KYLE MCCASKEY Harvey County PIO

HARVEY COUNTY — One man was found dead and another man in critical condition at a residence east of Hesston this afternoon.

Two acquaintances of the men found both men unresponsive at a home in the 8000 block of North West Road.

Harvey County Communications received a call from one of the acquaintances at 3:49 p.m. requesting medical assistance for the two men. EMS and law enforcement were dispatched to the home.

Emergency responders found a 48-year-old man dead inside the home. His name has not been released pending notification of family.

Emergency responders performed life-saving measures on scene for a 55-year-old man. He was taken to an area hospital in critical condition. He is a resident of the home.

The incident remains under investigation by the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office. Foul play is not immediately suspected.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678486807980.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KYLE MCCASKEY Harvey County PIOHARVEY COUNTY — One man was found dead and another man in critical condition at a residence east of Hesston this afternoon.Two acquaintances of the men found both men unresponsive at a home in the 8000 block of North West Road.Harvey County Communications received a call from one of the acquaintances at 3:49 p.m. requesting medical assistance for the two men. EMS and law enforcement were dispatched to the home.Emergency responders found a 48-year-old man dead inside the home. His name has not been released pending notification of family.Emergency responders performed life-saving measures on scene for a 55-year-old man. He was taken to an area hospital in critical condition. He is a resident of the home.The incident remains under investigation by the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office. Foul play is not immediately suspected.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

One dead, another critical at home near Hesston Thursday

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Multiple Reno County Fire Districts battled and put out a fire that broke out in the county March 30.&nbsp;

At 1:57 p.m. a 911 call was made to report a small 10 x 10 fire in the north ditch in the area of US-50 and Sterling Road. 

According to a Facebook post by Reno County Emergency Management, the winds were out of the south at 26 mph gusting to 39 mph. Due to being in very high fire danger, three Reno County Fire Districts were dispatched to this call. 

14 units from Fire Districts 4, 6, and 7 responded as well as a command unit from Reno County Emergency Management. 

The first units arrived on scene in 15 minutes and found that the fire was quickly pushing across a pasture and a row of cedar trees. 

Crews were able to quickly knock down the head fire and stop all progression north and west. 

Crews remained at the scene for two and a half hours performing overhaul to ensure all hot spots were out.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661441956328.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Multiple Reno County Fire Districts battled and put out a fire that broke out in the county March 30.&nbsp;At 1:57 p.m. a 911 call was made to report a small 10 x 10 fire in the north ditch in the area of US-50 and Sterling Road. According to a Facebook post by Reno County Emergency Management, the winds were out of the south at 26 mph gusting to 39 mph. Due to being in very high fire danger, three Reno County Fire Districts were dispatched to this call. 14 units from Fire Districts 4, 6, and 7 responded as well as a command unit from Reno County Emergency Management. The first units arrived on scene in 15 minutes and found that the fire was quickly pushing across a pasture and a row of cedar trees. Crews were able to quickly knock down the head fire and stop all progression north and west. The fire was contained to 20 acres. Crews remained at the scene for two and a half hours performing overhaul to ensure all hot spots were out.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Multiple fire districts respond to pasture fire near US-50

UPDATE: Newton Public Schools announced&nbsp; on March 30, school will be in session on Friday, March 31.&nbsp;

"Thank you for your patience as we continue to work through our network-security incident," Newton Public Schools said. "Please keep in mind that the investigation is still in its early stages.&nbsp; As of today, we have no evidence that student personal&nbsp;information was accessed&nbsp;or obtained."

Newton Public Schools advised parents to keep in mind that the investigation is ongoing. The school district said they will update the community as they learn more.

School will resume in full tomorrow, Friday, March 31.

"We appreciate your understanding as we work through this issue," Newton Public Schools. "We will keep you updated on any relevant developments as the investigation continues."

___________________________________________

UPDATE: Newton Public Schools announced school is canceled for Thursday, March 30.

Newton Public Schools are expecting school to resume in full on Friday, March 31.&nbsp;

All scheduled extracurricular athletic games and activities will continue as planned. NRC Clubhouse is providing Latchkey all day - please contact them for information.

Lunch will be provided tomorrow to students who want it via sack lunch pickup from 11:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Newton High School. Students' accounts will be charged as normal.&nbsp;

"We appreciate your understanding as we work through this issue," Newton Public Schools said. "We will keep you updated on relevant developments as the investigation continues."

NEWTON, Kan. — Newton USD 373 issued a release Tuesday night saying that schools in that district will be closed Wednesday. "We have learned that it is a network security incident," the release said.&nbsp; "We have been working with external information technology experts to conduct a detailed&nbsp;technical investigation into the incident. We have also notified law enforcement. Please&nbsp;remember that our investigation is in its earliest stages and is still ongoing."

The school system continues to work around the clock to resolve any disruption of certain systems and operations, which, out of an abundance of caution, have remained offline until staff is confident&nbsp;that we can safely bring them back into service. So, there will be NO SCHOOL TOMORROW, Wednesday, March 29, 2023. The district will update the community tomorrow regarding whether the school will be opened on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

If you have questions, please call Superintendent Fred Van Ranken at 316-284-6206. Below are questions and answers provided by the district.

What happened? On March 28, 2023, we detected a network security incident affecting certain systems within our network&nbsp;environment. We immediately shut down affected systems, and have engaged third party forensic specialists to investigate the extent of the activity. We have also notified law enforcement. The investigation is in the earliest stages and is currently ongoing.

Why was this called an internet outage at first? That was our initial understanding of the incident. Upon further investigation we discovered it was actually a network security incident.

How did this happen? We are currently working with third party forensic specialists to investigate the extent of the unauthorized activity, which includes the root cause. The investigation is in the earliest stages, and is currently ongoing.

Is my personal / business data involved? We are thoroughly investigating the incident now with third-party forensic specialists. The investigation is in the earliest stages, and we have not yet determined the extent of the unauthorized activity, including whether any personal or confidential information was involved. If individual personal information is involved, we will notify affected individuals in accordance with relevant state and federal laws.

Was this ransomware? To protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, we are unable to share additional information about the nature of the incident.

Will this affect student class schedules or assignments? We have cancelled school for Wednesday, March 29, 2023. We are still determining whether school will open Thursday, March 30, 2023. Further, during this time there may be a disruption to certain resources, and we are working to mitigate any delays or interruptions. We thank you for your patience during this time. When will the investigation be complete?&nbsp;&nbsp; We cannot offer a definitive timeline at this point as this is a time intensive process. That said, we hope to conclude the investigation in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649779215960.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: Newton Public Schools announced&nbsp; on March 30, school will be in session on Friday, March 31.&nbsp;"Thank you for your patience as we continue to work through our network-security incident," Newton Public Schools said. "Please keep in mind that the investigation is still in its early stages.&nbsp; As of today, we have no evidence that student personal&nbsp;information was accessed&nbsp;or obtained."Newton Public Schools advised parents to keep in mind that the investigation is ongoing. The school district said they will update the community as they learn more.School will resume in full tomorrow, Friday, March 31."We appreciate your understanding as we work through this issue," Newton Public Schools. "We will keep you updated on any relevant developments as the investigation continues."___________________________________________UPDATE: Newton Public Schools announced school is canceled for Thursday, March 30.Newton Public Schools are expecting school to resume in full on Friday, March 31.&nbsp;All scheduled extracurricular athletic games and activities will continue as planned. NRC Clubhouse is providing Latchkey all day - please contact them for information.Lunch will be provided tomorrow to students who want it via sack lunch pickup from 11:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. at Newton High School. Students' accounts will be charged as normal.&nbsp;"We appreciate your understanding as we work through this issue," Newton Public Schools said. "We will keep you updated on relevant developments as the investigation continues."___________________________________________NEWTON, Kan. — Newton USD 373 issued a release Tuesday night saying that schools in that district will be closed Wednesday. "We have learned that it is a network security incident," the release said.&nbsp; "We have been working with external information technology experts to conduct a detailed&nbsp;technical investigation into the incident. We have also notified law enforcement. Please&nbsp;remember that our investigation is in its earliest stages and is still ongoing." The school system continues to work around the clock to resolve any disruption of certain systems and operations, which, out of an abundance of caution, have remained offline until staff is confident&nbsp;that we can safely bring them back into service. So, there will be NO SCHOOL TOMORROW, Wednesday, March 29, 2023. The district will update the community tomorrow regarding whether the school will be opened on Thursday, March 30, 2023.If you have questions, please call Superintendent Fred Van Ranken at 316-284-6206. Below are questions and answers provided by the district.What happened? On March 28, 2023, we detected a network security incident affecting certain systems within our network&nbsp;environment. We immediately shut down affected systems, and have engaged third party forensic specialists to investigate the extent of the activity. We have also notified law enforcement. The investigation is in the earliest stages and is currently ongoing.Why was this called an internet outage at first? That was our initial understanding of the incident. Upon further investigation we discovered it was actually a network security incident.How did this happen? We are currently working with third party forensic specialists to investigate the extent of the unauthorized activity, which includes the root cause. The investigation is in the earliest stages, and is currently ongoing.Is my personal / business data involved? We are thoroughly investigating the incident now with third-party forensic specialists. The investigation is in the earliest stages, and we have not yet determined the extent of the unauthorized activity, including whether any personal or confidential information was involved. If individual personal information is involved, we will notify affected individuals in accordance with relevant state and federal laws.Was this ransomware? To protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, we are unable to share additional information about the nature of the incident.Will this affect student class schedules or assignments? We have cancelled school for Wednesday, March 29, 2023. We are still determining whether school will open Thursday, March 30, 2023. Further, during this time there may be a disruption to certain resources, and we are working to mitigate any delays or interruptions. We thank you for your patience during this time. When will the investigation be complete?&nbsp;&nbsp; We cannot offer a definitive timeline at this point as this is a time intensive process. That said, we hope to conclude the investigation in the coming weeks.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Newton USD 373 back in school Friday after security incident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 31-year-old man was arrested Wednesday with&nbsp;fake oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.

According to a release, Hutchinson Police Department Special Operations Division arrested Holden S. Walden for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Officers seized over one hundred suspected fake oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.&nbsp;

If you have information regarding the distribution of illegal narcotics you can contact Crimestoppers of Reno County at 800-222-TIPS, your local law enforcement agency, or use your P3Tips App on your smartphone.

 All defendants are innocent until and unless they are found guilty in court. Further questions regarding this case should be directed to the Office of the District Attorney at 620-694-2715.​

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680206140730.jpeg" alt="Fentanyl Arrest 03292023-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Police" />
 <figcaption>Fentanyl Arrest 03292023-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Police</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A 31-year-old man was arrested Wednesday with&nbsp;fake oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680206198324.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to a release, Hutchinson Police Department Special Operations Division arrested Holden S. Walden for possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Officers seized over one hundred suspected fake oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.&nbsp;If you have information regarding the distribution of illegal narcotics you can contact Crimestoppers of Reno County at 800-222-TIPS, your local law enforcement agency, or use your P3Tips App on your smartphone. All defendants are innocent until and unless they are found guilty in court. Further questions regarding this case should be directed to the Office of the District Attorney at 620-694-2715.​<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Fentanyl seized in Hutch PD arrest

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Reno County Sheriff’s Office announced on March 30, an arrest has been made and items recovered in connection to a burglary case that occurred on early in the month. &nbsp;

On March 7, at approximately 8 a.m., Reno County deputies were dispatched to a rural property on North Langdon Road close to the Reno/Rice County line for a burglary that occurred sometime overnight. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Through investigation, it was discovered that approximately $50,000 to $60,000 worth of tools and miscellaneous equipment was stolen from several outbuildings. Among the items stolen were various Snap-On brand hand tools with the number “8” etched into them, as well as power tools, and four catalytic converters.&nbsp;

“This was a very difficult investigation, but through some hard work by our patrol and detective division’s, we were able to serve a search warrant and gather several of the stolen items,” Reno County Sheriff’s said in a release on their Facebook page.  &nbsp;

This investigation is still ongoing.&nbsp;

Also on March 30, the Reno County Sheriff’s Office announced they recovered a 1995 Suzuki RM250 dirt bike on March 29.&nbsp;

On Feb. 28, deputies were dispatched to an address on West 17 Ave. just West of Hutchinson for a burglary that occurred sometime between Feb. 26 and Feb. 28. &nbsp;During the burglary a 1995 yellow Suzuki RM250 dirt bike with the number “41” on the handlebars was stolen.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

“This was recovered yesterday evening by detectives from our agency in Wichita,” Reno County Sheriff’s Office said. “We were very excited to get this back to the rightful owner, who also assisted in the investigation.” &nbsp;

An arrest has not been made on this case and it is still ongoing. 

People with information are asked to&nbsp;contact the Reno County Sheriff’s Office at (620) 694-2735. Reference case number 2023-2216 for the March 7 theft and reference case number 2023-1912 for the dirt bike. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Those preferring to stay anonymous, can call the Reno County Crime Stoppers at (620) 694-2666 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). They can also submit tips to&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.P3tips.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR26tEGLbKywvDUjObqNQVNzNUt10gS6G96Cia6zNQeP1ggEV66WfI-6Wy4&amp;h=AT28RldbIgP9h0G_yHTS5HukvtJ41O71alhvsbwu3rNQo6KsfHpqAHbNPSmzaA50nMAqZrxVxB9YRBNrSpbPmB2fRv_1r1oruLHnDhqF8ansg40Kk4mrM2FvBffZ6p1f-VdTOPVZuoJ8R0U8nA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT23rfljmuBO3SZgHC4f4erCcsS2CsAiGJBVYbeJPrtH7opPTvqa081k2GwTm8LIghBRGWc02yWtQhuGEL-dpH5n5JM0O2BpjzRYbGpV2WbFc64omm99bfAbyml80n8VaDH9EEpNFayd4wCYLPDMKqneQOgmPUPd0YUPHEQh_jEYLvI1lmqd7jRPMZtAZ9tFDVAcew" target="_blank">www.P3tips.com.</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678425773152.jpeg" alt="One of the theft cases involved a stolen dirt bike, which has since been recovered. [PHOTO: Reno County Sheriff's Office]&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>One of the theft cases involved a stolen dirt bike, which has since been recovered. [PHOTO: Reno County Sheriff's Office]&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Reno County Sheriff’s Office announced on March 30, an arrest has been made and items recovered in connection to a burglary case that occurred on early in the month. &nbsp;On March 7, at approximately 8 a.m., Reno County deputies were dispatched to a rural property on North Langdon Road close to the Reno/Rice County line for a burglary that occurred sometime overnight. &nbsp;&nbsp;Through investigation, it was discovered that approximately $50,000 to $60,000 worth of tools and miscellaneous equipment was stolen from several outbuildings. Among the items stolen were various Snap-On brand hand tools with the number “8” etched into them, as well as power tools, and four catalytic converters.&nbsp;“This was a very difficult investigation, but through some hard work by our patrol and detective division’s, we were able to serve a search warrant and gather several of the stolen items,” Reno County Sheriff’s said in a release on their Facebook page. &nbsp;This investigation is still ongoing.&nbsp;Also on March 30, the Reno County Sheriff’s Office announced they recovered a 1995 Suzuki RM250 dirt bike on March 29.&nbsp;On Feb. 28, deputies were dispatched to an address on West 17 Ave. just West of Hutchinson for a burglary that occurred sometime between Feb. 26 and Feb. 28. &nbsp;During the burglary a 1995 yellow Suzuki RM250 dirt bike with the number “41” on the handlebars was stolen.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;“This was recovered yesterday evening by detectives from our agency in Wichita,” Reno County Sheriff’s Office said. “We were very excited to get this back to the rightful owner, who also assisted in the investigation.” &nbsp;An arrest has not been made on this case and it is still ongoing. People with information are asked to&nbsp;contact the Reno County Sheriff’s Office at (620) 694-2735. Reference case number 2023-2216 for the March 7 theft and reference case number 2023-1912 for the dirt bike. &nbsp;&nbsp;Those preferring to stay anonymous, can call the Reno County Crime Stoppers at (620) 694-2666 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). They can also submit tips to&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.P3tips.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR26tEGLbKywvDUjObqNQVNzNUt10gS6G96Cia6zNQeP1ggEV66WfI-6Wy4&amp;h=AT28RldbIgP9h0G_yHTS5HukvtJ41O71alhvsbwu3rNQo6KsfHpqAHbNPSmzaA50nMAqZrxVxB9YRBNrSpbPmB2fRv_1r1oruLHnDhqF8ansg40Kk4mrM2FvBffZ6p1f-VdTOPVZuoJ8R0U8nA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT23rfljmuBO3SZgHC4f4erCcsS2CsAiGJBVYbeJPrtH7opPTvqa081k2GwTm8LIghBRGWc02yWtQhuGEL-dpH5n5JM0O2BpjzRYbGpV2WbFc64omm99bfAbyml80n8VaDH9EEpNFayd4wCYLPDMKqneQOgmPUPd0YUPHEQh_jEYLvI1lmqd7jRPMZtAZ9tFDVAcew" target="_blank">www.P3tips.com.</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Reno County Sheriff's Office makes progress in burglary cases

Are you ready for a sweet chance to win some dough? Play Dollars to Donuts, the radio contest that's sure to satisfy your craving for carbs and cash! Listen weekdays at 9am, 12N and 3pm to one of our Eagle Radio stations in Hutchinson; My 93.1 FM, Country 102.9 or 1450AM/98.5 FM KWBW.&nbsp; That's when we'll give you the Keyword to Qualify. When you hear it, enter it below within 15 minutes for your chance to win a fresh box of donuts from Hutchinson Daylight donuts, AND qualify for some BIG DOUGH...our weekly random drawing for $500! We'd bet ya Dollars to Donuts you're gonna be a winner! So tune in, log those keywords and get ready to win in this ALL-LOCAL multi-station contest from Hutchinson Clinic, Hutch Post and Eagle Radio Hutchinson!

(Click the link at the bottom of the entry form below for complete rules)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680192994335.jpeg" alt="Contest begins April 10th at 9am!" />
 <figcaption>Contest begins April 10th at 9am!</figcaption>
 </figure>Are you ready for a sweet chance to win some dough? Play Dollars to Donuts, the radio contest that's sure to satisfy your craving for carbs and cash! Listen weekdays at 9am, 12N and 3pm to one of our Eagle Radio stations in Hutchinson; My 93.1 FM, Country 102.9 or 1450AM/98.5 FM KWBW.&nbsp; That's when we'll give you the Keyword to Qualify. When you hear it, enter it below within 15 minutes for your chance to win a fresh box of donuts from Hutchinson Daylight donuts, AND qualify for some BIG DOUGH...our weekly random drawing for $500! We'd bet ya Dollars to Donuts you're gonna be a winner! So tune in, log those keywords and get ready to win in this ALL-LOCAL multi-station contest from Hutchinson Clinic, Hutch Post and Eagle Radio Hutchinson! (Click the link at the bottom of the entry form below for complete rules)<div>  <script src="https://embed-973730.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="842f1109-0a97-4180-8eaa-e2006cfc713e" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div>

Win $500 with "Dollars to Donuts!"

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory from 11 a.m. Thursday to 7 p.m. Friday.&nbsp;South winds will begin at 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph&nbsp; expected. Winds will be strongest Friday over portions of central, south central and southwest Kansas.

Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree  limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

Also, a Red Flag Warning is in effect for a&nbsp;particularly dangerous situation, which is in effect from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. CDT Friday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect.

Extreme Grassland Fire Danger is forecast. This is a particularly dangerous situation for mainly south-central and  southeast Kansas.

Winds will be from the West 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph, and strongest  over south-central and southeast Kansas.

Relative Humidity on Friday will be as low as 15 percent and lowest over southern  Kansas.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly  and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not  recommended.

A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680176134500.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory from 11 a.m. Thursday to 7 p.m. Friday.&nbsp;South winds will begin at 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph&nbsp; expected. Winds will be strongest Friday over portions of central, south central and southwest Kansas.Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.Also, a Red Flag Warning is in effect for a&nbsp;particularly dangerous situation, which is in effect from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. CDT Friday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect.Extreme Grassland Fire Danger is forecast. This is a particularly dangerous situation for mainly south-central and southeast Kansas.Winds will be from the West 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph, and strongest over south-central and southeast Kansas.Relative Humidity on Friday will be as low as 15 percent and lowest over southern Kansas.Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wind Advisory Thursday, Red Flag Warning Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson city crews are currently working on two water main breaks that require an interruption of service on E 17th Ave. from N Maple St to N Plum St. 

The estimated time of service restoration is by 4 p.m. today.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680189414699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson city crews are currently working on two water main breaks that require an interruption of service on E 17th Ave. from N Maple St to N Plum St. The estimated time of service restoration is by 4 p.m. today.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Avoid 17th Thursday, water crews at work

PLEASANTVIEW — The Pleasantview Spring Celebration is Saturday, April 1.

"It originally started out as&nbsp;Pleasantview coming together and really just having a customer appreciation day," said Ben Miller with Stutzman's Greenhouse. "It used to be a two day event, we did it a Friday and a Saturday. A lot of things have changed over the years, but this year we're kind of coming back to that concept."

The celebration will begin with free food at the&nbsp;Pleasantview Activity Center at 5013 South Dean Road starting at 7:30 a.m. Saturday.

"We will be serving pancakes and sausage, all you can eat," said Norm Yutzy with Pleasantview Home Improvement. "The merchants are doing this to help draw people and have an enjoyable time. The breakfast is on the merchants, so please come and enjoy with us."

The breakfast is going on until 10:30 a.m. There is also an emergency vehicle display from 9 a.m. to noon, an antique tractor show starting at 9 a.m. and the antique tractor pull at 11 a.m.

Individual merchants will also have demonstrations, prize drawings, refreshments, giveaways and specials in their stores. A full schedule can be picked up at the breakfast. Merchants without storefronts will also be present at the breakfast.

"There will be booths around where people can visit with each business if they like," Yutzy said. "Get a short brief essay, I guess you'd say, of who we are."

Pleasantview, Kansas is located 5 miles west of Hutchinson on Highways 50 and 61.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680188997710.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostPLEASANTVIEW — The Pleasantview Spring Celebration is Saturday, April 1."It originally started out as&nbsp;Pleasantview coming together and really just having a customer appreciation day," said Ben Miller with Stutzman's Greenhouse. "It used to be a two day event, we did it a Friday and a Saturday. A lot of things have changed over the years, but this year we're kind of coming back to that concept."The celebration will begin with free food at the&nbsp;Pleasantview Activity Center at 5013 South Dean Road starting at 7:30 a.m. Saturday."We will be serving pancakes and sausage, all you can eat," said Norm Yutzy with Pleasantview Home Improvement. "The merchants are doing this to help draw people and have an enjoyable time. The breakfast is on the merchants, so please come and enjoy with us."The breakfast is going on until 10:30 a.m. There is also an emergency vehicle display from 9 a.m. to noon, an antique tractor show starting at 9 a.m. and the antique tractor pull at 11 a.m.Individual merchants will also have demonstrations, prize drawings, refreshments, giveaways and specials in their stores. A full schedule can be picked up at the breakfast. Merchants without storefronts will also be present at the breakfast."There will be booths around where people can visit with each business if they like," Yutzy said. "Get a short brief essay, I guess you'd say, of who we are."Pleasantview, Kansas is located 5 miles west of Hutchinson on Highways 50 and 61.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Pleasantview Spring Celebration is Saturday

RENO COUNTY — Sylvia Road between Long View Road and Arlington Road will be closed to all through traffic beginning Monday, April 3, 2023, for bridge replacement.

The road is closed until further notice. A detour route will be posted.

If you have questions about Reno County Public Works projects, call&nbsp;Public Works Director Don Brittain at (620) 694-2976.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637337389800.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — Sylvia Road between Long View Road and Arlington Road will be closed to all through traffic beginning Monday, April 3, 2023, for bridge replacement.The road is closed until further notice. A detour route will be posted.If you have questions about Reno County Public Works projects, call&nbsp;Public Works Director Don Brittain at (620) 694-2976.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Bridge replacement causes county road closure

INMAN, Kan. — An elementary principal is leaving her job early. 

According to an email to parents Thursday morning, Jo McFadden, principal at Inman Elementary, submitted her resignation at a special Board of Education meeting.

McFadden's resignation is immediate. The counselor at the school,&nbsp;Tracy Goracke will be taking over the building administrator duties for the remainder of the school year.

Superintendent Scott Friesen did not give a reason for the resignation in his email Thursday. According to her LinkedIn page, McFadden had been in Inman since 2015.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583521325143.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>INMAN, Kan. — An elementary principal is leaving her job early. According to an email to parents Thursday morning, Jo McFadden, principal at Inman Elementary, submitted her resignation at a special Board of Education meeting.McFadden's resignation is immediate. The counselor at the school,&nbsp;Tracy Goracke will be taking over the building administrator duties for the remainder of the school year.Superintendent Scott Friesen did not give a reason for the resignation in his email Thursday. According to her LinkedIn page, McFadden had been in Inman since 2015.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Inman elementary principal resigns

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 Third Avenue and North Washington Streets. The Underwood &amp; Viles Cold Storage Co. was organized about 1900. 

In February 1903, they opened a large facility at 307 N. Washington, costing $60,000. It used 700,000 bricks and had 300,000 cubic feet for storage. 

A large percentage was used to store apples and sweet potatoes. The egg storage rooms were the only ones of their kind for the first 10 years. The first photo shows that company ownership. 

In 1924, the company was owned by Eagan Produce Co. Arthur Eagan was president. In 1929, it was the Hutchinson Produce Co., owned by the Fraziers. The second photo shows that ownership. 

In 1941, J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons purchased the building and it became their cold storage and corporate offices. 

In 1948, Dillons moved its grocery warehouse and offices to 2700 E. 4th. In 1960, the produce storage moved there, too. 

In 1970, Harmon Furniture moved into 307 N. Washington after its downtown store burned down. 

In 1986, the building was razed and the old Nash Finch building, just north of it, was completely remodeled into an office complex named Trend II. 

The third photo shows the property today, still the Trend II office complex, owned by Via Fone Inc. out of Wichita.

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

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://gambinospizza.com/">Gambino's Pizza</a> <a href="https://www.myhutchinsonfurniture.com/?utm_source=EWS&amp;utm_medium=Google&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8YL-_6nS_AIVzxbUAR37_APuEAAYASAAEgKDaPD_BwE">Sleep Shoppe &amp; Furniture Gallery</a> <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://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680100803395.png" alt="Underwood &amp; Viles Storage - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - c. 1910. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Underwood &amp; Viles Storage - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - c. 1910. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677153581036.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>STEVE HARMON Hutch Post ContributorToday's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the northwest corner of West Third Avenue and North Washington Streets. The Underwood &amp; Viles Cold Storage Co. was organized about 1900. In February 1903, they opened a large facility at 307 N. Washington, costing $60,000. It used 700,000 bricks and had 300,000 cubic feet for storage. A large percentage was used to store apples and sweet potatoes. The egg storage rooms were the only ones of their kind for the first 10 years. The first photo shows that company ownership. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680100803395.png" alt="Underwood &amp; Viles Storage - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - c. 1910. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Underwood &amp; Viles Storage - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - c. 1910. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1924, the company was owned by Eagan Produce Co. Arthur Eagan was president. In 1929, it was the Hutchinson Produce Co., owned by the Fraziers. The second photo shows that ownership. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680100911885.png" alt="Underwood &amp; Viles - Eagan Produce - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - 1929. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Underwood &amp; Viles - Eagan Produce - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - 1929. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1941, J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons purchased the building and it became their cold storage and corporate offices. In 1948, Dillons moved its grocery warehouse and offices to 2700 E. 4th. In 1960, the produce storage moved there, too. In 1970, Harmon Furniture moved into 307 N. Washington after its downtown store burned down. In 1986, the building was razed and the old Nash Finch building, just north of it, was completely remodeled into an office complex named Trend II. The third photo shows the property today, still the Trend II office complex, owned by Via Fone Inc. out of Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680101267348.png" alt="Underwood &amp; Viles - Trend II - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - 2-19-2023. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Underwood &amp; Viles - Trend II - N.W. Cor. 3rd &amp; Washington - 2-19-2023. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>To purchase a print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:<a href="https://gambinospizza.com/">Gambino's Pizza</a> <a href="https://www.myhutchinsonfurniture.com/?utm_source=EWS&amp;utm_medium=Google&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8YL-_6nS_AIVzxbUAR37_APuEAAYASAAEgKDaPD_BwE">Sleep Shoppe &amp; Furniture Gallery</a> <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://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

📷 Throwback Thursday: Hutch - Then & Now Collection - Vol. 11

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The deadline is quickly approaching for the Reno County Farm Bureau scholarships for next year. 

There are&nbsp; two $500 scholarships available to a pair of high school seniors or college freshmen that meet eligibility guidelines. The parents of an applicant or the applicant must be a Reno County Farm Bureau member in good standing. The recipients could be enrolled in Vo-tech, community college, a certificate program, or a four year college. 

 Scholarship Applications are Due April 1st to the Farm Bureau office. 

Reno County Guidance Counselors, FFA Advisors, and agents have applications, or send the association an email to have an application emailed to you at <a href="mailto:Renofb@kfb.org">Renofb@kfb.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680173007157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The deadline is quickly approaching for the Reno County Farm Bureau scholarships for next year. There are&nbsp; two $500 scholarships available to a pair of high school seniors or college freshmen that meet eligibility guidelines. The parents of an applicant or the applicant must be a Reno County Farm Bureau member in good standing. The recipients could be enrolled in Vo-tech, community college, a certificate program, or a four year college. Scholarship Applications are Due April 1st to the Farm Bureau office. Reno County Guidance Counselors, FFA Advisors, and agents have applications, or send the association an email to have an application emailed to you at <a href="mailto:Renofb@kfb.org">Renofb@kfb.org</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Reno County Farm Bureau offering scholarships

HAVEN, Kan. — The City of Haven will be installing new, automated electric meters over the next few months to increase the efficiency and reliability of the electric system. 

The scheduled deployment is expected to begin the first week in April. Improving the efficiency of both operations and electricity delivery can help the city keep down costs for customers.

What is the biggest change? With the new automated meters, the City of Haven, will be able to read meters remotely from the city offices. Remote meter reading will save time, labor and money, in addition to increasing safety measures for city staff.

In addition to reducing operational costs, the new meters, which can receive and send information to computers at the city offices, will help improve the reliability of the system. This allows city staff&nbsp;to detect problems more quickly and to locate outages more precisely. 

In some cases, city workers will be able to fix the problem before customers know their power has been out.

The new meters will help the city monitor the electric system in almost real-time. This will allow the process of delivering power to be much more efficient.

A customer interface has been designed for customer use on an Apple or Android device. This will allow the customer to monitor their own energy usage from their phone or device.

The meters, which provide hourly/daily information about power use will help customers understand how and when they are using electricity. 

Armed with this information, the Haven city staff will be in a better position to help customers address billing inquiries.

Customers can find out more information about the meters by calling Haven City Hall at (620) 465-3618.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590090767638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The City of Haven will be installing new, automated electric meters over the next few months to increase the efficiency and reliability of the electric system. The scheduled deployment is expected to begin the first week in April. Improving the efficiency of both operations and electricity delivery can help the city keep down costs for customers.What is the biggest change? With the new automated meters, the City of Haven, will be able to read meters remotely from the city offices. Remote meter reading will save time, labor and money, in addition to increasing safety measures for city staff.In addition to reducing operational costs, the new meters, which can receive and send information to computers at the city offices, will help improve the reliability of the system. This allows city staff&nbsp;to detect problems more quickly and to locate outages more precisely. In some cases, city workers will be able to fix the problem before customers know their power has been out.The new meters will help the city monitor the electric system in almost real-time. This will allow the process of delivering power to be much more efficient.A customer interface has been designed for customer use on an Apple or Android device. This will allow the customer to monitor their own energy usage from their phone or device.The meters, which provide hourly/daily information about power use will help customers understand how and when they are using electricity. Armed with this information, the Haven city staff will be in a better position to help customers address billing inquiries.Customers can find out more information about the meters by calling Haven City Hall at (620) 465-3618.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Haven installing new electric meters

HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven Farmers' Market will be at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/156503145284607/user/100084201546558">Haven Senior Citizen Center</a>&nbsp;this year in the air-conditioned comfort of the facility at 106 South Kansas St. in Haven. The Market will be on the first and third Tuesday each month from May through October from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Center is going to charge a $10 fee per stall/table to offset the costs associated with the event. 

 Space is limited so, if you are an interested grower, producer, baker, crafter, or even direct sales rep, please contact the center at for an application to register as a vendor.&nbsp; For more information, call (208) 964-5876.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680172141379.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — The Haven Farmers' Market will be at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/156503145284607/user/100084201546558">Haven Senior Citizen Center</a>&nbsp;this year in the air-conditioned comfort of the facility at 106 South Kansas St. in Haven. The Market will be on the first and third Tuesday each month from May through October from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.The Center is going to charge a $10 fee per stall/table to offset the costs associated with the event. Space is limited so, if you are an interested grower, producer, baker, crafter, or even direct sales rep, please contact the center at for an application to register as a vendor.&nbsp; For more information, call (208) 964-5876.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Haven Farmers Market moving to Senior Center

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is now seeking nominations for the DAISY Awards for Nursing Excellence program. The DAISY Award is a recognition program that honors extraordinary nurses for their outstanding patient care.

"At our hospital, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients, and our nurses are a vital part of this mission. They work tirelessly to ensure that our patients receive the care and attention they need to heal and recover," said Jonna Jenkins, Chief Nursing Officer.

A volunteer committee will review the nominations monthly and the first award will be presented in April. Nurses who are nominated but not selected also receive a small pin. To nominate a nurse, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchregional.com/daisy-award-nomination/">https://www.hutchregional.com/daisy-award-nomination/</a>&nbsp;and fill out the entry form.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680171338042.jpeg" alt="Daisy Award Program-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Regional" />
 <figcaption>Daisy Award Program-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Regional</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Hutchinson Regional Medical Center is now seeking nominations for the DAISY Awards for Nursing Excellence program. The DAISY Award is a recognition program that honors extraordinary nurses for their outstanding patient care."At our hospital, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients, and our nurses are a vital part of this mission. They work tirelessly to ensure that our patients receive the care and attention they need to heal and recover," said Jonna Jenkins, Chief Nursing Officer.A volunteer committee will review the nominations monthly and the first award will be presented in April. Nurses who are nominated but not selected also receive a small pin. To nominate a nurse, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchregional.com/daisy-award-nomination/">https://www.hutchregional.com/daisy-award-nomination/</a>&nbsp;and fill out the entry form.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

HRMC launches nursing award program

NEWTON, Kan. — At Tuesday night’s meeting, the Newton City Commission awarded a contract for construction of the new public wetlands park to Vogts-Parga Construction for $261,373.86.

Funding for the new park will come from private donors and grants. The Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (KAWS) has been working with the City, the R. Michael Rhoades Foundation, and various other partners over the past few years to develop the park.

The 7.2-acre park will be built adjacent to the City’s existing manmade wetlands. Those wetlands, which were built along with the Sand Creek bank restoration project in 2009, are fed by effluent water from the adjacent Wastewater Treatment Plant. The area is very popular with wildlife, especially waterfowl, and bird counts have logged over 150 different species at this location.

This new wetlands project will be fed by stormwater runoff rather than effluent. Its public access will include a walking trail with elevated boardwalks, interpretative signage, and some higher berms so visitors can view the wildlife in the existing City wetlands. It will also include additional parking that will accommodate school buses for field trips.

KAWS has been helping to design the project and pull together multiple private funding partners, including the Rhoades Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Evergy, and others. A donation from Newton Lions Club will help fund accessibility and signage for low-vision users who do birding by ear, and a grant secured by Newton Rotary Club will fund a series of bird murals by&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm5ld3Rvbm11cmFscy5vcmcvY2FsbGZvcmFydCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMzAuNzQyNjA4MTEifQ.OsldWRAoy9BAwtJivmWPobRVyA3o99vAkiuj2Fzbj9c/s/2592705315/br/157091933829-l" target="_blank">Newton Murals &amp; Arts Project</a>.

The public can follow updates on the project on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2F3cy5vcmcvcHJvamVjdHMvci1taWNoYWVsLXJob2FkZXMtd2V0bGFuZHMtcGFyay8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwMzMwLjc0MjYwODExIn0.F3dMLHPJhjBt7jrPwUhXSOKjl_AR_KAN3r8P949k8VI/s/2592705315/br/157091933829-l" target="_blank">KAWS website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680166540648.jpeg" alt="Wetlands Park-Courtesy City of Newton" />
 <figcaption>Wetlands Park-Courtesy City of Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — At Tuesday night’s meeting, the Newton City Commission awarded a contract for construction of the new public wetlands park to Vogts-Parga Construction for $261,373.86.Funding for the new park will come from private donors and grants. The Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (KAWS) has been working with the City, the R. Michael Rhoades Foundation, and various other partners over the past few years to develop the park.The 7.2-acre park will be built adjacent to the City’s existing manmade wetlands. Those wetlands, which were built along with the Sand Creek bank restoration project in 2009, are fed by effluent water from the adjacent Wastewater Treatment Plant. The area is very popular with wildlife, especially waterfowl, and bird counts have logged over 150 different species at this location.This new wetlands project will be fed by stormwater runoff rather than effluent. Its public access will include a walking trail with elevated boardwalks, interpretative signage, and some higher berms so visitors can view the wildlife in the existing City wetlands. It will also include additional parking that will accommodate school buses for field trips.KAWS has been helping to design the project and pull together multiple private funding partners, including the Rhoades Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Evergy, and others. A donation from Newton Lions Club will help fund accessibility and signage for low-vision users who do birding by ear, and a grant secured by Newton Rotary Club will fund a series of bird murals by&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm5ld3Rvbm11cmFscy5vcmcvY2FsbGZvcmFydCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMzAuNzQyNjA4MTEifQ.OsldWRAoy9BAwtJivmWPobRVyA3o99vAkiuj2Fzbj9c/s/2592705315/br/157091933829-l" target="_blank">Newton Murals &amp; Arts Project</a>.The public can follow updates on the project on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va2F3cy5vcmcvcHJvamVjdHMvci1taWNoYWVsLXJob2FkZXMtd2V0bGFuZHMtcGFyay8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwMzMwLjc0MjYwODExIn0.F3dMLHPJhjBt7jrPwUhXSOKjl_AR_KAN3r8P949k8VI/s/2592705315/br/157091933829-l" target="_blank">KAWS website</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

New Wetlands Park going forward in Newton

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.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;

3/29/2023 11:54 PM-Kelly	Ann Stallings-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Failure to Appear

3/29/2023 11:51 PM-Holden	Shawn Walden-Drugs; Distribute Substance designated in 65-4105,4107,4109,4111(Oxy, Hydrocodone); 100 to &lt; 1K dosage units; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Probation Violation

3/29/2023 11:23 PM-Allen	Ray Pfaff-DWS; 2nd or subs conviction; Insurance; Knowingly drive uninsured vehicle; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Failure to Appear

3/29/2023 8:14 PM-Aaron	Dale Bagby-Disorderly Conduct; Brawling or fighting; Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Restraint

3/29/2023 6:17 PM-Robert	James Gonzales-Probation Violation

3/29/2023 6:12 PM-Mersade	Elizabeth Gonzales-Probation Violation

3/29/2023 1:57 PM-Johnathon	Theodore Carson-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

3/29/2023 11:22 AM-Ricky	Duane Hopewell-Aggravated Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+; DL Violation; No Drivers License

3/29/2023 9:20 AM-Uriah	Nathaniel Sanders-Failure to Appear

3/29/2023 8:33 AM-Tyler	William Dana Lang-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

3/29/2023 6:39 AM-Jaime	Lee Casey-Failure to Appear

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.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;3/29/2023 11:54 PM-Kelly	Ann Stallings-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Failure to Appear3/29/2023 11:51 PM-Holden	Shawn Walden-Drugs; Distribute Substance designated in 65-4105,4107,4109,4111(Oxy, Hydrocodone); 100 to &lt; 1K dosage units; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Probation Violation3/29/2023 11:23 PM-Allen	Ray Pfaff-DWS; 2nd or subs conviction; Insurance; Knowingly drive uninsured vehicle; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Failure to Appear3/29/2023 8:14 PM-Aaron	Dale Bagby-Disorderly Conduct; Brawling or fighting; Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Restraint3/29/2023 6:17 PM-Robert	James Gonzales-Probation Violation3/29/2023 6:12 PM-Mersade	Elizabeth Gonzales-Probation Violation3/29/2023 1:57 PM-Johnathon	Theodore Carson-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant3/29/2023 11:22 AM-Ricky	Duane Hopewell-Aggravated Burglary; Dwelling to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime; Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; DUI; 3rd in 10y;comp evidence blood/breath .08+; DL Violation; No Drivers License3/29/2023 9:20 AM-Uriah	Nathaniel Sanders-Failure to Appear3/29/2023 8:33 AM-Tyler	William Dana Lang-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv3/29/2023 6:39 AM-Jaime	Lee Casey-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — On the afternoon of Wednesday, March 29, 2023, Lincoln Elementary experienced a soft lockdown after advisement from law enforcement due to a potential incident in the neighborhood surrounding the school.&nbsp;

Students were dismissed on time and there was a brief police presence on school grounds during pickup.

No students or staff were in danger,&nbsp;and the soft lockdown was advised out of an abundance&nbsp;of caution.&nbsp;

Thank you to the Hutchinson Police Department for their quick response and communication.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680125800041.jpeg" alt="Lincoln Elementary-via Google Maps" />
 <figcaption>Lincoln Elementary-via Google Maps</figcaption>
 </figure>MARISSA MEIS USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — On the afternoon of Wednesday, March 29, 2023, Lincoln Elementary experienced a soft lockdown after advisement from law enforcement due to a potential incident in the neighborhood surrounding the school.&nbsp;Students were dismissed on time and there was a brief police presence on school grounds during pickup.No students or staff were in danger,&nbsp;and the soft lockdown was advised out of an abundance&nbsp;of caution.&nbsp;Thank you to the Hutchinson Police Department for their quick response and communication.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lincoln Elementary has soft lockdown Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Department (HPD) revealed the details on March 29 of a man a struck by a train last week. The morning of&nbsp;Monday, March 27, HPD was notified Oluwatomisin Elelu, 35, had died from his injuries. &nbsp;

On Friday, March 24 at approximately 4:14 p.m., HPD were dispatched to the railroad tracks just west of 2nd&nbsp;Ave and N. Monroe Street in reference to a pedestrian who had been struck by a train.&nbsp; &nbsp;

When officers arrived, they located the male victim with injuries consistent with being struck by a train, lying next to the tracks.&nbsp; &nbsp;

EMS arrived shortly after and transported the victim to the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for treatment.&nbsp; The victim was subsequently transferred to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Witnesses and video evidence confirmed that Elelu was walking on the tracks prior to being stuck.&nbsp; The trainmaster observed Elelu and attempted to stop, but the train could not be stopped in time.&nbsp; &nbsp;

HPD stated no foul play is suspected.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The accident is still under investigation by the Hutchinson Police Department as well as investigators with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson police log has a trespassing case number filed by BNSF Railroad Employees on March 24 at 4:16 p.m. in the 300 block of West 2nd Avenue. The log states that a person was injured, but did not give Elelu’s&nbsp;name.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/6a7740ec-b6a3-4af8-a69b-a59b94a26be3" target="_blank">the Noel Lodge homeless shelter had been inquiring about Elelu’s condition. They also have his belongings.</a> &nbsp;

HPD is asking anyone who has information on this case or any criminal activity to call Crime Stoppers of Reno County at 1-800-222-TIPS, the Hutchinson Police Department at 620-694-2834, or to use the&nbsp;P3Tips smartphone App.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673181705201.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Police Department (HPD) revealed the details on March 29 of a man a struck by a train last week. The morning of&nbsp;Monday, March 27, HPD was notified Oluwatomisin Elelu, 35, had died from his injuries. &nbsp;On Friday, March 24 at approximately 4:14 p.m., HPD were dispatched to the railroad tracks just west of 2nd&nbsp;Ave and N. Monroe Street in reference to a pedestrian who had been struck by a train.&nbsp; &nbsp;When officers arrived, they located the male victim with injuries consistent with being struck by a train, lying next to the tracks.&nbsp; &nbsp;EMS arrived shortly after and transported the victim to the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for treatment.&nbsp; The victim was subsequently transferred to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.&nbsp; &nbsp;Witnesses and video evidence confirmed that Elelu was walking on the tracks prior to being stuck.&nbsp; The trainmaster observed Elelu and attempted to stop, but the train could not be stopped in time.&nbsp; &nbsp;HPD stated no foul play is suspected.&nbsp; &nbsp;The accident is still under investigation by the Hutchinson Police Department as well as investigators with the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad.&nbsp;The Hutchinson police log has a trespassing case number filed by BNSF Railroad Employees on March 24 at 4:16 p.m. in the 300 block of West 2nd Avenue. The log states that a person was injured, but did not give Elelu’s&nbsp;name.&nbsp;Earlier this week, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/6a7740ec-b6a3-4af8-a69b-a59b94a26be3" target="_blank">the Noel Lodge homeless shelter had been inquiring about Elelu’s condition. They also have his belongings.</a> &nbsp;HPD is asking anyone who has information on this case or any criminal activity to call Crime Stoppers of Reno County at 1-800-222-TIPS, the Hutchinson Police Department at 620-694-2834, or to use the&nbsp;P3Tips smartphone App.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Homeless man died as a result of train accident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Recreation Commission announced on March 29, they have hired Jacelyn Chambers as the new Arts &amp; Culture Coordinator. Chambers will begin this role on the Hutch Rec leadership team on April 17.

At Hutch Rec, Chambers will be responsible in organizing and managing arts, humanities, and cultural programs and events for Hutchinson and Reno County residents, as well as overseeing the Foxtrot Studio operations and assisting in community events, including Third Thursday.

“I look forward to meeting new creative people and continuing to work with many groups in our community to integrate the arts into our educational and recreational activities in engaging and invigorating ways,” Chambers said. “I want to encourage and fuel peoples’ fiery passions in our community, as well as help connect people to the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to succeed in their artistic pursuits.”

Chambers comes to Hutch Rec after working at the Hutchinson Art Center for the past eight years, including her most recent role there as executive director. She is a Hutchinson native and in 2017 graduated from Hutchinson Community College with an associate’s degree in art. 

As a student, Chambers said she “had the privilege of learning from an inspiring group of artists, arts advocates, and knowledgeable community ambassadors who helped me develop a strong passion for contributing to my local community as much as possible.”

When she is not working on an artistic passion project, Chambers can be found playing tabletop games, video games, and board games with friends and family, as well as experimenting with recipes or researching interior design tips and tricks for her home. She resides in Hutchinson with her partner and five rescue cats.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670462885414.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Recreation Commission announced on March 29, they have hired Jacelyn Chambers as the new Arts &amp; Culture Coordinator. Chambers will begin this role on the Hutch Rec leadership team on April 17.At Hutch Rec, Chambers will be responsible in organizing and managing arts, humanities, and cultural programs and events for Hutchinson and Reno County residents, as well as overseeing the Foxtrot Studio operations and assisting in community events, including Third Thursday.“I look forward to meeting new creative people and continuing to work with many groups in our community to integrate the arts into our educational and recreational activities in engaging and invigorating ways,” Chambers said. “I want to encourage and fuel peoples’ fiery passions in our community, as well as help connect people to the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to succeed in their artistic pursuits.”Chambers comes to Hutch Rec after working at the Hutchinson Art Center for the past eight years, including her most recent role there as executive director. She is a Hutchinson native and in 2017 graduated from Hutchinson Community College with an associate’s degree in art. As a student, Chambers said she “had the privilege of learning from an inspiring group of artists, arts advocates, and knowledgeable community ambassadors who helped me develop a strong passion for contributing to my local community as much as possible.”When she is not working on an artistic passion project, Chambers can be found playing tabletop games, video games, and board games with friends and family, as well as experimenting with recipes or researching interior design tips and tricks for her home. She resides in Hutchinson with her partner and five rescue cats.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Jacelyn Chambers new Hutch Rec Arts & Culture Coordinator

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson community is responding after&nbsp;the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/28dff8ea-fcb3-4ccb-b3a2-5b8fdc415ecf" target="_blank">tragic death of a woman walking from the Reno County Jail on March 23</a>&nbsp;sparked&nbsp;outrage on the safety concerns of people walking from the jail back into town during the night. &nbsp;

The Kansas Recovery Network has formed a partnership with Axel’s Taxi to drive released people from the jail back to where they need to go at no cost to them. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680112396568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JUDD WEIL&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;The Hutchinson community is responding after&nbsp;the <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/28dff8ea-fcb3-4ccb-b3a2-5b8fdc415ecf" target="_blank">tragic death of a woman walking from the Reno County Jail on March 23</a>&nbsp;sparked&nbsp;outrage on the safety concerns of people walking from the jail back into town during the night. &nbsp;The Kansas Recovery Network has formed a partnership with Axel’s Taxi to drive released people from the jail back to where they need to go at no cost to them. &nbsp;The initiative is called the Nikia Project, named after Nikia F. Thomas, who was killed after a single-vehicle accident when she was walking at night on South Severance in Hutchinson from the Reno County Jail. &nbsp;“From the jail to the next intersection headed back into town, walking north like she [Nikia F. Thomas] was, is almost a full mile and the speed out there I’m pretty sure is 50 miles an hour,” Jacci Espinosa, Kansas Recovery Network founding member and treasurer,&nbsp;said. “There are no street lights and there are no sidewalks out there. It is dark and it is dangerous.” &nbsp;Nikia F. Thomas was struck by a car and transported to Ascension Via Christi where she later died from her injuries. &nbsp;Espinosa said that since Reno County Jail was moved to its current location eight years ago, she has heard about quite a few close calls out there.&nbsp;Espinosa said it is about a 20 minute walk from the jail to the nearest intersection. &nbsp;“That gives you an idea of how long people are on just that pure dark stretch of road.” &nbsp;The Nikia Project is addressing the dangers to people released from Reno County Jail at night to&nbsp;protect drivers and pedestrians from incidents like the one that killed Nikia F. Thomas. &nbsp;“The Kansas Recovery Network is a harm reduction coalition, actually the first one that's been organized in the state, so anytime that we see any type of harm in the community, we always try to think of a solution to that harm,” Espinosa said. “This also falls into that because at the jail they just release people all the time.” &nbsp;According to Espinosa, released people cannot use the jail phone on their way out. She added that&nbsp;more than likely if someone had a phone on their person, it was returned dead. &nbsp;“There's just not any resources to even attempt to get a call unless you manage to get someone to come bond you out,” Espinosa said. &nbsp;Espinosa continued, “in her [Nikia F. Thomas] specific instance, she was there on a misdemeanor charge, so it's very likely, I don't know the details of how she was released and I don't actually know her, but it appears from my experience with the jail that she probably just bonded herself out because it was a very low-level crime.” &nbsp;Wanting to put together a solution, Espinosa said she reached out to Axel’s Taxi. &nbsp;“I was trying to think of a way to have an immediate solution instead of just complaining about it on Facebook, so I reached out to the owner of Axel’s Taxi,” Espinosa said. &nbsp;In order to keep up with the cost of the Nikia Project so that Axel’s Taxi can continue providing rides, the Kansas Recovery Network has set up a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/g6p39-the-nikia-project?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&amp;utm_content=undefined&amp;utm_medium=copy_link_all&amp;utm_source=customer&amp;utm_term=undefined" target="_blank">GoFundMe</a>. &nbsp;The Kansas Recovery Network, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is committed&nbsp;to holding these restricted donated funds. Any money donated to the Nikia Project will only be used for the Nikia Project. Funds will be used for things like providing gasoline and keeping up with wear and tear. &nbsp;“The owner of Axel’s Taxi, his name is Nick, has pledged to match donations to the project up to $1,000,” Espinosa said. &nbsp;Additionally, any donations received over the requested amount will be donated to Nikia F. Thomas's family.&nbsp;&nbsp;Espinosa said she will be putting out flyers for the Nikia Project’s services so that people released from the jail know who to contact and how to reach them for rides. &nbsp;Espinosa also wants&nbsp;to see action from the City of Hutchinson and Reno County governments. &nbsp;“I really feel like it's not an overreach to have street lights out there,” Espinosa said. “I feel like they don’t need to own the land to do that.”&nbsp;“They have built other things on the other side of the street from where the jail is. They built the animal shelter out there and there's a dog park out there so&nbsp;there's obviously a way to do stuff to that street.” &nbsp;Espinosa’s other hope for the Nikia Project, other than keeping people released from the Reno County Jail safe, is to remind people that they do not need to wait for the government to come up with a solution, and that people can take care of each other. &nbsp;The Nikia Project has already reached Kansas legislators, gaining the attention of State Representative for the 102nd House District of Kansas Jason Probst. He commented about the project on Facebook."One of the things I really like about Hutchinson is the action people will immediately take to fix a problem and right a wrong," Probst said. "In this case, a group has arranged for a local taxi service to pick up those released from jail after dark, with the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasRecoveryNetwork?__cft__[0]=AZUPg1TBQ9pwZGoY5TlyAm7VZQy540Wt59PhS9CR5Cxfbvs5IVPNXV6lOXVuQIJboGR9HES5ID3Wz0w5qYpahvpjDQM6LZuatWaAgB963x7f6DE2pEZGldukRIYOJSxdKr066UjVDahYswNtsEPcNsoS0U7NXKv95gHDEkoMoTf3aQ&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Recovery Network</a> paying the cab fare."&nbsp; &nbsp;In the last 15 hours since being up and since the posting of this article, the Nikia Project GoFundMe has raised over $650 of their current $2,500 goal.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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