BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Rep. Patrick Penn, a Wichita Republican elected to the House in 2020, sent a letter to the Sedgwick County Republican Party and state officials announcing plans to resign.

John Whitmer, chairman of the county’s GOP organization, said he received the letter, in which Penn wrote he would leave office in June. The notice dated Wednesday did not explain why Penn would exit the Legislature six months after winning reelection to a two-year term.

“I’m aware of the reasons, but I will let him announce that when he chooses to do so,” Whitmer said.

The bulk of Penn’s 85th District is in Sedgwick County, including parts of the cities of Wichita, Bel Aire and Kechi, as well as a small portion of Butler County.

Contents of his resignation letter sent to Secretary of State Scott Schwab indicated that his vision for a prosperous Kansas and his family’s values of faith, family and service would continue to guide him,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article306503771.html" target="_blank">according to the Wichita Eagle</a>. In addition, the letter said he would work with the next representative to serve the district, and intended to remain “engaged in our community’s future.”

A precinct election was scheduled for 6 p.m. on May 28 to nominate a person to serve the remainder of the conservative Republican’s term.

“Anyone who wants to run for the seat is allowed to do so if they happen to be a resident of the district,” Whitmer said. “I know of at least two or three people who have expressed an interest.”

The person selected to replace Penn would remain a representative-elect until sworn into office after Penn’s resignation was complete. That individual would be eligible to complete Penn’s current term in the House, which would end in January 2027.

Penn, a former U.S. Army officer who deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, sought the House seat and defeated Rep. Michael Capps in the August 2020 primary. Capps was politically damaged by reports that he conspired with other Sedgwick County Republicans to damage the reputation of the Wichita mayor and engaged in a recorded conversation about how to conceal their involvement.

Penn was a persistent advocate for the Second Amendment right to bear arms and sought passage of legislation that introduced firearm training to elementary students.

He was combative with some statehouse reporters and provoked controversy this year by discussing on the House floor with Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, the hypothetical idea of instigating an act of violence against former Democratic Rep. Jason Probst. Sweely defeated Probst by less than 300 votes in the 2024 election.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747409260206.png" alt=" Rep. Patrick Penn, R-Wichita, shown here at the Statehouse in 2024, announced Thursday that he will resign in June. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Rep. Patrick Penn, R-Wichita, shown here at the Statehouse in 2024, announced Thursday that he will resign in June. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Rep. Patrick Penn, a Wichita Republican elected to the House in 2020, sent a letter to the Sedgwick County Republican Party and state officials announcing plans to resign.John Whitmer, chairman of the county’s GOP organization, said he received the letter, in which Penn wrote he would leave office in June. The notice dated Wednesday did not explain why Penn would exit the Legislature six months after winning reelection to a two-year term.“I’m aware of the reasons, but I will let him announce that when he chooses to do so,” Whitmer said.The bulk of Penn’s 85th District is in Sedgwick County, including parts of the cities of Wichita, Bel Aire and Kechi, as well as a small portion of Butler County.Contents of his resignation letter sent to Secretary of State Scott Schwab indicated that his vision for a prosperous Kansas and his family’s values of faith, family and service would continue to guide him,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article306503771.html" target="_blank">according to the Wichita Eagle</a>. In addition, the letter said he would work with the next representative to serve the district, and intended to remain “engaged in our community’s future.”A precinct election was scheduled for 6 p.m. on May 28 to nominate a person to serve the remainder of the conservative Republican’s term.“Anyone who wants to run for the seat is allowed to do so if they happen to be a resident of the district,” Whitmer said. “I know of at least two or three people who have expressed an interest.”The person selected to replace Penn would remain a representative-elect until sworn into office after Penn’s resignation was complete. That individual would be eligible to complete Penn’s current term in the House, which would end in January 2027.Penn, a former U.S. Army officer who deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, sought the House seat and defeated Rep. Michael Capps in the August 2020 primary. Capps was politically damaged by reports that he conspired with other Sedgwick County Republicans to damage the reputation of the Wichita mayor and engaged in a recorded conversation about how to conceal their involvement.Penn was a persistent advocate for the Second Amendment right to bear arms and sought passage of legislation that introduced firearm training to elementary students.He was combative with some statehouse reporters and provoked controversy this year by discussing on the House floor with Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, the hypothetical idea of instigating an act of violence against former Democratic Rep. Jason Probst. Sweely defeated Probst by less than 300 votes in the 2024 election.

Kansas Republican state Rep. Patrick Penn of Wichita plans to quit House

<a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch Post

BUHLER, Kan. — For Jeff Comer, being honored as the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May is more than an award, it’s a meaningful milestone in the place where his journey began. 

A 2000 graduate of Buhler High School, Comer now teaches in the same classrooms that once shaped his own education. &nbsp;

“As a teacher, it’s sometimes a thankless job,” Comer said. “To have just a little bit of recognition was amazing. That’s not why we teach, we do it for the kids, but it’s still very rewarding.”&nbsp;

Now finishing up his eighth year at his alma mater, Comer teaches civics, modern world history and recently added psychology to his course load at Buhler High School. He is currently facilitating Hutchinson Community College’s Psychology course for upperclassmen while working toward the graduate hours required to teach it independently in the future.

“Last year, an awesome teacher here—Tricia Unruh—retired, and she had taught psychology. I actually had her when I was a student,” Comer said. “That sparked my interest. I taught sociology in El Dorado and loved it, so when she retired, I decided to pick it up.”

Comer said he’s been inspired by the mental side of the subject, especially as it connects to sports and student wellness. He plans to spend the summer revamping the psychology curriculum and refining his overall classroom approach.

“I took a few courses on advanced educational psychology and it really changed my perspective on teaching,” he said.

Comer credits his time as a Buhler student for inspiring his path into education.&nbsp;

“At the time I was oblivious to the great mentoring I was receiving,” Comer said. “People like Brian Wilson, Dave Schroeder, Willie Adkins, Chuck Porter and Don Cameron, they all greatly impacted my life and helped lead me to where I am now. I remember leaving Mr. Wilson’s class thinking I wanted to be a teacher.”&nbsp;

He never expected to return to teach in the same halls where he once roamed as a student, but said the opportunity to come back home in 2017 was a blessing.&nbsp;

“When I interviewed with Principal Mike Ellegood, I realized nothing had really changed about Buhler, it’s still about building relationships and providing a great educational experience,” Comer said. “He embodies what Buhler Schools are all about.”&nbsp;

Comer, a 2004 graduate of Kansas State University, has also served as a high school and junior high football official for nearly two decades. He and his wife, Katie (Reade), a 1998 Buhler graduate, have raised their sons in the Buhler school system, continuing the family tradition.&nbsp;

“Both of my children have been and are being impacted by amazing educators and coaches with USD 313,” Comer said. “I really couldn’t imagine doing any other job. I feel God has guided me to be an educator. Through my experiences at Buhler Schools. I hope I can have even half the impact on my students that my teachers had on me.”&nbsp;

Looking ahead, Comer is eager to grow in his new role teaching psychology. He said the transition has rekindled his passion for the classroom.&nbsp;

“I’m spending this summer revamping the psychology curriculum and all my classes, really,” he said. “I’m going to work until the day I stop improving. That’s how I’ll know when it’s time to move on, when I feel like I can’t get better.”&nbsp;

Comer is finishing up his 20th year teaching, a career which began in 2005 at Marysville Jr./Sr., followed by El Dorado High School in 2006, Newton High School in 2010, before returning to Buhler in 2017.&nbsp;

Comer was nominated by BHS staff member, John Clark: "Mr. Comer builds excellent rapport with all of his students. He utilizes inquiry-based instruction in his social studies classes. He allows his students to guide their learning to provide buy-in which engages them in topics about our society. He encourages his students to learn from our history and to make a difference in their future. I have witnessed his students give presentations to the class and I'm amazed at how much they are learning and can communicate about different topics about our history &amp; world!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747329094597.jpeg" alt="Jeff Comer, pictured with students, has been awarded the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May. " />
 <figcaption>Jeff Comer, pictured with students, has been awarded the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May. </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:sean.boston@eaglemedia.com">SEAN BOSTON</a> Hutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — For Jeff Comer, being honored as the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May is more than an award, it’s a meaningful milestone in the place where his journey began. A 2000 graduate of Buhler High School, Comer now teaches in the same classrooms that once shaped his own education. &nbsp;“As a teacher, it’s sometimes a thankless job,” Comer said. “To have just a little bit of recognition was amazing. That’s not why we teach, we do it for the kids, but it’s still very rewarding.”&nbsp;Now finishing up his eighth year at his alma mater, Comer teaches civics, modern world history and recently added psychology to his course load at Buhler High School. He is currently facilitating Hutchinson Community College’s Psychology course for upperclassmen while working toward the graduate hours required to teach it independently in the future.“Last year, an awesome teacher here—Tricia Unruh—retired, and she had taught psychology. I actually had her when I was a student,” Comer said. “That sparked my interest. I taught sociology in El Dorado and loved it, so when she retired, I decided to pick it up.”Comer said he’s been inspired by the mental side of the subject, especially as it connects to sports and student wellness. He plans to spend the summer revamping the psychology curriculum and refining his overall classroom approach.“I took a few courses on advanced educational psychology and it really changed my perspective on teaching,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747329241051.jpeg" alt="Jeff Comer, pictured with Cris Schul (Allen Samuels), Ashley Weve (EAGLE Media) and Don Glaspie (Allen Samuels), has been awarded the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May. " />
 <figcaption>Jeff Comer, pictured with Cris Schul (Allen Samuels), Ashley Weve (EAGLE Media) and Don Glaspie (Allen Samuels), has been awarded the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May. </figcaption>
 </figure>Comer credits his time as a Buhler student for inspiring his path into education.&nbsp;“At the time I was oblivious to the great mentoring I was receiving,” Comer said. “People like Brian Wilson, Dave Schroeder, Willie Adkins, Chuck Porter and Don Cameron, they all greatly impacted my life and helped lead me to where I am now. I remember leaving Mr. Wilson’s class thinking I wanted to be a teacher.”&nbsp;He never expected to return to teach in the same halls where he once roamed as a student, but said the opportunity to come back home in 2017 was a blessing.&nbsp;“When I interviewed with Principal Mike Ellegood, I realized nothing had really changed about Buhler, it’s still about building relationships and providing a great educational experience,” Comer said. “He embodies what Buhler Schools are all about.”&nbsp;Comer, a 2004 graduate of Kansas State University, has also served as a high school and junior high football official for nearly two decades. He and his wife, Katie (Reade), a 1998 Buhler graduate, have raised their sons in the Buhler school system, continuing the family tradition.&nbsp;“Both of my children have been and are being impacted by amazing educators and coaches with USD 313,” Comer said. “I really couldn’t imagine doing any other job. I feel God has guided me to be an educator. Through my experiences at Buhler Schools. I hope I can have even half the impact on my students that my teachers had on me.”&nbsp;Looking ahead, Comer is eager to grow in his new role teaching psychology. He said the transition has rekindled his passion for the classroom.&nbsp;“I’m spending this summer revamping the psychology curriculum and all my classes, really,” he said. “I’m going to work until the day I stop improving. That’s how I’ll know when it’s time to move on, when I feel like I can’t get better.”&nbsp;Comer is finishing up his 20th year teaching, a career which began in 2005 at Marysville Jr./Sr., followed by El Dorado High School in 2006, Newton High School in 2010, before returning to Buhler in 2017.&nbsp;Comer was nominated by BHS staff member, John Clark: "Mr. Comer builds excellent rapport with all of his students. He utilizes inquiry-based instruction in his social studies classes. He allows his students to guide their learning to provide buy-in which engages them in topics about our society. He encourages his students to learn from our history and to make a difference in their future. I have witnessed his students give presentations to the class and I'm amazed at how much they are learning and can communicate about different topics about our history &amp; world!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747329289458.jpeg" alt="Jeff Comer has been awarded the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May. " />
 <figcaption>Jeff Comer has been awarded the Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Teacher of the Month for May. </figcaption>
 </figure>

Buhler's Jeff Comer returns to roots, earns Teacher of the Month honor

SALINA – Tied at 3-all after three innings in the Plains District Tournament, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team was blitzed by eight unanswered runs by the Kansas City Blue Devils on Thursday.

That eight-run blitz led the sixth-seeded Blue Devils to an 11-3 victory in seven innings over the fourth-seeded Blue Dragons at Dean Evans Stadium and eliminated Hutchinson from the Plains District Tournament.

Head Coach Brock Nehls' second season with the Blue Dragons closes with a 40-21 overall record. Nehls' 91 victories in his first two seasons is the most for a Blue Dragon head coach in his first two years in program history.

After Kansas City scored single runs in each of the first three innings to take a 3-0 lead, the Blue Dragon offense sprung to life in the bottom of the third. A bases-loaded hit-by-pitch to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mustow_adam_sf8t">A.J. Mustow</a>&nbsp;forced home&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/hamrick_cael_iiy0">Cael Hamrick</a>&nbsp;and got the Blue Dragons on the board.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;then hit into an RBI fielder's choice to score&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/tygart_baker_ked6">C.J. Reid</a>&nbsp;to cut the deficit to one.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/fegen_scotty_n1yk">Scotty Fegen</a>&nbsp;tied the game at 3-3 with a sacrifice fly to score&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mazza_antony_9347">Anthony Mazza</a>.

Two innings later, Kansas City had four-straight hits to open the fifth inning and six hits overall in a five-run fifth inning. The Blue Devils added three more runs in the sixth to build an 11-3 lead.

The Blue Dragons were out-hit 14-4 on Thursday.

Fegen was 2 for 2 with a double, stolen base and a sacrifice fly.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/tygart_baker_ked6">C.J. Reid</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;both had singles.

Freshman starting pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/ainsworth_seth_huwf">Seth Ainsworth</a>&nbsp;(5-3) suffered the loss for Hutchinson on Thursday, going 4 2/3 innings with 11 hits and eight runs allowed. He struck out three.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mccombs_noah_7a9n">Noah McCombs</a>&nbsp;pitched 1/3 of an inning,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/phillips_brandt_fntp">Brandt Phillips</a>&nbsp;gave up three runs and three hits in his one inning of work. Sean combs worked a scoreless seventh inning.

Later Friday night Kansas City was eliminated by Cloud County 7-3.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747401654091.jpeg" alt="Scotty Fegen had two hits to lead the Blue Dragon baseball team on Thursday against Kansas City at the Plains District Tournament in Salina. The Blue Dragons were eliminated after an 11-3 loss to KCK. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Scotty Fegen had two hits to lead the Blue Dragon baseball team on Thursday against Kansas City at the Plains District Tournament in Salina. The Blue Dragons were eliminated after an 11-3 loss to KCK. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson CC Sports InformationSALINA – Tied at 3-all after three innings in the Plains District Tournament, the Hutchinson Community College baseball team was blitzed by eight unanswered runs by the Kansas City Blue Devils on Thursday.That eight-run blitz led the sixth-seeded Blue Devils to an 11-3 victory in seven innings over the fourth-seeded Blue Dragons at Dean Evans Stadium and eliminated Hutchinson from the Plains District Tournament.Head Coach Brock Nehls' second season with the Blue Dragons closes with a 40-21 overall record. Nehls' 91 victories in his first two seasons is the most for a Blue Dragon head coach in his first two years in program history.After Kansas City scored single runs in each of the first three innings to take a 3-0 lead, the Blue Dragon offense sprung to life in the bottom of the third. A bases-loaded hit-by-pitch to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mustow_adam_sf8t">A.J. Mustow</a>&nbsp;forced home&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/hamrick_cael_iiy0">Cael Hamrick</a>&nbsp;and got the Blue Dragons on the board.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;then hit into an RBI fielder's choice to score&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/tygart_baker_ked6">C.J. Reid</a>&nbsp;to cut the deficit to one.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/fegen_scotty_n1yk">Scotty Fegen</a>&nbsp;tied the game at 3-3 with a sacrifice fly to score&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mazza_antony_9347">Anthony Mazza</a>.Two innings later, Kansas City had four-straight hits to open the fifth inning and six hits overall in a five-run fifth inning. The Blue Devils added three more runs in the sixth to build an 11-3 lead.The Blue Dragons were out-hit 14-4 on Thursday.Fegen was 2 for 2 with a double, stolen base and a sacrifice fly.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/tygart_baker_ked6">C.J. Reid</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/maher_quinn_nqj4">Quinn Maher</a>&nbsp;both had singles.Freshman starting pitcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/ainsworth_seth_huwf">Seth Ainsworth</a>&nbsp;(5-3) suffered the loss for Hutchinson on Thursday, going 4 2/3 innings with 11 hits and eight runs allowed. He struck out three.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mccombs_noah_7a9n">Noah McCombs</a>&nbsp;pitched 1/3 of an inning,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/phillips_brandt_fntp">Brandt Phillips</a>&nbsp;gave up three runs and three hits in his one inning of work. Sean combs worked a scoreless seventh inning.Later Friday night Kansas City was eliminated by Cloud County 7-3.

⚾ Blue Dragons' 2025 season comes to close

Warm temperature dominated the High Plains this week, with departures ranging up to 20 degrees above normal, especially along the northern portions of the region, while cooler-than-normal temperatures were observed along the southern border.&nbsp;

Precipitation fell across the western and southern portions of the region this week; however, in most areas, amounts were insufficient for significant improvement. Beneficial heavy precipitation (1 to 3 inches) in eastern Colorado and Kansas led to improvements in moderate to severe drought and abnormal dryness in these areas. &nbsp;

Conversely, dry conditions resulted in the introduction and expansion of drought. Extreme drought was introduced in western Nebraska, and moderate to extreme drought expanded in western Colorado and eastern Nebraska.&nbsp;

Abnormal dryness also expanded in southern Wyoming this week.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Here are the rainfall totals for selected locations in the area:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Hutchinson - .05"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; McPherson - .88" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Lyons - .09"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Pratt - .70"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Newton - 1.52" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Kingman - .76" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Stafford - 1.03"

The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Map data courtesy of NDMC.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747333627946.png" alt="Drought Monitor - May 15, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Drought Monitor - May 15, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>Warm temperature dominated the High Plains this week, with departures ranging up to 20 degrees above normal, especially along the northern portions of the region, while cooler-than-normal temperatures were observed along the southern border.&nbsp;Precipitation fell across the western and southern portions of the region this week; however, in most areas, amounts were insufficient for significant improvement. Beneficial heavy precipitation (1 to 3 inches) in eastern Colorado and Kansas led to improvements in moderate to severe drought and abnormal dryness in these areas. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747333508653.png" alt="Drought Monitor - May 15, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Drought Monitor - May 15, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>Conversely, dry conditions resulted in the introduction and expansion of drought. Extreme drought was introduced in western Nebraska, and moderate to extreme drought expanded in western Colorado and eastern Nebraska.&nbsp;Abnormal dryness also expanded in southern Wyoming this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are the rainfall totals for selected locations in the area:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Hutchinson - .05"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; McPherson - .88" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Lyons - .09"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Pratt - .70"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Newton - 1.52" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; •&nbsp; Kingman - .76" &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; • Stafford - 1.03"The U.S. Drought Monitor is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Map data courtesy of NDMC.&nbsp;

Drought Monitor:  Warmer temperatures and little precipitation lead to little change 

For Dr. Riley Dreher, the road to becoming a chiropractor wasn’t a straight line—but it’s one that’s now led him to Boulder, Colorado, where he’ll begin his career helping athletes and active individuals stay healthy and injury-free.

Dreher, a Buhler High School graduate and former multi-sport athlete, recently earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Parker University in Dallas. He plans to be a partner, with a family member, in a chiropractic practice in Boulder, focusing on sports medicine and functional health.

“It hasn’t really sunk in yet,” Dreher said in a recent interview. “I just got my license the other day, and now I’m preparing to move and get started. But I’m excited to start serving my new community.”

His inspiration for the career path goes back to third grade, when a neck injury during a baseball tournament led him to local chiropractor Dr. Jerry Burning. The experience left a lasting impression.

“He fixed me up, and I thought, ‘This guy just changed my life with his hands,’” Dreher said. “From then on, I knew I wanted to help people the same way.

After earning an associate degree in science from Hutchinson Community College and a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Wichita State University, Dreher took time off to gain life experience, including working as a wildland firefighter out west. He eventually enrolled at Parker University, drawn by its evidence-based approach to chiropractic care.

“Parker had the sports medicine focus and the research backing I wanted,” he said. “It’s not just about feeling better—it’s about understanding why treatments work and how we can track progress.”

During his time at Parker, Dreher earned leadership honors and was recognized by the university board with a prestigious award given to one student each trimester. He also joined the Motion Palpation Institute (MPI), a national organization that helped shape his treatment philosophy and connect him with like-minded professionals.

Now, Dreher is preparing to treat Boulder’s active population, from high school athletes to outdoor enthusiasts. His practice will emphasize detailed assessments, one-on-one appointments, and tailored rehabilitation plans designed to address root causes of pain.

“The goal is to get people back to doing what they love—whether that’s being on the field, hitting the trails, or skiing,” he said. “We’re looking at long-term solutions, not just quick fixes.”

Though he's starting a new chapter in Colorado, Dreher acknowledges the support of his Kansas roots, including his parents, Rob Dreher and Dana Copple, who he credits for their constant encouragement.

“They’ve always had my back,” he said. “And I hope I can make them proud as I start this next journey.”

When asked if a return to Kansas might be in the cards someday, Dreher smiled. “Never say never,” he said.

For now, the newly minted chiropractor is ready to make an impact in Boulder—one adjustment at a time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747316136250.jpeg" alt="Dr. Riley Dreher - courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Riley Dreher - courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;For Dr. Riley Dreher, the road to becoming a chiropractor wasn’t a straight line—but it’s one that’s now led him to Boulder, Colorado, where he’ll begin his career helping athletes and active individuals stay healthy and injury-free.Dreher, a Buhler High School graduate and former multi-sport athlete, recently earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Parker University in Dallas. He plans to be a partner, with a family member, in a chiropractic practice in Boulder, focusing on sports medicine and functional health.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747318758395.png" alt="<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/314ac928-e7b4-4e21-a7cc-1f2f5d48c068">Click here to hear the complete interview with Dr. Riley Dreher</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/314ac928-e7b4-4e21-a7cc-1f2f5d48c068">Click here to hear the complete interview with Dr. Riley Dreher</a></figcaption>
 </figure>“It hasn’t really sunk in yet,” Dreher said in a recent interview. “I just got my license the other day, and now I’m preparing to move and get started. But I’m excited to start serving my new community.”His inspiration for the career path goes back to third grade, when a neck injury during a baseball tournament led him to local chiropractor Dr. Jerry Burning. The experience left a lasting impression.“He fixed me up, and I thought, ‘This guy just changed my life with his hands,’” Dreher said. “From then on, I knew I wanted to help people the same way.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747315927173.jpeg" alt="Dr. Riley Dreher - Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Riley Dreher - Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>After earning an associate degree in science from Hutchinson Community College and a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Wichita State University, Dreher took time off to gain life experience, including working as a wildland firefighter out west. He eventually enrolled at Parker University, drawn by its evidence-based approach to chiropractic care.“Parker had the sports medicine focus and the research backing I wanted,” he said. “It’s not just about feeling better—it’s about understanding why treatments work and how we can track progress.”During his time at Parker, Dreher earned leadership honors and was recognized by the university board with a prestigious award given to one student each trimester. He also joined the Motion Palpation Institute (MPI), a national organization that helped shape his treatment philosophy and connect him with like-minded professionals.Now, Dreher is preparing to treat Boulder’s active population, from high school athletes to outdoor enthusiasts. His practice will emphasize detailed assessments, one-on-one appointments, and tailored rehabilitation plans designed to address root causes of pain.“The goal is to get people back to doing what they love—whether that’s being on the field, hitting the trails, or skiing,” he said. “We’re looking at long-term solutions, not just quick fixes.”Though he's starting a new chapter in Colorado, Dreher acknowledges the support of his Kansas roots, including his parents, Rob Dreher and Dana Copple, who he credits for their constant encouragement.“They’ve always had my back,” he said. “And I hope I can make them proud as I start this next journey.”When asked if a return to Kansas might be in the cards someday, Dreher smiled. “Never say never,” he said.For now, the newly minted chiropractor is ready to make an impact in Boulder—one adjustment at a time.

Buhler grad takes chiropractic skills to Colorado via not so direct path

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Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 500 block of East Sherman.

William Kelly moved to Hutchinson in 1891 and, along with William Carr, partnered to establish the Monarch Flour Mill at Avenue D and Washington.

In 1905, William McMillian of the Kansas Grain Co. built a showcase home at 512 E. Sherman. It was an "Old Style" architectural design that had 28 rooms. The first photo shows that grand home.

Also in 1905, William Kelly broke off to establish the William Kelly Milling Co. at 400 S. Main Street. The second photo shows that venture in 1908.

Kelly's Famous Flour went on to become nationally successful.

In 1911, William McMillian sold out his interests here to move to Seattle, Washington. That included his 512 E. Sherman residence that he sold to William Kelly. His son Charles Kelly inherited the home, but in the 1950s it was subdivided into apartments.

In June of 1980, the 400 S. Main mill was vacated and razed.

In 1988, the 1500 E. Ave. B facility was sold to the Irsik-Doll Feed Co.

The third photo shows the 512 E. Sherman residence today, still multiple apartments, owned by Frankenfield Investments L.L.C. of Wichita.

To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747255791060.png" alt="William Kelly (Kelly Mills) Residence - 512 E. Sherman - c. 1920. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>William Kelly (Kelly Mills) Residence - 512 E. Sherman - c. 1920. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714573898261.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>STEVE HARMON Hutch Post ContributorToday's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 500 block of East Sherman.William Kelly moved to Hutchinson in 1891 and, along with William Carr, partnered to establish the Monarch Flour Mill at Avenue D and Washington.In 1905, William McMillian of the Kansas Grain Co. built a showcase home at 512 E. Sherman. It was an "Old Style" architectural design that had 28 rooms. The first photo shows that grand home.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747255791060.png" alt="William Kelly (Kelly Mills) Residence - 512 E. Sherman - c. 1920. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>William Kelly (Kelly Mills) Residence - 512 E. Sherman - c. 1920. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Also in 1905, William Kelly broke off to establish the William Kelly Milling Co. at 400 S. Main Street. The second photo shows that venture in 1908.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747255878339.png" alt="William Kelly Milling Co. - 400 S. Main - 1908 (Home of Kelly's Famous Flour). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>William Kelly Milling Co. - 400 S. Main - 1908 (Home of Kelly's Famous Flour). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kelly's Famous Flour went on to become nationally successful.In 1911, William McMillian sold out his interests here to move to Seattle, Washington. That included his 512 E. Sherman residence that he sold to William Kelly. His son Charles Kelly inherited the home, but in the 1950s it was subdivided into apartments.In June of 1980, the 400 S. Main mill was vacated and razed.In 1988, the 1500 E. Ave. B facility was sold to the Irsik-Doll Feed Co.The third photo shows the 512 E. Sherman residence today, still multiple apartments, owned by Frankenfield Investments L.L.C. of Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747255977508.png" alt="William Kelly Home - 512 E. Sherman - April 11, 2025. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>William Kelly Home - 512 E. Sherman - April 11, 2025. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: William Kelly Residence - Vol. 122

 Law enforcement agencies across the country are observing National Police Week, a time set aside to honor officers who have died in the line of duty and to show support for those who continue to serve.

President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation in 1962 designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Since then, communities nationwide have held events in recognition of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers.

The annual Candlelight Vigil, a hallmark of the week, will take place Tuesday from 8 to 10 p.m. on the National Mall in Washington. During the ceremony, high-ranking government officials and others will read aloud the names of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The event will be streamed live on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund’s YouTube, Facebook and X platforms. More details can be found at nleomf.org.

In Kansas, several local observances are scheduled to commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.

In Rice County, the Sheriff’s Office will observe Peace Officers Memorial Day with a ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday in the front parking lot of the agency’s headquarters.

Harvey County will hold a remembrance ceremony Thursday at 11:30 a.m. in front of the Law Enforcement Center at 120 E. Seventh St. in Newton. Officials there said the ceremony provides an opportunity to reflect and honor those who gave their lives in service.

“We’re proud of the work of our deputies here at the sheriff’s office, as well as the local departments throughout our county,” a Harvey County Sheriff's Office spokesperson said. “Thank you for what you do for our residents.”

In Reno County, the Hutchinson Police Department and the Reno County Sheriff’s Office will host a ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday at the Law Enforcement Center.

McPherson County held its memorial service Wednesday evening.

Peace Officers Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement and the enduring legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of public safety.

Here is a list of the fallen officers in the Hutch Post-area

Reno County Sheriff’s Office &nbsp; Undersheriff Edward Metz – Jan. 7, 1901&nbsp; |Undersheriff Metz was killed after being run over by a Missouri Pacific passenger train. Undersheriff Metz was boarding the train for Wellington where he was to testify in a horse thief trial. His body was found with his legs and hand severed. Although there were signs of a struggle it is not known for sure whether his death was accidental or a result of a crime.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Deputy Sheriff Thomas Fowler – Dec. 11, 1910&nbsp; Deputy Sheriff Thomas Fowler was shot and killed while transporting a subject to jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He had just arrested the man following a stakeout of burglary tools in Hutchinson. When the man arrived at the scene Deputy Fowler arrested him. The suspect attempted to bribe Deputy Fowler as he was being driven to jail. When Deputy Fowler refused the bribe the man produced a pistol and fired a warning shot. As Deputy Fowler reached for his own gun the man shot him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The suspect was apprehended in Ottawa, Kansas, in April of 1911. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. On July 11, 1916, he was hospitalized in critical condition after he was stabbed by a fellow inmate. Many newspaper reports stating he could not live were wrong. He recovered after six weeks in the hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deputy Fowler was survived by four sons. He was preceded in death by his wife.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hutchinson Police Department &nbsp; Officer Reason Sherman Monroe – July 3, 1924&nbsp; On July 2nd, 1924, Officer Reason Sherman Monroe went to Brubaker Grocery store, located at 123 S. Adams, to locate a suspect who had earlier pistol whipped his wife. When Officer Monroe confronted the suspect, the suspect picked up his four-year-old son and used him as a shield, as he shot at Officer Monroe. &nbsp;

Officer Monroe refused to return fire in fear that he would strike the young child, and he was shot multiple times. Officer Monroe was transported to Grace Methodist hospital, located at 7th and Main, where he died from his injuries on July 3rd,1924. Officer Reason Sherman Monroe, end of watch July 3rd, 1924.&nbsp;

Officer Kenneth Kennedy – Sept. 15, 1972&nbsp; On Friday, September 15th, 1972, Officer Kenneth Kennedy and Reserve Officer Michael Coldren went to 918 South Plum in plain clothes and attempted to buy liquor in violation of the law. &nbsp;

After the undercover purchase of illegal liquor, the officers attempted to arrest the male suspect, and a fight ensued. A female exited the kitchen area during the struggle and shot both officers. &nbsp;

Officer Ken Kennedy return fire and struck the female suspect twice. Officer Kennedy pulled the trigger two more times on his revolver but did not have the strength to have the hammer fall. Officer Ken Kennedy succumbed to his injuries and died on scene. &nbsp;

Officer Coldren was rendered unconscious from a gunshot to the head and when he regained consciousness summoned help. The section of K-61 that runs through Hutchinson was named in honor of Officer Kennedy. Officer Kenneth Kennedy, end of watch September 15th, 1972.&nbsp;

McPherson Police Department&nbsp; Charles Marrion Bruce&nbsp; - March 14, 1933&nbsp;

Night Chief Charles Bruce was shot and killed after interrupting a burglary at a local gas station.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

After informing the owner of the station, he returned to the location and found several men in front of the business. They opened fire on him, fatally wounding him. The suspects were later shot and killed by a posse.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chief Bruce was a United States Army WWI veteran. He was survived by his wife, three sons, and a daughter.&nbsp;

Martin H. Grant&nbsp;- &nbsp;Feb. 12, 1937&nbsp;

Night Chief Grant suffered a fatal heart shortly after struggling with a suspect. He had responded to a cafe at North Main Street and struggled with a disorderly patron. He was able to place the man under arrest and took him to the City Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Chief Grant began to feel sick shortly after midnight and collapsed shortly thereafter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harvey County Sheriff's Office Kurt Andrew Ford - April 9, 2006

Deputy Sheriff Kurt Ford was shot and killed while conducting a forced entry during a hostage situation at 131 SE 14th Street in Newton.  

The hostage situation stemmed from a domestic disturbance earlier in the evening. When officers arrived at the home the male subject took a female subject hostage. Deputy Ford and other members of the Harvey County Emergency Response Team responded to the scene. Three hours into the standoff the subject started attacking the hostage. The ERT team made a forced entry into the home and was met with gunfire from the man, who was armed with two handguns.  

Deputy Ford was struck in the head and fatally wounded. Another member of the team, a detective with the Hesston Police Department, was shot twice and wounded. The subject remained barricaded in the home for an additional five hours before surrendering.  

The subject, a convicted felon, had a history of domestic violence reports at his home. Police later found multiple weapons at the scene. The man was convicted of capital murder on June 28th, 2006, and was subsequently sentenced to life in prison.  

Deputy Ford had just returned to law enforcement to serve with the Harvey County Sheriff's Office four months earlier. He had previously served in law enforcement for 13 years with multiple agencies in Kansas and Colorado. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

Newton Police Department Albert J. DuFriend - Nov. 22, 1928 Night Chief DuFriend died after being stricken by internal hemorrhaging while responding to a store robbery with another officer.

The hemorrhaging was brought on by a combination of the excitement of the call and his asthma.

Assistant Chief Harry L Bolin - June 17, 1932 Assistant Chief Bolin was killed in an automobile accident while following a car he suspected of transporting illegal whiskey.

To avoid detection, he was driving without headlights on and ran off the road into a ditch.&nbsp;

Kingman Police Department Captain Larry Berry - April 15, 1973 &nbsp;Captain Larry Beery was shot and killed while checking on business doors in the early morning.&nbsp;

The suspect(s) fled the scene and were never identified. They remain at large.&nbsp;

Captain Beery was a United States Air Force veteran and had served with the Kingman Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.&nbsp;

He is buried at Clear Creek Cemetery in Leon County, Texas.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Pratt Police Department Officer William Henry Rich Officer Rich was struck and killed by a vehicle while painting a "No U-turn" sign on a street at 1 a.m.

Rice County Sheriff's Office&nbsp; Deputy William Henry Everett - Nov. 24, 1954 Deputy William Everett was struck and killed by a drunk driver after responding to the scene of an accident on the Little Arkansas bridge of U.S. Highway 50.

When he arrived, he found debris in the roadway but could not locate the driver or the vehicle. The driver had returned to the accident scene to see the damage to the bridge. When he returned, he struck Deputy Everett, severing his leg. Deputy Everett bled to death at the scene of the incident. 

The driver of the vehicle that struck Deputy Everett was intoxicated. He pled guilty to fourth-degree manslaughter and was sentenced to two years. 

Deputy Everett was a United States World War I veteran and had served with the Rice County Sheriff's Office for 2 years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634923608554.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly set a wreath at the Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial in 2020 when the public service honoring officers killed in the line of duty in Kansas was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Screen capture from office of the governor/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly set a wreath at the Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial in 2020 when the public service honoring officers killed in the line of duty in Kansas was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Screen capture from office of the governor/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure> Law enforcement agencies across the country are observing National Police Week, a time set aside to honor officers who have died in the line of duty and to show support for those who continue to serve.President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation in 1962 designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Since then, communities nationwide have held events in recognition of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers.The annual Candlelight Vigil, a hallmark of the week, will take place Tuesday from 8 to 10 p.m. on the National Mall in Washington. During the ceremony, high-ranking government officials and others will read aloud the names of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The event will be streamed live on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund’s YouTube, Facebook and X platforms. More details can be found at nleomf.org.In Kansas, several local observances are scheduled to commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.In Rice County, the Sheriff’s Office will observe Peace Officers Memorial Day with a ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday in the front parking lot of the agency’s headquarters.Harvey County will hold a remembrance ceremony Thursday at 11:30 a.m. in front of the Law Enforcement Center at 120 E. Seventh St. in Newton. Officials there said the ceremony provides an opportunity to reflect and honor those who gave their lives in service.“We’re proud of the work of our deputies here at the sheriff’s office, as well as the local departments throughout our county,” a Harvey County Sheriff's Office spokesperson said. “Thank you for what you do for our residents.”In Reno County, the Hutchinson Police Department and the Reno County Sheriff’s Office will host a ceremony at 11 a.m. Friday at the Law Enforcement Center.McPherson County held its memorial service Wednesday evening.Peace Officers Memorial Day serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement and the enduring legacy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of public safety.Here is a list of the fallen officers in the Hutch Post-area<h2>Reno County &nbsp;</h2>Reno County Sheriff’s Office &nbsp; Undersheriff Edward Metz – Jan. 7, 1901&nbsp; |Undersheriff Metz was killed after being run over by a Missouri Pacific passenger train. Undersheriff Metz was boarding the train for Wellington where he was to testify in a horse thief trial. His body was found with his legs and hand severed. Although there were signs of a struggle it is not known for sure whether his death was accidental or a result of a crime.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Deputy Sheriff Thomas Fowler – Dec. 11, 1910&nbsp; Deputy Sheriff Thomas Fowler was shot and killed while transporting a subject to jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He had just arrested the man following a stakeout of burglary tools in Hutchinson. When the man arrived at the scene Deputy Fowler arrested him. The suspect attempted to bribe Deputy Fowler as he was being driven to jail. When Deputy Fowler refused the bribe the man produced a pistol and fired a warning shot. As Deputy Fowler reached for his own gun the man shot him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The suspect was apprehended in Ottawa, Kansas, in April of 1911. He was convicted of murder and sentenced to life. On July 11, 1916, he was hospitalized in critical condition after he was stabbed by a fellow inmate. Many newspaper reports stating he could not live were wrong. He recovered after six weeks in the hospital.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Deputy Fowler was survived by four sons. He was preceded in death by his wife.&nbsp; &nbsp;Hutchinson Police Department &nbsp; Officer Reason Sherman Monroe – July 3, 1924&nbsp; On July 2nd, 1924, Officer Reason Sherman Monroe went to Brubaker Grocery store, located at 123 S. Adams, to locate a suspect who had earlier pistol whipped his wife. When Officer Monroe confronted the suspect, the suspect picked up his four-year-old son and used him as a shield, as he shot at Officer Monroe. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747273278462.jpeg" alt="Officer Reason Sherman Monroe - Hutchinson Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Officer Reason Sherman Monroe - Hutchinson Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Officer Monroe refused to return fire in fear that he would strike the young child, and he was shot multiple times. Officer Monroe was transported to Grace Methodist hospital, located at 7th and Main, where he died from his injuries on July 3rd,1924. Officer Reason Sherman Monroe, end of watch July 3rd, 1924.&nbsp;Officer Kenneth Kennedy – Sept. 15, 1972&nbsp; On Friday, September 15th, 1972, Officer Kenneth Kennedy and Reserve Officer Michael Coldren went to 918 South Plum in plain clothes and attempted to buy liquor in violation of the law. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747273312603.jpeg" alt="This was an edited image of Officer Kennedy to honor him in 2022, 50 years after died in the line of duty. - Hutchinson Police Department" />
 <figcaption>This was an edited image of Officer Kennedy to honor him in 2022, 50 years after died in the line of duty. - Hutchinson Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>After the undercover purchase of illegal liquor, the officers attempted to arrest the male suspect, and a fight ensued. A female exited the kitchen area during the struggle and shot both officers. &nbsp;Officer Ken Kennedy return fire and struck the female suspect twice. Officer Kennedy pulled the trigger two more times on his revolver but did not have the strength to have the hammer fall. Officer Ken Kennedy succumbed to his injuries and died on scene. &nbsp;Officer Coldren was rendered unconscious from a gunshot to the head and when he regained consciousness summoned help. The section of K-61 that runs through Hutchinson was named in honor of Officer Kennedy. Officer Kenneth Kennedy, end of watch September 15th, 1972.&nbsp;<h2>McPherson County&nbsp;</h2>McPherson Police Department&nbsp; Charles Marrion Bruce&nbsp; - March 14, 1933&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747271062397.jpeg" alt="Night Police Chief Charles Marrion Bruce - McPherson Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Night Police Chief Charles Marrion Bruce - McPherson Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Night Chief Charles Bruce was shot and killed after interrupting a burglary at a local gas station.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;After informing the owner of the station, he returned to the location and found several men in front of the business. They opened fire on him, fatally wounding him. The suspects were later shot and killed by a posse.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chief Bruce was a United States Army WWI veteran. He was survived by his wife, three sons, and a daughter.&nbsp;Martin H. Grant&nbsp;- &nbsp;Feb. 12, 1937&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747271101643.jpeg" alt="Night Chief Grant - McPherson Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Night Chief Grant - McPherson Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Night Chief Grant suffered a fatal heart shortly after struggling with a suspect. He had responded to a cafe at North Main Street and struggled with a disorderly patron. He was able to place the man under arrest and took him to the City Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Chief Grant began to feel sick shortly after midnight and collapsed shortly thereafter.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Harvey County&nbsp;</h2>Harvey County Sheriff's Office Kurt Andrew Ford - April 9, 2006<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747274077247.jpeg" alt="Deputy Kurt Ford - Harvey County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Kurt Ford - Harvey County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputy Sheriff Kurt Ford was shot and killed while conducting a forced entry during a hostage situation at 131 SE 14th Street in Newton. The hostage situation stemmed from a domestic disturbance earlier in the evening. When officers arrived at the home the male subject took a female subject hostage. Deputy Ford and other members of the Harvey County Emergency Response Team responded to the scene. Three hours into the standoff the subject started attacking the hostage. The ERT team made a forced entry into the home and was met with gunfire from the man, who was armed with two handguns. Deputy Ford was struck in the head and fatally wounded. Another member of the team, a detective with the Hesston Police Department, was shot twice and wounded. The subject remained barricaded in the home for an additional five hours before surrendering. The subject, a convicted felon, had a history of domestic violence reports at his home. Police later found multiple weapons at the scene. The man was convicted of capital murder on June 28th, 2006, and was subsequently sentenced to life in prison. Deputy Ford had just returned to law enforcement to serve with the Harvey County Sheriff's Office four months earlier. He had previously served in law enforcement for 13 years with multiple agencies in Kansas and Colorado. He is survived by his wife and two sons.Newton Police Department Albert J. DuFriend - Nov. 22, 1928 Night Chief DuFriend died after being stricken by internal hemorrhaging while responding to a store robbery with another officer. The hemorrhaging was brought on by a combination of the excitement of the call and his asthma.Assistant Chief Harry L Bolin - June 17, 1932 Assistant Chief Bolin was killed in an automobile accident while following a car he suspected of transporting illegal whiskey. To avoid detection, he was driving without headlights on and ran off the road into a ditch.&nbsp;<h2>Kingman County&nbsp;</h2>Kingman Police Department Captain Larry Berry - April 15, 1973 &nbsp;Captain Larry Beery was shot and killed while checking on business doors in the early morning.&nbsp;The suspect(s) fled the scene and were never identified. They remain at large.&nbsp;Captain Beery was a United States Air Force veteran and had served with the Kingman Police Department for five years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.&nbsp;He is buried at Clear Creek Cemetery in Leon County, Texas.&nbsp; &nbsp;<h2>Pratt County</h2>Pratt Police Department Officer William Henry Rich Officer Rich was struck and killed by a vehicle while painting a "No U-turn" sign on a street at 1 a.m.<h2>Rice County</h2>Rice County Sheriff's Office&nbsp; Deputy William Henry Everett - Nov. 24, 1954 Deputy William Everett was struck and killed by a drunk driver after responding to the scene of an accident on the Little Arkansas bridge of U.S. Highway 50. When he arrived, he found debris in the roadway but could not locate the driver or the vehicle. The driver had returned to the accident scene to see the damage to the bridge. When he returned, he struck Deputy Everett, severing his leg. Deputy Everett bled to death at the scene of the incident. The driver of the vehicle that struck Deputy Everett was intoxicated. He pled guilty to fourth-degree manslaughter and was sentenced to two years. Deputy Everett was a United States World War I veteran and had served with the Rice County Sheriff's Office for 2 years. He was survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

Remembering fallen Law Enforcement officers 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747315144757.jpeg" alt="Anthony Mazza drives in a career-high five RBIs and ties the Blue Dragon single-season doubles record with his 27th of the season in the Blue Dragons 9-1 run-rule win over Barton in the Plains District Tournament on Wednesday at Dean Evans Stadium in Salina. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Anthony Mazza drives in a career-high five RBIs and ties the Blue Dragon single-season doubles record with his 27th of the season in the Blue Dragons 9-1 run-rule win over Barton in the Plains District Tournament on Wednesday at Dean Evans Stadium in Salina. (Sammi Carpenter/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Blue Dragon Sports Information
SALINA &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mazza_antony_9347">Anthony Mazza</a>&nbsp;drove in a career-best five runs to help the Hutchinson Community College baseball team stay alive in the Plains District Baseball Tournament on Wednesday.
No. 5-seed Hutchinson eliminated top-seed Barton 9-1 in seven innings in a first-round elimination game at Dean Evans Stadium.
The Blue Dragons move onto a second-round elimination game in the eight-team double-elimination tournament to play No. 6-seed Kansas City (38-21) at 10 a.m. on Thursday. Should the Blue Dragons play against Kansas City, they would play again at 7 p.m. on Thursday in a third-round elimination game against the Cloud County/Coffeyville winner.
BLUE DRAGON BASEBALL No. 5 Hutchinson (40-20) vs. No. 6 Kansas City (38-21) Plains District Tournament &ndash; 2nd-round elimination When: Thursday, May 14, 2025 Where: Dean Evans Stadium, Salina, KS Time: 10 a.m. Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://kjccc.org/watch">KJCCC Network, 9:55 a.m.</a> X: @bluedragonsport <a href="https://kjccc.org/sports/bsb/2024-25/boxscores/20250515_qqes.xml">CLICK FOR LIVE STATS</a>
The Blue Dragons (40-20) reached the 40-win plateau for the second-straight season and for the 11th time in program history.
Mazza went 3 for 5 with a double, home run and a career single-game high five RBIs to lead the Blue Dragons on Wednesday. He also scored a pair of runs.
After a two-hit game in the opening round against Cowley, Mazza got the Blue Dragons going early with a two-run home run in the first inning. Mazza added a single in the third and then came up with the bases loaded in the fourth. Mazza ripped a three-run double as part of a five-run inning to build an 8-0 lead.
That double was Mazza's 27th of the season, which tied Thad Weber (2006) for the Blue Dragon single-season record for doubles. Mazza now has 87 hits for the season, which ties Cooper Wesslund (2024) for seventh on the single-season hits list.
The Blue Dragons out-hit the Cougars 11-4 on Wednesday.
<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/griffin_leo_z3t1">Leo Griffin</a>&nbsp;went 2 for 3 with two runs and a stolen base.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/hamrick_cael_iiy0">Cael Hamrick</a>&nbsp;was 2 for 4 with a double, run scored and RBI.
<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/mustow_adam_sf8t">A.J. Mustow</a>&nbsp;was 1 for 4 with an RBI double.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/fegen_scotty_n1yk">Scotty Fegen</a>&nbsp;added an RBI single.
Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/roehler_trenton_pudh">Trenton Roehler</a>&nbsp;(7-3) worked six innings to earn the pitching victory. Roehler struck out six while allowing only three hits, one earned run and two walks.
With his fifth strikeout of the game in the fifth inning, Roehler moved past Jody Harris (1993-95) into second place on the Blue Dragon career strikeout list with 156 career strikeouts. Now 15-4 in his career, Roehler tied Craig Reed, Shawn Lewick, Kyle Simonds and Ethan Giesbrecht for fifth on the Blue Dragon career list for the fifth-most career wins in Blue Dragon history.
Leading 2-0 entering the fourth, the Blue Dragons broke the game open with a five-run inning. Hamrick singled home&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/stokes_taber_u8n0">Taber Stokes</a>&nbsp;to open the inning. Then with the bases loaded, Mazza hit his bases-loaded double. Mustow then doubled in Mazza with the fifth run of the inning for a 7-0 lead.
The Cougars got their lone run in the bottom of the fourth.
Then in the top of the seventh, Griffin led off the inning with a walk and was moved to second by an Eli Duncan sacrifice bunt. With two out, Hamrick doubled home Griffin with the ninth run to put the Dragons within range of a run-rule win.
The Cougars loaded the bases with two out against&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/bsb/2024-25/bios/flores_colin_o7x4">Colin Flores</a>, but the Dragon freshman closer induced a game-ending groundout.
GAME NOTES&nbsp;&ndash; Head coach Brock Nehls led his second-straight 40-wins season with the Blue Dragons. He ties Kyle Crookes and John Burgi for the second-most 40-win seasons by a Hutchinson head coach.</div>

⚾ HutchCC stays alive in Plains District Tournament with win over 1-seed Barton

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747314828551.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon athletes David Thid (middle), Deisheline Mayer Scott (left) and Titus Kiprotich (right) highlight Day 1 of the NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships on Thursday at Gowans Stadium." />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon athletes David Thid (middle), Deisheline Mayer Scott (left) and Titus Kiprotich (right) highlight Day 1 of the NJCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships on Thursday at Gowans Stadium.</figcaption>
 </figure><div>Hutchinson CC Sports Information
Defending national champion&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/thid_david_57oh">David Thid</a>&nbsp;opens his title defense to highlight Day 1 for the Hutchinson Community College men's and women's track and field teams at the 2025 NJCAA Outdoor Championships, which begin Thursday at Gowans Stadium.
This will be the eighth time that the new Gowans Stadium will play host to the NJCAA Outdoor Championships
BLUE DRAGON TRACK AND FIELD NJCAA Division I Outdoor Championships &ndash; Day 1 When: Thursday, May 15, 2025 Where: Gowans Stadium Times Multi Events&nbsp;&ndash; 9 a.m. Field Events&nbsp;&ndash; 11 a.m. Running Events&nbsp;&ndash; 5:00 p.m. Live Results:&nbsp;<a href="https://milesplit.live/meets/645932" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Heartland Timing</a> Live Video:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.njcaa.org/network/landing/index" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NJCAA Network (PPV) &ndash; 9 a.m.</a> <a href="https://bluedragonsports.com/information/NJCAA_National_Track/NJCAA_Track_Lede_Page">CLICK FOR NJCAA CHAMPIONSHIP WEB SITE</a>
As a freshman, Thid captured the 2024 NJCAA national championship in the 400-meter hurdles where he set a Blue Dragon record in the event of 50.76 seconds.
This takes the second-best time in the national into Thursday's preliminary round with a time of 51.00 seconds set at the Kansas Wesleyan Coyote Classic on April 18.
Thursday's 400-meter preliminaries are scheduled for 6:15 p.m. and the finals are Saturday.
Blue Dragon 10,000-meter record holder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/kiprotich_titus_hgfs">Titus Kiprotich</a>&nbsp;competes in the first of his three events on Thursday night with the men's 10,000 meters. That race has been pushed back to 9:20 p.m. because of potential heat issues. Kiprotich is ranked 10th in the nation (30:27.83) coming in and Blue Dragon freshman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/kogo_cornelius_hf87">Cornelius Kogo</a>&nbsp;is ranked 13th (30:55.96).
Sophomore&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/williams_elisha_7e2c">Elisha Williams</a>&nbsp;is ranked fourth in the men's long jump enter the championships. Williams' mark of 25-3 1/2 (7.70 meters) was actually set in the NJCAA Indoor national championships, which earned him third place. Williams opens the field events for the Blue Dragons at 11 a.m.
Thrower Deisheline Mayer Scott and distance runner Jordyn Picolet lead the Blue Dragon women on Day 1.
Mayer Scott competes in the first of her three events at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Her best performance in the hammer is 143 feet, 6 inches set at the Mark A. Phillips Classic in March.
Picolet goes after the school record in the 10,000 at 8:30 p.m. at Gowans. Picolet, who owns the 5,000-meter Blue Dragon record, has the second-fastest 10,000 time of 39.46.51.
Here is Thursday's Blue Dragon performance schedule for Day 1: 11 a.m. &ndash; Women's Hammer (State Fairgrounds): Deisheline Mayer Scott; Aiyanna Green 11 a.m. &ndash; Men's Long Jump:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/williams_elisha_7e2c">Elisha Williams</a> 1 p.m. &ndash; Women's Pole Vault: Grace Bender, Alycea McCoy 2 p.m. &ndash; Men's Hammer (State Fairgrounds): Tyler Zehr 5 p.m. &ndash; Men's Pole Vault:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/martinez_gregory_ohfu">Gregory Martinez</a>;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/spencer_jayce_3o70">Jayce Spencer</a> 5:45 p.m. &ndash; Men's 4x100 Relay Preliminary: Giovanni Jones,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/telemaque_rickyle_kzmg">Rickyle Telemaque</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/warren_d-antonio_9loc">D'Antonio Warren</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/makalo_kebba_vl76">Kebba Makalo</a> 6:15 p.m. &ndash; Men's 400-Meter Hurdles Preliminary:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/thid_david_57oh">David Thid</a> 6:45 p.m. &ndash; Men's 400-Meter Preliminary:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/lester_da-shawn_ptrw">Da'Shawn Lester</a> 8:30 p.m. &ndash; Women's 10,000 Meters: Jordyn Picolet 9:20 p.m. &ndash; Men's 10,000 Meters:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/kiprotich_titus_hgfs">Titus Kiprotich</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluedragonsports.com/sports/mtrack/2024-25/bios/kogo_cornelius_hf87">Cornelius Kogo</a>.</div>

👟 Blue Dragons open national meet Thursday on home track

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported ten new case of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 56 cases in ten counties.

Last week the state reported cases in eight counties in the southwestern part of the state. Most of the cases are in Gray, Haskell and Stevens counties. The state also confirmed one case in Wichita and another in Hutchinson. 

On Saturday, county health officers issued warnings about sites where people may have been exposed to measles. Anyone who was at the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport from 6:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. May 2 should monitor symptoms until May 23. And anyone at Carnicerias El Guero No. 1 grocery store, 524 W. 21st St N. in Wichita, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 29 should monitor symptoms until May 20.

Anyone at the Hutchinson Public Library, 901 N. Main Street Hutchinson&nbsp;Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. should also monitor symptoms.

The state's first reported case, identified in Stevens County on March 13, is linked to the Texas and New Mexico outbreaks based on genetic testing, a state health department spokesperson said. But health officials have not determined how the person was exposed.

Texas confirmed eight more measles cases over the span of four days, continuing a short streak of shrinking increases in a state that has been dealing with a large outbreak for nearly four months.

The U.S. surpassed 1,000 measles cases Friday, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/sxSwi/?v=7">Texas</a>&nbsp;still accounts for the vast majority of cases in an outbreak that also spread measles to New Mexico, Oklahoma and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3">Kansas.</a>

<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3"></a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">Two unvaccinated elementary school-aged children</a>&nbsp;died from measles-related illnesses in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">the epicenter in West Texas,</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">adult in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;who was not vaccinated died of a measles-related illness.

Other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-kansas-ohio-mmr-vaccination-new-mexico-texas-569474272df9baaad1f6d73462ebe92a">states with active outbreaks</a>&nbsp;— which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Indiana, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

North America has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mexico-canada-ontario-0956a30c043b030ae79bc9f67c6ce89c">two other ongoing outbreaks</a>, all of which are the same measles strain. One outbreak in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/Documents/M/24/measles-ontario-epi-summary.pdf?rev=323859266e21469b8b97a294d6c6f98e&amp;sc_lang=en">1,440 cases</a>&nbsp;from mid-October through May 6, up 197 cases in a week. And the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-measles-vaccines-misinformation-mmr-mennonites-misinformation-ea6158b9a4d513b20f33cbc09034e5c2">Mexican state of Chihuahua</a>&nbsp;had 1,094 measles cases and one death as of Tuesday, according to data from the state health ministry.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-vaccines-autism-measles-obesity-food-dye-f26089856550e978d28fd25b653d8103">preventable through vaccines</a>, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.

As the virus takes hold in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">U.S. communities with low vaccination rates</a>, health experts fear that spread&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">could stretch on for a year</a>. Here’s what else you&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">need to know about measles in the U.S.</a>

How many measles cases are there in Texas?

There are a total of 717 cases across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/sxSwi/?v=7">32 counties, most of them in West Texas</a>, state health officials said Tuesday. The state confirmed only eight more cases since its update Friday.

The state also added one hospitalization to its count, for a total of 93 throughout the outbreak.

<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-2025">State health officials estimated</a>&nbsp;about 1% of cases — fewer than 10 — are actively infectious. Fifty-seven percent of Texas’ cases are in Gaines County, population 22,892, where the virus started spreading in a close-knit, undervaccinated Mennonite community. The county has had 405 cases since late January — just over 1.7% of the county’s residents.

The April 3 death in Texas was an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">8-year-old child,</a>&nbsp;according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-measles-outbreak-rfk-jr-ben-edwards-2dd7c79d47c64ad2e6d4a4ac3c87ec1f">Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;Local health officials said the child did not have underlying health conditions and died of “what the child’s doctor described as measles pulmonary failure.” A unvaccinated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">child with no underlying conditions died of measles in Texas</a>&nbsp;in late February; Kennedy said the child was 6.

How many measles cases are there in New Mexico?

New Mexico remained steady with 71 total cases Tuesday. Seven people have been hospitalized since the outbreak started. Most of the state’s cases are in Lea County. Three are in Eddy County, two in Doña Ana County and Chaves and Curry counties have one each.

An unvaccinated adult died of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">measles-related illness March 6</a>. The person did not seek medical care.

Oklahoma held steady with a total of 14 confirmed and three probable cases as of Tuesday.

The state health department is not releasing which counties have cases, but Cleveland, Oklahoma and Sequoyah counties have had public exposures in the past couple of months.

Indiana has eight cases, all of them in Allen County in the northeast part of the state. The cases have no known link to other outbreaks, the Allen County Department of Health has said.

Michigan has nine confirmed cases of measles, with an outbreak of four connected cases in Montcalm County in the western part of the state that state health officials say is tied to the Ontario outbreak.

Montana added three new measles cases in the last two weeks, bringing the total to eight. The state's outbreak started in mid-April in southwestern Gallatin County — Montana’s first measles cases in 35 years. Health officials didn’t say whether the cases are linked to other outbreaks in North America.

How many cases are there in North Dakota?

North Dakota has 11 cases of measles as of Sunday. The state hadn't seen measles since 2011, health officials said.

State health officials announced two new cases in Cass County on the eastern side of the state. The rest are in Williams County in western North Dakota on the Montana border and are not linked to Cass County.

The state health department says three of the confirmed cases in Williams County are linked to the first case — an unvaccinated child who health officials believe got it from an out-of-state visitor.

The other five cases were people who were not vaccinated and did not have contact with the other cases, causing concern about community transmission. The state health department said four people diagnosed with measles attended classes while infectious at a Williston elementary school, middle school and high school.

Ohio has 34 measles cases and one hospitalization, according to the Ohio Department of Health. That count includes only Ohio residents.

The state has two outbreaks: Ashtabula County near Cleveland has 16 cases, and Knox County in east-central Ohio has 20 — 14 among Ohio residents and the rest among visitors.

Allen, Cuyahoga, Holmes and Defiance counties have one case each.

How many cases are there in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania has 15 cases overall in 2025 as of Friday, including international travel-related cases in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/health/documents/topics/documents/2025%20HAN/2025-787-3-13-ADV-%20Measles.pdf">Montgomery County and one in Philadelphia</a>.

There were eight measles cases in Erie County in far northwest Pennsylvania in late April; the county declared an outbreak in mid-April.

Tennessee had six measles cases as of early May. Health department spokesman Bill Christian said all cases are the middle part of the state, and that “at least three of these cases are linked to each other” but declined to specify further. The state also did not say whether the cases were linked to other outbreaks or when Tennessee’s outbreak started.

Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?

Measles cases also have been reported in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.

Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.

What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747238778889.png" alt="KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health on Wednesday reported ten new case of measles over the past week in the state for a total of 56 cases in ten counties.Last week the state reported cases in eight counties in the southwestern part of the state. Most of the cases are in Gray, Haskell and Stevens counties. The state also confirmed one case in Wichita and another in Hutchinson. On Saturday, county health officers issued warnings about sites where people may have been exposed to measles. Anyone who was at the Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport from 6:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. May 2 should monitor symptoms until May 23. And anyone at Carnicerias El Guero No. 1 grocery store, 524 W. 21st St N. in Wichita, from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 29 should monitor symptoms until May 20.Anyone at the Hutchinson Public Library, 901 N. Main Street Hutchinson&nbsp;Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. should also monitor symptoms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747239085971.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The state's first reported case, identified in Stevens County on March 13, is linked to the Texas and New Mexico outbreaks based on genetic testing, a state health department spokesperson said. But health officials have not determined how the person was exposed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085628490.png" alt="Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.png" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Texas confirmed eight more measles cases over the span of four days, continuing a short streak of shrinking increases in a state that has been dealing with a large outbreak for nearly four months.The U.S. surpassed 1,000 measles cases Friday, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/sxSwi/?v=7">Texas</a>&nbsp;still accounts for the vast majority of cases in an outbreak that also spread measles to New Mexico, Oklahoma and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3">Kansas.</a><a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/aP4Au/?v=3"></a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">Two unvaccinated elementary school-aged children</a>&nbsp;died from measles-related illnesses in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">the epicenter in West Texas,</a>&nbsp;and an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">adult in New Mexico</a>&nbsp;who was not vaccinated died of a measles-related illness.Other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-kansas-ohio-mmr-vaccination-new-mexico-texas-569474272df9baaad1f6d73462ebe92a">states with active outbreaks</a>&nbsp;— which the CDC defines as three or more related cases — include Indiana, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.North America has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-mexico-canada-ontario-0956a30c043b030ae79bc9f67c6ce89c">two other ongoing outbreaks</a>, all of which are the same measles strain. One outbreak in Ontario, Canada, has resulted in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/Documents/M/24/measles-ontario-epi-summary.pdf?rev=323859266e21469b8b97a294d6c6f98e&amp;sc_lang=en">1,440 cases</a>&nbsp;from mid-October through May 6, up 197 cases in a week. And the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-measles-vaccines-misinformation-mmr-mennonites-misinformation-ea6158b9a4d513b20f33cbc09034e5c2">Mexican state of Chihuahua</a>&nbsp;had 1,094 measles cases and one death as of Tuesday, according to data from the state health ministry.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-mmr-outbreak-vaccines-408371700e3ab548777bf0354e586549">Measles</a>&nbsp;is caused by a highly contagious virus that’s airborne and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, sneezes or coughs. It is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rfk-vaccines-autism-measles-obesity-food-dye-f26089856550e978d28fd25b653d8103">preventable through vaccines</a>, and has been considered eliminated from the U.S. since 2000.As the virus takes hold in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-vaccines-funding-cuts-5785985d6b74024b0502f6a2fc1576e2">U.S. communities with low vaccination rates</a>, health experts fear that spread&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-new-mexico-outbreak-mmr-vaccine-6cfda9a944084c390bc70f0e7a37a426">could stretch on for a year</a>. Here’s what else you&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c">need to know about measles in the U.S.</a><h2>How many measles cases are there in Texas?</h2>There are a total of 717 cases across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/sxSwi/?v=7">32 counties, most of them in West Texas</a>, state health officials said Tuesday. The state confirmed only eight more cases since its update Friday.The state also added one hospitalization to its count, for a total of 93 throughout the outbreak.<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-2025">State health officials estimated</a>&nbsp;about 1% of cases — fewer than 10 — are actively infectious. Fifty-seven percent of Texas’ cases are in Gaines County, population 22,892, where the virus started spreading in a close-knit, undervaccinated Mennonite community. The county has had 405 cases since late January — just over 1.7% of the county’s residents.The April 3 death in Texas was an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-texas-rfk-death-vaccine-4e28b0edf5cab47980b40b2d47f0ec50">8-year-old child,</a>&nbsp;according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-measles-outbreak-rfk-jr-ben-edwards-2dd7c79d47c64ad2e6d4a4ac3c87ec1f">Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;Local health officials said the child did not have underlying health conditions and died of “what the child’s doctor described as measles pulmonary failure.” A unvaccinated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-west-texas-death-rfk-41adc66641e4a56ce2b2677480031ab9">child with no underlying conditions died of measles in Texas</a>&nbsp;in late February; Kennedy said the child was 6.<h2>How many measles cases are there in New Mexico?</h2>New Mexico remained steady with 71 total cases Tuesday. Seven people have been hospitalized since the outbreak started. Most of the state’s cases are in Lea County. Three are in Eddy County, two in Doña Ana County and Chaves and Curry counties have one each.An unvaccinated adult died of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/measles-death-new-mexico-texas-outbreak-b9aef6fdd51fbb4ebd1ce9ce28e33299">measles-related illness March 6</a>. The person did not seek medical care.<h2>How many cases are there in Oklahoma?</h2>Oklahoma held steady with a total of 14 confirmed and three probable cases as of Tuesday.The state health department is not releasing which counties have cases, but Cleveland, Oklahoma and Sequoyah counties have had public exposures in the past couple of months.<h2>How many cases are there in Indiana?</h2>Indiana has eight cases, all of them in Allen County in the northeast part of the state. The cases have no known link to other outbreaks, the Allen County Department of Health has said.<h2>How many cases are there in Michigan?</h2>Michigan has nine confirmed cases of measles, with an outbreak of four connected cases in Montcalm County in the western part of the state that state health officials say is tied to the Ontario outbreak.<h2>How many cases are there in Montana?</h2>Montana added three new measles cases in the last two weeks, bringing the total to eight. The state's outbreak started in mid-April in southwestern Gallatin County — Montana’s first measles cases in 35 years. Health officials didn’t say whether the cases are linked to other outbreaks in North America.<h2>How many cases are there in North Dakota?</h2>North Dakota has 11 cases of measles as of Sunday. The state hadn't seen measles since 2011, health officials said.State health officials announced two new cases in Cass County on the eastern side of the state. The rest are in Williams County in western North Dakota on the Montana border and are not linked to Cass County.The state health department says three of the confirmed cases in Williams County are linked to the first case — an unvaccinated child who health officials believe got it from an out-of-state visitor.The other five cases were people who were not vaccinated and did not have contact with the other cases, causing concern about community transmission. The state health department said four people diagnosed with measles attended classes while infectious at a Williston elementary school, middle school and high school.<h2>How many cases are there in Ohio?</h2>Ohio has 34 measles cases and one hospitalization, according to the Ohio Department of Health. That count includes only Ohio residents.The state has two outbreaks: Ashtabula County near Cleveland has 16 cases, and Knox County in east-central Ohio has 20 — 14 among Ohio residents and the rest among visitors.Allen, Cuyahoga, Holmes and Defiance counties have one case each.<h2>How many cases are there in Pennsylvania?</h2>Pennsylvania has 15 cases overall in 2025 as of Friday, including international travel-related cases in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/health/documents/topics/documents/2025%20HAN/2025-787-3-13-ADV-%20Measles.pdf">Montgomery County and one in Philadelphia</a>.There were eight measles cases in Erie County in far northwest Pennsylvania in late April; the county declared an outbreak in mid-April.<h2>How many cases are there in Tennessee?</h2>Tennessee had six measles cases as of early May. Health department spokesman Bill Christian said all cases are the middle part of the state, and that “at least three of these cases are linked to each other” but declined to specify further. The state also did not say whether the cases were linked to other outbreaks or when Tennessee’s outbreak started.<h2>Where else is measles showing up in the U.S.?</h2>Measles cases also have been reported in Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington.Cases and outbreaks in the U.S. are frequently traced to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/europe-asia-measles-rates-unicef-who-report-2f888732cc297090238956986fd89cc4">someone who caught the disease abroad</a>. In 2019, the U.S. saw 1,274 cases and almost lost its status of having eliminated measles.<h2>What do you need to know about the MMR vaccine?</h2>The best way to avoid measles is to get the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html">measles, mumps and rubella</a>&nbsp;vaccine. The first shot is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old and the second between 4 and 6 years old.Getting another MMR shot as an adult is harmless if there are concerns about waning immunity, the CDC says. People who have documentation of receiving a live measles vaccine in the 1960s don’t need to be revaccinated, but people who were immunized before 1968 with an ineffective vaccine made from “killed” virus should be revaccinated with at least one dose, the agency said.People who have documentation that they had measles are immune, and those born before 1957 generally don’t need the shots because so many children got measles back then that they have “presumptive immunity."Measles has a harder time spreading through communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — due to “herd immunity.” But childhood vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the pandemic and more parents are claiming religious or personal conscience waivers to exempt their kids from required shots.<h2>What are the symptoms of measles?</h2>Measles first infects the respiratory tract, then spreads throughout the body, causing a high fever, runny nose, cough, red, watery eyes and a rash.The rash generally appears three to five days after the first symptoms, beginning as flat red spots on the face and then spreading downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may spike over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC.Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/index.html">dangerous complications</a>&nbsp;such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.<h2>How can you treat measles?</h2>There’s no specific treatment for measles, so doctors generally try to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications and keep patients comfortable.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.