Police say party bus trip turned into robbery

A party bus excursion turned violent early Sunday when one of the partygoers pushed the driver's head into a window and took money, police said.

The Party Hardy bus driver's injuries were minor, but the force broke the window, Wichita police Lt. Doug Nolte said Monday.

Police later arrested the 25- year-old man who is suspected of robbing the driver.

Nolte gave this account: The bus had been rented for a birthday party Saturday night, and several people were aboard. Trouble began when the revelers started using illegal drugs. Police later found what appeared to be illegal drugs on the bus.

When the driver asked that the drug use stop, one of the party-goers "took exception to it," demanded money and threatened and shoved the driver.

Nolte said the party-goer became angry when "he wasn't allowed to party the way he wanted."

The driver — in fear after being shoved — offered the man money, and the man took the cash and left.

—Tim Potter

Wichita man gains KHPA confirmation

TOPEKA — On a 36-0 vote, the state Senate on Monday confirmed Dave Sanford as a member of the Kansas Health Policy Authority.

Sanford is chief executive of GraceMed, a Wichita nonprofit clinic affiliated with the United Methodist Church that provides medical and dental care primarily for low-income patients.

The Health Policy Authority oversees the state's Medicaid system and state employee health plans.

The appointment could be short-lived. Gov. Sam Brownback's budget proposes dismantling the agency and shifting its responsibilities to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Sanford has expressed hope that he would be asked to continue serving if a new advisory panel is established as part of the change.

—Dion Lefler

Red Cross seeks blood donations

The American Red Cross is asking residents to donate blood or platelets after severe winter weather has canceled several blood drives throughout the country, including three in Kansas.

To make an appointment, contact the Red Cross in Wichita at 316-268-0835 or 800-733-2767.

—Eagle staff

This story was originally published January 25, 2011 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Police say party bus trip turned into robbery ."