By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/sean-murphy">SEAN MURPHY</a> Associated Press

An Arkansas man&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arkansas-father-sheriff-candidate-daughter-shooting-9daf9a7b2b1947cfd3de81c4439c8cf0">accused of killing</a>&nbsp;his teenage daughter’s alleged abuser won the Republican nomination for local sheriff while waiting to stand trial for murder in his rural county, where he ran on a message of seeing the failures of law enforcement.

Aaron Spencer defeated Lonoke County Sheriff John Staley in Tuesday’s primary elections, according to unofficial results posted by the Arkansas secretary of state. He would not be able to serve if he is convicted of killing Michael Fosler, 67, who at the time was out on bond after being charged with numerous sexual offenses against Spencer’s then-13-year-old daughter.

Spencer’s attorneys do not deny that he shot and killed Fosler but maintain he acted within the law to protect his child from a predator.

Spencer won more than 53% of the vote with all precincts reporting, according to unofficial results. Staley, whose department arrested Spencer in 2024, conceded the loss.

“Congratulations to Mr. Spencer. Tonight the voters made their decision in the Republican Primary, and I respect the decision,” Staley said in a statement posted on Facebook.

Spencer said in a statement that his message of accountability resonated with voters.

“Tonight, the people of Lonoke County stood up and chose transparency and accountability,” Spencer said. “This wasn’t a campaign about me. It was about every family who called for help and got nothing. That betrayal ends tonight.”

He is now set to face Democrat Brian Mitchell Sr. in the heavily Republican county in November.

Spencer has pleaded not guilty and is out on bond while awaiting trial, which was originally scheduled to start in January. The trial was delayed after the presiding judge was removed from the case. A new date has not been set.

Court documents show that on the night of the October 2024 shooting, Spencer woke up to find his daughter missing from her bedroom and went searching for her in his truck. He found the girl in the passenger seat of a vehicle Fosler was driving. Spencer eventually forced Fosler’s truck off the highway and, after an altercation, called 911 to report he had shot the man, records show.

Prosecutors argue Spencer had planned to kill Fosler even before that night and that he could have called police while pursuing Fosler.

Spencer’s attorney, Erin Cassinelli, wrote in an email to The Associated Press that the election results have no bearing on the facts of the case.

“Aaron Spencer did exactly what the law allows and exactly what any father would do: he protected his daughter and himself from harm,” Cassinelli said. “At some point, those responsible for this prosecution will have to reckon with that.”

Spencer pledged in a Facebook post last month that if elected he would establish a dedicated team to combat sex crimes against children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772659048041.png" alt="Aaron Spencer" />
 <figcaption>Aaron Spencer</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/sean-murphy">SEAN MURPHY</a> Associated PressAn Arkansas man&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arkansas-father-sheriff-candidate-daughter-shooting-9daf9a7b2b1947cfd3de81c4439c8cf0">accused of killing</a>&nbsp;his teenage daughter’s alleged abuser won the Republican nomination for local sheriff while waiting to stand trial for murder in his rural county, where he ran on a message of seeing the failures of law enforcement.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lonoke County sent a clear message last night, and we&#39;re just getting started. I&#39;m running to restore accountability and integrity to the Sheriff&#39;s Office, and the people of this county just showed they want the same thing. Help us deliver a safer and stronger Lonoke below ⬇️&mdash; Aaron Spencer (@Spencer4Sheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/Spencer4Sheriff/status/2029291381445853649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Aaron Spencer defeated Lonoke County Sheriff John Staley in Tuesday’s primary elections, according to unofficial results posted by the Arkansas secretary of state. He would not be able to serve if he is convicted of killing Michael Fosler, 67, who at the time was out on bond after being charged with numerous sexual offenses against Spencer’s then-13-year-old daughter.Spencer’s attorneys do not deny that he shot and killed Fosler but maintain he acted within the law to protect his child from a predator.Spencer won more than 53% of the vote with all precincts reporting, according to unofficial results. Staley, whose department arrested Spencer in 2024, conceded the loss.“Congratulations to Mr. Spencer. Tonight the voters made their decision in the Republican Primary, and I respect the decision,” Staley said in a statement posted on Facebook.Spencer said in a statement that his message of accountability resonated with voters.“Tonight, the people of Lonoke County stood up and chose transparency and accountability,” Spencer said. “This wasn’t a campaign about me. It was about every family who called for help and got nothing. That betrayal ends tonight.”He is now set to face Democrat Brian Mitchell Sr. in the heavily Republican county in November.Spencer has pleaded not guilty and is out on bond while awaiting trial, which was originally scheduled to start in January. The trial was delayed after the presiding judge was removed from the case. A new date has not been set.Court documents show that on the night of the October 2024 shooting, Spencer woke up to find his daughter missing from her bedroom and went searching for her in his truck. He found the girl in the passenger seat of a vehicle Fosler was driving. Spencer eventually forced Fosler’s truck off the highway and, after an altercation, called 911 to report he had shot the man, records show.Prosecutors argue Spencer had planned to kill Fosler even before that night and that he could have called police while pursuing Fosler.Spencer’s attorney, Erin Cassinelli, wrote in an email to The Associated Press that the election results have no bearing on the facts of the case.“Aaron Spencer did exactly what the law allows and exactly what any father would do: he protected his daughter and himself from harm,” Cassinelli said. “At some point, those responsible for this prosecution will have to reckon with that.”Spencer pledged in a Facebook post last month that if elected he would establish a dedicated team to combat sex crimes against children.

Man accused of killing daughter's alleged abuser wins GOP sheriff's nomination

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court Justice Marla Luckert will retire later this month, an announcement from the court said.

Luckert&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/physicians-link-kansas-supreme-court-chief-justices-vehicle-accident-to-likely-stroke/">suffered a stroke</a>&nbsp;in October that led to a car accident. She relinquished public-facing duties before deciding in December to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/19/kansas-supreme-court-chief-justice-to-retire-by-early-february/">step down from her position as chief justice</a>. She will abdicate her seat on the court on March 28.

“It has been my profound honor to serve the people of Kansas as a district court judge and Supreme Court justice the last 34 years,” Luckert said in a Tuesday press release. “Growing up in Goodland, I did not imagine I would one day serve on our state’s highest court, and I hope the blessings in my life inspire young women to reach for goals that may seem unattainable.”

Luckert spent 23 years on the Kansas Supreme Court. She previously was a Shawnee County district judge and the first woman in Kansas to be a chief district judge. Former Gov. Bill Graves appointed Luckert to the Supreme Court in 2003, and she became chief justice in 2019.

Under her guidance, the court prioritized collaboration among the three branches of government in addressing statewide issues such as&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/04/13/leaders-of-kansas-three-government-branches-coalesce-behind-quest-to-fix-mental-health-crisis/">mental health crises</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/22/kansas-supreme-court-plans-child-welfare-summit-to-forge-better-paths-forward/">child welfare</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/01/kansas-supreme-court-justice-tackles-states-severe-shortage-of-rural-attorneys/">rural attorney shortages</a>.

She saw the court through a pandemic,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/computer-network-woes-force-kansas-courts-to-rely-on-old-school-methods-of-operation/">technology</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/10/kansas-chief-justice-blames-russian-ransomware-hackers-for-disabling-courts-electronic-systems/">woes</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/11/21/kansas-court-officials-confirm-details-of-evil-criminal-international-cyberattack/">cyber attack</a>, and her court issued landmark decisions on&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/06/kansas-supreme-court-ends-five-year-hold-on-jurisdiction-of-public-school-funding-case/">education funding</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/20/kill-an-ant-with-an-atom-bomb-kansas-supreme-court-talks-election-case/">voting rights</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/05/kansas-supreme-court-strikes-down-state-law-banning-second-trimester-abortion-procedure/">abortion</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/19/kansas-supreme-court-affirms-death-penalty-conviction-in-quadruple-murder-case/">death penalty</a>.

Justice Eric Rosen&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/08/kansas-supreme-court-justice-eric-rosen-sworn-in-as-chief-of-states-highest-court/">took her place as chief</a>&nbsp;in January.

Luckert is the second justice in the past year to leave the bench, following&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-supreme-court-justice-to-step-down-citing-lou-gehrigs-disease/">Justice Evelyn Wilson’s retirement</a>&nbsp;in July because of a Lou Gehrig’s disease diagnosis. Justice Larkin Walsh took her place ahead in September and was&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/11/21/newest-addition-to-kansas-supreme-court-promises-to-be-the-justice-all-kansans-deserve/">formally sworn in</a>&nbsp;two months later.

Luckert’s replacement could be outgoing Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s final appointment to the court before Kelly leaves office in early 2027. The governor has appointed four others to the court during her two terms.

The replacement process likely will precede&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/07/rivals-launch-fight-over-kansas-constitutional-amendment-to-elect-supreme-court-justices/">an August ballot question</a>&nbsp;that will ask voters if they want to change the Kansas Supreme Court justice selection process from&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/">a merit-based application, nomination and appointment method</a>&nbsp;to a campaign-driven popular vote approach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772643447262.png" alt=" Kansas Supreme Court Justice Marla Luckert, left, suffered a stroke in October, leading to her impending retirement in March. She appears with Chief Justice Eric Rosen, who replaced her as chief justice at a swearing in ceremony on Jan. 8, 2026, at the Kansas Supreme Court building in Topeka. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Supreme Court Justice Marla Luckert, left, suffered a stroke in October, leading to her impending retirement in March. She appears with Chief Justice Eric Rosen, who replaced her as chief justice at a swearing in ceremony on Jan. 8, 2026, at the Kansas Supreme Court building in Topeka. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court Justice Marla Luckert will retire later this month, an announcement from the court said.Luckert&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/physicians-link-kansas-supreme-court-chief-justices-vehicle-accident-to-likely-stroke/">suffered a stroke</a>&nbsp;in October that led to a car accident. She relinquished public-facing duties before deciding in December to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/19/kansas-supreme-court-chief-justice-to-retire-by-early-february/">step down from her position as chief justice</a>. She will abdicate her seat on the court on March 28.“It has been my profound honor to serve the people of Kansas as a district court judge and Supreme Court justice the last 34 years,” Luckert said in a Tuesday press release. “Growing up in Goodland, I did not imagine I would one day serve on our state’s highest court, and I hope the blessings in my life inspire young women to reach for goals that may seem unattainable.”Luckert spent 23 years on the Kansas Supreme Court. She previously was a Shawnee County district judge and the first woman in Kansas to be a chief district judge. Former Gov. Bill Graves appointed Luckert to the Supreme Court in 2003, and she became chief justice in 2019.Under her guidance, the court prioritized collaboration among the three branches of government in addressing statewide issues such as&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/04/13/leaders-of-kansas-three-government-branches-coalesce-behind-quest-to-fix-mental-health-crisis/">mental health crises</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/22/kansas-supreme-court-plans-child-welfare-summit-to-forge-better-paths-forward/">child welfare</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/01/kansas-supreme-court-justice-tackles-states-severe-shortage-of-rural-attorneys/">rural attorney shortages</a>.She saw the court through a pandemic,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/computer-network-woes-force-kansas-courts-to-rely-on-old-school-methods-of-operation/">technology</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/10/kansas-chief-justice-blames-russian-ransomware-hackers-for-disabling-courts-electronic-systems/">woes</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/11/21/kansas-court-officials-confirm-details-of-evil-criminal-international-cyberattack/">cyber attack</a>, and her court issued landmark decisions on&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/06/kansas-supreme-court-ends-five-year-hold-on-jurisdiction-of-public-school-funding-case/">education funding</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/20/kill-an-ant-with-an-atom-bomb-kansas-supreme-court-talks-election-case/">voting rights</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/05/kansas-supreme-court-strikes-down-state-law-banning-second-trimester-abortion-procedure/">abortion</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/19/kansas-supreme-court-affirms-death-penalty-conviction-in-quadruple-murder-case/">death penalty</a>.Justice Eric Rosen&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/08/kansas-supreme-court-justice-eric-rosen-sworn-in-as-chief-of-states-highest-court/">took her place as chief</a>&nbsp;in January.Luckert is the second justice in the past year to leave the bench, following&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-supreme-court-justice-to-step-down-citing-lou-gehrigs-disease/">Justice Evelyn Wilson’s retirement</a>&nbsp;in July because of a Lou Gehrig’s disease diagnosis. Justice Larkin Walsh took her place ahead in September and was&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/11/21/newest-addition-to-kansas-supreme-court-promises-to-be-the-justice-all-kansans-deserve/">formally sworn in</a>&nbsp;two months later.Luckert’s replacement could be outgoing Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s final appointment to the court before Kelly leaves office in early 2027. The governor has appointed four others to the court during her two terms.The replacement process likely will precede&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/07/rivals-launch-fight-over-kansas-constitutional-amendment-to-elect-supreme-court-justices/">an August ballot question</a>&nbsp;that will ask voters if they want to change the Kansas Supreme Court justice selection process from&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/">a merit-based application, nomination and appointment method</a>&nbsp;to a campaign-driven popular vote approach.

Former Kansas Supreme Court chief justice to retire March 28

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle Media

Crude oil prices race to the skies, with fuel prices hot on their heels.&nbsp; Oil prices in New York vaulted more than six percent by dinner time on Monday and another seven percent by lunchtime on Tuesday. Offers on Tuesday ranged up to a high just under $78 a barrel, which would be a 19% increase over a week ago. Brent crude is also bounding, up ten percent in two days to just under $83 a barrel by tea time Tuesday.

Fuel prices jumped eleven cents in one day nationwide to $3.10 per gallon. Kansas pump prices jump nearly 13 cents to just under $2.70/gal. Diesel prices are up 17 cents from a week ago across the state ($3.525) and across the nation ($3.891).

A technical glitch that halted trading on expiry day sends a brief shock through the futures marketplace.&nbsp; The CME Group's Globex electronic trading platform went dark for some metals and all natural-gas futures last Wednesday. The company confirmed a full trading halt shortly after noon, its third significant breakdown in the last year. What the firm described as a "technical glitch" happened on expiry day, when futures contracts expire. Trading was halted and some orders were simply canceled at a time when many futures traders traditionally roll positions over into the next month. Despite the chaos, or perhaps because of it, natural gas prices settled nearly two percent higher.

The government reports the largest increase in crude-oil inventories in nearly six years. Commercial stockpiles increased 16 million barrels to just under 436 million. That's up nearly six million barrels from a year ago, but The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles remain about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. Strategic reserves are unchanged this week at just over 415 million barrels, up five percent from a year ago. Gasoline stockpiles were down slightly, while diesel fuel inventories rose. The government says demand for each is up slightly this week.

Refined petroleum product imports rose more than half a million daily barrels, surpassing two million barrels a day for the first time since last September. That marks a 40% increase from last week, a 22% &nbsp;bump over a year ago, and a 47% increase over two years ago. Petroleum product exports dipped by 350,000 barrels a day.

Crude imports increased slightly to just over 6.6 million barrels a day. The four-week average is up five percent from the same four weeks last year. Crude oil exports dropped by about a quarter million barrels a day to just over 4.3 million. The four-week average remains over four million.

US regulators last week released the final monthly oil production report for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million barrels per day.&nbsp; Kansas output in December averaged just under 68,000 barrels per day, down from just over 68,000 in November.&nbsp; For the year, the Sunflower State averaged just over 69-thousand barrels per day. That's down more than 4,000 barrels a day from the year before, according to the latest data from EIA.

Texas produced 5.7 million barrels per day last year. That's up more than half a million barrels a day from the year before and accounts for more than 41 percent of output nationwide. EIA reports New Mexico finished the year at 2.24 million barrels day, an increase of nearly a quarter million daily barrels. The report from North Dakota dropped slightly to 1.15 million barrels a day in annual output last year. Regulators in North Dakota report a steeper drop in output in December.

Operators in Kansas have drilled 69 wells from spud to completion this year, down 43% from the tally of 121 a year ago. Total footage drilled lags behind last year by 59%.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service reports oilfield activity remains sluggish, down an average of 46% from a year ago. The Kansas Rig Count is unchanged from last week with three active rigs east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas. That's down 38 percent from a month ago and 46 percent from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Rooks and Finney County, and was about to begin on a lease in Gove County.

Regulators report 36 new intent-to-drill notices across the state of Kansas, for a total of 78 so far this year. That's down from 119 by the end of February last year and 144 the year before that. The search engine on the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site returns ten new intent-to-drill notices in Linn County, and five in Rooks County. Stafford County adds two. Gove and Finney counties each add one.

Kansas regulators okayed seven new drilling sites this week, all of them in Western Kansas, including two in Rooks County and two in Graham County. That's 60 new permits this year, compared to 109 last year at this time.

Independent Oil and Gas Service reports four completions this week, all in the eastern half of the state, with one in Johnson County, and three in Woodson County. That's 108 completions this calendar year, compared to 211 last year at this time.

US crude production this week drops slightly, due largely to a weather outage in Alaska, but remains over 13.7 million barrels a day for a third week in a row. Production over the last four weeks averages just under 13.6 million barrels a day. Cumulative output so far this year is over 13.6 million, an increase of 1.5% from a year ago.

US regulators last week released the final monthly oil-production tally for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million.

The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes increases by one gas rig, but drops by two oil rigs, for a total of 550 rigs. That's down 43 drilling rigs from last year at this time. The tally in the prolific Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico is 240 rigs, up one for the week but down 65 rigs from a year ago.

In the decade since our first exports of Liquefied Natural Gas, the United States has gone from 500 Million cubic feet per day in 2016, to over 15 billion cubic feet per day last year. Today, the US is the world’s largest LNG exporter, ahead of both Australia and Qatar. The Energy Information Administration now forecasts US exports over 18 billion cubic feet per day by the end of next year.

A major winter cold snap cuts into oil and gas production in North Dakota, the number-three US producer. The Department of Mineral Resources reports a six-percent drop in December oil output, and a six percent in drop in natural gas. Oil output dips to 34.7 million barrels, or 1.12 Million barrels per day. That's down 76,000 barrels a day from the month before. The number of producing wells in North Dakota continues to drop from the all-time high reached in October, dipping another 172 wells in December. The number of inactive wells rose by more than six hundred.

North Dakota natural gas production dropped six percent. The amount of gas that was flared, or burned off at the well head, is down 9%. The gas-capture rate, the amount of gas captured on site and marketed, held steady at 95.2%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684775008059.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBAR Eagle MediaCrude oil prices race to the skies, with fuel prices hot on their heels.&nbsp; Oil prices in New York vaulted more than six percent by dinner time on Monday and another seven percent by lunchtime on Tuesday. Offers on Tuesday ranged up to a high just under $78 a barrel, which would be a 19% increase over a week ago. Brent crude is also bounding, up ten percent in two days to just under $83 a barrel by tea time Tuesday.Fuel prices jumped eleven cents in one day nationwide to $3.10 per gallon. Kansas pump prices jump nearly 13 cents to just under $2.70/gal. Diesel prices are up 17 cents from a week ago across the state ($3.525) and across the nation ($3.891).A technical glitch that halted trading on expiry day sends a brief shock through the futures marketplace.&nbsp; The CME Group's Globex electronic trading platform went dark for some metals and all natural-gas futures last Wednesday. The company confirmed a full trading halt shortly after noon, its third significant breakdown in the last year. What the firm described as a "technical glitch" happened on expiry day, when futures contracts expire. Trading was halted and some orders were simply canceled at a time when many futures traders traditionally roll positions over into the next month. Despite the chaos, or perhaps because of it, natural gas prices settled nearly two percent higher.The government reports the largest increase in crude-oil inventories in nearly six years. Commercial stockpiles increased 16 million barrels to just under 436 million. That's up nearly six million barrels from a year ago, but The Energy Information Administration says stockpiles remain about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. Strategic reserves are unchanged this week at just over 415 million barrels, up five percent from a year ago. Gasoline stockpiles were down slightly, while diesel fuel inventories rose. The government says demand for each is up slightly this week.Refined petroleum product imports rose more than half a million daily barrels, surpassing two million barrels a day for the first time since last September. That marks a 40% increase from last week, a 22% &nbsp;bump over a year ago, and a 47% increase over two years ago. Petroleum product exports dipped by 350,000 barrels a day.Crude imports increased slightly to just over 6.6 million barrels a day. The four-week average is up five percent from the same four weeks last year. Crude oil exports dropped by about a quarter million barrels a day to just over 4.3 million. The four-week average remains over four million.US regulators last week released the final monthly oil production report for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million barrels per day.&nbsp; Kansas output in December averaged just under 68,000 barrels per day, down from just over 68,000 in November.&nbsp; For the year, the Sunflower State averaged just over 69-thousand barrels per day. That's down more than 4,000 barrels a day from the year before, according to the latest data from EIA.Texas produced 5.7 million barrels per day last year. That's up more than half a million barrels a day from the year before and accounts for more than 41 percent of output nationwide. EIA reports New Mexico finished the year at 2.24 million barrels day, an increase of nearly a quarter million daily barrels. The report from North Dakota dropped slightly to 1.15 million barrels a day in annual output last year. Regulators in North Dakota report a steeper drop in output in December.Operators in Kansas have drilled 69 wells from spud to completion this year, down 43% from the tally of 121 a year ago. Total footage drilled lags behind last year by 59%.&nbsp; Independent Oil and Gas Service reports oilfield activity remains sluggish, down an average of 46% from a year ago. The Kansas Rig Count is unchanged from last week with three active rigs east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas. That's down 38 percent from a month ago and 46 percent from a year ago. Drilling was underway Friday on leases in Rooks and Finney County, and was about to begin on a lease in Gove County.Regulators report 36 new intent-to-drill notices across the state of Kansas, for a total of 78 so far this year. That's down from 119 by the end of February last year and 144 the year before that. The search engine on the Kansas Corporation Commission Web site returns ten new intent-to-drill notices in Linn County, and five in Rooks County. Stafford County adds two. Gove and Finney counties each add one.Kansas regulators okayed seven new drilling sites this week, all of them in Western Kansas, including two in Rooks County and two in Graham County. That's 60 new permits this year, compared to 109 last year at this time.Independent Oil and Gas Service reports four completions this week, all in the eastern half of the state, with one in Johnson County, and three in Woodson County. That's 108 completions this calendar year, compared to 211 last year at this time.US crude production this week drops slightly, due largely to a weather outage in Alaska, but remains over 13.7 million barrels a day for a third week in a row. Production over the last four weeks averages just under 13.6 million barrels a day. Cumulative output so far this year is over 13.6 million, an increase of 1.5% from a year ago.US regulators last week released the final monthly oil-production tally for the year 2025. Domestic operators pumped over 423 million barrels in December, for a daily average of 13.6 million barrels. For the year, output dropped to just under 13.6 million.The Rotary Rig Count from Baker Hughes increases by one gas rig, but drops by two oil rigs, for a total of 550 rigs. That's down 43 drilling rigs from last year at this time. The tally in the prolific Permian Basin in Texas and New Mexico is 240 rigs, up one for the week but down 65 rigs from a year ago.In the decade since our first exports of Liquefied Natural Gas, the United States has gone from 500 Million cubic feet per day in 2016, to over 15 billion cubic feet per day last year. Today, the US is the world’s largest LNG exporter, ahead of both Australia and Qatar. The Energy Information Administration now forecasts US exports over 18 billion cubic feet per day by the end of next year.A major winter cold snap cuts into oil and gas production in North Dakota, the number-three US producer. The Department of Mineral Resources reports a six-percent drop in December oil output, and a six percent in drop in natural gas. Oil output dips to 34.7 million barrels, or 1.12 Million barrels per day. That's down 76,000 barrels a day from the month before. The number of producing wells in North Dakota continues to drop from the all-time high reached in October, dipping another 172 wells in December. The number of inactive wells rose by more than six hundred.North Dakota natural gas production dropped six percent. The amount of gas that was flared, or burned off at the well head, is down 9%. The gas-capture rate, the amount of gas captured on site and marketed, held steady at 95.2%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

News from the Oil Patch: Crude, pump prices skyrocket

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

Plainville USD 270 voters will decide on Tuesday, March 3, on a bond proposal totaling about $12.5 million.

If approved, the bond would fund improvements at Plainville Elementary School and Plainville Junior-Senior High School. The proposal will appear as a two-question ballot, with each question addressing a separate group of projects.

Question one focuses on facility upgrades and major replacements of building systems. The projects include renovations at both schools, such as HVAC, electrical updates, LED lighting installation, restrooms and replacing the more than 30-year-old roof.

Question two covers additional upgrades, including further renovations to classrooms and entrances at both schools. It also proposes improvements to the Rock Gym and Cardinal Gym.

Proposition one totals $5.49 million and proposition two totals $7.05 million. Both would be repaid over 30 years.

District voters may approve or reject both proposals. However, USD 270 Superintendent Chris Rinehart said proposition two can only take effect if proposition one is approved. If proposal one passes, voters may then choose whether to approve proposal two.

"From my seat as superintendent, I definitely see both questions as addressing high priorities in my mind," he said.&nbsp;

According to a <a href="https://www.plainville270bond.net/">USD 270 website explaining the proposal</a>, Kansas law restricts bond funds to capital improvements, while capital outlay funding is for smaller projects.

Issuing bonds allows the district to spread the cost of the projects over time. Each ballot question carries a different estimated impact on the mill levy.

If only question one is approved, the estimated increase is one mill. If both question one and question two pass, the combined estimated increase would be 10 mills.

On a $100,000 home, a one mill increase would be $11.50 per year and a 10 mill increase would be $115 per year. The median home value in Rooks County is $88,200.

Rinehart emphasized the importance of approving both questions on the ballot.

"Question one: We definitely need to address our restrooms because we are not meeting ADA compliance with that. Not only for students who may have those needs, but for any of our community members," he said.

"Question two would allow us to address safe and secure entrances for both our schools. The safety and security of being able to simply reconfigure our entrances is something I definitely see as a high priority as well."

Under question two, voters would also decide whether the Rock Gym and Cardinal Gym receive renovations. The Rock Gym would be converted from a weight room into a multi-purpose space for the elementary school, with added space for community use.

"It is probably the oldest section of our facility. It was built in the early 1930s," Rinehart said. "What I would really like is to allow that to be used for elementary PE because right now, our elementary PE classes are going into our main Cardinal Gym. We have a lot of everyday foot traffic that's going in and out of that gym, and I would like to reduce some of the wear and tear on that building."

For the Cardinal Gym, the plan includes adding a new room designed as a storm shelter with a capacity of 550 people, enough for all students and staff.

"For me, it's not a weight room. It's a storm shelter that could be double-purposed and provide us with that opportunity for a weight room," Rinehart said.

The shelter would be available to the public outside school hours. The Cardinal Gym would also include restrooms, locker rooms and storage space.

Rinehart said 2026 was the year to pursue the proposal because the district’s 20-year bond, approved in 2005 and funded construction of the Cardinal Gym, is set to expire in September. A facilities assessment conducted in October identified several additional needs that are now included in the bond plan.

"The first real action was the board wanted to carry over and continue with the current 5.7 mills that we were already budgeting," he said. "Knowing our old bond was sunsetting... we could move forward and continue meeting the needs of our facilities."

If approved, Rinehart said the next step is to continue working with Gravity Works Architecture, develop final designs and drawings and begin the contractor interview process.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Plainville Township Hall, 108 S. Jefferson St.

In-person advance voting is open until noon on Monday at the Rooks County Clerk's Office, 115 N. Walnut St., in Stockton.

"I understand there are people in the community who have questions and don't feel like this is the time. I'm hopeful that as we move forward, it'll be my best effort to lead the district and be a good steward of the funding that we have," Rinehart said.

You can learn more about the bond proposal <a href="https://www.plainville270bond.net/">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772212110479.png" alt="Plainville Junior-Senior High School. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Plainville Junior-Senior High School. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostPlainville USD 270 voters will decide on Tuesday, March 3, on a bond proposal totaling about $12.5 million.If approved, the bond would fund improvements at Plainville Elementary School and Plainville Junior-Senior High School. The proposal will appear as a two-question ballot, with each question addressing a separate group of projects.Question one focuses on facility upgrades and major replacements of building systems. The projects include renovations at both schools, such as HVAC, electrical updates, LED lighting installation, restrooms and replacing the more than 30-year-old roof.Question two covers additional upgrades, including further renovations to classrooms and entrances at both schools. It also proposes improvements to the Rock Gym and Cardinal Gym.Proposition one totals $5.49 million and proposition two totals $7.05 million. Both would be repaid over 30 years.District voters may approve or reject both proposals. However, USD 270 Superintendent Chris Rinehart said proposition two can only take effect if proposition one is approved. If proposal one passes, voters may then choose whether to approve proposal two."From my seat as superintendent, I definitely see both questions as addressing high priorities in my mind," he said.&nbsp;According to a <a href="https://www.plainville270bond.net/">USD 270 website explaining the proposal</a>, Kansas law restricts bond funds to capital improvements, while capital outlay funding is for smaller projects.Issuing bonds allows the district to spread the cost of the projects over time. Each ballot question carries a different estimated impact on the mill levy.If only question one is approved, the estimated increase is one mill. If both question one and question two pass, the combined estimated increase would be 10 mills.On a $100,000 home, a one mill increase would be $11.50 per year and a 10 mill increase would be $115 per year. The median home value in Rooks County is $88,200.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772221413817.png" alt="The annual estimated cost to homeowners on an annual basis if proposition one, or both, were approved. Plainville USD 270" />
 <figcaption>The annual estimated cost to homeowners on an annual basis if proposition one, or both, were approved. Plainville USD 270</figcaption>
 </figure>Rinehart emphasized the importance of approving both questions on the ballot."Question one: We definitely need to address our restrooms because we are not meeting ADA compliance with that. Not only for students who may have those needs, but for any of our community members," he said."Question two would allow us to address safe and secure entrances for both our schools. The safety and security of being able to simply reconfigure our entrances is something I definitely see as a high priority as well."Under question two, voters would also decide whether the Rock Gym and Cardinal Gym receive renovations. The Rock Gym would be converted from a weight room into a multi-purpose space for the elementary school, with added space for community use."It is probably the oldest section of our facility. It was built in the early 1930s," Rinehart said. "What I would really like is to allow that to be used for elementary PE because right now, our elementary PE classes are going into our main Cardinal Gym. We have a lot of everyday foot traffic that's going in and out of that gym, and I would like to reduce some of the wear and tear on that building."For the Cardinal Gym, the plan includes adding a new room designed as a storm shelter with a capacity of 550 people, enough for all students and staff."For me, it's not a weight room. It's a storm shelter that could be double-purposed and provide us with that opportunity for a weight room," Rinehart said.The shelter would be available to the public outside school hours. The Cardinal Gym would also include restrooms, locker rooms and storage space.Rinehart said 2026 was the year to pursue the proposal because the district’s 20-year bond, approved in 2005 and funded construction of the Cardinal Gym, is set to expire in September. A facilities assessment conducted in October identified several additional needs that are now included in the bond plan."The first real action was the board wanted to carry over and continue with the current 5.7 mills that we were already budgeting," he said. "Knowing our old bond was sunsetting... we could move forward and continue meeting the needs of our facilities."If approved, Rinehart said the next step is to continue working with Gravity Works Architecture, develop final designs and drawings and begin the contractor interview process.Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Plainville Township Hall, 108 S. Jefferson St.In-person advance voting is open until noon on Monday at the Rooks County Clerk's Office, 115 N. Walnut St., in Stockton."I understand there are people in the community who have questions and don't feel like this is the time. I'm hopeful that as we move forward, it'll be my best effort to lead the district and be a good steward of the funding that we have," Rinehart said.You can learn more about the bond proposal <a href="https://www.plainville270bond.net/">here</a>.

Plainville USD 270 voters to decide $12.5 million bond for school upgrades

On February 27, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of U.S. government personnel from Mission Israel due to safety risks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available.

Country Summary:&nbsp;Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%25252FIsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FAh2FYzHTLzqz7nPsda0poqOfEdN6BpRzR5XGiLnZW3c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170603338%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3Dyx1o17QzmpCQFyVTI%252FRkC2M6JBm7WumzEwrlhONt4NA%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">country information page&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for additional information on travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Visit the CDC page for the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%25252Ftravel%25252Fdestinations%25252Ftraveler%25252Fnone%25252Fisrael%25253Fs_cid%253Dncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FZkzxZMKzbhGrklHD4F4l6vPBvgKxOnBxzqtS8v-moDQ%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170615806%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DVCXcsKAmRUhojPQaQuN8wkY3Bnn4mor3Saxy93WPsBw%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel Health Information&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

Israel – Reconsider Travel (see below for additional information regarding areas near the Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Reconsider travel due to&nbsp;terrorism, and civil unrest.

The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions and missiles, can take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

Any official travel of U.S. government personnel within these areas requires approval from the Embassy’s security office.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Northern Israel (within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders) – Do Not Travel

The Israeli authorities restrict travel to areas close to the border given the Israeli Defense Forces continued presence and activity. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel are currently restricted from personal travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders. Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization to travel close to these borders.

The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens not travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.

Reconsider Travel due to&nbsp;terrorism&nbsp;and&nbsp;civil unrest.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization travel to the West Bank. U.S. government employees are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:

Over the past several months, there has been an increase in violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks. Some incidents have resulted in injury or death of U.S. citizens. During periods of unrest, the Israeli government may restrict access to and within the West Bank, and some areas may be placed under curfew.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees working in Israel with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Fpassports%25252Fen%25252Fgo%25252FTraveltoHighRiskAreas.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FCJHwoe5ddft4nmJGklMrV7rtjlDoAxA1Nr6j7tqZdY0%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170729285%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DGcFf1gW3HyE8LzG%252Bdv%252BDGh1GDvnVnavM0Y0jEzuciz4%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel to High Risk Areas&nbsp;</a>.

Do not travel for any reason due to&nbsp;terrorism&nbsp;and&nbsp;armed conflict.

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel (Erez Crossing) was damaged on October 7, 2023, and remains closed. The pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza (Rafah Crossing) has been closed since May 7, 2024, and remains closed to the general public.

If a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) desires our assistance and has not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:JerusalemACS@state.gov">JerusalemACS@state.gov</a>.

Visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Fpassports%25252Fen%25252Fgo%25252FTraveltoHighRiskAreas.html%252F2%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FKoAb07NTRIkz6QptK3rtrEY0e-fcZBXRW82fROpDKOw%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170743530%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DMtGfsOYHxbSdxpMkAsLg9JcAkw418SqIsYbeN5XLYeg%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel to High Risk Areas&nbsp;</a>.

Please be sure to visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252Fbefore-you-go%25252Fcrisis_and_disaster_abroad_be_ready.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FmRStECkANzALK9cVshh6K4v_9vZHcVXDimtLlArNw_c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170756531%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DAajaGEH0mjZt2ZoSlRppHpZo%252BKlGDLUjmDpbYQ%252FbutQ%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Crisis and Disaster Abroad&nbsp;</a>: Be Ready&nbsp;for information that may be helpful.

U.S. updates travel advisory to Israel amid Iran strike fears

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Thursday rejected a preservationist group’s request to block the Trump administration from continuing construction of a $400 million ballroom where it demolished the East Wing of the White House.

<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645.47.0.pdf">U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled</a>&nbsp;that the National Trust for Historic Preservation was unlikely to succeed on the merits of its bid to temporarily halt President Donald Trump’s project. He said the privately funded group based its challenge on a "ragtag group of theories" under the Administrative Procedure Act and the Constitution, and would have a better chance of success if it amended the lawsuit.

“Unfortunately, because both sides initially focused on the President’s constitutional authority to destruct and construct the East Wing of the White House, Plaintiff didn’t bring the necessary cause of action to test the statutory authority the President claims is the basis to do this construction project without the blessing of Congress and with private funds,” the judge wrote.

The preservationists sought an order pausing the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-57512e0d91432f75529946fddfbfe2c5">ballroom project</a>&nbsp;until it undergoes multiple independent reviews and wins approval from Congress.

Trump used his social media account to hail the ruling as “Great news for America.” The Republican president said the project was ahead of schedule and under budget and "will stand long into the future as a symbol to the Greatness of America.”

Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation said the group was “disappointed" that no injunction was issued but “pleased that Judge Leon ruled that the National Trust has standing to bring this lawsuit, as we have asserted from the start.”

“We are also pleased that he encouraged us to amend our complaint — specifically, to assert that the president has acted beyond his statutory authority — and we plan to do so promptly,” Quillen said in a statement. “The judge indicated he will rule expeditiously once we do so, and we will await his decision.”

The White House announced the ballroom project over the summer. By late October, the Republican president had demolished the East Wing to make way for a ballroom that he said will fit 999 people. The White House said private donations, including from Trump himself, would pay for the planned construction of a 90,000-square-foot (8,400-square-meter) ballroom.

Trump proceeded with the project before seeking input from a pair of federal review panels, the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts. Trump has stocked both commission with allies.

The arts panel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-commission-fine-arts-f2a15d0b1c9c95f24816fe60b6b1ee5f">approved the project</a>&nbsp;at a meeting last week. The planning commission is set to discuss it further at a March 5 meeting.

During a preliminary hearing in December, Leon warned the administration to refrain from making decisions on underground work, such as the routing of plumbing and gas lines, that would dictate the scope of future ballroom construction above ground.

The group challenging the project argued that Trump could be emboldened to go further — and possibly demolish the White House’s West Wing or Executive Mansion — if the court did not intervene.

“The losers will be (the) American public, who will be left with a massive ballroom that not only overwhelms what is perhaps the nation’s most historically important building, but will have been built in violation of an astonishingly wide range of laws,”&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645.33.0.pdf">plaintiffs’ attorneys wrote</a>.

The administration said in a court filing that above-ground construction on the ballroom would not begin until April. In the meantime,&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645.14.0_2.pdf">government lawyers argued</a>, the preservationist group’s challenge was premature because the building plans were not final.

The administration also argued that other presidents did not need congressional approval for previous White House renovation projects, large and small.

“Many of those projects were highly controversial in their time yet have since become accepted—even beloved—parts of the White House,” government lawyers wrote.

Leon, who was nominated to the bench by Republican President George W. Bush, said the White House office behind the project is not an agency covered under the jurisdiction of the Administrative Procedure Act. The judge also said the preservationists, who argued that the ballroom usurped the authority of Congress, did not have the basis to invoke the power of the courts.

As a result, “I cannot reach the merits of the National Trust’s novel and weighty statutory arguments” at this time, Leon said.

Associated Press writer Will Weissert contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771522704150.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Thursday rejected a preservationist group’s request to block the Trump administration from continuing construction of a $400 million ballroom where it demolished the East Wing of the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/W18hXCkCgW">pic.twitter.com/W18hXCkCgW</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2027087614168179145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645.47.0.pdf">U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled</a>&nbsp;that the National Trust for Historic Preservation was unlikely to succeed on the merits of its bid to temporarily halt President Donald Trump’s project. He said the privately funded group based its challenge on a "ragtag group of theories" under the Administrative Procedure Act and the Constitution, and would have a better chance of success if it amended the lawsuit.“Unfortunately, because both sides initially focused on the President’s constitutional authority to destruct and construct the East Wing of the White House, Plaintiff didn’t bring the necessary cause of action to test the statutory authority the President claims is the basis to do this construction project without the blessing of Congress and with private funds,” the judge wrote.The preservationists sought an order pausing the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-57512e0d91432f75529946fddfbfe2c5">ballroom project</a>&nbsp;until it undergoes multiple independent reviews and wins approval from Congress.Trump used his social media account to hail the ruling as “Great news for America.” The Republican president said the project was ahead of schedule and under budget and "will stand long into the future as a symbol to the Greatness of America.”Carol Quillen, president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation said the group was “disappointed" that no injunction was issued but “pleased that Judge Leon ruled that the National Trust has standing to bring this lawsuit, as we have asserted from the start.”“We are also pleased that he encouraged us to amend our complaint — specifically, to assert that the president has acted beyond his statutory authority — and we plan to do so promptly,” Quillen said in a statement. “The judge indicated he will rule expeditiously once we do so, and we will await his decision.”The White House announced the ballroom project over the summer. By late October, the Republican president had demolished the East Wing to make way for a ballroom that he said will fit 999 people. The White House said private donations, including from Trump himself, would pay for the planned construction of a 90,000-square-foot (8,400-square-meter) ballroom.Trump proceeded with the project before seeking input from a pair of federal review panels, the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts. Trump has stocked both commission with allies.The arts panel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-commission-fine-arts-f2a15d0b1c9c95f24816fe60b6b1ee5f">approved the project</a>&nbsp;at a meeting last week. The planning commission is set to discuss it further at a March 5 meeting.During a preliminary hearing in December, Leon warned the administration to refrain from making decisions on underground work, such as the routing of plumbing and gas lines, that would dictate the scope of future ballroom construction above ground.The group challenging the project argued that Trump could be emboldened to go further — and possibly demolish the White House’s West Wing or Executive Mansion — if the court did not intervene.“The losers will be (the) American public, who will be left with a massive ballroom that not only overwhelms what is perhaps the nation’s most historically important building, but will have been built in violation of an astonishingly wide range of laws,”&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645.33.0.pdf">plaintiffs’ attorneys wrote</a>.The administration said in a court filing that above-ground construction on the ballroom would not begin until April. In the meantime,&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645/gov.uscourts.dcd.287645.14.0_2.pdf">government lawyers argued</a>, the preservationist group’s challenge was premature because the building plans were not final.The administration also argued that other presidents did not need congressional approval for previous White House renovation projects, large and small.“Many of those projects were highly controversial in their time yet have since become accepted—even beloved—parts of the White House,” government lawyers wrote.Leon, who was nominated to the bench by Republican President George W. Bush, said the White House office behind the project is not an agency covered under the jurisdiction of the Administrative Procedure Act. The judge also said the preservationists, who argued that the ballroom usurped the authority of Congress, did not have the basis to invoke the power of the courts.As a result, “I cannot reach the merits of the National Trust’s novel and weighty statutory arguments” at this time, Leon said.___Associated Press writer Will Weissert contributed to this report.

Trump responds to judge's decision on $400 million ballroom project

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused in a fatal shooting at an American Legion Hall in Wichita is scheduled to return to court Thursday..

Darrell E. Buckner, Jr., 52, will attend a hearing in the courtroom of Judge Tyler Roush in an attempt to have the one-million dollar bond reduced, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

He is charged with First degree murder and aggravated battery in connection with the killing at the American Legion in Wichita.

Just before 7:30p.m. October 11, police responded to a report of a shooting inside the American Legion, 1135 North Hydraulic in Wichita, according t a media release.&nbsp; First responders found 55-year-old Anthony Grayson from Wichita unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 7:55 p.m.

A second victim, a 56-year-old man, arrived at a hospital by private vehicle with a gunshot wound to the torso.&nbsp;

Investigators confirmed that the suspect, identified as Buckner, and Grayson were involved in a fight inside the bar. Buckner then left, retrieved a firearm from his vehicle, and returned. Employees attempted to prevent him from reentering, but he pushed past them and went back inside, where another fight broke out. During the altercation, Buckner fired the gun, striking Grayson and the second victim, who was attempting to intervene.

Buckner was taken into custody at the scene and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this month, a preliminary hearing for Buckner was delayed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760102689111.png" alt="Buckner-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Buckner-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused in a fatal shooting at an American Legion Hall in Wichita is scheduled to return to court Thursday..Darrell E. Buckner, Jr., 52, will attend a hearing in the courtroom of Judge Tyler Roush in an attempt to have the one-million dollar bond reduced, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.He is charged with First degree murder and aggravated battery in connection with the killing at the American Legion in Wichita.Just before 7:30p.m. October 11, police responded to a report of a shooting inside the American Legion, 1135 North Hydraulic in Wichita, according t a media release.&nbsp; First responders found 55-year-old Anthony Grayson from Wichita unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 7:55 p.m.A second victim, a 56-year-old man, arrived at a hospital by private vehicle with a gunshot wound to the torso.&nbsp;Investigators confirmed that the suspect, identified as Buckner, and Grayson were involved in a fight inside the bar. Buckner then left, retrieved a firearm from his vehicle, and returned. Employees attempted to prevent him from reentering, but he pushed past them and went back inside, where another fight broke out. During the altercation, Buckner fired the gun, striking Grayson and the second victim, who was attempting to intervene.Buckner was taken into custody at the scene and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this month, a preliminary hearing for Buckner was delayed.

Suspect in Kan. American Legion killing returns to court

Born
on October 7, 1943, in Damar, Kansas, Doug Berland passed away peacefully on
February 11, 2026, in Florence, Arizona, at the age of 82.



Doug was the son of Blanche and Alverize Berland. He grew up in Damar and
graduated from Damar High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in
Education from Fort Hays State University.



Doug's life was marked by a deep appreciation for nature and a zest for outdoor
adventure. He found joy in camping, boating, golfing, and playing pickleball.
Summers were spent amid the scenic beauty of Chateau Chaparral in Buena Vista,
Colorado, while winters brought him to the warmth of Florence, Arizona. These
seasonal retreats reflected his love for the outdoors and his desire to share
those experiences with friends and loved ones.



Doug was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus in both Florence and
Damar. His faith and community involvement were important parts of his life.



He is survived by his loving wife Lorraine, whom he married in May 1992; his
daughter Beth Brown (Brian); son Bradley (Nikki); five stepchildren: Gwyn Marie
Schmidtberger, Aaron Schmidtberger (Victoria), Kandra Schmidtberger, Russ
Schmidtberger, and Ryan Schmidtberger (Angela); fifteen grandchildren; and ten
great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Paul, Vince, and
Bryan; and sisters Roberta, Carolyn, and Debbie.



Doug was preceded in death by his parents Blanche and Alverize Berland; his
daughter Belinda; and his brother Harlan.



Over the years, Doug owned and operated a custom harvesting business that
stretched from Canada to Texas, later devoted himself to education as both a
teacher and bus driver, and built a rental property business. Whether in the
fields, the classroom, or at home, Doug's life was defined not only by what he
did, but by how he showed up for the people he loved. He carried a strong work
ethic and a steady commitment to providing for and supporting his family - a
devotion that remained steadfast even through the profound loss of his daughter
Belinda. The final 34 years of Doug's life were spent in marriage to Lorraine,
building a shared life marked by companionship, faith, travel, and seasonal
traditions in Colorado and Arizona.



A rosary will precede the Memorial Service at 9:00 a.m., followed by the
Memorial Mass on March 7, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary, 221 E. 8th Street, Florence, Arizona 85132. 

Doug's
ashes will be laid to rest in a Mass and burial service on May 2, 2026 at 10:00
am at St. Joseph's Church, 107 Oak Street, Damar, Kansas 67632.



Doug's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Ama
Vida Care Home in San Tan Valley, Arizona, for the compassion, dignity, and
attentive care they provided in his final days. With gentle presence and
kindness, the caregivers ensured that he was comfortable and surrounded by
tenderness as he made his peaceful transition.

Memorials: throughout Doug's life he valued family and education. He spent most
of his life between Kansas and Colorado. Please contribute to the following
organizations in Colorado <a href="https://elifenetwork.com/" target="_blank">https://elifenetwork.com/</a>
and Kansas <a href="https://www.prairiemoon.org/donate/here" target="_blank">https://www.prairiemoon.org/donate/here</a>
Florence, Arizona <a href="https://assumptionofmary.org/" target="_blank">https://assumptionofmary.org/</a>
and Damar, Kansas <a href="https://salinadiocese.org/parish/st-joseph-parish-damar/" target="_blank">https://salinadiocese.org/parish/st-joseph-parish-damar/</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772063471477.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Doug Berland" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Doug Berland</figcaption>
 </figure>Born
on October 7, 1943, in Damar, Kansas, Doug Berland passed away peacefully on
February 11, 2026, in Florence, Arizona, at the age of 82.

Doug was the son of Blanche and Alverize Berland. He grew up in Damar and
graduated from Damar High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in
Education from Fort Hays State University.

Doug's life was marked by a deep appreciation for nature and a zest for outdoor
adventure. He found joy in camping, boating, golfing, and playing pickleball.
Summers were spent amid the scenic beauty of Chateau Chaparral in Buena Vista,
Colorado, while winters brought him to the warmth of Florence, Arizona. These
seasonal retreats reflected his love for the outdoors and his desire to share
those experiences with friends and loved ones.

Doug was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus in both Florence and
Damar. His faith and community involvement were important parts of his life.

He is survived by his loving wife Lorraine, whom he married in May 1992; his
daughter Beth Brown (Brian); son Bradley (Nikki); five stepchildren: Gwyn Marie
Schmidtberger, Aaron Schmidtberger (Victoria), Kandra Schmidtberger, Russ
Schmidtberger, and Ryan Schmidtberger (Angela); fifteen grandchildren; and ten
great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Paul, Vince, and
Bryan; and sisters Roberta, Carolyn, and Debbie.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents Blanche and Alverize Berland; his
daughter Belinda; and his brother Harlan.

Over the years, Doug owned and operated a custom harvesting business that
stretched from Canada to Texas, later devoted himself to education as both a
teacher and bus driver, and built a rental property business. Whether in the
fields, the classroom, or at home, Doug's life was defined not only by what he
did, but by how he showed up for the people he loved. He carried a strong work
ethic and a steady commitment to providing for and supporting his family - a
devotion that remained steadfast even through the profound loss of his daughter
Belinda. The final 34 years of Doug's life were spent in marriage to Lorraine,
building a shared life marked by companionship, faith, travel, and seasonal
traditions in Colorado and Arizona.

A rosary will precede the Memorial Service at 9:00 a.m., followed by the
Memorial Mass on March 7, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary, 221 E. 8th Street, Florence, Arizona 85132. Doug's
ashes will be laid to rest in a Mass and burial service on May 2, 2026 at 10:00
am at St. Joseph's Church, 107 Oak Street, Damar, Kansas 67632.

Doug's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Ama
Vida Care Home in San Tan Valley, Arizona, for the compassion, dignity, and
attentive care they provided in his final days. With gentle presence and
kindness, the caregivers ensured that he was comfortable and surrounded by
tenderness as he made his peaceful transition.

Memorials: throughout Doug's life he valued family and education. He spent most
of his life between Kansas and Colorado. Please contribute to the following
organizations in Colorado <a href="https://elifenetwork.com/" target="_blank">https://elifenetwork.com/</a>
and Kansas <a href="https://www.prairiemoon.org/donate/here" target="_blank">https://www.prairiemoon.org/donate/here</a>
Florence, Arizona <a href="https://assumptionofmary.org/" target="_blank">https://assumptionofmary.org/</a>
and Damar, Kansas <a href="https://salinadiocese.org/parish/st-joseph-parish-damar/" target="_blank">https://salinadiocese.org/parish/st-joseph-parish-damar/</a>

 Doug Berland, 82

Gerald Wayne “Jerry” Freitag, age
81, of Vincent, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, February
17, 2026. He was born on October 16, 1944, in Hays, Kansas, to Lawrence “Pete”
and Alice (Schmidt) Freitag, the first of three children. 

He graduated from Hays High School in 1962 and married the love of his life,
Carol (Schumacher), on July 27, 1964, in Munjor, Kansas.

Jerry was a working man through and through. He had a lifelong passion
for horses and cars, raising some
truly talented horses and taking pride in the craftsmanship and care he poured
into everything he touched. Jerry was gifted in ways that can’t be taught and
spent countless hours as a mechanic and machinist making sure his family always
had what they needed. He could fix anything made of metal, anything with a
motor, and was also skilled in the kitchen. There was very little he couldn’t
repair, including his pride and joy: a fully restored 1956 Pink Cadillac.

Jerry worked on a custom cutting crew throughout junior high and high school,
gaining the early hands-on experience that would shape the rest of his life. He
spent time with the local John Deere dealership before moving into the oilfield,
and eventually joined his uncle as co-owner of Howard &amp; Jerry’s Service
Center (Mobil, Vickers, and Sinclair) just off I70 and 8th and Vine in Hays. In
the early 1990s, he worked for another uncle and eventually managed Farley’s
Machine Shop in Russell, KS, until his semi retirement.

In their younger years, Jerry and Carol could often be found at a polka dance
or leading a wedding march, always ready to join in the fun. In his later
years, Jerry found great enjoyment in helping several local car dealerships by
picking up and transporting vehicles. It gave him the chance to get behind the
wheel of the newest models, a small but meaningful pleasure for someone who had
spent a lifetime working with vehicles. He was able to stay connected to the
world he loved, lending a hand wherever he could until the house fire in 2021,
brought that chapter to a close. 

As time went on and his body began to slow, he found comfort in simpler
pleasures like watching The Cowboy Channel, keeping up with the world he loved,
and, of course, pestering his wife in the way only he could. He was a member of
Saint Boniface Catholic Church and Munjor Knights of Columbus.

With his wife of 61 years, Jerry raised four very independent children: Kevin
Freitag (Shelly) of Glendale, AZ; Kelly Forell (Guy) of Victoria, KS; Kim
Dreiling (Ted Wilkens) of Shawnee, KS; and Krista Freitag (Keith Young) of Glendora,
CA. He took great pride in following the lives and accomplishments of his six
grandchildren: Dustin Freitag (Kayla); Kourtney Ankrom (Donnie);Cody Forell
(Kylee); Tyler Forell (Darian); Bailey Forell (Laramie Warren); and Brooks
Dreiling. He was delighted to welcome seven great grandchildren: Gunner and
Sawyer Freitag; Addison, Hattie, Ila, and Jae
Forell; and Kade Ankrom. 

is survived by all the above and by his loving
sisters: Marilyn Dinkel (Ray) of Hays, KS; and Janice Augustine (Gary) of
Wichita, KS; his brothers-in-law, Leon Schumacher (Stephanie) and Verlyn
Schumacher, both of Hays, KS; and his sister in law, Patricia “Toots” Engel of
Garland, TX. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who
will remember him with great affection.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Alice; and by his brothers and
sisters in law, Celly Schumacher (Verlene); Robert Schumacher (Bernie); and
Delbert Engel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at
The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Avenue, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;Burial will be in Saint Boniface Cemetery, 623 Vincent Avenue, Vincent, Kansas.

Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00
a.m. Saturday, all at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis Victoria, Kansas. &nbsp;A Vigil Service and Rosary with the Munjor Knights of Columbus and the Vincent
Christian Mothers will be at 7:00 p.m. Friday, at The Basilica of Saint
Fidelis.

The family suggests memorials made payable to: Saint Boniface Catholic Church
or Kansas Western Horseman’s Association, in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.

Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left by guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771524550765.jpeg" alt="Gerald Wayne 'Jerry' Freitag" />
 <figcaption>Gerald Wayne 'Jerry' Freitag</figcaption>
 </figure>Gerald Wayne “Jerry” Freitag, age
81, of Vincent, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, February
17, 2026. He was born on October 16, 1944, in Hays, Kansas, to Lawrence “Pete”
and Alice (Schmidt) Freitag, the first of three children. He graduated from Hays High School in 1962 and married the love of his life,
Carol (Schumacher), on July 27, 1964, in Munjor, Kansas.Jerry was a working man through and through. He had a lifelong passion
for horses and cars, raising some
truly talented horses and taking pride in the craftsmanship and care he poured
into everything he touched. Jerry was gifted in ways that can’t be taught and
spent countless hours as a mechanic and machinist making sure his family always
had what they needed. He could fix anything made of metal, anything with a
motor, and was also skilled in the kitchen. There was very little he couldn’t
repair, including his pride and joy: a fully restored 1956 Pink Cadillac.Jerry worked on a custom cutting crew throughout junior high and high school,
gaining the early hands-on experience that would shape the rest of his life. He
spent time with the local John Deere dealership before moving into the oilfield,
and eventually joined his uncle as co-owner of Howard &amp; Jerry’s Service
Center (Mobil, Vickers, and Sinclair) just off I70 and 8th and Vine in Hays. In
the early 1990s, he worked for another uncle and eventually managed Farley’s
Machine Shop in Russell, KS, until his semi retirement.In their younger years, Jerry and Carol could often be found at a polka dance
or leading a wedding march, always ready to join in the fun. In his later
years, Jerry found great enjoyment in helping several local car dealerships by
picking up and transporting vehicles. It gave him the chance to get behind the
wheel of the newest models, a small but meaningful pleasure for someone who had
spent a lifetime working with vehicles. He was able to stay connected to the
world he loved, lending a hand wherever he could until the house fire in 2021,
brought that chapter to a close. As time went on and his body began to slow, he found comfort in simpler
pleasures like watching The Cowboy Channel, keeping up with the world he loved,
and, of course, pestering his wife in the way only he could. He was a member of
Saint Boniface Catholic Church and Munjor Knights of Columbus.With his wife of 61 years, Jerry raised four very independent children: Kevin
Freitag (Shelly) of Glendale, AZ; Kelly Forell (Guy) of Victoria, KS; Kim
Dreiling (Ted Wilkens) of Shawnee, KS; and Krista Freitag (Keith Young) of Glendora,
CA. He took great pride in following the lives and accomplishments of his six
grandchildren: Dustin Freitag (Kayla); Kourtney Ankrom (Donnie);Cody Forell
(Kylee); Tyler Forell (Darian); Bailey Forell (Laramie Warren); and Brooks
Dreiling. He was delighted to welcome seven great grandchildren: Gunner and
Sawyer Freitag; Addison, Hattie, Ila, and Jae
Forell; and Kade Ankrom. is survived by all the above and by his loving
sisters: Marilyn Dinkel (Ray) of Hays, KS; and Janice Augustine (Gary) of
Wichita, KS; his brothers-in-law, Leon Schumacher (Stephanie) and Verlyn
Schumacher, both of Hays, KS; and his sister in law, Patricia “Toots” Engel of
Garland, TX. He also leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who
will remember him with great affection.He is preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Alice; and by his brothers and
sisters in law, Celly Schumacher (Verlene); Robert Schumacher (Bernie); and
Delbert Engel.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026, at
The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Avenue, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;Burial will be in Saint Boniface Cemetery, 623 Vincent Avenue, Vincent, Kansas.Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, and from 9:00 to 10:00
a.m. Saturday, all at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis Victoria, Kansas. &nbsp;A Vigil Service and Rosary with the Munjor Knights of Columbus and the Vincent
Christian Mothers will be at 7:00 p.m. Friday, at The Basilica of Saint
Fidelis.The family suggests memorials made payable to: Saint Boniface Catholic Church
or Kansas Western Horseman’s Association, in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary,
412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a>
or left by guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;

Gerald Wayne 'Jerry' Freitag, age 81

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating and searching for a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred October 23 at Dr. Glen Dey Park, located at 2801 N. Grove in Wichita.&nbsp; Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward in the case.  Police indicated they have only received very few tips on the investigation since the crime occurred.

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761331970728.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating and searching for a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred October 23 at Dr. Glen Dey Park, located at 2801 N. Grove in Wichita.&nbsp; Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward in the case. Police indicated they have only received very few tips on the investigation since the crime occurred.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762985053767.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CRIME STOPPERS APPROVES $10,000 REWARD ***PRESS RELEASE*** WICHITA, Kan. – Crime Stoppers of Wichita/Sedgwick County has approved an increased reward of $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspect responsible for the homicide of Trayvon Stewart. <a href="https://t.co/sgNgtHlJHj">pic.twitter.com/sgNgtHlJHj</a>&mdash; Crime Stoppers ICT (@crimestoppers) <a href="https://twitter.com/crimestoppers/status/1988667731865211043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>At approximately 7:03 p.m. an off-duty WPD detective working secondary employment at&nbsp; the park heard multiple gunshots from another area of the park. The detective immediately ran toward the scene and found 32-year-old Travon Stewart suffering from gunshot wounds.The detective called for backup and emergency medical services, then began life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Stewart was transported to a local hospital in extremely critical condition and later died from his injuries.Preliminary findings indicate that around 200 to 300 people were in attendance at the football games. Stewart was at the park selling concessions as a fundraiser for a football team not affiliated with the Wichita Junior Football League.Homicide investigators responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses who remained in the area. Detectives believe this was a targeted shooting and not connected to the youth football games.Anyone who attended the games or may have information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at 316-268-4407.&nbsp;

After 4 months, no arrest in deadly Kan. youth football game shooting

Janice D. (Newell) Napell, age 77, of Hays, Kansas, passed away
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, surrounded
by family and a wonderful medical team. She was born January 9, 1949, in
Stockton, Kansas, to Oliver and Velma (Manny) Newell, being 1 of 7 children.

On October 26, 1974, she was united in marriage to Donald (Nipple)
Napell in Damar, Kansas. He preceded her in death on November 19, 2020.

Janice graduated from Palco High School in 1968. She held many
jobs over the years, most of the time holding more than 1 job at a time. She
retired from FHSU at the age of 71 in January of 2020. Janice was everyone’s
favorite, from the grandkids, siblings, nieces, nephews and extended family
that goes far beyond blood. As important as her faith was to her she lived for
her 4 grandchildren and never missed an event. In the days leading up to her
husband and Heavenly Father calling her home, she was surrounded by family,
celebrating her sisters 80th birthday just days before, in which her oldest
grandson drove her to Salina and back, taking the 3 younger grandchildren
bowling and to the park showering them all with love and the remembrance of who
she was. Her family was the center of her joy and happiness. Janice was very
out going, out spoken and never knew a stranger, as she would talk to or strike
up a conversation with anyone, and if you were her friend, you quickly became
part of her family. Even after her passing, Janice, being the loving and giving
person she has always been, continued her gifting by offering life after death
by her wishes carried out of being an organ donor. Her love, warmth, kindness,
generous and genuine spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her son, Adam (Nicole) Napell of Hays, and
beloved grandchildren, Callum, Camden, Liam and Jamison; her brothers, Wayne
Newell of Hays, Allen Newell of Stilwell, Kansas, and Roger (Kim) Newell of
Salina; her sisters, Joan Peterson of Salina and Cinta Foster of Louisiana; and
her goddaughters, Vivian and Gabriella Aubel, daughters of Jim and Mara Aubel,
along with numerous nieces, nephews and greats.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, Oliver
and Velma Newell; her brother, Loren Newell and dear family friend Jean Gruse.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at
11:00 a.m. at Hays Family Worship Center, 1651 Yocemento Avenue, Hays, Kansas
67601. The family will receive guests from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the
church. Memorial visitation will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, from 5:00
p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel,
2509 Vine Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Ellis
County Fire Department Company No. 5 or to the CCLJ Education Fund (for her
grandchildren). Checks may be made payable to the organization of your choice.

Condolences may be left in the guestbook&nbsp; at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>
or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771556309889.png" alt="Janice D. (Newell) Napell" />
 <figcaption>Janice D. (Newell) Napell</figcaption>
 </figure>Janice D. (Newell) Napell, age 77, of Hays, Kansas, passed away
Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, surrounded
by family and a wonderful medical team. She was born January 9, 1949, in
Stockton, Kansas, to Oliver and Velma (Manny) Newell, being 1 of 7 children.On October 26, 1974, she was united in marriage to Donald (Nipple)
Napell in Damar, Kansas. He preceded her in death on November 19, 2020.Janice graduated from Palco High School in 1968. She held many
jobs over the years, most of the time holding more than 1 job at a time. She
retired from FHSU at the age of 71 in January of 2020. Janice was everyone’s
favorite, from the grandkids, siblings, nieces, nephews and extended family
that goes far beyond blood. As important as her faith was to her she lived for
her 4 grandchildren and never missed an event. In the days leading up to her
husband and Heavenly Father calling her home, she was surrounded by family,
celebrating her sisters 80th birthday just days before, in which her oldest
grandson drove her to Salina and back, taking the 3 younger grandchildren
bowling and to the park showering them all with love and the remembrance of who
she was. Her family was the center of her joy and happiness. Janice was very
out going, out spoken and never knew a stranger, as she would talk to or strike
up a conversation with anyone, and if you were her friend, you quickly became
part of her family. Even after her passing, Janice, being the loving and giving
person she has always been, continued her gifting by offering life after death
by her wishes carried out of being an organ donor. Her love, warmth, kindness,
generous and genuine spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.She is survived by her son, Adam (Nicole) Napell of Hays, and
beloved grandchildren, Callum, Camden, Liam and Jamison; her brothers, Wayne
Newell of Hays, Allen Newell of Stilwell, Kansas, and Roger (Kim) Newell of
Salina; her sisters, Joan Peterson of Salina and Cinta Foster of Louisiana; and
her goddaughters, Vivian and Gabriella Aubel, daughters of Jim and Mara Aubel,
along with numerous nieces, nephews and greats.She was preceded in death by her husband, Don; her parents, Oliver
and Velma Newell; her brother, Loren Newell and dear family friend Jean Gruse.Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at
11:00 a.m. at Hays Family Worship Center, 1651 Yocemento Avenue, Hays, Kansas
67601. The family will receive guests from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the
church. Memorial visitation will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, from 5:00
p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel,
2509 Vine Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Ellis
County Fire Department Company No. 5 or to the CCLJ Education Fund (for her
grandchildren). Checks may be made payable to the organization of your choice.Condolences may be left in the guestbook&nbsp; at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>
or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>.

Janice D. (Newell) Napell, age 77

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, a panel made up of President Donald Trump's appointees, on Thursday approved his proposal to build a ballroom larger than the White House itself where the East Wing once stood.

The seven-member panel is one of two federal agencies that must approve Trump's plans for the ballroom. The National Capital Planning Commission, which has jurisdiction over construction and major renovation to government buildings in the region, is also reviewing the project.

Members of the fine arts commission originally had been scheduled to discuss and vote on the design after a follow-up presentation by the architect, and had planned to vote on final approval at next month's meeting. But after the 6-0 vote on the design, the panel's chairman, Rodney Mims Cook Jr., unexpectedly made another motion to vote on final approval.

Six of the seven commissioners — all appointed by the Republican president in January — voted once more in favor. Commissioner James McCrery did not participate in the discussion or the votes because he was the initial architect on the project before Trump replaced him.

The ballroom will be built on the site of the former East Wing, which Trump had demolished in October with little public notice. That drew an outcry from lawmakers, historians and preservationists who argued that the president should not have taken that step until the two federal agencies and Congress had reviewed and approved the project, and the public had a chance to provide comment.

The 90,000-square-foot ballroom would be nearly twice the size of the White House, which is 55,000-square-feet, and would accommodate about 1,000 people, Trump has said. The East Room, currently the largest room in the White House, can fit just over 200 people at most.

Commissioners offered mostly complimentary comments before the votes.

Cook echoed one of Trump's main arguments for adding a larger entertaining space to the White House: It would end the long-standing practice of erecting temporary structures on the South Lawn that Trump describes as tents to host visiting dignitaries for state dinners and other functions.

“Our sitting president has actually designed a very beautiful structure,” Cook said. “The United States just should not be entertaining the world in tents.”

The panel received mainly negative comments from the public

Members of the public were asked to submit written comment by a Wednesday afternoon deadline. Thomas Leubke, the panel’s secretary, said “over 99%” of the more than 2,000 messages it received in the past week from around the country were in opposition to the project.

Leubke tried to summarize the comments for the commissioners.

Some comments cited concerns about Trump’s decision to unilaterally tear down the East Wing, as well as the lack of transparency about who is paying for the ballroom or how contracts were awarded, Leubke said. Comments in support referenced concerns for the image of the United States on the world stage and the need for a larger entertaining space at the White House.

Trump has defended the ballroom in a recent series of social media posts that included drawings of the building. He said in one January post that most of the material needed to build it had been ordered “and there is no practical or reasonable way to go back. IT IS TOO LATE!”

The commission met Thursday over Zoom and heard from Shalom Baranes, the lead architect, and Rick Parisi, the landscape architect. Both described a series of images and sketches of the ballroom and the grounds as they would appear after the project is completed.

Trump has said the ballroom would cost about $400 million and be paid for with private donations. To date, the White House has only released an incomplete list of donors.

A lawsuit against the project is still pending

The National Trust for Historic Preservation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-sued-preservationists-76dc3bbea28257e79f8becd487d2c4d7">has sued</a>&nbsp;in federal court to halt construction. A ruling in the case is pending.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1771522704150.png" alt="Image White House" />
 <figcaption>Image White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, a panel made up of President Donald Trump's appointees, on Thursday approved his proposal to build a ballroom larger than the White House itself where the East Wing once stood.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“Will be the Greatest Ballroom ever built, now rising at the site of the White House — Fully paid for by American Patriot Donors. ZERO cost to our United States Taxpayers!” - President Donald J. Trump <a href="https://t.co/DXxsO1fOpx">pic.twitter.com/DXxsO1fOpx</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2024234457243238795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The seven-member panel is one of two federal agencies that must approve Trump's plans for the ballroom. The National Capital Planning Commission, which has jurisdiction over construction and major renovation to government buildings in the region, is also reviewing the project.Members of the fine arts commission originally had been scheduled to discuss and vote on the design after a follow-up presentation by the architect, and had planned to vote on final approval at next month's meeting. But after the 6-0 vote on the design, the panel's chairman, Rodney Mims Cook Jr., unexpectedly made another motion to vote on final approval.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753991748963.png" alt="White House image" />
 <figcaption>White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>Six of the seven commissioners — all appointed by the Republican president in January — voted once more in favor. Commissioner James McCrery did not participate in the discussion or the votes because he was the initial architect on the project before Trump replaced him.The ballroom will be built on the site of the former East Wing, which Trump had demolished in October with little public notice. That drew an outcry from lawmakers, historians and preservationists who argued that the president should not have taken that step until the two federal agencies and Congress had reviewed and approved the project, and the public had a chance to provide comment.The 90,000-square-foot ballroom would be nearly twice the size of the White House, which is 55,000-square-feet, and would accommodate about 1,000 people, Trump has said. The East Room, currently the largest room in the White House, can fit just over 200 people at most.Commissioners offered mostly complimentary comments before the votes.Cook echoed one of Trump's main arguments for adding a larger entertaining space to the White House: It would end the long-standing practice of erecting temporary structures on the South Lawn that Trump describes as tents to host visiting dignitaries for state dinners and other functions.“Our sitting president has actually designed a very beautiful structure,” Cook said. “The United States just should not be entertaining the world in tents.”<h2>The panel received mainly negative comments from the public</h2>Members of the public were asked to submit written comment by a Wednesday afternoon deadline. Thomas Leubke, the panel’s secretary, said “over 99%” of the more than 2,000 messages it received in the past week from around the country were in opposition to the project.Leubke tried to summarize the comments for the commissioners.Some comments cited concerns about Trump’s decision to unilaterally tear down the East Wing, as well as the lack of transparency about who is paying for the ballroom or how contracts were awarded, Leubke said. Comments in support referenced concerns for the image of the United States on the world stage and the need for a larger entertaining space at the White House.Trump has defended the ballroom in a recent series of social media posts that included drawings of the building. He said in one January post that most of the material needed to build it had been ordered “and there is no practical or reasonable way to go back. IT IS TOO LATE!”The commission met Thursday over Zoom and heard from Shalom Baranes, the lead architect, and Rick Parisi, the landscape architect. Both described a series of images and sketches of the ballroom and the grounds as they would appear after the project is completed.Trump has said the ballroom would cost about $400 million and be paid for with private donations. To date, the White House has only released an incomplete list of donors.<h2>A lawsuit against the project is still pending</h2>The National Trust for Historic Preservation&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-sued-preservationists-76dc3bbea28257e79f8becd487d2c4d7">has sued</a>&nbsp;in federal court to halt construction. A ruling in the case is pending.In comments it submitted to the commission, the privately funded group recommended that the size of the ballroom be reduced to “accommodate and respect the primary historic importance of the original Executive Residence.”At&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ballroom-white-house-east-wing-48c6630d2e81adad1793e25f8e447117">the commission's January meeting</a>, some commissioners had questioned Baranes, Trump's architect, about the “immense” design and scale of the project even as they broadly endorsed Trump's vision. On Thursday, Baranes described changes he has since made to the design, and the commissioners said they welcomed the adjustments.The ballroom project is scheduled for additional discussion at a March 5 meeting of the National Capital Planning Commission, which is led by a top White House aide. This panel heard an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-white-house-ballroom-commission-review-3dd5e3c1b2475d1f39843b9193572576">initial presentation about the project</a>&nbsp;in January.___This story has been corrected to reflect that the ballroom was approved by six of the seven commissioners and that one commission did not vote because he was the initial architect on the project.