Print edition: 
Many western Kansas towns see this weekend's opening of pheasant season as their biggest of the year.
In Oakley, the biggest is next weekend, when the town of about 2,000 hosts the first Governor's Ringneck Classic.
Television crews from several hunting programs, assorted celebrities, paying sponsors and their guests are part of the roughly 65 hunters invited.
"We're really looking forward to it," said Raelene Keller, hunt coordinator. "It's a privilege for our community to host the first one."
Gov. Sam Brownback announced his desire to hold an annual pheasant hunt to showcase Kansas hunting as far back as January. Keller said Oakley was selected in February and will hold the event again in 2012. It will rotate to other western Kansas towns.
She said invited hunters include singer Keith Wright of Ricochet and country singer Chuck Wicks, as well as golfer Tom Watson and baseball hall of famer George Brett. Wright, Wicks and others will perform a concert at Oakley High at about 8:30 p.m. Friday.
Teams of four hunters will be taken afield Saturday by two local guides. Hunting grounds have been reserved for the event in five area counties.
"It's a bit of a competition to see who gets the most birds in the shortest amount of time," Keller said.
Hunters are scheduled to arrive Friday afternoon for clay target shooting. A fund-raising auction and dinner for guests and the public will follow at 5:30 p.m.
Tickets are available by calling 785-672-3031 or at www.kansas ringneckclassic.com.
Keller said several local charities, a scholarship fund and Pheasants Forever will benefit from money raised.
