LYON COUNTY —Several children suffered minor injuries when a school bus rolled onto its side near Emporia on Wednesday morning, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Patrol Lt. Dave Hundley say 36 students, two teachers, a chaperone and the driver were on the bus when it went into a ditch off a slushy Kansas Turnpike about 14 miles south of Emporia.

 Seventeen children were taken to Newman Regional Health for minor injuries. Some were taken to Emporia High School, who graciously cared for the students, according to Lyon County Sgt. Jacob Welsh.&nbsp;

The bus was carrying students from Park Elementary School in Wichita. The&nbsp; students were on their way to a Topeka for a field trip.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581536529045.png" alt="Wednesday school bus crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday school bus crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Several children suffered minor injuries when a school bus rolled onto its side near Emporia on Wednesday morning, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.Patrol Lt. Dave Hundley say 36 students, two teachers, a chaperone and the driver were on the bus when it went into a ditch off a slushy Kansas Turnpike about 14 miles south of Emporia. Seventeen children were taken to Newman Regional Health for minor injuries. Some were taken to Emporia High School, who graciously cared for the students, according to Lyon County Sgt. Jacob Welsh.&nbsp;The bus was carrying students from Park Elementary School in Wichita. The&nbsp; students were on their way to a Topeka for a field trip.&nbsp;

Students injured in school bus accident on Kan. Turnpike

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the murder of a man whose body was found Monday under a bridge in Wichita.

&nbsp;The victim has been identified as 59-year-old Bernard Woodard, according to officer Charley Davidson. He was a homeless man living underneath the Douglas Street Bridge when he was attacked on Monday, causing fatal injuries.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Woodard had blunt force injuries to his body and could have been under the bridge for as long as a day,&nbsp; according to Police Capt. Jason Stephens.

If you have any information on this case, please call WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407, Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111, or the See Something Say Something hotline at 316-519-2282.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Police say a homeless man whose body was found under a bridge in Wichita apparently was beaten to death.

The body of a black man was found Monday afternoon under a bridge near Douglas and McLean in Wichita. The man appeared to be in his 60s.

Capt. Jason Stephens says the man had blunt force injuries to his body and could have been under the bridge for as long as a day. Authorities are working to learn his identity.

This is the seventh homicide in Wichita this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581533809898.png" alt="Bernard Woodard photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Bernard Woodard photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the murder of a man whose body was found Monday under a bridge in Wichita.&nbsp;The victim has been identified as 59-year-old Bernard Woodard, according to officer Charley Davidson. He was a homeless man living underneath the Douglas Street Bridge when he was attacked on Monday, causing fatal injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;Woodard had blunt force injuries to his body and could have been under the bridge for as long as a day,&nbsp; according to Police Capt. Jason Stephens.Police need help with the investigation.If you have any information on this case, please call WPD Detectives at 316-268-4407, Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111, or the See Something Say Something hotline at 316-519-2282.-------SEDGWICK COUNTY—Police say a homeless man whose body was found under a bridge in Wichita apparently was beaten to death.The body of a black man was found Monday afternoon under a bridge near Douglas and McLean in Wichita. The man appeared to be in his 60s.Capt. Jason Stephens says the man had blunt force injuries to his body and could have been under the bridge for as long as a day. Authorities are working to learn his identity.This is the seventh homicide in Wichita this year.

Homicide investigation: Police ID body found under Kan. bridge

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a man has been taken into custody at the Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City, Kansas, after a standoff that led to a temporary lockdown at the indoor water park and hotel.

Police said in a news release that officers responded shortly after 7 p.m. Tuesday to reports of an armed disturbance when the man refused to leave.

After efforts to negotiate with him failed, a special operations unit went into the room and took him into custody. During the standoff, the wing of the hotel where the man barricaded himself was evacuated and all other guests were asked to stay in their rooms.

No one was hurt. The name of the man wasn’t immediately released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581533036774.png" alt="Police on the scene of the standoff -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the standoff -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a man has been taken into custody at the Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City, Kansas, after a standoff that led to a temporary lockdown at the indoor water park and hotel.Police said in a news release that officers responded shortly after 7 p.m. Tuesday to reports of an armed disturbance when the man refused to leave.After efforts to negotiate with him failed, a special operations unit went into the room and took him into custody. During the standoff, the wing of the hotel where the man barricaded himself was evacuated and all other guests were asked to stay in their rooms.No one was hurt. The name of the man wasn’t immediately released.

Man arrested after standoff at Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City

WOODSON COUNTY— One person died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Woodson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Buick passenger car driven by Laura L. Hegwald, 48, Yates Center,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 75&nbsp; two miles south of Yates Center.

The driver lost control of the vehicle. It spun and the rear of the Buick struck a 2016 Dodge Ram pickup driven by Michelle L. Lever, 38,&nbsp;Neodesha, head-on.

Hegwald was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Jones-Campbell Funeral Home in Burlington. Lever was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

WOODSON COUNTY— One person died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Woodson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Buick passenger car driven by Laura L. Hegwald, 48, Yates Center,&nbsp;was southbound on U.S. 75&nbsp; two miles south of Yates Center.The driver lost control of the vehicle. It spun and the rear of the Buick struck a 2016 Dodge Ram pickup driven by Michelle L. Lever, 38,&nbsp;Neodesha, head-on.Hegwald was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Jones-Campbell Funeral Home in Burlington. Lever was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after head-on crash

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper found nearly $350,000 of suspected drug money hidden in the gas tank of a pickup truck after pulling over the driver on Interstate 70.

Federal prosecutors filed a civil asset forfeiture case Tuesday, asking a judge to give the money to the government.

The money was found in December after a trooper pulled over the driver for a traffic violation. The affidavit says the cash was “rubber-banded” and “wrapped in vacuum-sealed plastic bags” hidden in the fuel tank.

The driver told the trooper he was headed from Chicago to Pasco, Washington, but declined to answer questions about the money. He has a criminal history involving money laundering.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Authorities say a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper found nearly $350,000 of suspected drug money hidden in the gas tank of a pickup truck after pulling over the driver on Interstate 70.Federal prosecutors filed a civil asset forfeiture case Tuesday, asking a judge to give the money to the government.The money was found in December after a trooper pulled over the driver for a traffic violation. The affidavit says the cash was “rubber-banded” and “wrapped in vacuum-sealed plastic bags” hidden in the fuel tank.The driver told the trooper he was headed from Chicago to Pasco, Washington, but declined to answer questions about the money. He has a criminal history involving money laundering.

Kansas trooper finds nearly $350K of suspected drug money

By NADYA FAULX, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/wichita-considers-regulating-plastic-bags-state-bill-would-prevent-ban">Kansas News Service</a>

A <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/hb2625/" target="_blank">new bill</a>
 introduced this week in the Kansas House Commerce Committee would 
pre-emptively prevent state municipalities from enacting their own bans 
or taxes on plastic items, including shopping bags.

The push 
comes days after the Wichita City Council appointed a Single-Use Plastic
 Bag Task Force to look into the issue and possibly craft an ordinance 
regulating plastic bags in the city.

The task force includes activists, former and current city officials and business representatives.

“My
 goal, our goal, the ones of us who got this going, is to ban plastic 
bags in Wichita,” says Lori Lawrence, one of the group’s members and an 
organizer of <a href="https://www.bagfreewichita.com/" target="_blank">Bag Free Wichita</a>. “The goal of the task force, to me, is to write an ordinance.”

Wichita
 isn’t the first Kansas city to try to tackle the issue of single-use 
plastic bags, which have a short lifespan and often end up in landfills —
 if they haven’t landed in a stream or a tree first. The Lawrence City 
Commission last year <a href="https://lawrenceks.org/2019/11/13/city-of-lawrence-seeks-public-input-on-single-use-plastic-and-paper-bags/" target="_blank">began looking into</a>
 ways to either ban or charge for single-use plastic and paper bags; 
some council members in Prairie Village, in Johnson County, also <a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/prairie-village-leaders-want-to-ban-plastic-bags" target="_blank">recently proposed a ban</a>.

The Kansas Chamber of Commerce, which is pushing for the bill now in the state Legislature, says in its <a href="http://www.kansaschamber.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2020-Legislative-Agenda-Final.pdf" target="_blank">2020 legislative agenda</a>&nbsp;that it will oppose bans on plastic items, including bags and straws.

If a bill is passed, Kansas would join <a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/plastic-bag-legislation.aspx" target="_blank">15 other states </a>that
 have already enacted pre-emptive laws against plastic bans; that’s 
compared to the eight states that have passed plastic bag bans, 
according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Lori Lawrence says she understands why some opponents of a ban or tax worry the change wouldn’t go over well with shoppers.

“That’s
 a legitimate concern,” she says. “I have no doubt that it’s going to 
make a change for them. But it’s not an impossible change. It can be 
done.”

Lawrence says she hopes Wichita will have an ordinance passed by the end of the year.

The
 task force has yet to meet, and Lawrence says a change, if any, 
wouldn’t happen overnight: Similar ordinances have been phased in, 
allowing stores time to make the switch.

“Most of the places … 
will do a gradual implementation, warn the businesses ahead of time so 
they don’t order any more plastic bags,” Lawrence says. “It’ll take a 
while.”

And, she says, any ordinance would likely only apply to 
bags of a certain thickness. She says those are among the details the 
task force will need to discuss when it meets later this year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581453262212.jpeg" alt=" The city of Wichita formed a Single-Use Plastic Bag Task Force last week to research possibly banning or taxing plastic bags. Nadya Faulx / KMUW" />
 <figcaption> The city of Wichita formed a Single-Use Plastic Bag Task Force last week to research possibly banning or taxing plastic bags. Nadya Faulx / KMUW</figcaption>
 </figure>By NADYA FAULX, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/wichita-considers-regulating-plastic-bags-state-bill-would-prevent-ban">Kansas News Service</a>Call it a ban on plastic bag bans.A <a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/hb2625/" target="_blank">new bill</a>
 introduced this week in the Kansas House Commerce Committee would 
pre-emptively prevent state municipalities from enacting their own bans 
or taxes on plastic items, including shopping bags.The push 
comes days after the Wichita City Council appointed a Single-Use Plastic
 Bag Task Force to look into the issue and possibly craft an ordinance 
regulating plastic bags in the city.The task force includes activists, former and current city officials and business representatives.“My
 goal, our goal, the ones of us who got this going, is to ban plastic 
bags in Wichita,” says Lori Lawrence, one of the group’s members and an 
organizer of <a href="https://www.bagfreewichita.com/" target="_blank">Bag Free Wichita</a>. “The goal of the task force, to me, is to write an ordinance.”Wichita
 isn’t the first Kansas city to try to tackle the issue of single-use 
plastic bags, which have a short lifespan and often end up in landfills —
 if they haven’t landed in a stream or a tree first. The Lawrence City 
Commission last year <a href="https://lawrenceks.org/2019/11/13/city-of-lawrence-seeks-public-input-on-single-use-plastic-and-paper-bags/" target="_blank">began looking into</a>
 ways to either ban or charge for single-use plastic and paper bags; 
some council members in Prairie Village, in Johnson County, also <a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/prairie-village-leaders-want-to-ban-plastic-bags" target="_blank">recently proposed a ban</a>.The Kansas Chamber of Commerce, which is pushing for the bill now in the state Legislature, says in its <a href="http://www.kansaschamber.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2020-Legislative-Agenda-Final.pdf" target="_blank">2020 legislative agenda</a>&nbsp;that it will oppose bans on plastic items, including bags and straws.If a bill is passed, Kansas would join <a href="https://www.ncsl.org/research/environment-and-natural-resources/plastic-bag-legislation.aspx" target="_blank">15 other states </a>that
 have already enacted pre-emptive laws against plastic bans; that’s 
compared to the eight states that have passed plastic bag bans, 
according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.Lori Lawrence says she understands why some opponents of a ban or tax worry the change wouldn’t go over well with shoppers.“That’s
 a legitimate concern,” she says. “I have no doubt that it’s going to 
make a change for them. But it’s not an impossible change. It can be 
done.”Lawrence says she hopes Wichita will have an ordinance passed by the end of the year.The
 task force has yet to meet, and Lawrence says a change, if any, 
wouldn’t happen overnight: Similar ordinances have been phased in, 
allowing stores time to make the switch.“Most of the places … 
will do a gradual implementation, warn the businesses ahead of time so 
they don’t order any more plastic bags,” Lawrence says. “It’ll take a 
while.”And, she says, any ordinance would likely only apply to 
bags of a certain thickness. She says those are among the details the 
task force will need to discuss when it meets later this year.

As Wichita considers regulating plastic bags, state bill would prevent ban 

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A man and woman have been charged in the fatal shooting of a Pizza Hut employee during a robbery attempt in which the victim’s coworkers hid in the freezer of the Kansas City, Kansas, restaurant.

Wyandotte County prosecutors announced Tuesday that 33-year-old Gary Winters and 30-year-old Lacricia Leak-Myers are charged with first-degree murder and attempted aggravated robbery in the Jan. 28 death of 25-year-old Laron Briggs.

Charging documents say that Leak-Myers drove Winters and another person to the restaurant. The documents say Winters then went inside the restaurant to rob it. The robbery failed, although the documents provided no details about what scuttled it or what happened to the other person in the vehicle.

Winters previously served time in Kansas for aggravated robbery and aggravated assault.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581513350627.png" alt="Winters photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Winters photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A man and woman have been charged in the fatal shooting of a Pizza Hut employee during a robbery attempt in which the victim’s coworkers hid in the freezer of the Kansas City, Kansas, restaurant.Wyandotte County prosecutors announced Tuesday that 33-year-old Gary Winters and 30-year-old Lacricia Leak-Myers are charged with first-degree murder and attempted aggravated robbery in the Jan. 28 death of 25-year-old Laron Briggs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581519456815.png" alt="Lacricia Leak-Myers -photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Lacricia Leak-Myers -photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Charging documents say that Leak-Myers drove Winters and another person to the restaurant. The documents say Winters then went inside the restaurant to rob it. The robbery failed, although the documents provided no details about what scuttled it or what happened to the other person in the vehicle.Winters previously served time in Kansas for aggravated robbery and aggravated assault.

Man, woman charged in fatal Pizza Hut shooting in Kansas

HOUSTON (AP) — The Texas attorney general has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a California law prohibiting state employees from using taxpayer-funded business trips to expos or conferences in Texas.

Attorney General Ken Paxton asked the high court to reverse the ban on Monday. The Supreme Court has exclusive jurisdiction over civil disputes between states.

California adopted the ban following a 2017 Texas law that allows foster care and adoption agencies to deny services for religious beliefs. Supporters say the law does not discriminate because it requires the agencies to make referrals to other organizations.

But opponents argue the law gives child-placement offices legal authority to discriminate against the LGBT community and others.

Paxton called California’s ban “economic warfare” and an attempt “to punish Texans for respecting the right of conscience for foster care and adoption providers.”

“The law California opposes does not prevent anyone from contributing to child welfare,” Paxton said. “Boycotting states based on nothing more than political disagreement breaks down the ability of states to serve as laboratories of democracy while still working together as one nation — the very thing our Constitution intended to prevent.”

In a statement issued Tuesday, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra said his state has “chosen not to use taxpayer money to support laws discriminating against the LGBTQ community.”

The ban by California affects 11 states, including Kansas, Alabama, Iowa, Kentucky and South Carolina.

“Discriminatory laws in any part of our country send all of us several steps back,” Becerra said in 2017. “That’s why when California said we would not tolerate discrimination against LGBTQ members of our community, we meant it.”

HOUSTON (AP) — The Texas attorney general has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a California law prohibiting state employees from using taxpayer-funded business trips to expos or conferences in Texas.Attorney General Ken Paxton asked the high court to reverse the ban on Monday. The Supreme Court has exclusive jurisdiction over civil disputes between states.California adopted the ban following a 2017 Texas law that allows foster care and adoption agencies to deny services for religious beliefs. Supporters say the law does not discriminate because it requires the agencies to make referrals to other organizations.But opponents argue the law gives child-placement offices legal authority to discriminate against the LGBT community and others.Paxton called California’s ban “economic warfare” and an attempt “to punish Texans for respecting the right of conscience for foster care and adoption providers.”“The law California opposes does not prevent anyone from contributing to child welfare,” Paxton said. “Boycotting states based on nothing more than political disagreement breaks down the ability of states to serve as laboratories of democracy while still working together as one nation — the very thing our Constitution intended to prevent.”In a statement issued Tuesday, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra said his state has “chosen not to use taxpayer money to support laws discriminating against the LGBTQ community.”The ban by California affects 11 states, including Kansas, Alabama, Iowa, Kentucky and South Carolina.“Discriminatory laws in any part of our country send all of us several steps back,” Becerra said in 2017. “That’s why when California said we would not tolerate discrimination against LGBTQ members of our community, we meant it.”

High court asked to repeal Calif. travel ban; impacts Kansas, 10 other states

MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) — Bernie Sanders won New Hampshire’s presidential primary, edging moderate rival Pete Buttigieg and scoring the first clear victory in the Democratic Party’s chaotic 2020 nomination fight.

In his Tuesday night win, the 78-year-old Sanders, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0f19aa284fbb49eab5a07dcd28156e83">self-described democratic socialist</a>, beat back a strong challenge from the 38-year-old former mayor of South Bend, Indiana. The dueling Democrats represent different generations, see divergent paths to the nomination and embrace conflicting visions of America’s future.

As Sanders and Buttigieg celebrated,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/126ad1dc798c43eca57fb333a174121f">Amy Klobuchar scored an unexpected third-place finish</a>&nbsp;that gives her a road out of New Hampshire as the primary season moves on to the string of state-by-state contests that lie ahead.

Elizabeth Warren and Joe Biden posted disappointing fourth and fifth place finishes respectively and were on track to finish with zero delegates from the state.

The New Hampshire vote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9959d184290aa53be08635ab7ddce4ee">gives new clarity</a>&nbsp;to a Democratic contest shaping up to be a battle between two men separated by four decades in age and clashing political ideologies. Sanders is a leading progressive voice, having spent decades demanding substantial government intervention in health care and other sectors of the economy. Buttigieg has pressed for more incremental change, preferring to give Americans the option of retaining their private health insurance while appealing to Republicans and independents who may be dissatisfied with Trump.

Their disparate temperaments were on display Tuesday as they spoke before cheering supporters.

“We are gonna win because we have the agenda that speaks to the needs of working people across this country,” Sanders declared. “This victory here is the beginning of the end for Donald Trump.”

Buttigieg struck an optimistic tone: “Thanks to you, a campaign that some said shouldn’t be here at all has shown that we are here to stay.”

Both men have strength heading into the next phase of the campaign, yet they face very different political challenges.

While Warren made clear she will remain in the race, Sanders, well-financed and with an ardent army of supporters, has cemented his status as the clear leader of the progressive wing of the party.

Meanwhile, Buttigieg must prove he can attract support from voters of color who are critical to winning the nomination. And unlike Sanders, he still has multiple rivals in his own ideological wing of the party to contend with. They include Klobuchar, whose standout debate performance led to a late surge in New Hampshire and a growing national following. While deeply wounded, Biden promises strength in upcoming South Carolina. And though former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg was not on Tuesday’s ballot, he looms next month when the contest reaches states offering hundreds of delegates.

After a chaotic beginning to primary voting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6fa91b6c58290a24655c5ae25cdcb184">last week in Iowa</a>, Democrats hoped New Hampshire would help give shape to their urgent quest to pick someone to take on Trump in November. At least two candidates dropped out in the wake of weak finishes Tuesday night: moderate Colorado Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f7b6b5a71ec7dde119f18ba3451814ee">Michael Bennet</a>&nbsp;and political newcomer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dac9093037af268f867ed697a09d0556">Andrew Yang</a>, who attracted a small but loyal following over the past year and was one of just three candidates of color left in the race.

The struggling candidates&nbsp;<a href="https://interactives.ap.org/2020-candidates/" target="_blank">still in the race</a>&nbsp;sought to minimize the latest results.

Warren, who spent months as a Democratic front-runner, offered an optimistic outlook as she faced cheering supporters: “Our campaign is built for the long haul, and we are just getting started.”

Having already predicted he would “take a hit” in New Hampshire after a distant fourth-place finish in Iowa, Biden essentially ceded the state. He traveled to South Carolina Tuesday as he bet his candidacy on a strong showing there later this month boosted by support from black voters.

Still, history suggests that the first-in-the-nation primary will have enormous influence shaping the 2020 race. In the modern era, no Democrat has ever become the party’s general election nominee without finishing first or second in New Hampshire.

Sanders and Buttigieg were on track to win the same number of New Hampshire delegates with most of the vote tallied, with Klobuchar a few behind. Warren, Biden and the rest of the field were shut out, failing to reach the 15% threshold needed for delegates.

Results from New Hampshire's Democratic primary. (AP Graphic)

The AP allocated nine delegates each to Sanders and Buttigieg and six to Klobuchar.

The action was on the Democratic side, but Trump easily won New Hampshire’s Republican primary. He was facing token opposition from former Massachusetts Gov. Bill Weld.

With most of the vote in, Trump already had amassed more votes in the New Hampshire primary than any incumbent president in history. His vote share was approaching the modern historical high for an incumbent president, 86.43% set by Ronald Reagan in 1984. Weld received about 9% of the vote of New Hampshire Republicans.

The political spotlight quickly shifts to Nevada, where Democrats will hold caucuses on Feb. 22. But several candidates, including Warren and Sanders, plan to visit other states in the coming days that vote on Super Tuesday, signaling they are in the race for the long haul.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581506124144.png" alt="Bernie Sanders thanks supporters Tuesday night -image courtesy Sanders campaign for President." />
 <figcaption>Bernie Sanders thanks supporters Tuesday night -image courtesy Sanders campaign for President.</figcaption>
 </figure>MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) — Bernie Sanders won New Hampshire’s presidential primary, edging moderate rival Pete Buttigieg and scoring the first clear victory in the Democratic Party’s chaotic 2020 nomination fight.In his Tuesday night win, the 78-year-old Sanders, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/0f19aa284fbb49eab5a07dcd28156e83">self-described democratic socialist</a>, beat back a strong challenge from the 38-year-old former mayor of South Bend, Indiana. The dueling Democrats represent different generations, see divergent paths to the nomination and embrace conflicting visions of America’s future.As Sanders and Buttigieg celebrated,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/126ad1dc798c43eca57fb333a174121f">Amy Klobuchar scored an unexpected third-place finish</a>&nbsp;that gives her a road out of New Hampshire as the primary season moves on to the string of state-by-state contests that lie ahead.Elizabeth Warren and Joe Biden posted disappointing fourth and fifth place finishes respectively and were on track to finish with zero delegates from the state.The New Hampshire vote&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9959d184290aa53be08635ab7ddce4ee">gives new clarity</a>&nbsp;to a Democratic contest shaping up to be a battle between two men separated by four decades in age and clashing political ideologies. Sanders is a leading progressive voice, having spent decades demanding substantial government intervention in health care and other sectors of the economy. Buttigieg has pressed for more incremental change, preferring to give Americans the option of retaining their private health insurance while appealing to Republicans and independents who may be dissatisfied with Trump.Their disparate temperaments were on display Tuesday as they spoke before cheering supporters.“We are gonna win because we have the agenda that speaks to the needs of working people across this country,” Sanders declared. “This victory here is the beginning of the end for Donald Trump.”Buttigieg struck an optimistic tone: “Thanks to you, a campaign that some said shouldn’t be here at all has shown that we are here to stay.”Both men have strength heading into the next phase of the campaign, yet they face very different political challenges.While Warren made clear she will remain in the race, Sanders, well-financed and with an ardent army of supporters, has cemented his status as the clear leader of the progressive wing of the party.Meanwhile, Buttigieg must prove he can attract support from voters of color who are critical to winning the nomination. And unlike Sanders, he still has multiple rivals in his own ideological wing of the party to contend with. They include Klobuchar, whose standout debate performance led to a late surge in New Hampshire and a growing national following. While deeply wounded, Biden promises strength in upcoming South Carolina. And though former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg was not on Tuesday’s ballot, he looms next month when the contest reaches states offering hundreds of delegates.After a chaotic beginning to primary voting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6fa91b6c58290a24655c5ae25cdcb184">last week in Iowa</a>, Democrats hoped New Hampshire would help give shape to their urgent quest to pick someone to take on Trump in November. At least two candidates dropped out in the wake of weak finishes Tuesday night: moderate Colorado Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f7b6b5a71ec7dde119f18ba3451814ee">Michael Bennet</a>&nbsp;and political newcomer&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dac9093037af268f867ed697a09d0556">Andrew Yang</a>, who attracted a small but loyal following over the past year and was one of just three candidates of color left in the race.The struggling candidates&nbsp;<a href="https://interactives.ap.org/2020-candidates/" target="_blank">still in the race</a>&nbsp;sought to minimize the latest results.Warren, who spent months as a Democratic front-runner, offered an optimistic outlook as she faced cheering supporters: “Our campaign is built for the long haul, and we are just getting started.”Having already predicted he would “take a hit” in New Hampshire after a distant fourth-place finish in Iowa, Biden essentially ceded the state. He traveled to South Carolina Tuesday as he bet his candidacy on a strong showing there later this month boosted by support from black voters.Still, history suggests that the first-in-the-nation primary will have enormous influence shaping the 2020 race. In the modern era, no Democrat has ever become the party’s general election nominee without finishing first or second in New Hampshire.Sanders and Buttigieg were on track to win the same number of New Hampshire delegates with most of the vote tallied, with Klobuchar a few behind. Warren, Biden and the rest of the field were shut out, failing to reach the 15% threshold needed for delegates.Results from New Hampshire's Democratic primary. (AP Graphic)The AP allocated nine delegates each to Sanders and Buttigieg and six to Klobuchar.The action was on the Democratic side, but Trump easily won New Hampshire’s Republican primary. He was facing token opposition from former Massachusetts Gov. Bill Weld.With most of the vote in, Trump already had amassed more votes in the New Hampshire primary than any incumbent president in history. His vote share was approaching the modern historical high for an incumbent president, 86.43% set by Ronald Reagan in 1984. Weld received about 9% of the vote of New Hampshire Republicans.The political spotlight quickly shifts to Nevada, where Democrats will hold caucuses on Feb. 22. But several candidates, including Warren and Sanders, plan to visit other states in the coming days that vote on Super Tuesday, signaling they are in the race for the long haul.

Sanders edges Buttigieg in NH, giving Dems 2 front-runners

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for help to locate an alleged rape suspect.

Police in Emporia are attempting to locate 19-year-old German Diaz, according to Lyon County Crime Stoppers. He is wanted for multiple warrants including one charging him with rape.

If you have information about Diaz call police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581507958801.png" alt="Diaz photo Lyon County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Diaz photo Lyon County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for help to locate an alleged rape suspect.Police in Emporia are attempting to locate 19-year-old German Diaz, according to Lyon County Crime Stoppers. He is wanted for multiple warrants including one charging him with rape.If you have information about Diaz call police.

Police ask for help to locate alleged Kansas rape suspect

KANSAS CITY&nbsp; (AP) — A federal judge has thrown out a free-speech&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9ea53dc1c74a4bc6bd0d8950a4f20602">lawsuit&nbsp;</a>against a former police detective filed by a man who was arrested while questioning a speaker at the Kansas City Public Library in 2016.

Chief Judge Beth Phillips ruled that Brent Parsons, a Kansas City Police detective at that time, had probable cause to arrest Jeremy Rothe-Kushel. The judge said Parsons also had qualified immunity from civil action.

Rothe-Kushel, of Lawrence, Kansas, was arrested on May 9, 2016, as he questioned Middle East expert and diplomat Dennis Ross. Rothe-Kushel alleged in his lawsuit that his right to free speech was violated by the arrest.

A video of the incident shows Ross answering one of Rothe-Kushel’s questions. When Rothe-Kushel tries to ask another question, a private security guard grabs his arm, followed by Parsons, who was off duty and working for a private firm at the event.

In her order issued in January, Phillips said Rothe-Kushel argued with Ross after his question was answered and continued speaking after a guard told him he was “done" and another person approached the microphone to ask a question.

When Parsons determined Rothe-Kushel should be arrested, Rothe-Kushel pushed back and refused to “give up his hands,” according to police.

Rothe-Kushel was issued citations for trespassing and obstructing or resisting an officer. The citations were ultimately dismissed.

On Tuesday, Rothe-Kushel, 41, said he believed he was arrested and charged because of his political views.

“I believe that this has to do with the rights of all Americans protected under virtually all of the First Amendment,” he said. “This had to do with speech rights, press rights, assembly rights, even religious conscience rights.”

In her order, the judge said Rothe-Kushel said Ross' right to ask questions was “not limitless.”

“He could not ask so many questions that other audience members were deprived of the opportunity,” she wrote, “and he had no right to argue with Ambassador Ross.”

Steve Woolfolk, director of public programming for the library, was also arrested when he tried to intervene. He was charged in Kansas City Municipal Court and later found not guilty of obstruction, interfering with an arrest and assaulting a police officer.

Sgt. Jake Becchina, a Kansas City Police Department spokesman, said the department said could not comment because the plaintiff could appeal. In past statements, police stood by the arrests.

KANSAS CITY&nbsp; (AP) — A federal judge has thrown out a free-speech&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/9ea53dc1c74a4bc6bd0d8950a4f20602">lawsuit&nbsp;</a>against a former police detective filed by a man who was arrested while questioning a speaker at the Kansas City Public Library in 2016.Chief Judge Beth Phillips ruled that Brent Parsons, a Kansas City Police detective at that time, had probable cause to arrest Jeremy Rothe-Kushel. The judge said Parsons also had qualified immunity from civil action.Rothe-Kushel, of Lawrence, Kansas, was arrested on May 9, 2016, as he questioned Middle East expert and diplomat Dennis Ross. Rothe-Kushel alleged in his lawsuit that his right to free speech was violated by the arrest.A video of the incident shows Ross answering one of Rothe-Kushel’s questions. When Rothe-Kushel tries to ask another question, a private security guard grabs his arm, followed by Parsons, who was off duty and working for a private firm at the event.In her order issued in January, Phillips said Rothe-Kushel argued with Ross after his question was answered and continued speaking after a guard told him he was “done" and another person approached the microphone to ask a question.When Parsons determined Rothe-Kushel should be arrested, Rothe-Kushel pushed back and refused to “give up his hands,” according to police.Rothe-Kushel was issued citations for trespassing and obstructing or resisting an officer. The citations were ultimately dismissed.On Tuesday, Rothe-Kushel, 41, said he believed he was arrested and charged because of his political views.“I believe that this has to do with the rights of all Americans protected under virtually all of the First Amendment,” he said. “This had to do with speech rights, press rights, assembly rights, even religious conscience rights.”In her order, the judge said Rothe-Kushel said Ross' right to ask questions was “not limitless.”“He could not ask so many questions that other audience members were deprived of the opportunity,” she wrote, “and he had no right to argue with Ambassador Ross.”Steve Woolfolk, director of public programming for the library, was also arrested when he tried to intervene. He was charged in Kansas City Municipal Court and later found not guilty of obstruction, interfering with an arrest and assaulting a police officer.Sgt. Jake Becchina, a Kansas City Police Department spokesman, said the department said could not comment because the plaintiff could appeal. In past statements, police stood by the arrests.

Judge: Detective had probable cause to make arrest at Kansas City Library

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City man was convicted of killing a Christian missionary from China and wounding two others while high on PCP.

Jurors found Curtrail Hudson, 20, guilty Monday of second-degree murder and five other charges in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/202e492475224211bdd485fc5bba60cc">April 2018</a>&nbsp;shooting that killed 38-year-old Xindong Hao.

Hao had arrived in the city with his wife and four young children shortly before the shooting to join fellow missionaries at the International House of Prayer, an evangelical group whose headquarters is near the neighborhood where Hao was shot. Hao was walking when he encountered Hudson, then 18, who was randomly shooting at people. Two other people were wounded before Hudson was arrested.

Hudson told police he believed Hao was an accomplice of another man he'd been arguing with moments before, according to court records. That man was taken by family to a hospital after suffering wounds in his neck and back.

Hudson then came upon Hao, who was speaking on the phone. Hudson told police he thought he heard Hao say, "He is right here." According to court records and witnesses, Hudson fired several times at Hao, then beat him with the butt of the shotgun.

A third man driving by in a truck saw Hudson shoot Hao, according to police. Hudson then fired at that man, who was grazed by a bullet.

Defense attorney Craig Napier said Hudson smoked a marijuana cigarette without knowing it had been dipped in PCP and was “in a state of psychosis from the drugs.”

Court records show that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e9f37f23100f4324b963328cbaba5e19">a previous guilty plea</a>&nbsp;by Hudson was withdrawn.

He faces up to 50 years in prison when he is sentenced April 24. Napier said he hoped that Hudson would face 20 years, saying that is what jurors indicated that they wanted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581455902609.png" alt="Hudson photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hudson photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City man was convicted of killing a Christian missionary from China and wounding two others while high on PCP.Jurors found Curtrail Hudson, 20, guilty Monday of second-degree murder and five other charges in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/202e492475224211bdd485fc5bba60cc">April 2018</a>&nbsp;shooting that killed 38-year-old Xindong Hao.Hao had arrived in the city with his wife and four young children shortly before the shooting to join fellow missionaries at the International House of Prayer, an evangelical group whose headquarters is near the neighborhood where Hao was shot. Hao was walking when he encountered Hudson, then 18, who was randomly shooting at people. Two other people were wounded before Hudson was arrested.Hudson told police he believed Hao was an accomplice of another man he'd been arguing with moments before, according to court records. That man was taken by family to a hospital after suffering wounds in his neck and back.Hudson then came upon Hao, who was speaking on the phone. Hudson told police he thought he heard Hao say, "He is right here." According to court records and witnesses, Hudson fired several times at Hao, then beat him with the butt of the shotgun.A third man driving by in a truck saw Hudson shoot Hao, according to police. Hudson then fired at that man, who was grazed by a bullet.Defense attorney Craig Napier said Hudson smoked a marijuana cigarette without knowing it had been dipped in PCP and was “in a state of psychosis from the drugs.”Court records show that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/e9f37f23100f4324b963328cbaba5e19">a previous guilty plea</a>&nbsp;by Hudson was withdrawn.He faces up to 50 years in prison when he is sentenced April 24. Napier said he hoped that Hudson would face 20 years, saying that is what jurors indicated that they wanted.

Kansas City man convicted in shooting that killed missionary

KANSAS CITY, KAN.&nbsp;– A federal jury convicted a Kansas man from&nbsp; on drug and firearm charges, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Larry D. Johnson, 33, Kansas City, Kan., was convicted February 7, on one count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

The crimes were alleged to have occurred May 15, 2017, in Wyandotte County, Kansas.

Sentencing is set for May 7. The defendant could face a penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $1 million on the drug charge, not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the charge of using a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other firearm charge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581187759583.png" alt="Johnson photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Johnson photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN.&nbsp;– A federal jury convicted a Kansas man from&nbsp; on drug and firearm charges, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Larry D. Johnson, 33, Kansas City, Kan., was convicted February 7, on one count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.The crimes were alleged to have occurred May 15, 2017, in Wyandotte County, Kansas.Sentencing is set for May 7. The defendant could face a penalty of up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $1 million on the drug charge, not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the charge of using a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and up to 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 on the other firearm charge.

Jury: Kansas man guilty of crack cocaine distribution

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man arrested for a November murder made his first court appearance Monday.

Ricky Price, 45, was formally charged with first-degree murder, theft and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 5p.m. Sunday November 3, police responded to a death call at a residence in the 1300 block of South Greenwood in Wichita, according to office Charley Davidson.

At the scene, a 52-year-old woman reported arriving at the home to check on 73-year-old Raymond Koob and finding him unresponsive inside.

Koob was pronounced deceased on the scene and had extensive injuries to his body.

&nbsp;On Friday, police arrested Price.&nbsp; He is being held on a $250,000 bond. He has previous convictions for theft, robbery, burglary, aggravated robbery and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581354619062.png" alt="Ricky Price photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Ricky Price photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man arrested for a November murder made his first court appearance Monday.Ricky Price, 45, was formally charged with first-degree murder, theft and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 5p.m. Sunday November 3, police responded to a death call at a residence in the 1300 block of South Greenwood in Wichita, according to office Charley Davidson.At the scene, a 52-year-old woman reported arriving at the home to check on 73-year-old Raymond Koob and finding him unresponsive inside.Koob was pronounced deceased on the scene and had extensive injuries to his body.&nbsp;On Friday, police arrested Price.&nbsp; He is being held on a $250,000 bond. He has previous convictions for theft, robbery, burglary, aggravated robbery and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. felon makes first court appearance for November murder 

MARSHALL COUNTY–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal are investigating after a Vermillion man was found dead in his home following an explosion and fire.

On Jan. 24, at approximatley 7:15 a.m., several 911 calls were received reporting an explosion and fire at 301 5th&nbsp;St. in Vermillion, Kan. Emergency crews responded and once the fire was extinguised, they searched the home and located the homeowner, 83-year-old Donald E. McLaughlin, deceased inside.

An autopsy was performed and an investigation into the fire and McLaughlin’s death began. The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office requested KBI assistance on Friday, Feb. 7, when circumstances surrounding McLaughlin’s death appeared suspicious.

Authorities do not believe&nbsp;a threat exists to the public related to this incident. The investigation is ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581461501676.png" alt="Scene of the fatal home explosion and fire photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Scene of the fatal home explosion and fire photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MARSHALL COUNTY–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal are investigating after a Vermillion man was found dead in his home following an explosion and fire.On Jan. 24, at approximatley 7:15 a.m., several 911 calls were received reporting an explosion and fire at 301 5th&nbsp;St. in Vermillion, Kan. Emergency crews responded and once the fire was extinguised, they searched the home and located the homeowner, 83-year-old Donald E. McLaughlin, deceased inside.An autopsy was performed and an investigation into the fire and McLaughlin’s death began. The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office requested KBI assistance on Friday, Feb. 7, when circumstances surrounding McLaughlin’s death appeared suspicious.Authorities do not believe&nbsp;a threat exists to the public related to this incident. The investigation is ongoing.

 KBI assisting in suspicious death investigation after home explosion, fire

First responders on the scene Monday - image courtesy KSHB TV

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A contractor has been seriously injured at a U.S. Service facility in Kansas City while working on a conveyor belt system.

Fire Department Deputy Chief Jimmy Walker said crews responded around 6 p.m. Monday to the facility, extricated the worker from the conveyor belt system and took him to a hospital.

Walker said Tuesday that it appears that the contractor was without oxygen for more than 10 minutes. He said crews were able to regain a pulse but that the contractor's prognosis is ”poor."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581451673619.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>First responders on the scene Monday - image courtesy KSHB TVKANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A contractor has been seriously injured at a U.S. Service facility in Kansas City while working on a conveyor belt system.Fire Department Deputy Chief Jimmy Walker said crews responded around 6 p.m. Monday to the facility, extricated the worker from the conveyor belt system and took him to a hospital.Walker said Tuesday that it appears that the contractor was without oxygen for more than 10 minutes. He said crews were able to regain a pulse but that the contractor's prognosis is ”poor."

Contractor injured on conveyor belt system in Kansas City

WICHITA, Kan. (AP)—The city of Wichita is considering banning plastic bags or implementing a city-wide tax to curb their use. 

The city council voted for a new task force to consider reducing or eliminating single-use plastic bags. 

Either option would make Wichita the first city in Kansas to pass a plastic bag ordinance. 

Other cities in the U.S. have banned plastic bags or imposed taxes on them. The task force is scheduled to meet this month to discuss what such a move could end up costing businesses and the city to implement.&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Wichita is considering banning plastic bags or implementing a city-wide tax to curb their use, officials said.

The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to form a task force to consider how to reduce or eliminate single-use plastic bags in Wichita noting how they’re difficult to recycle and are not biodegradable.

Several other cities in the U.S. have either banned or taxed plastic bags in recent years. San Francisco and Portland have banned plastic bags entirely. Denver imposed a 10-cent tax per bag, while Chicago has a 7-cent bag tax.

Of Kansas’ neighboring states, only Colorado has plastic bag ordinances. Wichita would be the first city in Kansas to ban or tax the use of plastic bags.

City Council member Brandon Johnson said he was surprised by how many people and business support a ban.

“We have a lot of businesses that have already decided not to use plastic bags,” Johnson said. “Kroger reached out and said they would be interested in talking about it.”

The task force, which includes both activists who support taxing or banning the bags and business leaders who would be affected by the changes, is scheduled to meet this month to discuss the legality of the situation and what it could end up costing businesses and the city if a bag ordinance is implemented.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP)—The city of Wichita is considering banning plastic bags or implementing a city-wide tax to curb their use. The city council voted for a new task force to consider reducing or eliminating single-use plastic bags. Either option would make Wichita the first city in Kansas to pass a plastic bag ordinance. Other cities in the U.S. have banned plastic bags or imposed taxes on them. The task force is scheduled to meet this month to discuss what such a move could end up costing businesses and the city to implement.&nbsp;---------WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Wichita is considering banning plastic bags or implementing a city-wide tax to curb their use, officials said.The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to form a task force to consider how to reduce or eliminate single-use plastic bags in Wichita noting how they’re difficult to recycle and are not biodegradable.Several other cities in the U.S. have either banned or taxed plastic bags in recent years. San Francisco and Portland have banned plastic bags entirely. Denver imposed a 10-cent tax per bag, while Chicago has a 7-cent bag tax.Of Kansas’ neighboring states, only Colorado has plastic bag ordinances. Wichita would be the first city in Kansas to ban or tax the use of plastic bags.City Council member Brandon Johnson said he was surprised by how many people and business support a ban.“We have a lot of businesses that have already decided not to use plastic bags,” Johnson said. “Kroger reached out and said they would be interested in talking about it.”The task force, which includes both activists who support taxing or banning the bags and business leaders who would be affected by the changes, is scheduled to meet this month to discuss the legality of the situation and what it could end up costing businesses and the city if a bag ordinance is implemented.

The Latest: Wichita considers banning or taxing plastic bags

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Kansas&nbsp;are investigating whether four overdose cases last weekend involve Oxycodone embedded with fentanyl.&nbsp;

A 19-year-old man died after ingesting the pills, according to Wichita Police. Three other people, ages 16, 27 and 23 required medical assistance after taking the pills.&nbsp;

&nbsp;In 2019, 23 cases were investigated by the Wichita Police Department Special Investigations Bureau (SIB) involving Fentanyl, according to police.

The counterfeit pills appear from their markings to be legitimate Oxycodone pills; however, upon testing, the pills are confirmed to contain Fentanyl instead of the ingredients of authentic Oxycodone.

These pills are 30-50 times more powerful than heroin. Small amounts of Fentanyl are toxic, and people are dying because of ingesting this drug. Even just touching Fentanyl can put you at risk.

The Wichita Police Department reminds the public that any narcotic or prescription drug not purchased with a doctor’s prescription at a legitimate pharmacy should be considered unsafe and could potentially contain Fentanyl or other harmful substances.

If you believe a person has overdosed on Fentanyl, please remember:

• Call 911 immediately;• Administer naloxone (Narcan) right away if available; and• Start rescue breathing.

WPD recognizes the severity of Fentanyl in Wichita and remains committed to addressing the opioid crisis and arresting and prosecuting individuals illegally distributing narcotics. Anyone with information about the illegal use or sale of any drug is encouraged to call WPD SIB detectives at (316) 268-4171, Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111, or the See Something Say Something Hotline at (316) 519-2282. Also, those needing help with a drug addiction should call Sedgwick County COMCARE Addiction Treatment Services at (316) 660-1100.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581438940073.png" alt="Counterfeit Oxycodone -photo courtesy Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Counterfeit Oxycodone -photo courtesy Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Kansas&nbsp;are investigating whether four overdose cases last weekend involve Oxycodone embedded with fentanyl.&nbsp;A 19-year-old man died after ingesting the pills, according to Wichita Police. Three other people, ages 16, 27 and 23 required medical assistance after taking the pills.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2019, 23 cases were investigated by the Wichita Police Department Special Investigations Bureau (SIB) involving Fentanyl, according to police.The counterfeit pills appear from their markings to be legitimate Oxycodone pills; however, upon testing, the pills are confirmed to contain Fentanyl instead of the ingredients of authentic Oxycodone.These pills are 30-50 times more powerful than heroin. Small amounts of Fentanyl are toxic, and people are dying because of ingesting this drug. Even just touching Fentanyl can put you at risk.The Wichita Police Department reminds the public that any narcotic or prescription drug not purchased with a doctor’s prescription at a legitimate pharmacy should be considered unsafe and could potentially contain Fentanyl or other harmful substances.If you believe a person has overdosed on Fentanyl, please remember:• Call 911 immediately;• Administer naloxone (Narcan) right away if available; and• Start rescue breathing.WPD recognizes the severity of Fentanyl in Wichita and remains committed to addressing the opioid crisis and arresting and prosecuting individuals illegally distributing narcotics. Anyone with information about the illegal use or sale of any drug is encouraged to call WPD SIB detectives at (316) 268-4171, Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111, or the See Something Say Something Hotline at (316) 519-2282. Also, those needing help with a drug addiction should call Sedgwick County COMCARE Addiction Treatment Services at (316) 660-1100.

Police find more counterfeit Oxycodone with Fentanyl in Kansas

TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;48-year-old Kansas man who ran away with a 14-year-old girl who he had acted with in a play was sentenced Monday to nearly 10 years in jail for sexually assaulting her.

Michael Fitzgerald, 48, Topeka, was sentenced to nine years and 10 months for six felonies arising from the girl's disappearance in January 2019. He will also have to register as a sex offender.

Fitzgerald met the girl when she was 11, and they later performed in “Elf: The Musical” in 2018 at the Topeka Civic Theater. She was reported missing Jan. 22, 2019. They were found two days later at a hotel in Cortez, Colorado.

He pleaded guilty Dec. 6 to electronic solicitation of a child, indecent liberties with a child, indecent solicitation of a child, aggravated interference with parental custody, contributing to a child's misconduct, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

The girl's private school has expelled her but she told KSNT she hopes to start “a whole new book” in life now that Fitzgerald is behind bars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581382742630.png" alt="Michael Fitzgerald photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Michael Fitzgerald photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;48-year-old Kansas man who ran away with a 14-year-old girl who he had acted with in a play was sentenced Monday to nearly 10 years in jail for sexually assaulting her.Michael Fitzgerald, 48, Topeka, was sentenced to nine years and 10 months for six felonies arising from the girl's disappearance in January 2019. He will also have to register as a sex offender.Fitzgerald met the girl when she was 11, and they later performed in “Elf: The Musical” in 2018 at the Topeka Civic Theater. She was reported missing Jan. 22, 2019. They were found two days later at a hotel in Cortez, Colorado.He pleaded guilty Dec. 6 to electronic solicitation of a child, indecent liberties with a child, indecent solicitation of a child, aggravated interference with parental custody, contributing to a child's misconduct, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child.The girl's private school has expelled her but she told KSNT she hopes to start “a whole new book” in life now that Fitzgerald is behind bars.

Kan. man who ran away with young girl must register as sex offender

Wichita—Police say a homeless man whose body was found under a bridge in Wichita apparently was beaten to death. 

Wichita—Police say a homeless man whose body was found under a bridge in Wichita apparently was beaten to death. The body of a black man was found Monday afternoon under a bridge near Douglas and McLean in Wichita. The man appeared to be in his 60s.Capt. Jason Stephens says the man had blunt force injuries to his body and could have been under the bridge for as long as a day. Authorities are working to learn his identity.This is the seventh homicide in Wichita this year.

Police: Homicide investigation after body found under Kan. bridge

Last Wednesday,&nbsp;the Senate voted to acquit President Trump on both articles of impeachment, putting an end to this embarrassing chapter of American history.&nbsp;I voted “No” when both articles were on the House floor and I am glad that my Senate colleagues saw this for what it was, a complete and total witch hunt.&nbsp;

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell conducted a fair process and I am grateful that he was able to swiftly and efficiently conclude the trial. I am hopeful that with this matter behind us my colleagues across the aisle will start to work with Republicans and the Trump Administration to find solutions to important issues like health care, securing our border, rebuilding our aging infrastructure, and curbing wasteful federal spending.

The day before this historic vote, Laina and I were honored to attend the annual State of the Union address given by President Trump. For years this annual tradition has been an accepted bipartisan practice, and one of the few occasions where all three branches of government gather.&nbsp;

President Trump's speech was one of the best that I can remember. He highlighted his bold plan for the future of America, gave us an update on our booming economy, and payed tribute to many great Americans.&nbsp;

President Trump is keeping his promises to the American people and I look forward to continuing to work with him to strengthen our nation, and further improve the lives of all Americans.

I was proud to represent Kansas and participate in the Congressional Choir to start the annual National Prayer Breakfast. Started in 1953, the National Prayer Breakfast is an annual opportunity to build meaningful relationships across the aisle through fellowship and faith. I was honored to have my wife Laina with me and to hear&nbsp;President Trump speak at the event again. Later in the day,&nbsp;Laina served as a hostess for the Congressional Spouses National Prayer Breakfast Lunch, where she had the opportunity to hear from Maggie Gobran, or "Mama Maggie," a Coptic Orthodox Christian and founder of the non-profit charity Stephen's Children in Cairo, Egypt.

President Trump&nbsp;and&nbsp;USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue recently announced the third and final tranche of 2019 Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments for farmers and ranchers impacted by unjustified trade retaliation.

We have recently celebrated several massive trade wins, which will have a substantial impact on farmers’ bottom lines in 2020. 

But when I am in Kansas I continue to hear about the impacts and hardships facing farmers following multiple years&nbsp;of low commodity prices.&nbsp;The rate will be calculated by the farm’s total plantings of MFP-eligible crops in aggregate in 2019. 

Producers can&nbsp;<a href="https://iqconnect.lmhostediq.com/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=KS01RM&amp;crop=11743.7246573.5134791.53102&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.farmers.gov%2fmanage%2fmfp&amp;redir_log=604883084262239" target="_blank">Click Here</a>&nbsp;to learn what crops are eligible for payment, the per-county non-specialty and specialty crop payment rates, as well as livestock payment rates, I look forward to continue working with the Trump Administration as we push for more market access for Kansas agricultural goods around the world.

The Kansas State University crops team recently won the national championship in crop judging. Teams from K-State have now won the collegiate crops contest championship 17 of the last 21 years.

The team took first place in all three phases of the contest: plant and seed identification, seed analysis, and grain grading. Congratulations to team members - Blake Kirchhoff, Noah Winans, Nate Dick, Madison Tunnell, Alex Kaufmann, Evan Bott, and Trevor Mullen - all of whom are agronomy majors at K-State.

24% of ER visits in Kansas result in at least one surprise bill. Nationally 1 in 6 Americans get a surprise bill from their hospital despite having insurance, this is unacceptable. As a member of the GOP Doctor's Caucus, this is an issue on&nbsp;which we are fighting hard for patients. Surprise billing impacts Kansans of all backgrounds, but especially those working in rural communities.&nbsp;

Friday, the Ranking Member and Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee introduced the Consumer Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills Act of 2020, to provide more transparency for consumers and prevent surprise medical bills that lead to financial hardships for too many American families.&nbsp;This bill is modeled after legislation I helped introduce last year, to rein in air ambulance companies that hit patients with exorbitant service fees.

This week I was honored to receive the&nbsp;National Sorghum Producers&nbsp;(NSP)'s Sorghum Congressional Award for 2019.I represent the largest sorghum producing district in the U.S. and know how important this crop is to our farmers and the role it plays in our nation’s food, fuel, and fiber supply. I have enjoyed working with the NSP and sorghum growers across the Big First district on issues of trade, renewable fuels, and regulatory rollback.I was honored to be presented the award by NSP Chairman&nbsp;Dan Atkisson&nbsp;of Stockton, and NSP Board Member&nbsp;Amy Raynes France&nbsp;of Marienthal.

On Wednesday the House passed&nbsp;the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, which will create a program within the VA to give veterans access to treatment by working with service dogs.

Midwest Battle Buddies is an organization based in Kansas that works with veterans who are suffering from PTSD, or other service-related issues. The veterans are paired with a dog and attend weekly sessions to train them. The weekly meetings also serve as mini therapy sessions as veterans realize they are with others dealing with many of the same issues.

Midwest Battle Buddies has seen the positive impact service dog therapy can have for our veterans. I was glad that I was able to support the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, which will provide additional treatment options for America’s veterans.

I had an opportunity to sit down with&nbsp;Andre Haspels,&nbsp;ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United States, to discuss trade and the economic relationships between the our two countries.Through the Japan trade agreement, phase one of the China deal, and passing of USMCA President Trump has been strengthening our trade position around the globe. I will continue to do everything I can to support this administration as they work to deliver for farmers and ranchers in upcoming negotiations with the European Union.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581355011836.jpeg" alt="In Hays Saturday, First District Rep. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) shows the front page of&nbsp; The Washington Times with the news of Pres. Trump's acquittal. Marshall said the impeachment process "sucked the air out of the room" in Capitol Hill." />
 <figcaption>In Hays Saturday, First District Rep. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) shows the front page of&nbsp; The Washington Times with the news of Pres. Trump's acquittal. Marshall said the impeachment process "sucked the air out of the room" in Capitol Hill.</figcaption>
 </figure>Friends,Last Wednesday,&nbsp;the Senate voted to acquit President Trump on both articles of impeachment, putting an end to this embarrassing chapter of American history.&nbsp;I voted “No” when both articles were on the House floor and I am glad that my Senate colleagues saw this for what it was, a complete and total witch hunt.&nbsp;Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell conducted a fair process and I am grateful that he was able to swiftly and efficiently conclude the trial. I am hopeful that with this matter behind us my colleagues across the aisle will start to work with Republicans and the Trump Administration to find solutions to important issues like health care, securing our border, rebuilding our aging infrastructure, and curbing wasteful federal spending.The day before this historic vote, Laina and I were honored to attend the annual State of the Union address given by President Trump. For years this annual tradition has been an accepted bipartisan practice, and one of the few occasions where all three branches of government gather.&nbsp;President Trump's speech was one of the best that I can remember. He highlighted his bold plan for the future of America, gave us an update on our booming economy, and payed tribute to many great Americans.&nbsp;President Trump is keeping his promises to the American people and I look forward to continuing to work with him to strengthen our nation, and further improve the lives of all Americans.<h2>National Prayer Breakfast</h2>I was proud to represent Kansas and participate in the Congressional Choir to start the annual National Prayer Breakfast. Started in 1953, the National Prayer Breakfast is an annual opportunity to build meaningful relationships across the aisle through fellowship and faith. I was honored to have my wife Laina with me and to hear&nbsp;President Trump speak at the event again. Later in the day,&nbsp;Laina served as a hostess for the Congressional Spouses National Prayer Breakfast Lunch, where she had the opportunity to hear from Maggie Gobran, or "Mama Maggie," a Coptic Orthodox Christian and founder of the non-profit charity Stephen's Children in Cairo, Egypt.<h2>Third Round of MFP Payments Announced</h2>President Trump&nbsp;and&nbsp;USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue recently announced the third and final tranche of 2019 Market Facilitation Program (MFP) payments for farmers and ranchers impacted by unjustified trade retaliation.We have recently celebrated several massive trade wins, which will have a substantial impact on farmers’ bottom lines in 2020. But when I am in Kansas I continue to hear about the impacts and hardships facing farmers following multiple years&nbsp;of low commodity prices.&nbsp;The rate will be calculated by the farm’s total plantings of MFP-eligible crops in aggregate in 2019. Producers can&nbsp;<a href="https://iqconnect.lmhostediq.com/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=KS01RM&amp;crop=11743.7246573.5134791.53102&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.farmers.gov%2fmanage%2fmfp&amp;redir_log=604883084262239" target="_blank">Click Here</a>&nbsp;to learn what crops are eligible for payment, the per-county non-specialty and specialty crop payment rates, as well as livestock payment rates, I look forward to continue working with the Trump Administration as we push for more market access for Kansas agricultural goods around the world.<figure>
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 </figure><h2>K-State Sweeps Championship&nbsp;</h2>The Kansas State University crops team recently won the national championship in crop judging. Teams from K-State have now won the collegiate crops contest championship 17 of the last 21 years.The team took first place in all three phases of the contest: plant and seed identification, seed analysis, and grain grading. Congratulations to team members - Blake Kirchhoff, Noah Winans, Nate Dick, Madison Tunnell, Alex Kaufmann, Evan Bott, and Trevor Mullen - all of whom are agronomy majors at K-State.<h2>Ending Surprise Billing</h2>24% of ER visits in Kansas result in at least one surprise bill. Nationally 1 in 6 Americans get a surprise bill from their hospital despite having insurance, this is unacceptable. As a member of the GOP Doctor's Caucus, this is an issue on&nbsp;which we are fighting hard for patients. Surprise billing impacts Kansans of all backgrounds, but especially those working in rural communities.&nbsp;Friday, the Ranking Member and Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee introduced the Consumer Protections Against Surprise Medical Bills Act of 2020, to provide more transparency for consumers and prevent surprise medical bills that lead to financial hardships for too many American families.&nbsp;This bill is modeled after legislation I helped introduce last year, to rein in air ambulance companies that hit patients with exorbitant service fees.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581354654066.jpeg" alt="National Sorghum Producer&nbsp; Chairman&nbsp;Dan Atkisson, Stockton, presents the 2019 Sorghum Congressional Award to Congressman Marshall." />
 <figcaption>National Sorghum Producer&nbsp; Chairman&nbsp;Dan Atkisson, Stockton, presents the 2019 Sorghum Congressional Award to Congressman Marshall.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Sorghum Congressional Award for 2019</h2>This week I was honored to receive the&nbsp;National Sorghum Producers&nbsp;(NSP)'s Sorghum Congressional Award for 2019.I represent the largest sorghum producing district in the U.S. and know how important this crop is to our farmers and the role it plays in our nation’s food, fuel, and fiber supply. I have enjoyed working with the NSP and sorghum growers across the Big First district on issues of trade, renewable fuels, and regulatory rollback.I was honored to be presented the award by NSP Chairman&nbsp;Dan Atkisson&nbsp;of Stockton, and NSP Board Member&nbsp;Amy Raynes France&nbsp;of Marienthal.<figure>
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 </figure><h2>PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act</h2>On Wednesday the House passed&nbsp;the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, which will create a program within the VA to give veterans access to treatment by working with service dogs.Midwest Battle Buddies is an organization based in Kansas that works with veterans who are suffering from PTSD, or other service-related issues. The veterans are paired with a dog and attend weekly sessions to train them. The weekly meetings also serve as mini therapy sessions as veterans realize they are with others dealing with many of the same issues.Midwest Battle Buddies has seen the positive impact service dog therapy can have for our veterans. I was glad that I was able to support the PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, which will provide additional treatment options for America’s veterans.<figure>
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 </figure><h2>Meeting with the Dutch Ambassador</h2>I had an opportunity to sit down with&nbsp;Andre Haspels,&nbsp;ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the United States, to discuss trade and the economic relationships between the our two countries.Through the Japan trade agreement, phase one of the China deal, and passing of USMCA President Trump has been strengthening our trade position around the globe. I will continue to do everything I can to support this administration as they work to deliver for farmers and ranchers in upcoming negotiations with the European Union.&nbsp;<h2>Dealing with Addiction</h2>Recently the Centers from Disease Control reported that drug overdose deaths dropped 4% nationwide in 2018, but we are not out of the woods yet. Many communities across the U.S. continue to struggle with addiction issues and ways to help their most vulnerable populations. The&nbsp;U.S. Department of Agriculture and&nbsp;U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently published a comprehensive action guide for communities dealing with addition issues.&nbsp;The resource guide includes federal funding opportunities and critical information from lessons learned on the front lines of prevention, treatment, and recovery in rural America.&nbsp;To read the entire guide&nbsp;<a href="https://iqconnect.lmhostediq.com/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=KS01RM&amp;crop=11743.7246573.5134791.53102&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.usda.gov%2fsites%2fdefault%2ffiles%2fdocuments%2frural-community-action-guide.pdf&amp;redir_log=679759732831587" target="_blank">Click Here</a>.

<h2>Working for Taxpayers</h2>As we head into tax season, Stacie James from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) came by the office to give an update on their ongoing work to advocate for taxpayers.&nbsp;TAS is an independent organization within the IRS that is tasked with ensuring every taxpayer is treated fairly and understands their rights. Their office will work directly with citizens to help resolve issues with the IRS, and every year they submit a report to Congress on the most serious problems encountered by taxpayers to help facilitate necessary policy adjustments to the tax code.&nbsp;My staff works closely with their office in Wichita to address complaints from citizens against the IRS and I want to thank Stacie for everything she does for the people of Kansas.&nbsp;To learn more about what TAS can do for you,&nbsp;<a href="https://iqconnect.lmhostediq.com/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=KS01RM&amp;crop=11743.7246573.5134791.53102&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2ftaxpayeradvocate.irs.gov%2f&amp;redir_log=06329611867233" target="_blank">Click Here</a>.

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 </figure><h2>Maintaining the Dignity of Office</h2>At the conclusion of the President’s State of the Union speech, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi purposely and publicly destroyed her copy of the President’s address in a childish display of hate. Speaker Pelosi’s actions were extremely disgraceful and wholly unbecoming of her esteemed position as Speaker of the House. Rule XXIII of the Code of Official Conduct states clearly “A Member, Delegate, Resident Commissioner, officer or employee of the House shall behave at all times in a manner that shall reflect creditably on the House.” There is no question that Speaker Pelosi’s conduct was a blatant violation of this rule.&nbsp;I have co-sponsored two pieces of legislation for a formal censure and condemnation of Speaker Pelosi’s actions, H.Res. 836 and H.Res. 832. As Democratic Leadership continues to use petty gimmicks and political theater to distract and mislead the public, it is our duty to maintain the dignity and decorum of our institutions.