MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a>McConnell Air Force Base’s aircraft are departing today, moving away from the waves of&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/weatherstory">severe weather</a>&nbsp;which is forecasted for the Wichita area Thursday night and then again Friday night, according to a statement from the base.

That forecast calls for a slight to enhanced risk of severe storms with potential for severe winds, hail and the possibility of tornadoes.

Air Force active duty and reserve aircrews from the 22nd&nbsp;and 931st&nbsp;Air Refueling Wings are relocating the base’s KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft to several other military bases across the country. This will ensure the aircraft maintain full readiness as they continue to support tasked missions and be available for future taskings, while also avoiding any potential damage from the upcoming weather.

All remaining aircraft, undergoing various phases of maintenance, along with a range of flightline vehicles and equipment, are being stored in hangars as the base readies for the full range of potential weather outcomes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716646459018.png" alt="File image from video in 2024 provided by McConnell Air Force Base" />
 <figcaption>File image from video in 2024 provided by McConnell Air Force Base</figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a>McConnell Air Force Base’s aircraft are departing today, moving away from the waves of&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/weatherstory">severe weather</a>&nbsp;which is forecasted for the Wichita area Thursday night and then again Friday night, according to a statement from the base.That forecast calls for a slight to enhanced risk of severe storms with potential for severe winds, hail and the possibility of tornadoes.Air Force active duty and reserve aircrews from the 22nd&nbsp;and 931st&nbsp;Air Refueling Wings are relocating the base’s KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft to several other military bases across the country. This will ensure the aircraft maintain full readiness as they continue to support tasked missions and be available for future taskings, while also avoiding any potential damage from the upcoming weather.All remaining aircraft, undergoing various phases of maintenance, along with a range of flightline vehicles and equipment, are being stored in hangars as the base readies for the full range of potential weather outcomes.

Kan. Air Force base to relocate aircraft ahead of severe weather

&nbsp;Senate Republicans voted down an effort Wednesday to halt President Trump’s war against Iran, demonstrating early support for a conflict that has rapidly spread across the Middle East.

The legislation, known as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-constitution-37ec6685d9ded1d467a719f91e537487">war powers resolution</a>, failed on a 47-53 vote tally. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the resolution.

On social media, Kansas senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran explained his vote against the resolution. "The Iranian government has terrorized its own people, funded terror networks, threatened the security of our allies and called for the destruction of the U.S. Iran’s ambition to enrich uranium and acquire long-range missiles threatens the U.S. and the stability of the region.

Iran’s continued attacks on American troops, our embassies and consulates, and the bombardment of Israel, require vigilance and ongoing military action in the Middle East. Support for this resolution as written would constrain ongoing operations and potentially put American service members at greater risk. Congress must remain fully engaged through oversight and deliberation, and we must do so in a way that supports, not jeopardizes as this resolution would do, the men &amp; women carrying out their current mission. If military engagements become sustained or expanded, Congress must debate and authorize further use of force on behalf of the American people

On his social media account, Senator Marshall explained his no vote against the resolution. "I voted against the Democrats’ War Powers Resolution—a political ploy to undermine our military operations." 

"Our military’s strike against the Iranian regime was bold, necessary, and long overdue. Iran has spent decades killing Americans and pursuing a nuclear weapon. Praying for our troops and their families—and for a swift end to this conflict."

The vote on Thursday afternoon gave lawmakers an opportunity to demand congressional approval before any further attacks are carried out. The vote forced them to take a stand on a war shaping the fate of U.S. military members, countless other lives and the future of the region.

-The Associated Press contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772661453181.png" alt="Underscoring the gravity of the moment, Democratic senators filled the Senate chamber and sat at their desks as the voting got underway. Typically, senators step into the chamber to cast their vote, then leave." />
 <figcaption>Underscoring the gravity of the moment, Democratic senators filled the Senate chamber and sat at their desks as the voting got underway. Typically, senators step into the chamber to cast their vote, then leave.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Senate Republicans voted down an effort Wednesday to halt President Trump’s war against Iran, demonstrating early support for a conflict that has rapidly spread across the Middle East.The legislation, known as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-trump-iran-constitution-37ec6685d9ded1d467a719f91e537487">war powers resolution</a>, failed on a 47-53 vote tally. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the resolution.On social media, Kansas senior U.S. Senator Jerry Moran explained his vote against the resolution. "The Iranian government has terrorized its own people, funded terror networks, threatened the security of our allies and called for the destruction of the U.S. Iran’s ambition to enrich uranium and acquire long-range missiles threatens the U.S. and the stability of the region.Iran’s continued attacks on American troops, our embassies and consulates, and the bombardment of Israel, require vigilance and ongoing military action in the Middle East. Support for this resolution as written would constrain ongoing operations and potentially put American service members at greater risk. Congress must remain fully engaged through oversight and deliberation, and we must do so in a way that supports, not jeopardizes as this resolution would do, the men &amp; women carrying out their current mission. If military engagements become sustained or expanded, Congress must debate and authorize further use of force on behalf of the American peopleOn his social media account, Senator Marshall explained his no vote against the resolution. "I voted against the Democrats’ War Powers Resolution—a political ploy to undermine our military operations." "Our military’s strike against the Iranian regime was bold, necessary, and long overdue. Iran has spent decades killing Americans and pursuing a nuclear weapon. Praying for our troops and their families—and for a swift end to this conflict."The vote on Thursday afternoon gave lawmakers an opportunity to demand congressional approval before any further attacks are carried out. The vote forced them to take a stand on a war shaping the fate of U.S. military members, countless other lives and the future of the region.-The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Kansas U.S. Senators explain their vote on War Powers Resolution

Concession companies at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) are gearing up for the FIFA 2026 World Cup by planning to increase staff. 

A hiring fair hosted by Vantage Group will be held on March 12 at the airport for various positions. Companies like Dunkin’ Donuts, Smoothie King, and others will be hiring immediately for open positions. Prospective employees are encouraged to bring resumes and valid identification to the fair, which aims to prepare for the influx of visitors expected in Kansas City during the World Cup. 

Free parking will be available for attendees at the event.

Concession companies at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) are gearing up for the FIFA 2026 World Cup by planning to increase staff. A hiring fair hosted by Vantage Group will be held on March 12 at the airport for various positions. Companies like Dunkin’ Donuts, Smoothie King, and others will be hiring immediately for open positions. Prospective employees are encouraged to bring resumes and valid identification to the fair, which aims to prepare for the influx of visitors expected in Kansas City during the World Cup. Free parking will be available for attendees at the event.

Kansas City Airport Concessions to Host Hiring Fair Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup

<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/" target="_blank">BUSINESS WIRE</a>

KANSAS CITY—-EPR Properties announced Thursday that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a portfolio of seven regional parks from Six Flags Entertainment Corporation for a gross transactional value of $342 million, of which the Company provided approximately $315 million and our operating tenants provided the balance, including funds for working capital and capital improvements. This transaction significantly expands the Company's attractions portfolio and represents its largest acquisition since 2017.

<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/blog/looking-forward-a-new-chapter-for-six-flags?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWihBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsYzZtakF3WTVuRkxQZXZac3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkaAETJ4zMV0das0yoP6MkXkVMOgW3h5bzqF6ejIleo_FtIJzLiF41qZtpNt_aem_so5pEBI0IvQUgjNyUMGUwA">Click here for more detail</a>s on what the sale means for park guests

The seven parks comprise over 1,600 acres, featuring 418 attractions across five states and Canada, and drawing approximately 4.5 million annual attendees. The six regional parks that are located throughout the U.S. will be leased to and operated by Enchanted Parks (formerly Innovative Attraction Management) pursuant to a long-term master lease, and the one park located in Canada will be leased to and operated by La Ronde Operations, Inc. following the completion of the transaction. Both entities are proven operators with which the Company has an existing relationship.

"This strategic acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to expand our attractions portfolio with high-quality experiential real estate assets in established regional markets," said Gregory K. Silvers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EPR Properties. "These properties embody the essential characteristics we seek: delivering stable, long-term cash flows, strong drive-to accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant underlying land value. This transaction aligns with our disciplined investment criteria and accelerates our strategic expansion into experiential properties that create enduring value for our shareholders.”

Properties Included In Transaction

The company has acquired the non-Six Flags branded property names as part of the transaction and acquired rights to the Six Flags brand through 2026. The transaction is expected to close toward the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second quarter, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and third-party approvals. No significant impact on guests is expected during this transition. The parks will continue their regular operating schedules, and all season passes sold will be recognized through the 2026 operating season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698950143386.png" alt="Courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.businesswire.com/" target="_blank">BUSINESS WIRE</a>KANSAS CITY—-EPR Properties announced Thursday that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a portfolio of seven regional parks from Six Flags Entertainment Corporation for a gross transactional value of $342 million, of which the Company provided approximately $315 million and our operating tenants provided the balance, including funds for working capital and capital improvements. This transaction significantly expands the Company's attractions portfolio and represents its largest acquisition since 2017.<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/blog/looking-forward-a-new-chapter-for-six-flags?fbclid=IwY2xjawQWihBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFsYzZtakF3WTVuRkxQZXZac3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHkaAETJ4zMV0das0yoP6MkXkVMOgW3h5bzqF6ejIleo_FtIJzLiF41qZtpNt_aem_so5pEBI0IvQUgjNyUMGUwA">Click here for more detail</a>s on what the sale means for park guestsThe seven parks comprise over 1,600 acres, featuring 418 attractions across five states and Canada, and drawing approximately 4.5 million annual attendees. The six regional parks that are located throughout the U.S. will be leased to and operated by Enchanted Parks (formerly Innovative Attraction Management) pursuant to a long-term master lease, and the one park located in Canada will be leased to and operated by La Ronde Operations, Inc. following the completion of the transaction. Both entities are proven operators with which the Company has an existing relationship."This strategic acquisition represents a compelling opportunity to expand our attractions portfolio with high-quality experiential real estate assets in established regional markets," said Gregory K. Silvers, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EPR Properties. "These properties embody the essential characteristics we seek: delivering stable, long-term cash flows, strong drive-to accessibility, multi-generational appeal, and significant underlying land value. This transaction aligns with our disciplined investment criteria and accelerates our strategic expansion into experiential properties that create enduring value for our shareholders.”Properties Included In TransactionU.S. Parks – Enchanted Parks<ul>
 <li>Worlds of Fun – Amusement &amp; Waterpark – Kansas City, MO</li><li>Valleyfair – Amusement &amp; Waterpark – Minneapolis, MN</li><li>Six Flags St. Louis – Amusement &amp; Waterpark – St. Louis, MO</li><li>Schlitterbahn Waterpark Galveston – Waterpark – Galveston TX</li><li>Michigan’s Adventure – Amusement &amp; Waterpark – Grand Rapids, MI</li><li>Six Flags Great Escape – Amusement &amp; Waterpark - Queensbury, NY</li>
 </ul>Canadian Park<ul>
 <li>Six Flags La Ronde – Amusement Park - Montreal, QC</li>
 </ul>Investment Highlights<ul>
 <li>Properties Underwritten at a 2.0x Coverage</li><li>Compelling Valuation</li><li>New Focused Operators with Capital Infusion</li><li>High Quality Real Estate</li><li>Strong Master Lease</li>
 </ul>The company has acquired the non-Six Flags branded property names as part of the transaction and acquired rights to the Six Flags brand through 2026. The transaction is expected to close toward the end of the first quarter or beginning of the second quarter, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions and third-party approvals. No significant impact on guests is expected during this transition. The parks will continue their regular operating schedules, and all season passes sold will be recognized through the 2026 operating season.

Worlds of Fun sold as part of $342 million deal

SHAWNEE COUNTY– The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office recently assisted authorities in Trinity County, California, after receiving information related to a possible homicide involving two family members in Weaverville, California.

On Tuesday, a Shawnee County resident contacted the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office to report information regarding a possible homicide involving relatives who were reportedly living in Weaverville, California. Investigators with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division met with the reporting party and gathered information regarding the report.

Investigators relayed the information to the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office, which then initiated its investigation.

Based in part on the information received, investigators with the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office obtained and executed a search warrant at a residence in the 3100 block of Bear Creek Road in Weaverville. During the search, investigators located the deceased body of Darren Jackson, 58, in a compost pile on the property. Multiple deceased puppies were also located.

Kevin Jackson, 54, the victim’s brother, was taken into custody in connection with the investigation and arrested on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder, Felon in possession of a firearm,&nbsp;Felon in possession of ammunition and animal cruelty.

SHAWNEE COUNTY– The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office recently assisted authorities in Trinity County, California, after receiving information related to a possible homicide involving two family members in Weaverville, California.On Tuesday, a Shawnee County resident contacted the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office to report information regarding a possible homicide involving relatives who were reportedly living in Weaverville, California. Investigators with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division met with the reporting party and gathered information regarding the report.Investigators relayed the information to the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office, which then initiated its investigation.Based in part on the information received, investigators with the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office obtained and executed a search warrant at a residence in the 3100 block of Bear Creek Road in Weaverville. During the search, investigators located the deceased body of Darren Jackson, 58, in a compost pile on the property. Multiple deceased puppies were also located.Kevin Jackson, 54, the victim’s brother, was taken into custody in connection with the investigation and arrested on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder, Felon in possession of a firearm,&nbsp;Felon in possession of ammunition and animal cruelty.

Tip to Kan. sheriff helps in arrest of Calif. man for killing his brother

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Textron Aviation team is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Russell W. “Russ” Meyer Jr., the longtime chairman and CEO, and Chairman Emeritus, of Cessna Aircraft Company.

Mr. Meyer was an aviation legend, leading Cessna for nearly 30 years and overseeing the development and launch of Citation business jets. He played a key role in stabilizing the industry through the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, and earned top aviation awards including two Collier Trophies, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.

He believed in using aviation to help others, founding the&nbsp;<a href="https://airlift.txtav.com/">Special Olympics Airlift</a>&nbsp;— which has transported athletes to the Games for forty years — and supporting workforce development by starting Wichita's 21st Street Training Program to create career opportunities for underserved residents. His passion for youth development extended to many important charitable organizations and causes.

“Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known. I held Russ in the highest regard, not only for his extraordinary business acumen, but for the integrity, humility and genuine care he showed for people at every stage of his life. He led with conviction, compassion and an unwavering belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve something greater than oneself,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of the entire Textron Aviation team, I extend my deepest condolences to Russ’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I was truly privileged to know Russ as a colleague, a mentor and a friend.”

Russ leaves an enduring legacy of innovation, advocacy and service. He shaped our company, our industry and the Wichita, Kansas, community in ways that will be felt for generations to come.&nbsp; For more on the li

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772709208520.png" alt="Russ Meyer and Arnold Palmer" />
 <figcaption>Russ Meyer and Arnold Palmer</figcaption>
 </figure>Textron AviationSEDGWICK COUNTY —The Textron Aviation team is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Russell W. “Russ” Meyer Jr., the longtime chairman and CEO, and Chairman Emeritus, of Cessna Aircraft Company.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772709096554.png" alt="Russ Meyer" />
 <figcaption>Russ Meyer</figcaption>
 </figure>Mr. Meyer was an aviation legend, leading Cessna for nearly 30 years and overseeing the development and launch of Citation business jets. He played a key role in stabilizing the industry through the General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1994, and earned top aviation awards including two Collier Trophies, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy and induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame.He believed in using aviation to help others, founding the&nbsp;<a href="https://airlift.txtav.com/">Special Olympics Airlift</a>&nbsp;— which has transported athletes to the Games for forty years — and supporting workforce development by starting Wichita's 21st Street Training Program to create career opportunities for underserved residents. His passion for youth development extended to many important charitable organizations and causes.“Russ was a remarkable human being and one of the most respected leaders I have ever known. I held Russ in the highest regard, not only for his extraordinary business acumen, but for the integrity, humility and genuine care he showed for people at every stage of his life. He led with conviction, compassion and an unwavering belief that leadership carries a responsibility to serve something greater than oneself,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “On behalf of the entire Textron Aviation team, I extend my deepest condolences to Russ’s family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. I was truly privileged to know Russ as a colleague, a mentor and a friend.”Russ leaves an enduring legacy of innovation, advocacy and service. He shaped our company, our industry and the Wichita, Kansas, community in ways that will be felt for generations to come.&nbsp; For more on the li

Aviation legend, former Cessna CEO has died

On Wednesday, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East in route to the United States, as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans return home.


Additional flights will be surged across the region and American citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel interested in the Department's charter flight or ground transportation options, should complete the Crisis Intake Form at <a href="https://t.co/ZUvr9gptAQ" target="_blank">http://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake</a> or contact the State Department's 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772675869202.png" alt="Department of State" />
 <figcaption>Department of State</figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, a Department of State charter flight of American citizens departed the Middle East in route to the United States, as part of our ongoing efforts to assist Americans return home.

Additional flights will be surged across the region and American citizens in UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Israel interested in the Department's charter flight or ground transportation options, should complete the Crisis Intake Form at <a href="https://t.co/ZUvr9gptAQ" target="_blank">http://mytravel.state.gov/s/crisis-intake</a> or contact the State Department's 24/7 Task Force at +1-202-501-4444.

US begins charter flights for stranded Americans wanting to leave the Middle East

KIOWA COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office detention officer Monday afternoon for child sex crimes.

On Monday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m., KBI agents arrested Dustin Dean Chartier, 36, of Greensburg, at the Kiowa County Courthouse, according to a media release from the KBI.

 Chartier was arrested on requested charges of rape, aggravated sexual battery, indecent liberties with a child, lewd and lascivious behavior, and two counts of indecent solicitation of a child.

In December 2025, the Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office requested the KBI investigate allegations of sex abuse of a minor by a detention officer in 2021. Chartier was placed on administrative leave during the KBI investigation. While investigating the initial allegation, a second victim disclosed another sex abuse incident, prompting the KBI to open an additional investigation. The Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office was fully cooperative with the investigation.

Following his arrest Chartier was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility.

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.kbi.ks.gov/sar.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772649725973.png" alt="Chartier-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Chartier-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>KIOWA COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office detention officer Monday afternoon for child sex crimes.On Monday, March 2, at 2:00 p.m., KBI agents arrested Dustin Dean Chartier, 36, of Greensburg, at the Kiowa County Courthouse, according to a media release from the KBI. Chartier was arrested on requested charges of rape, aggravated sexual battery, indecent liberties with a child, lewd and lascivious behavior, and two counts of indecent solicitation of a child.In December 2025, the Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office requested the KBI investigate allegations of sex abuse of a minor by a detention officer in 2021. Chartier was placed on administrative leave during the KBI investigation. While investigating the initial allegation, a second victim disclosed another sex abuse incident, prompting the KBI to open an additional investigation. The Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office was fully cooperative with the investigation.Following his arrest Chartier was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility.Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.kbi.ks.gov/sar.

KBI: Two child victims report sex abuse involving Kan. jail deputy 

The Department of War announced the death of two more Army Reserve Soldiers who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, 54, of Sacramento, Calif., was at the scene of the incident on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, and is believed to be the individual who perished at the scene, according to a statement from the DOW.

 Positive identification of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan will be completed by the medical examiner.  The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772674192553.png" alt="Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan-photo U.S. Army Reserve" />
 <figcaption>Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan-photo U.S. Army Reserve</figcaption>
 </figure>The Department of War announced the death of two more Army Reserve Soldiers who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, 54, of Sacramento, Calif., was at the scene of the incident on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, and is believed to be the individual who perished at the scene, according to a statement from the DOW. Positive identification of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan will be completed by the medical examiner. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772674257970.png" alt="Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien&nbsp;-photo U.S. Army Reserve" />
 <figcaption>Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien&nbsp;-photo U.S. Army Reserve</figcaption>
 </figure>Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien, 45, of Indianola, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. The Soldier was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa. The incident is under investigation.

Pentagon releases names of 2 more U.S. soldiers killed in Iran conflict

On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather.

"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”

- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772661637315.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Football coach Lou Holtz has died.On their social media page the University of Notre Dame&nbsp; President Rev. Robert A. Dowd wrote, “Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“Notre Dame mourns the loss of Lou Holtz, a legendary football coach, a beloved member of the Notre Dame family and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very… <a href="https://t.co/dM53csuvJ0">https://t.co/dM53csuvJ0</a>&mdash; University of Notre Dame (@NotreDame) <a href="https://twitter.com/NotreDame/status/2029313919567946016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From the family of Lou Holtz <a href="https://t.co/aYWiXYVnLq">pic.twitter.com/aYWiXYVnLq</a>&mdash; The Fighting Irish (@FightingIrish) <a href="https://twitter.com/FightingIrish/status/2029308530398724260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Among his many accomplishments, we will remember him above all as a teacher, leader and mentor who brought out the very best in his players, on and off the field, earning their respect and admiration for a lifetime. In the years since leaving the head football coach position, Lou, together with his beloved wife, Beth, supported Notre Dame in innumerable ways, among them making possible the refurbishment of four residence hall chapels and the construction of the Beth and Lou Holtz Grand Reading Room on the first floor of Hesburgh Library — tangible signs of their great love for their Catholic faith and the mission of Our Lady’s University. Whenever Notre Dame called to ask for his help, Lou answered with his characteristic generosity, and he will be sorely missed. The prayers of the entire Notre Dame community are with his family and many friends in this time of sorrow. May he rest in the peace and love of Christ.”- University of Notre Dame President Rev. Robert A. Dowd, C.S.C.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz dead at 89

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just after 11:30p.m. Feb. 28, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 at 102nd Road on a Toyota Tacoma, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

A probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search of the vehicle, cocaine, marijuana and open alcohol containers were found.

Francisco Ventura-Cabrales, 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, driving while suspended, and transporting an open container.

Hector David Cerillo-Ventura, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for transporting an open container.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772416091883.png" alt="Cerillo-Ventura photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Cerillo-Ventura photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.Just after 11:30p.m. Feb. 28, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 at 102nd Road on a Toyota Tacoma, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.A probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search of the vehicle, cocaine, marijuana and open alcohol containers were found.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772416063500.png" alt="Ventura-Cabrales-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Ventura-Cabrales-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>Francisco Ventura-Cabrales, 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, driving while suspended, and transporting an open container.Hector David Cerillo-Ventura, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for transporting an open container.

Sheriff: Kan. men were driving with cocaine, open containers

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

The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department and The&nbsp;Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported Tuesday on&nbsp;a confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated adult, according to a statement from the department. There&nbsp;has&nbsp;not&nbsp;been a case of measles in&nbsp;a&nbsp;Kansas City&nbsp;resident&nbsp;since 2018.&nbsp;

“Measles&nbsp;remains&nbsp;one of the most contagious diseases, with the potential for serious complications. The good news is that MMR vaccination is an effective way to prevent measles.”&nbsp;said Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department.&nbsp;“We are working swiftly to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;the source of exposure and notify anyone who may have been exposed. We urge residents to review their vaccination status and consult their healthcare provider if they have symptoms such as fever,&nbsp;cough&nbsp;or rash.”&nbsp;

Keep in mind this measles vaccination guidance:&nbsp;

People who are at risk for measles infection are those who have not been vaccinated.&nbsp;

If you were born before 1957 or have been vaccinated with the MMR, you are unlikely to get measles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you have not been vaccinated or are unsure,&nbsp;call&nbsp;your healthcare provider or the Kansas City Health Department at 816-513-6152.&nbsp;

Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days&nbsp;after contact with the virus.&nbsp;Common symptoms include:&nbsp;

Anyone with measles symptoms should call their healthcare provider before visiting to avoid spreading the virus.&nbsp;

Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears. The rash typically appears as flat, red spots that initially break out on the face, near the hairline, and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We are urging people who are ill or exhibiting symptoms similar to measles to stay home unless they are seeking medical attention.&nbsp;Before visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead and let the provider know of the measles exposure so that steps can be taken to protect other patients and staff, especially if you have a fever and rash.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Residents can receive Measles vaccinations at the Kansas City Health Department Immunization Clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The measles vaccines are free for children under 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to contact their primary care provider or call the Health Department at 816-513-6008.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on measles, please visit:&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741908251964.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department and The&nbsp;Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported Tuesday on&nbsp;a confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated adult, according to a statement from the department. There&nbsp;has&nbsp;not&nbsp;been a case of measles in&nbsp;a&nbsp;Kansas City&nbsp;resident&nbsp;since 2018.&nbsp;“Measles&nbsp;remains&nbsp;one of the most contagious diseases, with the potential for serious complications. The good news is that MMR vaccination is an effective way to prevent measles.”&nbsp;said Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department.&nbsp;“We are working swiftly to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;the source of exposure and notify anyone who may have been exposed. We urge residents to review their vaccination status and consult their healthcare provider if they have symptoms such as fever,&nbsp;cough&nbsp;or rash.”&nbsp;Keep in mind this measles vaccination guidance:&nbsp;People who are at risk for measles infection are those who have not been vaccinated.&nbsp;If you were born before 1957 or have been vaccinated with the MMR, you are unlikely to get measles.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have not been vaccinated or are unsure,&nbsp;call&nbsp;your healthcare provider or the Kansas City Health Department at 816-513-6152.&nbsp;Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days&nbsp;after contact with the virus.&nbsp;Common symptoms include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>High fever (may spike to more than 104°F)&nbsp;</li><li>Cough&nbsp;</li><li>Runny nose&nbsp;</li><li>Red, watery eyes&nbsp;</li><li>Tiny white spots with bluish-white centers found inside the mouth (Koplik spots)&nbsp;</li><li>Blotchy rash on the skin which spreads from head down to feet&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Anyone with measles symptoms should call their healthcare provider before visiting to avoid spreading the virus.&nbsp;Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears. The rash typically appears as flat, red spots that initially break out on the face, near the hairline, and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are urging people who are ill or exhibiting symptoms similar to measles to stay home unless they are seeking medical attention.&nbsp;Before visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead and let the provider know of the measles exposure so that steps can be taken to protect other patients and staff, especially if you have a fever and rash.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Residents can receive Measles vaccinations at the Kansas City Health Department Immunization Clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The measles vaccines are free for children under 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to contact their primary care provider or call the Health Department at 816-513-6008.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information on measles, please visit:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Kansas City Health Department:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcmo.gov/city-hall/departments/health/measles">Protect Yourself and Our Community from Measles | CITY OF KANSAS CITY | OFFICIAL WEBSITE</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MODHSS):&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/measles/">Measles | Health &amp; Senior Services</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/">https://www.cdc.gov/measles/</a>&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>

Measles reported in Kansas City

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772631693206.png" alt="Secretary of War and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine during the Wednesday morning briefing-image from DOW video" />
 <figcaption>Secretary of War and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine during the Wednesday morning briefing-image from DOW video</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu">https://t.co/PiqQpVIrMu</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wc1e0B0um7">pic.twitter.com/Wc1e0B0um7</a>&mdash; Department of War 🇺🇸 (@DeptofWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofWar/status/2029193757162139762?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SECWAR</a> &quot;Last night, we sunk their prize ship — the Soleimani. Looks like <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> got him twice.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/vEX5MjpBs0">pic.twitter.com/vEX5MjpBs0</a>&mdash; DOW Rapid Response (@DOWResponse) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOWResponse/status/2029188047229575327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen. Dan Caine gives an update on Operation Epic Fury. <a href="https://t.co/gdrYxAI3Sw">pic.twitter.com/gdrYxAI3Sw</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2029188674613555613?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Secretary Pete Hegseth on Operation Epic Fury: &quot;America is winning decisively, devastatingly and without mercy...This is not a Mission Accomplished situation. This is simply a reality check...The terms of this war will be set by us at every step.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/BAwTFEvIii">pic.twitter.com/BAwTFEvIii</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2029188426990280704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥 Details on US submarine torpedo attack on Iranian warship

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just before 1p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to the area of 70th and Cleveland on a shooting call, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. On arrival officers located a vehicle stopped in the road at that location. Officers were directed inside the vehicle where they located a male shooting victim.

Officers rendered aid to him and called for EMS. EMS transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries. Detectives responded to the scene to begin their investigation along side of crime scene investigators.

A short time later detectives were notified the victim was pronounced deceased from his injuries at the hospital.

Preliminary information indicates the victim and multiple other people were at a location nearby on 71st Street. When they came in contact with one or more suspects. That interaction escalated to shots being fired and the victim was struck.

The victim and others entered a vehicle and left the scene and drove to the location where police contacted them on 70th and Cleveland

Police have not reported an arrest and did not release the victim's name.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772583913006.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 1p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to the area of 70th and Cleveland on a shooting call, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. On arrival officers located a vehicle stopped in the road at that location. Officers were directed inside the vehicle where they located a male shooting victim.Officers rendered aid to him and called for EMS. EMS transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries. Detectives responded to the scene to begin their investigation along side of crime scene investigators.A short time later detectives were notified the victim was pronounced deceased from his injuries at the hospital.Preliminary information indicates the victim and multiple other people were at a location nearby on 71st Street. When they came in contact with one or more suspects. That interaction escalated to shots being fired and the victim was struck.The victim and others entered a vehicle and left the scene and drove to the location where police contacted them on 70th and ClevelandPolice have not reported an arrest and did not release the victim's name.

Homicide: Dispute led to deadly gunfire in Kansas City

With bill sponsors seeking to protect women, some warn against ‘unintended consequences’

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

With blonde hair flowing over her shoulders and spilling onto a blousy blue mini dress, Landon Patterson sat in front of the Missouri House Emerging Issues Committee Monday.

The committee was debating bills that sought to separate public restrooms and changing rooms by sex as assigned at birth, rather than gender identity. The bills varied in scope, but they all would require Patterson to use the men’s restroom, which she hasn’t used in over a decade.

“It caused no harm (to use women’s facilities), not to my classmates, not to my school, not to my community,” she said. “It gave me dignity and allowed me to focus on my education instead of fighting to exist.”

The hearing came three days after lawmakers in neighboring Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/26/trans-kansans-struggle-with-reality-of-legislatures-cruelty-as-drivers-licenses-are-invalidated/" target="_blank">passed a law invalidating the licenses</a>&nbsp;of those who have changed their gender marker and barring transgender Kansans from using public restrooms that align with their gender identity.

Some worried that Missouri was pursuing the same kind of law, with one bill in particular that would create new definitions of “male” and “female” throughout state law. These definitions separate the sexes by whether their reproductive systems utilize eggs or sperm.

Keith Rose, who is a legal advocate with nonprofit law firm Center for Growing Justice, said this could affect whether Missourians can change gender markers on their birth certificates. Currently, the state requires proof of gender reassignment surgery or a court order to switch one’s gender marker — a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/19/missouri-agency-quietly-made-it-harder-to-change-gender-marker-on-drivers-licenses/">rule established in 2024</a>&nbsp;after lawmakers complained about a transgender woman using a dressing space at a private gym.

The bill, filed by Republican state Rep. Becky Laubinger of Park Hills, would require all public buildings to separate restrooms, changing rooms and sleeping areas by her proposed definition of sex.

It is a protective measure, she said, for spaces where people are “most vulnerable.” She gave a secondhand story about two men “who made no attempt to look female” who used a women’s restroom and claimed they identified as women.

As Democratic lawmakers on the committee pressed Laubinger about what danger her legislation seeks to protect people from, the two sides agreed. It wasn’t transgender people that were the problem, but predators who Laubinger described as “riding the coattails of people who are gender dysphoric.”

As long as places allow transgender people to use facilities aligning with their gender identity, she said, those seeking to do harm could claim to be transgender.

But Democrats and a majority of those who testified Monday said “bathroom bans” place targets on people’s backs rather than protect.

Stevie Miller, a West Plains resident, said his presence in a women’s room, as the bill would require, would undoubtedly make families uncomfortable.

“I’m scared of what will happen to me when someone sees me follow their little girl into the restroom, following the law,” he said. “I am supposed to go in that room.”

Other transgender Missourians posed similar hypotheticals: did lawmakers really want them in the other restroom? The transgender men, many bearded and broad shouldered, worried they would be unwelcome in the women’s room. Transgender women told the committee that the legislation would put them at greater risk of assault.

May Hall, a Columbia resident, said they use men’s facilities when a place is busy and there are enough people around. Hall, who usually banters through public testimony with a few quips and jabs, was unusually bleak.

“I’ve been grabbed. I’ve been groped. I’ve been called slurs. I’ve been cat-called,” Hall said. “It is not comfortable.”

Laubinger’s bill would be enforced through lawsuits, allowing those who witness someone in the opposite sex’s restrooms to sue the public entity operating the facilities.

A bill by state Rep. Brandon Phelps, a Warrensburg Republican, would withhold state funding when a violation occurs. While more narrow than Laubinger’s proposal, Phelps’ bill would create sex-designated restrooms for public buildings, K-12 schools and universities.

It would also bar multi-occupancy restrooms that don’t have male and female delineations, such as the all-gender facilities at the Kansas City Municipal Airport.

The logistics, though, drew questions. State Rep. Wick Thomas, a Kansas City Democrat and the House’s first nonbinary lawmaker, asked what someone would do if they think a transgender person is using the wrong restroom.

“You would call the police,” Phelps said. “Let them take care of it.”

Aro Royston, a LGBTQ+ advocate from St. Louis, said police presence “threatens (his) life” as a Black man.

“These bills create hostile environments that drive people away rather than drive people to strengthen communities, he said. “This bill also creates detrimental problems, and it is unenforceable without violating everyone’s privacy.”

The third bill heard Monday, filed by Republican state Rep. Wendy Hausman of St. Peters, takes a different approach to bathroom restrictions. The legislation would protect private schools from being sued for having sex-designated spaces.

In Missouri, a handful of cases have addressed public schools’ restrictions on transgender students’ use of restrooms. Last year, the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/10/missouri-supreme-court-rejects-transgender-students-sex-discrimination-claim/">state Supreme Court ruled against a former Blue Springs student</a>&nbsp;who alleged the school district discriminated against him on the basis of sex for preventing him from using locker rooms. The court’s decision, though, was based on a lack of evidence and did not seek to rule on the constitutionality of restroom restrictions.

Hausman, like the two other bills’ sponsors, said the legislation was a safeguard.

“It’s not an attack on any group of individuals,” she said. “This is just a protection for these private schools and what they would like to do.”

The committee did not take immediate action on the legislation, adjourning after five hours of testimony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772623274017.png" alt=" Missouri lawmakers have filed bills seeking to restrict transgender people from using restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)." />
 <figcaption> Missouri lawmakers have filed bills seeking to restrict transgender people from using restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity (Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>With bill sponsors seeking to protect women, some warn against ‘unintended consequences’</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>With blonde hair flowing over her shoulders and spilling onto a blousy blue mini dress, Landon Patterson sat in front of the Missouri House Emerging Issues Committee Monday.The committee was debating bills that sought to separate public restrooms and changing rooms by sex as assigned at birth, rather than gender identity. The bills varied in scope, but they all would require Patterson to use the men’s restroom, which she hasn’t used in over a decade.“It caused no harm (to use women’s facilities), not to my classmates, not to my school, not to my community,” she said. “It gave me dignity and allowed me to focus on my education instead of fighting to exist.”The hearing came three days after lawmakers in neighboring Kansas&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/26/trans-kansans-struggle-with-reality-of-legislatures-cruelty-as-drivers-licenses-are-invalidated/" target="_blank">passed a law invalidating the licenses</a>&nbsp;of those who have changed their gender marker and barring transgender Kansans from using public restrooms that align with their gender identity.Some worried that Missouri was pursuing the same kind of law, with one bill in particular that would create new definitions of “male” and “female” throughout state law. These definitions separate the sexes by whether their reproductive systems utilize eggs or sperm.Keith Rose, who is a legal advocate with nonprofit law firm Center for Growing Justice, said this could affect whether Missourians can change gender markers on their birth certificates. Currently, the state requires proof of gender reassignment surgery or a court order to switch one’s gender marker — a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/19/missouri-agency-quietly-made-it-harder-to-change-gender-marker-on-drivers-licenses/">rule established in 2024</a>&nbsp;after lawmakers complained about a transgender woman using a dressing space at a private gym.The bill, filed by Republican state Rep. Becky Laubinger of Park Hills, would require all public buildings to separate restrooms, changing rooms and sleeping areas by her proposed definition of sex.It is a protective measure, she said, for spaces where people are “most vulnerable.” She gave a secondhand story about two men “who made no attempt to look female” who used a women’s restroom and claimed they identified as women.As Democratic lawmakers on the committee pressed Laubinger about what danger her legislation seeks to protect people from, the two sides agreed. It wasn’t transgender people that were the problem, but predators who Laubinger described as “riding the coattails of people who are gender dysphoric.”As long as places allow transgender people to use facilities aligning with their gender identity, she said, those seeking to do harm could claim to be transgender.But Democrats and a majority of those who testified Monday said “bathroom bans” place targets on people’s backs rather than protect.Stevie Miller, a West Plains resident, said his presence in a women’s room, as the bill would require, would undoubtedly make families uncomfortable.“I’m scared of what will happen to me when someone sees me follow their little girl into the restroom, following the law,” he said. “I am supposed to go in that room.”Other transgender Missourians posed similar hypotheticals: did lawmakers really want them in the other restroom? The transgender men, many bearded and broad shouldered, worried they would be unwelcome in the women’s room. Transgender women told the committee that the legislation would put them at greater risk of assault.May Hall, a Columbia resident, said they use men’s facilities when a place is busy and there are enough people around. Hall, who usually banters through public testimony with a few quips and jabs, was unusually bleak.“I’ve been grabbed. I’ve been groped. I’ve been called slurs. I’ve been cat-called,” Hall said. “It is not comfortable.”Laubinger’s bill would be enforced through lawsuits, allowing those who witness someone in the opposite sex’s restrooms to sue the public entity operating the facilities.A bill by state Rep. Brandon Phelps, a Warrensburg Republican, would withhold state funding when a violation occurs. While more narrow than Laubinger’s proposal, Phelps’ bill would create sex-designated restrooms for public buildings, K-12 schools and universities.It would also bar multi-occupancy restrooms that don’t have male and female delineations, such as the all-gender facilities at the Kansas City Municipal Airport.The logistics, though, drew questions. State Rep. Wick Thomas, a Kansas City Democrat and the House’s first nonbinary lawmaker, asked what someone would do if they think a transgender person is using the wrong restroom.“You would call the police,” Phelps said. “Let them take care of it.”Aro Royston, a LGBTQ+ advocate from St. Louis, said police presence “threatens (his) life” as a Black man.“These bills create hostile environments that drive people away rather than drive people to strengthen communities, he said. “This bill also creates detrimental problems, and it is unenforceable without violating everyone’s privacy.”The third bill heard Monday, filed by Republican state Rep. Wendy Hausman of St. Peters, takes a different approach to bathroom restrictions. The legislation would protect private schools from being sued for having sex-designated spaces.In Missouri, a handful of cases have addressed public schools’ restrictions on transgender students’ use of restrooms. Last year, the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/10/missouri-supreme-court-rejects-transgender-students-sex-discrimination-claim/">state Supreme Court ruled against a former Blue Springs student</a>&nbsp;who alleged the school district discriminated against him on the basis of sex for preventing him from using locker rooms. The court’s decision, though, was based on a lack of evidence and did not seek to rule on the constitutionality of restroom restrictions.Hausman, like the two other bills’ sponsors, said the legislation was a safeguard.“It’s not an attack on any group of individuals,” she said. “This is just a protection for these private schools and what they would like to do.”The committee did not take immediate action on the legislation, adjourning after five hours of testimony.

House committee debates restroom restrictions for transgender Missourians

LANSING, Kansas. –&nbsp;Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Raymond Michael Sanders, 32, died Tuesday afternoon, according to statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Sanders was found unresponsive in his cell. Staff and Emergency Medical Service personnel administered life-saving measures but were unable to revive him. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

Sanders was serving a 10-month sentence for parole violations. He previously served 33 months on four convictions of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer in Jefferson County, Kansas.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772585407204.png" alt="Sanders photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Sanders photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>LANSING, Kansas. –&nbsp;Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF) resident Raymond Michael Sanders, 32, died Tuesday afternoon, according to statement from the Kansas Department of Corrections. Sanders was found unresponsive in his cell. Staff and Emergency Medical Service personnel administered life-saving measures but were unable to revive him. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.Sanders was serving a 10-month sentence for parole violations. He previously served 33 months on four convictions of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer in Jefferson County, Kansas.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Kan. inmate with conviction of assault on law enforcement officer found dead

MARION COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged child sex crimes involving a teacher.

On February 23, the Marion County Sheriff's office Lt. Detective Aaron Christner received a report on inappropriate communication between a student and a teacher from Peabody-Burns High School, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

The investigation revealed the teacher had sexual contact with a student. With assistance from the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children's Task Force, further evidence was discovered. On Tuesday, 30-year-old Brett T.&nbsp; McGee was arrested. He was booked into jail just before noon Wednesday, according to online jail records.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is listed as the&nbsp;Vocational Agriculture teacher at Peabody-Burns USD 398, according to the school web site.

The Marion County Sheriff asked that anyone with additional information on the case or any other mistreatment of a child to call them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772568670541.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MARION COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged child sex crimes involving a teacher.On February 23, the Marion County Sheriff's office Lt. Detective Aaron Christner received a report on inappropriate communication between a student and a teacher from Peabody-Burns High School, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772568112207.png" alt="McGee photo McPherson County" />
 <figcaption>McGee photo McPherson County</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed the teacher had sexual contact with a student. With assistance from the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children's Task Force, further evidence was discovered. On Tuesday, 30-year-old Brett T.&nbsp; McGee was arrested. He was booked into jail just before noon Wednesday, according to online jail records.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is listed as the&nbsp;Vocational Agriculture teacher at Peabody-Burns USD 398, according to the school web site.The Marion County Sheriff asked that anyone with additional information on the case or any other mistreatment of a child to call them.

Kansas teacher jailed for alleged sexual contact with a student

&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary&nbsp;Kristi Noem&nbsp;defended her department’s immigration enforcement tactics in front of a Senate committee on Tuesday.&nbsp;It was her first congressional appearance since the shooting deaths of the two protesters in Minneapolis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772556735274.png" alt=" Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is sworn in before the heariang-Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption> Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is sworn in before the heariang-Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary&nbsp;Kristi Noem&nbsp;defended her department’s immigration enforcement tactics in front of a Senate committee on Tuesday.&nbsp;It was her first congressional appearance since the shooting deaths of the two protesters in Minneapolis.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH: Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem opening statement before Senate <a href="https://twitter.com/JudiciaryDems?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JudiciaryDems</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SenJudiciaryGOP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@senjudiciarygop</a>. <a href="https://t.co/a4aTo4UYM5">pic.twitter.com/a4aTo4UYM5</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028857980146290948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenBlumenthal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenBlumenthal</a> introduces U.S. citizens at hearing who were apprehended by ICE agents: &quot;Wouldn&#39;t&#39; you agree that shooting Marimar Martinez on her way to donate clothing at her church, a U.S citizen from Chicago, is wrong? <a href="https://t.co/ovFdDCozFE">pic.twitter.com/ovFdDCozFE</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028873152185454693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenAmyKlobuchar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenAmyKlobuchar</a> (D-MN): &quot;In one month in the city of Minneapolis, when you look at the three fatalities that were results of shooting, two of three were committed by federal agents. Are you aware of that? Secretary Kristi Noem: &quot;Yes, I am.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/SN9R762SJd">pic.twitter.com/SN9R762SJd</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028862795614208244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenJohnKennedy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenJohnKennedy</a> grills DHS Secretary Noem: &quot;How do you square that concern with waste, which I share, with the fact that you have spent $220 million running television advertisements that feature you prominently?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/1zwl2wghyP">pic.twitter.com/1zwl2wghyP</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028862151146815690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorDurbin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorDurbin</a> asks DHS Secretary Noem on Renée Good, Alex Pretti and others: &quot;Do you retract these statement identifying these individuals as domestic terrorists?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/8LGa7uZZed">pic.twitter.com/8LGa7uZZed</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028858460180250646?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenBooker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenBooker</a>: &quot;This is a reckless and out of control agency that you are responsible for. You seem to have no situational awareness whatsoever... Either you are utterly incompetent or you are violating laws with impunity. You should step down from your position.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/IGXWpiabou">pic.twitter.com/IGXWpiabou</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2028892329944215607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Hot seat: Senators grill DHS Secretary on immigration enforcement

The Department of War on Tuesday announced the names of four Army Reserve Soldiers who were supporting Operation Epic Fury, according to a media release.

Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Neb.; Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Fla.; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minn.; and Sgt. Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. 

All Soldiers were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa. The incident is under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772586386971.png" alt="Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens-photo U.S. Army Reserve" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens-photo U.S. Army Reserve</figcaption>
 </figure>The Department of War on Tuesday announced the names of four Army Reserve Soldiers who were supporting Operation Epic Fury, according to a media release.Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Neb.; Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Fla.; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minn.; and Sgt. Declan J. Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa, died on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, during an unmanned aircraft system attack. All Soldiers were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa. The incident is under investigation.

Soldier from Nebraska among those killed in Iran conflict 

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Police have released the names of the victims in Sunday’s early morning two-vehicle crash at 10th and Quindaro.

Tiera Laster, 30 and Ashli McGough, 37, both residents of Kansas City, Kan., died from their injuries, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas Police.

Based on video obtained from the scene, the driver of the eastbound vehicle on Quindaro Boulevard crossed the double yellow line into the west bound lane and struck the vehicle driven by Laster. The driver and sole occupant of the eastbound vehicle and three passengers from Laster’s vehicle remain hospitalized in serious to critical condition.

This incident remains under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division. 

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Police have released the names of the victims in Sunday’s early morning two-vehicle crash at 10th and Quindaro.Tiera Laster, 30 and Ashli McGough, 37, both residents of Kansas City, Kan., died from their injuries, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas Police.Based on video obtained from the scene, the driver of the eastbound vehicle on Quindaro Boulevard crossed the double yellow line into the west bound lane and struck the vehicle driven by Laster. The driver and sole occupant of the eastbound vehicle and three passengers from Laster’s vehicle remain hospitalized in serious to critical condition.This incident remains under investigation by the KCKPD Traffic Division.

Police ID two Kansas women who died in wrong-way crash

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

LAWRENCE — Attorneys will argue Friday in court over whether a judge should delay enforcement of a state law that invalidates driver’s licenses and birth certificates for those who changed their gender marker and restricts bathroom use based on sex assigned at birth.

Two trans men from Lawrence&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/27/trans-men-file-lawsuit-over-kansas-law-that-restricts-bathroom-use-and-invalidates-drivers-licenses/">filed a lawsuit last week</a>&nbsp;in Douglas County District Court to challenge&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 244</a>, which took effect Feb. 26. The unnamed plaintiffs say the law violates constitutional rights to personal autonomy, privacy, equity, due process and expression, could subject them to harassment and violence, and would jeopardize their mental health and employment.

Attorneys with the American Civil Liberties Union and the Philadelphia-based Ballard Spahr law firm, which represent the plaintiffs, appeared by Zoom for a scheduling conference Tuesday in Douglas County District Court with Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and other attorneys for the state. Journalists from Kansas Reflector and the Kansas City Star and an attorney from the University of Kansas observed the hearing from an otherwise empty courtroom.

Douglas County District Judge James McCabria told attorneys they needed to find a time this week to hold oral arguments on a motion by plaintiffs for a temporary restraining order, which would block enforcement of the law. He set the hearing for Friday afternoon.

McCabria could rule quickly on the motion. He acknowledged a restraining order would be an “extraordinary remedy” for a law that has “broad application.” He noted the ruling would not be “a determination of final merits” in the case, and that he could continue to “weigh things later.”

The plaintiffs in the case are identified in court documents as Daniel Doe and Matthew Moe. During Tuesday’s hearing, the judge questioned Kobach about the use of pseudonyms. Kobach said it wasn’t typical but that he wouldn’t object, “just to make this thing move along.”

McCabria, who was appointed to the bench by Gov. Sam Brownback in 2014, said the use of pseudonyms “raises some questions,” and that he was concerned about the public’s right to know. He said he would wait until Friday to see if a news outlet objects to the plaintiffs’ request to proceed unnamed.

“I do see a reasonable and articulated reason for the request,” McCabria said.

The GOP-led Legislature fast-tracked passage of the law this year while bending rules to avoid public input and silence debate. Every Republican except Emporia Rep. Mark Schreiber voted to pass the law and to override Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto, despite objections from Democrats about the cost to local governments, harm to transgender people, unclear provisions in the law, and constitutional problems.

Republicans argued, without evidence, that the bathroom provision of the law was necessary to ensure the safety of women. They ignored the reality that the law now requires trans men to use women’s facilities.

The law contains a bounty-style provision that allows individuals who feel “aggrieved” by someone’s bathroom use to sue the individuals for monetary gain. Any public entity that fails to properly police bathrooms could be subject to a $25,000 fine on first offense and $125,000 fines on subsequent offenses.

The Kansas Department of Revenue&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/26/trans-kansans-struggle-with-reality-of-legislatures-cruelty-as-drivers-licenses-are-invalidated/">sent a letter to trans people</a>&nbsp;shortly before the law took effect to inform them their driver’s licenses were invalid. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thehandbasket.co/p/kansas-republicans-sb-244-trans-drivers-licenses" target="_blank">independent journalist Marisa Kabas</a>&nbsp;reported&nbsp;<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:ejihld4sywvvqwe67cdkn4jq/post/3mfucyhno7s2z" target="_blank">an internal KDOR memo</a>&nbsp;to DMVs says no records have been invalidated.

The memo also says the agency sent a letter to 300 Kansans, although the agency has publicly said 1,700 records were affected.

Zach Denney, a KDOR spokesman, told Kansas Reflector that while the new law invalidates licenses immediately,&nbsp;agency employees must look at each record to determine why the gender marker was changed, as some could have been changed because of data entry errors. He encouraged individuals to check their status on the KDOR website.

“The KDOR driver’s license status check page accurately reflects KDOR’s internal system, and what law enforcement entities will see if they check a license,” he said. “The system is being updated, and as it is, the status check website will reflect changes made within the system.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772563967974.png" alt=" A group of people walk Feb. 6, 2026, through the Statehouse in Topeka, demonstrating opposition to a recently passed bathroom ban. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> A group of people walk Feb. 6, 2026, through the Statehouse in Topeka, demonstrating opposition to a recently passed bathroom ban. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">Sherman Smith</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>LAWRENCE — Attorneys will argue Friday in court over whether a judge should delay enforcement of a state law that invalidates driver’s licenses and birth certificates for those who changed their gender marker and restricts bathroom use based on sex assigned at birth.Two trans men from Lawrence&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/27/trans-men-file-lawsuit-over-kansas-law-that-restricts-bathroom-use-and-invalidates-drivers-licenses/">filed a lawsuit last week</a>&nbsp;in Douglas County District Court to challenge&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb244/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 244</a>, which took effect Feb. 26. The unnamed plaintiffs say the law violates constitutional rights to personal autonomy, privacy, equity, due process and expression, could subject them to harassment and violence, and would jeopardize their mental health and employment.Attorneys with the American Civil Liberties Union and the Philadelphia-based Ballard Spahr law firm, which represent the plaintiffs, appeared by Zoom for a scheduling conference Tuesday in Douglas County District Court with Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach and other attorneys for the state. Journalists from Kansas Reflector and the Kansas City Star and an attorney from the University of Kansas observed the hearing from an otherwise empty courtroom.Douglas County District Judge James McCabria told attorneys they needed to find a time this week to hold oral arguments on a motion by plaintiffs for a temporary restraining order, which would block enforcement of the law. He set the hearing for Friday afternoon.McCabria could rule quickly on the motion. He acknowledged a restraining order would be an “extraordinary remedy” for a law that has “broad application.” He noted the ruling would not be “a determination of final merits” in the case, and that he could continue to “weigh things later.”The plaintiffs in the case are identified in court documents as Daniel Doe and Matthew Moe. During Tuesday’s hearing, the judge questioned Kobach about the use of pseudonyms. Kobach said it wasn’t typical but that he wouldn’t object, “just to make this thing move along.”McCabria, who was appointed to the bench by Gov. Sam Brownback in 2014, said the use of pseudonyms “raises some questions,” and that he was concerned about the public’s right to know. He said he would wait until Friday to see if a news outlet objects to the plaintiffs’ request to proceed unnamed.“I do see a reasonable and articulated reason for the request,” McCabria said.The GOP-led Legislature fast-tracked passage of the law this year while bending rules to avoid public input and silence debate. Every Republican except Emporia Rep. Mark Schreiber voted to pass the law and to override Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto, despite objections from Democrats about the cost to local governments, harm to transgender people, unclear provisions in the law, and constitutional problems.Republicans argued, without evidence, that the bathroom provision of the law was necessary to ensure the safety of women. They ignored the reality that the law now requires trans men to use women’s facilities.The law contains a bounty-style provision that allows individuals who feel “aggrieved” by someone’s bathroom use to sue the individuals for monetary gain. Any public entity that fails to properly police bathrooms could be subject to a $25,000 fine on first offense and $125,000 fines on subsequent offenses.The Kansas Department of Revenue&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/26/trans-kansans-struggle-with-reality-of-legislatures-cruelty-as-drivers-licenses-are-invalidated/">sent a letter to trans people</a>&nbsp;shortly before the law took effect to inform them their driver’s licenses were invalid. However,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thehandbasket.co/p/kansas-republicans-sb-244-trans-drivers-licenses" target="_blank">independent journalist Marisa Kabas</a>&nbsp;reported&nbsp;<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:ejihld4sywvvqwe67cdkn4jq/post/3mfucyhno7s2z" target="_blank">an internal KDOR memo</a>&nbsp;to DMVs says no records have been invalidated.The memo also says the agency sent a letter to 300 Kansans, although the agency has publicly said 1,700 records were affected.Zach Denney, a KDOR spokesman, told Kansas Reflector that while the new law invalidates licenses immediately,&nbsp;agency employees must look at each record to determine why the gender marker was changed, as some could have been changed because of data entry errors. He encouraged individuals to check their status on the KDOR website.“The KDOR driver’s license status check page accurately reflects KDOR’s internal system, and what law enforcement entities will see if they check a license,” he said. “The system is being updated, and as it is, the status check website will reflect changes made within the system.”

Kansas judge orders Friday hearing on whether to tap brakes on anti-trans law

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/mollygibbs/">Molly Gibbs</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley said Monday that President Donald Trump acted within executive powers when he launched an attack with Israel on Iran over the weekend.

Several Democratic senators indicated Monday that they will force a vote on a war powers resolution to bar Trump from taking further military action in the region unless Congress authorizes it. If that vote comes to fruition, Hawley said he will not support it.

“If there’s not a use of ground troops involved, the president has 60 days to conduct operations,” Hawley said.

If the president seeks to add ground troops to the conflict, that would be a different story. To do that, he would need to seek congressional approval, Hawley said. He also noted that he has yet to be briefed by the administration, something he expects to happen Tuesday.

“I hope for a swift conclusion to this in a way that is maximally advantageous for America’s national security (and) that keeps us safe, No. 1,” Hawley said. “No. 2, I want to be briefed … I have no visibility into this at all, and I don’t want to speculate.”

Hawley’s assessment adds to his complicated view of U.S. military action abroad. During Joe Biden’s presidency, Hawley often voiced opposition to increasing the United States’ involvement in foreign conflicts, including giving funding to Ukraine in its struggle against Russia.

More recently, Hawley temporarily broke with his party to vote in favor of a war powers resolution after Trump launched Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela. The war powers resolution would have barred Trump from taking further military action in the region, essentially condemning the operation and checking the president’s actions.

Hawley quickly reversed course and voted against the resolution after he said he received assurances from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that no U.S. troops would be on the ground in Venezuela. In Trump’s so-called Operation Epic Fury, Hawley may not be able to get similar assurances, as the president indicated at one point on Monday that he won’t rule out the use of ground forces.

The U.S. Central Command confirmed Monday that six U.S. service members were killed in Iran’s counter attack on U.S. bases in the region. The U.S.-Israeli strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and is estimated to have killed more than 500 people in the country.

Several Missouri residents are in the region, including groups stuck in the middle of their travels, Hawley said. He urged all Americans in the area to leave the immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768445947287.png" alt=" U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., talks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol on June 28, 2025 (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom)." />
 <figcaption> U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., talks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol on June 28, 2025 (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/mollygibbs/">Molly Gibbs</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley said Monday that President Donald Trump acted within executive powers when he launched an attack with Israel on Iran over the weekend.Several Democratic senators indicated Monday that they will force a vote on a war powers resolution to bar Trump from taking further military action in the region unless Congress authorizes it. If that vote comes to fruition, Hawley said he will not support it.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772307695585.png" alt="File photo Operation Epic Fury -photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo Operation Epic Fury -photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>“If there’s not a use of ground troops involved, the president has 60 days to conduct operations,” Hawley said.If the president seeks to add ground troops to the conflict, that would be a different story. To do that, he would need to seek congressional approval, Hawley said. He also noted that he has yet to be briefed by the administration, something he expects to happen Tuesday.“I hope for a swift conclusion to this in a way that is maximally advantageous for America’s national security (and) that keeps us safe, No. 1,” Hawley said. “No. 2, I want to be briefed … I have no visibility into this at all, and I don’t want to speculate.”Hawley’s assessment adds to his complicated view of U.S. military action abroad. During Joe Biden’s presidency, Hawley often voiced opposition to increasing the United States’ involvement in foreign conflicts, including giving funding to Ukraine in its struggle against Russia.More recently, Hawley temporarily broke with his party to vote in favor of a war powers resolution after Trump launched Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela. The war powers resolution would have barred Trump from taking further military action in the region, essentially condemning the operation and checking the president’s actions.Hawley quickly reversed course and voted against the resolution after he said he received assurances from Secretary of State Marco Rubio that no U.S. troops would be on the ground in Venezuela. In Trump’s so-called Operation Epic Fury, Hawley may not be able to get similar assurances, as the president indicated at one point on Monday that he won’t rule out the use of ground forces.The U.S. Central Command confirmed Monday that six U.S. service members were killed in Iran’s counter attack on U.S. bases in the region. The U.S.-Israeli strikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and is estimated to have killed more than 500 people in the country.Several Missouri residents are in the region, including groups stuck in the middle of their travels, Hawley said. He urged all Americans in the area to leave the immediately.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/nation_world/trump-administration-is-in-compliance-with-war-power-statute-hawley-says/article_0f671470-571b-4a4e-a9f9-77df3ec70a6e.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;