 National Modular MFG LLC has signed a long-term lease to double the size of its Kansas operations, expanding into a 57,600-square-foot facility at the Kansas Enterprise Industrial Park in Hutchinson.

The company, which operates in Haven, Kansas, and Providence, North Carolina, manufactures modular units for national brands including 7 Brew Coffee. Company officials said the additional space will significantly increase manufacturing capacity and support continued growth.

National Modular said its facilities combine the strength and quality of traditional site-built construction with the added benefits of transportability and efficiency. The company completed 138 drive-thru buildings last year and expects the expansion to allow it to complete at least 200 units this year.

The manufacturer distinguishes itself by using welded steel frames exclusively, engineering its structures to meet snow, wind and seismic requirements across the United States and Canada. In addition to constructing the buildings, National Modular also designs and delivers full drive-thru canopy systems — a component often supplied separately in modular or site-built projects.

Company representatives said leasing the spec building in Hutchinson allowed for immediate expansion. They credited city and county leaders for supporting the company’s rapid growth since it established operations in Haven more than five years ago.

Brad Pryor of Salt City Investments said the spec building was designed to accommodate growing companies seeking ready-to-occupy industrial space.

“This is exactly the type of project we are proud to support,” Pryor said, adding that the development model is expected to be replicated for future projects.

Reno County Commission Chair Ron Hirst said the county remains committed to economic development efforts that create jobs and generate broader economic impact.

Hutchinson Mayor Scott Meggers said the city supported the vision for development in the industrial park to demonstrate that Hutchinson is positioned for business expansion.

Debra Teufel, president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, said the availability of modern, move-in-ready industrial space played a key role in facilitating the company’s growth and strengthening its long-term investment in Reno County.

National Modular MFG to expand locally

&nbsp;The Hutchinson City Council approved a new beverage sales and sponsorship agreement with PepsiCo Beverage Sales LLC that also includes Hutchinson Community College and USD 308, with city staff saying the joint contract will simplify concessions across shared venues such as Gowans Stadium and the sports arena.

Parks and Facilities Director Justin Combs said the agreement runs through June 2030 and includes minimum purchase thresholds, $1,500 in initial support funds for the city and $11,300 annually in support funds, plus 75 free cases of product. He said Pepsi provides and services equipment at no cost, with 104 total pieces of equipment citywide — including about 40 in city-owned facilities — such as coolers and vending machines. The contract caps per-unit price increases at no more than 5% annually, Combs said, and includes vending service language used by the college and school district, while the city self-services its machines.

Combs told council the city’s previous Pepsi agreement provided about $3,500 a year in benefits, making the new package “significantly more” valuable. Council members raised administrative cleanup issues, including correcting signatories listed on earlier versions of the document, before voting unanimously to approve the agreement and authorize the mayor to sign.

In a separate discussion, City Attorney Paul Brown told council an existing development agreement with Superior Holding — tied to the city’s job-creation incentive Policy 30 — already covers incentives through 2030 and requires a minimum of 10 new jobs paying at least $21 an hour with health insurance. Brown said the agreement contains no maximum number of jobs eligible for incentives, and he recommended no council action unless the company seeks amendments.

Council members and economic development representatives discussed whether the city should revisit its incentive policies to push higher wages, potential cost-of-living adjustments, “but-for” language, and additional accountability measures. Chamber officials said state incentive programs use wage thresholds tied to NAICS industry codes and noted Reno County’s median hourly wage is about $20.13 based on state assessments. A resident criticized the city’s use of incentives and wage floors, while council members defended incentives as voluntary conditions for eligibility rather than mandates.

Also during the meeting, Utilities Director David Guinn reported water system repairs and leak detection efforts reduced treated-water loss by about 117 million gallons compared with the prior year — roughly a 4% improvement — producing an estimated $166,000 in treatment cost savings and about $591,000 in potential future revenue if the saved water is sold, for total impacts nearing three-quarters of a million dollars. Guinn credited aggressive work on main breaks, leaks, hydrants and valves, and said the city plans to conduct systemwide leak detection every three years.

Strategic Growth Director Dave Sotelo also invited the public to the launch of “Build Hutch,” a yearlong, grant-funded small-scale development program designed to help residents move projects from concept to completion. The kickoff is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall, with optional registration available through the city’s website.

Council approves beverage contract, discusses development agreement

\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. ——————————————



Drew	David	Sims		2/17/2026 8:23&nbsp;AM	Forgery; Making, altering, endorsing,					Failure to Appear,					Worthless Checks; $1,000 to $24,999,					Failure to Appear

Taylor	Nichole	Ryan		2/17/2026 11:25&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Scott	Andrew	Cooley		2/17/2026 12:20&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Matthew	Adam	Collingwood		2/17/2026 2:50&nbsp;PM	In Transit From-To Other Agency

Thomas	Cody Dale	Hagan		2/17/2026 3:19&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv,					DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator,					Failure to Appear

Alyssa	Nicole	King		2/17/2026 3:42&nbsp;PM	Distr heroin/certain stim/fent;3.5 - &lt;100grams,					Possession of Parapernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance,					Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil rights leader, presidential candidate and founder of the organization Operation PUSH, leaves behind a legacy that supporters say reshaped American politics and expanded opportunities for marginalized communities.

Dr. Hence Parson and Darrell Pope of the "Parson and Pope" podcast reflected on Jackson’s place in history, describing him as a pivotal figure in the fight for equality, social justice and voting rights.

“He was a leader in the area of equality and social justice,” Darrell Pope said. “He did a lot to bring about change and to put it on the world’s conscience about equality and human dignity.”

Jackson rose to national prominence as a close associate of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. In the decades that followed, he founded Operation PUSH — later part of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition — advocating for economic empowerment, education access and expanded political participation.

Pope said Jackson consistently emphasized the importance of voting and civic engagement, urging Americans to take part in the democratic process even when progress seemed slow.

“His message was about equality of opportunity and justice,” Dr. Parson said. “No matter how many times you heard him, he always emphasized voting rights and making a difference in your life.”

Jackson twice sought the Democratic nomination for president, mounting historic campaigns in 1984 and 1988. Though unsuccessful, those bids are widely viewed as having broadened the political landscape and demonstrated the viability of a Black candidate competing seriously for the nation’s highest office.

Observers on the program said those campaigns helped lay the groundwork for the election of Barack Obama in 2008.

“People began recognizing that it was possible,” Dr. Parson said. “He tried to break that color barrier and laid the groundwork.”

Jackson also traveled extensively, including visits to Kansas communities such as Great Bend and Hutchinson, where residents recalled hearing him speak and attending receptions during his appearances in the state.

Those reflecting on his life said Jackson’s broader legacy lies in his insistence that diverse voices have a seat at the table.

“For too many years, that was not the case,” Dr. Parson said. “Give individuals who are different the opportunity to sit at the table and have discussions about their lives.”

Dr. Parson added that Jackson’s work underscored a belief that societies function best when inclusion is prioritized.

“It’s been proven that when everybody is included and allowed to participate, the country is better for it,” Pope added.

As communities look back on Jackson’s decades of activism, those who followed his work say the responsibility now falls on a new generation to continue advocating for fairness, opportunity and human dignity.

Parson and Pope remember Rev. Jesse Jackson

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

Three-day Outlook

Firefighters across Kansas were very busy today. Many fires were suppressed without state assistance. KFS and partners assisted with the following fires. 

Burned from Texas Co Ok into Seward Co. Located southwest of Liberal, forward progress is stopped for now and crews are actively working to extinguish hot spots. 

Located southeast Liberal is actively burning. Johnson County Task Force and KFS DFMO Williams is engaged with the local fire departments. The head fire is approaching Meade Co. 

This fire continues to burn actively and Kansas Forest Service DFMO Brad Ilonummi and other state resources are working with local responders on this fire.

Continues to burn actively moving east and is located south of Protection, KS. 

The Sedgwick Co Task Force is engaged on this fire along with KFS Assistant Fire Management Officer Dennis Carlson. 

Aviation and additional Kansas Task Forces will be available tomorrow to assist the local fire departments. 

Please check local social media outlets for evacuation notifications. 

Kansas Forest Service provides wildfire update

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management has staffed the State Emergency Operations Center with Emergency Support Function partners from the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Forest Service, Kansas Highway Patrol, Kansas Department of Transportation, and the National Weather Service in response to wildland fire threats across the state.

Blowing winds and possible wildfires are expected to continue this evening and into Wednesday. Motorists are advised to delay traveling as much as possible and to not drive into dust where visibility is restricted. Do not go into areas where active fires are being fought. Give emergency crews time and space to work.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is working alongside partner agencies in Southwest and Northwest Kansas to support wildfire response efforts through emergency response, evacuation assistance, traffic control, enforcement of safety closures, and securing affected areas. For emergencies, continue to dial *47(HP) while traveling on Kansas roadways, or *KTA (582) if traveling on the Kansas Turnpike."

The Kansas Department of Transportation closed portions of I-70 in northwest Kansas and U.S. 50 in southwest Kansas at times today that could continue tonight due to reduced visibility from blowing dust which has caused several crashes. &nbsp;Similar conditions and multiple crashes have also occurred in Colorado and Oklahoma and have closed highways. KDOT has sent water tenders to support fire suppression efforts in the Englewood and Ashland communities.

For the latest updates on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.gov/">kandrive.gov</a>, or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal has sent an agent and the State Fire Marshal to Southwest Kansas to assist local responders. An agent will be sent to Northwest Kansas later today. Task Forces have been sent to different locations across the state. The Task Forces are from Johnson County, Sedgwick County, Dickinson County, Shawnee County and the Kansas National Guard.

Kansas Forest Service personnel are assisting with the wildfire outbreak in Kansas by providing subject-matter-expertise to local fire departments actively engaged in wildfire suppression operations which assist in determining priorities for limited resources statewide.

The Kansas National Guard has deployed a wildfire task force to western Kansas to help with fire suppression.

The American Red Cross is assisting counties impacted with mass care and human service’s needs.

Kansas Division of Emergency Management provides wildfire update

The Food Bank of Reno County will move into a larger facility next week after successfully completing its capital campaign, Executive Director Angela Penner announced.

Penner said the organization met its fundraising goal “due to the generosity of our community” and is scheduled to relocate to 921 E. Fourth Ave., at the corner of Fourth and Severance.

The food bank will suspend operations during the move next week and reopen March 3 at the new site.

The expanded space significantly increases storage capacity, particularly for perishable goods. Penner said the new facility has roughly tripled its cold storage area, allowing the organization to accept and distribute more dairy and other refrigerated items.

“We’re going to be able to serve people with a lot more dignity,” Penner said. “People will be able to come through and shop our aisles like a grocery store.”

At its current location, the food bank can serve only one or two patrons at a time, creating delays on busy days. The new site will allow walk-in service without appointments and introduce a client-choice model, enabling families to select items that best meet their needs.

Beginning March 3, distribution hours will be 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; noon to 7 p.m. Thursdays; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays.

The Food Bank of Reno County serves at least 15,000 people annually. Penner said the organization operates primarily through community donations and volunteer support and does not receive dedicated funding for its core programs.

The project gained momentum after the organization won the United Way of Reno County’s Spark Tank competition last fall, which Penner said increased public awareness and support.

The outgoing Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce board chair,&nbsp;Nick Baldetti selected the food bank as the recipient of a $200 gift.&nbsp; The foodbank has a grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for March 12.

The new building, a former grocery store, was purchased by the food bank. Rental income from other tenants in the building will help offset operational costs.

First Call for Help will share space in the facility, creating what Penner described as a “one-stop shop” for clients seeking food assistance and additional community resources. The organization is also partnering with K-State Research and Extension to provide educational programming and working with United Way to connect clients with further services.

A community food drive is scheduled for March 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dillons Marketplace, with support from Eagle Media. The food bank is seeking donations of cereal, pancake mix, syrup and canned fruit, along with perishable items such as milk, eggs and cheese.

Penner said volunteers remain essential to operations, and those interested can contact the Volunteer Center at Hutchinson Community College.

“We just want to thank our community,” Penner said. “The support has been overwhelming.”

Food Bank of Reno County set to make move

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries">Click&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners</a>.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/35522b08-cd30-49e1-93e0-85962282628b">PLEASE CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEW OBITUARY POLICY.</a> Funeral homes can send notices to <a href="http://hutchpost@eaglemedia.com">hutchpost@eaglemedia.com&nbsp;</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> </a>

Recent obituaries and service times

STERLING, Kan. (AP) — The Sterling College Symphonic Band will take the stage Sunday afternoon for a concert featuring music by three celebrated composers, joined by guest performers from the Wichita Choral Society.

The performance will highlight works by Gustav Holst, John Rutter and Leonard Bernstein, including Holst’s “Mars” and “Jupiter” from “The Planets,” Rutter’s “Gloria,” and selections from Bernstein’s “Mass.”

Members of the Wichita Choral Society will collaborate with the Sterling College Band for the program. Guest vocalists Katelyn Mattson and Sean Foster will perform with the combined ensemble on Bernstein’s “Mass.”

The concert also will feature harpist Camden Hyder and organist Alejandro Avila.

The performance is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22, in Culbertson Auditorium on the Sterling College campus. The concert will be livestreamed on the SCMusic Facebook page.

Sterling College Symphonic band to host concert

The National Weather Service Wichita has issued a Red Flag Warning for extreme grassland fire danger across parts of central and south-central Kansas from noon to 9 p.m. CST Tuesday.

Forecasters said southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 23 percent, will create conditions favorable for rapid wildfire growth. Officials strongly discouraged outdoor burning, warning that any ignition could quickly become a fast-moving grassfire.

A separate Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. CST for southwest Kansas, where even more severe conditions are expected.

The National Weather Service Dodge City said southwest to west winds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching 60 mph, and relative humidity dropping as low as 13 percent will significantly increase the risk of extreme fire behavior.

A Red Flag Warning indicates that critical fire weather conditions are occurring or imminent. The combination of strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to rapid fire spread and intense fire behavior.

Emergency managers and fire crews were urged to prepare for potential wildfire operations, and residents were advised to avoid any activities that could spark a fire.

Red Flag Warning issued

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of homicides over the past week in Kansas City, Missouri

Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the VA hospital in Kansas City on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Officer&nbsp;Alayna Gonzalez.

Upon officers arrival, they contacted several individuals who had stated the shooting occurred in the 2900 block of Brighton Avenue. The victim, later identified as 46-year-old Richard Ennis was transported by private conveyance to the VA hospital for medical treatment. VA hospital staff advised officers he was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary information provided by a witness stated that she was inside of her residence when she heard several sounds of shots outside of her home. She exited the residence and located Ennis lying in the street suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. An adult male suspect was seen entering an unknown vehicle and left the area in an unknown direction.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies were in the area of 28th and Southwest Boulevard working off duty for a nightclub/bar business there when they heard the sound of gunfire inside the bar, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

At the same time 911 received calls for a shooting inside the business.&nbsp;On arrival officers were led inside the business where they located 3 adult female shooting victims.&nbsp;

Officers began rendering aid and called for EMS to come in.&nbsp;EMS declared one shooting victim deceased at the scene. EMS&nbsp; then transported the other two victims to the hospital for treatment. At the hospital one of the two victims was declared deceased, and the other victim has what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries, according to Becchina.&nbsp; The women who died have been identified as 29-year-old Eboni Silas and 24-year-old Tishauna Ballard, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

While officers were at the scene they were notified of a 4th shooting victim, an adult male, who arrived at the hospital by private vehicle. That victim was reported to be in critical condition.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates the victims were inside the business when there was an interaction with one or more suspects that escalated and led to shots being fired which struck the victims.&nbsp; Police have not released any details on a possible suspect.

Just after 5:30p.m. Feb 12, police were dispatched to 20th and Monroe on a sound of shots call in the area. 911 received multiple additional calls of sound of shots and eventually one call reporting a shooting victim down in a wooded area of a series of vacant lots in the 2000 block of Monroe.

On arrival officers made their way into the vacant lots and located a male shooting victim later identified as 25-year-old Terrion M. Johnson. unresponsive there. Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS responded and took over aid. They eventually declared the victim deceased here at the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Preliminary indication indicates the shooting occurred on 20th street between Askew and Monroe and Johnson ran to the south where he was located.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just after 8p.m. Feb. 11, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in 1500 block of E 59th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.&nbsp; The caller advised there was a person outside that appeared to be injured and needed help.&nbsp;

On arrival officers located a victim later identified as 28-year-old&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet in front of a residence there. Norfleet told officers he had been shot at a nearby location near an apartment complex in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road.

The victim was unable to provide any additional information regarding suspects.&nbsp;Officers called for EMS who transported the victim to the hospital with life threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Additional officers responded to the area described by the victim in the 6000 block of Blue Hills Road and located evidence of a crime scene at that location.&nbsp;

Detectives and Crime Scene investigators began conducing investigation and processing the scene for evidence.&nbsp;Later in the evening detectives were notified from the hospital that&nbsp;Jamon Norfleet had died.

At 9:30p.m. Feb. 10, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of E. Armour Blvd. in Kansas City, Missouri, on a sound of shots call, according to KCPD Sergeant Jake Becchina.

Multiple callers reported the sound of gunfire from behind an apartment building there. On arrival officers were directed to a parking lot in the back of an apartment building where they located a vehicle with shooting victims identified as 26-year-old Brittnee McMillon and and 28-year-old Jerrell Westmoreland.unresponsive inside.&nbsp;

Officers called for EMS who declared both victims deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives responded to the scene to conduct their investigation along with crime scene investigators processed the scene for available evidence.&nbsp; Police have not released details on possible suspects.

KCPD: 7 dead after violent week in Kansas City

THOMAS COUNTY —One person died in a multi-vehicle accident during a dust storm just after 1p.m. Tuesday in Thomas County

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Volvo semi driven by Ihor Batiuk, 53, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was eastbound on Interstate 70 approximately four miles west of the U.S. 83 exit in the right lane. the driver entered a blowing dust storm crossing the interstate from south to north. This storm caused little to zero visibility across the roadway. Due to the low visibility, the driver slowed his speed down.

A 2023 Toyota Highlander driven by Craig I. Goodman, 70, Ness City rear-ended the semi. After impact, the semi continued to the J&amp;J Truck Stop. The Toyota stopped in the right lane of travel.&nbsp; An eastsbound 2024 Freightliner semi driven by Dennis E. Graham, 65,&nbsp; Henryetta, Oklahoma, was behind the Toyota. The Freightliner's on-board forward crash detection sensor stopped the semi&nbsp; prior to impacting the vehicles in front involved in a separate collision and disabled in the roadway.

A eastbound 2014 Ford Explorer driven by Gary L&nbsp;Stoll, 75, Oakley, rear-ended the Freightliner. After impact the Explorer traveled to the left and stopped in the median facing south.

 The Freightliner's rear end protection was damaged in the crash. An eastbound 2026 Acura MDX driven by Bradley A. Stout, 65, Wichita, struck the rear of the Freightliner's trailer. The Acura under-rode the trailer.

An eastbound 2022 Subaru Ascent driven by William J.&nbsp;Burt, 66, Springdale, Arkansas, struck the Acura.

EMS transported Stoll to Citizen's Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. 

Batiuk, Goodman, a passenger in the Toyota and Graham were not injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stout and a passenger in the Acura Catherine W. Stout, 63, Wichita, were transported to Wesley Medical Center.

Two other passengers in the Acura Dennis J. Temaat, 71, and Joyce M. Temaat, 66, both of Dodge City were transported to Citizen's Medical Center.&nbsp; Bradley Stout was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies in chain-reaction I-70 crash in a dust storm

CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY —Due to a high number of student and staff illnesses across the district, USD 286 Sedan canceled classes for Wednesday, February 18, according to a statement from the school district social media page.

"This decision was made out of an abundance of caution to allow students and staff time to recover and to help prevent further spread of illness. During this time, our custodial team will complete a deep cleaning and sanitization of all district buildings."

All school activities and practices scheduled for this date are also canceled and&nbsp;The Chautauqua County Spelling Bee scheduled for Wednesday will not take place due to illness.

On February 4, Centre School District USD 397 announced they would not have class the rest of the week due to illness.

On Feb. 2, USD 511 Attica reported there would be no school or other activities for two days due to sickness.&nbsp;&nbsp;On January 14, Fairfield USD 310 canceled classes and participation in activities due to illness.

Another Kansas school district cancels classes due to illness

Late Monday at the direction of U.S. Southern Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted three deadly kinetic strikes on three vessels operated by 'Designated Terrorist Organizations', according to a social media report from the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and were engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Eleven male narco-terrorists were killed during these actions, 4 on the first vessel in the Eastern Pacific, 4 on the second vessel in the Eastern Pacific, and 3 on the third vessel in the Caribbean. No U.S. military forces were harmed.&nbsp;

🎥 11 killed after three new U.S. strikes on drug boats

On Tuesday, Rolling Hills Zoo announce the birth of a male southern white rhinoceros calf on February 8, 2026. The calf and his mother, Evey, are doing well and bonding as animal care staff continue to monitor the pair from a respectful distance.

Evey, 19, and the calf’s father, Kengele, 27, were both previously part of a 15-member white rhino herd, known as a “crash,” at The Wilds Safari Park and Conservation Center in Cumberland, Ohio. Evey arrived at Rolling Hills Zoo in 2020, and Kengele joined the Zoo in 2024. White rhino gestation lasts approximately 16 to 18 months.

Evey and Kengele’s pairing was recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan? (SSP), a cooperative population management program designed to ensure the long-term sustainability and genetic health of species in accredited zoos. Rolling Hills Zoo is proud to be an AZA-accredited institution, the gold standard for zoos, and an active participant in this important conservation work.

At this time, the rhino barn is closed to public viewing. The Zoo asks for patience and understanding as Evey and her calf are given time to bond and adjust. Animal care staff are entering the building only as necessary, and the pair is being closely monitored via camera.

The southern white rhino is the second-largest land mammal after the elephant and represents one of conservation’s most remarkable comeback stories, having once been brought back from the brink of extinction. However, the species continues to face serious threats. A surge in poaching for rhino horn, particularly in South Africa, has led to record losses in recent years. As of 2025, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reported a 9.8% decrease in white rhino populations, bringing the global estimate to approximately 15,752 individuals in protected areas. The species is currently classified as Near Threatened.

“This birth is not only a joyful milestone for Rolling Hills Zoo, but also an important contribution to the conservation of this incredible species,” said Mark Echevarria, RHZ Curator. “Every calf born under AZA’s Species Survival Plan represents hope for the future of white rhinos and long-term sustainability of the animals within AZA facilities, while also maintaining their genetic diversity. Rolling Hills Zoo is very proud to be a part of and contributing to that mission.”

Rolling Hills Zoo will share updates, photos, and eventual public viewing information on its website and social media channels as the calf continues to grow and thrive.

Kansas zoo announces birth of Southern White Rhino

KANSAS CITY — A Kansas City man is facing multiple charges in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred earlier this month.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2809/Willingham-Lucas---Complaint-Packet-1">Lucas Willingham</a>, 44, is charged with 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2810/Willingham---Statement-of-Probable-Cause_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police responded to a reported shooting on Feb. 11. When officers contacted the victim, he advised officers he had been shot by Willingham outside the apartment building. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he was later confirmed deceased.&nbsp;

Detectives located a spent shell casing inside the defendant’s apartment, which matched the shell casings found at the crime scene outside the apartment building.&nbsp;

Video footage from the incident captured the victim running through the apartment complex and Willingham following the victim. Willingham can be seen raising a firearm and firing it in the direction of the victim.&nbsp;

Willingham turned himself in to police on Feb. 12. During an interview with detectives, he said he was under the influence of PCP around the time of the shooting and did not know what happened and couldn’t comprehend what was going on.&nbsp;

Willingham is being held on $150,000 cash only bond.&nbsp;

Suspect turned himself in after killing man in KC apartment complex

OSAGE COUNTY –Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just before 3:30p.m. February 13, a&nbsp;Sheriff’s Office Investigator conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of K-68 &amp; K-268 Highways in rural Osage County for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

 During the stop, illegal narcotics were located. The deputy arrested 46-year-old Chance D. Eastman of Vassar and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Osage County arrest warrant.

Wanted Kansas suspect captured transporting meth

DNA from gloves found a few miles from the Arizona home of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/savannah-guthrie">Nancy Guthrie</a>&nbsp;did not match any entries in a national database, authorities said Tuesday, the 17th day of her disappearance.

“There were no DNA hits in CODIS," the Pima County Sheriff’s Department said, referring to the national Combined DNA Index System.

"At this point, there have been no confirmed CODIS matches in this investigation,” the department said, suggesting that other DNA samples had been put through the system.

CODIS is a storehouse of DNA taken from crime suspects or people with convictions. Any hits could identify possible suspects in Guthrie's disappearance.

The 84-year-old mother of NBC “Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie was reported missing from her Tucson-area home on Feb. 1 after spending the previous night with family, police said. Her blood was detected on the porch.

A porch camera&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-guthrie-nest-camera-footage-kidnapper-bd5f1d886543e23f2d105535031c9445">recorded video</a>&nbsp;of a man with a backpack who was wearing a ski mask, long pants, a jacket and gloves. The FBI said the suspect is about 5 feet, 9 inches (1.75 meters) tall with a medium build.

Gloves were found about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) from Guthrie's home. The FBI has said that the gloves appeared to match those worn by the man in the video.

“There is additional DNA evidence that was found at the residence, and that is also being analyzed,” the sheriff's department said.

In addition, the department said it's working with experts to try to locate Guthrie by detecting her heart pacemaker.

Parsons Corp. said its BlueFly device, which weighs less than a pound (.45 kilograms) and has a range of up to 218 yards (200 meters), can detect signals from wearable electronics and medical devices. The company said the technology has been used from the air and on the ground in Arizona. It declined further comment about the search.

Savannah Guthrie posted an Instagram video Sunday in which she issued an appeal to anyone with information about what happened to her mother.

"It is never too late to do the right thing,” she said. “And we are here. And we believe in the essential goodness of every human being, that it’s never too late.”

DNA results from glove found near Nancy Guthrie’s home revealed

SEWARD COUNTY—Authorities have opened emergency shelters in Seward and Comanche Counties in southwest Kansas due to wildfires, according to the Seward County Sheriff's office.

Shelter locations is the city of Liberal include the Seward County Activity Center, 810 Stadium Avenue in Liberal and&nbsp;CrossPoint Church, 204 N Sherman Avenue in Liberal.

An evacuation center in Coldwater is available for residents of Ashland at the USD 300 Gymnasium, 600 East Garfield Street. There are no reports of injuries.

Evacuation centers opened in SW Kansas due to wildfires

RAWLINS COUNTY —Just after 7p.m. Tuesday, the evacuation order was lifted for city of Herndon, according to the Rawlins County Sheriff's office.

According to the Fire Chief, the fire is 80 % contained and no longer a threat to the city of Herndon. Those who evacuated are safe to return home

RAWLINS COUNTY —The town of Herndon has been placed under an evacuation order. A large grass fire is headed toward the community, according to the Rawlins County Sheriff's office. Just after 4p.m. the fire was approximately 4-5 miles northwest of Herndon moving southeast, according to Rawlins County Emergency Management.

The residents of the community are asked to shelter in Atwood at the Redeemer Lutheran Church,&nbsp;808 1st Street. There were no injuries reported as of 3:30p.m. Tuesday. Check the post for additional details as they become available.

Evacuation order lifted for NW Kansas community after wildfire

HAYSVILLE, Kan. (AP) — The Hutchinson Salthawks earned a split in AVCTL action Tuesday night at Campus High School, as the girls held off a late rally for a 51-47 win while the boys fell 47-36 in the nightcap.

The victory keeps the Hutchinson girls trending upward, while the boys absorbed their 13th loss of the season.

Hutchinson built an early cushion and then held off a fourth-quarter surge from Campus to secure a 51-47 road victory.

Freshman Danai Morgan led the Salthawks with 26 points, including 17 in the first half as Hutchinson established control early. Ava Krone and Clara Ontjes each added eight points to provide balance.

Campus junior Emerleigh Cooper paced the Lady Colts with 19 points.

Hutchinson carried momentum into the second half but had to fend off a late Campus rally before closing out the four-point win.

The Salthawks now turn their attention to Friday’s trip to Newton for their final regular-season road game.

In the nightcap, Campus used a swarming defensive effort to defeat Hutchinson 47-36.

The Salthawks trimmed the deficit to threelate ih the second quarter, but the Colts responded with a 7-0 run to close the half and take a 26-16 lead into the break.

Hutchinson played Campus nearly even over the final two quarters but could not overcome the double-digit halftime deficit.

Junior Lamar Govain led the Salthawks with 19 points, while Larry Jeremiah Jr. added four. Campus was led by T. Moore and M. Caldwell with 10 points each.

Hutchinson (6-13) travels to Newton on Friday before returning home for two games next week to close out the regular season.

🏀 Hutchinson earns split at Campus in AVCTL play

MANHATTAN, Kan. (AP) — P.J. Haggerty scored 34 points, Nate Johnson added a career-high 33, and Kansas State cruised past Baylor 90-74 on Tuesday night in the debut of Wildcats' interim head coach Matthew Driscoll.

K-State (11-15, 2-11 Big 12) never trailed and held a double-digit lead for most of the second half to end a six-game skid. Driscoll replaced previous head coach Jerome Tang, who was fired Sunday night after four season at the helm.

Johnson’s layup gave the Wildcats a 21-point lead with 10:39 remaining. He surpassed his previous career-best 31 points with a dunk with 1:37 remaining.

Haggerty shot 15 of 23 overall. Johnson was 11-of-16 shooting and made five of the Wildcats' eight 3-pointers. Johnson also had nine assists and matched a career-high with six steals.

Isaac Williams IV scored 16 points to lead Baylor (13-13, 3-10), which has lost four straight. Tounde Yessoufou added 14 point for the Bears. Cameron Carr chipped in with 12 points and Dan Skillings Jr. scored 11. The Bears made just three of their 24 3-point attempts.

Johnson made four 3s and scored 16 points, and Haggerty added 13 points to help K-State build a 41-34 halftime advantage. The Wildcats shot 5 of 11 from long range while Baylor missed 11 of 12 attempts from beyond the arc.

Williams' layup pulled the Bears to 66-57 with 8:20 left but they didn't get closer.

K-State is on the road Saturday to face No. 13 Texas Tech.

🏀 Haggerty, Johnson lead K-State over Baylor in coach Matthew Driscoll's debut

The Kansas Basketball Coaches Association released its final boys and girls basketball rankings of the 2025-26 season Tuesday, with several Hutch Post area teams finishing the regular season in the top 10 of their respective classifications.

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