HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt admits that the Title 42 pandemic mechanism to control immigration isn't the preferred way to handle the issue.

"The concept isn't hard," Schmidt said. "You want to have robust immigration into the country, we're a nation of immigrants. We need labor, especially in many parts of Kansas. We need people. But, you want to control who is coming in and make policy choices on how many people can come, when they can come, what purposes they can come, who can come, as opposed to flinging open the door and saying whoever gets across the border is allowed in."

The public health reasons for keeping the border secure are what conservative state attorneys general argue is working for now and reducing what would otherwise be a flood of immigrants.

"We lost in the lower courts," Schmidt said. "We have temporarily won in the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this week when Chief Justice Roberts entered an administrative stay and said, whoa, everybody just pause. Keep Title 42 in place, keep using the baling wire to hold the door closed while we sort out the legalities here. That's the current state of play."

The program was supposed to end Dec. 21, but now it's unclear what will happen. According to <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/3782776-biden-administration-asks-chief-justice-to-allow-title-42-to-end/">The Hill</a>, the government has asked that the policy remain in place until Dec. 27 if Roberts rules before Friday, or give the administration two business days to prepare if the ruling comes after that time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt admits that the Title 42 pandemic mechanism to control immigration isn't the preferred way to handle the issue."The concept isn't hard," Schmidt said. "You want to have robust immigration into the country, we're a nation of immigrants. We need labor, especially in many parts of Kansas. We need people. But, you want to control who is coming in and make policy choices on how many people can come, when they can come, what purposes they can come, who can come, as opposed to flinging open the door and saying whoever gets across the border is allowed in."The public health reasons for keeping the border secure are what conservative state attorneys general argue is working for now and reducing what would otherwise be a flood of immigrants."We lost in the lower courts," Schmidt said. "We have temporarily won in the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this week when Chief Justice Roberts entered an administrative stay and said, whoa, everybody just pause. Keep Title 42 in place, keep using the baling wire to hold the door closed while we sort out the legalities here. That's the current state of play."The program was supposed to end Dec. 21, but now it's unclear what will happen. According to <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/3782776-biden-administration-asks-chief-justice-to-allow-title-42-to-end/">The Hill</a>, the government has asked that the policy remain in place until Dec. 27 if Roberts rules before Friday, or give the administration two business days to prepare if the ruling comes after that time.

Schmidt addresses Title 42 as it remains in effect, for now

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A popular baby chimp born in mid-November at The Sedgwick County Zoo died Thursday morning.

According to a statement from the zoo, "Friends, our hearts are broken. It is with the greatest sadness that we have to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Kucheza, 5-week-old chimpanzee."

Keepers found Kucheza (koo-CHAY-zuh) which means “play” in Swahili, deceased, and cradled in his mother Mahale’s arms, when they arrived at the zoo Thursday morning.

"Mahale is not quite ready to part with him, but when our team is able, a full medical assessment will be done to determine the cause of death."

When the chimp was born, he had to be put on oxygen for a few days. Click below to watch the video, that received national attention, of the moment mother and baby were reunited.

"Mahale’s love for Kucheza was and will continue to be felt by billions of people around the world. In his few short weeks of life, Kucheza brought joy and light to so many, and sparked an opportunity to educate the world about chimpanzees, the dangers they face in the wild, and most importantly - why we should care."

"We’ll continue to share these messages and inspire respect and conservation for Kucheza’s wild counterparts in his honor."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668771125682.png" alt="photo courtesy Sedgwick County zoo" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Sedgwick County zoo</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A popular baby chimp born in mid-November at The Sedgwick County Zoo died Thursday morning.According to a statement from the zoo, "Friends, our hearts are broken. It is with the greatest sadness that we have to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Kucheza, 5-week-old chimpanzee."Keepers found Kucheza (koo-CHAY-zuh) which means “play” in Swahili, deceased, and cradled in his mother Mahale’s arms, when they arrived at the zoo Thursday morning."Mahale is not quite ready to part with him, but when our team is able, a full medical assessment will be done to determine the cause of death."When the chimp was born, he had to be put on oxygen for a few days. Click below to watch the video, that received national attention, of the moment mother and baby were reunited.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=322&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSedgwickCountyZoo%2Fvideos%2F492332559533758%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=1" width="560" height="322" 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>"Mahale’s love for Kucheza was and will continue to be felt by billions of people around the world. In his few short weeks of life, Kucheza brought joy and light to so many, and sparked an opportunity to educate the world about chimpanzees, the dangers they face in the wild, and most importantly - why we should care.""We’ll continue to share these messages and inspire respect and conservation for Kucheza’s wild counterparts in his honor."

Baby chimp who made national headlines dies at Kan. zoo

WASHINGTON—The United State's Senate is working to pass a year-end, $1.7 trillion bill to fund the government. The measure released early Tuesday gives lawmakers a chance to stuff as many priorities as they can into what is likely to be the last major bill of the current Congress.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Kansas junior Senator Roger Marshall, voted against advancing the&nbsp;4,155-page spending plan. Jerry Moran voted with Democrats to advance the bill.

On social media, Marshall criticized many wasteful items included in the budget.

"In the next few months, Americans will be filing their taxes. Their hard-earned money should be going towards providing for their families during this record inflation caused by Joe Biden. Instead, this is what their elected officials will be spending it on: $47 billion deficit spending to fund the war in Ukraine and designates a “Ukrainian Independence Park” in Washington, D.C."&nbsp; For this reason, Marshall did not attend Ukraine President Zelensky's speech before a joint session of congress on Wednesday.

According to Marshall, the bill also includes "$575 million in a global health section allocated for “family planning/reproductive health, including in areas where population growth threatens biodiversity or endangered species.”

"$3.2 billion to continue processing and releasing illegal migrants at a faster pace and larger scale."

"An extra $212.1 million to the Dept. of Justice to further prosecutions Jan. 6 defendants and investigate and charge hundreds more."

"$410 million to "remain available" to reimburse Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia and Oman for "enhanced border security." At least $150 million of that must go to Jordan, according to the bill."

"$3.6 million for a Michelle Obama Trail in Georgia."

"$1.7 billion for ATF to enforce regulations that will take away Americans 2A rights."

"$800 million for grants for liberal cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Chicago to receive illegal aliens."

"$750,000 for “LGBT and Gender Non-Conforming housing” in Albany, New York."

"$370 billion on Green New Deal style handouts to “green” industries."

Congress is racing to complete passage of the plan before a midnight Friday deadline or face the prospect of a partial government shutdown going into the Christmas holiday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660841461588.png" alt="Senator Roger Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Senator Roger Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON—The United State's Senate is working to pass a year-end, $1.7 trillion bill to fund the government. The measure released early Tuesday gives lawmakers a chance to stuff as many priorities as they can into what is likely to be the last major bill of the current Congress.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Kansas junior Senator Roger Marshall, voted against advancing the&nbsp;4,155-page spending plan. Jerry Moran voted with Democrats to advance the bill.On social media, Marshall criticized many wasteful items included in the budget."In the next few months, Americans will be filing their taxes. Their hard-earned money should be going towards providing for their families during this record inflation caused by Joe Biden. Instead, this is what their elected officials will be spending it on: $47 billion deficit spending to fund the war in Ukraine and designates a “Ukrainian Independence Park” in Washington, D.C."&nbsp; For this reason, Marshall did not attend Ukraine President Zelensky's speech before a joint session of congress on Wednesday.According to Marshall, the bill also includes "$575 million in a global health section allocated for “family planning/reproductive health, including in areas where population growth threatens biodiversity or endangered species.”"$3.2 billion to continue processing and releasing illegal migrants at a faster pace and larger scale.""An extra $212.1 million to the Dept. of Justice to further prosecutions Jan. 6 defendants and investigate and charge hundreds more.""$410 million to "remain available" to reimburse Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia and Oman for "enhanced border security." At least $150 million of that must go to Jordan, according to the bill.""$3.6 million for a Michelle Obama Trail in Georgia.""$1.7 billion for ATF to enforce regulations that will take away Americans 2A rights.""$800 million for grants for liberal cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Chicago to receive illegal aliens.""$750,000 for “LGBT and Gender Non-Conforming housing” in Albany, New York.""$370 billion on Green New Deal style handouts to “green” industries."Congress is racing to complete passage of the plan before a midnight Friday deadline or face the prospect of a partial government shutdown going into the Christmas holiday.

Marshall critical of $1.7 trillion spending bill, skips Zelensky speech

DETROIT (AP) — The U.S. government’s road safety agency says it is investigating allegations that Hertz rented vehicles to customers without getting required recall repairs.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says in a document posted Tuesday on its website that it has information indicating Hertz rented Nissan and Ford vehicles with unrepaired safety recalls.

The agency says that would violate the federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act. It has opened an investigation to audit Hertz’s recall record.

Hertz said that it’s reviewing NHTSA’s request for information. “We are committed to providing safe rentals for our customers,” the Florida company said.

NHTSA said Tuesday that it began getting information late last year that Hertz may have rented vehicles with open recalls. “Information gathered by the agency to date, including from vehicle manufacturers, suggests repairs required under multiple NHTSA safety recalls were not made prior to the rental of such affected vehicles to Hertz customers,” the agency said in a prepared statement.

NHTSA says the vehicles are from the 2018 through 2020 model years.

In 2016, Congress passed a transportation bill with a provision that stops companies from renting vehicles unless recall repairs have been made.

The measure was originally named the Raechel and Jacqueline Houck Safe Rental Car Act. The sisters were killed in a 2004 head-on crash when a power steering hose defect in a rented Chrysler PT Cruiser caused a fire and the car went out of control.

The vehicle was rented from Enterprise and had an open safety recall that had not been repaired.

DETROIT (AP) — The U.S. government’s road safety agency says it is investigating allegations that Hertz rented vehicles to customers without getting required recall repairs.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says in a document posted Tuesday on its website that it has information indicating Hertz rented Nissan and Ford vehicles with unrepaired safety recalls.The agency says that would violate the federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act. It has opened an investigation to audit Hertz’s recall record.Hertz said that it’s reviewing NHTSA’s request for information. “We are committed to providing safe rentals for our customers,” the Florida company said.NHTSA said Tuesday that it began getting information late last year that Hertz may have rented vehicles with open recalls. “Information gathered by the agency to date, including from vehicle manufacturers, suggests repairs required under multiple NHTSA safety recalls were not made prior to the rental of such affected vehicles to Hertz customers,” the agency said in a prepared statement.NHTSA says the vehicles are from the 2018 through 2020 model years.In 2016, Congress passed a transportation bill with a provision that stops companies from renting vehicles unless recall repairs have been made.The measure was originally named the Raechel and Jacqueline Houck Safe Rental Car Act. The sisters were killed in a 2004 head-on crash when a power steering hose defect in a rented Chrysler PT Cruiser caused a fire and the car went out of control.The vehicle was rented from Enterprise and had an open safety recall that had not been repaired.

US probes reports that Hertz rented cars with open recalls

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, James Inhofe (OK), and James Lankford (OK), along with U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann, Jake LaTurner, Ron Estes, Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Frank Lucas (OK-03), and Stephanie Bice (OK-05) officially introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Prairie-Chicken-CRA.pdf" target="_blank">Congressional Review Act</a>&nbsp;(CRA) joint resolution of disapproval in their respective chambers to strike down the Biden Administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-moran-rep-mann-condemn-listing-of-lesser-prairie-chicken-as-threatened-species/" target="_blank">recent listing of the lesser prairie-chicken (LPC)</a>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;Endangered Species Act&nbsp;(ESA). If the CRA resolution is enacted, the measure would prevent the listing from having any force or effect, according to a statement from Marshall's office.

<a>“The recent listing of the lesser prairie-chicken is terrible for Kansas’ economy but great for the climate activists who have way too much influence over President Biden. Private property in the LPC range might as well be federal lands if this egregious policy goes into effect,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“While high inflation is the greatest challenge facing our nation, this listing will increase financial difficulties for the Kansans who raise cattle for your hamburgers and drill oil for your gasoline. This President says lowering costs is a priority, but yet again he is making decisions that will do the exact opposite.”</a>

“The decision to list the lesser prairie-chicken as threatened will negatively impact crucial industries in our state and place unnecessary restrictions on farmers, ranchers and energy producers,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Kansas and surrounding states have contributed millions of public and private dollars to successfully conserve the habitat area and increase the population of the bird. Listing of the lesser prairie-chicken will harm our state’s wildlife conservation efforts in the future by removing any incentive for similar local efforts.”

“I was extremely disappointed to learn the Fish and Wildlife Service has decided to list the Lesser Prairie Chicken under the Endangered Species Act (ESA),”&nbsp;Senator Inhofe said. “I have emphasized time and again the harm this listing will have on Americans, especially those in our agriculture and oil and gas industry. The reality is that this listing is also entirely unnecessary due to successful conservation efforts benefiting the LPC and its habitat. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing a resolution that would overturn the unnecessary listing of the LPC under the ESA.”

“The Endangered Species Act is being used as a tool for a federal takeover of energy, agriculture, and commerce in my great state,”&nbsp;said Senator Lankford.&nbsp;“Oklahoma energy, agriculture, and construction companies have cooperated with the federal process to recover the Lesser Prairie Chicken and prevent its listing under the Endangered Species Act. Now Fish &amp; Wildlife is moving to list the Chicken under the Act, which would create new requirements—no longer voluntary—for Oklahomans and other states. I remain opposed to listing the Chicken under the ESA, which is why I’m standing up with our neighbors in Kansas and elsewhere against this rule.”&nbsp;

“I refuse to sit idly by while the United States Fish and Wildlife Service imposes burdensome regulations on producers with no input from Congress,”&nbsp;said Rep. Mann. “The designation of the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened species in places like Kansas is unacceptable. This resolution calls for an absolute refusal of this rule, which should have no force or effect until Congress is consulted. At a time when inflation is at a 40-year high and families are struggling to fuel their cars while keeping food on their tables, we should be working to eliminate barriers for the agriculture and energy sectors, not hamstringing hardworking Americans with government overreach. Since this rule threatens the livelihoods of the men and women who feed, fuel, and clothe us all, I hope that all my colleagues in Congress will join me in refusing to accept it.”&nbsp;

"Agriculture and energy producers in Kansas are already suffering from the Biden Administration's failed policies and burdensome government regulations,"&nbsp;said Rep. LaTurner. "The decision by Washington bureaucrats to designate the lesser prairie-chicken as an endangered species is completely unnecessary as landowner and state-level efforts to restore the LPC habitat have been successful. All this reckless listing will do is create additional red tape making it more difficult for hard-working Kansans to succeed."

"Time and again we've seen the Biden administration assert their overreaching and burdensome regulations on the lives of hardworking Kansans. The recent classification of the lesser prairie-chicken is another example of using Washington bureaucrats to dictate how Kansans live and work. The farmers, ranchers and energy producers of the Midwest have made great strides in conserving our land and protecting our natural resources. Now it's necessary for Congress to rein in these out-of-control regulators and restore the rights of Kansas ranchers and energy producers,"&nbsp;said Rep. Estes.

“Once again, the federal government is playing its 20-year back-and-forth game, re-listing the Lesser Prairie Chicken as “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act,”&nbsp;Rep. Mullin said.&nbsp;“I firmly believe that the radical environmentalists are doing all they can to hinder energy independence and production in Oklahoma. We do not need the federal government interfering in state business — this is not a one size fits all solution. Our farmers, ranchers, and domestic producers deserve better.”

“I am extremely frustrated at the actions of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listing the Lesser Prairie-Chicken under the Endangered Species Act,”&nbsp;said Rep. Lucas. “The Fish and Wildlife Service’s listing of the Lesser Prairie-Chicken creates an unnecessary and burdensome layer of regulation on Oklahoma’s agriculture and oil and gas industry, despite strong conservation efforts by farmers, ranchers, and landowners in Oklahoma and other states. In fact, the extensive conservation measures that were developed by states, landowners, and industry stakeholders has benefited the Lesser Prairie-Chicken and the population of the species has increased by more than 50 percent since the Fish and Wildlife Service began their process. I’m proud to join my colleagues across Oklahoma and Kansas in introducing this legislation to strike down the Biden Administration’s illogical action’s listing the Lesser Prairie-Chicken under the Endangered Species Act.”

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, Jerry Moran, James Inhofe (OK), and James Lankford (OK), along with U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann, Jake LaTurner, Ron Estes, Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Frank Lucas (OK-03), and Stephanie Bice (OK-05) officially introduced a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Prairie-Chicken-CRA.pdf" target="_blank">Congressional Review Act</a>&nbsp;(CRA) joint resolution of disapproval in their respective chambers to strike down the Biden Administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sens-marshall-moran-rep-mann-condemn-listing-of-lesser-prairie-chicken-as-threatened-species/" target="_blank">recent listing of the lesser prairie-chicken (LPC)</a>&nbsp;under the&nbsp;Endangered Species Act&nbsp;(ESA). If the CRA resolution is enacted, the measure would prevent the listing from having any force or effect, according to a statement from Marshall's office.<a>“The recent listing of the lesser prairie-chicken is terrible for Kansas’ economy but great for the climate activists who have way too much influence over President Biden. Private property in the LPC range might as well be federal lands if this egregious policy goes into effect,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“While high inflation is the greatest challenge facing our nation, this listing will increase financial difficulties for the Kansans who raise cattle for your hamburgers and drill oil for your gasoline. This President says lowering costs is a priority, but yet again he is making decisions that will do the exact opposite.”</a>“The decision to list the lesser prairie-chicken as threatened will negatively impact crucial industries in our state and place unnecessary restrictions on farmers, ranchers and energy producers,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Kansas and surrounding states have contributed millions of public and private dollars to successfully conserve the habitat area and increase the population of the bird. Listing of the lesser prairie-chicken will harm our state’s wildlife conservation efforts in the future by removing any incentive for similar local efforts.”“I was extremely disappointed to learn the Fish and Wildlife Service has decided to list the Lesser Prairie Chicken under the Endangered Species Act (ESA),”&nbsp;Senator Inhofe said. “I have emphasized time and again the harm this listing will have on Americans, especially those in our agriculture and oil and gas industry. The reality is that this listing is also entirely unnecessary due to successful conservation efforts benefiting the LPC and its habitat. I am glad to join my colleagues in introducing a resolution that would overturn the unnecessary listing of the LPC under the ESA.”“The Endangered Species Act is being used as a tool for a federal takeover of energy, agriculture, and commerce in my great state,”&nbsp;said Senator Lankford.&nbsp;“Oklahoma energy, agriculture, and construction companies have cooperated with the federal process to recover the Lesser Prairie Chicken and prevent its listing under the Endangered Species Act. Now Fish &amp; Wildlife is moving to list the Chicken under the Act, which would create new requirements—no longer voluntary—for Oklahomans and other states. I remain opposed to listing the Chicken under the ESA, which is why I’m standing up with our neighbors in Kansas and elsewhere against this rule.”&nbsp;“I refuse to sit idly by while the United States Fish and Wildlife Service imposes burdensome regulations on producers with no input from Congress,”&nbsp;said Rep. Mann. “The designation of the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened species in places like Kansas is unacceptable. This resolution calls for an absolute refusal of this rule, which should have no force or effect until Congress is consulted. At a time when inflation is at a 40-year high and families are struggling to fuel their cars while keeping food on their tables, we should be working to eliminate barriers for the agriculture and energy sectors, not hamstringing hardworking Americans with government overreach. Since this rule threatens the livelihoods of the men and women who feed, fuel, and clothe us all, I hope that all my colleagues in Congress will join me in refusing to accept it.”&nbsp;"Agriculture and energy producers in Kansas are already suffering from the Biden Administration's failed policies and burdensome government regulations,"&nbsp;said Rep. LaTurner. "The decision by Washington bureaucrats to designate the lesser prairie-chicken as an endangered species is completely unnecessary as landowner and state-level efforts to restore the LPC habitat have been successful. All this reckless listing will do is create additional red tape making it more difficult for hard-working Kansans to succeed.""Time and again we've seen the Biden administration assert their overreaching and burdensome regulations on the lives of hardworking Kansans. The recent classification of the lesser prairie-chicken is another example of using Washington bureaucrats to dictate how Kansans live and work. The farmers, ranchers and energy producers of the Midwest have made great strides in conserving our land and protecting our natural resources. Now it's necessary for Congress to rein in these out-of-control regulators and restore the rights of Kansas ranchers and energy producers,"&nbsp;said Rep. Estes.“Once again, the federal government is playing its 20-year back-and-forth game, re-listing the Lesser Prairie Chicken as “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act,”&nbsp;Rep. Mullin said.&nbsp;“I firmly believe that the radical environmentalists are doing all they can to hinder energy independence and production in Oklahoma. We do not need the federal government interfering in state business — this is not a one size fits all solution. Our farmers, ranchers, and domestic producers deserve better.”“I am extremely frustrated at the actions of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listing the Lesser Prairie-Chicken under the Endangered Species Act,”&nbsp;said Rep. Lucas. “The Fish and Wildlife Service’s listing of the Lesser Prairie-Chicken creates an unnecessary and burdensome layer of regulation on Oklahoma’s agriculture and oil and gas industry, despite strong conservation efforts by farmers, ranchers, and landowners in Oklahoma and other states. In fact, the extensive conservation measures that were developed by states, landowners, and industry stakeholders has benefited the Lesser Prairie-Chicken and the population of the species has increased by more than 50 percent since the Fish and Wildlife Service began their process. I’m proud to join my colleagues across Oklahoma and Kansas in introducing this legislation to strike down the Biden Administration’s illogical action’s listing the Lesser Prairie-Chicken under the Endangered Species Act.”

Kan. delegation unveils measure nullifying lesser prairie-chicken listing

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just before 11 a.m., Tuesday, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant just west of the city of Odin at 774 NE. 140 Road in northeastern Barton County, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

Deputies gained entry to the single residence and located the occupants, identified as 42-year-old Michael Clark and&nbsp; 41-year-old&nbsp; Dallas Lemonds.

During the course of the investigation, the Sheriff’s Office discovered a substantial amount of controlled substances. Deputies found more than 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, one pound of marijuana, half a pound of suspected Psilocybin mushrooms, as well as prescription medications. 

It is estimated the street value of the controlled substances is in excess of $200,000. Further investigation revealed a stolen GMC truck from Wichita and a stolen riding John Deere lawnmower from Barber County. Firearms were also located inside the residence.

Deputies arrested Clark and Lemonds at the scene and transported them to the Barton County jail on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of hallucinogenic drugs, criminal possession of a firearm, and possession of stolen property. Both are being held in lieu of a $500,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation as well as a detective from the Great Bend Police Department.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671645544590.jpeg" alt="Deputies on the scene of the investigation -photo Sheriff Brian Bellendir" />
 <figcaption>Deputies on the scene of the investigation -photo Sheriff Brian Bellendir</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.Just before 11 a.m., Tuesday, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant just west of the city of Odin at 774 NE. 140 Road in northeastern Barton County, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.Deputies gained entry to the single residence and located the occupants, identified as 42-year-old Michael Clark and&nbsp; 41-year-old&nbsp; Dallas Lemonds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671645596691.jpeg" alt="Michael Clark-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Michael Clark-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the course of the investigation, the Sheriff’s Office discovered a substantial amount of controlled substances. Deputies found more than 12 pounds of suspected methamphetamine, one pound of marijuana, half a pound of suspected Psilocybin mushrooms, as well as prescription medications. It is estimated the street value of the controlled substances is in excess of $200,000. Further investigation revealed a stolen GMC truck from Wichita and a stolen riding John Deere lawnmower from Barber County. Firearms were also located inside the residence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671645626633.jpeg" alt="Dallas Lemonds-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Dallas Lemonds-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies arrested Clark and Lemonds at the scene and transported them to the Barton County jail on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of hallucinogenic drugs, criminal possession of a firearm, and possession of stolen property. Both are being held in lieu of a $500,000 bond, according to Bellendir.The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation as well as a detective from the Great Bend Police Department.&nbsp;

Deputies find drugs with street value of $200K at Kan. home

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration said Wednesday it will release doses of prescription flu medicine from the Strategic National Stockpile to states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-covid-flu-6b5b3a2e04f2c63683e44013e7814177">as flu-sickened patients</a>&nbsp;continue to flock to hospitals and doctors' offices around the country.

This year's flu season has hit hard and early. Some people are even noticing bare shelves at pharmacies and grocery stores when they make a run for over-the-counter medicines as cases have spiked. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that the flu has resulted in 150,000 hospitalizations and 9,300 deaths so far this season.

“Jurisdictions will be able to get the support they need to keep Americans healthy as flu cases rise this winter,” Dawn O’Connell, an assistant secretary for preparedness and response at the Health and Human Services Department, which oversees the CDC, said in a statement.

States will be able to request doses of the prescription flu medication Tamiflu kept in the Strategic National Stockpile from HHS. The administration is not releasing how many doses will be made available. Antiviral medications were released from the stockpile more than a decade ago during the H1N1, also known as swine flu, pandemic.

Last week, the federal agency also announced it would allow states to dip into statewide stockpiles for Tamiflu, making millions of treatment courses available. Tamiflu can be prescribed to treat flu in people over the age of 2 weeks old.

This flu season is coming on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-house-reveals-winter-covid-plans-test-kits-2b015ef4e3c97520a3981c47d00467c3">heels of a nasty spike of RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, cases in children and just as COVID-19 cases are climbing</a>&nbsp;— again.

Spot shortages of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-business-prescription-drugs-children-422dca9684a866ff06bcd537a0dd740d">over-the-counter pain relievers and medicines</a>&nbsp;have been reported at stores around the country, particularly for children.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf hosted conversations Tuesday with leaders representing pharmaceutical companies to discuss how manufacturers are working to keep in-demand remedies available. The companies told the agencies that they are not seeing widespread shortages. Meanwhile, major drug makers like Johnson &amp; Johnson and Perrigo report their production lines are running around the clock.

Pharmacies, however, are limiting purchases of certain medicines, the Associated Press reported Monday. CVS Health, for example, has placed a two-product limit on all children’s pain relief products bought through its pharmacies or online. Walgreens is limiting customers online to six purchases of children’s over-the-counter fever reducing products.

The FDA has not reported a shortage of Tamiflu. However, the federal agency says the prescription antibiotic amoxicillin is in short supply due to increased demand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671488759640.jpeg" alt="A sign is placed near the section for children's medicine, Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022 at a CVS in Greenlawn, N.Y. Caring for a sick child has become even more stressful than usual for many U.S. parents in recent weeks due to shortages of Children’s Tylenol and other medicines. (AP Photo/Leon Keith)" />
 <figcaption>A sign is placed near the section for children's medicine, Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022 at a CVS in Greenlawn, N.Y. Caring for a sick child has become even more stressful than usual for many U.S. parents in recent weeks due to shortages of Children’s Tylenol and other medicines. (AP Photo/Leon Keith)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration said Wednesday it will release doses of prescription flu medicine from the Strategic National Stockpile to states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-covid-flu-6b5b3a2e04f2c63683e44013e7814177">as flu-sickened patients</a>&nbsp;continue to flock to hospitals and doctors' offices around the country.This year's flu season has hit hard and early. Some people are even noticing bare shelves at pharmacies and grocery stores when they make a run for over-the-counter medicines as cases have spiked. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that the flu has resulted in 150,000 hospitalizations and 9,300 deaths so far this season.“Jurisdictions will be able to get the support they need to keep Americans healthy as flu cases rise this winter,” Dawn O’Connell, an assistant secretary for preparedness and response at the Health and Human Services Department, which oversees the CDC, said in a statement.States will be able to request doses of the prescription flu medication Tamiflu kept in the Strategic National Stockpile from HHS. The administration is not releasing how many doses will be made available. Antiviral medications were released from the stockpile more than a decade ago during the H1N1, also known as swine flu, pandemic.Last week, the federal agency also announced it would allow states to dip into statewide stockpiles for Tamiflu, making millions of treatment courses available. Tamiflu can be prescribed to treat flu in people over the age of 2 weeks old.This flu season is coming on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-house-reveals-winter-covid-plans-test-kits-2b015ef4e3c97520a3981c47d00467c3">heels of a nasty spike of RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, cases in children and just as COVID-19 cases are climbing</a>&nbsp;— again.Spot shortages of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-business-prescription-drugs-children-422dca9684a866ff06bcd537a0dd740d">over-the-counter pain relievers and medicines</a>&nbsp;have been reported at stores around the country, particularly for children.HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf hosted conversations Tuesday with leaders representing pharmaceutical companies to discuss how manufacturers are working to keep in-demand remedies available. The companies told the agencies that they are not seeing widespread shortages. Meanwhile, major drug makers like Johnson &amp; Johnson and Perrigo report their production lines are running around the clock.Pharmacies, however, are limiting purchases of certain medicines, the Associated Press reported Monday. CVS Health, for example, has placed a two-product limit on all children’s pain relief products bought through its pharmacies or online. Walgreens is limiting customers online to six purchases of children’s over-the-counter fever reducing products.The FDA has not reported a shortage of Tamiflu. However, the federal agency says the prescription antibiotic amoxicillin is in short supply due to increased demand.___

As flu rages, US releases medicine from national stockpile

ABILENE - At 19 feet 10 ½ inches wide and 13 feet 11 ¼ inches tall (not including the frame),&nbsp; the World’s Largest Belt Buckle is now at home in Abilene, according to a media release from the convention and visitor's bureau. Unveiled Wednesday at noon at Eisenhower Park, the project serves as a billboard celebrating Abilene.

Designed by local artist, Jason Lahr, Fluter’s Creek Metal Works, the buckle features Dwight D. Eisenhower, Wild Bill Hickok, Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, Historic Seelye Mansion, C.W. Parker carousel horse, C.L. Brown telephone, a racing Greyhound and Chisholm Trail longhorn inlaid with blue quartz.

The buckle is a project of the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau which hopes the new roadside attraction will entice travelers to stop and visit the Best Historic Small Town.

“Whether you enjoy Cowboy history, art, fun photo opportunities or the world’s largest things, make sure to add the World’s Largest Belt Buckle to your Kansas I-70 road trip,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau director.

The project is funded by a Kansas Tourism Attraction Development Grant and from donations from 100 businesses and individuals. The buckle garnered nationwide attention when Jefferson White, a.k.a. “Jimmy” from the hit tv show Yellowstone shared about the project.

Earlier this month,&nbsp;True West Magazine&nbsp;also named Abilene the recipient of its Readers’ Choice Best Promotion of a Historic Place award.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671677531948.jpeg" alt="The World's Largest Belt Buckle in Abilene. Photo courtesy Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau" />
 <figcaption>The World's Largest Belt Buckle in Abilene. Photo courtesy Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE - At 19 feet 10 ½ inches wide and 13 feet 11 ¼ inches tall (not including the frame),&nbsp; the World’s Largest Belt Buckle is now at home in Abilene, according to a media release from the convention and visitor's bureau. Unveiled Wednesday at noon at Eisenhower Park, the project serves as a billboard celebrating Abilene.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aiNrPmm7vJQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Designed by local artist, Jason Lahr, Fluter’s Creek Metal Works, the buckle features Dwight D. Eisenhower, Wild Bill Hickok, Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, Historic Seelye Mansion, C.W. Parker carousel horse, C.L. Brown telephone, a racing Greyhound and Chisholm Trail longhorn inlaid with blue quartz.The buckle is a project of the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau which hopes the new roadside attraction will entice travelers to stop and visit the Best Historic Small Town.“Whether you enjoy Cowboy history, art, fun photo opportunities or the world’s largest things, make sure to add the World’s Largest Belt Buckle to your Kansas I-70 road trip,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau director.The project is funded by a Kansas Tourism Attraction Development Grant and from donations from 100 businesses and individuals. The buckle garnered nationwide attention when Jefferson White, a.k.a. “Jimmy” from the hit tv show Yellowstone shared about the project.Earlier this month,&nbsp;True West Magazine&nbsp;also named Abilene the recipient of its Readers’ Choice Best Promotion of a Historic Place award.

Abilene now home to world's largest belt buckle

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a body found in rural Shawnee County.

On Wednesday, officials with the Douglas County Nebraska Sheriff's office contacted the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office for assistance, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Just before 3pm, law enforcement officers with the Shawnee County Criminal Investigations Division began an investigation in the 2200 block of SW 57th Street

 A search warrant was executed. A deceased human body was discovered. Authorities have not made a positive identification of the body, according to Christian. The Topeka Police Department and Shawnee County Coroner’s Office are assisting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671675110683.png" alt="Photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a body found in rural Shawnee County.On Wednesday, officials with the Douglas County Nebraska Sheriff's office contacted the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office for assistance, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Just before 3pm, law enforcement officers with the Shawnee County Criminal Investigations Division began an investigation in the 2200 block of SW 57th Street<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671675092235.png" alt="Photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure> A search warrant was executed. A deceased human body was discovered. Authorities have not made a positive identification of the body, according to Christian. The Topeka Police Department and Shawnee County Coroner’s Office are assisting.

Sheriff: Authorities work to ID body found in rural Kansas 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Momentum toward passing a $1.7 trillion government funding bill with more aid for Ukraine slowed considerably Wednesday as lawmakers struggled to reach an agreement on amendments needed to get to a final vote and avoid a partial government shutdown at midnight Friday.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the Senate was making progress, but lawmakers exited the chamber late in the evening looking glum and talking of a standoff.

“This bill is hanging by a thread," said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del.

At issue is a proposed amendment from Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, seeking to extend pandemic-era restrictions on asylum seekers at the border, also referred to as Title 42.

“Sen. Schumer doesn't want to have a vote on Title 42 because he presumably knows it will pass," Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said. But the House won't go along, he said, and “everything falls apart."

The impasse came just hours after Ukrainian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-68c65b3274e552f36f16853f24fedbb9?utm_source=apnews&amp;utm_medium=featuredcard&amp;utm_campaign=leadsubstory_01">President Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;sought to assure lawmakers during a joint meeting of Congress that the aid the U.S. is providing was much appreciated and could “speed up our victory.” He projected confidence throughout and even told lawmakers in his closing: “Merry Christmas and a happy victorious New Year."

“Your money is not charity. It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way,” Zelenskyy said.

The measure includes $44.9 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine and NATO allies, above even President Joe Biden’s request, and ensures that funding flows to the war effort for months to come. The measure would also boost U.S. defense spending by about 10% to $858 billion, addressing concerns from some lawmakers that more investment in the nation's military is needed to ensure America's security.

Schumer’s hope was that the chamber would approve the bill as soon as Wednesday night, but several lawmakers exited the chamber saying they didn't expect any more votes that night. Once the Senate votes, the House will then have to take it up and pass the measure before midnight Friday to avoid a partial-government shutdown.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., emerged from a late-night meeting in Schumer's office saying she was optimistic “about putting together a path" that would lead to the bill's passage in the Senate on Thursday.

Schumer and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., took to the floor Wednesday morning urging colleagues to vote for the measure, though they emphasized different priorities.

Schumer said the worst thing Congress could do now is give Russian President Vladimir Putin any signal that the U.S. was wavering in its commitment to defend Ukraine.

He doubled down on that message in the evening, saying he had just met with Zelenskyy.

“He made it clear that without this aid package, the Ukrainians will be in real trouble and could even lose the war," Schumer said. “So that makes the urgency of getting this legislation done all the more important."

McConnell is facing pushback from many Republicans who don't support the spending bill and resent being forced to vote on such a massive package with so little time before a potential shutdown and the Christmas holiday. He highlighted the bill's spending boost for defense and said that non-defense spending, when excluding a big boost for veterans health care, would increase below the rate of inflation.

“If Republicans controlled this chamber, we would have handled the appropriations process entirely differently from top to bottom," McConnell said. “But given the reality of where we stand today, senators have two options this week, just two: we will either give our Armed Forces the resources and the certainty that they need, or we will deny it to them."

The bill, which runs for 4,155 pages, includes about $772.5 billion for non-defense, discretionary programs and $858 billion for defense and would finance agencies through September.

Lawmakers worked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-3e0fef206f524f6b1b67f7c36178a688">stuff as many priorities</a>&nbsp;as they could into the sprawling package, likely the last major bill of the current Congress. That includes $27 billion in disaster funding to help communities recovering from disasters and extreme weather events as well as an overhaul of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-susan-collins-west-virginia-c9c15562ad910bbc0ba6ef1eecbfc158">federal election law</a>&nbsp;that aims to prevent any future presidents or presidential candidates from trying to overturn an election.

The bipartisan electoral overhaul was a direct response to former President Donald Trump’s efforts to convince Republican lawmakers and then-Vice President Mike Pence to object to the certification of Biden’s victory on Jan. 6, 2021.

The spending bill also contains scores of policy changes that lawmakers worked furiously to include to avoid having to start over in the new Congress next year.

Examples include a provision from Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-politics-d33e58c76bb3c13297c72816ef4e6231">that bans TikTok</a>&nbsp;on government cell phones due to security concerns. Another provision supported by the Maine delegation was added to aid the state's lobster and Jonah crab fisheries, delaying regulations proposed to help save endangered North Atlantic right whales. And, on the health care front, the bill requires states to keep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-covid-304d921beee43d29f1862cd4d6ab5297">children enrolled in Medicaid</a>&nbsp;on coverage for at least a year, which advocates say increases access to preventative care.

However, millions who enrolled in the health care program for low-income Americans could start to lose coverage on April 1 because the bill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-covid-304d921beee43d29f1862cd4d6ab5297">sunsets a requirement</a>&nbsp;of the COVID-19 public health emergency that prohibited states from booting people off Medicaid.

The bill also provides roughly $15.3 billion for more than 7,200 projects that lawmakers sought for their home states and districts. Under revamped rules for community project funding, also referred to as earmarks, lawmakers must post their requests online and attest they have no financial interest in the projects. Still, many fiscal conservatives criticize the earmarking as leading to unnecessary spending.

Some Republican senators are raising objections to the measure, not only because the amount of spending but because of Congress's habit of placing 12 separate appropriations bills into one massive package long after the fiscal year has begun and just before critical deadlines approach.

“Giving us a bill at 1:28 in the morning, that's over 4,000 pages, that nobody will have an opportunity to read, that we'll have no idea what's in it, is not the way to run your personal life, your business life or your government," said Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla. “This has to stop."

House Republicans, including Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., likely the next speaker of the House, are encouraging their colleagues in the Senate to only support a short-term extension. That way, they would have more ability to shape the legislation. McCarthy spoke to senators during their caucus lunch Wednesday. A notice sent by GOP leadership to House members urged them to vote against the measure when it comes to the House.

“This deal is designed to sideline the incoming Republican House Majority by extending many programs for multiple years and providing large funding increases for Democrat priorities on top of the exorbitant spending that has already been appropriated this year," the notice stated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671577993523.png" alt="At issue is a proposed amendment from Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, seeking to extend pandemic-era restrictions on asylum seekers at the border, also referred to as Title 42. - photo courtesy Rep. Tony Gonzales" />
 <figcaption>At issue is a proposed amendment from Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, seeking to extend pandemic-era restrictions on asylum seekers at the border, also referred to as Title 42. - photo courtesy Rep. Tony Gonzales</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Momentum toward passing a $1.7 trillion government funding bill with more aid for Ukraine slowed considerably Wednesday as lawmakers struggled to reach an agreement on amendments needed to get to a final vote and avoid a partial government shutdown at midnight Friday.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the Senate was making progress, but lawmakers exited the chamber late in the evening looking glum and talking of a standoff.“This bill is hanging by a thread," said Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del.At issue is a proposed amendment from Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, seeking to extend pandemic-era restrictions on asylum seekers at the border, also referred to as Title 42.“Sen. Schumer doesn't want to have a vote on Title 42 because he presumably knows it will pass," Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said. But the House won't go along, he said, and “everything falls apart."The impasse came just hours after Ukrainian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-biden-68c65b3274e552f36f16853f24fedbb9?utm_source=apnews&amp;utm_medium=featuredcard&amp;utm_campaign=leadsubstory_01">President Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>&nbsp;sought to assure lawmakers during a joint meeting of Congress that the aid the U.S. is providing was much appreciated and could “speed up our victory.” He projected confidence throughout and even told lawmakers in his closing: “Merry Christmas and a happy victorious New Year."“Your money is not charity. It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way,” Zelenskyy said.The measure includes $44.9 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine and NATO allies, above even President Joe Biden’s request, and ensures that funding flows to the war effort for months to come. The measure would also boost U.S. defense spending by about 10% to $858 billion, addressing concerns from some lawmakers that more investment in the nation's military is needed to ensure America's security.Schumer’s hope was that the chamber would approve the bill as soon as Wednesday night, but several lawmakers exited the chamber saying they didn't expect any more votes that night. Once the Senate votes, the House will then have to take it up and pass the measure before midnight Friday to avoid a partial-government shutdown.Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., emerged from a late-night meeting in Schumer's office saying she was optimistic “about putting together a path" that would lead to the bill's passage in the Senate on Thursday.Schumer and Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., took to the floor Wednesday morning urging colleagues to vote for the measure, though they emphasized different priorities.Schumer said the worst thing Congress could do now is give Russian President Vladimir Putin any signal that the U.S. was wavering in its commitment to defend Ukraine.He doubled down on that message in the evening, saying he had just met with Zelenskyy.“He made it clear that without this aid package, the Ukrainians will be in real trouble and could even lose the war," Schumer said. “So that makes the urgency of getting this legislation done all the more important."McConnell is facing pushback from many Republicans who don't support the spending bill and resent being forced to vote on such a massive package with so little time before a potential shutdown and the Christmas holiday. He highlighted the bill's spending boost for defense and said that non-defense spending, when excluding a big boost for veterans health care, would increase below the rate of inflation.“If Republicans controlled this chamber, we would have handled the appropriations process entirely differently from top to bottom," McConnell said. “But given the reality of where we stand today, senators have two options this week, just two: we will either give our Armed Forces the resources and the certainty that they need, or we will deny it to them."The bill, which runs for 4,155 pages, includes about $772.5 billion for non-defense, discretionary programs and $858 billion for defense and would finance agencies through September.Lawmakers worked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ap-top-news-3e0fef206f524f6b1b67f7c36178a688">stuff as many priorities</a>&nbsp;as they could into the sprawling package, likely the last major bill of the current Congress. That includes $27 billion in disaster funding to help communities recovering from disasters and extreme weather events as well as an overhaul of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-susan-collins-west-virginia-c9c15562ad910bbc0ba6ef1eecbfc158">federal election law</a>&nbsp;that aims to prevent any future presidents or presidential candidates from trying to overturn an election.The bipartisan electoral overhaul was a direct response to former President Donald Trump’s efforts to convince Republican lawmakers and then-Vice President Mike Pence to object to the certification of Biden’s victory on Jan. 6, 2021.The spending bill also contains scores of policy changes that lawmakers worked furiously to include to avoid having to start over in the new Congress next year.Examples include a provision from Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-politics-d33e58c76bb3c13297c72816ef4e6231">that bans TikTok</a>&nbsp;on government cell phones due to security concerns. Another provision supported by the Maine delegation was added to aid the state's lobster and Jonah crab fisheries, delaying regulations proposed to help save endangered North Atlantic right whales. And, on the health care front, the bill requires states to keep&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-covid-304d921beee43d29f1862cd4d6ab5297">children enrolled in Medicaid</a>&nbsp;on coverage for at least a year, which advocates say increases access to preventative care.However, millions who enrolled in the health care program for low-income Americans could start to lose coverage on April 1 because the bill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-covid-304d921beee43d29f1862cd4d6ab5297">sunsets a requirement</a>&nbsp;of the COVID-19 public health emergency that prohibited states from booting people off Medicaid.The bill also provides roughly $15.3 billion for more than 7,200 projects that lawmakers sought for their home states and districts. Under revamped rules for community project funding, also referred to as earmarks, lawmakers must post their requests online and attest they have no financial interest in the projects. Still, many fiscal conservatives criticize the earmarking as leading to unnecessary spending.Some Republican senators are raising objections to the measure, not only because the amount of spending but because of Congress's habit of placing 12 separate appropriations bills into one massive package long after the fiscal year has begun and just before critical deadlines approach.“Giving us a bill at 1:28 in the morning, that's over 4,000 pages, that nobody will have an opportunity to read, that we'll have no idea what's in it, is not the way to run your personal life, your business life or your government," said Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla. “This has to stop."House Republicans, including Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., likely the next speaker of the House, are encouraging their colleagues in the Senate to only support a short-term extension. That way, they would have more ability to shape the legislation. McCarthy spoke to senators during their caucus lunch Wednesday. A notice sent by GOP leadership to House members urged them to vote against the measure when it comes to the House.“This deal is designed to sideline the incoming Republican House Majority by extending many programs for multiple years and providing large funding increases for Democrat priorities on top of the exorbitant spending that has already been appropriated this year," the notice stated.

Fight over immigration puts $1.7 trillion spending bill in jeopardy

CASS COUNTY —Two inmates who escaped Dec. 12 from&nbsp;the jail in Cass County, Missouri south of Kansas City are still missing, according to the FBI.

The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $5,000 each for information that leads directly to the capture of 33-year-old Trevor Sparks and 43-year-old Sergio Perez- Martinez. The FBI is offering $10k each to anyone who can provide information leading to the capture of&nbsp; Martinez or Sparks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Perez-Martinez of Panorama City, California and Sparks of Kansas City escaped on Monay. Authorities did not know they were missing until Tuesday.

Perez Mertinez&nbsp; was being held for possession of dangerous drugs. Sparks was jailed on money laundering charges, according to the sheriff's office.

A third individual, Steven Lydell Williams, Sr., 64, Kansas City, has been charged&nbsp; with aiding or assisting in the escape.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Cass County Sheriff’s Office at (816) 380-5200, or call 911.&nbsp; Submit a tip to the Marshals<a href="https://www.usmarshals.gov/tips/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR2np8V0SoqQyr6Znkz_ykiw2FsK7SY3PkQN_uuUCJz41bCD_XDGusIXZJw"> here</a>&nbsp; or contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at <a href="https://t.co/49eEgggFOb" target="_blank">http://tips.fbi.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670539649262.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CASS COUNTY —Two inmates who escaped Dec. 12 from&nbsp;the jail in Cass County, Missouri south of Kansas City are still missing, according to the FBI.The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $5,000 each for information that leads directly to the capture of 33-year-old Trevor Sparks and 43-year-old Sergio Perez- Martinez. The FBI is offering $10k each to anyone who can provide information leading to the capture of&nbsp; Martinez or Sparks.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670539680558.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Perez-Martinez of Panorama City, California and Sparks of Kansas City escaped on Monay. Authorities did not know they were missing until Tuesday.Perez Mertinez&nbsp; was being held for possession of dangerous drugs. Sparks was jailed on money laundering charges, according to the sheriff's office.A third individual, Steven Lydell Williams, Sr., 64, Kansas City, has been charged&nbsp; with aiding or assisting in the escape. Anyone with any information is urged to contact the Cass County Sheriff’s Office at (816) 380-5200, or call 911.&nbsp; Submit a tip to the Marshals<a href="https://www.usmarshals.gov/tips/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR2np8V0SoqQyr6Znkz_ykiw2FsK7SY3PkQN_uuUCJz41bCD_XDGusIXZJw"> here</a>&nbsp; or contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at <a href="https://t.co/49eEgggFOb" target="_blank">http://tips.fbi.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Search continues, reward offered for 2 KC-area fugitives

SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday in Saline County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Mazda Tribute driven by Sawyer B.&nbsp;Lysell-Alkire, 16, Lindsborg, was southbound on Interstate 135 at the Lindsborg exit. 

The SUV entered the west ditch, overturned and came to rest on its top.

A passenger identified as 21-year-old Grant L.&nbsp;Lysell-Alkire was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Christian's Funeral Home. EMS transported Sawyer&nbsp;Lysell-Alkire to Salina Regional Health Center. They were both properly retrained, according to the KHP.

SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday in Saline County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Mazda Tribute driven by Sawyer B.&nbsp;Lysell-Alkire, 16, Lindsborg, was southbound on Interstate 135 at the Lindsborg exit. The SUV entered the west ditch, overturned and came to rest on its top.A passenger identified as 21-year-old Grant L.&nbsp;Lysell-Alkire was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Christian's Funeral Home. EMS transported Sawyer&nbsp;Lysell-Alkire to Salina Regional Health Center. They were both properly retrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after SUV rollover accident

WICHITA, KAN.– A federal jury convicted a former member of the Kansas legislature of defrauding federal and state agencies by a total of $355,550 in COVIID-19 business recovery funds, according to the United State's Attorney.

Michael Capps, 44, of Wichita was found guilty of submitting false and fraudulent documents on behalf of his companies to Emprise Bank for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans, as well as to the Kansas Department of Commerce for Small Business Working Capital grants.

The jury convicted Capps of false statement to a bank for a PPP loan,&nbsp; count of bank fraud – PPP loan, two counts of false statement to the SBA for EIDL loan,&nbsp;two counts of wire fraud SBA,,&nbsp;&nbsp;two counts of wire fraud Kansas Department of Commerce and four counts of money laundering.

Capps represented Kansas House District 85 that includes portions of Sedgwick and Butler Counties from August of 2018-to January of 2021.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581011016098.png" alt="Former State Rep. Michael Capps-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Former State Rep. Michael Capps-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN.– A federal jury convicted a former member of the Kansas legislature of defrauding federal and state agencies by a total of $355,550 in COVIID-19 business recovery funds, according to the United State's Attorney.Michael Capps, 44, of Wichita was found guilty of submitting false and fraudulent documents on behalf of his companies to Emprise Bank for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans, as well as to the Kansas Department of Commerce for Small Business Working Capital grants.The jury convicted Capps of false statement to a bank for a PPP loan,&nbsp; count of bank fraud – PPP loan, two counts of false statement to the SBA for EIDL loan,&nbsp;two counts of wire fraud SBA,,&nbsp;&nbsp;two counts of wire fraud Kansas Department of Commerce and four counts of money laundering.Capps represented Kansas House District 85 that includes portions of Sedgwick and Butler Counties from August of 2018-to January of 2021.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office investigated the case.

Former Kan. lawmaker guilty of $355K COVID relief fraud

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Three northeast Saline County residents were arrested and five children were removed from their custody after an alleged incident that was reported on Tuesday.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that sheriff's office personnel responded Tuesday after a trusted adult reported an incident that allegedly happened on Sunday at a residence in the 2600 block of E. Shipton Road.

"Originally, the deputy went out and took the call, and realized it was going to be something other than just a simple battery case, so he got our investigators involved with that," Melander said.

Saline County Sheriff's Investigator Kody Trower said the incident was originally reported to the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department, which turned it over to Saline County because the location of the alleged incident was within Saline County.

Trower said one of the five children reported the alleged incident to a trusted adult on Tuesday. After hearing the allegations from the child, sheriff's office personnel were required to take into protective custody the other four children at the residence. All of the children are now in the custody of other family members, he said.

As a result of the investigation into the allegations, three adults were arrested on the following requested charges, according to Melander.

Shawn McHone, 48, of the residence in rural Saline County is being held on requested charges of Battery and Indecent liberties with a child

Falon R. McHone, 40, of the residence in rural Saline County is being held on requested charges of Criminal threat and Abuse of a child.

Lindsey N. Whisenhunt, 26, of the residence in rural Saline Count is jailed on requested charges of Assault and Aggravated battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671634824930.jpeg" alt="Shawn D. McHone- Photo Saline County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shawn D. McHone- Photo Saline County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostThree northeast Saline County residents were arrested and five children were removed from their custody after an alleged incident that was reported on Tuesday.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that sheriff's office personnel responded Tuesday after a trusted adult reported an incident that allegedly happened on Sunday at a residence in the 2600 block of E. Shipton Road."Originally, the deputy went out and took the call, and realized it was going to be something other than just a simple battery case, so he got our investigators involved with that," Melander said.Saline County Sheriff's Investigator Kody Trower said the incident was originally reported to the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department, which turned it over to Saline County because the location of the alleged incident was within Saline County.Trower said one of the five children reported the alleged incident to a trusted adult on Tuesday. After hearing the allegations from the child, sheriff's office personnel were required to take into protective custody the other four children at the residence. All of the children are now in the custody of other family members, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671634677950.jpeg" alt="Falon R. McHone-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Falon R. McHone-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result of the investigation into the allegations, three adults were arrested on the following requested charges, according to Melander.Shawn McHone, 48, of the residence in rural Saline County is being held on requested charges of Battery and Indecent liberties with a childFalon R. McHone, 40, of the residence in rural Saline County is being held on requested charges of Criminal threat and Abuse of a child.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671635110855.jpeg" alt="Lindsey N. Whisenhunt-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Lindsey N. Whisenhunt-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Lindsey N. Whisenhunt, 26, of the residence in rural Saline Count is jailed on requested charges of Assault and Aggravated battery.

Sheriff: 5 children removed from Kan. home, 3 adults in custody

WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy told cheering U.S. legislators during a defiant wartime visit to the nation’s capital on Wednesday that against all odds his country still stands, thanking Americans for helping to fund the war effort with money that is “not charity,” but an “investment” in global security and democracy.

(Click below to watch a replay of the address)

The whirlwind stop in Washington — his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February — was aimed at reinvigorating support for his country in the U.S. and around the world at a time when there is concern that allies are growing weary of the costly war and its disruption to global food and energy supplies.

Zelenskyy called the tens of billions of dollars in U.S. military and economic assistance provided over the past year vital to Ukraine’s efforts to beat back Russia and appealed for even more in the future.

“Your money is not charity,” he sought to reassure both those in the room and those watching at home. “It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way.”

Just before his arrival, the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-80ae774f3b7cbb3e1b88d1b728961079">announced a new $1.8 billion military aid package</a>, including for the first time&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-b90ce5a55b1f6b820d03da96612b3796">Patriot surface-to-air missiles</a>. And Congress planned to vote this week on a fresh spending package that includes about $45 billion in additional emergency assistance to Ukraine.

The speech to Congress came after President Joe Biden hosted Zelenskyy in the Oval Office for strategy consultations, saying the U.S. and Ukraine would maintain their “united defense” as Russia wages a “brutal assault on Ukraine’s right to exist as a nation.” Biden pledged to help bring about a “just peace.”

Zelenskyy told Biden that he had wanted to visit sooner and his visit now demonstrates that the “situation is under control, because of your support.”

The highly sensitive trip came after 10 months of a brutal war that has seen tens of thousands of casualties on both sides and devastation for Ukrainian civilians.

Zelenskyy traveled to Washington aboard a U.S. Air Force jet. The visit had been long sought by both sides, but the right conditions only came together in the last 10 days, U.S. officials said, after high-level discussions about the security both of Zelenskyy and of his people while he was outside of Ukraine. Zelenskyy spent less than 10 hours in Washington before beginning the journey back to Ukraine.

In his remarks to lawmakers, Zelenskky harked back to U.S. victories in the Battle of the Bulge, a turning point against Nazi Germany in World War II, and the Revolutionary War Battle of Saratoga, an American victory that helped draw France’s aid for U.S. independence. The Ukrainian leader predicted that next year would be a “turning point” in the conflict, “when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom — the freedom of people who stand for their values.”

Zelenskyy received thunderous applause from members of Congress and presented lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag autographed by front-line troops in Bakhmut, in Ukraine’s contested Donetsk province. The flag was displayed behind him on the rostrum by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris. Pelosi, in turn, presented Zelenskyy with an American flag that had flown over the Capitol that day, and Zelenskyy pumped it up and down as he exited the chamber.

Declaring in his speech that Ukraine “will never surrender,” Zelenskyy warned that the stakes of the conflict were greater than just the fate of his nation — that democracy worldwide is being tested.

“This battle cannot be ignored, hoping that the ocean or something else will provide protection,” he said, speaking in English for what he had billed as a “speech to Americans.”

Earlier, in a joint news conference with Biden, Zelenskyy was pressed on how Ukraine would try to bring an end to the conflict. He rejected Biden’s framing of finding a “just peace,” saying, “For me as a president, ‘just peace’ is no compromises.” He said the war would end once Ukraine’s sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity were restored, and Russia had paid back Ukraine for all the damage inflicted by its forces.

“There can’t be any ‘just peace’ in the war that was imposed on us,” he added.

Biden, for his part, said Russia was “trying to use winter as a weapon, but Ukrainian people continue to inspire the world." During the news conference, he said Russian President Vladimir Putin had “no intention of stopping this cruel war.”

The two leaders appeared to share a warm rapport, laughing at each other's comments and patting each other on the back throughout the visit, though Zelenskyy made clear he will continue to press Biden and other Western leaders for ever more support.

He said that after the Patriot system was up and running, “we will send another signal to President Biden that we would like to get more Patriots."

“We are in the war," Zelenskyy added with a smile, as Biden chuckled at the direct request. “I’m sorry. I’m really sorry."

Biden told Zelenskyy that it was “important for the American people, and for the world, to hear directly from you, Mr. President, about Ukraine’s fight, and the need to continue to stand together through 2023."

Zelenskyy had headed to Washington after making&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-kyiv-9b7d42d3897185c0ecff222e5149e4ea">a daring and dangerous trip</a>&nbsp;Tuesday to what he called the hottest spot on the 1,300-kilometer (800-mile) front line of the war, the city of Bakhmut.

Poland’s private broadcaster, TVN24, said Zelenskyy crossed into Poland early Wednesday on his way to Washington. The station showed footage of what appeared to be Zelenskyy arriving at a train station and being escorted to a motorcade of American SUVs. TVN24 said the video, partially blurred for security reasons, was shot in Przemysl, a Polish border town that has been the arrival point for many refugees fleeing the war.

Officials, citing security concerns, were cagey about Zelenskyy's travel plans, but a U.S. official confirmed that Zelenskyy arrived on a U.S. Air Force jet that landed at Joint Base Andrews, just outside the capital, from the Polish city of Rzeszow.

Biden told Zelenskyy, who wore a combat-green sweatshirt and boots, that ”it’s an honor to be by your side.”

U.S. and Ukrainian officials have made clear they do not envision an imminent resolution to the war and are preparing for fighting to continue for some time. The latest infusion of U.S. money would be the biggest yet — and exceed Biden’s $37 billion request.

Biden repeated that while the U.S. will arm and train Ukraine, American forces will not be directly engaged in the war.

The latest U.S. military aid package includes not only a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-patriot-missile-system-explainer-b16125509161de8a7a3b4c38022534c7">Patriot missile battery</a>&nbsp;but precision guided bombs for fighter jets, U.S. officials said. It represents an expansion in the kinds of advanced weaponry intended to bolster Ukraine's air defenses against what has been an increasing barrage of Russian missiles.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry has said the delivery of the advanced surface-to-air missile system would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-0cc0e5bece38007e3d9f958f536bf1fe">considered a provocative step</a>&nbsp;and that the system and any crews accompanying it would be a legitimate target for Moscow’s military.

“It’s a defensive system," Biden said of sending the missile system. "It’s not escalatory — it’s defensive.”

The visit comes at an important moment, with the White House bracing for greater resistance when Republicans take control of the House in January and give more scrutiny to aid for Ukraine. GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California has said his party will not write a “blank check” for Ukraine.

Zelenskky appeared well aware of political divisions in the U.S. over prolonged overseas spending, and called on the House and Senate lawmakers to ensure American leadership remains “bicameral and bipartisan.”

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer opened the chamber's session on Wednesday by saying that passage of the aid package and confirmation of the new U.S. ambassador to Russia, Lynne M. Tracy, would send a strong signal that Americans stand “unequivocally” with Ukraine. Tracy was confirmed later on a 93-2 vote.

The Senate's top Republican, Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell, said “the most basic reasons for continuing to help Ukraine degrade and defeat the Russian invaders are cold, hard, practical American interests.” He said "defeating Russia’s aggression will help prevent further security crises in Europe."

Russia’s invasion, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-russia-moscow-kyiv-626a8c5ec22217bacb24ece60fac4fe1">began Feb. 24</a>, has lost momentum. The illegally annexed provinces of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia remain fiercely contested.

With the fighting in the east at a stalemate, Moscow has used missiles and drones to attack Ukraine’s power equipment, hoping to leave people without electricity as freezing weather sets in.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked “every American” for their support of Ukraine as he delivered an address to Congress on Wednesday aimed at sustaining U.S. and allied support for his country's defense against Russia's brutal invasion.

Zelenskyy called U.S. support vital to Ukraine's efforts to beat back Russia, and thanked lawmakers and everyday citizens for tens of billions of dollars in military and economic assistance over the last year.

The Ukrainian leader predicted that next year would be a “turning point” in the conflict, “when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom — the freedom of people who stand for their values.”

Zelenskyy received thunderous applause from members of Congress and presented lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag autographed by front-line troops in Bakhmut, in Ukraine’s contested Donetsk province, which was held up behind him on the rostrum by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671671067008.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy told cheering U.S. legislators during a defiant wartime visit to the nation’s capital on Wednesday that against all odds his country still stands, thanking Americans for helping to fund the war effort with money that is “not charity,” but an “investment” in global security and democracy.(Click below to watch a replay of the address)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNancyPelosi%2Fvideos%2F593976219156848%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=906" 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>The whirlwind stop in Washington — his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February — was aimed at reinvigorating support for his country in the U.S. and around the world at a time when there is concern that allies are growing weary of the costly war and its disruption to global food and energy supplies.Zelenskyy called the tens of billions of dollars in U.S. military and economic assistance provided over the past year vital to Ukraine’s efforts to beat back Russia and appealed for even more in the future.“Your money is not charity,” he sought to reassure both those in the room and those watching at home. “It’s an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way.”Just before his arrival, the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-80ae774f3b7cbb3e1b88d1b728961079">announced a new $1.8 billion military aid package</a>, including for the first time&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-b90ce5a55b1f6b820d03da96612b3796">Patriot surface-to-air missiles</a>. And Congress planned to vote this week on a fresh spending package that includes about $45 billion in additional emergency assistance to Ukraine.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Honored to attend President Zelensky’s address to Congress – and to the American people. Under Zelensky’s leadership, Ukraine has fought back against Putin&#39;s unjust war and today Ukraine remains a sovereign nation.&mdash; Senator Jerry Moran (@JerryMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/JerryMoran/status/1605754587176214528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671669032864.png" alt="Kansas Senator Jerry Moran in attendance at Zelskyy's address" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Senator Jerry Moran in attendance at Zelskyy's address</figcaption>
 </figure>The speech to Congress came after President Joe Biden hosted Zelenskyy in the Oval Office for strategy consultations, saying the U.S. and Ukraine would maintain their “united defense” as Russia wages a “brutal assault on Ukraine’s right to exist as a nation.” Biden pledged to help bring about a “just peace.”Zelenskyy told Biden that he had wanted to visit sooner and his visit now demonstrates that the “situation is under control, because of your support.”The highly sensitive trip came after 10 months of a brutal war that has seen tens of thousands of casualties on both sides and devastation for Ukrainian civilians.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671673639594.png" alt="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris. Pelosi, in turn, presented Zelenskyy with an American flag that had flown over the Capitol that day, and Zelenskyy pumped it up and down as he exited the chamber." />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris. Pelosi, in turn, presented Zelenskyy with an American flag that had flown over the Capitol that day, and Zelenskyy pumped it up and down as he exited the chamber.</figcaption>
 </figure>Zelenskyy traveled to Washington aboard a U.S. Air Force jet. The visit had been long sought by both sides, but the right conditions only came together in the last 10 days, U.S. officials said, after high-level discussions about the security both of Zelenskyy and of his people while he was outside of Ukraine. Zelenskyy spent less than 10 hours in Washington before beginning the journey back to Ukraine.In his remarks to lawmakers, Zelenskky harked back to U.S. victories in the Battle of the Bulge, a turning point against Nazi Germany in World War II, and the Revolutionary War Battle of Saratoga, an American victory that helped draw France’s aid for U.S. independence. The Ukrainian leader predicted that next year would be a “turning point” in the conflict, “when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom — the freedom of people who stand for their values.”Zelenskyy received thunderous applause from members of Congress and presented lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag autographed by front-line troops in Bakhmut, in Ukraine’s contested Donetsk province. The flag was displayed behind him on the rostrum by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris. Pelosi, in turn, presented Zelenskyy with an American flag that had flown over the Capitol that day, and Zelenskyy pumped it up and down as he exited the chamber.Declaring in his speech that Ukraine “will never surrender,” Zelenskyy warned that the stakes of the conflict were greater than just the fate of his nation — that democracy worldwide is being tested.“This battle cannot be ignored, hoping that the ocean or something else will provide protection,” he said, speaking in English for what he had billed as a “speech to Americans.”Earlier, in a joint news conference with Biden, Zelenskyy was pressed on how Ukraine would try to bring an end to the conflict. He rejected Biden’s framing of finding a “just peace,” saying, “For me as a president, ‘just peace’ is no compromises.” He said the war would end once Ukraine’s sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity were restored, and Russia had paid back Ukraine for all the damage inflicted by its forces.“There can’t be any ‘just peace’ in the war that was imposed on us,” he added.Biden, for his part, said Russia was “trying to use winter as a weapon, but Ukrainian people continue to inspire the world." During the news conference, he said Russian President Vladimir Putin had “no intention of stopping this cruel war.”The two leaders appeared to share a warm rapport, laughing at each other's comments and patting each other on the back throughout the visit, though Zelenskyy made clear he will continue to press Biden and other Western leaders for ever more support.He said that after the Patriot system was up and running, “we will send another signal to President Biden that we would like to get more Patriots."“We are in the war," Zelenskyy added with a smile, as Biden chuckled at the direct request. “I’m sorry. I’m really sorry."Biden told Zelenskyy that it was “important for the American people, and for the world, to hear directly from you, Mr. President, about Ukraine’s fight, and the need to continue to stand together through 2023."Zelenskyy had headed to Washington after making&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-zelenskyy-kyiv-9b7d42d3897185c0ecff222e5149e4ea">a daring and dangerous trip</a>&nbsp;Tuesday to what he called the hottest spot on the 1,300-kilometer (800-mile) front line of the war, the city of Bakhmut.Poland’s private broadcaster, TVN24, said Zelenskyy crossed into Poland early Wednesday on his way to Washington. The station showed footage of what appeared to be Zelenskyy arriving at a train station and being escorted to a motorcade of American SUVs. TVN24 said the video, partially blurred for security reasons, was shot in Przemysl, a Polish border town that has been the arrival point for many refugees fleeing the war.Officials, citing security concerns, were cagey about Zelenskyy's travel plans, but a U.S. official confirmed that Zelenskyy arrived on a U.S. Air Force jet that landed at Joint Base Andrews, just outside the capital, from the Polish city of Rzeszow.Biden told Zelenskyy, who wore a combat-green sweatshirt and boots, that ”it’s an honor to be by your side.”U.S. and Ukrainian officials have made clear they do not envision an imminent resolution to the war and are preparing for fighting to continue for some time. The latest infusion of U.S. money would be the biggest yet — and exceed Biden’s $37 billion request.Biden repeated that while the U.S. will arm and train Ukraine, American forces will not be directly engaged in the war.The latest U.S. military aid package includes not only a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-patriot-missile-system-explainer-b16125509161de8a7a3b4c38022534c7">Patriot missile battery</a>&nbsp;but precision guided bombs for fighter jets, U.S. officials said. It represents an expansion in the kinds of advanced weaponry intended to bolster Ukraine's air defenses against what has been an increasing barrage of Russian missiles.Russia’s Foreign Ministry has said the delivery of the advanced surface-to-air missile system would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-0cc0e5bece38007e3d9f958f536bf1fe">considered a provocative step</a>&nbsp;and that the system and any crews accompanying it would be a legitimate target for Moscow’s military.“It’s a defensive system," Biden said of sending the missile system. "It’s not escalatory — it’s defensive.”The visit comes at an important moment, with the White House bracing for greater resistance when Republicans take control of the House in January and give more scrutiny to aid for Ukraine. GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California has said his party will not write a “blank check” for Ukraine.Zelenskky appeared well aware of political divisions in the U.S. over prolonged overseas spending, and called on the House and Senate lawmakers to ensure American leadership remains “bicameral and bipartisan.”Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer opened the chamber's session on Wednesday by saying that passage of the aid package and confirmation of the new U.S. ambassador to Russia, Lynne M. Tracy, would send a strong signal that Americans stand “unequivocally” with Ukraine. Tracy was confirmed later on a 93-2 vote.The Senate's top Republican, Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell, said “the most basic reasons for continuing to help Ukraine degrade and defeat the Russian invaders are cold, hard, practical American interests.” He said "defeating Russia’s aggression will help prevent further security crises in Europe."Russia’s invasion, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-russia-moscow-kyiv-626a8c5ec22217bacb24ece60fac4fe1">began Feb. 24</a>, has lost momentum. The illegally annexed provinces of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia remain fiercely contested.With the fighting in the east at a stalemate, Moscow has used missiles and drones to attack Ukraine’s power equipment, hoping to leave people without electricity as freezing weather sets in.--------WASHINGTON (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked “every American” for their support of Ukraine as he delivered an address to Congress on Wednesday aimed at sustaining U.S. and allied support for his country's defense against Russia's brutal invasion.(Click below to watch a replay of the address)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FNancyPelosi%2Fvideos%2F593976219156848%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=906" 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>Zelenskyy called U.S. support vital to Ukraine's efforts to beat back Russia, and thanked lawmakers and everyday citizens for tens of billions of dollars in military and economic assistance over the last year.The Ukrainian leader predicted that next year would be a “turning point” in the conflict, “when Ukrainian courage and American resolve must guarantee the future of our common freedom — the freedom of people who stand for their values.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671669032864.png" alt="Kansas Senator Jerry Moran in attendance at Zelskyy's address" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Senator Jerry Moran in attendance at Zelskyy's address</figcaption>
 </figure>Zelenskyy received thunderous applause from members of Congress and presented lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag autographed by front-line troops in Bakhmut, in Ukraine’s contested Donetsk province, which was held up behind him on the rostrum by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris.

🎥 Zelenskyy thanks 'every American,' sees 'turning point'

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man already serving a federal prison sentence for running an illegal autopsy scheme also has been sentenced to serve an additional year in jail on state criminal charges.

The Kansas attorney general's office announced Wednesday that Shawn Parcells, 43, was ordered by a state-court judge to serve his 12-month sentence in Wabaunsee County, west of Topeka, after he finishes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-topeka-6c1e6b500c0983cf60d0c548a2cbf817">a sentence of nearly six years</a>&nbsp;in federal prison on a wire fraud charge.

Parcells is housed in the federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas, after pleading guilty in May to the wire fraud charge. Parcells also has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-kansas-topeka-derek-schmidt-9fe88635e4d225e9d6abb6aef05a2b67">banned from doing business</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.

Parcells has no formal education in pathology but made more than $1.1 million in Kansas between 2016 and 2019 from autopsies for more than 350 clients, most of which he did not perform, according to federal court records. He gained national attention in 2014 by assisting a privately hired pathologist in an autopsy of Michael Brown, the unarmed Black 18-year-old from Ferguson, Missouri, who was fatally shot by a white police officer.

In Wabaunsee County, he was convicted of three felony theft charges and three misdemeanor charges of illegally obtaining control over bodies, stemming from three autopsies he performed for the county in 2014 and 2015, the attorney general's office said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574875994992.png" alt="Shawn Parcells photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Shawn Parcells photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man already serving a federal prison sentence for running an illegal autopsy scheme also has been sentenced to serve an additional year in jail on state criminal charges.The Kansas attorney general's office announced Wednesday that Shawn Parcells, 43, was ordered by a state-court judge to serve his 12-month sentence in Wabaunsee County, west of Topeka, after he finishes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-topeka-6c1e6b500c0983cf60d0c548a2cbf817">a sentence of nearly six years</a>&nbsp;in federal prison on a wire fraud charge.Parcells is housed in the federal prison in Leavenworth, Kansas, after pleading guilty in May to the wire fraud charge. Parcells also has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-kansas-topeka-derek-schmidt-9fe88635e4d225e9d6abb6aef05a2b67">banned from doing business</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.Parcells has no formal education in pathology but made more than $1.1 million in Kansas between 2016 and 2019 from autopsies for more than 350 clients, most of which he did not perform, according to federal court records. He gained national attention in 2014 by assisting a privately hired pathologist in an autopsy of Michael Brown, the unarmed Black 18-year-old from Ferguson, Missouri, who was fatally shot by a white police officer.In Wabaunsee County, he was convicted of three felony theft charges and three misdemeanor charges of illegally obtaining control over bodies, stemming from three autopsies he performed for the county in 2014 and 2015, the attorney general's office said.