WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Friday the House will take steps next week to send articles of impeachment to the Senate for President Donald Trump's Senate trial.

In a letter to her Democratic colleagues, Pelosi said she has asked Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler to be prepared to bring to the floor next week a resolution to appoint managers and transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate.

“I will be consulting with you at our Tuesday House Democratic Caucus meeting on how we proceed further,” Pelosi wrote.

Pelosi has held on to the articles in a standoff with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

The protracted showdown has scrambled the politics of impeachment and the congressional calendar three weeks after the House Democrats impeached Trump on charges of abuse and obstruction over his actions toward Ukraine.

Transmittal of the documents and naming of House impeachment managers are the next steps needed to start the Senate trial. Pelosi indicated she may be communicating to her colleagues, as she often does with a letter on her thinking.

McConnell wants to launch a speedy trial without new witnesses but Pelosi is warning against a rush to acquit the president.

Trump mocked Pelosi with his tweets Friday and derided her and other Democrats late Thursday in Toledo, his first rally of 2020.

Pelosi, D-Calif., faces mounting pressure to act. Republicans say Democrats are embarrassed by their vote. But Pelosi countered that Democrats are ‘’proud'' of upholding the Constitution and said she doubted that Senate Republicans will do the same.

Many on Capitol Hill expect the Senate impeachment trial to begin next week.

“I’ll send them over when I’m ready. That will probably be soon,” Pelosi told reporters at the Capitol Thursday, noting she is not postponing it "indefinitely.''

The House impeached Trump in December on the charge that he abused the power of his office by pressuring Ukraine's new leader to investigate Democrats, using as leverage $400 million in military assistance for the U.S. ally as it counters Russia at its border. Trump insists he did nothing wrong, but his defiance of the House Democrats' investigation led to an additional charge of obstruction of Congress.

Pelosi's delay in sending the articles of impeachment over for a Senate trial has led to a standoff with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., over what would be the third impeachment trial in the nation's history.

McConnell said that if Pelosi and House Democrats are "too embarrassed'' to send the articles of impeachment, the Senate will simply move on next week to other business.

“They do not get to trap our entire country into an unending groundhog day of impeachment without resolution,” McConnell said.

McConnell told GOP senators at a lunchtime meeting to expect the trial next week, according to two people familiar with his remarks. The people requested anonymity to discuss the private meeting.

At the same time, McConnell signed on to a resolution from Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., to allow for the dismissal of articles of impeachment if the House doesn't transmit them in 25 days. That change to Senate rules appears unlikely to happen before Pelosi transmits the articles.

In the weeks since Trump was impeached, Democrats have focused on new evidence about Trump's effort to pressure Ukraine to investigate his political rivals and they pushed the Senate to consider new testimony, including from former White House national security adviser John Bolton. Republicans are just as focused on a speedy trial with acquittal.

Republicans have the leverage, with a slim 53-47 Senate majority, as McConnell rebuffs the Democratic demands for testimony and documents. But Democrats are using the delay to sow public doubt about the fairness of the process as they try to peel off wavering GOP senators for the upcoming votes. It takes just 51 senators to set the rules.

“When we say fair trial, we mean facts, we mean witnesses, we mean documents,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., promising votes ahead. “Every single one of us, in this Senate, will have to have to take a stand. How do my Republican friends want the American people, their constituents, and history to remember them?”

Trump weighed in from the White House suggesting that he, too, would like more witnesses at trial. They include former Vice President Joe Biden, who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination now, and his son Hunter, as well as the government whistleblower whose complaint about the president's pressure on Ukraine sparked the impeachment investigation.

On a July telephone call with Ukraine's new president, Trump asked his counterpart to open an investigation into the Bidens while holding up military aid for Ukraine. A Ukrainian gas company had hired Hunter Biden when his father was vice president and the Obama administration's point man on Ukraine. There is no evidence of wrongdoing by either Biden.

Trump suggested that his administration would continue to block Bolton or others from the administration from appearing before senators. Many of those officials have defied congressional subpoenas for their testimony.

“When we start allowing national security advisers to just go up and say whatever they want to say, we can’t do that,” Trump said during an event with building contractors. “So we have to protect presidential privilege for me, but for future presidents. That’s very important."

Bolton, one of four witnesses that Democrats have requested, said this week that he would testify if subpoenaed.

McConnell has said from the start he is looking to model Trump's trial on the last time the Senate convened as the court of impeachment, for President Bill Clinton in 1999. McConnell has said there will be “no haggling” with House Democrats over Senate procedures.

“There will be no unfair, new rule rule-book written solely for President Trump,” McConnell said Thursday.

McConnell, who met with Trump late Wednesday at the White House, suggested last month it would be "fine with me" if the House never sent the articles. More recently, he has drawn on the Constitution's intent for the Senate to have the ultimate say on matters of impeachment. He scoffed that Pelosi has ‘'managed to do the impossible" by uniting Democrats and Republicans who want the trial to begin.

Some Democrats have been showing increased anxiety over the delay as Americans remain divided over Trump's impeachment.

The delay on impeachment has also upended the political calendar, with the weekslong trial now expected to bump into presidential nominating contests, which begin in early February. Several Democratic senators are running for the party's nomination .

One 2020 hopeful, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., told The Associated Press's Ground Game podcast that a looming impeachment trial and other pressing issues in Washington could deal a “big, big blow” to his presidential campaign by keeping him away from Iowa in the final weeks before the Feb. 3 caucuses.

As Pelosi dashed into a morning meeting at the Capitol, she was asked if she had any concerns about losing support from Democrats for her strategy. She told reporters: “No.”

"I know exactly when” to send the impeachment articles over, Pelosi said. "I won't be telling you right now.''

Pelosi is seeking what she says she wanted from the start — “to see the arena” and “terms of the engagement” that McConnell will use for the trial — before sending her House managers to present the articles of impeachment in the Senate. She has yet to choose the managers, a source of political intrigue as many lawmakers want the high-profile job.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578675956863.png" alt="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the media Thursday photo courtesy Rep. Pelosi" />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the media Thursday photo courtesy Rep. Pelosi</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Friday the House will take steps next week to send articles of impeachment to the Senate for President Donald Trump's Senate trial.In a letter to her Democratic colleagues, Pelosi said she has asked Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler to be prepared to bring to the floor next week a resolution to appoint managers and transmit the articles of impeachment to the Senate.“I will be consulting with you at our Tuesday House Democratic Caucus meeting on how we proceed further,” Pelosi wrote.Pelosi has held on to the articles in a standoff with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.The protracted showdown has scrambled the politics of impeachment and the congressional calendar three weeks after the House Democrats impeached Trump on charges of abuse and obstruction over his actions toward Ukraine.Transmittal of the documents and naming of House impeachment managers are the next steps needed to start the Senate trial. Pelosi indicated she may be communicating to her colleagues, as she often does with a letter on her thinking.McConnell wants to launch a speedy trial without new witnesses but Pelosi is warning against a rush to acquit the president.Trump mocked Pelosi with his tweets Friday and derided her and other Democrats late Thursday in Toledo, his first rally of 2020.Pelosi, D-Calif., faces mounting pressure to act. Republicans say Democrats are embarrassed by their vote. But Pelosi countered that Democrats are ‘’proud'' of upholding the Constitution and said she doubted that Senate Republicans will do the same.Many on Capitol Hill expect the Senate impeachment trial to begin next week.“I’ll send them over when I’m ready. That will probably be soon,” Pelosi told reporters at the Capitol Thursday, noting she is not postponing it "indefinitely.''The House impeached Trump in December on the charge that he abused the power of his office by pressuring Ukraine's new leader to investigate Democrats, using as leverage $400 million in military assistance for the U.S. ally as it counters Russia at its border. Trump insists he did nothing wrong, but his defiance of the House Democrats' investigation led to an additional charge of obstruction of Congress.Pelosi's delay in sending the articles of impeachment over for a Senate trial has led to a standoff with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., over what would be the third impeachment trial in the nation's history.McConnell said that if Pelosi and House Democrats are "too embarrassed'' to send the articles of impeachment, the Senate will simply move on next week to other business.“They do not get to trap our entire country into an unending groundhog day of impeachment without resolution,” McConnell said.McConnell told GOP senators at a lunchtime meeting to expect the trial next week, according to two people familiar with his remarks. The people requested anonymity to discuss the private meeting.At the same time, McConnell signed on to a resolution from Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., to allow for the dismissal of articles of impeachment if the House doesn't transmit them in 25 days. That change to Senate rules appears unlikely to happen before Pelosi transmits the articles.In the weeks since Trump was impeached, Democrats have focused on new evidence about Trump's effort to pressure Ukraine to investigate his political rivals and they pushed the Senate to consider new testimony, including from former White House national security adviser John Bolton. Republicans are just as focused on a speedy trial with acquittal.Republicans have the leverage, with a slim 53-47 Senate majority, as McConnell rebuffs the Democratic demands for testimony and documents. But Democrats are using the delay to sow public doubt about the fairness of the process as they try to peel off wavering GOP senators for the upcoming votes. It takes just 51 senators to set the rules.“When we say fair trial, we mean facts, we mean witnesses, we mean documents,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., promising votes ahead. “Every single one of us, in this Senate, will have to have to take a stand. How do my Republican friends want the American people, their constituents, and history to remember them?”Trump weighed in from the White House suggesting that he, too, would like more witnesses at trial. They include former Vice President Joe Biden, who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination now, and his son Hunter, as well as the government whistleblower whose complaint about the president's pressure on Ukraine sparked the impeachment investigation.On a July telephone call with Ukraine's new president, Trump asked his counterpart to open an investigation into the Bidens while holding up military aid for Ukraine. A Ukrainian gas company had hired Hunter Biden when his father was vice president and the Obama administration's point man on Ukraine. There is no evidence of wrongdoing by either Biden.Trump suggested that his administration would continue to block Bolton or others from the administration from appearing before senators. Many of those officials have defied congressional subpoenas for their testimony.“When we start allowing national security advisers to just go up and say whatever they want to say, we can’t do that,” Trump said during an event with building contractors. “So we have to protect presidential privilege for me, but for future presidents. That’s very important."Bolton, one of four witnesses that Democrats have requested, said this week that he would testify if subpoenaed.McConnell has said from the start he is looking to model Trump's trial on the last time the Senate convened as the court of impeachment, for President Bill Clinton in 1999. McConnell has said there will be “no haggling” with House Democrats over Senate procedures.“There will be no unfair, new rule rule-book written solely for President Trump,” McConnell said Thursday.McConnell, who met with Trump late Wednesday at the White House, suggested last month it would be "fine with me" if the House never sent the articles. More recently, he has drawn on the Constitution's intent for the Senate to have the ultimate say on matters of impeachment. He scoffed that Pelosi has ‘'managed to do the impossible" by uniting Democrats and Republicans who want the trial to begin.Some Democrats have been showing increased anxiety over the delay as Americans remain divided over Trump's impeachment.The delay on impeachment has also upended the political calendar, with the weekslong trial now expected to bump into presidential nominating contests, which begin in early February. Several Democratic senators are running for the party's nomination .One 2020 hopeful, Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., told The Associated Press's Ground Game podcast that a looming impeachment trial and other pressing issues in Washington could deal a “big, big blow” to his presidential campaign by keeping him away from Iowa in the final weeks before the Feb. 3 caucuses.As Pelosi dashed into a morning meeting at the Capitol, she was asked if she had any concerns about losing support from Democrats for her strategy. She told reporters: “No.”"I know exactly when” to send the impeachment articles over, Pelosi said. "I won't be telling you right now.''Pelosi is seeking what she says she wanted from the start — “to see the arena” and “terms of the engagement” that McConnell will use for the trial — before sending her House managers to present the articles of impeachment in the Senate. She has yet to choose the managers, a source of political intrigue as many lawmakers want the high-profile job.__

Pelosi: House will send impeachment to Senate next week

ABILENE -- It's nearly time for another Ike Book Talk series to begin.

The 2020 Ike Book Talk series begins Tuesday at 7 p.m. The book club meets in the Visitors Center Auditorium at 200 SE 4th Street, Abilene. This free program is open to the public. Registration is not required.

The first book in the series is At Ease: Stories I Tell to Friends written by Dwight Eisenhower. Ike’s popular memoir is full of anecdotes about his life and stories told for the simple pleasure of telling them. In warm and personal terms, the military hero who became our 34th president writes about his life, his acquaintances-- both celebrated and little known-- and the history that unfolded before his eyes.

Ike's Book Club meets the second Tuesday of every other month. The informal gatherings often include a guest facilitator and may be paired with a movie.

Tuesday, 7 p.m.: At Ease: Stories I Tell to Friends

March 8, 2 p.m.: Mrs. Miniver (movie)

May 12, 7 p.m.: One Soldier's Story: Bob Dole (facilitator: Sandra Wiechert)

July 14, 7 p.m.: The Alice Network: A Novel

Sept. 6, 2 p.m.: Teach Us All (movie)

Sept. 8, 7 p.m.: Warriors Don't Cry

Nov. 8, 2 p.m.: To Hell and Back (movie)

The 2020 Ike Book Talk series is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation, Union Pacific Foundation, Humanities Kansas, and the Abilene Public Library. All books are available at the Abilene Public Library or in the Eisenhower Center gift shop. You can shop online at <a href="http://www.ILikeIkeStore.com">www.ILikeIkeStore.com</a>.

ABILENE -- It's nearly time for another Ike Book Talk series to begin.The 2020 Ike Book Talk series begins Tuesday at 7 p.m. The book club meets in the Visitors Center Auditorium at 200 SE 4th Street, Abilene. This free program is open to the public. Registration is not required.The first book in the series is At Ease: Stories I Tell to Friends written by Dwight Eisenhower. Ike’s popular memoir is full of anecdotes about his life and stories told for the simple pleasure of telling them. In warm and personal terms, the military hero who became our 34th president writes about his life, his acquaintances-- both celebrated and little known-- and the history that unfolded before his eyes.Ike's Book Club meets the second Tuesday of every other month. The informal gatherings often include a guest facilitator and may be paired with a movie.2020 Book Talk ScheduleTuesday, 7 p.m.: At Ease: Stories I Tell to FriendsMarch 8, 2 p.m.: Mrs. Miniver (movie)March 10, 7 p.m.: Mrs. MiniverMay 12, 7 p.m.: One Soldier's Story: Bob Dole (facilitator: Sandra Wiechert)July 14, 7 p.m.: The Alice Network: A NovelSept. 6, 2 p.m.: Teach Us All (movie)Sept. 8, 7 p.m.: Warriors Don't CryNov. 8, 2 p.m.: To Hell and Back (movie)Nov. 10, 7 p.m.: To Hell and BackThe 2020 Ike Book Talk series is made possible courtesy of the Eisenhower Foundation, Union Pacific Foundation, Humanities Kansas, and the Abilene Public Library. All books are available at the Abilene Public Library or in the Eisenhower Center gift shop. You can shop online at <a href="http://www.ILikeIkeStore.com">www.ILikeIkeStore.com</a>.

2020 Ike Book Talk series set to begin next week

Constance Elaine Smith Williams, 71, of Belleville, Kansas passed from this life Monday January 6, 2020, almost reaching her 72nd birthday.&nbsp; Constance (Connie) was born January 26, 1948, in Portland, Maine, the daughter of Forrest (Jack) Thompson Smith Jr. and Lucille Ann Carter Smith.&nbsp; Connie graduated from Gardenia High School, Gardenia California, in 1966.&nbsp; She was married to Theodore (Ted) Williams Jr on January 29, 1966, in Gardenia, California.&nbsp; They welcomed three children, daughter Kelley Lee Ford, son Thomas Jerrold Williams, and daughter Mindy Ann Weber.&nbsp; Ted and Connie moved their family from Sylmar, California, to Belleville the summer of 1977.&nbsp;

Connie built a beautiful life in Belleville with Ted.&nbsp; They founded Palleteers in 1980, later selling the business to C.A. Picard.&nbsp; They worked side by side for many years in the rendering and manufacturing industry until they were ready to retire in 2011.&nbsp; Connie enjoyed traveling to destinations that work took her to, and to Portland, Maine every year to lay in a hammock reading a book, enjoy boat rides and visit family.&nbsp; She found great joy in biannual gambling trips to Las Vegas, and around the area with her friend Jill Marton.&nbsp; Connie enjoyed the friendships of many in the Belleville community.&nbsp; Connie’s passion was her grandchildren.&nbsp; She loved to watch her grandchildren’s activities including sporting events.&nbsp; As her health failed in recent years, she was content to be at home and enjoyed the company of her family.&nbsp; &nbsp;

She will be forever remembered by son Tom Williams, wife Molly and granddaughter Elly of their home in Belleville; daughter Mindy Weber, husband Kevin, granddaughters Kara and Hannah of Belleville; son in law Charles Ford of Wichita, and grandson, Zachary Palmquist of Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; Connie was preceded in death by her parents, husband Theodore (Ted) Williams, and recently daughter Kelley.&nbsp;

Per Connie’s wishes, the casket will remain closed. Funeral services will be 10:30 am, on Monday, January 13, 2020, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville. Connie will be buried with Ted at the Belleville City Cemetery at a later time. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, on Sunday, January 12, 2020, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Connie E. Williams Memorial, and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home assisted the Williams family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578620360228.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Constance Elaine Smith Williams, 71, of Belleville, Kansas passed from this life Monday January 6, 2020, almost reaching her 72nd birthday.&nbsp; Constance (Connie) was born January 26, 1948, in Portland, Maine, the daughter of Forrest (Jack) Thompson Smith Jr. and Lucille Ann Carter Smith.&nbsp; Connie graduated from Gardenia High School, Gardenia California, in 1966.&nbsp; She was married to Theodore (Ted) Williams Jr on January 29, 1966, in Gardenia, California.&nbsp; They welcomed three children, daughter Kelley Lee Ford, son Thomas Jerrold Williams, and daughter Mindy Ann Weber.&nbsp; Ted and Connie moved their family from Sylmar, California, to Belleville the summer of 1977.&nbsp;Connie built a beautiful life in Belleville with Ted.&nbsp; They founded Palleteers in 1980, later selling the business to C.A. Picard.&nbsp; They worked side by side for many years in the rendering and manufacturing industry until they were ready to retire in 2011.&nbsp; Connie enjoyed traveling to destinations that work took her to, and to Portland, Maine every year to lay in a hammock reading a book, enjoy boat rides and visit family.&nbsp; She found great joy in biannual gambling trips to Las Vegas, and around the area with her friend Jill Marton.&nbsp; Connie enjoyed the friendships of many in the Belleville community.&nbsp; Connie’s passion was her grandchildren.&nbsp; She loved to watch her grandchildren’s activities including sporting events.&nbsp; As her health failed in recent years, she was content to be at home and enjoyed the company of her family.&nbsp; &nbsp;She will be forever remembered by son Tom Williams, wife Molly and granddaughter Elly of their home in Belleville; daughter Mindy Weber, husband Kevin, granddaughters Kara and Hannah of Belleville; son in law Charles Ford of Wichita, and grandson, Zachary Palmquist of Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; Connie was preceded in death by her parents, husband Theodore (Ted) Williams, and recently daughter Kelley.&nbsp;Per Connie’s wishes, the casket will remain closed. Funeral services will be 10:30 am, on Monday, January 13, 2020, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville. Connie will be buried with Ted at the Belleville City Cemetery at a later time. Visitation will be from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, on Sunday, January 12, 2020, at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the Connie E. Williams Memorial, and may be sent in care of the funeral home.Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home assisted the Williams family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com

Constance Elaine Smith Williams

Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism

WICHITA – Kansas bowhunter, Brian Butcher, 38, harvested a whitetail buck in Chase County last October that he knew was something special. It wasn't until the buck's rack was measured by Boone and Crockett Club certified measurers on Friday, Jan. 3 that Butcher confirmed just how special the deer&nbsp;<a></a>was. Butcher's whitetail earned an unofficial net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches.

If accepted and verified by the Boone and Crockett Club – an internationally recognized non-profit conservation organization that maintains native North American big game records – the deer Butcher harvested would rank fourth in the world for non-typical whitetail deer. As for the Kansas record books, Butcher's buck will be the largest non-typical whitetail ever taken, surpassing the current state record for a non-typical whitetail harvested with archery equipment by 57 2/8 inches.

"When I first saw it, I thought it had some branches or grass tangled up in its antlers," said Butcher. "But when I looked at him with binoculars, I realized it was all antlers."

Butcher released his arrow when the giant buck was just 25 yards from his treestand and the shot was true. After waiting only 5-10 minutes, Butcher tracked the deer to a spot 50 yards away.

"I had the most opposite feeling of 'ground shrinkage' possible," Butcher said of the big whitetail with 67 scorable points. "I was in complete shock."

After sharing photos of the buck with friend Brian Crowe, the duo got together and attempted to score the deer.

"We added it up five times because it didn't make sense," Butcher laughed. "We had it at 341 inches gross, and 316 inches net."

According to Boone and Crockett guidelines, the rack could not be officially measured until it had dried for at least 60 days. On January 3, Boone and Crockett measurers Marc Murrell, Newton, and Ken Witt, Burleson, Tex., took on what would become a nearly five-hour-long task of scoring the deer. Murrell and Witt came up with a pending net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches.

The score sheet and entry materials on Butcher's buck have been mailed to the Boone and Crockett Club headquarters for verification and acceptance. Because of its high ranking, the rack will be scored again by a panel of measurers at the Boone and Crockett Club's next awards ceremony in 2022.

If it stands, Butcher's buck will rank fourth in the world of non-typical whitetails. Boone and Crockett's top two non-typical whitetails were found dead in Missouri and Ohio and scored 333 7/8 inches and 328 2/8 inches, respectively.

The largest hunter-harvested non-typical whitetail was taken by bowhunter Luke Brewster in Illinois in 2018 and scored 327 7/8 inches.

The current Kansas state record firearm non-typical whitetail was taken in 1987 by Joseph Waters in Shawnee County and scored 280 4/8 inches. The current Kansas state record archery non-typical whitetail was shot by Dale Larson in 1998 in Pottawatomie County and scored 264 1/8 inches.

For more on Kansas big game records, visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/What-to-Hunt.

For more on the Boone and Crockett Club, visit www.boone-crockett.org/.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578444027567.png" alt="Kansas Bowhunter Brian Butcher photo KDWP&amp;T" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Bowhunter Brian Butcher photo KDWP&amp;T</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and TourismWICHITA – Kansas bowhunter, Brian Butcher, 38, harvested a whitetail buck in Chase County last October that he knew was something special. It wasn't until the buck's rack was measured by Boone and Crockett Club certified measurers on Friday, Jan. 3 that Butcher confirmed just how special the deer&nbsp;<a></a>was. Butcher's whitetail earned an unofficial net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches. If accepted and verified by the Boone and Crockett Club – an internationally recognized non-profit conservation organization that maintains native North American big game records – the deer Butcher harvested would rank fourth in the world for non-typical whitetail deer. As for the Kansas record books, Butcher's buck will be the largest non-typical whitetail ever taken, surpassing the current state record for a non-typical whitetail harvested with archery equipment by 57 2/8 inches."When I first saw it, I thought it had some branches or grass tangled up in its antlers," said Butcher. "But when I looked at him with binoculars, I realized it was all antlers."Butcher released his arrow when the giant buck was just 25 yards from his treestand and the shot was true. After waiting only 5-10 minutes, Butcher tracked the deer to a spot 50 yards away."I had the most opposite feeling of 'ground shrinkage' possible," Butcher said of the big whitetail with 67 scorable points. "I was in complete shock."After sharing photos of the buck with friend Brian Crowe, the duo got together and attempted to score the deer."We added it up five times because it didn't make sense," Butcher laughed. "We had it at 341 inches gross, and 316 inches net."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578444176480.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to Boone and Crockett guidelines, the rack could not be officially measured until it had dried for at least 60 days. On January 3, Boone and Crockett measurers Marc Murrell, Newton, and Ken Witt, Burleson, Tex., took on what would become a nearly five-hour-long task of scoring the deer. Murrell and Witt came up with a pending net non-typical score of 321 3/8 inches.The score sheet and entry materials on Butcher's buck have been mailed to the Boone and Crockett Club headquarters for verification and acceptance. Because of its high ranking, the rack will be scored again by a panel of measurers at the Boone and Crockett Club's next awards ceremony in 2022.If it stands, Butcher's buck will rank fourth in the world of non-typical whitetails. Boone and Crockett's top two non-typical whitetails were found dead in Missouri and Ohio and scored 333 7/8 inches and 328 2/8 inches, respectively.The largest hunter-harvested non-typical whitetail was taken by bowhunter Luke Brewster in Illinois in 2018 and scored 327 7/8 inches.The current Kansas state record firearm non-typical whitetail was taken in 1987 by Joseph Waters in Shawnee County and scored 280 4/8 inches. The current Kansas state record archery non-typical whitetail was shot by Dale Larson in 1998 in Pottawatomie County and scored 264 1/8 inches.For more on Kansas big game records, visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/What-to-Hunt.For more on the Boone and Crockett Club, visit www.boone-crockett.org/.

 Kansas bowhunter takes world-class whitetail

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal December shooting in Wichita and have made an arrest in Oklahoma.

Just before before 3 a.m. on Sunday Dec. 2, police responded to a shooting call at the 511 club, 511 North West Street in Wichita, according to Captain Brent Allred.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located 19-year-old Sonya Brown with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; She was transported to an area hospital where she died.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between the shooting suspect 25-year-old Terranace Johnson and a male patron inside the business when Johnson fired multiple shots, which struck Brown police believe was an unintended and uninvolved victim.&nbsp; 

Through the investigation, investigators learned of Johnson’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp; He was located and arrested on Wednesday in Warr Acres, Oklahoma.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Johnson was extradited to Wichita and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578484036814.png" alt="Terrance Johnson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Terrance Johnson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal December shooting in Wichita and have made an arrest in Oklahoma.Just before before 3 a.m. on Sunday Dec. 2, police responded to a shooting call at the 511 club, 511 North West Street in Wichita, according to Captain Brent Allred.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located 19-year-old Sonya Brown with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; She was transported to an area hospital where she died.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578484261076.png" alt="Sonya Brown photo courtesy Biglow Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Sonya Brown photo courtesy Biglow Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between the shooting suspect 25-year-old Terranace Johnson and a male patron inside the business when Johnson fired multiple shots, which struck Brown police believe was an unintended and uninvolved victim.&nbsp; Through the investigation, investigators learned of Johnson’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp; He was located and arrested on Wednesday in Warr Acres, Oklahoma.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Johnson was extradited to Wichita and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.

Suspect in fatal Kansas nightclub shooting arrested in Oklahoma

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting incident and have made an arrest.&nbsp;

Just after 7:30p.m. Monday, police were sent to the area of SW 8th and SW Fillmore in Topeka after several reports of multiple gunshots, according to spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a man with a non-life threatening injury initially believed to a gunshot wound. EMS transported the man to a local hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

Investigators&nbsp; located a vehicle that had been struck by gunfire at SW 6th and SW Fillmore. The vehicle also contained a significant amount of illegal drugs and the injured party refused to cooperate with the police investigation.

This incident centered on an attempted sale of illegal drugs that resulted in a robbery attempt which culminated in the listed related shooting incident.

The injured man identified as 19-year-old Amari L. Wilkerson of Topeka, was released from a local hospital, arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested criminal charges of Obstruction of Justice and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578419561094.png" alt="Wilkerson photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Wilkerson photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting incident and have made an arrest.&nbsp;Just after 7:30p.m. Monday, police were sent to the area of SW 8th and SW Fillmore in Topeka after several reports of multiple gunshots, according to spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.Upon arrival, officers discovered a man with a non-life threatening injury initially believed to a gunshot wound. EMS transported the man to a local hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Investigators&nbsp; located a vehicle that had been struck by gunfire at SW 6th and SW Fillmore. The vehicle also contained a significant amount of illegal drugs and the injured party refused to cooperate with the police investigation.This incident centered on an attempted sale of illegal drugs that resulted in a robbery attempt which culminated in the listed related shooting incident.The injured man identified as 19-year-old Amari L. Wilkerson of Topeka, was released from a local hospital, arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested criminal charges of Obstruction of Justice and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute.

Kansas robbery suspect released from hospital, taken to jail

Virginita Linenberger, age 90, of Hays, Kansas died Saturday, January 4, 2020, a the Kenwoodview Health and Rehabilitation Center, Salina, Kansas.

She was born September 24, 1929, at Victoria, Kansas, to Bonavent and Gertrude (Beck) - Brungardt Linenberger.

She grew up and attended school in Victoria.&nbsp; She worked at Travenol&nbsp; Labs in Hays for 12 years.&nbsp; She was a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis and Secular Franciscan Order both of Victoria.&nbsp; She lived in Victoria until moving to Hays in 1993, then moved to the Care Center in 2019. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Survivors include, one brother, John Linenberger and wife Marlene, Manhattan, KS, one sister, Bonita Schulte and husband, Gary, Salina, KS; two sisters-in-law, Carol Linenberger and Norma Linenberger, both of Salina, KS; and many nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers, Edwin, Gilbert, Dennis, Verlin, Thomas, Leo, and Patrick Linenberger; two sisters, Henrietta Giebler and Doris Younger-Pfeifer; and one infant brother, Clarence Linenberger.

Services are 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 9, 2020, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.

A vigil service will be at 6:30 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Clines-Keithley Mortuary of Hays and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Thursday, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas. &nbsp;

The family suggests memorials to The Basilica of St. Fidelis.

Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E.22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578343847320.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virginita Linenberger, age 90, of Hays, Kansas died Saturday, January 4, 2020, a the Kenwoodview Health and Rehabilitation Center, Salina, Kansas.She was born September 24, 1929, at Victoria, Kansas, to Bonavent and Gertrude (Beck) - Brungardt Linenberger.She grew up and attended school in Victoria.&nbsp; She worked at Travenol&nbsp; Labs in Hays for 12 years.&nbsp; She was a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis and Secular Franciscan Order both of Victoria.&nbsp; She lived in Victoria until moving to Hays in 1993, then moved to the Care Center in 2019. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Survivors include, one brother, John Linenberger and wife Marlene, Manhattan, KS, one sister, Bonita Schulte and husband, Gary, Salina, KS; two sisters-in-law, Carol Linenberger and Norma Linenberger, both of Salina, KS; and many nephews and nieces.She was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers, Edwin, Gilbert, Dennis, Verlin, Thomas, Leo, and Patrick Linenberger; two sisters, Henrietta Giebler and Doris Younger-Pfeifer; and one infant brother, Clarence Linenberger.Services are 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 9, 2020, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.A vigil service will be at 6:30 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.Visitation will be from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Clines-Keithley Mortuary of Hays and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Thursday, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas. &nbsp;The family suggests memorials to The Basilica of St. Fidelis.Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E.22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp;

Virginita Linenberger

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects caught driving a stolen car.

Just after 8a.m. Friday, a Shawnee County Sheriff's deputy attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevy Malibu for failing to signal a lane change in the 200 Block of NW Jay Street, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.

The vehicle stopped in a driveway and the passenger later identified as Justin R. Shumway, 37, Topeka, fled the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; While running, deputies observed Shumway throwing a 9mm handgun that was later recovered, according to Anderson.

Deputies arrested him on NW Studer while he was attempted to escape in another vehicle.

Deputies booked him on requested charges of criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, a federal warrant for a parole violation for a previous charge of felon in possession of a weapon.

The Chevy was stolen in Wichita, according to Anderson. Deputies arrested the driver identified as Tina M. Funk, 26, Topeka, on requested charges that include possession of stolen property, driving without a license, misdemeanor obstruction,&nbsp; an out of county warrant and additional traffic violations, according to Anderson.

Shumway has three previous convictions for forgery and for burglary, theft, aggravated battery and battery of a corrections officer, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578154038424.png" alt="Shumway photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Shumway photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects caught driving a stolen car.Just after 8a.m. Friday, a Shawnee County Sheriff's deputy attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevy Malibu for failing to signal a lane change in the 200 Block of NW Jay Street, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.The vehicle stopped in a driveway and the passenger later identified as Justin R. Shumway, 37, Topeka, fled the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; While running, deputies observed Shumway throwing a 9mm handgun that was later recovered, according to Anderson.Deputies arrested him on NW Studer while he was attempted to escape in another vehicle.Deputies booked him on requested charges of criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, a federal warrant for a parole violation for a previous charge of felon in possession of a weapon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578154007242.png" alt="Funk photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Funk photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chevy was stolen in Wichita, according to Anderson. Deputies arrested the driver identified as Tina M. Funk, 26, Topeka, on requested charges that include possession of stolen property, driving without a license, misdemeanor obstruction,&nbsp; an out of county warrant and additional traffic violations, according to Anderson.Shumway has three previous convictions for forgery and for burglary, theft, aggravated battery and battery of a corrections officer, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Sheriff: Kan. felon tossed handgun after running from stolen car

COWLEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for an alleged burglary of Christmas gifts.

On December 18, officers took a report of a vehicle burglary that had occurred in the 300 block of North A Street in Arkansas City, according to a media release. The victims reported the theft of toys they were concealing from their children in the trunk of their car, in anticipation of Christmas. The total loss was estimated at $160.

The stolen items were purchased locally, so an officer contacted the store where they were purchased and made employees aware of the theft, in the event the items were returned for money.

On Dec. 27, police learned that two items matching the description of the stolen goods had been returned to the store for a refund. The officer was able to quickly identify a suspect, based on surveillance video from the store. The suspect, later identified as Shannon L. Clark, 40, Arkansas City was located and interviewed. A second suspect, later identified as Kadan Ray Armstrong 18, also was contacted and interviewed. 

Following the interviews, police took both suspects&nbsp; into custody without incident.&nbsp;Kadan Ray Armstrong, 18, was booked on suspicion of felony burglary and misdemeanor theft.&nbsp; He remains in custody.

&nbsp;Clark was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor theft. She posted bond and is no longer in custody.This case will be forwarded to the Cowley County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578068848817.png" alt="Armstrong photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Armstrong photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for an alleged burglary of Christmas gifts.On December 18, officers took a report of a vehicle burglary that had occurred in the 300 block of North A Street in Arkansas City, according to a media release. The victims reported the theft of toys they were concealing from their children in the trunk of their car, in anticipation of Christmas. The total loss was estimated at $160.The stolen items were purchased locally, so an officer contacted the store where they were purchased and made employees aware of the theft, in the event the items were returned for money.On Dec. 27, police learned that two items matching the description of the stolen goods had been returned to the store for a refund. The officer was able to quickly identify a suspect, based on surveillance video from the store. The suspect, later identified as Shannon L. Clark, 40, Arkansas City was located and interviewed. A second suspect, later identified as Kadan Ray Armstrong 18, also was contacted and interviewed. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578068787500.png" alt="Clark photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Clark photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Following the interviews, police took both suspects&nbsp; into custody without incident.&nbsp;Kadan Ray Armstrong, 18, was booked on suspicion of felony burglary and misdemeanor theft.&nbsp; He remains in custody.&nbsp;Clark was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor theft. She posted bond and is no longer in custody.This case will be forwarded to the Cowley County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Police: Grinch stole Kansas kid's Christmas toys from parent's car

James “Jimmy” D. Reiter, age 69, of Concordia, KS, died Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Cloud County Health Center, Concordia, KS.&nbsp; He was born on May 2, 1950 in Sioux Falls, SD to William (Bill) &amp; Joyce E. (Thompson) Reiter.&nbsp;

It was Jimmy’s wishes to be cremated and a memorial service will be held 10:30 am, Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia.&nbsp; Friends may sign the register book from 8 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, January 7, 2020.&nbsp; The family suggests memorials to Cloud County Health Center Foundation in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; For online condolences, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chaputbuoy.com/">www.chaputbuoy.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578093889437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James “Jimmy” D. Reiter, age 69, of Concordia, KS, died Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Cloud County Health Center, Concordia, KS.&nbsp; He was born on May 2, 1950 in Sioux Falls, SD to William (Bill) &amp; Joyce E. (Thompson) Reiter.&nbsp;It was Jimmy’s wishes to be cremated and a memorial service will be held 10:30 am, Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia.&nbsp; Friends may sign the register book from 8 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, January 7, 2020.&nbsp; The family suggests memorials to Cloud County Health Center Foundation in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; For online condolences, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chaputbuoy.com/">www.chaputbuoy.com</a>.

James “Jimmy” D. Reiter

SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and have two suspects in custody.

Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, police responded to the area of the 2900 block of SW 31st Court in Topeka reference an aggravated robbery that had just occurred, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson.

&nbsp;The victim, who was unharmed, was approached by the suspect who was armed with a knife during the robbery. The suspect was described as a white male approximately six feet tall and skinny wearing a black hoodie and was last seen east bound on foot. A neighborhood search was completed but police did not find the suspect.

Just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday officers on patrol located a vehicle that detectives had issued an attempt to locate in connection with the robbery The red Pontiac G6 was parked in front of 1910 SE Illinois. Officers knocked on the door and could see and hear people inside. The subjects refused to come out, but eventually two individuals came out about one hour later. The officers at the scene were given consent to clear the house. Officers at the scene were unable to clear the attic and saw signs that indicated someone had recently been up there. The home was secured and detectives applied for and were granted a search warrant for the residence. After several hours of attempting to make contact with anyone inside the residence, the warrant was executed. No other individuals were located inside.

Detectives developed information that the persons of interest in the robbery case were at another location. Police arrested&nbsp; 26-year-old Jordan J. Harper and 32-year-old John C. Riley II and booked them into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Burglary and Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578002744837.png" alt="Police on the scene of the standoff Wednesday photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the standoff Wednesday photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and have two suspects in custody.Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, police responded to the area of the 2900 block of SW 31st Court in Topeka reference an aggravated robbery that had just occurred, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson.&nbsp;The victim, who was unharmed, was approached by the suspect who was armed with a knife during the robbery. The suspect was described as a white male approximately six feet tall and skinny wearing a black hoodie and was last seen east bound on foot. A neighborhood search was completed but police did not find the suspect.Just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday officers on patrol located a vehicle that detectives had issued an attempt to locate in connection with the robbery The red Pontiac G6 was parked in front of 1910 SE Illinois. Officers knocked on the door and could see and hear people inside. The subjects refused to come out, but eventually two individuals came out about one hour later. The officers at the scene were given consent to clear the house. Officers at the scene were unable to clear the attic and saw signs that indicated someone had recently been up there. The home was secured and detectives applied for and were granted a search warrant for the residence. After several hours of attempting to make contact with anyone inside the residence, the warrant was executed. No other individuals were located inside.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578002938496.png" alt="Riley had previous convictions for robbery, a fourth DUI, identity theft and was reported as an absconder, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Riley had previous convictions for robbery, a fourth DUI, identity theft and was reported as an absconder, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>Detectives developed information that the persons of interest in the robbery case were at another location. Police arrested&nbsp; 26-year-old Jordan J. Harper and 32-year-old John C. Riley II and booked them into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Burglary and Theft.

Wanted Kan. felon captured after New Year's Day standoff

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A paroled killer and a woman whom he had lived with arrested in the death of the man's girlfriend made their first appearances in court Tuesday, 

According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office,&nbsp;Ahmad Bey, 39, was charged with first-degree murder and criminal possession of a firearem by a felon. Vanessa  Waner, 34, was charged charged with interference with law enforcement in connection with the death of 41-year-old Melinda Sprague.Wa

Just after 2p.m. on Christmas Eve, a co-worker of&nbsp; Sprague contacted police about her not showing up for work, according to Wichita Police Captain Brett Allred. Police made a missing person report.

During the investigation, police located Sprague's missing 2017 Ford Focus behind a business in the 1500 Block of East Harry in Wichita, according to Allred.&nbsp; They also located her body inside the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police developed information that led to the arrest of 39-year-old Ahmad Bey on a requested charge of first-degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant and 34-year-old Vanessa&nbsp; Waner on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Allred.

Police investigators learned that Sprague and Bey were in a dating relationship, according to Allred.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bey and Waner lived together.

Police found Bey at a residence in Neodesha, Kansas and brought him back to Wichita. Both suspects were booked into the Sedgwick County jail early Friday, according to online jail records. He was released from prison in July after a conviction for second-degree murder in 1999, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577465236625.png" alt="Bey photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Bey photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A paroled killer and a woman whom he had lived with arrested in the death of the man's girlfriend made their first appearances in court Tuesday, According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office,&nbsp;Ahmad Bey, 39, was charged with first-degree murder and criminal possession of a firearem by a felon. Vanessa Waner, 34, was charged charged with interference with law enforcement in connection with the death of 41-year-old Melinda Sprague.Wa<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577465562356.png" alt="Waner" />
 <figcaption>Waner</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 2p.m. on Christmas Eve, a co-worker of&nbsp; Sprague contacted police about her not showing up for work, according to Wichita Police Captain Brett Allred. Police made a missing person report.During the investigation, police located Sprague's missing 2017 Ford Focus behind a business in the 1500 Block of East Harry in Wichita, according to Allred.&nbsp; They also located her body inside the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.Police developed information that led to the arrest of 39-year-old Ahmad Bey on a requested charge of first-degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant and 34-year-old Vanessa&nbsp; Waner on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Allred.Police investigators learned that Sprague and Bey were in a dating relationship, according to Allred.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bey and Waner lived together.Police found Bey at a residence in Neodesha, Kansas and brought him back to Wichita. Both suspects were booked into the Sedgwick County jail early Friday, according to online jail records. He was released from prison in July after a conviction for second-degree murder in 1999, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas man charged with killing girlfriend on Christmas Eve

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

Almost 15 years ago, I gave what would be one of the most important speeches of my career at the National FFA Convention. I agonized over creating the right message in hopes of making a lasting impact.

Years later, I watched another FFA member give the exact same speech. It had different stories, but the main points and overall message were the same. I was shocked because there was no way that this FFA member heard my speech. Their own life experiences must have led them to the same thoughts I had more than a decade prior.

Maybe it is a function of human nature or the product of a constant struggle to achieve the things we yearn for like success, love or the American Dream; ideas and lessons are rarely completely original or unique. Humans throughout history seem to live the same stories and plots repeatedly.

A few weeks ago, in my preoccupation with the too-short span between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I received invitations to multiple Roaring Twenties themed New Year’s Eve parties. What an original idea (at least to me, to celebrate a time that history books hailed as a time of whimsy, spectacle and entertainment.

Since then, this idea that history repeats itself and has been on my mind. What will the 2020s have in common with the 1920s, and, more importantly, what can be learned from a decade that earned the moniker “roaring?”

This curiosity led me to a brief internet refresher because the attributes filling my mind were all the “Great Gatsby.” My search revealed interesting facts and similarities to modern life in this gap between World War I and the Great Depression.

Like today, there was a presidential election. Warren Harding’s successful campaign used the slogan “Return to Normalcy,” painting a nostalgic picture of life before WW I, which ended a year earlier. Harding called for politics that were, “not the dramatic, but the dispassionate” and for people to remember that “human ills are not curable by legislation … excess of government offer(s) no substitute for quality of citizenship.” President Harding was popular until scandals came to light after his death in 1923.

The title roaring came from all of the excitement of the time. The economy was growing. New products like automobiles, moving pictures and radio brought “modernity” to the masses. Social change was prevalent with women winning the right to vote in many states and national debates taking place about prohibition, immigration, political corruption and industrialization. It was the age of Gatsby with jazz, art deco, flappers and speakeasys. The decade has a larger than life zeitgeist.

The Roaring Twenties had a definitive and halting end. All that prosperity and liveliness faded with the crash of the stock marketing in October of 1929 and a new era of hardship and scarcity in the Great Depression.

Parallels exist between the two times. Politicians are human, and humans are fallible. Some people still yearn for normalcy, while others desire social and political change. Technology and the economy have points of great growth, but that will not last forever.

My takeaway is simple. Spirit not circumstance can define people. Times will be both better and worse in my future. Be thankful for your current blessings and live life gregariously and fully at all times.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherAlmost 15 years ago, I gave what would be one of the most important speeches of my career at the National FFA Convention. I agonized over creating the right message in hopes of making a lasting impact.Years later, I watched another FFA member give the exact same speech. It had different stories, but the main points and overall message were the same. I was shocked because there was no way that this FFA member heard my speech. Their own life experiences must have led them to the same thoughts I had more than a decade prior.Maybe it is a function of human nature or the product of a constant struggle to achieve the things we yearn for like success, love or the American Dream; ideas and lessons are rarely completely original or unique. Humans throughout history seem to live the same stories and plots repeatedly.A few weeks ago, in my preoccupation with the too-short span between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I received invitations to multiple Roaring Twenties themed New Year’s Eve parties. What an original idea (at least to me, to celebrate a time that history books hailed as a time of whimsy, spectacle and entertainment.Since then, this idea that history repeats itself and has been on my mind. What will the 2020s have in common with the 1920s, and, more importantly, what can be learned from a decade that earned the moniker “roaring?”This curiosity led me to a brief internet refresher because the attributes filling my mind were all the “Great Gatsby.” My search revealed interesting facts and similarities to modern life in this gap between World War I and the Great Depression.Like today, there was a presidential election. Warren Harding’s successful campaign used the slogan “Return to Normalcy,” painting a nostalgic picture of life before WW I, which ended a year earlier. Harding called for politics that were, “not the dramatic, but the dispassionate” and for people to remember that “human ills are not curable by legislation … excess of government offer(s) no substitute for quality of citizenship.” President Harding was popular until scandals came to light after his death in 1923.The title roaring came from all of the excitement of the time. The economy was growing. New products like automobiles, moving pictures and radio brought “modernity” to the masses. Social change was prevalent with women winning the right to vote in many states and national debates taking place about prohibition, immigration, political corruption and industrialization. It was the age of Gatsby with jazz, art deco, flappers and speakeasys. The decade has a larger than life zeitgeist.The Roaring Twenties had a definitive and halting end. All that prosperity and liveliness faded with the crash of the stock marketing in October of 1929 and a new era of hardship and scarcity in the Great Depression.Parallels exist between the two times. Politicians are human, and humans are fallible. Some people still yearn for normalcy, while others desire social and political change. Technology and the economy have points of great growth, but that will not last forever.My takeaway is simple. Spirit not circumstance can define people. Times will be both better and worse in my future. Be thankful for your current blessings and live life gregariously and fully at all times."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Roaring into the 20s

TOPEKA, Kan. — Republicans in two Midwestern states where GOP-controlled legislatures have gun-rights majorities are proposing measures aimed at preventing the U.S. government or other states from taking guns away from residents whom the courts deem a danger to themselves.

Neither Oklahoma nor Kansas has “red flag” laws through which relatives or police can obtain a court order to remove firearms from someone's possession. However, the proposals in those states also would prevent local city and county governments from enacting such laws. They would even go so far as to make it a felony for someone to help enforce such an order.

Sponsors said they were inspired by prospects that Congress might enact such a law or offer federal grants to entice states into putting them on the books.

Supporters of red flag laws say they reduce suicides and gun violence and lessen the risk of mass shootings. Gun-rights supporters contend they violate not only the right to own firearms but other constitutional guarantees, such as the right to due legal process, to confront an accuser, and against unreasonable searches and seizures of property.

“There's numerous violations of the Bill of Rights taking place by these red flags laws," Tulsa-area Republican state Sen. Nathan Dahm, who is sponsoring Oklahoma's measure.

Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have some sort of red flag law, with most enacting them starting in 2018, according groups favoring them and other gun-control measures. Interest in Congress appeared to grow after mass shootings in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/78ac82903ccf46b58964f7d34bd35ead">Dayton, Ohio,&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3fd473325d17429784e91a3c8c7b3909">El Paso, Texas.</a>

TOPEKA, Kan. — Republicans in two Midwestern states where GOP-controlled legislatures have gun-rights majorities are proposing measures aimed at preventing the U.S. government or other states from taking guns away from residents whom the courts deem a danger to themselves.Neither Oklahoma nor Kansas has “red flag” laws through which relatives or police can obtain a court order to remove firearms from someone's possession. However, the proposals in those states also would prevent local city and county governments from enacting such laws. They would even go so far as to make it a felony for someone to help enforce such an order.Sponsors said they were inspired by prospects that Congress might enact such a law or offer federal grants to entice states into putting them on the books.Supporters of red flag laws say they reduce suicides and gun violence and lessen the risk of mass shootings. Gun-rights supporters contend they violate not only the right to own firearms but other constitutional guarantees, such as the right to due legal process, to confront an accuser, and against unreasonable searches and seizures of property.“There's numerous violations of the Bill of Rights taking place by these red flags laws," Tulsa-area Republican state Sen. Nathan Dahm, who is sponsoring Oklahoma's measure.Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have some sort of red flag law, with most enacting them starting in 2018, according groups favoring them and other gun-control measures. Interest in Congress appeared to grow after mass shootings in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/78ac82903ccf46b58964f7d34bd35ead">Dayton, Ohio,&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3fd473325d17429784e91a3c8c7b3909">El Paso, Texas.</a>

GOP lawmakers in Kansas seek anti-red flag laws on guns

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Longtime Salina radio personality Randy Picking is calling it a career.

Picking, current program director for KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM, will bring to an end a nearly 44-year career in radio when he signs off for the final time today.

A self-described jack of all trades and master of none, Picking has worked as an announcer, operations manager, program director, account representative, reporter, and news director. Stations he has worked at include KSAL, KYEZ, KABI, KSAJ, KFRM/KNNN, KILS, KQNS, KINA, and KSKG.

Picking said he was bitten by the radio bug early in life.

"At the age of seven, I developed an interest in radio. In fact, I bought off of the back of a comic book a mini AM transmitter and would place the transmitter next to my record player in my bedroom, announce a record, go outside in the yard at home listen to the record and when it was about to end, come back in a play another record," Picking told Salina Post. 

Years later, Picking made the jump to a radio career after his father got him an interview at KSAL in the summer of 1975, he said. He began doing color and keeping stats at high school and college games in 1976.

"I finally got paid as a part-time automation tape changer at KYEZ in 1977," Picking said. "My first full-time job was in 1980 as the evening announcer at KSAL."

While he held many positions over the years, Picking said the favorite part of his career was being able to share his passion for the weather.

"Regardless of the time of the year, I was able to relay weather information to the listeners and hoped it helped them make decisions on postponing a trip, getting their children inside before a storm or heading down to the basement," he said.

Picking's career also afforded him the opportunity to meet some famous people.

"Thanks to covering events at the Eisenhower Library and Museum I had the chance to meet President Ronald Reagan, and President George H.W. Bush. Met former British Prime Minister John Major at the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce banquet in January of 2000. Also met Miss USA 1991, Kelli McCarty, from Liberal," Picking said. "Also had the chance to meet many wonderful people all across central Kansas."

Additionally, Picking's career involved him in adventures that will be talked about for years to come.

"Well there was the time in 1990 that I wound up as the last car in Vice President Dan Quayle's motorcade coming back to Salina from Abilene," Picking said. 

Picking was mistaken as a Secret Service agent and waved through with the rest of the motorcade.

Then there was the hot air balloon ride on his 21st birthday during a balloon meet. Picking also flew in an aerobatic bi-plane as part of promoting an air show in Salina in the early 1990s.

"My pilot found out it was my birthday and decided to get into a dog fight with another aerobatic plane over eastern Saline County. To go straight up to three thousand feet, and then fall back to Earth is something I'm glad I had the chance to do, but never again," he said.

As is typical for Picking, he used humor to deflect what could have been an embarrassing situation for many people.

"Gave a severe weather safety talk to an elementary school with Bruce Steinbrock. When I asked for questions, a boy sitting up close said 'did you know your fly is open?'  I pitched him a quarter and said 'I would have given you a dollar if you had told me at the beginning of the talk,'" Picking said.

While the memories will linger on, Picking said there are aspects of his career that he will miss.

"I'm going to miss the wonderful listeners I have had to opportunity to meet along with many great and wonderful co-workers. I have been very fortunate to have worked with or for 10 members of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. One hall of famer I want to give a great deal of thanks to and I could never, ever pay him back for how he boosted my career, is Jerry Hinrikus. He believed in me and taught me to believe in myself. We both feel that 'Good enough is not good enough,'" Picking said.

Through the years, though, Picking's family has been his biggest source of support.

"My grandma who would sit and listen for me to do a weather forecast when I first started, my dad who drove me to Kansas City to take my F.C.C. test for my broadcast license, my wife, Vivian, who has put up with all the weird hours and workdays, and the many mood swings, and my sons, Daniel and Jason. Being called 'dad' is the best job title I have ever had."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577756153219.jpeg" alt="Randy Picking records the afternoon news in the KINA studio Monday .&nbsp;Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Randy Picking records the afternoon news in the KINA studio Monday .&nbsp;Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostLongtime Salina radio personality Randy Picking is calling it a career.Picking, current program director for KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM, will bring to an end a nearly 44-year career in radio when he signs off for the final time today.A self-described jack of all trades and master of none, Picking has worked as an announcer, operations manager, program director, account representative, reporter, and news director. Stations he has worked at include KSAL, KYEZ, KABI, KSAJ, KFRM/KNNN, KILS, KQNS, KINA, and KSKG.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757046459.jpeg" alt="Picking shakes hands with former President Ronald Reagan. Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Picking shakes hands with former President Ronald Reagan. Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>Picking said he was bitten by the radio bug early in life."At the age of seven, I developed an interest in radio. In fact, I bought off of the back of a comic book a mini AM transmitter and would place the transmitter next to my record player in my bedroom, announce a record, go outside in the yard at home listen to the record and when it was about to end, come back in a play another record," Picking told Salina Post. Years later, Picking made the jump to a radio career after his father got him an interview at KSAL in the summer of 1975, he said. He began doing color and keeping stats at high school and college games in 1976."I finally got paid as a part-time automation tape changer at KYEZ in 1977," Picking said. "My first full-time job was in 1980 as the evening announcer at KSAL."While he held many positions over the years, Picking said the favorite part of his career was being able to share his passion for the weather."Regardless of the time of the year, I was able to relay weather information to the listeners and hoped it helped them make decisions on postponing a trip, getting their children inside before a storm or heading down to the basement," he said.Picking's career also afforded him the opportunity to meet some famous people."Thanks to covering events at the Eisenhower Library and Museum I had the chance to meet President Ronald Reagan, and President George H.W. Bush. Met former British Prime Minister John Major at the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce banquet in January of 2000. Also met Miss USA 1991, Kelli McCarty, from Liberal," Picking said. "Also had the chance to meet many wonderful people all across central Kansas."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757233718.jpeg" alt="Picking visits with former&nbsp; British Prime Minister John Major. Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Picking visits with former&nbsp; British Prime Minister John Major. Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, Picking's career involved him in adventures that will be talked about for years to come."Well there was the time in 1990 that I wound up as the last car in Vice President Dan Quayle's motorcade coming back to Salina from Abilene," Picking said. Picking was mistaken as a Secret Service agent and waved through with the rest of the motorcade.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757794650.jpeg" alt="Picking in front of Ad Astra before it was placed on top of the state capitol. Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Picking in front of Ad Astra before it was placed on top of the state capitol. Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>Then there was the hot air balloon ride on his 21st birthday during a balloon meet. Picking also flew in an aerobatic bi-plane as part of promoting an air show in Salina in the early 1990s."My pilot found out it was my birthday and decided to get into a dog fight with another aerobatic plane over eastern Saline County. To go straight up to three thousand feet, and then fall back to Earth is something I'm glad I had the chance to do, but never again," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757441858.jpeg" alt="Another of Picking's adventures was playing donkey basketball at Ell-Saline in 1978.&nbsp; (We think the donkey won this one!) Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Another of Picking's adventures was playing donkey basketball at Ell-Saline in 1978.&nbsp; (We think the donkey won this one!) Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>As is typical for Picking, he used humor to deflect what could have been an embarrassing situation for many people."Gave a severe weather safety talk to an elementary school with Bruce Steinbrock. When I asked for questions, a boy sitting up close said 'did you know your fly is open?' I pitched him a quarter and said 'I would have given you a dollar if you had told me at the beginning of the talk,'" Picking said.While the memories will linger on, Picking said there are aspects of his career that he will miss."I'm going to miss the wonderful listeners I have had to opportunity to meet along with many great and wonderful co-workers. I have been very fortunate to have worked with or for 10 members of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. One hall of famer I want to give a great deal of thanks to and I could never, ever pay him back for how he boosted my career, is Jerry Hinrikus. He believed in me and taught me to believe in myself. We both feel that 'Good enough is not good enough,'" Picking said.Through the years, though, Picking's family has been his biggest source of support."My grandma who would sit and listen for me to do a weather forecast when I first started, my dad who drove me to Kansas City to take my F.C.C. test for my broadcast license, my wife, Vivian, who has put up with all the weird hours and workdays, and the many mood swings, and my sons, Daniel and Jason. Being called 'dad' is the best job title I have ever had."

Randy Picking signing off for final time today



Donna M. Zey of Abilene passed away peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2019 at the Memorial Hospital in Abilene. She was born November 30, 1928 in Newton, the daughter of Robert Victor “Vic” and Katherine (Burnett) Johnston.

She graduated from Abilene High School in 1946 and on September 30, 1947 Donna married her high school sweetheart Joseph L. Zey in Abilene. Together they owned and operated Zey’s Market from 1948 until her retirement in 1992.

Donna was a member of the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and the Daughters of Isabella. She is survived by her loving husband Joe of the home, sons John and his wife Joyce of Topeka, Robert and his wife Vicki of Abilene, Rick and his wife Donna of Salina, Steve and his wife Kris of Papillion, Nebraska, daughter-in-law Mary Zey of Abilene, fifteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son David, great grandson Jacob Delimont, brother Jerry Johnston and her parents.

A parish rosary for Donna will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, January 1, 2020 with Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 AM Wednesday at the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church with Father Don Zimmerman as Celebrant. Friends may sign the register book at the funeral home from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday and from 9:00AM – service time Wednesday at the church. Her final resting place will be in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery near Abilene.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church or to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW 3rd, Abilene, Kansas 67410.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577756755478.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Donna M. Zey of Abilene passed away peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2019 at the Memorial Hospital in Abilene. She was born November 30, 1928 in Newton, the daughter of Robert Victor “Vic” and Katherine (Burnett) Johnston.She graduated from Abilene High School in 1946 and on September 30, 1947 Donna married her high school sweetheart Joseph L. Zey in Abilene. Together they owned and operated Zey’s Market from 1948 until her retirement in 1992.Donna was a member of the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and the Daughters of Isabella. She is survived by her loving husband Joe of the home, sons John and his wife Joyce of Topeka, Robert and his wife Vicki of Abilene, Rick and his wife Donna of Salina, Steve and his wife Kris of Papillion, Nebraska, daughter-in-law Mary Zey of Abilene, fifteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son David, great grandson Jacob Delimont, brother Jerry Johnston and her parents.A parish rosary for Donna will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, January 1, 2020 with Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 AM Wednesday at the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church with Father Don Zimmerman as Celebrant. Friends may sign the register book at the funeral home from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday and from 9:00AM – service time Wednesday at the church. Her final resting place will be in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery near Abilene.Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church or to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW 3rd, Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Donna M. Zey

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas detention deputy is recovering after he was assaulted in the Sedgwick County Jail Friday by an inmate with 16 previous convictions in Kansas.

At approximately 10:20 a.m., the detention deputy was escorting an inmate back to a housing unit, according to a statement from the sheriff's department.

 Upon entering the housing unit the inmate, 33-year-old&nbsp;Dylan Hornecker, demanded the housing deputy’s keys and attempted to enter the area of the deputy workstation. 

The inmate was non-compliant and became combative. Detention deputies attempted to gain control of the inmate and Hornecker assaulted the deputies.

The altercation resulted in potentially serious injuries to one of deputies. The deputy was transported to the hospital for treatment and has since been discharged to recover at home. He is a 20-year-old male and has been on the job about six months.

Hornecker had been booked into the jail December 21&nbsp; on a felony State Parole Violation. He is now facing charges for one count of Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer.

His previous convictions include ten for burglary, three for theft and for aggravated assault and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

The new case will be presented to the District Attorney for review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577713909631.png" alt="Hornecker photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hornecker photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas detention deputy is recovering after he was assaulted in the Sedgwick County Jail Friday by an inmate with 16 previous convictions in Kansas.At approximately 10:20 a.m., the detention deputy was escorting an inmate back to a housing unit, according to a statement from the sheriff's department. Upon entering the housing unit the inmate, 33-year-old&nbsp;Dylan Hornecker, demanded the housing deputy’s keys and attempted to enter the area of the deputy workstation. The inmate was non-compliant and became combative. Detention deputies attempted to gain control of the inmate and Hornecker assaulted the deputies.The altercation resulted in potentially serious injuries to one of deputies. The deputy was transported to the hospital for treatment and has since been discharged to recover at home. He is a 20-year-old male and has been on the job about six months.Hornecker had been booked into the jail December 21&nbsp; on a felony State Parole Violation. He is now facing charges for one count of Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer.His previous convictions include ten for burglary, three for theft and for aggravated assault and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.The new case will be presented to the District Attorney for review.