HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the start of the 2020-21 school year mere weeks away, the Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education reviewed district efforts to return students and staff safely to the classroom.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 

During a study session at Monday night’s meeting, the board received an update on the Rapid Response Recovery teams that have been put into place. The teams are working on the plans to reopen school this fall after the coronavirus-shortened 2019-20 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

The teams of district staff look at the various areas of curriculum, safety, cleanliness and other factors to reopen school. The various teams, then, report to a central “control tower” that brings recommendations back to district-level administrators, the superintendent and ultimately the board.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Online enrollment for returning students is expected to start in mid-July. Walk-in enrollment for elementary schools and middle schools will be Aug. 5 with Hutchinson High School’s walk-in enrollment on Aug. 10.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Most staff return to work on Aug. 12. The first day of class for pre-kindergarten through ninth grade is Aug. 19. The first day for sophomores through seniors is Aug. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574794748723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the start of the 2020-21 school year mere weeks away, the Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education reviewed district efforts to return students and staff safely to the classroom.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; During a study session at Monday night’s meeting, the board received an update on the Rapid Response Recovery teams that have been put into place. The teams are working on the plans to reopen school this fall after the coronavirus-shortened 2019-20 school year.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The teams of district staff look at the various areas of curriculum, safety, cleanliness and other factors to reopen school. The various teams, then, report to a central “control tower” that brings recommendations back to district-level administrators, the superintendent and ultimately the board.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Online enrollment for returning students is expected to start in mid-July. Walk-in enrollment for elementary schools and middle schools will be Aug. 5 with Hutchinson High School’s walk-in enrollment on Aug. 10.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Most staff return to work on Aug. 12. The first day of class for pre-kindergarten through ninth grade is Aug. 19. The first day for sophomores through seniors is Aug. 20.

 USD 308 gets update on fall classes

NICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson is back in Kansas. Johnson just recently completed studies at the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C. Johnson says it is good to be back in Kansas.

“It feels great. I forgot what Kansas wind was like and it didn’t take long to be reminded of it,” Johnson said. “Other than that, the further south and west that I drove, the more like home that it felt.”&nbsp;

Johnson says the course work was very intense and noted that only a very small handful of officers that made it into the college were in the reserves.

“There were about 300 plus folks in my class and only three of us were reserve soldiers,” Johnson said. “We had class Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and then every Wednesday we had guest speakers.” Those speakers included leaders from Google, along with other businesses and military leaders. Those discussions centered around how the military can get and keep good people, and compete with large companies for those workers. She added that getting those workers has become even more difficult with the pandemic. Completion of the coursework in Washington also meant a promotion. Johnson is now a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.

“When I show it in my first reserve gig, back to one weekend a month that will be fun,” Johnson said. “I’m very humbled. There were about 1,750 folks that were up for promotion and only 435 were promoted, and so it gets thinner at the top and I feel very blessed to be one of the few to be selected to continue on.”&nbsp;

Johnson says now that she is back in Kansas it is time to start work on plans to get students back in schools this fall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592942090088.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostNICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson USD 309 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson is back in Kansas. Johnson just recently completed studies at the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy in Washington, D.C. Johnson says it is good to be back in Kansas.“It feels great. I forgot what Kansas wind was like and it didn’t take long to be reminded of it,” Johnson said. “Other than that, the further south and west that I drove, the more like home that it felt.”&nbsp;Johnson says the course work was very intense and noted that only a very small handful of officers that made it into the college were in the reserves.“There were about 300 plus folks in my class and only three of us were reserve soldiers,” Johnson said. “We had class Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and then every Wednesday we had guest speakers.” Those speakers included leaders from Google, along with other businesses and military leaders. Those discussions centered around how the military can get and keep good people, and compete with large companies for those workers. She added that getting those workers has become even more difficult with the pandemic. Completion of the coursework in Washington also meant a promotion. Johnson is now a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.“When I show it in my first reserve gig, back to one weekend a month that will be fun,” Johnson said. “I’m very humbled. There were about 1,750 folks that were up for promotion and only 435 were promoted, and so it gets thinner at the top and I feel very blessed to be one of the few to be selected to continue on.”&nbsp;Johnson says now that she is back in Kansas it is time to start work on plans to get students back in schools this fall.

Dr. Dawn Johnson back in Kansas after year-long stint in DC

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Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.

Recent obituaries


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The COVID-19 case count has gone up in Reno County with nine new cases added over the weekend, for a total of ten active cases.

"Generally speaking, all are unknown sources of exposure, outside of one of those cases," said Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti. "Eight, it looks like at this point in time are indicative of some community spread."

Baldetti would not call it a spike in cases, though.

"If we see activity next week or through the course of this week that is familiar to just increasing cases with unknown exposures, then it might be more applicable to use that kind of language."

Baldetti notes that case count is just one data point and the other data points still look okay for now, particularly hospitalizations.

"As of this morning with a census of 75, Hutchinson Hospital has one individual who they have tested potentially for COVID with no COVID-19 related hospitalizations," Baldetti said. "However, there seems to be activity in Sedgwick County related to COVID-19 and a high increase in hospitalizations and activity there."

Baldetti is reaching out to his colleague there for more information, as Sedgwick County and Reno County have a lot of commuting both directions.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The COVID-19 case count has gone up in Reno County with nine new cases added over the weekend, for a total of ten active cases."Generally speaking, all are unknown sources of exposure, outside of one of those cases," said Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti. "Eight, it looks like at this point in time are indicative of some community spread."Baldetti would not call it a spike in cases, though."If we see activity next week or through the course of this week that is familiar to just increasing cases with unknown exposures, then it might be more applicable to use that kind of language."Baldetti notes that case count is just one data point and the other data points still look okay for now, particularly hospitalizations."As of this morning with a census of 75, Hutchinson Hospital has one individual who they have tested potentially for COVID with no COVID-19 related hospitalizations," Baldetti said. "However, there seems to be activity in Sedgwick County related to COVID-19 and a high increase in hospitalizations and activity there."Baldetti is reaching out to his colleague there for more information, as Sedgwick County and Reno County have a lot of commuting both directions.

Baldetti: Increase in case count worth watching, but so far no hospitalization issues


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —State Board of Education member Ben Jones believes Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson when he says school will start on time in August. 


"At this time, it's going to be in person, in buildings," Jones said. "That's what we're anticipating for most of this next year. That's what we're planning on. Plan A is to have our kids and teachers back together again."

There will be a lot of decisions that happen below the State Board level.

"We're dealing with issues that have to deal with local school boards, which is operations," Jones said. "They hire, fire. They have to be held accountable to their voters. We work with them, but for the most part, our districts really do look to the department for guidance."

Guidance is exactly what the documents presented to the board will be, because Kansas has a variety of school situations.

"We have to make it nimble enough," Jones said. "Creating a statewide plan, what works for, say the Blue Valley school district in Johnson County or Olathe does not work for the St. Francis school district up in the northwest corner, or Liberal, or Dodge City, or Lyons or Hutchinson or Fairfield. They all have their unique challenges and they need that ability to create a plan for their local district."

The guidance will come to the state board at their next meeting in July.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592929033779.jpeg" alt="Ben Jones KSBE" />
 <figcaption>Ben Jones KSBE</figcaption>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —State Board of Education member Ben Jones believes Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson when he says school will start on time in August. 
"At this time, it's going to be in person, in buildings," Jones said. "That's what we're anticipating for most of this next year. That's what we're planning on. Plan A is to have our kids and teachers back together again."There will be a lot of decisions that happen below the State Board level."We're dealing with issues that have to deal with local school boards, which is operations," Jones said. "They hire, fire. They have to be held accountable to their voters. We work with them, but for the most part, our districts really do look to the department for guidance."Guidance is exactly what the documents presented to the board will be, because Kansas has a variety of school situations."We have to make it nimble enough," Jones said. "Creating a statewide plan, what works for, say the Blue Valley school district in Johnson County or Olathe does not work for the St. Francis school district up in the northwest corner, or Liberal, or Dodge City, or Lyons or Hutchinson or Fairfield. They all have their unique challenges and they need that ability to create a plan for their local district."The guidance will come to the state board at their next meeting in July.

State Board member knows guidance document has to be flexible

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While Hutchinson has numerous grain elevators served by the nation’s two largest railroads, many small towns west of Hutchinson relies on short lines railroads to move the harvest.

The Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad serves many of the small cities west of Hutchinson. Tracie Van Becelaere with Watco Transportation says they are looking good for moving the harvest out of the area. The railroad serves Nickerson, Haven, and Yoder in Reno County as well as Sterling, Lyons and Geneseo to the north before heading into western Kansas from there.&nbsp;

The railroad then transfers grain to the major railroads in Hutchinson and Wichita. Both BNSF and Union Pacific also say they expect no car shortages with the harvest and with better weather should be able to move product faster than last year.

The railroad says they don’t foresee a car shortage this year. K and O typically move about 4,000 carloads during the summer harvest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592926440501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — While Hutchinson has numerous grain elevators served by the nation’s two largest railroads, many small towns west of Hutchinson relies on short lines railroads to move the harvest.The Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad serves many of the small cities west of Hutchinson. Tracie Van Becelaere with Watco Transportation says they are looking good for moving the harvest out of the area. The railroad serves Nickerson, Haven, and Yoder in Reno County as well as Sterling, Lyons and Geneseo to the north before heading into western Kansas from there.&nbsp;The railroad then transfers grain to the major railroads in Hutchinson and Wichita. Both BNSF and Union Pacific also say they expect no car shortages with the harvest and with better weather should be able to move product faster than last year.The railroad says they don’t foresee a car shortage this year. K and O typically move about 4,000 carloads during the summer harvest.

K and O Railroad reports enough capacity to move harvest


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The wheat harvest is still on hold and they weren't that far into it before the rains came late last week and into this one, but it isn't that danger that comes out of a farmer's mouth first.

"Right now, the price of grain is really the big driver," said K-State Extension agent Ryan Flaming in Harvey County. "The uncertainty of the grain markets."

Farmers have a decision to make and it's hard to have enough information to make the decision.

"Harvest is going good, I mean, good yields are coming in," Flaming said. "That's the positive stuff I've been hearing. The negative part is, they don't know when to market the wheat. Try to sell it as they dump it off over the scale or should they pay storage and hold on to it for a while, hoping on the market to go up down the road?"

If farmers want to store their grain, they should be able to do that, unless yields are a lot bigger than thought.

"I know Canton's got several piles of it out there right now, but I don't think right now there should be any storage complications," Flaming said. "We'll see how harvest goes and what kinds of yields we see will have a pretty big effect on that."

Flaming said traditionally farmers go to their best fields first, so he expects yields to taper off as the harvest goes along, but that they were only a couple of days in when the rains came at the end of last week. He expects it to be 80% done by the 4th of July if weather doesn't get in the way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592925138794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The wheat harvest is still on hold and they weren't that far into it before the rains came late last week and into this one, but it isn't that danger that comes out of a farmer's mouth first."Right now, the price of grain is really the big driver," said K-State Extension agent Ryan Flaming in Harvey County. "The uncertainty of the grain markets."Farmers have a decision to make and it's hard to have enough information to make the decision."Harvest is going good, I mean, good yields are coming in," Flaming said. "That's the positive stuff I've been hearing. The negative part is, they don't know when to market the wheat. Try to sell it as they dump it off over the scale or should they pay storage and hold on to it for a while, hoping on the market to go up down the road?"If farmers want to store their grain, they should be able to do that, unless yields are a lot bigger than thought."I know Canton's got several piles of it out there right now, but I don't think right now there should be any storage complications," Flaming said. "We'll see how harvest goes and what kinds of yields we see will have a pretty big effect on that."Flaming said traditionally farmers go to their best fields first, so he expects yields to taper off as the harvest goes along, but that they were only a couple of days in when the rains came at the end of last week. He expects it to be 80% done by the 4th of July if weather doesn't get in the way.

Marketing decisions still tough for farmers as they wait for fields to dry


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A Hutchinson cheer gym is a part of a national contest for a cheer gym makeover from The Open.

"We had to send in <a href="https://youtu.be/RXjd_pHg0po">a video</a> of our gym," said Midwest Express Cheer coach Lauren Galyon. "Some of the parents spoke in the video about the coaches and how we as coaches, we're family. We are a family-owned gym, but our goal is to be able to help people who can't afford cheer afford cheerleading."

Midwest Express Cheer is one of ten gyms from across the country <a href="https://openchampionshipseries.com/cheer-gym-extreme-makeover-voting/">vying for your vote</a>. You can vote once per 24-hour period.

"That would give people free choreography," Galyon said. "We would get free uniforms. We would get free equipment. Equipment's expensive. It's hard to replace equipment because it's so expensive and with us trying to help athletes save money for tuition and stuff, it's hard for us to be able to buy equipment."

Galyon teaches cheer squads from ages 3 to 18. You can vote once per 24-hour period.

"Our girls are like family," Galyon said. "We treat them like family. We want what's best for them, like if they were our sisters. If they're having trouble at school, if they're having trouble anywhere, they know they can come and talk to us. We feel like it's more than just a sport."

The gyms with the top three votes will go to the finals.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592922978055.jpeg" alt="" />
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;A Hutchinson cheer gym is a part of a national contest for a cheer gym makeover from The Open."We had to send in <a href="https://youtu.be/RXjd_pHg0po">a video</a> of our gym," said Midwest Express Cheer coach Lauren Galyon. "Some of the parents spoke in the video about the coaches and how we as coaches, we're family. We are a family-owned gym, but our goal is to be able to help people who can't afford cheer afford cheerleading."Midwest Express Cheer is one of ten gyms from across the country <a href="https://openchampionshipseries.com/cheer-gym-extreme-makeover-voting/">vying for your vote</a>. You can vote once per 24-hour period."That would give people free choreography," Galyon said. "We would get free uniforms. We would get free equipment. Equipment's expensive. It's hard to replace equipment because it's so expensive and with us trying to help athletes save money for tuition and stuff, it's hard for us to be able to buy equipment."Galyon teaches cheer squads from ages 3 to 18. You can vote once per 24-hour period."Our girls are like family," Galyon said. "We treat them like family. We want what's best for them, like if they were our sisters. If they're having trouble at school, if they're having trouble anywhere, they know they can come and talk to us. We feel like it's more than just a sport."The gyms with the top three votes will go to the finals.

Hutchinson cheer gym part of national contest


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission has its next meeting Wednesday afternoon and will discuss housing protection for protected classes in light of the latest Supreme Court decision finding that LGBTQ people cannot be discriminated against in employment decisions based on sex.

Also on the agenda for that meeting is a featured neighborhood report from Adam Stewart, an update on the grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank, an update on the CDBG Grant for the Creekside neighborhood, and a code enforcement update.

The meeting will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday on Zoom.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission has its next meeting Wednesday afternoon and will discuss housing protection for protected classes in light of the latest Supreme Court decision finding that LGBTQ people cannot be discriminated against in employment decisions based on sex.Also on the agenda for that meeting is a featured neighborhood report from Adam Stewart, an update on the grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank, an update on the CDBG Grant for the Creekside neighborhood, and a code enforcement update.The meeting will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday on Zoom.

Housing Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday

NEWTON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed three new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.

One confirmed case is a female in her 20s. The individual was a close contact of a known active case. She had previously quarantined as a precaution, and is now isolating at home. Testing was completed by a private lab.

Two additional confirmed cases include a male and female, each 10 to 19 years old. Both had known out of state travel. They are in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab.

The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.

Harvey County has had 24 COVID-19 cases to date, including 20 confirmed and four probable cases. There are nine known active cases in Harvey County. As of this morning, there have been 1,302 tests conducted in Harvey County.

“We stay in communication with our local health partners as we monitor our recent increase in cases. COVID-19 continues to be a public health concern, and one without a verified treatment or vaccine,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “Taking preventative steps such as frequent hand washing, social distancing and wearing a face cover when you can’t maintain social distancing are still the best ways to protect yourself and others.”

As of today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 12,465 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 154,770 completed tests in Kansas.

Harvey County transitioned to the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan as of June 17. However, the County has restricted visitation at long-term care facilities through June 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586533807157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed three new cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.One confirmed case is a female in her 20s. The individual was a close contact of a known active case. She had previously quarantined as a precaution, and is now isolating at home. Testing was completed by a private lab.Two additional confirmed cases include a male and female, each 10 to 19 years old. Both had known out of state travel. They are in home isolation. Testing was completed by a private lab.The Health Department will regularly monitor the health of the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.Harvey County has had 24 COVID-19 cases to date, including 20 confirmed and four probable cases. There are nine known active cases in Harvey County. As of this morning, there have been 1,302 tests conducted in Harvey County.“We stay in communication with our local health partners as we monitor our recent increase in cases. COVID-19 continues to be a public health concern, and one without a verified treatment or vaccine,” said Harvey County Health Department Director Lynnette Redington. “Taking preventative steps such as frequent hand washing, social distancing and wearing a face cover when you can’t maintain social distancing are still the best ways to protect yourself and others.”As of today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment confirmed 12,465 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 154,770 completed tests in Kansas.Harvey County transitioned to the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan as of June 17. However, the County has restricted visitation at long-term care facilities through June 23.

Active case count in Harvey County up to nine

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council discussed but took no action on what to do about the city's tornado warning system during a recent meeting.

The siren has not worked during the past several severe weather events. In March, the city informed residents that the siren would not be used and advised they find other means of getting weather alerts.

City Clerk April Beshears says the cost to replace the warning system could run anywhere from $23,000 to as much as $70,000 depending on what needs to be replaced. Beshears says it really is up to the townspeople whether that is a tax expense they want for what is becoming an antiquated warning system.

Reno County Emergency Management was also a part of the meeting and has gone through the community introducing them to the county’s Everbridge system that uses cell technology to alert residents of impending weather. Beshears says the Everbridge system has been met with positive reactions from residents.

The future of the warning system will be addressed again during the council’s meeting in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592853018555.jpeg" alt="This photo shows the controls of the weather warning system in Nickerson. The system has not worked during the last several severe weather events. Residents are being asked to find alternative ways to get severe weather reports until the City Council can decide whether to replace the system.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>This photo shows the controls of the weather warning system in Nickerson. The system has not worked during the last several severe weather events. Residents are being asked to find alternative ways to get severe weather reports until the City Council can decide whether to replace the system.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council discussed but took no action on what to do about the city's tornado warning system during a recent meeting.The siren has not worked during the past several severe weather events. In March, the city informed residents that the siren would not be used and advised they find other means of getting weather alerts.City Clerk April Beshears says the cost to replace the warning system could run anywhere from $23,000 to as much as $70,000 depending on what needs to be replaced. Beshears says it really is up to the townspeople whether that is a tax expense they want for what is becoming an antiquated warning system.Reno County Emergency Management was also a part of the meeting and has gone through the community introducing them to the county’s Everbridge system that uses cell technology to alert residents of impending weather. Beshears says the Everbridge system has been met with positive reactions from residents.The future of the warning system will be addressed again during the council’s meeting in July.

City of Nickerson still addressing weather warning system

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is always looking for donations of supplies to help with the care of its animals.&nbsp;

But one person really stepped up recently. Shelter Director Michaela Schommer says an anonymous woman walked in and out of the shelter last week to drop off some litter box donations. When the shelter personnel went to put the boxes away, they found an envelope with $500 in cash.

No name was left with the envelope. The shelter wanted to say "thank you" to the person who was so kind to leave such a donation. 

The shelter says it hopes to use the money to purchase much-needed supplies for the kittens in foster care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592854638995.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is always looking for donations of supplies to help with the care of its animals.&nbsp;But one person really stepped up recently. Shelter Director Michaela Schommer says an anonymous woman walked in and out of the shelter last week to drop off some litter box donations. When the shelter personnel went to put the boxes away, they found an envelope with $500 in cash.No name was left with the envelope. The shelter wanted to say "thank you" to the person who was so kind to leave such a donation. The shelter says it hopes to use the money to purchase much-needed supplies for the kittens in foster care.

Anonymous donation made to animal shelter

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Reno County will be hosting a forum for Reno County Commission and Kansas State Legislature candidates that will be appearing on the August primary ballot. 

The forum will be Tuesday, July 7, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.  The evening will begin with the Reno County District 3 Candidate Forum with candidates Daniel Friesen and Ronald Vincent.  Immediately following will be the Kansas Legislative Candidate Forum with Kansas Senate District 34 candidates Sen. Dr. Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, as well as Kansas Representative District 114 candidates Bob Booth and Michael Murphy.

Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber, will act as the moderator and questions will be asked by a three-person panel.

Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements. During the question and answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer to keep the forum moving. No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office. Questions may be submitted to Lacie Janzen at <a href="mailto:laciej@hutchchamber.com">laciej@hutchchamber.com</a>.

There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber business community and Young Professionals organization, as well as the general public, are encouraged to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592851747011.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Reno County will be hosting a forum for Reno County Commission and Kansas State Legislature candidates that will be appearing on the August primary ballot. The forum will be Tuesday, July 7, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus. The evening will begin with the Reno County District 3 Candidate Forum with candidates Daniel Friesen and Ronald Vincent. Immediately following will be the Kansas Legislative Candidate Forum with Kansas Senate District 34 candidates Sen. Dr. Ed Berger and Dr. Mark Steffen, as well as Kansas Representative District 114 candidates Bob Booth and Michael Murphy.Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber, will act as the moderator and questions will be asked by a three-person panel.Candidates will have the opportunity to make opening and closing statements. During the question and answer period, candidates will be given a limited time to answer to keep the forum moving. No questions will be accepted from the audience that evening, however, the public is invited to submit questions in advance to the Hutch Chamber office. Questions may be submitted to Lacie Janzen at <a href="mailto:laciej@hutchchamber.com">laciej@hutchchamber.com</a>.There is no cost to attend. Members of the Chamber business community and Young Professionals organization, as well as the general public, are encouraged to attend.

Chamber to host first candidate forum July 7

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Although it is a light agenda for Tuesday’s regular meeting, it will be a busy week for Reno County commissioners.

The only action item on the agenda is the audit report for the county along with commission and county administrator reports. The board will hear the weekly reports from Adam Weishaar and Nick Baldetti on the pandemic and approve the consent agenda. The real work starts on Thursday where the commission will begin the first of two days of budget meetings.&nbsp;

The county is looking to cut between $1 million and $2 million from the 2021 numbers. Those meetings are expected to continue on Friday.

Tuesday’s agenda session begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576610766240.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Although it is a light agenda for Tuesday’s regular meeting, it will be a busy week for Reno County commissioners.The only action item on the agenda is the audit report for the county along with commission and county administrator reports. The board will hear the weekly reports from Adam Weishaar and Nick Baldetti on the pandemic and approve the consent agenda. The real work starts on Thursday where the commission will begin the first of two days of budget meetings.&nbsp;The county is looking to cut between $1 million and $2 million from the 2021 numbers. Those meetings are expected to continue on Friday.Tuesday’s agenda session begins at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Courthouse.

County Commission has a busy week ahead

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are still a few openings for the Boys &amp; Girls Club Great Futures Golf Tournament this year. After it was postponed twice because of the pandemic, the annual fundraiser will be held Aug. 14 starting at 8 a.m. at Crazy Horse Golf Club.

According to Skip Wilson with the Boys &amp; Girls Club, about seven team openings remain. The cost is $500 per team or $125 for an individual.&nbsp;

The annual event is one of the major fundraisers for the organization. If you would like more information or want to enter, you can do so online at <a href="https://www.bgchutch.com/event-signup">bgchutch.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584740557772.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are still a few openings for the Boys &amp; Girls Club Great Futures Golf Tournament this year. After it was postponed twice because of the pandemic, the annual fundraiser will be held Aug. 14 starting at 8 a.m. at Crazy Horse Golf Club.According to Skip Wilson with the Boys &amp; Girls Club, about seven team openings remain. The cost is $500 per team or $125 for an individual.&nbsp;The annual event is one of the major fundraisers for the organization. If you would like more information or want to enter, you can do so online at <a href="https://www.bgchutch.com/event-signup">bgchutch.com</a>.

Openings still available for Boys & Girls Club golf tournament

MCPHERSON,
Kan. —The McPherson County Health Department announced seven new cases of COVID-19 on Monday.

The cases are all asymptomatic with one man in his sixties, a woman in her teens, two women in their nineties, a man in his fifties and two women in their twenties.

Five of the seven were exposed in a long term care facility, with the other two having known exposure to another case in their household. 

This makes 49 cases total since the beginning of the pandemic and ten currently active in McPherson County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586828341581.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON,
Kan. —The McPherson County Health Department announced seven new cases of COVID-19 on Monday.The cases are all asymptomatic with one man in his sixties, a woman in her teens, two women in their nineties, a man in his fifties and two women in their twenties.Five of the seven were exposed in a long term care facility, with the other two having known exposure to another case in their household. This makes 49 cases total since the beginning of the pandemic and ten currently active in McPherson County.

Seven new cases of COVID-19 announced in McPherson County, 10 active


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Planning Commission plans to take up a small matter on Tuesday, changing the regulations in the City's R-5 housing districts to allow a second smaller dwelling unit on the same parcel that has a single-family house.

"An R-5 district is typically for multi-family, so it would be apartments, duplexes, triplexes, those type of things," said Ryan Hvitlok wiht the City. "We also do have some single-family homes that are within that zoning district as well. They came in, and they're like, hey, I want to put this in and we said unfortunately, the zoning doesn't allow for it. We looked a little closer and we realized that we believe it was probably just an oversight."

There are several areas of R-5 zoning in Hutchinson.

"You're going to see those mostly near our apartment complexes," Hvitlok said. "We also have some off of 23rd, where it's near some assisted living and things along those lines."

The Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Planning Commission plans to take up a small matter on Tuesday, changing the regulations in the City's R-5 housing districts to allow a second smaller dwelling unit on the same parcel that has a single-family house."An R-5 district is typically for multi-family, so it would be apartments, duplexes, triplexes, those type of things," said Ryan Hvitlok wiht the City. "We also do have some single-family homes that are within that zoning district as well. They came in, and they're like, hey, I want to put this in and we said unfortunately, the zoning doesn't allow for it. We looked a little closer and we realized that we believe it was probably just an oversight."There are several areas of R-5 zoning in Hutchinson."You're going to see those mostly near our apartment complexes," Hvitlok said. "We also have some off of 23rd, where it's near some assisted living and things along those lines."The Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom.

Planning Commission to correct oversight Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;AAA announced the release of its first edition of the AAA Car Guide, a consumer resource on the latest and greatest in vehicle technology.

"The majority of category winners that we found for 2020 are either electric, plug-in electric hybrids or hybrids, signaling that these eco-friendly vehicles tend to offer the most cutting-edge vehicle technology," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. 

One of the bigger issues is getting the terminology straight on the vehicle technology itself.

"When you have different manufacturers calling automatic braking something different than another manufacturer, that creates confusion among consumers," Steward said. "Especially as they look to potentially change manufacturers when they buy a new vehicle."

It's important to note, though, that even as advanced driver assistance systems become more common, we're still a ways away from self-driving cars.

"It's going to be awhile before we have fully self-driving vehicles on the road," Steward said. "It's important right now, with a lot of these advanced driver systems, for drivers to be educated and really understand what they do and more importantly, what they don't do."

The 175-page guide includes comprehensive, easy-to-read reviews of each vehicle which are based on 13 criteria, including braking, fuel economy, emissions, handling, ride comfort, acceleration and the number of ADAS safety features. You can find the guide at <a href="http://aaa.com/carguide/">aaa.com/carguide</a>.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;AAA announced the release of its first edition of the AAA Car Guide, a consumer resource on the latest and greatest in vehicle technology."The majority of category winners that we found for 2020 are either electric, plug-in electric hybrids or hybrids, signaling that these eco-friendly vehicles tend to offer the most cutting-edge vehicle technology," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. One of the bigger issues is getting the terminology straight on the vehicle technology itself."When you have different manufacturers calling automatic braking something different than another manufacturer, that creates confusion among consumers," Steward said. "Especially as they look to potentially change manufacturers when they buy a new vehicle."It's important to note, though, that even as advanced driver assistance systems become more common, we're still a ways away from self-driving cars."It's going to be awhile before we have fully self-driving vehicles on the road," Steward said. "It's important right now, with a lot of these advanced driver systems, for drivers to be educated and really understand what they do and more importantly, what they don't do."The 175-page guide includes comprehensive, easy-to-read reviews of each vehicle which are based on 13 criteria, including braking, fuel economy, emissions, handling, ride comfort, acceleration and the number of ADAS safety features. You can find the guide at <a href="http://aaa.com/carguide/">aaa.com/carguide</a>.

AAA releases 2020 Car Guide


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A new high school academy is starting this fall in the MidTown Center building in USD 308.

"We should have about 30 students," said David Patterson, who was on the committee for the Mid Town Center. "Our capacity, then, after the first trimester is going to be pushing 40 to 60 and that's probably about the number that we're going to stay at for a little while. We do really appreciate starting with a little bit smaller of a number, because we are starting from ground zero in this school. We have some ideas and what a model might look like, but as far as the day to day routines and everything, we for sure, kind of want to make sure we get all of our systems down and get the relationships built with the students and the staff."

There will be five new teachers in the building.

"One of our main objectives and one of the things we heard from all of the alternative schools, was to make sure that you hire quality people who care about kids," Patterson said. "Kevin Stucky and I think we did a pretty good job in that area. We spent a lot of time. For example, we have a teacher with a educational administration degree, we have one with a counseling degree, we have one with a MBA. She's going to teach our English. We're very fortunate to have quality, quality staff. It really wasn't that hard of a sale to get staff once you start talking about an alternative school program like what we're trying to pull off."

The important thing to note is that alternative school does not necessarily mean remedial learning and students in all stages of high school will be a part.

"We're talking a typical freshman, age 14-15 through one year removed from your senior cohort class," said Superintendent Mike Folks. "Realistically, we could have 14 or 15-year-olds through 19-year-olds working at our MidTown Center."

The MidTown Center will have an extra period at the end of the day, but otherwise will run on the same basic schedule as Hutch High, so that students who need to go back and forth for electives or even advanced courses in some subjects can fit their schedules together.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A new high school academy is starting this fall in the MidTown Center building in USD 308."We should have about 30 students," said David Patterson, who was on the committee for the Mid Town Center. "Our capacity, then, after the first trimester is going to be pushing 40 to 60 and that's probably about the number that we're going to stay at for a little while. We do really appreciate starting with a little bit smaller of a number, because we are starting from ground zero in this school. We have some ideas and what a model might look like, but as far as the day to day routines and everything, we for sure, kind of want to make sure we get all of our systems down and get the relationships built with the students and the staff."There will be five new teachers in the building."One of our main objectives and one of the things we heard from all of the alternative schools, was to make sure that you hire quality people who care about kids," Patterson said. "Kevin Stucky and I think we did a pretty good job in that area. We spent a lot of time. For example, we have a teacher with a educational administration degree, we have one with a counseling degree, we have one with a MBA. She's going to teach our English. We're very fortunate to have quality, quality staff. It really wasn't that hard of a sale to get staff once you start talking about an alternative school program like what we're trying to pull off."The important thing to note is that alternative school does not necessarily mean remedial learning and students in all stages of high school will be a part."We're talking a typical freshman, age 14-15 through one year removed from your senior cohort class," said Superintendent Mike Folks. "Realistically, we could have 14 or 15-year-olds through 19-year-olds working at our MidTown Center."The MidTown Center will have an extra period at the end of the day, but otherwise will run on the same basic schedule as Hutch High, so that students who need to go back and forth for electives or even advanced courses in some subjects can fit their schedules together.

MidTown Center to begin high school classes this fall

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

“If it looks like we were scared to death

Like a couple of kids just trying to save each other

But you can’t see what those shades of gray keep covered

If you are from the Plains region, your social media feed is probably filled with wheat harvest photos right now.

Hot, dry winds roll across fields of golden waving wheat. Friends and family come together to drive combines, grain trucks, “the old wheat truck” and “the new semi” late into the night to bring in the crop. Famous home-cooked meals are served out of the back of SUVs. Heavenly displays of color created by the dust-filled air as the sun sets over the heart of America.

However, the country song “In Color” is spot on that “seeing it in color” by living through an event is so much more powerful. A picture can’t quite capture an air of excitement, comradery of families and communities working together, or pride in an honest day’s work. No picture, black and white or color, can capture the true heart of the experience.

In recent years, farmers and ranchers have become frustrated with “city people” who have never been on a real farm because they can’t seem understand that even though farming is truly a passion it is full of challenges.

For example, harvest is such a whirlwind because farmers are terrified if they don’t get wheat out of the field hail, fire or bugs could destroy it. An entire year’s income is tied up in each field and farmers aren’t actually rich, they just have larger bills than most other people. It’s not uncommon to go days or weeks without tucking their kids into bed, a proper night’s sleep or a moment of downtime. The seeds, chemicals and other scientifically developed farming practices we use are what we believe to be the best, safest tools to grow healthy food.

A city person scrolling through social media probably doesn’t appreciate (or maybe even care about) all my feelings about wheat harvest. Pictures are informative and can help tell a story, but they can’t provide context, background and first-hand feelings created by seeing the true colors of an experience with your own eyes.

Our national conversation is consumed with Black Lives Matter, protests, race and injustice. I see these stories and feel like an outsider looking at another family’s photo album. I can see what is happening and the emotions of the participants, but I can only guess at what they feel  and have no understanding of each snapshots’ value. I am not part of their experience.

No matter how much I want to understand, I can’t wrap my brain around what it is like to be a black man living in America. However, I do understand some of their emotions: helplessness, frustration, fear and anger.

It’s OK if you aren’t a vocal participant in the national conversation. It is actually very appropriate if you lack experience with the topics. But please, do not dismiss these conversations. They are happening for a reason.

The world is not black and white. Taking a color-blind approach and ignoring race hides so many valuable things in the shades of gray. Our world is full of color and colorful people for a reason.

We have an opportunity to make it better. A moment to ask genuine questions and have uncomfortable conversations, raise our voices against injustice and show compassion for others’ struggles, and seek to understand the cultures of our fellow humans.

Don’t experience life scrolling through other people’s photos. Go see it in color.

"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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584374831676.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher“If it looks like we were scared to deathLike a couple of kids just trying to save each otherYou should've seen it in color.A picture’s worth a thousand wordsBut you can’t see what those shades of gray keep coveredYou should've seen it in color” -- Jamey Johnson, “In Color”If you are from the Plains region, your social media feed is probably filled with wheat harvest photos right now.Hot, dry winds roll across fields of golden waving wheat. Friends and family come together to drive combines, grain trucks, “the old wheat truck” and “the new semi” late into the night to bring in the crop. Famous home-cooked meals are served out of the back of SUVs. Heavenly displays of color created by the dust-filled air as the sun sets over the heart of America.However, the country song “In Color” is spot on that “seeing it in color” by living through an event is so much more powerful. A picture can’t quite capture an air of excitement, comradery of families and communities working together, or pride in an honest day’s work. No picture, black and white or color, can capture the true heart of the experience.In recent years, farmers and ranchers have become frustrated with “city people” who have never been on a real farm because they can’t seem understand that even though farming is truly a passion it is full of challenges.For example, harvest is such a whirlwind because farmers are terrified if they don’t get wheat out of the field hail, fire or bugs could destroy it. An entire year’s income is tied up in each field and farmers aren’t actually rich, they just have larger bills than most other people. It’s not uncommon to go days or weeks without tucking their kids into bed, a proper night’s sleep or a moment of downtime. The seeds, chemicals and other scientifically developed farming practices we use are what we believe to be the best, safest tools to grow healthy food.A city person scrolling through social media probably doesn’t appreciate (or maybe even care about) all my feelings about wheat harvest. Pictures are informative and can help tell a story, but they can’t provide context, background and first-hand feelings created by seeing the true colors of an experience with your own eyes.Our national conversation is consumed with Black Lives Matter, protests, race and injustice. I see these stories and feel like an outsider looking at another family’s photo album. I can see what is happening and the emotions of the participants, but I can only guess at what they feel and have no understanding of each snapshots’ value. I am not part of their experience.No matter how much I want to understand, I can’t wrap my brain around what it is like to be a black man living in America. However, I do understand some of their emotions: helplessness, frustration, fear and anger.It’s OK if you aren’t a vocal participant in the national conversation. It is actually very appropriate if you lack experience with the topics. But please, do not dismiss these conversations. They are happening for a reason.The world is not black and white. Taking a color-blind approach and ignoring race hides so many valuable things in the shades of gray. Our world is full of color and colorful people for a reason.We have an opportunity to make it better. A moment to ask genuine questions and have uncomfortable conversations, raise our voices against injustice and show compassion for others’ struggles, and seek to understand the cultures of our fellow humans.Don’t experience life scrolling through other people’s photos. Go see it in color."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. Copyright © 2020 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: See It In Color


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Rev up your engines! The Kansas State Fair is bringing action-packed motorsport events to the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand this September.

The dirt-filled weekend begins with the Moto Madness &amp; Fire Thrill Show - a new event slated for 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. Then, returning by popular demand, is the All Star Monster Truck Tour, which will invade the Fairgrounds for an afternoon of destruction at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. 

The Fair’s annual Demolition Derby is at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14. Tickets for all three events are now on sale.

The popularity of last year’s monster truck tour is one reason the Fair decided to bring the event back in 2020 and expand the grandstand’s dirt event offerings, said the Fair’s General Manager Robin Jennison.

“These events allow our patrons to have a good time and make memories with their families,” Jennison said. “That’s the most rewarding experience we can create here at the Kansas State Fair.” 

“You can expect a lot of destruction,” added Jennison. “These massive vehicles will race and crash, get huge air, do wheelies and all kinds of things. They put on a great show.”

The All Star Monster Truck Tour features the biggest names from across the United States to do battle on the Fair’s large grandstand infield. These All Star Monster Trucks will be competing in an insane best trick competition, full-throttle obstacle course racing and a no-rules freestyle battle. Trucks coming to the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand:

IRON OUTLAW – TV Superstar truck that has competed in the United States Canada and Mexico.

BOUNTY HUNTER - This Kansas native is a two-time Monster Jam World Champion.

SCARLET BANDIT - Another truck from Kansas, Scarlet Bandit's Dawn is also the nation's top female competitor.

JEKYLL &amp; HYDE – The split personality monster truck from Tonganoxie, Kansas.

TWISTED ADDICTION – The wheelie king from Missouri.

Joining the All Star Monster Trucks will be the nation's best professional ATV competitors racing over a course of dirt jumps and tight turns against the clock.

About the Moto Madness &amp; Fire Thrill Show

Moto Madness &amp; Fire Thrill Show includes motocross stunts and extreme sports action, featuring both professional ATV racers and freestyle motocross riders — some flying over a 75-foot-wide gap at more than 30 feet in the air.

Among the highlights is the Kamakazie Kid Fire Thrill Show starring Guinness Book of World Records title holder Levi Troutman from Wyoming. Troutman will perform the "Body Burn" — running across the grandstand racetrack engulfed in flames. Also part of the show is the "Torpedo Crash" — an insane metal mayhem car crash stunt. Moreover, fairgoers will see a special "teaser" for Sunday's Monster Truck Show as the Twisted Addiction monster truck performs a car crushing freestyle exhibition.

Those wanting the ultimate experience can purchase the VIP Experience for both the monster truck and motocross event. VIP Experience tickets are $35 per person.

Early access to the event (12:45 p.m. for monster trucks, 2:45 p.m for motocross)

Reserved seating in Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstanding sections E and F.

Track Party: Access to track and trucks, including a meet and greet with drivers, plus photo and autograph opportunities

All ticket holders will receive one ride on one of two new, 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound monster trucks. There is no age limit or height restrictions.

All other seating is general admission. Ticket prices are $15 for ages 13 and older; $5 for ages 6 through 12; and children 5 and under are free. General admission tickets do not include gate admission to the Fair.

Monster truck rides will be available before and after the show at an extra cost to general admission ticket holders.

Save by purchasing tickets to both the monster truck and the motocross show! The package is $25 for adults and $7 for kids ages 6-12. All tickets are general admission and do not include gate admission to the Fair.

For more information on purchasing tickets, call the Kansas State Fair Ticket Office at 620-669-3618, stop by the Administration Building located at 2000 N. Poplar St. or visit the Fair’s website, www.kansasstatefair.com.

The ticket office will open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting July 1. 

The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 11-20. The dirt weekend is the final 2020 Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand Entertainment Series announcement. Here is this year’s full lineup:

Nex-Gen Bull Riding Tour — 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11. The nation’s top bulls and rising world-class cowboys, who buck up a storm on the pro rodeo circuit, will kick off the 2020 Kansas State Fair. Ticket prices start at $5 for youth and $20 for adults.

Tracy Lawrence and Logan Mize — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15. Mize is an up-and-coming country star from Clearwater, Kansas. His “Come Back Road” album has more than 150 million streams across all platforms and debuted at No. 2 on the Country iTunes chart. Other singles include “It Ain’t Always Pretty, "Can't Get Away from a Good Time,” "Better Off Gone” and “I Ain’t Gotta Grow Up.” Meanwhile, one of country music’s truest traditionalists, Lawrence has sold more than 13 million albums and has charted 18 No. 1 songs. His singles that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 include "Sticks and Stones," "Alibis," "Can't Break It to My Heart," "If the Good Die Young," "Texas Tornado” and "Time Marches On." The most recent No. 1 was in 2007 with "Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” featuring Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw. Lawrence has 22 Top 10 hits, including “Better Man, Better Off,” “If the World Had A Front Porch,” “As Any Fool Can See” and "Paint Me a Birmingham." Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.

Newsboys with Adam Agee – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16. Newsboys has defined Christian music since winning their first Dove award in 1995. Along the way, they’ve sold more than 10 million units and amassed eight gold certifications and 33 No. 1 radio hits. Among the chart-toppers are “Shine,” “It is You” and “He Reigns” from earlier years to more recent singles like “Born Again,” “Miracles” and “We Believe” and platinum-certified mega-hit, “God’s Not Dead.” Ticket prices start at $20.

38 Special— 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17. Spanning five decades, 38 Special helped write the classic rock soundtrack of the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Hold on Loosely” and “Caught Up in You.” Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.

Chris Janson– 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18. Janson put himself on the country music map with his single “Buy Me a Boat,” in 2015. The chart-topping, double-platinum single received the iHeartRadio Music Awards Country Song of the Year in 2016 has had more than 82 million streams on Spotify. Other hits include “Drunk Girl,” “Fix a Drink,” “Power of Positive Drinkin’” and “Done.” “Good Vibes” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in October. Ticket prices start at $25.

Nelly with Willie Jones — 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Nelly, a diamond-selling, multi-platinum artist, has sold more than 22 million albums, ranking him as one of the best-selling rappers in America. His songs include “Ride Wit Me,” “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones” and “Country Grammar,” which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in June. Rising star Jones blends his country roots with R&amp;B and hip-hop influences. Recent singles include Whole Lotta Love,” “Bachelorettes on Broadway” and “Down For it.” Tickets are still available at $25 and $35. 

Darci Lynne Farmer — 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20. Teen ventriloquist Darci Lynne Farmer hit stardom in 2017 after becoming one of the youngest contestants to ever win NBC’s America’s Got Talent.” Darci Lynne will be accompanied by her puppet friends: divaesque rabbit Petunia, shy and soulful mouse Oscar and a sarcastic old woman named Edna. Ticket prices start at $20.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Rev up your engines! The Kansas State Fair is bringing action-packed motorsport events to the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand this September.The dirt-filled weekend begins with the Moto Madness &amp; Fire Thrill Show - a new event slated for 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. Then, returning by popular demand, is the All Star Monster Truck Tour, which will invade the Fairgrounds for an afternoon of destruction at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13. The Fair’s annual Demolition Derby is at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14. Tickets for all three events are now on sale.The popularity of last year’s monster truck tour is one reason the Fair decided to bring the event back in 2020 and expand the grandstand’s dirt event offerings, said the Fair’s General Manager Robin Jennison.“These events allow our patrons to have a good time and make memories with their families,” Jennison said. “That’s the most rewarding experience we can create here at the Kansas State Fair.” “You can expect a lot of destruction,” added Jennison. “These massive vehicles will race and crash, get huge air, do wheelies and all kinds of things. They put on a great show.”About the All Star Monster Truck TourThe All Star Monster Truck Tour features the biggest names from across the United States to do battle on the Fair’s large grandstand infield. These All Star Monster Trucks will be competing in an insane best trick competition, full-throttle obstacle course racing and a no-rules freestyle battle. Trucks coming to the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand:IRON OUTLAW – TV Superstar truck that has competed in the United States Canada and Mexico.BOUNTY HUNTER - This Kansas native is a two-time Monster Jam World Champion.SCARLET BANDIT - Another truck from Kansas, Scarlet Bandit's Dawn is also the nation's top female competitor.JEKYLL &amp; HYDE – The split personality monster truck from Tonganoxie, Kansas.TWISTED ADDICTION – The wheelie king from Missouri.Joining the All Star Monster Trucks will be the nation's best professional ATV competitors racing over a course of dirt jumps and tight turns against the clock.About the Moto Madness &amp; Fire Thrill ShowMoto Madness &amp; Fire Thrill Show includes motocross stunts and extreme sports action, featuring both professional ATV racers and freestyle motocross riders — some flying over a 75-foot-wide gap at more than 30 feet in the air.Among the highlights is the Kamakazie Kid Fire Thrill Show starring Guinness Book of World Records title holder Levi Troutman from Wyoming. Troutman will perform the "Body Burn" — running across the grandstand racetrack engulfed in flames. Also part of the show is the "Torpedo Crash" — an insane metal mayhem car crash stunt. Moreover, fairgoers will see a special "teaser" for Sunday's Monster Truck Show as the Twisted Addiction monster truck performs a car crushing freestyle exhibition.VIP ExperienceThose wanting the ultimate experience can purchase the VIP Experience for both the monster truck and motocross event. VIP Experience tickets are $35 per person.Included in the VIP Experience:Kansas State Fair gate admissionEarly access to the event (12:45 p.m. for monster trucks, 2:45 p.m for motocross)Reserved seating in Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstanding sections E and F.Track Party: Access to track and trucks, including a meet and greet with drivers, plus photo and autograph opportunitiesAll ticket holders will receive one ride on one of two new, 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound monster trucks. There is no age limit or height restrictions.General Admission Ticket PricingAll other seating is general admission. Ticket prices are $15 for ages 13 and older; $5 for ages 6 through 12; and children 5 and under are free. General admission tickets do not include gate admission to the Fair.Monster truck rides will be available before and after the show at an extra cost to general admission ticket holders.Dirt BundleSave by purchasing tickets to both the monster truck and the motocross show! The package is $25 for adults and $7 for kids ages 6-12. All tickets are general admission and do not include gate admission to the Fair.For more information on purchasing tickets, call the Kansas State Fair Ticket Office at 620-669-3618, stop by the Administration Building located at 2000 N. Poplar St. or visit the Fair’s website, www.kansasstatefair.com.The ticket office will open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting July 1. The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 11-20. The dirt weekend is the final 2020 Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand Entertainment Series announcement. Here is this year’s full lineup:Nex-Gen Bull Riding Tour — 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11. The nation’s top bulls and rising world-class cowboys, who buck up a storm on the pro rodeo circuit, will kick off the 2020 Kansas State Fair. Ticket prices start at $5 for youth and $20 for adults.Tracy Lawrence and Logan Mize — 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15. Mize is an up-and-coming country star from Clearwater, Kansas. His “Come Back Road” album has more than 150 million streams across all platforms and debuted at No. 2 on the Country iTunes chart. Other singles include “It Ain’t Always Pretty, "Can't Get Away from a Good Time,” "Better Off Gone” and “I Ain’t Gotta Grow Up.” Meanwhile, one of country music’s truest traditionalists, Lawrence has sold more than 13 million albums and has charted 18 No. 1 songs. His singles that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 include "Sticks and Stones," "Alibis," "Can't Break It to My Heart," "If the Good Die Young," "Texas Tornado” and "Time Marches On." The most recent No. 1 was in 2007 with "Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” featuring Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw. Lawrence has 22 Top 10 hits, including “Better Man, Better Off,” “If the World Had A Front Porch,” “As Any Fool Can See” and "Paint Me a Birmingham." Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.Newsboys with Adam Agee – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16. Newsboys has defined Christian music since winning their first Dove award in 1995. Along the way, they’ve sold more than 10 million units and amassed eight gold certifications and 33 No. 1 radio hits. Among the chart-toppers are “Shine,” “It is You” and “He Reigns” from earlier years to more recent singles like “Born Again,” “Miracles” and “We Believe” and platinum-certified mega-hit, “God’s Not Dead.” Ticket prices start at $20.38 Special— 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17. Spanning five decades, 38 Special helped write the classic rock soundtrack of the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Hold on Loosely” and “Caught Up in You.” Ticket prices are all general admission – $20 in the grandstand seating area and $45 in the Bud Light Party Pit.Chris Janson– 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18. Janson put himself on the country music map with his single “Buy Me a Boat,” in 2015. The chart-topping, double-platinum single received the iHeartRadio Music Awards Country Song of the Year in 2016 has had more than 82 million streams on Spotify. Other hits include “Drunk Girl,” “Fix a Drink,” “Power of Positive Drinkin’” and “Done.” “Good Vibes” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in October. Ticket prices start at $25.Nelly with Willie Jones — 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Nelly, a diamond-selling, multi-platinum artist, has sold more than 22 million albums, ranking him as one of the best-selling rappers in America. His songs include “Ride Wit Me,” “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones” and “Country Grammar,” which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in June. Rising star Jones blends his country roots with R&amp;B and hip-hop influences. Recent singles include Whole Lotta Love,” “Bachelorettes on Broadway” and “Down For it.” Tickets are still available at $25 and $35. Darci Lynne Farmer — 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20. Teen ventriloquist Darci Lynne Farmer hit stardom in 2017 after becoming one of the youngest contestants to ever win NBC’s America’s Got Talent.” Darci Lynne will be accompanied by her puppet friends: divaesque rabbit Petunia, shy and soulful mouse Oscar and a sarcastic old woman named Edna. Ticket prices start at $20.

Monster truck, motocross action to invade 2020 Kansas State Fair

NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 20th and 21st cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.

The confirmed cases are a male in his 60s and a female in her teens. Both individuals were close contacts of separate, known active cases. They had each previously quarantined as a precaution, and are now in home isolation.

One test was completed by a private lab. The other was completed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories. The Harvey County Health Department will regularly monitor the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.

Harvey County has had 21 COVID-19 cases to date, including 17 confirmed and four probable cases. There are six known active cases in Harvey County. There have been 1,287 tests conducted in Harvey County.

As of Friday, the KDHE confirmed 12,059 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 147,413 completed tests in Kansas.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584475841056.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>NEWTON,
Kan. — 
The Harvey County Health Department has confirmed its 20th and 21st cases of COVID-19 in Harvey County.The confirmed cases are a male in his 60s and a female in her teens. Both individuals were close contacts of separate, known active cases. They had each previously quarantined as a precaution, and are now in home isolation.One test was completed by a private lab. The other was completed by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories. The Harvey County Health Department will regularly monitor the individuals, as well as follow up on all contacts.Harvey County has had 21 COVID-19 cases to date, including 17 confirmed and four probable cases. There are six known active cases in Harvey County. There have been 1,287 tests conducted in Harvey County.As of Friday, the KDHE confirmed 12,059 cases of COVID-19 in the state to date. The KDHE reported 147,413 completed tests in Kansas.Harvey County transitioned to the Phase Out guidance of its Harvey County Health Reopening Plan as of June 17. However, the County has restricted visitation at long-term care facilities through June 23.

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