Reno County officials say no action has been taken to close the Reno County Health Department or reduce its funding, addressing what they described as misinformation circulating on social media.

According to county officials, the Reno County Commission did not vote to eliminate the department or cut its budget during its Feb. 25 meeting. Instead, commissioners removed two health department grant items from the agenda to request additional details before taking action.

The items included approval of the Reno County Health Department’s Kansas Department of Health and Environment Aid-to-Local grant application in the amount of $889,513.80 and approval of the KDHE Outreach, Prevention and Early Intervention Services passthrough grant totaling $350,000.

Commissioners said they asked for a clearer breakdown of the services and programs supported by the grants to ensure informed decision-making. County officials emphasized that the request was informational and not a proposal to eliminate funding.

To allow for further discussion, commissioners scheduled a study session for 4 p.m. Monday, March 2, in the Veterans Room at the Reno County Courthouse, 206 W. First Ave. Study sessions are work sessions designed for commissioners to ask questions and gather information. No formal action will be taken during the session.

Any formal vote regarding the grant applications would occur at the commission’s regularly scheduled meeting at 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 11.

Commission Chair Ron Hirst said the commission’s intent is to make informed decisions.

“The Commission simply asked for an explanation of what services are supported through each grant before approving them,” Hirst said. “There has been no action taken to close the Health Department or cut its funding.”

Residents with questions are encouraged to contact Reno County Administrator Randy Partington at 620-694-2530 or by email at <a>randy.partington@renocountyks.gov</a>.

County officials said Reno County remains committed to transparency and to supporting essential public health services in the community.

County clarifies health department grant discussion 

Bath &amp; Body Works has opened in a new exterior location at Uptown Hutch Mall, marking another step in the transition away from the mall’s interior storefronts.

The national fragrance and personal care retailer relocated from its previous space inside the mall to a new storefront along the mall’s exterior. The move comes as remaining interior tenants prepare to shift locations or close as the interior portion of the mall begins to be remodeled.

Krista Johnson the manager for Bath &amp; Body Works tells us that she hopes that the outside exposure brings a lot more foot traffic.

Johnson said the store will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.&nbsp;

Buckle and Maurices are also relocating to exterior-facing spaces at the mall.

Buckle has announced plans to open its new location March 9. Maurices will close its interior store March 21 and reopen March 28 in a new exterior storefront located between Buckle and Bath &amp; Body Works.

However, one retailer will not be making the move.

Famous Footwear will close as a result of the interior mall shutdown. The store’s final day of sales will be March 21. Store management said they were unable to reach an agreement for a new location at the mall. The closest Famous Footwear location for area shoppers will be in Newton.

Another interior tenant, Selectel Wireless, is relocating outside the mall entirely. The business plans to move downtown to 325 N. Main.

The changes reflect a broader reconfiguration of Uptown Hutch Mall as they transition retailers from traditional indoor mall spaces to exterior storefronts or other locations within the community.

Hutch Post has reached out to mall management for more details but have not heard back.&nbsp;

Bath & Body Works opens at new location at Uptown Hutch Mall

Spring weather may be weeks away in much of the country, but the seasonal rise in gas prices is underway. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline went up by more than 5 cents this past week to $2.98. 

Refineries are beginning the process of producing summer-blend gasoline which contains pricier additives to help reduce evaporation during warmer months. Gas demand is also expected to increase next month as spring break season kicks off and more drivers take road trips.&nbsp;

According to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eia.gov/" target="_blank">new data from the Energy Information Administration</a>&nbsp;(EIA), gasoline&nbsp;demand&nbsp;decreased&nbsp;last&nbsp;week from 8.74 million b/d to 8.73 million.

Total domestic gasoline supply decreased from 255.8 million barrels to 254.8 million. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.2 million barrels per day.&nbsp;

At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI fell 21 cents to settle at $65.42 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories increased by 16 million barrels from the previous week. At 435.8 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.

Seasonal shift leads to rising gas prices

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

Jeff	Allen	Kennedy		2/26/2026 11:36&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Madyson	Rose	Imhof		2/26/2026 6:38&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Tamara	Lorain	Thompson		2/26/2026 7:21&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Stephanie Menjivar Alvarez 2/26/2026 8:51 PM&nbsp;Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conviction

Cory	Dale	Garrison		2/25/2026 8:51 PM&nbsp;Assault of LEO; Properly identified on duty,&nbsp;Viol protection order; Pre-trial order



Daily Bookings

Home sales across the Mid-Kansas region declined in January compared to the same month a year ago, even as median prices continued to climb.

A total of 76 homes were sold in January, down from 91 sales recorded in January 2025. Total sales volume reached $16.4 million, reflecting a decrease from the prior year.

Despite the drop in transactions, home prices moved higher. The median sale price in January was $173,500, up from $159,900 a year earlier. Homes that sold during the month were typically on the market for 24 days and received 97.9% of their original list price.

Inventory levels at the end of January showed modest growth. There were 253 active listings in the Mid-Kansas region, up slightly from 251 listings at the same point in 2025. The available inventory represents a 2.1-month supply of homes for sale. The median list price of homes on the market at the end of January was $189,900.

Market activity remained steady in terms of new contracts. A total of 88 contracts were written in January, up from 86 during the same month last year. At the close of the month, 112 contracts were pending.

Home sales decline in January

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day outlook

Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank said annual change-of-value notices will be mailed Friday, with delivery expected midweek.

“The mail date is tomorrow, so they’ll go into the mail tomorrow,” Plank said during an interview Thursday morning on the BW Morning Show. “Folks probably won’t see them until Tuesday or Wednesday next week.”

The notices are required by state law and inform property owners of their property’s appraised value for the upcoming tax year.

Plank said one of the most common questions involves the two values listed on the notice: appraised value and assessed value.

“There should be the appraised value, and also what’s called the assessed value,” Plank said. “For residential property, your assessed value is just 11.5% of your appraised value. If you take your appraised value and multiply it by 11.5%, it should equal that assessed value on the notice.”

The assessed value is set by statute and used to calculate property taxes.

However, Plank emphasized that the notice does not show what a property owner’s tax bill will be.

“It’s not just the county commission,” he said. “It’s whatever entities have taxing authority over you — the school district, the city, fire district. They set their budgets over the summer, and that eventually determines your mill levy and your resulting property tax.”

Kansas is an annual market-value state, meaning all property — except agricultural land valued by a state formula — is reappraised each year at fair market value as of Jan. 1.

“The way state law is written, it’s what could it sell for as of January 1,” Plank said. “Could I sell my property at or above this amount this year? If the answer is no, then take advantage of the appeal process.”

The Reno County Appraiser’s Office reviews three years of sales data when determining residential values.

“We look at the last three years of sales, and we’re limited by the available sales,” Plank said. “If it hasn’t sold in that timeframe, it’s not a comparable.”

Typically, five comparable properties are used to help determine a value. Ideally, those homes are in the same general area and similar in size, age and features, though that is not always possible.

“If there’s a comp on there that you really don’t like, we have the ability to change that out and test other comps,” Plank said. “We don’t have a problem researching that and trying to find something that might be better.”

Even if a homeowner has made no changes to their property, values can still increase due to broader market trends.

“The market around you is constantly changing,” Plank said. “Since 2008 or 2009, statewide, all we’ve seen in real estate is an upward trend.”

Reno County change-of-value notices headed to your mailbox

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 northwest corner of West 5th and North Main.

The Zion Evangelical English Lutheran Church in Hutchinson was formed in 1888. They first built a church alongside Cow Creek on the southeast corner of 1st and Jefferson in 1890 for $3,253.

Because of flooding issues, they moved it to 501 N. Main in 1895, at the cost of $2,600. The first photo shows that church in 1907.

The second photo shows that same church in 1917 in the background of a World War I parade with our troops going off to war.

In 1921, the church built a new brick building in another location and the wooden church was razed.

In 1922, the Stamey Construction Company built the Hotel Stamey on this open lot. The third photo shows the footings being poured for the hotel, looking in a southeast direction.

The fourth photo shows the hotel construction nearing its completion in 1923.

The fifth photo shows it on opening day, Aug. 22, 1923, with its massive signage on the roof working.

The Hotel Stamey was a viable hotel until 1958, when it was sold and rebranded as the Landmark Hotel.

By 1960, it had been converted to apartments.

Terry Messing purchased it in 1977 and it went downhill from there. The building was abandoned in 2014 and sat as a dangerous eyesore until 2024 when Michael and Laura Meyer Dick purchased the building to renovate it.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/ed003121-1d1e-43c1-a0cb-0b68ef97d24f">Plans are to rehab the building into 36 modern apartments and open in the summer of 2026.</a> The sixth photo shows the building at 501 N. Main today being renovated by MBC Const. The property is owned by Meyer Landmark L.L.C.

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> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/anchorinnhutch">Anchor Inn</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Anchorawayhutch/">Anchor Away</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: 501 N. Main - Vol. 163

Reno County commissioners heard details about an upcoming public forum on data center development, tabled two health department grant items for further review and rejected a job incentive request tied to a local manufacturer’s planned expansion.

Data center forum scheduled March 11

An informational session on trends in data center development is set for 11 a.m. March 11 at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the campus of Hutchinson Community College.

The forum will immediately follow the next commission meeting and is intended to address growing public discussion around potential data center projects in Kansas. Organizers said the event will feature industry and state officials to provide information on power use, water consumption, economic impacts and regulatory safeguards.

Scheduled speakers include Jason Clint, senior director of external affairs for Evergy, who will address power supply and consumer rate protections, and Paul Hughes, director for headquarters and mega projects development with the Kansas Department of Commerce, who will discuss statewide recruitment efforts.

Local industry representatives involved in data center supply chains — including firms that manufacture racking systems and water cooling components — are also expected to participate. Developers exploring projects ranging from 15 megawatts to more than 100 megawatts have been invited as well.

Organizers said the session is designed to provide factual information and allow for public questions before potential regulatory decisions are considered.

During public comment, Darren Gehring, a former Hutchinson firefighter, urged commissioners to consider expanding a proposed three-year moratorium on data centers to include battery energy storage systems. Gehring cited fire safety concerns related to a proposed site along North Buhler Road and asked the commission to “pump the brakes” until more information is available.

Commission Chair Ron Hirst encouraged residents to attend the March 11 session, regardless of their position on the issue.

Health grant items moved to study session

Commissioners voted 4-1 to table items 7C and 7D on the agenda — two Reno County Health Department grant matters — and schedule a special study session at 4 p.m. March 2.

The study session will allow commissioners to review financial and statistical data, including operating costs and services provided under the grants. A decision on the grants must be made by the March 11 meeting to meet a March 13 submission deadline.

Superior Boiler incentive request denied

Commissioners also considered a request for job performance incentives from Superior Boiler following its November 2025 acquisition by Watts Water Technologies.

Lauren Storm of Greater Hutch said the company plans to add up to 100 jobs — 20 administrative and 80 production positions — all paying at least $21 per hour. The request sought reimbursement of $1,500 per job retained for four consecutive quarters, potentially totaling up to $150,000 over a three-year period under the county’s economic development policy.

The motion to approve a letter of intent authorizing negotiations failed on a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Ron Vincent, Randy Parks and Don Bogner voting no, and Hirst and Richard Winger voting yes.

County Administrator Randy Partington said the policy has previously been used by companies including Superior Boiler, Kansas Protein Foods and Wifco Steel Products. Commissioners indicated they may revisit the job incentive policy in a future study session

108th Avenue bridge to be permanently closed

In other business, commissioners voted unanimously to permanently close and remove the 108th Avenue Bridge over Peace Creek, located between Sterling Road and Peace Road on the Reno-Rice county line.

The four-span timber bridge, approximately 74 feet long, was recently rated below a three-ton limit following inspection and deemed unsafe to remain open.

Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain said replacing the bridge would cost an estimated $548,968, with 26% — about $143,610 — billed to Rice County under state cost-sharing formulas. The bridge averages about 20 vehicles per day and does not landlock any properties, Brittain said.

Commissioners determined replacement was not financially justified given the low traffic volume and competing infrastructure priorities. Reno County will remove the structure and bill Rice County for its share of removal costs.

Reno County Commission rejects job incentive, closes bridge

Three-day Outlook

MARION COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram driven by Michael T. Walsh, 75, Lost Springs, was westbound on 340th just east of Sunflower Road approximately 3 miles west of Lost Springs.

The driver fell asleep. The pickup traveled eastbound in the westbound lane. A westbound USD 387 school bus driven by James L. Beeson, 79, Paola, with seven students on board stopped. The pickup struck the school bus head-on.

EMS transported Walsh to St. Luke Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Beeson was not injured. One student possibly had an injury but was not transported to the hospital, according to the KHP.

Kan. man hospitalized after head-on crash with a school bus

Former President&nbsp;Bill Clinton&nbsp;is testifying Friday before members of Congress who are investigating convicted sex offender&nbsp;Jeffrey Epstein. Below is his opening statement.

Watch below, the first minutes of President Bill Clinton testifying under oath, via videotape, before a Federal Grand Jury about his relationship with former White House Intern Monica Lewinsky - before the Independent Counsel, held at White House, beginning at 1:03 pm., Monday, August 17, 1998.

🎥 Former President Bill Clinton's opening statement to House Oversight Committee

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged armed carjacking in Manhattan and have made arrests.

Just after 1:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of robbery near Beck Street and Casement Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 28-year-old man reported a known 67-year-old male suspect stole his 2013 Dodge Ram truck at gunpoint. The truck was later recovered. Michael Ivy, 67, of Wamego, was arrested at 7:41 p.m. in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road for aggravated robbery.&nbsp; Ivy is being held on a $125,000 bond&nbsp;

&nbsp;Two other arrests were made as a result of the initial report, including Otto Tisdale, 40, of St. George, who was arrested at 5:29 p.m. in the 300 block of Allen Road. He is being held in the Riley County Jail on requested charges of violating the offender registration act, possession of opiate/opium/narcotic or certain stimulant, and for the use/possession of with intent to use drug paraphernalia in the human body.&nbsp;

Bailey Collier, 23, of Louisville (Kan.), was arrested at 1:46 p.m. in the 300 block of Allen Road for parole violation. Collier is being held without bond, according to the RCPD.&nbsp;&nbsp;

67-year-old Kansas man accused of armed carjacking 

WASHINGTON (AP) —Joe Biden’s appearance in a boarding area awaiting a flight to South Carolina drew a crowd Friday morning at the the airport near downtown Washington.

The former president is spending Friday evening with Democrats in South Carolina who have organized a thank you event to commemorate his thunderous victory in the state’s 2020 Democratic presidential primary.

Other passengers were primarily deterred by the dozen Secret Service agents who surrounded Biden as he sat at the gate. But Biden took selfies with American Airlines employees, and dozens of passengers in the area filmed him on their cellphones.

Once on board awaiting takeoff, passengers passed by to shake Biden’s hand. “God bless you, sir,” one woman said.

Former President draws attention at airport en route to South Carolina

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 — The Kansas Senate passed a resolution Wednesday to cap property valuation increases at 3%, the first step toward achieving a constitutional change that would need to be approved by voters.&nbsp;

An amendment to the constitution must be approved by a majority of voters after passing both legislative chambers by a two-thirds majority.&nbsp;

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1616/" target="_blank">Senate Concurrent Resolution 1616</a>, which passed the Senate 30-10, stops assessed values of real property from increasing more than 3% per year except in certain situations, such as new construction or if improvements occurred on the property.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If approved by voters, the cap would go into effect Jan. 1, 2027. Values of current homes would be set at 3% above 2022 valuations.&nbsp;

Opponents to the resolution argued that addressing one factor — in this case, the assessed valuation —- may or may not lower a homeowner’s property taxes. They expressed concern the issue may confuse taxpayers, who may vote in favor of the resolution and expect to see their property taxes decrease.&nbsp;

Sen. Pat Pettey, a Democrat who was a former commissioner in Kansas City, Kansas, said the resolution wouldn’t lower property taxes.&nbsp;

“Only mill levies can do that,” she said.

Mill levies are the assessment of $1 of tax per $1,000 of the property valuation. Local governments set mill levies based on their total valuations and the dollars needed to fund their budgets.&nbsp;

Local governments wishing to continue to provide their current level of services will immediately consider raising the mill levies, which determine property tax, Pettey said.&nbsp;

She said numerous opponents testified against the bill in committee, including the city of Mission, the city of Overland Park, the Kansas Realtors Association, the Kansas Livestock Association, the Kansas Building Industry Association and the Kansas Farm Bureau.

“So a vast, diverse group of organizations came out in opposition because they believe, and I do, that this does not reduce or limit property tax increases and could more than likely result in a shift of property tax burden across taxpayers,” Pettey said.&nbsp;

Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat who is running for governor, said her concern with the resolution is that property taxes are the primary funding for local governments.

“Essentially, we have to take into consideration that services for local police departments, local roads, those costs aren’t going to decrease or disappear,” Holscher said. “The funds have to come from somewhere else.”

Holscher also raised concerns that capping property valuations would, over time, cause automobile taxes to rise because local governments would need to replace funding.&nbsp;

“Sixty-four percent of adults typically own homes. In Kansas, 74% own vehicles,” she said. “We’re effectively switching and removing the tax burden from property owners to car owners, some of whom don’t own property. We’re squeezing the balloons, so to speak, because again, the money has to come from somewhere to pay for these services.”

Proponents of the resolution said Kansas must provide property tax relief, especially for older Kansans on fixed incomes who see their property taxes jump higher every year.&nbsp;

“Property taxes are not just numbers on a statement,” said Sen. Craig Bowser, R-Holton. “They’re grocery money. They’re car payments. They’re retirement savings, and they’re the difference between potentially staying in your home or being forced to sell.”

He said Kansans have seen their property valuations “rise sharply,” financially straining people on fixed incomes, young families and farmers and ranchers.&nbsp;

“It does not eliminate property taxes. It does not strip local governments of funding,” Bowser said. “What it does is provide stability, predictability and protection against sudden spikes in tax bills. This is about fairness. When market values surge 10, 15, even 20% in a single year, taxpayers are hit with increases they cannot control.”

SCR 1616 will move to the House for consideration. If it passes there, it would be placed on a special election ballot on Aug. 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In local governments, each entity, such as police and fire departments and the county commissioners, create a budget. Officials take the total assessed value of the jurisdiction — the total assessment of all property values — and determine what the mill levy needs to be to raise the dollars to meet the budget.&nbsp;

A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. For example, if a house has assessed value of $150,000, the homeowner would pay $15 in property tax per mill levied by the county. In the city of Shawee, for instance,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cityofshawnee.org/departments/finance/tax_structure" target="_blank">the mill levy&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;includes funding needs for several taxing authorities, such as school districts and the local library.&nbsp;

Excluding school districts, which vary based on the resident’s location, the mill levy was 56.998. On the $150,000 assessed value, the homeowner would pay $854.97 annually in property taxes. (Remember, this doesn’t include mill levies for schools, which ranged from 51 mills to 63 mills.)

Capping property valuations only makes a difference if mill levies don’t change.&nbsp;

If the local government doesn’t have other revenue options — such as sales tax or bed tax income —&nbsp; they may decide to increase the mill levy to meet budget demands. States with significant tourism, for instance, often have lower property tax values because they can rely on other revenue streams.&nbsp;

Kansas Senate approves cap on property valuations, despite questions on real tax savings

On February 27, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of U.S. government personnel from Mission Israel due to safety risks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available.

Country Summary:&nbsp;Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%25252FIsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FAh2FYzHTLzqz7nPsda0poqOfEdN6BpRzR5XGiLnZW3c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170603338%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3Dyx1o17QzmpCQFyVTI%252FRkC2M6JBm7WumzEwrlhONt4NA%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">country information page&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for additional information on travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Visit the CDC page for the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%25252Ftravel%25252Fdestinations%25252Ftraveler%25252Fnone%25252Fisrael%25253Fs_cid%253Dncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FZkzxZMKzbhGrklHD4F4l6vPBvgKxOnBxzqtS8v-moDQ%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170615806%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DVCXcsKAmRUhojPQaQuN8wkY3Bnn4mor3Saxy93WPsBw%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel Health Information&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

Israel – Reconsider Travel (see below for additional information regarding areas near the Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Reconsider travel due to&nbsp;terrorism, and civil unrest.

The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions and missiles, can take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

Any official travel of U.S. government personnel within these areas requires approval from the Embassy’s security office.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Northern Israel (within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders) – Do Not Travel

The Israeli authorities restrict travel to areas close to the border given the Israeli Defense Forces continued presence and activity. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel are currently restricted from personal travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders. Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization to travel close to these borders.

The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens not travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.

Reconsider Travel due to&nbsp;terrorism&nbsp;and&nbsp;civil unrest.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization travel to the West Bank. U.S. government employees are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:

Over the past several months, there has been an increase in violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks. Some incidents have resulted in injury or death of U.S. citizens. During periods of unrest, the Israeli government may restrict access to and within the West Bank, and some areas may be placed under curfew.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees working in Israel with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Fpassports%25252Fen%25252Fgo%25252FTraveltoHighRiskAreas.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FCJHwoe5ddft4nmJGklMrV7rtjlDoAxA1Nr6j7tqZdY0%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170729285%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DGcFf1gW3HyE8LzG%252Bdv%252BDGh1GDvnVnavM0Y0jEzuciz4%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel to High Risk Areas&nbsp;</a>.

Do not travel for any reason due to&nbsp;terrorism&nbsp;and&nbsp;armed conflict.

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel (Erez Crossing) was damaged on October 7, 2023, and remains closed. The pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza (Rafah Crossing) has been closed since May 7, 2024, and remains closed to the general public.

If a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) desires our assistance and has not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:JerusalemACS@state.gov">JerusalemACS@state.gov</a>.

Visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Fpassports%25252Fen%25252Fgo%25252FTraveltoHighRiskAreas.html%252F2%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FKoAb07NTRIkz6QptK3rtrEY0e-fcZBXRW82fROpDKOw%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170743530%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DMtGfsOYHxbSdxpMkAsLg9JcAkw418SqIsYbeN5XLYeg%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel to High Risk Areas&nbsp;</a>.

Please be sure to visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252Fbefore-you-go%25252Fcrisis_and_disaster_abroad_be_ready.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FmRStECkANzALK9cVshh6K4v_9vZHcVXDimtLlArNw_c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170756531%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DAajaGEH0mjZt2ZoSlRppHpZo%252BKlGDLUjmDpbYQ%252FbutQ%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Crisis and Disaster Abroad&nbsp;</a>: Be Ready&nbsp;for information that may be helpful.

U.S. updates travel advisory to Israel amid Iran strike fears

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A 21-year-old man is in stable condition after being shot Wednesday evening in north Wichita.

Just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday, police learned that a 21-year-old man had arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his upper body. He is currently listed in stable condition.

Preliminary investigation indicates the incident began as a meeting arranged through social media for the sale of items. When the two parties met, the victim was reportedly robbed by two suspects, who then fled the scene. The victim followed the suspects in his vehicle.

In the 4100 block of North Tyler, the suspects fired at the victim’s vehicle, striking both the vehicle and the victim.

The victim then drove himself to a local hospital for treatment.

The suspect vehicle was later located, and a juvenile male was taken into custody in connection with the case.

Police: Kan. teen shot man during social media arranged sale

CLARK COUNTY —After fighting a large wild fire last week, crews in southwest Kansas were busy with another grass fire Thursday.

Ashland Kansas fire crews reported on their social media page they&nbsp;just got home from a grass fire that started along U.S. 160 three miles west of Ashland. 

They thanked crews from Minneola, Englewood, Fowler and Ford county for their help. There were no injuries reported.

"Please make sure chains and other things that can spark a fire are properly secured on all vehicles. We are all home safe and sound."

Crews fight another wildfire in southwest Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Secretary of State&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/hillary-clinton">Hillary Clinton</a>&nbsp;told members of Congress on Thursday that she had no knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein’s or Ghislaine Maxwell’s crimes, starting off two days of depositions that will also include former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bill-clinton">Bill Clinton</a>.

“I had no idea about their criminal activities. I do not recall ever encountering Mr. Epstein,” Hillary Clinton said in an opening statement she shared on social media. The closed-door deposition concluded Thursday after over six hours of Hillary Clinton giving an answer to every question.

The depositions in the Clintons' hometown of Chappaqua, a typically quiet hamlet north of New York City, come after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-bill-clinton-hillary-clinton-fb3b8d7caafda88ddfa670148ceb2a89">months of tense back-and-forth</a>&nbsp;between the former high-powered Democratic couple and the Republican-controlled House Oversight Committee as it investigates Epstein, who killed himself in a New York jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial. It will be the first time that a former president has been forced to testify before Congress.

Yet the demand for a reckoning over Epstein's abuse of underage girls has become a near-unstoppable force on Capitol Hill and beyond.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>, a Republican who has expressed regret that the Clintons are being forced to testify, bowed last year to pressure to release case files on Epstein. The Clintons, too,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-clinton-jeffrey-epstein-contempt-716148204e58a42153c5ab20a97c3011">agreed to testify</a>&nbsp;after their offers of sworn statements were rebuffed by the Oversight panel and its chairman, Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., threatened&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-clinton-hillary-clinton-contempt-congress-epstein-6132b63aeb1deb4513e9fa6807ae223c">criminal contempt of Congress charges</a>&nbsp;against them.

“Like every decent person," Hillary Clinton added in her opening statement, “I have been horrified by what we have learned about their crimes.”

She has previously said that her husband flew with Epstein for charitable trips but that she did not recall ever meeting Epstein. She had also interacted with Maxwell, Epstein’s former girlfriend and confidant, at conferences hosted by the Clinton Foundation.

Maxwell,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/what-to-know-about-ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epsteins-former-girlfriend-20b6d4a197364bb6b8d0f8390d2ce5a4">a British socialite</a>, also attended the 2010 wedding of their daughter, Chelsea Clinton.

As she exited the event center where the deposition was held, Hillary Clinton told reporters that Maxwell had come to the wedding as a guest of someone else and that she had told the committee she only knew Maxwell “as an acquaintance.”

Republicans relish chance to question Clintons

Bill Clinton, however, has emerged as a top target for Republicans amid the political struggle over who receives the most scrutiny for their ties to Epstein.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bill-clinton-justice-department-jeffrey-epstein-4a55e83b62b5a037c431e36cfa87f0dc">Several photos</a>&nbsp;of the former president were included in the first tranche of Epstein files released by the Department of Justice in January, including a number of him with women whose faces were redacted. Clinton has not been accused of wrongdoing in his relationship with Epstein.

Comer has also pointed to Hillary Clinton's work as secretary of state to address sex trafficking as another reason to insist on her deposition. Clinton defended her work to address sex trafficking around the world, saying that it remained important to help the millions of survivors of sex trafficking.

The committee's investigation has also sought to understand why the Department of Justice under previous presidential administrations did not seek further charges against Epstein following a 2008 arrangement in which he pleaded guilty to state charges in Florida for soliciting prostitution from an underage girl but avoided federal charges.

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