KANSAS CITY —A tree trimmer injured in accident just after 1p.m. Wednesday in Kansas City, Missouri, remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

The Kansas City Fire Department&nbsp;responded to the reported high-angle rescue and possible electrocution in the 2400 block of Brighton, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. On arrival crews encountered a tree trimmer who had come in to contact with an overhead power line.

The patient was unconscious and suspended by his safety rope. The patient was lowered to the ground and transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Kansas City police responded to the scene as part of protocol and is now investigating the incident due to the casualty, which is significant to the individual not by criminal means, according to Becchina.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759954466260.png" alt="photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A tree trimmer injured in accident just after 1p.m. Wednesday in Kansas City, Missouri, remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.The Kansas City Fire Department&nbsp;responded to the reported high-angle rescue and possible electrocution in the 2400 block of Brighton, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. On arrival crews encountered a tree trimmer who had come in to contact with an overhead power line.The patient was unconscious and suspended by his safety rope. The patient was lowered to the ground and transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Kansas City police responded to the scene as part of protocol and is now investigating the incident due to the casualty, which is significant to the individual not by criminal means, according to Becchina.&nbsp;

Tree trimmer remains in KC hospital after contact with power line

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

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jonel-aleccia">JONEL ALECCIA</a> Associated Press

A California company has recalled nearly 245000 pounds (111130.04 kilograms) of pre-cooked pasta linked to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/listeria-chicken-fettucine-alfredo-kroger-walmart-1c3544d1802d7594ca47a7219ffbb111">deadly listeria outbreak</a>&nbsp;and potential contamination of dozens of products sold at grocery stores nationwide.

Nate’s Fine Foods of Roseville, California, recalled thousands of cases of linguine, fettucine, penne and other pastas sold to large producers of heat-and-eat meals and pasta salads on Sept. 25, according to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration notice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/?Event=97697" target="_blank">posted Thursday.</a>

The move came after tests showed that pasta made by Nate’s Fine Foods contained the same strain of listeria found in chicken fettucine Alfredo and meatball linguine products linked to an outbreak that has killed four people and sickened 20 since August 2024. The most recent illness reported&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-06-25/index.html" target="_blank">occurred on Sept. 11.</a>

FreshRealm, the San Clemente, California, company that produced those meals, used genetic sequencing to confirm the link to the outbreak.

Several grocery stores have recalled products made with pasta from Nate’s Fine Foods. The FDA and the U.S. Agriculture Department have warned consumers not to eat the foods and to discard them or return them to stores for refund.

1.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sprouts-farmers-market-recalling-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-because-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">Sprouts Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad</a>&nbsp;sold from the deli service counter or Grab &amp; Go section with best-by dates from Oct. 10 to Oct. 29.

2.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/giant-eagle-recalls-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-due-potential-listeria-monocytogenes-contamination" target="_blank">Giant Eagle</a>&nbsp;smoked mozzarella pasta salad — expiration dates Sept. 30 through Oct. 7.

3.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kroger-voluntarily-recalls-two-varieties-deli-pasta-salads-because-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">Kroger stores</a>&nbsp;recalled deli bowtie and penne pasta salads — sold Aug. 29 through Oct. 2.

4.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/demers-food-group-voluntarily-recalls-select-scott-jons-shrimp-scampi-linguini-bowls-due-ingredient" target="_blank">Scott &amp; Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls</a>&nbsp;9.6-oz — best if used by dates of March 12 and 13 and March 17 and 21 2027.

5.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-meals-containing-pasta-may-be-contaminated" target="_blank">Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettucine Alfredo</a>&nbsp;16-oz plastic tray packages with “best if used by” dates Sept. 20, Sept. 24, Sept. 27, Sept. 28, Oct. 1, Oct. 3, Oct. 5, Oct. 8 and Oct. 10.

6.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-albertsons-companies-voluntarily-recalls-select-store-made-deli-items-containing-bowtie-pasta" target="_blank">Albertsons stores</a>&nbsp;recalled store-made deli pasta salads — sell thru dates from Sept. 8 to Oct. 4.

7.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-meals-containing-pasta-may-be-contaminated" target="_blank">Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs &amp; Marinara Sauce</a>&nbsp;12-oz. — best-by dates of Sept. 22, Sept. 24, and 25 and Sept. 29 to Oct. 1.

8.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/freshrealm-recalls-chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-products-due-possible-listeria" target="_blank">Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine</a>&nbsp;12.3-oz – best-by date of June 26, 2025, or prior; and 32.8-oz — best-by date of June 27, 2025, or prior.

9.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/freshrealm-recalls-chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-products-due-possible-listeria" target="_blank">Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo 12.5-oz</a>&nbsp;— best-by date of June 19 or prior.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760060042421.png" alt="Image FDA" />
 <figcaption>Image FDA</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jonel-aleccia">JONEL ALECCIA</a> Associated PressA California company has recalled nearly 245000 pounds (111130.04 kilograms) of pre-cooked pasta linked to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/listeria-chicken-fettucine-alfredo-kroger-walmart-1c3544d1802d7594ca47a7219ffbb111">deadly listeria outbreak</a>&nbsp;and potential contamination of dozens of products sold at grocery stores nationwide.Nate’s Fine Foods of Roseville, California, recalled thousands of cases of linguine, fettucine, penne and other pastas sold to large producers of heat-and-eat meals and pasta salads on Sept. 25, according to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration notice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/?Event=97697" target="_blank">posted Thursday.</a>The move came after tests showed that pasta made by Nate’s Fine Foods contained the same strain of listeria found in chicken fettucine Alfredo and meatball linguine products linked to an outbreak that has killed four people and sickened 20 since August 2024. The most recent illness reported&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/listeria/outbreaks/chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-06-25/index.html" target="_blank">occurred on Sept. 11.</a>FreshRealm, the San Clemente, California, company that produced those meals, used genetic sequencing to confirm the link to the outbreak.Several grocery stores have recalled products made with pasta from Nate’s Fine Foods. The FDA and the U.S. Agriculture Department have warned consumers not to eat the foods and to discard them or return them to stores for refund.Here are the recalls to date:1.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sprouts-farmers-market-recalling-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-because-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">Sprouts Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad</a>&nbsp;sold from the deli service counter or Grab &amp; Go section with best-by dates from Oct. 10 to Oct. 29.2.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/giant-eagle-recalls-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-due-potential-listeria-monocytogenes-contamination" target="_blank">Giant Eagle</a>&nbsp;smoked mozzarella pasta salad — expiration dates Sept. 30 through Oct. 7.3.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/kroger-voluntarily-recalls-two-varieties-deli-pasta-salads-because-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">Kroger stores</a>&nbsp;recalled deli bowtie and penne pasta salads — sold Aug. 29 through Oct. 2.4.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/demers-food-group-voluntarily-recalls-select-scott-jons-shrimp-scampi-linguini-bowls-due-ingredient" target="_blank">Scott &amp; Jon’s Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Bowls</a>&nbsp;9.6-oz — best if used by dates of March 12 and 13 and March 17 and 21 2027.5.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-meals-containing-pasta-may-be-contaminated" target="_blank">Trader Joe’s Cajun Style Blackened Chicken Breast Fettucine Alfredo</a>&nbsp;16-oz plastic tray packages with “best if used by” dates Sept. 20, Sept. 24, Sept. 27, Sept. 28, Oct. 1, Oct. 3, Oct. 5, Oct. 8 and Oct. 10.6.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-albertsons-companies-voluntarily-recalls-select-store-made-deli-items-containing-bowtie-pasta" target="_blank">Albertsons stores</a>&nbsp;recalled store-made deli pasta salads — sell thru dates from Sept. 8 to Oct. 4.7.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/fsis-issues-public-health-alert-ready-eat-meals-containing-pasta-may-be-contaminated" target="_blank">Marketside Linguine with Beef Meatballs &amp; Marinara Sauce</a>&nbsp;12-oz. — best-by dates of Sept. 22, Sept. 24, and 25 and Sept. 29 to Oct. 1.8.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/freshrealm-recalls-chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-products-due-possible-listeria" target="_blank">Marketside Grilled Chicken Alfredo with Fettuccine</a>&nbsp;12.3-oz – best-by date of June 26, 2025, or prior; and 32.8-oz — best-by date of June 27, 2025, or prior.9.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls-alerts/freshrealm-recalls-chicken-fettuccine-alfredo-products-due-possible-listeria" target="_blank">Home Chef Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo 12.5-oz</a>&nbsp;— best-by date of June 19 or prior.

Company recalls nearly 245,000 pounds of pasta tied to listeria outbreak

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

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged romance scam involving a man in the Kansas City metro area.

Last week, deputies took a report of a man who has lost an estimated $120,000 since March in a romance scam, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.

A woman who said her name was Lisa sent him a message on TikTok, and they began conversing. She eventually asked him to move the conversation to the Telegram messaging app. (Scammers commonly ask you to move to an encrypted app for messaging, where it's harder for law enforcement to get access to the conversations and track down the perpetrators.)

After she'd built a relationship, "Lisa" kept having "emergencies," such as needing car repairs and gas money. The victim sent her money via CashApp and then at Bitcoin machines in Kearney and Excelsior Springs. 

Finally, "Lisa" said she needed help paying back taxes on her mother's house so she could sell it. She said she would pay the victim back when it sold. When the victim told a family member about what was happening, she recognized it was a scam.

Victims of these scams are typically very secretive because they are emotionally invested in the relationship and don't want to lose that connection. Loved ones should keep an eye out for strange and excessive expenditures. "Never send money to someone you haven't met in person, even if it feels like you know them. With crypto-currency, it's almost impossible to get that money back."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670097767255.png" alt="Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged romance scam involving a man in the Kansas City metro area.Last week, deputies took a report of a man who has lost an estimated $120,000 since March in a romance scam, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.A woman who said her name was Lisa sent him a message on TikTok, and they began conversing. She eventually asked him to move the conversation to the Telegram messaging app. (Scammers commonly ask you to move to an encrypted app for messaging, where it's harder for law enforcement to get access to the conversations and track down the perpetrators.)After she'd built a relationship, "Lisa" kept having "emergencies," such as needing car repairs and gas money. The victim sent her money via CashApp and then at Bitcoin machines in Kearney and Excelsior Springs. Finally, "Lisa" said she needed help paying back taxes on her mother's house so she could sell it. She said she would pay the victim back when it sold. When the victim told a family member about what was happening, she recognized it was a scam.Victims of these scams are typically very secretive because they are emotionally invested in the relationship and don't want to lose that connection. Loved ones should keep an eye out for strange and excessive expenditures. "Never send money to someone you haven't met in person, even if it feels like you know them. With crypto-currency, it's almost impossible to get that money back."

Sheriff: Man lost $120,000 in romance scam

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman died in a 2-vehicle accident&nbsp; Wednesday in Wichita.

Just before 2p.m., police responded to the collision involving a semi pulling a trailer and a 2008 Saturn Vue at the intersection of North Goebel and East Central, according to a media release from Wichita Police.

First responders located the driver of the SUV, later identified as 82-year-old Sharon Ramsey of Andover, who sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital. She was pronounced deceased at 2:41 p.m. 

The driver of the semi, a 35-year-old man from Wichita, was not injured. The accident remains under investigation, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760043351411.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman died in a 2-vehicle accident&nbsp; Wednesday in Wichita.Just before 2p.m., police responded to the collision involving a semi pulling a trailer and a 2008 Saturn Vue at the intersection of North Goebel and East Central, according to a media release from Wichita Police.First responders located the driver of the SUV, later identified as 82-year-old Sharon Ramsey of Andover, who sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital. She was pronounced deceased at 2:41 p.m. The driver of the semi, a 35-year-old man from Wichita, was not injured. The accident remains under investigation, according to police.

Kansas woman dies after SUV, semi crash

A Kansas City woman and man remain in custody after they fled from police and fired at officers during a high-speed chase in late August.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2719/LandersSavannah---Signed-Complaint-Packet-redacted">Savannah Landers</a>, 19, is charged with Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention, 1st Degree Assault, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of Weapon, and Possession of a Controlled Substance, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2720/BrewerCyvauodis---Signed-Afterhours-Complaint-Packet-Redacted">Cyvauodis D. Brewer</a>, 36, is charged with 1st Degree Assault, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Aggravated Fleeing a Stop of Detention, Possession of a Controlled Substance. *

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2718/PC-Statement-Landers-Brewer-Redacted">According to court records</a>, an Independence, Mo. police officer attempted to stop a white Ford Escape for speeding in the area of Sterling Avenue and Lexington Avenue in Sugar Creek. The vehicle fled, reaching speeds up to 97 miles per hour and driving into oncoming traffic on Truman Road. During the chase, the passenger of the vehicle fired shots from the vehicle toward the pursuing officer. &nbsp;

The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle struck a curb, disabling the vehicle. Landers attempted to flee but was quickly taken into custody. Officers recovered two handguns and methamphetamine from the vehicle.

During an interview with detectives, Brewer admitted to firing shots into the air, however, investigators found multiple bullet strikes on the back of the Ford Escape. &nbsp;

The driver of the vehicle was later identified as Landers and the passenger as Brewer.&nbsp; He is being held on a $500,000 bond and she is being held on a&nbsp;250000.00 bond, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759960450283.png" alt="Brewer photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Brewer photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>A Kansas City woman and man remain in custody after they fled from police and fired at officers during a high-speed chase in late August.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2719/LandersSavannah---Signed-Complaint-Packet-redacted">Savannah Landers</a>, 19, is charged with Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention, 1st Degree Assault, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of Weapon, and Possession of a Controlled Substance, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759960209483.png" alt="Landers photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Landers photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2720/BrewerCyvauodis---Signed-Afterhours-Complaint-Packet-Redacted">Cyvauodis D. Brewer</a>, 36, is charged with 1st Degree Assault, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Aggravated Fleeing a Stop of Detention, Possession of a Controlled Substance. *<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2718/PC-Statement-Landers-Brewer-Redacted">According to court records</a>, an Independence, Mo. police officer attempted to stop a white Ford Escape for speeding in the area of Sterling Avenue and Lexington Avenue in Sugar Creek. The vehicle fled, reaching speeds up to 97 miles per hour and driving into oncoming traffic on Truman Road. During the chase, the passenger of the vehicle fired shots from the vehicle toward the pursuing officer. &nbsp;The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle struck a curb, disabling the vehicle. Landers attempted to flee but was quickly taken into custody. Officers recovered two handguns and methamphetamine from the vehicle.During an interview with detectives, Brewer admitted to firing shots into the air, however, investigators found multiple bullet strikes on the back of the Ford Escape. &nbsp;The driver of the vehicle was later identified as Landers and the passenger as Brewer.&nbsp; He is being held on a $500,000 bond and she is being held on a&nbsp;250000.00 bond, according to online jail records.

KC woman drove 97mph while passenger fired shots at police

WASHINGTON (AP) Israel's Cabinet early Friday approved the 'outline' of a deal to release hostages held by Hamas.

The move announced by Netanyahu's office early Friday marks a key step in implementing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip that was brokered by Trump.

The brief statement focused on the hostage release and made no mention of the other parts of Trump’s plan for ending the war. Israel is expected to release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the remaining 48 hostages taken in Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack.

Around 20 of the hostages are believed to be alive.

Meanwhile, the United States is sending about 200 troops to Israel to help support and monitor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-hostages-trump-peace-plan-e3d0ce091be56cc29207e566ff1603af">the ceasefire deal in Gaza</a>&nbsp;as part of a team that includes partner nations, nongovernmental organizations and private sector players, U.S. officials said Thursday.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not authorized for release, said U.S. Central Command is going to establish a “civil-military coordination center” in Israel that will help facilitate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/un-gaza-humanitarian-aid-ceasefire-hunger-cb6b6bb55b9f6b93bf2f657605d39e2a">the flow of humanitarian aid</a>&nbsp;as well as logistical and security assistance into the territory wracked by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">two years of war</a>.

The remarks provide some of the first details on how the ceasefire deal would be monitored and that the U.S. military would have a role in that effort. After Israel and Hamas agreed to the first phase of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-israel-hamas-palestinians-peace-plan-ce2e84de8aa5fd308fe751ae9c3118e8">Trump administration plan to halt the fighting</a>, a litany of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-war-ceasefire-peace-plan-next-steps-f9db8882e5e62c765d9e2924bf09e63b">questions remain on next steps</a>, including Hamas disarmament, a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a future government in the territory.

One of the officials said the new team will help monitor implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the transition to a civilian government in Gaza.

The coordination center will be staffed by about 200 U.S. service members who have expertise in transportation, planning, security, logistics and engineering, said the official, who noted that no American troops will be sent into Gaza.

A second official said troops would come from U.S. Central Command as well as other parts of the globe. That official added that the troops already have begun arriving and will continue to travel to the region over the weekend to begin planning and efforts to establish the center.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-hostages-trump-peace-plan-e3d0ce091be56cc29207e566ff1603af">breakthrough deal</a>&nbsp;to pause the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-updates-10-9-2025">war in Gaza</a>&nbsp;was reached Wednesday after the United States and mediators in the region pressured&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hamas-israel-gaza-war-mideast-bba524e6ac9cc9877e71fefc804cb602">both Israel and Hamas</a>&nbsp;to end the fighting that has devastated the Gaza Strip, killed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/october-7-deaths-israel-hamas-war-707cd188234d3fa5bb3129426cf703c5">tens of thousands of Palestinians</a>, sparked other conflicts and isolated Israel.

That push sealed an agreement on a first phase that would free the remaining living&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-war-hostages-families-trump-4b3ba8bb55cf0e37739c9b1a57c10cf7">Israeli hostages</a>&nbsp;within days in exchange for the release of hundreds of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-palestinian-prisoners-barghouti-ecd57941b935a88c1f560d35e25d0c1f">Palestinians imprisoned</a>&nbsp;by Israel.

WASHINGTON (AP) Israel's Cabinet early Friday approved the 'outline' of a deal to release hostages held by Hamas.The move announced by Netanyahu's office early Friday marks a key step in implementing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip that was brokered by Trump.The brief statement focused on the hostage release and made no mention of the other parts of Trump’s plan for ending the war. Israel is expected to release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the remaining 48 hostages taken in Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack.Around 20 of the hostages are believed to be alive.Meanwhile, the United States is sending about 200 troops to Israel to help support and monitor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-hostages-trump-peace-plan-e3d0ce091be56cc29207e566ff1603af">the ceasefire deal in Gaza</a>&nbsp;as part of a team that includes partner nations, nongovernmental organizations and private sector players, U.S. officials said Thursday.The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not authorized for release, said U.S. Central Command is going to establish a “civil-military coordination center” in Israel that will help facilitate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/un-gaza-humanitarian-aid-ceasefire-hunger-cb6b6bb55b9f6b93bf2f657605d39e2a">the flow of humanitarian aid</a>&nbsp;as well as logistical and security assistance into the territory wracked by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">two years of war</a>.The remarks provide some of the first details on how the ceasefire deal would be monitored and that the U.S. military would have a role in that effort. After Israel and Hamas agreed to the first phase of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-israel-hamas-palestinians-peace-plan-ce2e84de8aa5fd308fe751ae9c3118e8">Trump administration plan to halt the fighting</a>, a litany of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-war-ceasefire-peace-plan-next-steps-f9db8882e5e62c765d9e2924bf09e63b">questions remain on next steps</a>, including Hamas disarmament, a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a future government in the territory.One of the officials said the new team will help monitor implementation of the ceasefire agreement and the transition to a civilian government in Gaza.The coordination center will be staffed by about 200 U.S. service members who have expertise in transportation, planning, security, logistics and engineering, said the official, who noted that no American troops will be sent into Gaza.A second official said troops would come from U.S. Central Command as well as other parts of the globe. That official added that the troops already have begun arriving and will continue to travel to the region over the weekend to begin planning and efforts to establish the center.A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-hostages-trump-peace-plan-e3d0ce091be56cc29207e566ff1603af">breakthrough deal</a>&nbsp;to pause the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-updates-10-9-2025">war in Gaza</a>&nbsp;was reached Wednesday after the United States and mediators in the region pressured&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hamas-israel-gaza-war-mideast-bba524e6ac9cc9877e71fefc804cb602">both Israel and Hamas</a>&nbsp;to end the fighting that has devastated the Gaza Strip, killed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/october-7-deaths-israel-hamas-war-707cd188234d3fa5bb3129426cf703c5">tens of thousands of Palestinians</a>, sparked other conflicts and isolated Israel.That push sealed an agreement on a first phase that would free the remaining living&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-war-hostages-families-trump-4b3ba8bb55cf0e37739c9b1a57c10cf7">Israeli hostages</a>&nbsp;within days in exchange for the release of hundreds of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-palestinian-prisoners-barghouti-ecd57941b935a88c1f560d35e25d0c1f">Palestinians imprisoned</a>&nbsp;by Israel.

Israel cabinet OKs Gaza ceasefire; US sending troops to support and monitor 

WASHINGTON (AP) — New York Attorney General&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/letitia-james">Letitia James</a>&nbsp;was charged Thursday as part of a mortgage fraud investigation aggressively pushed by the Trump administration, becoming the latest foe of the president to be prosecuted by his Justice Department.

James, who infuriated President Donald Trump by suing him and his company for fraud in a case that played out as he was running for office, was indicted on charges of bank fraud and false statements to a financial institution following a presentation to a grand jury in Virginia by a prosecutor who was hastily appointed last month amid Trump administration pressure to deliver criminal cases against his adversaries.

The indictment, two weeks after a separate criminal case charging&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/james-comey-charged-lying-congress-a2c72e1a5bb73d588f3af7fdb56caa82">former FBI Director James Comey</a>&nbsp;with lying to Congress, is the latest indication of the Trump administration’s norm-busting determination to use the law enforcement powers of the Justice Department to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-comey-justice-department-james-schiff-309c573c2d9d16839afabb3af56ef2f8">pursue the president’s political foes</a>&nbsp;and public figures who once investigated him.

Both the Comey and James cases followed a strikingly unconventional paths toward indictment, with the Trump administration last month pushing out Erik Siebert, the veteran prosecutor who had overseen both investigations for months and had resisted pressure to file charges and replaced him with Lindsey Halligan, a White House aide who was once Trump’s personal lawyer but who had never previously worked as a federal prosecutor.

Halligan presented the case to the grand jury herself, as she did in the case against Comey, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press.

In a lengthy statement, James decried the indictment as “nothing more than a continuation of the president’s desperate weaponization of our justice system.”

“These charges are baseless, and the president’s own public statements make clear that his only goal is political retribution at any cost. The president’s actions are a grave violation of our Constitutional order and have drawn sharp criticism from members of both parties,” she added.

She called the decision to fire Siebert and replace him with a prosecutor who is “blindly loyal” to the president as “antithetical to the bedrock principles of our country,” and she said she stood by her investigation of Trump and his company as having been “based on the facts and evidence — not politics.”

“No one is above the law. The charges as alleged in this case represent intentional, criminal acts and tremendous breaches of the public’s trust,” Halligan said in a statement. “The facts and the law in this case are clear, and we will continue following them to ensure that justice is served.”

Trump has been advocating charging James for months, posting on social media without citing any evidence that she’s “guilty as hell” and telling reporters at the White House, “It looks to me like she’s really guilty of something, but I really don’t know.”

Her lawyer has accused the Justice Department of concocting a bogus criminal case to settle Trump’s personal vendetta against James, who last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-civil-fraud-trial-feb0593a5bbd3837edc0db195554eda1">won a staggering judgment</a>&nbsp;against Trump and his companies in a lawsuit alleging he lied to banks and others about the value of his assets.

The Justice Department has also been investigating mortgage-related allegations against Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook, using the probe to demand her ouster, and Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., whose lawyer called the allegations against him “transparently false, stale, and long debunked.”

But James is a particularly personal target. As attorney general, she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-new-york-letitia-james-lawsuit-a3a2c2569440c24bd5c5262103cb8390">sued the Republican president and his administration</a>&nbsp;dozens of times and oversaw a lawsuit accusing him of defrauding banks by dramatically overstating the value of his real estate holdings on financial statements.

An appeals court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-civil-fraud-appeal-letitia-james-8bc9e5ea0affc635c731e96448f69642">overturned the fine</a>, which had ballooned to more than $500 million with interest, but upheld a lower court’s finding that Trump had committed fraud.

The Justice Department probe began after Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte sent a letter in April to Attorney General Pam Bondi, asking her to investigate James over her role in the 2023 purchase of a house in Norfolk, Virginia.

In seeking the investigation, Pulte cited a two-page power-of-attorney form that James signed on Aug. 17, 2023, which states, “I intend to occupy this property as my principal residence.” He speculated that claiming the house as her primary residence might have allowed James to avoid higher interest rates that often apply to second homes.

James’ lawyer, Abbe Lowell, said the Democrat never misled anyone. James has said that she made an error while filling out a form related to the home purchase, but quickly rectified it and didn’t deceive the lender.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760044412233.png" alt="File photo New York Attorney General Letitia James- courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo New York Attorney General Letitia James- courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — New York Attorney General&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/letitia-james">Letitia James</a>&nbsp;was charged Thursday as part of a mortgage fraud investigation aggressively pushed by the Trump administration, becoming the latest foe of the president to be prosecuted by his Justice Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708120507527.png" alt="Donald Trump's social media account referenced&nbsp;Letitia James in February 2024. In August of 2025, an appeals court threw out the massive civil fraud penalty" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump's social media account referenced&nbsp;Letitia James in February 2024. In August of 2025, an appeals court threw out the massive civil fraud penalty</figcaption>
 </figure>James, who infuriated President Donald Trump by suing him and his company for fraud in a case that played out as he was running for office, was indicted on charges of bank fraud and false statements to a financial institution following a presentation to a grand jury in Virginia by a prosecutor who was hastily appointed last month amid Trump administration pressure to deliver criminal cases against his adversaries.The indictment, two weeks after a separate criminal case charging&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/james-comey-charged-lying-congress-a2c72e1a5bb73d588f3af7fdb56caa82">former FBI Director James Comey</a>&nbsp;with lying to Congress, is the latest indication of the Trump administration’s norm-busting determination to use the law enforcement powers of the Justice Department to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-comey-justice-department-james-schiff-309c573c2d9d16839afabb3af56ef2f8">pursue the president’s political foes</a>&nbsp;and public figures who once investigated him.Both the Comey and James cases followed a strikingly unconventional paths toward indictment, with the Trump administration last month pushing out Erik Siebert, the veteran prosecutor who had overseen both investigations for months and had resisted pressure to file charges and replaced him with Lindsey Halligan, a White House aide who was once Trump’s personal lawyer but who had never previously worked as a federal prosecutor.Halligan presented the case to the grand jury herself, as she did in the case against Comey, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press.In a lengthy statement, James decried the indictment as “nothing more than a continuation of the president’s desperate weaponization of our justice system.”“These charges are baseless, and the president’s own public statements make clear that his only goal is political retribution at any cost. The president’s actions are a grave violation of our Constitutional order and have drawn sharp criticism from members of both parties,” she added.She called the decision to fire Siebert and replace him with a prosecutor who is “blindly loyal” to the president as “antithetical to the bedrock principles of our country,” and she said she stood by her investigation of Trump and his company as having been “based on the facts and evidence — not politics.”“No one is above the law. The charges as alleged in this case represent intentional, criminal acts and tremendous breaches of the public’s trust,” Halligan said in a statement. “The facts and the law in this case are clear, and we will continue following them to ensure that justice is served.”Trump has been advocating charging James for months, posting on social media without citing any evidence that she’s “guilty as hell” and telling reporters at the White House, “It looks to me like she’s really guilty of something, but I really don’t know.”Her lawyer has accused the Justice Department of concocting a bogus criminal case to settle Trump’s personal vendetta against James, who last year&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-civil-fraud-trial-feb0593a5bbd3837edc0db195554eda1">won a staggering judgment</a>&nbsp;against Trump and his companies in a lawsuit alleging he lied to banks and others about the value of his assets.The Justice Department has also been investigating mortgage-related allegations against Federal Reserve board member Lisa Cook, using the probe to demand her ouster, and Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., whose lawyer called the allegations against him “transparently false, stale, and long debunked.”But James is a particularly personal target. As attorney general, she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fraud-new-york-letitia-james-lawsuit-a3a2c2569440c24bd5c5262103cb8390">sued the Republican president and his administration</a>&nbsp;dozens of times and oversaw a lawsuit accusing him of defrauding banks by dramatically overstating the value of his real estate holdings on financial statements.An appeals court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-civil-fraud-appeal-letitia-james-8bc9e5ea0affc635c731e96448f69642">overturned the fine</a>, which had ballooned to more than $500 million with interest, but upheld a lower court’s finding that Trump had committed fraud.The Justice Department probe began after Federal Housing Finance Agency Director William Pulte sent a letter in April to Attorney General Pam Bondi, asking her to investigate James over her role in the 2023 purchase of a house in Norfolk, Virginia.In seeking the investigation, Pulte cited a two-page power-of-attorney form that James signed on Aug. 17, 2023, which states, “I intend to occupy this property as my principal residence.” He speculated that claiming the house as her primary residence might have allowed James to avoid higher interest rates that often apply to second homes.James’ lawyer, Abbe Lowell, said the Democrat never misled anyone. James has said that she made an error while filling out a form related to the home purchase, but quickly rectified it and didn’t deceive the lender.

New York AG, longtime Trump foe, indicted for bank fraud 

KANSAS CITY —Police have identified the man who died in a pedestrian accident just before 4p.m. Tuesday in Kansas City as 67-year-old&nbsp;Stewart Edward Jr., according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

A gold Ford F150 was eastbound on 31st Street&nbsp; Just east of Mersington Street, Edward ran into the roadway from the grassy area located next to the parking lot of the Family Dollar Store.

The pickup struck him and he was thrown to the pavement. The driver of the pickup stopped immediately, remained at the scene, cooperated fully with the investigation, and was not impaired. 

KCFD EMS transported Edward to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. He was subsequently pronounced deceased by hospital staff shortly after arrival. This is fatality #52 compared to #73 at this time last year, according to Becchina.

KANSAS CITY —Police have identified the man who died in a pedestrian accident just before 4p.m. Tuesday in Kansas City as 67-year-old&nbsp;Stewart Edward Jr., according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.A gold Ford F150 was eastbound on 31st Street&nbsp; Just east of Mersington Street, Edward ran into the roadway from the grassy area located next to the parking lot of the Family Dollar Store.The pickup struck him and he was thrown to the pavement. The driver of the pickup stopped immediately, remained at the scene, cooperated fully with the investigation, and was not impaired. KCFD EMS transported Edward to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. He was subsequently pronounced deceased by hospital staff shortly after arrival. This is fatality #52 compared to #73 at this time last year, according to Becchina.

Police ID man killed running into street from KC store parking area

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.

World leaders express hope after Israel and Hamas agree to first phase of peace deal

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon wounded by police following a domestic violence call to a home in Wichita will return to court Thursday.

Daniel James Gabor, 31, will attend a plea hearing in Judge&nbsp;Quentin Pittman's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He has been charged with aggravated kidnapping, one count of aggravated domestic battery, one count of domestic battery, one count of interference with law enforcement, and one count of violating a protection order.

Just before 4:30 a.m., June 20, the Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a 911 call with a woman screaming in the background. The open-line call was traced to a moving location, and Wichita police officers were dispatched to what sounded like an active disturbance without a specific location.

By 4:30 a.m., the phone’s signal stopped in the 4600 block of West 37th Street South, where officers responded.

Officers found a vehicle stopped along the side of the street and saw a man later identified as 31-year-old Daniel James Gabor assaulting a woman in the front seat. During the encounter, an officer fired two rounds, striking&nbsp; Gabor in the upper arm. Gabor then drove off with the woman still inside the vehicle.

He later crashed in a construction area near K-42 highway and West Street. Officers responded, provided medical aid, and Sedgwick County EMS transported Gaabor to a Wichita hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Officers also assisted the woman, who sustained minor injuries but declined transport to a medical facility by EMS.

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division investigated both the officer-involved shooting and the original disturbance. Investigators are treating the two incidents as separate but related cases.

Detectives confirmed that Gabor and woman were in a domestic relationship. Gabor has a 2024 conviction for two counts of domestic battery and one count of criminal restraint through Harvey County District Court.

Following his release from the hospital, detectives booked Gabor into the Sedgwick County Jail. He is being held on bonds totaling $375,000, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750427350550.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon wounded by police following a domestic violence call to a home in Wichita will return to court Thursday.Daniel James Gabor, 31, will attend a plea hearing in Judge&nbsp;Quentin Pittman's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He has been charged with aggravated kidnapping, one count of aggravated domestic battery, one count of domestic battery, one count of interference with law enforcement, and one count of violating a protection order.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750873007733.png" alt="Gabor photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Gabor photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 4:30 a.m., June 20, the Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a 911 call with a woman screaming in the background. The open-line call was traced to a moving location, and Wichita police officers were dispatched to what sounded like an active disturbance without a specific location.By 4:30 a.m., the phone’s signal stopped in the 4600 block of West 37th Street South, where officers responded.Officers found a vehicle stopped along the side of the street and saw a man later identified as 31-year-old Daniel James Gabor assaulting a woman in the front seat. During the encounter, an officer fired two rounds, striking&nbsp; Gabor in the upper arm. Gabor then drove off with the woman still inside the vehicle.He later crashed in a construction area near K-42 highway and West Street. Officers responded, provided medical aid, and Sedgwick County EMS transported Gaabor to a Wichita hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Officers also assisted the woman, who sustained minor injuries but declined transport to a medical facility by EMS.Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division investigated both the officer-involved shooting and the original disturbance. Investigators are treating the two incidents as separate but related cases.Detectives confirmed that Gabor and woman were in a domestic relationship. Gabor has a 2024 conviction for two counts of domestic battery and one count of criminal restraint through Harvey County District Court.Following his release from the hospital, detectives booked Gabor into the Sedgwick County Jail. He is being held on bonds totaling $375,000, according to online jail records.

Plea hearing for Kan. felon injured in officer involved shooting

A mid-decade battle over congressional redistricting is playing out in state capitals, in courtrooms and on the ballot.

The efforts to redraw U.S. House districts for partisan advantage got jump-started when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-congress-house-republicans-texas-redistricting-d18e8280a32872d9eefcbb26f66a0331">President Donald Trump called upon</a>&nbsp;Republican-led Texas to reshape districts so that the GOP could win more seats in next year's elections.

Since then, lawmakers in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-california-redistricting-battle-f0ac783b6a5fd6ecaab0ca419125b72a">Democratic-led California</a>&nbsp;and Republican-led Missouri have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymander-trump-missouri-936e8daecadb32556fcfbd2eb9f7457b">approved revised districts</a>, and officials in more states are considering it. Utah's Republican-led Legislature endorsed an altered congressional map Monday — though in response to a court order, not Trump's demands.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-election-2026-texas-california-trump-1e23e2b3f8e09031cf1eee8979ff3559">U.S. House districts typically are redrawn</a>&nbsp;once a decade, immediately after a census. But some states have no prohibition on doing it more frequently. And the U.S. Supreme Court has said there is no federal prohibition on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gerrymandering-texas-congress-redistricting-0c751f48a7757fc11214472944670413">political gerrymandering</a>, in which districts are intentionally drawn to favor one party.

The stakes are high, because Democrats need to gain just three seats in the 2026 elections to take control of the House, which would allow them to impede Trump's agenda. The president's party historically has lost seats in midterm elections, a fate Trump is trying to avoid.

Kansas Republicans may call themselves into session

Republican lawmakers who hold a supermajority in the Kansas Legislature have been gathering petition signatures from colleagues in an attempt to call a special session on congressional redistricting in November. They are taking that route because Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly is unlikely to call a special session.

Republicans already hold three of the state’s four congressional districts. A revised map would target the suburban Kansas City district held by Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids.

Texas judges hear legal challenge to new districts

Federal judges in Texas are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-texas-elections-2026-trump-5e67fa8cccda52c4c4af22178db6a2de">considering a legal challenge</a>&nbsp;to new congressional districts passed at Trump’s urging during a special legislative session in August. Civil rights groups and dozens of Black and Hispanic voters contend the new map intentionally reduces minority voters’ influence in violation of the 1965 Voting Rights Act and the U.S. Constitution. They want to prevent the new districts from being used.

Republicans hold 25 of the 38 congressional seats in Texas. The revised map could give Republicans a shot at picking up five additional seats in next year’s elections.

California voters are deciding on new House districts

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-house-trump-newsom-democrats-republicans-43868bbcfb81cf2b1ef5d2862b2665a9">Voting began Monday in California</a>&nbsp;in advance of a Nov. 4 election that will determine whether new congressional districts are implemented.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755376975176.png" alt="Kansas congressional districts" />
 <figcaption>Kansas congressional districts</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID A. LIEB Associated PressA mid-decade battle over congressional redistricting is playing out in state capitals, in courtrooms and on the ballot.The efforts to redraw U.S. House districts for partisan advantage got jump-started when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-congress-house-republicans-texas-redistricting-d18e8280a32872d9eefcbb26f66a0331">President Donald Trump called upon</a>&nbsp;Republican-led Texas to reshape districts so that the GOP could win more seats in next year's elections.Since then, lawmakers in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-california-redistricting-battle-f0ac783b6a5fd6ecaab0ca419125b72a">Democratic-led California</a>&nbsp;and Republican-led Missouri have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymander-trump-missouri-936e8daecadb32556fcfbd2eb9f7457b">approved revised districts</a>, and officials in more states are considering it. Utah's Republican-led Legislature endorsed an altered congressional map Monday — though in response to a court order, not Trump's demands.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-election-2026-texas-california-trump-1e23e2b3f8e09031cf1eee8979ff3559">U.S. House districts typically are redrawn</a>&nbsp;once a decade, immediately after a census. But some states have no prohibition on doing it more frequently. And the U.S. Supreme Court has said there is no federal prohibition on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gerrymandering-texas-congress-redistricting-0c751f48a7757fc11214472944670413">political gerrymandering</a>, in which districts are intentionally drawn to favor one party.The stakes are high, because Democrats need to gain just three seats in the 2026 elections to take control of the House, which would allow them to impede Trump's agenda. The president's party historically has lost seats in midterm elections, a fate Trump is trying to avoid.<h2>Kansas Republicans may call themselves into session</h2>Republican lawmakers who hold a supermajority in the Kansas Legislature have been gathering petition signatures from colleagues in an attempt to call a special session on congressional redistricting in November. They are taking that route because Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly is unlikely to call a special session.Republicans already hold three of the state’s four congressional districts. A revised map would target the suburban Kansas City district held by Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids.<h2>Texas judges hear legal challenge to new districts</h2>Federal judges in Texas are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-texas-elections-2026-trump-5e67fa8cccda52c4c4af22178db6a2de">considering a legal challenge</a>&nbsp;to new congressional districts passed at Trump’s urging during a special legislative session in August. Civil rights groups and dozens of Black and Hispanic voters contend the new map intentionally reduces minority voters’ influence in violation of the 1965 Voting Rights Act and the U.S. Constitution. They want to prevent the new districts from being used.Republicans hold 25 of the 38 congressional seats in Texas. The revised map could give Republicans a shot at picking up five additional seats in next year’s elections.<h2>California voters are deciding on new House districts</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/california-house-trump-newsom-democrats-republicans-43868bbcfb81cf2b1ef5d2862b2665a9">Voting began Monday in California</a>&nbsp;in advance of a Nov. 4 election that will determine whether new congressional districts are implemented.Democrats already hold 43 of California’s 52 seats. But after Texas undertook redistricting, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom urged California lawmakers to reciprocate. They did so by passing a revised U.S. House map that could give Democrats a chance to gain five additional seats.Unlike Texas, California has an independent citizens’ commission that handles redistricting after the census. So any changes to the map need voter approval.<h2>Missouri redistricting faces potential referendum</h2>After Texas and California took action, Missouri lawmakers joined the redistricting battle by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-redistricting-trump-republicans-a89de205d535c8a8cd6054ed191b161c">passing a revised U.S. House</a>&nbsp;map designed to give Republicans a shot at winning seven of the state’s eight districts — one more than they currently hold. The map targets a seat held by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymander-trump-missouri-936e8daecadb32556fcfbd2eb9f7457b">Democratic Rep. Emanuel Cleaver</a>&nbsp;by stretching the Kansas City-based district into rural Republican areas and reducing the number of minority voters.Opponents are pursuing a referendum petition that, if successful, would force a statewide vote on the new map. Opponents also have filed several lawsuits asserting that mid-decade redistricting isn't allowed under the state constitution.<h2>Utah lawmakers back new US House map</h2>Utah's Republican-led Legislature passed a revised U.S. House map Monday that could give Democrats an improved chance at competing for a seat. Republicans currently hold all four of the state's seats.The revised map would place Democratic-leaning Salt Lake City in a single district that stretches into rural areas, instead of splitting the city among multiple districts. But the revision still must be reviewed by a judge, who is expected to approve a new map by November.A Utah judge in August&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-redistricting-congressional-map-gerrymandering-a6722505b8e76eda5c73fc346eadd9aa">struck down the House districts</a>&nbsp;adopted after the 2020 census because the Republican-led Legislature circumvented an independent redistricting commission established by voters.<h2>Indiana governor says redistricting session is probable</h2>Republican Gov. Mike Braun has said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pete-buttigieg-rallies-against-indiana-redistricting-39df541f8d37505ccd9a5d055e40078f">a legislative session on redistricting</a>&nbsp;probably will happen, potentially as soon as November. Republican legislative leaders have met privately with Trump. But Braun has been waiting to call a special session until he is confident it will succeed.Republicans hold a 7-2 edge over Democrats in Indiana’s congressional delegation. The GOP likely would target a northwest Indiana seat held by Democratic Rep. Frank Mrvan. They also could attempt to slice up an Indianapolis district held by a Democrat, but that could stir opposition by diluting minority voters' influence.<h2>Ohio must redraw its maps before the 2026 midterms</h2>Ohio will have new U.S. House districts for the 2026 elections, though their shape remains to be determined. Republicans currently hold 10 of the state's 15 congressional seats.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-ohio-state-government-01117758be7ece7ce12ebc04baa0ce05">Ohio’s constitution requires</a>&nbsp;new U.S. House districts because the ones adopted by Republican officials after the 2020 census didn’t have sufficient bipartisan support. If bipartisan consensus remains elusive, Republican lawmakers in November could adopt revised districts without need of any Democratic votes.<h2>Maryland Democrats are proposing new districts</h2>Some Democratic state lawmakers have said they will file redistricting legislation for the 2026 session, and Democratic Gov. Wes Moore also has expressed support.“If we are going to have states in mid-cycle, in mid-decade, determining whether or not they have fair maps or not, then so will Maryland. Then, we should have that conversation, too,” Moore said last week.Democrats control seven of the state’s eight U.S. House seats and could target an eastern Maryland district held by Republican Rep. Andy Harris.<h2>Revised Louisiana districts hinge on a court case</h2>The U.S. Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments Oct. 15 in a legal challenge to Louisiana's U.S. House districts, currently held by four white Republicans and two Black Democrats. A lawsuit contends state lawmakers wrongly used racial demographics when redrawing districts in response to a previous court ruling to give Black voters a better chance at electing the representative of their choice in two districts instead of one.State lawmakers have been told to keep their calendars open between Oct. 23 and Nov. 13 in case the Supreme Court rules quickly and lawmakers could return for a special session on redistricting.<h2>A trio of highly populated states have talked about redistricting</h2>Officials Florida, Illinois and New York all have raised the possibility of redrawing U.S. House districts.Republican Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez has created a special committee to look into redistricting. Republicans currently hold 20 of the state's 28 seats.Democrats already hold 14 of the 17 U.S. House seats in Illinois. But Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker has said it’s possible to redraw even more districts favoring Democrats.New York has an independent commission that redraws districts after every census. State Democrats have introduced legislation to allow mid-decade redistricting, but the soonest new maps could be in place would be for the 2028 elections. That is because the proposal would require an amendment to the state constitution, a change that would have to pass the Legislature twice and be approved by voters.