CINCINNATI (AP) —Kroger and Albertsons will sell more than 400 stores and other assets for about $1.9 billion, seeking to clear a path for a merger with antitrust regulators reviewing a deal that would unify two of the nation’s largest grocery chains.

The 413 stores, along with QFC, Mariano’s and Carrs brand names, are being sold to to C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers. Kroger will also divest the Debi Lilly Design, Primo Taglio, Open Nature, ReadyMeals and Waterfront Bistro private label brands. In addition, C&amp;S will get eight distribution centers and two offices.

All fuel centers and pharmacies associated with the divested stores will remain with the stores and continue to operate.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9" target="_blank">Kroger</a>&nbsp;and Albertsons agreed to merge in October. Kroger, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, bid $20 billion for Albertsons. Kroger would also assume $4.7 billion of Albertsons’ debt. The deal is targeted to close early next year. Kroger is the parent company of Dillons.

The grocery chains say they must merge to compete with Walmart, Amazon and other major companies that have stepped into the grocery business. And there is significant consolidation throughout the grocery sector as companies fight with rising prices for everything from food to workers.

Last month, discount grocer Aldi said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aldi-winndixie-harveys-groceries-5a19b6cbf58110b8921c5852d8cbd9ae" target="_blank">plans to buy</a>&nbsp;400 Winn-Dixie and Harveys supermarkets in the southern U.S.

Before the deal with C&amp;S closes, Kroger may, in connection with securing Federal Trade Commission and other governmental clearance, require C&amp;S to buy up to an additional 237 stores in certain regions. If more stores are added to the agreement, C&amp;S will pay Kroger an additional as-yet-to-be-determined financial amount.

C&amp;S, which was founded in 1918, is a supplier to independent grocery stores, supplying more than 7,500 independent supermarkets, retail chain stores and military bases. It currently runs Grand Union grocery stores and Piggly Wiggly franchise and corporate-owned stores in the Midwest and Carolinas.

C&amp;S has prior experience with divestitures related to mergers and has successfully transitioned union employees and their associated collective bargaining agreements in the past.

“Importantly in our agreement, C&amp;S commits to honoring all collective bargaining agreements which include industry-leading benefits, retaining frontline associates and further investing for growth,” Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen said in a statement on Friday.

Shares of Kroger Co., based in Ohio, rose 5% Thursday and Albertsons Cos., based in Idaho, rose 3%.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594908518471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CINCINNATI (AP) —Kroger and Albertsons will sell more than 400 stores and other assets for about $1.9 billion, seeking to clear a path for a merger with antitrust regulators reviewing a deal that would unify two of the nation’s largest grocery chains.The 413 stores, along with QFC, Mariano’s and Carrs brand names, are being sold to to C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers. Kroger will also divest the Debi Lilly Design, Primo Taglio, Open Nature, ReadyMeals and Waterfront Bistro private label brands. In addition, C&amp;S will get eight distribution centers and two offices.All fuel centers and pharmacies associated with the divested stores will remain with the stores and continue to operate.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9" target="_blank">Kroger</a>&nbsp;and Albertsons agreed to merge in October. Kroger, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, bid $20 billion for Albertsons. Kroger would also assume $4.7 billion of Albertsons’ debt. The deal is targeted to close early next year. Kroger is the parent company of Dillons.The grocery chains say they must merge to compete with Walmart, Amazon and other major companies that have stepped into the grocery business. And there is significant consolidation throughout the grocery sector as companies fight with rising prices for everything from food to workers.Last month, discount grocer Aldi said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/aldi-winndixie-harveys-groceries-5a19b6cbf58110b8921c5852d8cbd9ae" target="_blank">plans to buy</a>&nbsp;400 Winn-Dixie and Harveys supermarkets in the southern U.S.Before the deal with C&amp;S closes, Kroger may, in connection with securing Federal Trade Commission and other governmental clearance, require C&amp;S to buy up to an additional 237 stores in certain regions. If more stores are added to the agreement, C&amp;S will pay Kroger an additional as-yet-to-be-determined financial amount.C&amp;S, which was founded in 1918, is a supplier to independent grocery stores, supplying more than 7,500 independent supermarkets, retail chain stores and military bases. It currently runs Grand Union grocery stores and Piggly Wiggly franchise and corporate-owned stores in the Midwest and Carolinas.C&amp;S has prior experience with divestitures related to mergers and has successfully transitioned union employees and their associated collective bargaining agreements in the past.“Importantly in our agreement, C&amp;S commits to honoring all collective bargaining agreements which include industry-leading benefits, retaining frontline associates and further investing for growth,” Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen said in a statement on Friday.Shares of Kroger Co., based in Ohio, rose 5% Thursday and Albertsons Cos., based in Idaho, rose 3%.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kroger will sell stores in a bid to clear merger of the 2 largest US groceries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — New life was brought into the world on opening day at the Kansas State Fair Friday.&nbsp;Kansas State University veterinary students helped deliver two female lambs in the birthing center on Friday afternoon.

In addition to seeing new life born, fairgoers have an opportunity for a  more in-depth view of Kansas livestock. At the top of each hour, professional livestock company Moo U gives about a 40 minute guided tour of each livestock building on the fairgrounds.&nbsp;

"[We] tell the folks about general livestock, where their food comes from and also talk about some of the by-products that we get from them that all of us use every day in our daily lives," said&nbsp; Jeannene Xanthus, owner of Moo U.&nbsp;

Moo U is based out of Celeste, Texas and is the only professional livestock tour company in the United States. The birthing center and other buildings featuring live animals are located on 20th Ave.&nbsp;

More information about Moo U is available at <a href="https://www.mooutours.com/">mooutours.com&nbsp;</a>

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694273953003.jpeg" alt="A newborn lamb peeks out at the 2023 Kansas State Fair-Photo by Emmie Boese" />
 <figcaption>A newborn lamb peeks out at the 2023 Kansas State Fair-Photo by Emmie Boese</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — New life was brought into the world on opening day at the Kansas State Fair Friday.&nbsp;Kansas State University veterinary students helped deliver two female lambs in the birthing center on Friday afternoon.In addition to seeing new life born, fairgoers have an opportunity for a more in-depth view of Kansas livestock. At the top of each hour, professional livestock company Moo U gives about a 40 minute guided tour of each livestock building on the fairgrounds.&nbsp;"[We] tell the folks about general livestock, where their food comes from and also talk about some of the by-products that we get from them that all of us use every day in our daily lives," said&nbsp; Jeannene Xanthus, owner of Moo U.&nbsp;Moo U is based out of Celeste, Texas and is the only professional livestock tour company in the United States. The birthing center and other buildings featuring live animals are located on 20th Ave.&nbsp;More information about Moo U is available at <a href="https://www.mooutours.com/">mooutours.com&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

New life, new learning about livestock at Kansas State Fair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson Youth Council is taking applications for the 2023-2024 school year for a few more days. The vision of the council is to empower youth dedicated to personal development and servant leadership. 

If you are interested in applying for a position on the council, please complete the <a href="file:///C:/Users/Nick/Downloads/2023-2024YCCAPP.pdf">application</a>.

Applicants must attend a school located in the City of Hutchinson. 

All applicants must be entering grades 7-12.

President is restricted to a high school student, Vice President is an 8th grade student, Treasurer is a high school student, Secretary is a 7th grade student and Activities Director is a high school student.&nbsp;

Regular meetings of the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be held once a month on the third Tuesday of the month, at 6:00 p.m. The principal meeting place of the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be Hutchinson City Hall. Matters for consideration by the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be presented only at Hutchinson Youth City Council meetings.

Special meetings may be called upon the request of the President. Request for special meetings shall be sent via electronic mail, or by telephone, to the Hutchinson Youth City Council Advisory Board at least forty-eight (48) hours before the time of the meeting.

This request shall include the reason or reasons for requesting the special meeting. The Hutchinson Youth City Council Advisory Board shall notify every member of the Hutchinson Youth City Council via electronic mail or by telephone. No subjects other than those stated in the notice shall be considered at the special meeting.

All meetings of the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be open to the public.

Applications are due Sept 13th and can be emailed to: <a href="mailto:hutchyouthcitycouncil@gmail.com">hutchyouthcitycouncil@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665839596236.png" alt="Hutch Youth Council" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Youth Council</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson Youth Council is taking applications for the 2023-2024 school year for a few more days. The vision of the council is to empower youth dedicated to personal development and servant leadership. If you are interested in applying for a position on the council, please complete the <a href="file:///C:/Users/Nick/Downloads/2023-2024YCCAPP.pdf">application</a>.Applicants must attend a school located in the City of Hutchinson. All applicants must be entering grades 7-12.President is restricted to a high school student, Vice President is an 8th grade student, Treasurer is a high school student, Secretary is a 7th grade student and Activities Director is a high school student.&nbsp;Regular meetings of the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be held once a month on the third Tuesday of the month, at 6:00 p.m. The principal meeting place of the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be Hutchinson City Hall. Matters for consideration by the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be presented only at Hutchinson Youth City Council meetings.Special meetings may be called upon the request of the President. Request for special meetings shall be sent via electronic mail, or by telephone, to the Hutchinson Youth City Council Advisory Board at least forty-eight (48) hours before the time of the meeting.This request shall include the reason or reasons for requesting the special meeting. The Hutchinson Youth City Council Advisory Board shall notify every member of the Hutchinson Youth City Council via electronic mail or by telephone. No subjects other than those stated in the notice shall be considered at the special meeting.All meetings of the Hutchinson Youth City Council shall be open to the public.Applications are due Sept 13th and can be emailed to: <a href="mailto:hutchyouthcitycouncil@gmail.com">hutchyouthcitycouncil@gmail.com</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutchinson Youth City Council applications due next Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fee Insurance Group, headquartered in Hutchinson said on social media Thursday it has been listed as a Best Place to Work in Insurance in the nation by&nbsp;Business Insurance. This is the second year in a row that the company has been recognized for this honor.

The overall score and ranking is a combination of the employee survey, employer questionnaire, and overall positive response rate from employees for company alignment across eight core focus areas: Leadership and Planning, Corporate Culture and Communications, Role Satisfaction, Work Environment, Relationship with Supervisor, Training, Development and Resources, Pay and Benefits, and Overall Engagement.

Best Places to Work in Insurance is an annual sponsored content feature presented by the custom publishing unit of&nbsp;Business Insurance&nbsp;and Best Companies Group that lists the agents, brokers, insurance companies and other providers with the highest levels of employee engagement and satisfaction.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694256579692.jpeg" alt="Business Insurance" />
 <figcaption>Business Insurance</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fee Insurance Group, headquartered in Hutchinson said on social media Thursday it has been listed as a Best Place to Work in Insurance in the nation by&nbsp;Business Insurance. This is the second year in a row that the company has been recognized for this honor.The overall score and ranking is a combination of the employee survey, employer questionnaire, and overall positive response rate from employees for company alignment across eight core focus areas: Leadership and Planning, Corporate Culture and Communications, Role Satisfaction, Work Environment, Relationship with Supervisor, Training, Development and Resources, Pay and Benefits, and Overall Engagement.Best Places to Work in Insurance is an annual sponsored content feature presented by the custom publishing unit of&nbsp;Business Insurance&nbsp;and Best Companies Group that lists the agents, brokers, insurance companies and other providers with the highest levels of employee engagement and satisfaction.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Fee Insurance Best Place to Work for second straight year

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks | Eisenhower Building

Butter Sculpture sponsopred by Southwest Dairy Farmers | Pride of Kansas&nbsp;

Construction Careers Alliance for Kansas | Ad Astra&nbsp;

FFA/4H Exhibit Displays | 4h Centennial Hall, Kansas Showcase&nbsp;

FFA/4H Exhibit Displays | 4H Centennial Hall, Kansas Showcase

Competitive Exhibits Displays | Oz Gallery, Domestic Arts Building, Lake Talbott East, Lake Talbott West, Pride of Kansas Building

Reno Couty Community Quilt | Domestic Arts Building&nbsp;

Open Pigeons/Poultry Display | Poultry Building Display

Open Rabbit Display | Rabbit Building&nbsp;

7:30 AM Quarter Horse Versatility Show | Expo II

8:00 AM 4H/FFA Beef Market Show | Prairie Pavilion

8:00 AM 4H/FFA Meat Goat Market Show | Livestock Annex

8:00 4H/FFA Sheep Show | Sheep, Swine and Goat Building&nbsp;

8:00 AM 4H/FFA Swine Market Show | Sheep, Swine and Goat Building&nbsp;

9:00 AM Artistic Drawing Demo | Oz Gallery&nbsp;

9:00 AM&nbsp; Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

10:00 AM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

11:00 AM&nbsp; Honey Demo | Pride of Kansas Building

10:00 AM&nbsp; Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland

10:00 AM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center&nbsp;

10:00 AM Moo Ricotta Cheese Demo | Domestic Arts Building

10:30 AM WIBW Live Ag Forum&nbsp; | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

11:00 AM&nbsp; Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

11:00 AM&nbsp; Chainsaw Woodcarvers | Lake Talbott

11:00 AM Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland&nbsp;

11:00 AM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

11:00 AM Glenda and Mike's Magic and Ventriloquism Show | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott

12:00 PM Kenny Ahren - Family Variety Theater | Family Variety Theater

12:00 PM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

12:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

12:00 PM Ricotta Cheese Demo | Domestic Arts Building

12:00 PM The Parr Family | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott&nbsp;

1:00 PM Butter Sculpture Contest | Pride of Kansas Building

1:00 PM Celebrity Grape Stomp | Gottschalk Park Gazebo&nbsp;

1:00 PM Chainsaw Woodcarvers | Lake Talbott

1:00 PM Kansas Kountree Kloggers | Capper Building

1:00 PM Kevin Horner - Ventriloquist Family Fair Show | Family Variety Theater

1:00 PM Legislative Showmanship | Prairie Pavilion

1:00 PM Ron Diamond Hypnotist | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

1:30 PM Pies, Pies, and More Pies Contest | Domestic Arts Building

2:00 Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center

2:00 PM Kenny Ahern - Family Variety Theatre | Family Variety Theatre

2:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

2:00 PM Nutz and Boltz | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

2:00 PM Talmage Quartet | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott

2:30 PM 4H/FFA Commercial Heifer Show&nbsp; | Prairie Pavilion

3:00 PM Chainsaw Woodcarvers |Lake Talbott

3:00 PM Kevin Horner - Ventriloquist Family Fair Show | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott&nbsp;

3:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

3:00 PM Ron Diamond Hypnotist |&nbsp;Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

4:00 PM Dennis Laffon - The Piano Man |&nbsp;Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

4:00 PM Holy Cross Catholic Church Service | Encampment Building - Hansen Auditorium

4:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

4:00 PM Kenny Ahern - Family Variety Theatre | Family Variety Theatre

4:00 PM Talmage Quartet | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott

5:00 PM Chainsaw Woodcarvers | Lake Talbott

5:00 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Horner - Ventriloquist Family Fair Show | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott

5:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center

6:00 PM 4H/FFA Grand Drive | Prairie Pavilion

6:00 PM&nbsp;IFLP | Gottschalk Park and Stage&nbsp;

6:00 PM Kenny Ahern - Family Variety Theatre | Family Variety Theatre

6:00 PM Ron Diamond Hypnotist | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena&nbsp;

6:00 PM The Parr Family | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott

7:00 PM Great Plains Jazz Orchestra | Capper Building&nbsp;

7:00 PM Hunter Flynn | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott

7:00 PM&nbsp; The Other Guys |&nbsp; Peoples Bank and Trust Arena

7:00 PM Carly Pearce with Megan Moroney and Lauren Watkins | Nex-Tech Grandstand

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632137511353.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Fair file photo-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Fair file photo-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>ALL Day Every Day&nbsp;Wood Carving Demo | Oz Gallery&nbsp;Llama Exhibit | Dairyland&nbsp;Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks | Eisenhower BuildingButter Sculpture sponsopred by Southwest Dairy Farmers | Pride of Kansas&nbsp;Agriland | Pride of Kansas&nbsp;Construction Careers Alliance for Kansas | Ad Astra&nbsp;FFA/4H Exhibit Displays | 4h Centennial Hall, Kansas Showcase&nbsp;FFA/4H Exhibit Displays | 4H Centennial Hall, Kansas ShowcaseCompetitive Exhibits Displays | Oz Gallery, Domestic Arts Building, Lake Talbott East, Lake Talbott West, Pride of Kansas BuildingKDHE Mobile Lab | 509 Bison Blvd.&nbsp;Reno Couty Community Quilt | Domestic Arts Building&nbsp;Open Pigeons/Poultry Display | Poultry Building DisplayOpen Rabbit Display | Rabbit Building&nbsp;Daily Schedule&nbsp;7:30 AM Quarter Horse Versatility Show | Expo II8:00 AM 4H/FFA Beef Market Show | Prairie Pavilion8:00 AM 4H/FFA Meat Goat Market Show | Livestock Annex8:00 4H/FFA Sheep Show | Sheep, Swine and Goat Building&nbsp;8:00 AM 4H/FFA Swine Market Show | Sheep, Swine and Goat Building&nbsp;8:00 AM Working Equitation Show| Expo II9:00 AM Artistic Drawing Demo | Oz Gallery&nbsp;9:00 AM&nbsp; Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center10:00 AM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center11:00 AM&nbsp; Honey Demo | Pride of Kansas Building10:00 AM&nbsp; Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland10:00 AM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center&nbsp;10:00 AM Moo Ricotta Cheese Demo | Domestic Arts Building10:30 AM WIBW Live Ag Forum&nbsp; | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena11:00 AM&nbsp; Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center11:00 AM&nbsp; Chainsaw Woodcarvers | Lake Talbott11:00 AM Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland&nbsp;11:00 AM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center11:00 AM Glenda and Mike's Magic and Ventriloquism Show | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott12:00 PM Kenny Ahren - Family Variety Theater | Family Variety Theater12:00 PM Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland12:00 PM Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center12:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center12:00 PM Ricotta Cheese Demo | Domestic Arts Building12:00 PM The Parr Family | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott&nbsp;1:00 PM Butter Sculpture Contest | Pride of Kansas Building1:00 PM Celebrity Grape Stomp | Gottschalk Park Gazebo&nbsp;1:00 PM Chainsaw Woodcarvers | Lake Talbott1:00 PM Kansas Kountree Kloggers | Capper Building1:00 PM Kevin Horner - Ventriloquist Family Fair Show | Family Variety Theater1:00 PM Legislative Showmanship | Prairie Pavilion1:00 PM Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland1:00 PM Ron Diamond Hypnotist | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena1:30 PM Pies, Pies, and More Pies Contest | Domestic Arts Building2:00 Dr. Goddard's Lab | Education Center2:00 PM IFLP | Gottschalk Park and Stage2:00 PM Kenny Ahern - Family Variety Theatre | Family Variety Theatre2:00 PM Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland2:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center2:00 PM Nutz and Boltz | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena2:00 PM Talmage Quartet | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott2:30 PM 4H/FFA Commercial Heifer Show&nbsp; | Prairie Pavilion3:00 PM Chainsaw Woodcarvers |Lake Talbott3:00 PM Kevin Horner - Ventriloquist Family Fair Show | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott&nbsp;3:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center3:00 PM Ron Diamond Hypnotist |&nbsp;Peoples Bank and Trust Arena4:00 PM Dennis Laffon - The Piano Man |&nbsp;Peoples Bank and Trust Arena4:00 PM Holy Cross Catholic Church Service | Encampment Building - Hansen Auditorium4:00 PM IFLP | Gottschalk Park and Stage4:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center4:00 PM Cowboy Circus | Fairgrounds4:00 PM Kenny Ahern - Family Variety Theatre | Family Variety Theatre4:00 PM Talmage Quartet | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott5:00 PM Chainsaw Woodcarvers | Lake Talbott5:00 PM&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Horner - Ventriloquist Family Fair Show | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott5:00 PM Moo U-Guided Barn Tours | Birthing Center6:00 PM 4H/FFA Grand Drive | Prairie Pavilion6:00 PM&nbsp;IFLP | Gottschalk Park and Stage&nbsp;6:00 PM Kenny Ahern - Family Variety Theatre | Family Variety Theatre6:00 PM Milking Parlor Demo | Dairyland6:00 PM Cowboy Circus | Fairgrounds6:00 PM Ron Diamond Hypnotist | Peoples Bank and Trust Arena&nbsp;6:00 PM The Parr Family | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott7:00 PM Great Plains Jazz Orchestra | Capper Building&nbsp;7:00 PM Hunter Flynn | Lowen Corporation Stage at Lake Talbott7:00 PM&nbsp; The Other Guys |&nbsp; Peoples Bank and Trust Arena7:00 PM Carly Pearce with Megan Moroney and Lauren Watkins | Nex-Tech Grandstand<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Kansas State Fair schedule: Saturday, September 9, 2023

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

9/8/2023 11:19 PM-Dakotah	Matthew Cronk-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance

9/8/2023 10:23 PM-Audra	Lynn Legron-Viol protection order; Abuse order

9/8/2023 8:51 PM-Lacy	Rachelle Lomax-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

9/8/2023 7:23 PM-Brayden	Makai Norman-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate

9/8/2023 3:05 PM-Avila		Maynor	Leonel Velasquez-Poss of marijuana

9/8/2023 1:16 PM-Gabriel Nieves-Viol protection order; Abuse order

9/8/2023 1:01 PM-Edana	Rae Suffield-Viol protection order; Abuse order

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="Bracelets" />
 <figcaption>Bracelets</figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9/8/2023 11:19 PM-Dakotah	Matthew Cronk-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order; Interfere w/ LEO; unknown circumstance9/8/2023 10:23 PM-Audra	Lynn Legron-Viol protection order; Abuse order9/8/2023 8:51 PM-Lacy	Rachelle Lomax-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)9/8/2023 7:23 PM-Brayden	Makai Norman-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate9/8/2023 3:05 PM-Avila		Maynor	Leonel Velasquez-Poss of marijuana9/8/2023 1:16 PM-Gabriel Nieves-Viol protection order; Abuse order9/8/2023 1:01 PM-Edana	Rae Suffield-Viol protection order; Abuse order

Daily Bookings

RENO COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 5 p.m. Friday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1987 Buick Century driven by Janice L. Richardson, 77, Partridge, was northbound on Partridge Road and stopped at the stop sign at Kansas 61.

The Buick then attempted to drive across Kansas 61. A 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Ronald Lee Johnson, 57, Moundridge, that was traveling northeast on Kansas 61 and the Buick collided in the intersection.

EMS transported Richardson to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries. Johnson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563220381654.png" alt="Fatal" />
 <figcaption>Fatal</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 5 p.m. Friday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1987 Buick Century driven by Janice L. Richardson, 77, Partridge, was northbound on Partridge Road and stopped at the stop sign at Kansas 61.The Buick then attempted to drive across Kansas 61. A 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Ronald Lee Johnson, 57, Moundridge, that was traveling northeast on Kansas 61 and the Buick collided in the intersection.EMS transported Richardson to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries. Johnson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Reno Co. woman dies after crash with a semi

Kansas Department of Transportation

NEWTON, Kan. — KDOT is hosting nine meetings this fall as part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) Local Consult process. KDOT holds Local Consult meetings every two years to discuss regional transportation project priorities with Kansans.

Attendees will have an opportunity to share their region’s transportation priorities, hear about investments being made in transportation in their area, and learn about various grant funding programs available through KDOT.

A Local Consult meeting will be held on Thursday, Oct. 5 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Newton.

These meetings are an important step in gathering public input for the IKE program – the state’s current 10-year transportation improvement program. They are open to all Kansans.

In advance of the Local Consult meetings, KDOT has launched a short survey asking for input on the Kansas transportation system. 

The survey will be available online through September 22 at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnN1cnZleW1vbmtleS5jb20vci9LRE9UTEMyMDIzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MDguODIzMjExNjEifQ.H6FHX57K7_-a_dCLRzYP1XNAviTXRkIRymJUqC-jUIM/s/2129667343/br/225548668516-l" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KDOTLC2023</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686078929586.png" alt="kdot ike logo.png" />
 <figcaption>kdot ike logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationNEWTON, Kan. — KDOT is hosting nine meetings this fall as part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) Local Consult process. KDOT holds Local Consult meetings every two years to discuss regional transportation project priorities with Kansans.Attendees will have an opportunity to share their region’s transportation priorities, hear about investments being made in transportation in their area, and learn about various grant funding programs available through KDOT.A Local Consult meeting will be held on Thursday, Oct. 5 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Newton.These meetings are an important step in gathering public input for the IKE program – the state’s current 10-year transportation improvement program. They are open to all Kansans.In advance of the Local Consult meetings, KDOT has launched a short survey asking for input on the Kansas transportation system. The survey will be available online through September 22 at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LnN1cnZleW1vbmtleS5jb20vci9LRE9UTEMyMDIzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MDguODIzMjExNjEifQ.H6FHX57K7_-a_dCLRzYP1XNAviTXRkIRymJUqC-jUIM/s/2129667343/br/225548668516-l" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KDOTLC2023</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

KDOT Local Consult meeting in Newton next month

HAYS, Kan. — ELI Wireline Services is hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for its oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.

Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out-of-state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles and equipment is also involved. 24/7 on-call rotation is also a requirement of this position.

Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays.

If interested, please apply within at 1327 Rome Rd., Hays, KS 67601.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691617551449.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. — ELI Wireline Services is hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for its oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out-of-state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles and equipment is also involved. 24/7 on-call rotation is also a requirement of this position.Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K and a competitive salary. This position is based out of Hays.If interested, please apply within at 1327 Rome Rd., Hays, KS 67601.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AAA: Gas prices in Kansas going up, as are demand numbers

MCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson Police Department is investigating an aggravated battery case involving a local college student that occurred early Friday morning.

At 3:56 a.m., McPherson County Emergency Communications/911 received report of a possible vehicle rollover on 56 Hwy, near 19th Avenue in McPherson County. McPherson County Sheriff’s Deputies responded and found a vehicle off the roadway. 

The driver of the vehicle an 18-year-old male college student in McPherson, was also found in the area. The male had injuries, which he said were caused by an unknown person. No one else was found in the area at that time. McPherson Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported the male to McPherson Center for Care and he was later flown to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment. The male is in critical condition. The extent of his injuries is unknown. 

Further investigation continues by the McPherson Police Department, who has requested assistance from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

The McPherson Police Department asks anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the department at (620) 245-1266 or McPherson County Crime Stoppers at (620) 241-1122.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694190416892.jpeg" alt="McPherson Police" />
 <figcaption>McPherson Police</figcaption>
 </figure>McPherson Police DepartmentMCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson Police Department is investigating an aggravated battery case involving a local college student that occurred early Friday morning.At 3:56 a.m., McPherson County Emergency Communications/911 received report of a possible vehicle rollover on 56 Hwy, near 19th Avenue in McPherson County. McPherson County Sheriff’s Deputies responded and found a vehicle off the roadway. The driver of the vehicle an 18-year-old male college student in McPherson, was also found in the area. The male had injuries, which he said were caused by an unknown person. No one else was found in the area at that time. McPherson Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported the male to McPherson Center for Care and he was later flown to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment. The male is in critical condition. The extent of his injuries is unknown. Further investigation continues by the McPherson Police Department, who has requested assistance from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.The McPherson Police Department asks anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the department at (620) 245-1266 or McPherson County Crime Stoppers at (620) 241-1122.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

College student critically injured, found near McPherson Friday

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with The Stop Trafficking Project founder Russ Tuttle.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694191437562.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Po4l1F14GTs?si=bHoTmPvWOyfJM5SY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with The Stop Trafficking Project founder Russ Tuttle.&nbsp;

🎤 Forward Ever: Stop Trafficking Project founder Russ Tuttle

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Comedian Byron Kennedy is opening Sunday night for Rob Schneider at the Kansas State Fair. His career was in the radio and records industry before leaving there to become a stand up comic.

"It's funny, because when I went into radio originally, that's what I wanted to do," Kennedy said. "I wanted to entertain people. I always dreamed of being a stand up comic, but I didn't have the courage, to be honest with you. It seemed terrifying to me. I couldn't think of anything scarier than stand up comedy. On the radio just felt a little safer to me. On the radio, you don't see the audience. In your mind, they're always laughing. You're always killing it."

The process of getting material that works is a grind.

"To get the consistency, you just have to do it," Kennedy said. "You just have to get on stage, get on stage, get on stage. You have to fail many, many, many times. You have to be willing to fail many times. When I first started doing Las Vegas, it's the hardest city in America to do comedy and it will beat you up and it will make you question your sanity and it will make you want to quit, especially, when you start breaking into the Vegas scene, you're going to be doing midnight shows. You're going to be up there opening for drunk crowds that really don't care what you have to say, and you just have to figure it out."

Kennedy said his style is just to tell people what he's experienced.

"I don't know, I seem to have a lot of crazy things happen to me all the time," Kennedy said. "You tell those stories in an interesting, fun way that hopefully resonates. The State Fair show is definitely going to be a little different than the Las Vegas show. It will be a lot more family-friendly."

The Grandstand show starts at 7:30 p.m. Sunday. You can still buy tickets <a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/8863059/rob-schneider-with-byron-kennedy-hutchinson-kansas-state-fair?_gl=1*cb4hiv*_ga*NzI2ODM1NDcwLjE2OTQxODUzNTM.*_ga_NLKK0GK84T*MTY5NDE4NTM1My4xLjEuMTY5NDE4NjAyNi41OS4wLjA.&amp;_ga=2.107140353.2093124187.1694185353-726835470.1694185353">online</a>.

Below is the podcast of Byron's interview with Nick Gosnell...

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694185850905.jpeg" alt="Byron Kennedy-Photo courtesy Byron Kennedy" />
 <figcaption>Byron Kennedy-Photo courtesy Byron Kennedy</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Comedian Byron Kennedy is opening Sunday night for Rob Schneider at the Kansas State Fair. His career was in the radio and records industry before leaving there to become a stand up comic."It's funny, because when I went into radio originally, that's what I wanted to do," Kennedy said. "I wanted to entertain people. I always dreamed of being a stand up comic, but I didn't have the courage, to be honest with you. It seemed terrifying to me. I couldn't think of anything scarier than stand up comedy. On the radio just felt a little safer to me. On the radio, you don't see the audience. In your mind, they're always laughing. You're always killing it."The process of getting material that works is a grind."To get the consistency, you just have to do it," Kennedy said. "You just have to get on stage, get on stage, get on stage. You have to fail many, many, many times. You have to be willing to fail many times. When I first started doing Las Vegas, it's the hardest city in America to do comedy and it will beat you up and it will make you question your sanity and it will make you want to quit, especially, when you start breaking into the Vegas scene, you're going to be doing midnight shows. You're going to be up there opening for drunk crowds that really don't care what you have to say, and you just have to figure it out."Kennedy said his style is just to tell people what he's experienced."I don't know, I seem to have a lot of crazy things happen to me all the time," Kennedy said. "You tell those stories in an interesting, fun way that hopefully resonates. The State Fair show is definitely going to be a little different than the Las Vegas show. It will be a lot more family-friendly."The Grandstand show starts at 7:30 p.m. Sunday. You can still buy tickets <a href="https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/8863059/rob-schneider-with-byron-kennedy-hutchinson-kansas-state-fair?_gl=1*cb4hiv*_ga*NzI2ODM1NDcwLjE2OTQxODUzNTM.*_ga_NLKK0GK84T*MTY5NDE4NTM1My4xLjEuMTY5NDE4NjAyNi41OS4wLjA.&amp;_ga=2.107140353.2093124187.1694185353-726835470.1694185353">online</a>.Below is the podcast of Byron's interview with Nick Gosnell...<div><iframe title="Comedian Byron Kennedy" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9j7nq-1495878-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Kennedy: Comedy 'seemed terrifying', but now it's talking about life

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the 2023 Kansas State Fair opening Friday, General Manager Bryan Schulz was on the KWBW morning show live from the Fairgrounds and noted some of the improvements made for this year's Fair, including the walking surface in much of the grounds.&nbsp;

"Right now, we spent close to a million dollars, it will be closer to $2 million when we get done. The legislature a couple of years ago, gave us some monies to start upgrading, one of them was for asphalt and we have put down a lot of asphalt on these grounds."

There is also a new integrated PA system that is the largest by area covered in the state.

"That was another part of the monies that we got from the legislature," Schulz said. "When I started, it was, okay, how do we tell people, we're in tornado alley, how do we tell people that there could be imminent weather? How do we tell people that we've got a lost child? How do we tell people you've triple parked, please move your car. We worked with Hopp's Sound out of McPherson and the sound system that we have is absolutely phenomenal. We've been able to create 19 different emergency announcements by the push of a button, both in English and Spanish. That can tell people that we've got a storm coming, but then we're also able to play a little bit of background music and be able to talk to people as they are coming and going."

The hope is that the fair can get back to the pre-COVID attendance numbers they had a few years back.

"We're hoping to get to 350,000, absolutely," Schulz said. "That's kind of the average we had prior to COVID. We're hoping to gain back up into that."

The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 8 to 17 in Hutchinson.

Below is the interview with Bryan Schulz from the KWBW Morning Show.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632137691150.jpeg" alt="KSF Grandstand File-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>KSF Grandstand File-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the 2023 Kansas State Fair opening Friday, General Manager Bryan Schulz was on the KWBW morning show live from the Fairgrounds and noted some of the improvements made for this year's Fair, including the walking surface in much of the grounds.&nbsp;"Right now, we spent close to a million dollars, it will be closer to $2 million when we get done. The legislature a couple of years ago, gave us some monies to start upgrading, one of them was for asphalt and we have put down a lot of asphalt on these grounds."There is also a new integrated PA system that is the largest by area covered in the state."That was another part of the monies that we got from the legislature," Schulz said. "When I started, it was, okay, how do we tell people, we're in tornado alley, how do we tell people that there could be imminent weather? How do we tell people that we've got a lost child? How do we tell people you've triple parked, please move your car. We worked with Hopp's Sound out of McPherson and the sound system that we have is absolutely phenomenal. We've been able to create 19 different emergency announcements by the push of a button, both in English and Spanish. That can tell people that we've got a storm coming, but then we're also able to play a little bit of background music and be able to talk to people as they are coming and going."The hope is that the fair can get back to the pre-COVID attendance numbers they had a few years back."We're hoping to get to 350,000, absolutely," Schulz said. "That's kind of the average we had prior to COVID. We're hoping to gain back up into that."The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 8 to 17 in Hutchinson.Below is the interview with Bryan Schulz from the KWBW Morning Show.<div><iframe title="Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=qfqy3-149e7f0-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=c73a3a" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Improvements to Fair include asphalt, PA system

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Now that the permanent hire of a police chief is behind them, the Hutchinson City Council will begin narrowing the field for a permanent City Manager hire.

"We've narrowed it down to 12 out of the over 40 applicants," said Mayor Jon Richardson. "The next step, over the next week or two, is for council members to narrow that down to three to four to invite for in person interviews."

Those interviews would likely happen late this month or early next month, but given the amount of notice a currently working City Manager would need to give to their employer, it could be the first of the year before a permanent hire is in place and working.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Now that the permanent hire of a police chief is behind them, the Hutchinson City Council will begin narrowing the field for a permanent City Manager hire."We've narrowed it down to 12 out of the over 40 applicants," said Mayor Jon Richardson. "The next step, over the next week or two, is for council members to narrow that down to three to four to invite for in person interviews."Those interviews would likely happen late this month or early next month, but given the amount of notice a currently working City Manager would need to give to their employer, it could be the first of the year before a permanent hire is in place and working.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Permanent city manager process continuing forward

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Phil Nightingale with Mel Hambleton Ford addressed the Kansas State Fair Board at their organizational meeting on Thursday to ask them if he could be allowed to put together a proposal to run races at the half mile oval at the fairgrounds.

"I understand, the fair's got to make money,"&nbsp;Nightingale said. "I think there's a way to make money with a racetrack. I think that there's been a lot of things that hasn't worked well for the fair. I think there's ways that we can go about it. I've got a lot of people that have talked to me about trying to promote the track, sponsor the track, sell different things. To run once or twice a year, I get it. That doesn't make it work. Having all that ground setting there empty all the time. I get that doesn't make it work, but can we come to some kind of a compromise to where you guys can have your events there too, while we still have racing?"

Nightingale has spoken to a sanctioning body about his interest in running at the Fairgrounds.

"I did talk to the head person of IMCA last night at the track, while I was up there at Boone, Iowa. I told him what I was looking at and stuff like that. He's excited. He wants me to meet back with him when I get back there this afternoon."

Tentatively, Nightingale would like to run one race a month April to October, starting with IMCA to get things going. 

James Fisher with the Fairgrounds Foundation, who was also there to present on a separate topic, brought up the elephant in the room regarding using the racetrack more often.

"Expo I is our most rented facility on the grounds for horse shows 40 to 45 weekends a year," Fisher said. "Horse shows will not come in if they are doing races on the same weekend, because they can't. Neither will the other venues down there on that side of the track. That consideration is something the board will have to look at, as well."

The board also was sent a letter with some proposals from C. Ray Hall, who has promoted the Hutchinson Nationals and Fairgrounds events since 1975. Hall's proposals did not seem like something the board was as likely to consider, because of the agreement regarding race promotion Hall has after selling 81 Speedway in Park City in 2019.

Ultimately, the board is going to take the subject back up at its meeting on Thursday. They seem to be leaning in the direction of at least allowing Nightingale the time to put together a formal proposal, which he believes he can get done by the fair board's November meeting.&nbsp;

State Fair manager Bryan Schulz believes it would be a considerable cost to get the track in shape to race a monthly schedule.

"How much money are you willing to put into that track?" asked Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz. "In talking to the gentleman at 81 Speedway, to redo his walls, to redo his lighting, was about $3.5 million. I'll just put this out on the table, $3.5 million could go a long ways on the grounds, not knowing what the future is of that track. We could go two years of going eight nights for the year. Then all of a sudden it could go where we're not making money, we know we're not making money and they're not going to make money. Then, you've invested $3.5 million and you've got an air handling unit on Meadowlark that needs to be changed out or you need electrical upgrades in the RV park or something like that. Those are considerations that we definitely have to look into. I am open to listening to all this, but remember, when this is happening, we need to make sure that there is some financial commitment, long term."

It would seem that Nightingale would have to come up with something remarkable to get the fair board and management to change their mind, but it looks, as of today, like he will get that chance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632137556905.jpeg" alt="KSF Grandstand Racetrack-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>KSF Grandstand Racetrack-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Phil Nightingale with Mel Hambleton Ford addressed the Kansas State Fair Board at their organizational meeting on Thursday to ask them if he could be allowed to put together a proposal to run races at the half mile oval at the fairgrounds."I understand, the fair's got to make money,"&nbsp;Nightingale said. "I think there's a way to make money with a racetrack. I think that there's been a lot of things that hasn't worked well for the fair. I think there's ways that we can go about it. I've got a lot of people that have talked to me about trying to promote the track, sponsor the track, sell different things. To run once or twice a year, I get it. That doesn't make it work. Having all that ground setting there empty all the time. I get that doesn't make it work, but can we come to some kind of a compromise to where you guys can have your events there too, while we still have racing?"Nightingale has spoken to a sanctioning body about his interest in running at the Fairgrounds."I did talk to the head person of IMCA last night at the track, while I was up there at Boone, Iowa. I told him what I was looking at and stuff like that. He's excited. He wants me to meet back with him when I get back there this afternoon."Tentatively, Nightingale would like to run one race a month April to October, starting with IMCA to get things going. James Fisher with the Fairgrounds Foundation, who was also there to present on a separate topic, brought up the elephant in the room regarding using the racetrack more often."Expo I is our most rented facility on the grounds for horse shows 40 to 45 weekends a year," Fisher said. "Horse shows will not come in if they are doing races on the same weekend, because they can't. Neither will the other venues down there on that side of the track. That consideration is something the board will have to look at, as well."The board also was sent a letter with some proposals from C. Ray Hall, who has promoted the Hutchinson Nationals and Fairgrounds events since 1975. Hall's proposals did not seem like something the board was as likely to consider, because of the agreement regarding race promotion Hall has after selling 81 Speedway in Park City in 2019.Ultimately, the board is going to take the subject back up at its meeting on Thursday. They seem to be leaning in the direction of at least allowing Nightingale the time to put together a formal proposal, which he believes he can get done by the fair board's November meeting.&nbsp;State Fair manager Bryan Schulz believes it would be a considerable cost to get the track in shape to race a monthly schedule."How much money are you willing to put into that track?" asked Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz. "In talking to the gentleman at 81 Speedway, to redo his walls, to redo his lighting, was about $3.5 million. I'll just put this out on the table, $3.5 million could go a long ways on the grounds, not knowing what the future is of that track. We could go two years of going eight nights for the year. Then all of a sudden it could go where we're not making money, we know we're not making money and they're not going to make money. Then, you've invested $3.5 million and you've got an air handling unit on Meadowlark that needs to be changed out or you need electrical upgrades in the RV park or something like that. Those are considerations that we definitely have to look into. I am open to listening to all this, but remember, when this is happening, we need to make sure that there is some financial commitment, long term."It would seem that Nightingale would have to come up with something remarkable to get the fair board and management to change their mind, but it looks, as of today, like he will get that chance.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;