RENO COUNTY – A Kansas  man was injured in an accident just after 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday in Reno County.

The Reno County Sheriff’s Department reported that police attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Marc Chambers, 44, Hutchinson. He fled the scene in the stolen vehicle.

Officers found him after the vehicle struck a tree in the 4000 Block of East Avenue G. Chambers was unable to exit the vehicle.

The Hutchinson Fire Department extricated Chambers from the vehicle and he was transported to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

Chambers was not wearing his seatbelt and there was no airbag deployment.
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The accident remains under investigation.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The family of former Kansas City Chiefs safety Caesar Belser will donate his brain to research into a degenerative brain condition.

Belser’s children said he died over the weekend of lung cancer. He played for the Chiefs from 1968 to 1971, including on the 1969 Super Bowl champions.

His son, Jason Belser, and his daughter, Cecilia Belser-Patton, say the family will donate Belser’s brain to the University of Texas Southwestern and Dr. Bennet Omalu, a key figure in researching chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

The Kansas City Star reports Belser’s children say he suffered from several neurological issues late in life.

Jason Belser, who played in the NFL for 11 years, has already decided to donate his brain when he dies.

HUTCHINSON—Law enforcement and school officials in Reno County are investigating a threat that was made at Hutchinson High School on Tuesday.

Several students came forward to express concerns about a threat to students, according to USD 308 Spokesperson Ray Hemman

The school Resource Officer was notified and then contacted Hutchinson Police.

Several students were removed from the building.

 

According to Capt. Troy Hoover of HPD two students,  14-year-old Ayrton Marroquin and 15-year-old Carson Cabral,  have been taken into custody and are expected to be charged with conspiracy to commit capital murder. Police report they recovered plans for making pipe bombs from the two students as well as sketches and plans of where certain teachers and staff would be so they could be targeted. Search warrants were issued at two residences were items that could be used to build explosive devices were confiscated by law enforcement according to a news release from HPD

USD 308 notified parents with in the school district with the following email message.

“Students came forward this morning to express a concern about a possible threat to Hutchinson High School. This report was relayed to the Hutchinson Police Department. The investigation revealed sufficient information to remove several students from school. Both HPD and HHS administration believe the concern has been addressed, and there is no threat to students or staff. HPD continues the investigation.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Three Republicans in the Kansas Senate have introduced a proposal to reverse an income tax cut for business owners championed by GOP Gov. Sam Brownback.

Senate Vice President Jeff King of Independence and Sens. Jim Denning and Greg Smith of Overland Park described the measure they unveiled Tuesday as a proposal to promote tax fairness.

Their bill would undo a 2012 policy that exempts more than 330,000 farmers and business owners from state income taxes. It would tax 70 percent of their income.

The state has struggled since to balance its budget, and the three senators said it will continue to do so as long as the full tax break remains in effect.

But Brownback spokeswoman Eileen Hawley said the governor will not support a tax increase on small businesses.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A man has been sentenced to 57 years and four months in prison for fatally shooting a woman and wounding a man in Kansas City, Kansas.

The Kansas City Star reported Monday that 31-year-old Scottie E. Lindsay was found guilty in January of intentional second-degree murder, attempted intentional second-degree murder and criminal possession of a firearm.

Prosecutors say Lindsay fatally shot 37-year-old Melinda Bates Fuller multiple times during an argument on March 19, 2015, at the home of Julius Lamont Boyd. Boyd was wounded in the shooting.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A House committee’s leader has outlined a new proposal for giving the state more oversight of local public school construction projects.

Education Committee Chairman Ron Highland said Tuesday that his panel will vote on his proposal Friday. It would have a joint legislative committee review projects before voters in local school districts decide whether to authorize bonds for them.

The state helps poorer school districts pay off such debt, and costs have climbed, frustrating Republicans who control the Legislature.

The committee started with a bill that would create a new state board to review school construction projects. But Highland said some lawmakers questioned the idea and noted that the work could be done by an existing legislative committee.

Critics see such measures as an attack on local control of schools.

HUTCHINSON– It’s time to start planning your trip to the Kansas State Fair to catch the exciting lineup of entertainment.

Lynryd Skynyrd, Jake Owen with special guest Old Dominion and the Hit Makers Reunion including Restless Heart, Voice of Lonestar Richie McDonald, Suzy Bogguss and Billy Dean are the first acts secured for the 2016 Kansas State Fair. This year’s fair runs Sept. 9-18 in Hutchinson.

Grandstand tickets go on sale May 6 at 8 a.m. and can be purchased at the Kansas State Fair Ticket Office by calling 1-800-362-3247 or at www.kansasstatefair.tix.com.

Unless otherwise noted, Grandstand tickets include gate admission when purchased through Aug. 20, 2016.

Fair Fan Club

Want to buy your tickets before everyone else? Those who join the Fair Fan Club have the opportunity to purchase up to two tickets to each concert prior to the public on-sale date. In addition, Fan Club members receive advance notification of upcoming concert announcements. Memberships are on sale now. Dues are $100 per fair and can be purchased online; by phone at 1-800-362-3247 or 620-669-3600; or at the Administration Building on the Fairgrounds. Fair Fan Club members can purchase concert tickets first, starting at 8 a.m. on April 22. For more information on joining the club, visit bit.ly/FAIRFANCLUB.

Lynyrd Skynyrd – Friday, Sept. 16, 7:30 p.m. – Tickets $90/$65/$50*

The legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd began in Jacksonville, Fla. over 41 years ago. The group rocks on with original member Gary Rossington joined by Johnny Van Zant, Rickey Medlock, Mark “Sparky” Matejka, Michael Cartellone, Johnny Colt, Peter Keys, Dale Krantz Rossington and Carol Chase.

The rock and roll powerhouse continually tours and lives out the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd. 2014 marked the eighth year for their annual Simple Man Cruise, a four day voyage filled with the best music in Southern Rock including an outdoor beach show featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd for the first time in the cruise’s history.

With over 60 albums, sales beyond 30 million worldwide and their beloved classic American rock anthem “Sweet Home Alabama” having over two million downloaded ringtones, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers in Lynyrd Skynyrd remain a cultural icon that appeals to all generations.

For more information on Lynyrd Skynyrd, please visit www.lynyrdskynyrd.com.

Jake Owen with Special Guest Old Dominion – Saturday, Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m. – Tickets $75/$45/$35*

From fans to music critics, everyone is eagerly embracing Jake Owen’s talented, fresh sound. With five No. 1 hits ­– two-time platinum anthem “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” Platinum-certified hits “Beachin’,” “Anywhere with You,” “Alone with You” and “The One That Got Away,” Jake Owen is both well received and well known in the country music industry. Known for his thrilling performances and laid-back style of country, Owen showcased a much different side on his acclaimed single “What We Ain’t Got.”

His latest album Days of Gold (RCA Nashville), produced by Joey Moi, is the follow up to the Gold-certified, chart-topping Barefoot Blue Jean Night, which has sold over five million copies. Additionally, Owen has earned ACA and ACM Awards, Grammy and Teen Choice Awards nominations.

Now, Owen is bringing his signature show to Kenny Chesney’s The Big Revival Tour. He is currently in the studio with award-winning producers Shane McAnally and Ross Copperman working on his next album and recently released the playful, boundary-pushing lead single “Real Life.”

To learn more about Jake Owen, please go to www.jakeowen.net.

Old Dominion

Old Dominion has emerged as one of the hottest breaking bands in country music blending old-fashioned country charm, lyrical wit and rock n’ roll grit. The group consists of singer Matthew Ramsey, lead guitarist Brad Tursi, multi-instrumentalist Trevor Rosen, bassist Geoff Sprung and drummer Whit Sellers. They have spent seven years honing their craft, each making a name for themselves in Nashville by penning songs for the likes of Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney and more.

Nominated for two Academy of Country Music awards for Vocal Group of the Year and New Vocal Group or Duo of the Year, they recently celebrated their debut single “Break Up With” reaching the top of the charts for two weeks. It doesn’t stop there. Entertainment Weekly called “Meat and Candy,” Old Dominion’s first released full-length album a “deceptively smart, occasionally cheeky, stellar debut.”

Old Dominion is currently headlining the Meat and Candy Tour and watching their second hit, “Snapback” gain traction and climb up the charts. More recently, they made their national television debuts on Jimmy Kimmel Live and the Today Show. In April, Old Dominion will rejoin Kenny Chesney for the second year in a row on his 2016 tour.

For more information on Old Dominion, please visit www.olddominionband.com.

Hit Makers Reunion – Tuesday, Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. – Tickets $34*

Restless Heart

John Dittrich, Greg Jennings, Paul Gregg, Dave Innis, and Larry Stewart make up Restless Heart. These men have enjoyed one of the most successful careers in country music history: placing over 25 singles on the charts – with six consecutive No. 1 hits, four albums certified Gold by the RIAA and they have won a wide range of awards from many organizations including the Academy of Country Music’s Top Vocal Group trophy.

Their record-shattering string of hits, such as “I’ll Still Be Loving You,” “Fast Movin’ Train” and “When She Cries” have audiences everywhere singing along. And, their story is far from over, Restless Heart still has a lot of history left to make.

Richie McDonald

Recognized as one of country’s best singers and a polished and engaging entertainer, McDonald is the face and voice of Lonestar, ranked among the genre’s preeminent groups. As one of the industry’s most successful songwriters, he has penned some of the era’s most memorable songs and earned a mantle full of awards and nominations.

Suzy Bogguss

Suzy Bogguss first joined the church choir at five years old, then added piano, drums and guitar to her repertoire. Soon she was singing in musicals, though it never occurred to her that her future was on stage. But the long list of industry awards including her Grammy – prove that on stage is exactly where she belongs.

Billy Dean

From Billy Dean’s insightful songwriting to his clear and distinctive voice and masterful instrumental gifts, he’s earned not only ACM awards, CMA awards and a Grammy, but also countless devoted fans along the way. His appeal reaches beyond the music world. He has appeared on numerous TV shows as well as made-for TV movies. Billy transcends genres and generations alike – he is loved by the entire family.

* Concert tickets, unless otherwise denoted, include general gate admission when purchased through Aug. 20.

PITTSBURG, Kan. (AP) — One of the men charged in the robbery and slaying of a Pittsburg State University student has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder.

The Pittsburg Morning Sun reports that 21-year-old Corbin Joseph Spragg, of Pittsburg, also admitted to aggravated kidnaping. As part of the agreement, charges of first degree murder, attempted aggravated robbery and attempted aggravated burglary were dropped.

Prosecutors say 20-year-old engineering student Taylor Thomas was killed in 2014 when Spragg and three other men attempted to steal marijuana from Thomas’ roommate. A fifth man who’s accused of aiding the other four after the killing also faces charges.

Spragg has agreed to testify against the other defendants and won’t be formally sentenced until the other cases end. As part of the plea agreement, he faces 27-and-a-half years in prison.

FINNEY COUNTY- Law enforcement authorities in Finney County are investigating an aggravated burglary.

Just before 8 a.m. on Tuesday, officers of the Garden City Police Department were dispatched to the 700 block of Sarah Street for a reported burglary in progress, according to a media release.

The victim advised 911 dispatchers that the suspect fled the residence on foot toward Victor Ornelas Elementary School and that the he may possibly be armed with a handgun.

Officers of the Garden City Police Department, Finney County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to the area and established a perimeter while Police K- 9’s were used to track the suspect. Victor Ornelas Elementary School and the Charles O. Stones Intermediate Center were notified and initiated a lockdown.

As Officers were checking the area they were notified of a subject hiding in the basement of a home under construction in the 400 Block of Susan Street.

Officers responded to the scene, and Alfonso Morales, 27, Garden City was arrested without incident.

Morales is being held in the Finney County Jail and could face the following charges:
Aggravated Burglary x2, Attempted Theft, Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.
Morales was also held on warrants through the Finney County District Court for:
Probation Violation-Indecent Liberties with a child
Probation Violation-Aggravated Battery
Possession of Drug/Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute

Further investigation revealed that this Morales was the focus of a search on March 7, in the area of 5700 Old Post Rd and 700 Amy St. where he had fled from deputies and officers for Felony warrants.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas Senate committee has voted to permanently divert federal family planning funding from abortion providers like Planned Parenthood.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday approved a bill that would make permanent a 2011 provision that distributes funding for Title X, a federally financed family planning program. The provision gives funding priority to public health departments and clinics ahead of private family planning clinics.

Sen. Marci Francisco, a Democrat from Lawrence who opposed the measure, suggested a change that would expand access to long-lasting reversible contraception, but the committee voted against the proposal.

Planned Parenthood challenged the provision in federal court and ultimately lost in the 10th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in Denver in 2014.