&nbsp;HUTCHINSON— A Kansas man was bound over for trial&nbsp; Thursday on charges of drug smuggling while an employee at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

Zachary Wood, 22, Newton, also saw two additional charges filed against him in an amended complaint. Wood faces single counts of possession of marijuana with intent to sell and possession of codeine with intent to sell along with the original charges of conspiracy, using a communication device to distribute drugs, drug distribution and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

Wood is accused of using three women to help smuggle K2 into the prison over a period of two months.

The three women arrested in the case, Ester Davis, Denisha Starns and Stephanie Thindiu all waived their right to a preliminary hearing and were bound over for trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600357864536.jpeg" alt="Wood photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Wood photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;HUTCHINSON— A Kansas man was bound over for trial&nbsp; Thursday on charges of drug smuggling while an employee at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility.Zachary Wood, 22, Newton, also saw two additional charges filed against him in an amended complaint. Wood faces single counts of possession of marijuana with intent to sell and possession of codeine with intent to sell along with the original charges of conspiracy, using a communication device to distribute drugs, drug distribution and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.Wood is accused of using three women to help smuggle K2 into the prison over a period of two months.The three women arrested in the case, Ester Davis, Denisha Starns and Stephanie Thindiu all waived their right to a preliminary hearing and were bound over for trial.

Man will stand trial for smuggling K2 into Kan. prison

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is on track to pay out an extra $300-a-week federal unemployment benefit as part of a coronavirus rescue aid package enacted late last month, a top Department of Labor official said.

Ryan Wright, who stepped down as acting secretary of the agency in December but remains a top staffer, said the department was in the process of testing the requisite system. Roughly two dozen states have begun paying out the extra benefit, but Wright noted that neighboring states also weren’t up and running yet, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/state/2021/01/14/kansas-on-target-resume-expanded-unemployment-payments/4161319001/" target="_blank">reports</a>.

He didn’t commit to a firm time frame but said “we are talking days and weeks, not months” and insisted that the state is “not behind.”

Originally authorized under the CARES Act, the program was continued under the recently approved federal stimulus package, with claimants able to receive the expanded benefits for an additional 11 weeks.

KDOL has come under fire from lawmakers and frustrated Kansans alike after a historic surge in unemployment amid the COVID-19 pandemic taxed the state’s aging system, leading to widespread crashes and outages.

When Wright took over as acting secretary in July, there was a backlog of over 25,000 claimants awaiting benefits. Residents complained of an inability to get through to talk to a call center employee about their situation and some still say they haven’t been able to access their benefits.

But Wright claimed victory in tackling the backlog of regular unemployment claims, which was down to a mere 188 applicants who would be taken care of soon.

“We are approaching the point where if you have a valid claim, you will be paid,” he said.

A separate backlog of claimants in a different program targeted at those who are self-employed or freelancers had been halved in the last six months, Wright said.

The issue was that large parts of the system haven’t been upgraded since the 1970s and a refresh in the 2000s is now out of date.

Kelly included $37.5 million in her budget proposal, announced Wednesday, for some IT upgrades, although a more comprehensive effort would cost far more. The hope was to break the effort into phases, but significant work was needed, Wright said.

“It will be a complete overhaul of the system at this point,” he said.

Meanwhile, Shawnee County commissioners voted Thursday to extend a health order that limited gatherings to 10 people or fewer after the county saw surging COVID-19 numbers. Interim health officer Dennis Cooley recommended the health order be extended for a few weeks to allow the health department to review COVID-19 numbers. He said the county is in the midst of a post-holiday spike.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610733397386.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is on track to pay out an extra $300-a-week federal unemployment benefit as part of a coronavirus rescue aid package enacted late last month, a top Department of Labor official said.Ryan Wright, who stepped down as acting secretary of the agency in December but remains a top staffer, said the department was in the process of testing the requisite system. Roughly two dozen states have begun paying out the extra benefit, but Wright noted that neighboring states also weren’t up and running yet, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/state/2021/01/14/kansas-on-target-resume-expanded-unemployment-payments/4161319001/" target="_blank">reports</a>.He didn’t commit to a firm time frame but said “we are talking days and weeks, not months” and insisted that the state is “not behind.”Originally authorized under the CARES Act, the program was continued under the recently approved federal stimulus package, with claimants able to receive the expanded benefits for an additional 11 weeks.KDOL has come under fire from lawmakers and frustrated Kansans alike after a historic surge in unemployment amid the COVID-19 pandemic taxed the state’s aging system, leading to widespread crashes and outages.When Wright took over as acting secretary in July, there was a backlog of over 25,000 claimants awaiting benefits. Residents complained of an inability to get through to talk to a call center employee about their situation and some still say they haven’t been able to access their benefits.But Wright claimed victory in tackling the backlog of regular unemployment claims, which was down to a mere 188 applicants who would be taken care of soon.“We are approaching the point where if you have a valid claim, you will be paid,” he said.A separate backlog of claimants in a different program targeted at those who are self-employed or freelancers had been halved in the last six months, Wright said.The issue was that large parts of the system haven’t been upgraded since the 1970s and a refresh in the 2000s is now out of date.Kelly included $37.5 million in her budget proposal, announced Wednesday, for some IT upgrades, although a more comprehensive effort would cost far more. The hope was to break the effort into phases, but significant work was needed, Wright said.“It will be a complete overhaul of the system at this point,” he said.Meanwhile, Shawnee County commissioners voted Thursday to extend a health order that limited gatherings to 10 people or fewer after the county saw surging COVID-19 numbers. Interim health officer Dennis Cooley recommended the health order be extended for a few weeks to allow the health department to review COVID-19 numbers. He said the county is in the midst of a post-holiday spike.

Kansas on track to pay out extra unemployment benefit

KANSAS CITY (AP) —As vaccinations continue across the U.S., some companies are offering financial incentives to encourage their workers to get the shots.

Instacart Inc., the grocery delivery service, announced Thursday that it would provide a $25 stipend for workers who get the COVID-19 vaccine. It joins others, including Trader Joe’s and Dollar General, which plan to pay workers extra if they get vaccinated.

“Our goal with the introduction of our new vaccine support stipend is to ensure that, when the time comes, Instacart shoppers don’t have to choose between earning income as an essential service provider or getting vaccinated,” Instacart CEO Apoorva Mehta said in a statement.

San Francisco-based Instacart has nearly doubled its mostly gig workforce to about 500,000 to meet a surge in demand for online grocery shopping since the pandemic erupted in the U.S. last spring.

Grocery chain Trader Joe’s, which has more than 50,000 employees, said Thursday it will give employees two hours of pay per dose for getting the vaccine. The Monrovia, California-based company said it will also shift around schedules to make sure employees have time to get vaccinated.

Dollar General said Wednesday it will give employees the equivalent of four hours of pay if they get the vaccine. The Goodlettsville, Tennessee-based retailer said it employs 157,000 people.

A vaccine advisory panel at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control voted late last month on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-over75-essential-145d1bae81aaa05df26cfed0d24f0e10">recommendations for vaccine distribution</a>. The panel said grocery workers — which would include Instacart and Dollar General’s employees — should be in the second group to receive shots after health care workers and nursing home residents.

It is up to each state to decide how and when to adopt the CDC’s recommendations. Some states have already opened eligibility to the second group, which also includes firefighters, police, teachers, corrections workers, postal employees and people 75 and older. There are around 50 million people in that group.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/can-employers-covid-19-vaccine-mandatory-ba22c99f01f24ea3be7631ff751f0d82">Companies can mandate</a>&nbsp;that workers get COVID-19 vaccines as a requirement for employment, although they must make accommodations for medical or religious reasons, according to guidance from the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

However, most companies are reluctant to impose such mandates, said Sharon Perley Masling, a partner at the law firm Morgan Lewis who has been advising clients on workplace issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency nature of the vaccine’s FDA approval makes it impractical for many companies to require it, given that the shots are not available to most of the population, she said.

Still, Masling said the companies she works with are taking various steps to strongly encourage their workers to get vaccinated, including internal public relations campaigns showing top executives who are eligible getting the shots. Other incentives include free child care, paid time off and freebies like pizza delivery and other gifts, she said.

“It’s good for employees, it’s good for their communities and its good for ensuring the continuation of business operations,” Masling said.

The push to vaccinate comes amid signs that some people —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-health-workers-676e03a99badfd5ce3a6cfafe383f6af">even health care workers</a>&nbsp;— are reluctant to get the shots, contributing to a slower than hoped-for rollout of the mass vacation effort in the U.S. Masling said many of companies are still trying to figure out how their employees feel about the taking the shots, with some sending out internal surveys.

In a survey last month by the Society for Human Resource Management, nearly two-thirds of U.S. workers said they were likely to get the vaccine when it becomes available. Still, 36% said they were not likely to get vaccinated, citing as their main reason concern about side effects. SHRM surveyed workers from 529 U.S. households using the AmeriSpeak Omnibus survey, a probability-based panel developed by NORC at the University of Chicago.

Scientists say the vaccines have been rigorously tested on tens of thousands and vetted by independent experts, and there have been no signs of widespread severe side effects from the shots.

Not every company is offering incentives. Delivery app DoorDash, another big platform for gig workers, said it has asked the CDC and governors to prioritize delivery workers in vaccine distribution. But it doesn’t plan perks for workers who get vaccinated.

Target Corp. also plans no incentives, but said it will make the vaccine free and accessible to its 350,000 employees. Target said 1,700 of its stores have a CVS pharmacy on site that will offer the vaccine to staff when it’s available.

Albertsons, a grocery chain with 2,250 U.S. stores and 300,000 employees, also isn’t doling out financial incentives. Like DoorDash, it’s asking state and local authorities to make sure its workers get priority for the vaccine.

A separate SHRM survey last month found that while about two-thirds of U.S. employers planned to encourage employees to get vaccinated, only 3% have decided to require it for at least some workers. That could change, since 55% of employers said they were unsure if they would eventually require it, according to survey of 955 members of SHRM, an organization of about 300,000 human resource professionals.

Many large companies have faced criticism over how they have treated their employees throughout the pandemic, from shoddy sick leave policies to poor working conditions. Companies from meatpacking plants to Amazon have grappled with worker absences and outbreaks that have forced temporary shutdowns of their factories and warehouses. There is also a looming debate in Congress over whether employers should be exempt from legal liabilities related to coronavirus exposure as more recall their employees to offices and other work sites.

Those challenges provide a strong incentive for companies to get their workers vaccinated, said Laura Boudreau, an economics professor at Columbia Business School who specializes in labor rights.

“A lot of them have had to defend their reputations in terms of how they are treating their employees throughout the pandemic,” Boudreau said.

Instacart is among several companies that have lobbied for their workers to be prioritized for vaccines. The company has faced criticism and some worker unrest over allegations that it not done enough to protect its gig workers, who don’t get health insurance through the company or guaranteed paid sick leave.

The company says it has distributed 620,000 free safety kits to its workers, including face masks and hand sanitizers. It introduced a new policy in March to provide 14 days of paid leave for gig workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19 or have been ordered to quarantine because of potential exposure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602590971875.png" alt="Photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Johnson &amp; Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) —As vaccinations continue across the U.S., some companies are offering financial incentives to encourage their workers to get the shots.Instacart Inc., the grocery delivery service, announced Thursday that it would provide a $25 stipend for workers who get the COVID-19 vaccine. It joins others, including Trader Joe’s and Dollar General, which plan to pay workers extra if they get vaccinated.“Our goal with the introduction of our new vaccine support stipend is to ensure that, when the time comes, Instacart shoppers don’t have to choose between earning income as an essential service provider or getting vaccinated,” Instacart CEO Apoorva Mehta said in a statement.San Francisco-based Instacart has nearly doubled its mostly gig workforce to about 500,000 to meet a surge in demand for online grocery shopping since the pandemic erupted in the U.S. last spring.Grocery chain Trader Joe’s, which has more than 50,000 employees, said Thursday it will give employees two hours of pay per dose for getting the vaccine. The Monrovia, California-based company said it will also shift around schedules to make sure employees have time to get vaccinated.Dollar General said Wednesday it will give employees the equivalent of four hours of pay if they get the vaccine. The Goodlettsville, Tennessee-based retailer said it employs 157,000 people.A vaccine advisory panel at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control voted late last month on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-over75-essential-145d1bae81aaa05df26cfed0d24f0e10">recommendations for vaccine distribution</a>. The panel said grocery workers — which would include Instacart and Dollar General’s employees — should be in the second group to receive shots after health care workers and nursing home residents.It is up to each state to decide how and when to adopt the CDC’s recommendations. Some states have already opened eligibility to the second group, which also includes firefighters, police, teachers, corrections workers, postal employees and people 75 and older. There are around 50 million people in that group.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/can-employers-covid-19-vaccine-mandatory-ba22c99f01f24ea3be7631ff751f0d82">Companies can mandate</a>&nbsp;that workers get COVID-19 vaccines as a requirement for employment, although they must make accommodations for medical or religious reasons, according to guidance from the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.However, most companies are reluctant to impose such mandates, said Sharon Perley Masling, a partner at the law firm Morgan Lewis who has been advising clients on workplace issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency nature of the vaccine’s FDA approval makes it impractical for many companies to require it, given that the shots are not available to most of the population, she said.Still, Masling said the companies she works with are taking various steps to strongly encourage their workers to get vaccinated, including internal public relations campaigns showing top executives who are eligible getting the shots. Other incentives include free child care, paid time off and freebies like pizza delivery and other gifts, she said.“It’s good for employees, it’s good for their communities and its good for ensuring the continuation of business operations,” Masling said.The push to vaccinate comes amid signs that some people —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-vaccine-health-workers-676e03a99badfd5ce3a6cfafe383f6af">even health care workers</a>&nbsp;— are reluctant to get the shots, contributing to a slower than hoped-for rollout of the mass vacation effort in the U.S. Masling said many of companies are still trying to figure out how their employees feel about the taking the shots, with some sending out internal surveys.In a survey last month by the Society for Human Resource Management, nearly two-thirds of U.S. workers said they were likely to get the vaccine when it becomes available. Still, 36% said they were not likely to get vaccinated, citing as their main reason concern about side effects. SHRM surveyed workers from 529 U.S. households using the AmeriSpeak Omnibus survey, a probability-based panel developed by NORC at the University of Chicago.Scientists say the vaccines have been rigorously tested on tens of thousands and vetted by independent experts, and there have been no signs of widespread severe side effects from the shots.Not every company is offering incentives. Delivery app DoorDash, another big platform for gig workers, said it has asked the CDC and governors to prioritize delivery workers in vaccine distribution. But it doesn’t plan perks for workers who get vaccinated.Target Corp. also plans no incentives, but said it will make the vaccine free and accessible to its 350,000 employees. Target said 1,700 of its stores have a CVS pharmacy on site that will offer the vaccine to staff when it’s available.Albertsons, a grocery chain with 2,250 U.S. stores and 300,000 employees, also isn’t doling out financial incentives. Like DoorDash, it’s asking state and local authorities to make sure its workers get priority for the vaccine.A separate SHRM survey last month found that while about two-thirds of U.S. employers planned to encourage employees to get vaccinated, only 3% have decided to require it for at least some workers. That could change, since 55% of employers said they were unsure if they would eventually require it, according to survey of 955 members of SHRM, an organization of about 300,000 human resource professionals.Many large companies have faced criticism over how they have treated their employees throughout the pandemic, from shoddy sick leave policies to poor working conditions. Companies from meatpacking plants to Amazon have grappled with worker absences and outbreaks that have forced temporary shutdowns of their factories and warehouses. There is also a looming debate in Congress over whether employers should be exempt from legal liabilities related to coronavirus exposure as more recall their employees to offices and other work sites.Those challenges provide a strong incentive for companies to get their workers vaccinated, said Laura Boudreau, an economics professor at Columbia Business School who specializes in labor rights.“A lot of them have had to defend their reputations in terms of how they are treating their employees throughout the pandemic,” Boudreau said.Instacart is among several companies that have lobbied for their workers to be prioritized for vaccines. The company has faced criticism and some worker unrest over allegations that it not done enough to protect its gig workers, who don’t get health insurance through the company or guaranteed paid sick leave.The company says it has distributed 620,000 free safety kits to its workers, including face masks and hand sanitizers. It introduced a new policy in March to provide 14 days of paid leave for gig workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19 or have been ordered to quarantine because of potential exposure.

Retailers push incentives to get workers vaccinated

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a murder and are asking the public for help to locate 40-year-old Moses Joel Guerrero.

Just after 3:00 a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the area of 200 N. 9th Street in Garden City to assist Finney County EMS with an unresponsive man suffering from a head injury, according to Sgt. Lana Urteaga.

Upon arrival, officers found the man identified as Jose Adelaydo Gonzalez, 39, was not breathing and in addition to the head injury had been shot.&nbsp;

EMS transported Gonzalez to St. Catherine Hospital where he died, according to Urteaga.

The preliminary investigation determined Gonzalez had a small gathering at his residence. During the gathering, he was involved in a physical altercation and was shot. The alleged assailant later identified as Guerrero fled before officers arrived.&nbsp;

Guerrero is described as white, 5-foot-9 inches tall, weights 220 pounds and has black hair and brown eyes. He has a scars on the back of his head, on his chest, both arms and his forehead.

His last known address was in the 1800 Block of West Mary in Garden City. Police have a warrant for his arrest for first-degree murder.&nbsp; He is considered armed and dangerous.&nbsp;

Guerrero has previous convictions for aggravated burglary, aggravated assault and aggravated battery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man's death in southwest Kansas.

EMS transported Gonzalez&nbsp; to St. Catherine Hospital where he died, according to Urteaga.

The preliminary investigation determined Gonzalez had a small gathering at his residence. During the gathering, he was involved in a physical altercation and was shot. The unknown assailant fled before officers arrived.&nbsp;

Police are requesting assistance from the community to locate a suspect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610661801557.png" alt="Guerrero-photo Garden City Police" />
 <figcaption>Guerrero-photo Garden City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a murder and are asking the public for help to locate 40-year-old Moses Joel Guerrero.Just after 3:00 a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the area of 200 N. 9th Street in Garden City to assist Finney County EMS with an unresponsive man suffering from a head injury, according to Sgt. Lana Urteaga.Upon arrival, officers found the man identified as Jose Adelaydo Gonzalez, 39, was not breathing and in addition to the head injury had been shot.&nbsp;EMS transported Gonzalez to St. Catherine Hospital where he died, according to Urteaga.The preliminary investigation determined Gonzalez had a small gathering at his residence. During the gathering, he was involved in a physical altercation and was shot. The alleged assailant later identified as Guerrero fled before officers arrived.&nbsp;Guerrero is described as white, 5-foot-9 inches tall, weights 220 pounds and has black hair and brown eyes. He has a scars on the back of his head, on his chest, both arms and his forehead.His last known address was in the 1800 Block of West Mary in Garden City. Police have a warrant for his arrest for first-degree murder.&nbsp; He is considered armed and dangerous.&nbsp;Guerrero has previous convictions for aggravated burglary, aggravated assault and aggravated battery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.---------FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man's death in southwest Kansas.Just after 3:00 a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the area of 200 N. 9th Street in Garden City to assist Finney County EMS with an unresponsive man suffering from a head injury, according to Sgt. Lana Urteaga.Upon arrival, officers found the man identified as Jose Adelaydo Gonzalez, 39, was not breathing and in addition to the head injury had been shot.&nbsp;EMS transported Gonzalez&nbsp; to St. Catherine Hospital where he died, according to Urteaga.The preliminary investigation determined Gonzalez had a small gathering at his residence. During the gathering, he was involved in a physical altercation and was shot. The unknown assailant fled before officers arrived.&nbsp;Police are requesting assistance from the community to locate a suspect.

Police search for suspect in fatal SW Kan. party shooting

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly is restricting access to the Kansas Statehouse due to the possibility of an armed protest, telling state lawmakers Thursday that an event is planned for Sunday with “other potential gatherings” next week.

The Democratic governor’s chief of staff, Will Lawrence, sent a memo Thursday to the Republican-controlled Legislature’s top Republican and Democratic leaders announcing that access to the building will be restricted from Friday through Jan. 22. The memo said there will be an increased law enforcement presence at the Statehouse.

The memo did not say what groups were planning protests or other events.

The security preparations came in response to last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/14c73ee280c256ab4ec193ac0f49ad54">insurrection in Washington, D.C.,&nbsp;</a>in which a violent mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol and interrupted Congress’ certification of his election loss. The FBI has since warned about the potential for armed protests by Trump loyalists in Washington and at state capitols ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration Wednesday.

“In Kansas, we have information that there is an event planned for 12:00 noon on January 17, 2021,” Lawrence’s memo said. “There are also other potential gatherings scheduled for next week including Wednesday, January 20, 2021.”

Kelly and the legislative leaders held a private, half-hour virtual security briefing Thursday morning with the Kansas Highway Patrol and the state Adjutant General’s Department. Legislators who participated have revealed little about what they heard because it involved security matters.

Lawrence’s memo said access to the Statehouse would be limited to “only those having business before the Legislature and the governor’s office.” People entering the building will be vetted and will need to provide an email indicating they have a meeting or are providing testimony before a legislative committee.

The memo said virtual meetings are “strongly encouraged.” The Legislature spent $3 million on technology upgrades in recent weeks to allow live audio and video streaming of meetings and remote participation, though lawmakers have complained that the technology has proven balky at times.

The memo said the Statehouse garage will be closed, allowing access only with a special security pass. People with a pass will be allowed to come into the building through one entrance.

“Law enforcement presence has been and will continue to be increased throughout this time,” the memo said.

House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., an Olathe Republican, said in an email to colleagues that officers will be stationed at each door on the first and second floors of the Statehouse.

Some lawmakers have questioned whether problems are likely. Trump carried the state by a wide margin in last year’s election and a peaceful protest of about 200 people took place at the Statehouse last week on the same day Washington saw mob violence.

Kelly told reporters Wednesday that the state would “keep a close eye on” any potential armed protest and would step up security “as necessary.” But she declined to discuss details.

State Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat, said she will probably work remotely next week. Before the memo was issued, she had expressed frustration with the lack of information about security plans, saying she hadn’t noticed any security enhancements.

After reading the memo, she said: “I feel better. Still concerned though, because I know there are threats out there that are unspecified.”

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said before the memo became public that he was comfortable if officials wanted an increased security presence at the Statehouse.

“The nut jobs, if you will, are generally deterred by just the presence,” Masterson said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610659131053.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly is restricting access to the Kansas Statehouse due to the possibility of an armed protest, telling state lawmakers Thursday that an event is planned for Sunday with “other potential gatherings” next week.The Democratic governor’s chief of staff, Will Lawrence, sent a memo Thursday to the Republican-controlled Legislature’s top Republican and Democratic leaders announcing that access to the building will be restricted from Friday through Jan. 22. The memo said there will be an increased law enforcement presence at the Statehouse.The memo did not say what groups were planning protests or other events.The security preparations came in response to last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/14c73ee280c256ab4ec193ac0f49ad54">insurrection in Washington, D.C.,&nbsp;</a>in which a violent mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol and interrupted Congress’ certification of his election loss. The FBI has since warned about the potential for armed protests by Trump loyalists in Washington and at state capitols ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration Wednesday.“In Kansas, we have information that there is an event planned for 12:00 noon on January 17, 2021,” Lawrence’s memo said. “There are also other potential gatherings scheduled for next week including Wednesday, January 20, 2021.”Kelly and the legislative leaders held a private, half-hour virtual security briefing Thursday morning with the Kansas Highway Patrol and the state Adjutant General’s Department. Legislators who participated have revealed little about what they heard because it involved security matters.Lawrence’s memo said access to the Statehouse would be limited to “only those having business before the Legislature and the governor’s office.” People entering the building will be vetted and will need to provide an email indicating they have a meeting or are providing testimony before a legislative committee.The memo said virtual meetings are “strongly encouraged.” The Legislature spent $3 million on technology upgrades in recent weeks to allow live audio and video streaming of meetings and remote participation, though lawmakers have complained that the technology has proven balky at times.The memo said the Statehouse garage will be closed, allowing access only with a special security pass. People with a pass will be allowed to come into the building through one entrance.“Law enforcement presence has been and will continue to be increased throughout this time,” the memo said.House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., an Olathe Republican, said in an email to colleagues that officers will be stationed at each door on the first and second floors of the Statehouse.Some lawmakers have questioned whether problems are likely. Trump carried the state by a wide margin in last year’s election and a peaceful protest of about 200 people took place at the Statehouse last week on the same day Washington saw mob violence.Kelly told reporters Wednesday that the state would “keep a close eye on” any potential armed protest and would step up security “as necessary.” But she declined to discuss details.State Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat, said she will probably work remotely next week. Before the memo was issued, she had expressed frustration with the lack of information about security plans, saying she hadn’t noticed any security enhancements.After reading the memo, she said: “I feel better. Still concerned though, because I know there are threats out there that are unspecified.”Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, said before the memo became public that he was comfortable if officials wanted an increased security presence at the Statehouse.“The nut jobs, if you will, are generally deterred by just the presence,” Masterson said.___

Governor limits Kan. Statehouse access, expects protests

DUNDY COUNTY, NE —Emergency management officials gave&nbsp; the all clear for residents to return home just after 7:15 a.m. Thursday and lifted the evacuation recommendations for Benkelman, according to the Dundy County Sheriff's Department.

A large fire on the northwestern side of Benkelman prompted an evacuation order early Thursday morning. The community of one thousand is located 50 miles north of Goodland.

DUNDY COUNTY, NE—Authorities are fighting a large fire on the northwestern side of Benkelman, Nebraska. The community of one thousand is located 50 miles north of Goodland.

 Mutual aid has been put into effect and several agencies have responded to control the fire, according to the Dundy County Sheriff's Department early Friday.

 Residences near the western side of Benkelman are being asked to safely gather important belongings and evacuate to a safe location west of Benkelman.

The sheriff's department asked drivers to stay off the highway at the northern intersection of Highway 34/61.&nbsp; Emergency vehicles are heavily using these roadways, and portions of the fire have centered around that area.

The Legion hall in Haigler is opening as a safe location for evacuees, according to the sheriff's department.

DUNDY COUNTY, NE —Emergency management officials gave&nbsp; the all clear for residents to return home just after 7:15 a.m. Thursday and lifted the evacuation recommendations for Benkelman, according to the Dundy County Sheriff's Department.A large fire on the northwestern side of Benkelman prompted an evacuation order early Thursday morning. The community of one thousand is located 50 miles north of Goodland.---------DUNDY COUNTY, NE—Authorities are fighting a large fire on the northwestern side of Benkelman, Nebraska. The community of one thousand is located 50 miles north of Goodland. Mutual aid has been put into effect and several agencies have responded to control the fire, according to the Dundy County Sheriff's Department early Friday. Residences near the western side of Benkelman are being asked to safely gather important belongings and evacuate to a safe location west of Benkelman.The sheriff's department asked drivers to stay off the highway at the northern intersection of Highway 34/61.&nbsp; Emergency vehicles are heavily using these roadways, and portions of the fire have centered around that area.The Legion hall in Haigler is opening as a safe location for evacuees, according to the sheriff's department.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNWSGoodland%2Fposts%2F3674822105935548&width=500&show_text=true&height=485&appId" width="500" height="485" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Update: Nebraska town evacuated due to large wildfire

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — President-elect Joe Biden has unveiled a $1.9 trillion coronavirus plan to end “a crisis of deep human suffering” by speeding up vaccines and pumping out financial help to those struggling with the pandemic’s prolonged economic fallout.

Called the “American Rescue Plan,” the legislative proposal would meet Biden’s goal of administering 100 million vaccines by the 100th day of his administration, and advance his objective of reopening most schools by the spring. On a parallel track, it delivers another round of aid to stabilize the economy while the public health effort seeks the upper hand on the pandemic.

“We not only have an economic imperative to act now — I believe we have a moral obligation,” Biden said in a nationwide address Thursday. At the same time, he acknowledged that his plan “does not come cheaply.”

Biden proposed $1,400 checks for most Americans, which on top of $600 provided in the most recent COVID-19 bill would bring the total to the $2,000 that Biden has called for. It would also extend a temporary boost in unemployment benefits and a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures through September.

And it shoehorns in long-term Democratic policy aims such as increasing the minimum wage to $15 an hour, expanding paid leave for workers, and increasing tax credits for families with children. The last item would make it easier for women to go back to work, which in turn would help the economy recover.

The political outlook for the legislation remained unclear. In a joint statement, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer praised Biden for including liberal priorities, saying they would move quickly to pass it after Biden takes office next Wednesday. But Democrats have narrow margins in both chambers of Congress, and Republicans will push back on issues that range from increasing the minimum wage to providing more money for states, while demanding inclusion of their priorities, such as liability protection for businesses.

“Remember that a bipartisan $900 billion #COVID19 relief bill became law just 18 days ago,” tweeted Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas. But Biden says that was only a down payment, and he promised more major legislation next month, focused on rebuilding the economy.

“The crisis of deep human suffering is in plain sight, and there’s not time to waste,” Biden said. “We have to act and we have to act now.”

Still, he sought to manage expectations. “We’re better equipped to do this than any nation in the world,” he said. “But even with all these small steps, it’s going to take time.”

His relief bill would be paid for with borrowed money, adding to trillions in debt the government has already incurred to confront the pandemic. Aides said Biden will make the case that the additional spending and borrowing is necessary to prevent the economy from sliding into an even deeper hole. Interest rates are low, making debt more manageable.

Biden has long held that economic recovery is inextricably linked with controlling the coronavirus.

That squares with the judgment of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the most powerful business lobbying group and traditionally an adversary of Democrats. “We must defeat COVID before we can restore our economy and that requires turbocharging our vaccination efforts,” the Chamber said in a statement Thursday night that welcomed Biden’s plan but stopped short of endorsing it.

The plan comes as a divided nation is in the grip of the pandemic’s most dangerous wave yet. So far, more than 385,000 people have died of COVID-19 in the U.S. And government numbers out Thursday reported a jump in weekly unemployment claims, to 965,000, a sign that rising infections are forcing businesses to cut back and lay off workers.

Under Biden’s multipronged strategy, about $400 billion would go directly to combating the pandemic, while the rest is focused on economic relief and aid to states and localities.

About $20 billion would be allocated for a more disciplined focus on vaccination, on top of some $8 billion already approved by Congress. Biden has called for setting up mass vaccination centers and sending mobile units to hard-to-reach areas.

With the backing of Congress and the expertise of private and government scientists, the Trump administration delivered two highly effective vaccines and more are on the way. Yet a month after the first shots were given, the nation’s vaccination campaign is off to a slow start with about 11 million people getting the first of two shots, although more than 30 million doses have been delivered.

Biden called the vaccine rollout “a dismal failure so far” and said he would provide more details about his vaccination campaign on Friday.

The plan also provides $50 billion to expand testing, which is seen as key to reopening most schools by the end of the new administration’s first 100 days. About $130 billion would be allocated to help schools reopen without risking further contagion.

The plan would fund the hiring of 100,000 public health workers, to focus on encouraging people to get vaccinated and on tracing the contacts of those infected with the coronavirus.

There’s also a proposal to boost investment in genetic sequencing, to help track new virus strains including the more contagious variants identified in the United Kingdom and South Africa.

Throughout the plan, there’s a focus on ensuring that minority communities that have borne the brunt of the pandemic are not shortchanged on vaccines and treatments, aides said.

With the new proposals comes a call to redouble efforts on the basics.

Biden is asking Americans to override their sense of pandemic fatigue and recommit to wearing masks, practicing social distancing and avoiding indoor gatherings, particularly larger ones. It’s still the surest way to slow the COVID-19 wave, with more than 4,400 deaths reported just on Tuesday.

Biden’s biggest challenge will be to “win the hearts and minds of the American people to follow his lead,” said Dr. Leana Wen, a public health expert and emergency physician.

The pace of vaccination in the U.S. is approaching 1 million shots a day, but 1.8 million a day would be needed to reach widespread or “herd” immunity by the summer, according to a recent estimate by the American Hospital Association. Wen says the pace should be even higher — closer to 3 million a day.

Biden believes the key to speeding that up lies not only in delivering more vaccine but also in working closely with states and local communities to get shots into the arms of more people. The Trump administration provided the vaccine to states and set guidelines for who should get priority for shots, but largely left it up to state and local officials to organize their vaccination campaigns.

It’s still unclear how the new administration will address the issue of vaccine hesitancy, the doubts and suspicions that keep many people from getting a shot. Polls show it’s particularly a problem among Black Americans.

“We will have to move heaven and earth to get more people vaccinated,” Biden said.

Next Wednesday, when Biden is sworn in as president, marks the anniversary of the&nbsp;<a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/26/6/20-0516_article" target="_blank">first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United States</a>.

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — President-elect Joe Biden has unveiled a $1.9 trillion coronavirus plan to end “a crisis of deep human suffering” by speeding up vaccines and pumping out financial help to those struggling with the pandemic’s prolonged economic fallout.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fjoebiden%2Fvideos%2F1685564078285976%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Called the “American Rescue Plan,” the legislative proposal would meet Biden’s goal of administering 100 million vaccines by the 100th day of his administration, and advance his objective of reopening most schools by the spring. On a parallel track, it delivers another round of aid to stabilize the economy while the public health effort seeks the upper hand on the pandemic.“We not only have an economic imperative to act now — I believe we have a moral obligation,” Biden said in a nationwide address Thursday. At the same time, he acknowledged that his plan “does not come cheaply.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610708703627.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Biden proposed $1,400 checks for most Americans, which on top of $600 provided in the most recent COVID-19 bill would bring the total to the $2,000 that Biden has called for. It would also extend a temporary boost in unemployment benefits and a moratorium on evictions and foreclosures through September.And it shoehorns in long-term Democratic policy aims such as increasing the minimum wage to $15 an hour, expanding paid leave for workers, and increasing tax credits for families with children. The last item would make it easier for women to go back to work, which in turn would help the economy recover.The political outlook for the legislation remained unclear. In a joint statement, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer praised Biden for including liberal priorities, saying they would move quickly to pass it after Biden takes office next Wednesday. But Democrats have narrow margins in both chambers of Congress, and Republicans will push back on issues that range from increasing the minimum wage to providing more money for states, while demanding inclusion of their priorities, such as liability protection for businesses.“Remember that a bipartisan $900 billion #COVID19 relief bill became law just 18 days ago,” tweeted Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas. But Biden says that was only a down payment, and he promised more major legislation next month, focused on rebuilding the economy.“The crisis of deep human suffering is in plain sight, and there’s not time to waste,” Biden said. “We have to act and we have to act now.”Still, he sought to manage expectations. “We’re better equipped to do this than any nation in the world,” he said. “But even with all these small steps, it’s going to take time.”His relief bill would be paid for with borrowed money, adding to trillions in debt the government has already incurred to confront the pandemic. Aides said Biden will make the case that the additional spending and borrowing is necessary to prevent the economy from sliding into an even deeper hole. Interest rates are low, making debt more manageable.Biden has long held that economic recovery is inextricably linked with controlling the coronavirus.That squares with the judgment of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the most powerful business lobbying group and traditionally an adversary of Democrats. “We must defeat COVID before we can restore our economy and that requires turbocharging our vaccination efforts,” the Chamber said in a statement Thursday night that welcomed Biden’s plan but stopped short of endorsing it.The plan comes as a divided nation is in the grip of the pandemic’s most dangerous wave yet. So far, more than 385,000 people have died of COVID-19 in the U.S. And government numbers out Thursday reported a jump in weekly unemployment claims, to 965,000, a sign that rising infections are forcing businesses to cut back and lay off workers.Under Biden’s multipronged strategy, about $400 billion would go directly to combating the pandemic, while the rest is focused on economic relief and aid to states and localities.About $20 billion would be allocated for a more disciplined focus on vaccination, on top of some $8 billion already approved by Congress. Biden has called for setting up mass vaccination centers and sending mobile units to hard-to-reach areas.With the backing of Congress and the expertise of private and government scientists, the Trump administration delivered two highly effective vaccines and more are on the way. Yet a month after the first shots were given, the nation’s vaccination campaign is off to a slow start with about 11 million people getting the first of two shots, although more than 30 million doses have been delivered.Biden called the vaccine rollout “a dismal failure so far” and said he would provide more details about his vaccination campaign on Friday.The plan also provides $50 billion to expand testing, which is seen as key to reopening most schools by the end of the new administration’s first 100 days. About $130 billion would be allocated to help schools reopen without risking further contagion.The plan would fund the hiring of 100,000 public health workers, to focus on encouraging people to get vaccinated and on tracing the contacts of those infected with the coronavirus.There’s also a proposal to boost investment in genetic sequencing, to help track new virus strains including the more contagious variants identified in the United Kingdom and South Africa.Throughout the plan, there’s a focus on ensuring that minority communities that have borne the brunt of the pandemic are not shortchanged on vaccines and treatments, aides said.With the new proposals comes a call to redouble efforts on the basics.Biden is asking Americans to override their sense of pandemic fatigue and recommit to wearing masks, practicing social distancing and avoiding indoor gatherings, particularly larger ones. It’s still the surest way to slow the COVID-19 wave, with more than 4,400 deaths reported just on Tuesday.Biden’s biggest challenge will be to “win the hearts and minds of the American people to follow his lead,” said Dr. Leana Wen, a public health expert and emergency physician.The pace of vaccination in the U.S. is approaching 1 million shots a day, but 1.8 million a day would be needed to reach widespread or “herd” immunity by the summer, according to a recent estimate by the American Hospital Association. Wen says the pace should be even higher — closer to 3 million a day.Biden believes the key to speeding that up lies not only in delivering more vaccine but also in working closely with states and local communities to get shots into the arms of more people. The Trump administration provided the vaccine to states and set guidelines for who should get priority for shots, but largely left it up to state and local officials to organize their vaccination campaigns.It’s still unclear how the new administration will address the issue of vaccine hesitancy, the doubts and suspicions that keep many people from getting a shot. Polls show it’s particularly a problem among Black Americans.“We will have to move heaven and earth to get more people vaccinated,” Biden said.Next Wednesday, when Biden is sworn in as president, marks the anniversary of the&nbsp;<a href="https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/26/6/20-0516_article" target="_blank">first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the United States</a>.___

🎥  Biden's 'American Rescue Plan' includes direct payments

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a murder have identified the victim as 34-year-old Michael Montgomery of Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to a welfare call at 13th&nbsp;and Oliver in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; A citizen reported&nbsp; 39-year-old Jason Payne lying face down in the middle of the street at the intersection.&nbsp; 

Upon arrival, officers contacted Payne who needed medical assistance.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital, treated, and released.

Through the investigation of this incident, information was learned of a man possibly being injured at a home in the 900 block of North Oliver.&nbsp; Officers went to the home and found&nbsp; Montgomery unresponsive.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased on the scene..

Further investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Montgomery and Payne, his cousin. at the home on North Oliver.  During the disturbance, Payne pulled out a knife and stabbed Montgomery multiple times.

Police arrested Payne on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Davidson.

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Montgomery and Payne at their home in the 900 block of North Oliver.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Payne pulled out a knife and stabbed Montgomery multiple times.

The investigation is ongoing, and it will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Through the investigation of this incident, information was learned of a man possibly being injured at a home in the 900 block of North Oliver.&nbsp; Officers went to the home and found a male unresponsive.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased on the scene and is believed to be a family member of Payne.

The investigation revealed a physical disturbance occurred at the home, and investigators are still working to learn additional details of what occurred, according to Davidson.

This was not a random incident, and the case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610628823403.png" alt="Payne" />
 <figcaption>Payne</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a murder have identified the victim as 34-year-old Michael Montgomery of Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to a welfare call at 13th&nbsp;and Oliver in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; A citizen reported&nbsp; 39-year-old Jason Payne lying face down in the middle of the street at the intersection.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers contacted Payne who needed medical assistance.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital, treated, and released.Through the investigation of this incident, information was learned of a man possibly being injured at a home in the 900 block of North Oliver.&nbsp; Officers went to the home and found&nbsp; Montgomery unresponsive.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased on the scene..Further investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Montgomery and Payne, his cousin. at the home on North Oliver. During the disturbance, Payne pulled out a knife and stabbed Montgomery multiple times.Police arrested Payne on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Davidson.The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Montgomery and Payne at their home in the 900 block of North Oliver.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Payne pulled out a knife and stabbed Montgomery multiple times.The investigation is ongoing, and it will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to a welfare call at 13th&nbsp;and Oliver in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; A citizen reported&nbsp; 39-year-old Jason Payne lying face down in the middle of the street at the intersection.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers contacted Payne who needed medical assistance.&nbsp; He was transported to an area hospital, treated, and released.Through the investigation of this incident, information was learned of a man possibly being injured at a home in the 900 block of North Oliver.&nbsp; Officers went to the home and found a male unresponsive.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased on the scene and is believed to be a family member of Payne.The investigation revealed a physical disturbance occurred at the home, and investigators are still working to learn additional details of what occurred, according to Davidson.Police arrested Payne on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Davidson.This was not a random incident, and the case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Police: Kan. murder suspect stabbed cousin to death

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teenager on a variety of charges after a traffic stop.

Just before 1 a.m. Wednesday Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2008 Chevrolet Equinox near SW Huntoon Street and SW Belle Avenue, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

 During the investigation, the K9 was deployed and narcotics were located inside the vehicle.

Deputies arrested a&nbsp; 15-year-old boy from Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on multiple requested drug related charges as well as felony criminal use of a firearm, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, transport open container of liquor, driving without a valid license and tag not assigned.

The sheriff's department released no additional details.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teenager on a variety of charges after a traffic stop.Just before 1 a.m. Wednesday Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2008 Chevrolet Equinox near SW Huntoon Street and SW Belle Avenue, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. During the investigation, the K9 was deployed and narcotics were located inside the vehicle.Deputies arrested a&nbsp; 15-year-old boy from Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on multiple requested drug related charges as well as felony criminal use of a firearm, failure to yield to emergency vehicle, transport open container of liquor, driving without a valid license and tag not assigned.The sheriff's department released no additional details.

Sheriff: 15-year-old Kan. boy was driving with drugs, firearm

WICHITA—A Kansas man was sentenced Tuesday for nine counts of "Jessica's Law child sex crimes, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Judge Jeffrey Syrios sentenced Nathan Brazille, 61 of Wichita,&nbsp; on nine convictions and imposed the statutory life sentence (with parole eligibility after 25 years) on each count and then ran each count consecutive for a controlling sentence of life in prison without parole eligibility for 225 years. 

Brazille’s original sentencing hearing had been continued when he was appointed a new attorney following the jury trial to challenge the effective assistance of his trial lawyer. 

A separate evidentiary hearing was held in December of 2020 on that issue.

Tuesday, Judge Syrios denied the motion for new trial, finding that Brazille received the effective assistance of counsel from his trial lawyer. The court then proceeded to sentencing on the nine convictions. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610634102976.png" alt="Brazille photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Brazille photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA—A Kansas man was sentenced Tuesday for nine counts of "Jessica's Law child sex crimes, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Judge Jeffrey Syrios sentenced Nathan Brazille, 61 of Wichita,&nbsp; on nine convictions and imposed the statutory life sentence (with parole eligibility after 25 years) on each count and then ran each count consecutive for a controlling sentence of life in prison without parole eligibility for 225 years. Brazille’s original sentencing hearing had been continued when he was appointed a new attorney following the jury trial to challenge the effective assistance of his trial lawyer. A separate evidentiary hearing was held in December of 2020 on that issue.Tuesday, Judge Syrios denied the motion for new trial, finding that Brazille received the effective assistance of counsel from his trial lawyer. The court then proceeded to sentencing on the nine convictions.

Life in prison for Kan. man on 9 child sex crime charges

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Republican-led state Senate on Thursday approved a bill that would extend Kansas’ state of emergency while limiting Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s power to direct the pandemic response, as workers sought to speed up the pace of coronavirus vaccinations.

A law enacted in June limits Kelly’s ability to close businesses and allows counties to opt out of health orders she issues. The law and a state of emergency that makes it easier for officials to deal with the pandemic are set to expire Jan. 26. The bill voted on Thursday would extend both through March 31.

The Senate’s 34-1 vote to approve the measure sent it to the House.

Businesses, nursing homes and medical providers are granted some protections from lawsuits under the law, and their lobbyists have expressed support for extending it.

GOP lawmakers pushed to limit Kelly after she imposed a statewide stay-at-home order for five weeks early in the pandemic, saying she acted too aggressively too early and seriously damaged the state’s economy. But Kelly has said she does not regret taking aggressive action early because Kansas had to get more information about the virus.

Scott Brunner, a deputy secretary at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, told senate public health and welfare committee members on Thursday that the agency is “hoping” by next week to start requiring state nursing home inspectors to take virus tests.

The comment came a day after Tony Johnson, chief operating officer of Recovery-Care Healthcare, an organization owning 18 nursing homes in Kansas, told committee legislators that state health surveyors were entering into his group’s facilities without taking virus tests, which he called ironic, “given the circumstances that we’re living in right now.”

Meanwhile, health officials are working to finish vaccinating front-line health care workers and long-term care residents. CDC data Thursday showed that the state had administered 91,565 doses, with 3,143 out of every 100,000 residents getting a first dose.

“We have been out there beating the bushes trying to find every small dentist office and chiropractic office everything we can to get people vaccinated and we think we have got them all covered,” said Dr. Allen Greiner, the top public health official for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas.

He said he thinks the county eventually will be able to vaccinate 2,000 people a day at its mass vaccination site and has even immunized some health care workers from neighboring Johnson County.

“We are all trying to share,” he said in a webcast Thursday.

One issue has been people rejecting the vaccine, said Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer at the University of Kansas Health System.

“Even on our own campus we are vaccinating about 60% to 65% of our own people. That means we have 35% to 40% turning it down,” he said during the webcast.

Jason Glenn, a professor in the Department of History and Philosophy of Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, said there are many minority communities with historical reasons to be distrustful of the medical community, including mistreatment and exploitation in experiments.

“Combined with this history is all of the misinformation that circulates in our age,” Glenn said. “So many people rely on various social media platforms to learn about what is happening in the world and that information is often not just not credible but intentionally misleading. That makes for a time bomb as far as how people perceive the vaccine.”

Despite the challenges, the biggest issue for now is supply, Greiner and Stites said.

“The truth is we have clinics set up,” Stites said. “We are ready to go. We could be doing thousands of people a day, we could do 2,000 people a day. And I know Wyandotte County could do thousands a day. I know Johnson County could do thousands a day. We have got to get the vaccination in. We have to get the vaccination here.”

But Stites predicted that the supply issues wouldn’t last long — perhaps as few as a couple months — as more vaccines are approved and production ramps up.

“You can stay safe while you wait for the vaccine,” he said. “You have been doing it for 10 months. Two more months, two more months. We can get this done.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610672519775.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly visited the the Unified Government of Wyandotte County's vaccination site Thursday. -photo courtesy office of Kan. Governor" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly visited the the Unified Government of Wyandotte County's vaccination site Thursday. -photo courtesy office of Kan. Governor</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Republican-led state Senate on Thursday approved a bill that would extend Kansas’ state of emergency while limiting Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s power to direct the pandemic response, as workers sought to speed up the pace of coronavirus vaccinations.A law enacted in June limits Kelly’s ability to close businesses and allows counties to opt out of health orders she issues. The law and a state of emergency that makes it easier for officials to deal with the pandemic are set to expire Jan. 26. The bill voted on Thursday would extend both through March 31.The Senate’s 34-1 vote to approve the measure sent it to the House.Businesses, nursing homes and medical providers are granted some protections from lawsuits under the law, and their lobbyists have expressed support for extending it.GOP lawmakers pushed to limit Kelly after she imposed a statewide stay-at-home order for five weeks early in the pandemic, saying she acted too aggressively too early and seriously damaged the state’s economy. But Kelly has said she does not regret taking aggressive action early because Kansas had to get more information about the virus.Scott Brunner, a deputy secretary at the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, told senate public health and welfare committee members on Thursday that the agency is “hoping” by next week to start requiring state nursing home inspectors to take virus tests.The comment came a day after Tony Johnson, chief operating officer of Recovery-Care Healthcare, an organization owning 18 nursing homes in Kansas, told committee legislators that state health surveyors were entering into his group’s facilities without taking virus tests, which he called ironic, “given the circumstances that we’re living in right now.”Meanwhile, health officials are working to finish vaccinating front-line health care workers and long-term care residents. CDC data Thursday showed that the state had administered 91,565 doses, with 3,143 out of every 100,000 residents getting a first dose.“We have been out there beating the bushes trying to find every small dentist office and chiropractic office everything we can to get people vaccinated and we think we have got them all covered,” said Dr. Allen Greiner, the top public health official for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas.He said he thinks the county eventually will be able to vaccinate 2,000 people a day at its mass vaccination site and has even immunized some health care workers from neighboring Johnson County.“We are all trying to share,” he said in a webcast Thursday.One issue has been people rejecting the vaccine, said Dr. Steve Stites, chief medical officer at the University of Kansas Health System.“Even on our own campus we are vaccinating about 60% to 65% of our own people. That means we have 35% to 40% turning it down,” he said during the webcast.Jason Glenn, a professor in the Department of History and Philosophy of Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, said there are many minority communities with historical reasons to be distrustful of the medical community, including mistreatment and exploitation in experiments.“Combined with this history is all of the misinformation that circulates in our age,” Glenn said. “So many people rely on various social media platforms to learn about what is happening in the world and that information is often not just not credible but intentionally misleading. That makes for a time bomb as far as how people perceive the vaccine.”Despite the challenges, the biggest issue for now is supply, Greiner and Stites said.“The truth is we have clinics set up,” Stites said. “We are ready to go. We could be doing thousands of people a day, we could do 2,000 people a day. And I know Wyandotte County could do thousands a day. I know Johnson County could do thousands a day. We have got to get the vaccination in. We have to get the vaccination here.”But Stites predicted that the supply issues wouldn’t last long — perhaps as few as a couple months — as more vaccines are approved and production ramps up.“You can stay safe while you wait for the vaccine,” he said. “You have been doing it for 10 months. Two more months, two more months. We can get this done.”___

Kan. Senate votes to extend COVID emergency, limit Kelly

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three Kansas men for alleged drug distribution.

Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police and Barton County Sheriff’s Deputies executed a narcotic search warrant at 214 West 1st Street in Ellinwood, according to a media release.

Officers located a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine along with packing materials and distribution paraphernalia. 

Officers arrested the homeowner 57-year-old Eugene Patrick Merica and 70-year-old roommate Stewart William Clay.

 A third suspect 42-year-old Steven Brian Merica was not home at the time of the search and was later arrested at a residence in Ellinwood.

All three suspects were transported to Barton County Jail, where they were booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp in lieu of 300,000-dollar bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610638288205.png" alt="Stephen Merica -photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Stephen Merica -photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three Kansas men for alleged drug distribution.Just before 6p.m. Tuesday, police and Barton County Sheriff’s Deputies executed a narcotic search warrant at 214 West 1st Street in Ellinwood, according to a media release.Officers located a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine along with packing materials and distribution paraphernalia. Officers arrested the homeowner 57-year-old Eugene Patrick Merica and 70-year-old roommate Stewart William Clay.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610638326301.png" alt="Roommates Stewart Clay and Eugene Merica" />
 <figcaption>Roommates Stewart Clay and Eugene Merica</figcaption>
 </figure> A third suspect 42-year-old Steven Brian Merica was not home at the time of the search and was later arrested at a residence in Ellinwood.All three suspects were transported to Barton County Jail, where they were booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp in lieu of 300,000-dollar bond..

70-year-old Kan. man accused of meth distribution 

TOPEKA —Following a request for support from the District of Columbia National Guard, Gov. Laura Kelly has authorized the deployment of approximately 300 Kansas Guardsmen to Washington D.C. in support of next week's presidential inauguration, according to a media release from the&nbsp;Adjutant General's office. "The presidential inauguration is a collaborative event, requiring extraordinary support from many federal and state agencies," Kelly said. "The National Guard has supported presidential inaugurations since the founding of our nation.&nbsp; I'm incredibly thankful for everything they do, and this is just the latest example of our Kansas National Guard being always ready to answer the call for our state and nation." The Kansas Guardsmen will be transported on KC-135s flown by the Kansas Air National Guard's 190th Air Refueling Wing and will join a force of approximately 20,000 National Guardsmen from across the nation. The Soldiers and Airmen represent the following:&nbsp; the Kansas Army National Guard's 130th Field Artillery Battalion (Manhattan); 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery (Hutchinson); 997th Brigade Support Battalion (Hays); 330th Signal Company (Wichita); 1161st Forward Support Company (Wichita); 250th Forward Support Company (Ottawa); 170th Maintenance Company (Wichita); 995th Maintenance Company (Smith Center); 635th Regional Support Group (Wichita); 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation (Topeka); 891st Engineer Battalion (Iola); 226th Engineer Company (Augusta); 242nd Engineer Company (Coffeyville); 772nd Engineer Company (Pittsburg); 1st Battalion, 635th Armor (Kansas City); 235th Regiment (Salina); 169th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (Olathe); and 731st Transportation Company(Great Bend); and the Kansas Air National Guard's 184th Wing (Wichita) and the 190th Air Refueling Wing (Topeka).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610479425263.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Following a request for support from the District of Columbia National Guard, Gov. Laura Kelly has authorized the deployment of approximately 300 Kansas Guardsmen to Washington D.C. in support of next week's presidential inauguration, according to a media release from the&nbsp;Adjutant General's office. "The presidential inauguration is a collaborative event, requiring extraordinary support from many federal and state agencies," Kelly said. "The National Guard has supported presidential inaugurations since the founding of our nation.&nbsp; I'm incredibly thankful for everything they do, and this is just the latest example of our Kansas National Guard being always ready to answer the call for our state and nation." The Kansas Guardsmen will be transported on KC-135s flown by the Kansas Air National Guard's 190th Air Refueling Wing and will join a force of approximately 20,000 National Guardsmen from across the nation. The Soldiers and Airmen represent the following:&nbsp; the Kansas Army National Guard's 130th Field Artillery Battalion (Manhattan); 1st Battalion, 161st Field Artillery (Hutchinson); 997th Brigade Support Battalion (Hays); 330th Signal Company (Wichita); 1161st Forward Support Company (Wichita); 250th Forward Support Company (Ottawa); 170th Maintenance Company (Wichita); 995th Maintenance Company (Smith Center); 635th Regional Support Group (Wichita); 1st Battalion, 108th Aviation (Topeka); 891st Engineer Battalion (Iola); 226th Engineer Company (Augusta); 242nd Engineer Company (Coffeyville); 772nd Engineer Company (Pittsburg); 1st Battalion, 635th Armor (Kansas City); 235th Regiment (Salina); 169th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (Olathe); and 731st Transportation Company(Great Bend); and the Kansas Air National Guard's 184th Wing (Wichita) and the 190th Air Refueling Wing (Topeka).

Kan. National Guardsmen will support presidential inauguration

MEDICINE LODGE, Kan. (AP) — A man has been sentenced to more than a year in prison and fined $310,000 for poaching 60 deer in southern Kansas, state wildlife officials said.

John Blick, Jr., 28, of Sharon, pleaded guilty in November to 139 hunting-related counts in Barber County, as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also was charged with 33 misdemeanors in Harper County in the killing of three trophy deer.

Blick was sentenced to 14 months in prison, the Kansas Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism department said Thursday. He was also ordered to pay the agency $310,000, which is the estimated value of the deer.

Blick was arrested after a multi-year investigation involving several agencies. The wildlife department said information gathered during the investigation could lead to future prosecutions of other wildlife violators.

Some of the charges against Blick included criminal hunting, hunting from a vehicle, using artificial light, exceeding bag limits and hunting without a license.

The deer heads will be destroyed and equipment and firearms will be forfeited to the state of Kansas, authorities said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610645880918.png" alt="Blick-photo Harper Co." />
 <figcaption>Blick-photo Harper Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MEDICINE LODGE, Kan. (AP) — A man has been sentenced to more than a year in prison and fined $310,000 for poaching 60 deer in southern Kansas, state wildlife officials said.John Blick, Jr., 28, of Sharon, pleaded guilty in November to 139 hunting-related counts in Barber County, as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm. He also was charged with 33 misdemeanors in Harper County in the killing of three trophy deer.Blick was sentenced to 14 months in prison, the Kansas Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism department said Thursday. He was also ordered to pay the agency $310,000, which is the estimated value of the deer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610645665123.png" alt="photo courtesy KDWPT Game Wardens" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy KDWPT Game Wardens</figcaption>
 </figure>Blick was arrested after a multi-year investigation involving several agencies. The wildlife department said information gathered during the investigation could lead to future prosecutions of other wildlife violators.Some of the charges against Blick included criminal hunting, hunting from a vehicle, using artificial light, exceeding bag limits and hunting without a license.The deer heads will be destroyed and equipment and firearms will be forfeited to the state of Kansas, authorities said.

Kan. man going back to prison, fined $310K for poaching

OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has been found guilty of federal securities fraud and sentenced to four years' supervised probation. 

The office of U.S. Attorney General for Kansas Derek Schmidt says in a news release that 64-year-old Michael Davin, of Olathe, also was ordered Monday to pay more than $81,000 in restitution to a former client. 

Davin pleaded no contest to a single count back in December. Prosecutors say Davin failed to disclose to the investor that he had prior felony convictions, including two for theft. The securities case was initially filed in October 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610658041549.png" alt="Davin photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Davin photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OLATHE, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man has been found guilty of federal securities fraud and sentenced to four years' supervised probation. The office of U.S. Attorney General for Kansas Derek Schmidt says in a news release that 64-year-old Michael Davin, of Olathe, also was ordered Monday to pay more than $81,000 in restitution to a former client. Davin pleaded no contest to a single count back in December. Prosecutors say Davin failed to disclose to the investor that he had prior felony convictions, including two for theft. The securities case was initially filed in October 2018.

Kan. man ordered to repay investor in securities fraud case

DOUGLAS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 3:30a.m. Thursday in Douglas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Freightliner straight truck driven by Eric J. Burge, 54, Kansas City, MO., was&nbsp; eastbound on Kansas 10 Highway just east of 1900 Road.

&nbsp;The truck crossed the center median into westbound lanes and stuck a 2006 Acura TSX driven by Robert Stanley Walston, Jr. 23, Olathe, head-on&nbsp; Both vehicles came to rest in the north ditch.

Walston was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Foresics. EMS transported Burge to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610654026458.png" alt="The westbound lanes of K-10 were closed from the Church Street exit to E 1900 Road until just before noon Thursday, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/ott/news/one-person-killed-in-crash-near-eudora-ks/video_073a84d1-4119-50b4-a964-cad1fabab3d6.html?block_id=991162">photo courtesy KCTV</a>" />
 <figcaption>The westbound lanes of K-10 were closed from the Church Street exit to E 1900 Road until just before noon Thursday, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/ott/news/one-person-killed-in-crash-near-eudora-ks/video_073a84d1-4119-50b4-a964-cad1fabab3d6.html?block_id=991162">photo courtesy KCTV</a></figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 3:30a.m. Thursday in Douglas County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Freightliner straight truck driven by Eric J. Burge, 54, Kansas City, MO., was&nbsp; eastbound on Kansas 10 Highway just east of 1900 Road.&nbsp;The truck crossed the center median into westbound lanes and stuck a 2006 Acura TSX driven by Robert Stanley Walston, Jr. 23, Olathe, head-on&nbsp; Both vehicles came to rest in the north ditch.Walston was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Foresics. EMS transported Burge to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

23-year-old Kan. man dies after head-on truck crash

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly outlined a proposed annual budget Wednesday that includes a tax increase and two other major initiatives likely to be rejected by the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature.

Kelly’s&nbsp;<a href="https://budget.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/FY2022_GBR_Vol1-1-13-2021.pdf" target="_blank">$20.9 billion spending plan</a>&nbsp;for the budget year that begins July 1 would protect a previously promised increase in funding for public schools, pay for upgrades in state computer systems and provide a 2.5% pay increase for state workers. It also would make reductions in some agencies’ spending so that the state would end June 2022 with a projected financial cushion of more than $680 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610501495272.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during her virtual State of the State address Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during her virtual State of the State address Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly outlined a proposed annual budget Wednesday that includes a tax increase and two other major initiatives likely to be rejected by the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature.Kelly’s&nbsp;<a href="https://budget.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/FY2022_GBR_Vol1-1-13-2021.pdf" target="_blank">$20.9 billion spending plan</a>&nbsp;for the budget year that begins July 1 would protect a previously promised increase in funding for public schools, pay for upgrades in state computer systems and provide a 2.5% pay increase for state workers. It also would make reductions in some agencies’ spending so that the state would end June 2022 with a projected financial cushion of more than $680 million.But the governor proposed reducing the state’s annual contribution to its pension system for teachers and government workers to free up funds for programs — an idea that Republican majorities rejected in 2019 and 2020. She is renewing her push to expand the state’s Medical health coverage for the needy, which GOP leaders oppose.Kelly also proposed imposing the state’s sales tax on online music and movie purchases and on sales through websites such as Etsy and eBay to raise $86 million a year. Republican leaders last year derided that idea as a “Netflix tax” and have made&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-elections-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-e909c91aea0d882258377cd9305f5bc2">cutting income taxes</a>&nbsp;a top priority this year.“It just seems like we just keep going back to the same methods,” said House Appropriations Committee Chair Troy Waymaster, a Bunker Hill Republican. “Why are we trying to resurrect components of a budget that for the most part is not going pass the Legislature?”Kelly later dismissed the GOP’s criticism as an expected negotiating tactic.“Even as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, my budget is fiscally sound,” she said during a Statehouse news conference. “It maintains investments in core services, like education, infrastructure and economic development.”A fiscal forecast issued by state officials and legislative researchers in November was sunnier than the previous one, and tax collections through December still were&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegresearch.org/KLRD-web/Publications/SGF/FY2021/FY2021-SGF06-July-December.pdf" target="_blank">1.7% higher&nbsp;</a>than expected. That for now has all but eliminated a projected shortfall for the next budget year, but the state’s employment picture also worsened in December, nine months after the pandemic reached Kansas.“There are signs of improvement in the economy across a couple of different sectors, but the economic outlook does remain uncertain across the nation,” Adam Proffitt, Kelly’s budget director, told lawmakers during a presentation on her proposals.The spending covered by the state’s general tax revenues would rise by 1.2%, to nearly $8 billion, reflecting Kelly’s commitment to higher funding for public schools in line with a law enacted in 2019 to settle a lawsuit over education spending. Total spending from all sources, including federal funds, would remain just shy of $21 billion.Kelly’s plan would leave $601 million in cash reserves, plus another $82 million in an emergency budget stabilization fund.But Kansas could have such a financial cushion and finance Kelly’s spending proposals because her plan would give the state another 10 years — until 2046 — to close a long-term, $9 billion gap in funding for the state pension system. Kelly’s move would free up $159 million during the next budget year by dropping the next annual pension contribution by 24%.The state in 2012 committed itself to an aggressive plan of rising annual contributions to the pension system to close its long-term funding gap, something squeezing annual state budgets.But Kelly’s plan comes with a long-term cost of $4.6 billion in extra interest payments over 25 years. The state pension system is 70% funded, and some Republican lawmakers want to wait at least a few more years before considering a new, less aggressive schedule of pension contributions.Meanwhile, Kelly and her aides pitched the proposed “Netflix tax” as a matter of fairness, arguing that Kansas businesses with physical stores are at a competitive disadvantage because they have to collect the state’s 6.5% sales tax.“These provisions are merely updates to the tax code, which was written before the days of online shopping and streaming,” Kelly spokesperson Lauren Fitzgerald said.Republican lawmakers immediately were skeptical that the tax proposal would raise as much as Kelly estimates and said the state’s taxes already are too high.Legislators expected Kelly to push again for Medicaid expansion, and her plan is designed to provide coverage for an additional 165,000 people, starting in 2022.Her budget says the state would spend $19 million over the first six months but that the rest would come from $541 million in federal funds. Kansas is among only 12 states that haven’t expanded Medicaid in line with the 2010 federal Affordable Care Act championed by former Democratic President Barack Obama.Republicans question whether the state’s costs will be so low and their leaders have said they have different priorities, including helping small businesses hurt by the pandemic.House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, said Kelly proposed “a trifecta of things that aren’t going to go anywhere.”