Trump ally wrote.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the agreement as a “ray of light.” The announcement brought “hope that after eight decades of conflict and terror, we can break this cycle of violence and build something better,” he said.

“Today the world has cause for real hope,” the Australian leader added.

“We hope the release of hostages and enhanced humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza will bring respite to them and pave the way for lasting peace,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X.

“Japan welcomes that the agreement on the ‘first phase’ has been reached among the involved parties,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters. “This agreement is an important step toward de-escalating the situation and achieving the two-state solution,” he said.

He also praised the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, Turkey and other mediating countries for their “relentless effort” and sought “sincere and steady implementation” by all involved parties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759965885992.png" alt="President Trump hinting that a deal was close during a White House meeting on Wednesday-image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>President Trump hinting that a deal was close during a White House meeting on Wednesday-image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — World leaders on Thursday expressed hope for peace and urged Israel and Hamas to fulfill their commitments in the hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the parties&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/egypt-gaza-talks-kushner-witkoff-israel-hamas-news-10-08-2025-ac80d3ed50ff2a9b4106ab5e13156651">had agreed to the “first phase”</a>&nbsp;of a deal signaling a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-rubio-note-middle-east-peace-f570658c65daefab6d0af9b29e851dd7">major breakthrough</a>&nbsp;in the two-year war in Gaza.Hamas will release all 20 living hostages in the coming days in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, while the Israeli military will begin a withdrawal from the majority of Gaza.“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace,” Trump wrote on social media.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on social media: “With God’s help we will bring them all home.”Here's how other leaders responded.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Spoke to my friend, President Trump and congratulated him on the success of the historic Gaza peace plan. Also reviewed the good progress achieved in trade negotiations. Agreed to stay in close touch over the coming weeks. <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1976306593093341640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><h2>Turkey</h2>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose country played a role in the negotiations, on Thursday hailed the agreement. In a statement posted on X, Erdogan thanked Trump for “demonstrating the necessary political will” as well as Qatar and Egypt for facilitating the deal.Erdogan said Turkey would closely monitor the full implementation of the agreement and continue to contribute to the process.“I extend my heartfelt greetings to my Palestinian brothers and sisters who have endured indescribable suffering for two years,” he said.Turkey’s Foreign Ministry said sending humanitarian aid to the region is a priority and stressed the urgent need to begin rebuilding Gaza.<h2>Egypt</h2>Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi hailed the deal between Israel and Hamas as a “historic moment.”“This agreement does not only close the chapter of war; it also opens the door of hope for the peoples of the region for a future defined by justice and stability,” el-Sissi wrote on social media.<h2>United Nations</h2>“The United Nations will support the full implementation of the agreement and will scale up the delivery of sustained and principled humanitarian relief, and we will advance recovery and reconstruction efforts in Gaza,” U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres said in a statement.The U.N. chief urged all parties “to seize this momentous opportunity to establish a credible political path forward towards ending the occupation, recognizing the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, and achieving a two-state solution that enables Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.”<h2>China</h2>China hoped for a “lasting and comprehensive” ceasefire in Gaza, with Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun saying that Xi Jinping's government expects the agreement to ease the “humanitarian crisis” in Gaza and calm tensions in the Middle East.“We are ready to work with the international community to make unremitting efforts to promote a comprehensive, fair and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue and the realization of peace and stability in the Middle East,” he said, noting that China advocates for a two-state solution.<h2>France</h2>French President Emmanuel Macron said the agreement is a “great hope for the hostages and their families, for the Palestinians in Gaza, and for the entire region.”In a message posted on X, Macron commended “the efforts of President @realDonaldTrump, as well as the Qatari, Egyptian, and Turkish mediators who helped make it happen,” and called on the warring parties “to strictly uphold” the terms of the deal.Macron added that the deal will be discussed in Paris later Thursday during a meeting between European and Arab countries’ foreign ministers on the future of Gaza. “This agreement must mark the end of the war and the beginning of a political solution based on the two-state solution,” he said.<h2>Britain</h2>British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed news of the agreement and urged an immediate lifting of restrictions on aid.Speaking while on a trade mission to India, Starmer praised the “tireless diplomatic efforts” of the U.S., as well as Egypt, Qatar and Turkey in bringing about the deal. The U.K. will support efforts to turn the ceasefire into a “sustainable path” to long-term peace, he said.“This is a moment of profound relief that will be felt all around the world, but particularly for the hostages, their families and for the civilian population of Gaza, who have all endured unimaginable suffering over the last two years,” he said.<h2>Germany</h2>German Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the agreement and said he was hopeful for a full deal this week.Merz said the developments are encouraging and there’s “a great opportunity to reach an agreement with Hamas in the coming hours already” for the remaining hostages to be released this week and for the Israeli military to pull back.He told reporters that “hopes regarding Israel and the Gaza Strip increased again last night, but this is not yet really concluded, so we are of course watching the situation very closely and remain optimistic that … a solution will be reached there this week.”<h2>Saudi Arabia</h2>Saudi Arabia welcomed the possible start of a ceasefire, with the foreign ministry expressing “its hope that this important step will lead to urgent action to alleviate the humanitarian suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, a complete Israeli withdrawal, the restoration of security and stability and the initiation of practical steps to achieve a just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders.”<h2>Jordan</h2>Jordan's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Ayman Safadi, praised the efforts of Egypt, Qatar and the United States and thanked Turkey for its role in the deal.Safadi stressed the need for aid to enter Gaza and said Jordan was ready to resume aid deliveries.<h2>Lebanon</h2>Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun said he hoped the initial agreement would “constitute a first step toward a permanent ceasefire and an end to the humanitarian suffering of the brotherly Palestinian people in Gaza.”Aoun called for “continued international and regional efforts to achieve a comprehensive and just peace in the region that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people” and for Israel to “halt its aggressive policies in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.”<h2>Italy</h2>Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni hailed the agreement, calling it “extraordinary news.”“This agreement and the broader path outlined by the Trump plan constitute a unique opportunity to end this conflict that must be seized,” Meloni said. “Therefore, I urge all parties to fully respect the measures already agreed upon and to work to swiftly implement the next steps envisaged in the peace plan.”Meloni said Italy will continue to support the mediators’ efforts, standing “ready to contribute to the stabilization, reconstruction, and development of Gaza.”<h2>Netherlands</h2>Foreign Minister David van Weel, speaking during a visit to Indonesia, said the agreement is “a significant step and a historical turning point for peace and stability in the Middle East.”“It can put an end to two years of unimaginable suffering. But the full implementation of this plan is crucial. And that starts with the release of hostages, the unhindered access for humanitarian aid, and the cessation of all hostilities,” he said.<h2>Canada</h2>“I am relieved that the hostages will soon be reunited with their families,” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney posted on social media.“After years of intense suffering, peace finally feels attainable,” he said. “Canada calls on all parties to swiftly implement all agreed terms and to work towards a just and lasting peace.”Carney, like several other leaders, praised Qatar, Egypt and Turkey for their role in the negotiations.<h2>Argentina</h2>“I want to take the opportunity to say that I will sign the candidacy of Donald J. Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to international peace,” Argentine President Javier Milei posted on X.“Any other leader with similar achievements would have received it a long time ago,” the libertarian leader and Trump ally wrote.<h2>Australia</h2>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the agreement as a “ray of light.” The announcement brought “hope that after eight decades of conflict and terror, we can break this cycle of violence and build something better,” he said.“Today the world has cause for real hope,” the Australian leader added.<h2>India</h2>“We hope the release of hostages and enhanced humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza will bring respite to them and pave the way for lasting peace,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X.<h2>Japan</h2>“Japan welcomes that the agreement on the ‘first phase’ has been reached among the involved parties,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters. “This agreement is an important step toward de-escalating the situation and achieving the two-state solution,” he said.He also praised the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, Turkey and other mediating countries for their “relentless effort” and sought “sincere and steady implementation” by all involved parties.