<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626269696039.jpeg" alt="Bryan K. Schulz - Kansas State Fair&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Bryan K. Schulz - Kansas State Fair&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Bryan Shulz - Kansas State Fair" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=dghcp-187333d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>chulz&nbsp;

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Bryan Schulz, Kansas State Fair 

There are a few economists that thinks the U.S. is already in a trade war.&nbsp; But the United States had a record high trade deficit last year because of all of the imports into our country.&nbsp; 

The President is trying to balance trade, but these same economists think the president’s strategy of using tariffs won't do any good.&nbsp; 

However, one economist wasn’t quite as certain, saying that for it to be beneficial, tariffs depend on being short-lived and resulting in trade initiatives with market access or purchase commitments. 

Some of the tariffs proposed by President Trump went into effect last week.

John's Ag Minute is in the player below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738938711482.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>There are a few economists that thinks the U.S. is already in a trade war.&nbsp; But the United States had a record high trade deficit last year because of all of the imports into our country.&nbsp; The President is trying to balance trade, but these same economists think the president’s strategy of using tariffs won't do any good.&nbsp; However, one economist wasn’t quite as certain, saying that for it to be beneficial, tariffs depend on being short-lived and resulting in trade initiatives with market access or purchase commitments. Some of the tariffs proposed by President Trump went into effect last week.John's Ag Minute is in the player below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Ag Minute April 7, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=st9ww-1873037-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Ag Minute:  US trade war

Governor Laura Kelly announced in a press release on Friday that she has signed off on seven additional bills this week that will become new laws. These include the following:

• Substitute for Senate Bill 67 – authorizes certified registered nurse anesthetists to prescribe, procure and administer drugs consistent with registered nurse anesthetist’s education and qualifications.

•Senate Bill 89 – authorizes the Kansas Department of Agriculture to assess a participant fee for poultry producers that wish to voluntarily participate in the National Poultry Improvement Plan, a state-federal cooperative testing and certification program that seeks to eradicate disease in the poultry industry.

• Senate Bill 97 – requires vehicle dealers to apply for a dealer inventory-only title for certain used non-highway vehicles that a vehicle dealer obtains.

• Substitute for House Bill 2152 – shifts Kansas’ investment strategy for public funds to encourage those funds be deposited in Kansas financial institutions. This change will help ensure taxpayer dollars are invested in local communities, increase economic activity in the state and give Kansans access to additional capital to finance investments in their homes, businesses or communities, according to the Office of the Governor.

• House Bill 2359 – enacts the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act and the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship and other Protective Arrangements Act.

• House Bill 2338 – authorizes the Kansas Board of Cosmetology to issue temporary location and temporary guest artist permits and establishes criteria therefor.

• House Bill 2307 – transfers the prenatal and postnatal diagnosed conditions awareness programs from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities.

“By allowing health care providers to practice the full extent of their qualifications and capabilities, we are expanding opportunities for both providers and patients,” Kelly said when talking about Senate Bill 67. “This legislation will help address our health care workforce shortage and increase access to care.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737028018739.png" alt=" Gov. Laura Kelly delivers the annual State of the State speech Wednesday in the Kansas House. She urged the 2025 Kansas Legislature to invest in K-12 public schools, water resources and early-childhood initiatives. She also warned the Republican-led Legislature to be wary of unsustainable tax reductions. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Laura Kelly delivers the annual State of the State speech Wednesday in the Kansas House. She urged the 2025 Kansas Legislature to invest in K-12 public schools, water resources and early-childhood initiatives. She also warned the Republican-led Legislature to be wary of unsustainable tax reductions. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly announced in a press release on Friday that she has signed off on seven additional bills this week that will become new laws. These include the following: • Substitute for Senate Bill 67 – authorizes certified registered nurse anesthetists to prescribe, procure and administer drugs consistent with registered nurse anesthetist’s education and qualifications. •Senate Bill 89 – authorizes the Kansas Department of Agriculture to assess a participant fee for poultry producers that wish to voluntarily participate in the National Poultry Improvement Plan, a state-federal cooperative testing and certification program that seeks to eradicate disease in the poultry industry.• Senate Bill 97 – requires vehicle dealers to apply for a dealer inventory-only title for certain used non-highway vehicles that a vehicle dealer obtains.• Substitute for House Bill 2152 – shifts Kansas’ investment strategy for public funds to encourage those funds be deposited in Kansas financial institutions. This change will help ensure taxpayer dollars are invested in local communities, increase economic activity in the state and give Kansans access to additional capital to finance investments in their homes, businesses or communities, according to the Office of the Governor.• House Bill 2359 – enacts the Uniform Adult Guardianship and Protective Proceedings Jurisdiction Act and the Uniform Guardianship, Conservatorship and other Protective Arrangements Act.• House Bill 2338 – authorizes the Kansas Board of Cosmetology to issue temporary location and temporary guest artist permits and establishes criteria therefor.• House Bill 2307 – transfers the prenatal and postnatal diagnosed conditions awareness programs from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities.“By allowing health care providers to practice the full extent of their qualifications and capabilities, we are expanding opportunities for both providers and patients,” Kelly said when talking about Senate Bill 67. “This legislation will help address our health care workforce shortage and increase access to care.”&nbsp;

Kelly signs seven bills into law

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has confirmed that they are involved in an investigation of a McPherson County Sheriff’s Office deputy.&nbsp;

According to a release by the McPherson County Sheriff’s Office the deputy is on administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigation. They are referring all inquiries into the investigation to the KBI. &nbsp;

Because this is a personnel matter, no information will be released according to the sheriff’s office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720708396392.jpeg" alt="Kansas Bureau of Investigation&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Bureau of Investigation&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has confirmed that they are involved in an investigation of a McPherson County Sheriff’s Office deputy.&nbsp;According to a release by the McPherson County Sheriff’s Office the deputy is on administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigation. They are referring all inquiries into the investigation to the KBI. &nbsp;Because this is a personnel matter, no information will be released according to the sheriff’s office.&nbsp;

KBI investigating McPherson County Sheriff's deputy 

A Wichita man is in custody after a robbery Sunday morning at Newton Walgreens. 

Newton Police were dispatched to Walgreens, 1300 N. Main, at about 11:15 a.m. on a report of an armed robbery. The suspect reportedly indicated he had a firearm, obtained cash from the store and fled south. 

 Responding officers located a man acting suspiciously several blocks away and found clothing and other evidence from the robbery in an alley nearby. 

The man, Joshua Ewing, 37, was arrested and booked into the Harvey County Detention Center. Ewing had been released from the Detention Center earlier the same day. 

No weapon was found. The Harvey County Sheriff’s Office and North Newton Police assisted in the response. The investigation is ongoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743964521271.png" alt="Ewing from a December arrest in Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Ewing from a December arrest in Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>A Wichita man is in custody after a robbery Sunday morning at Newton Walgreens. Newton Police were dispatched to Walgreens, 1300 N. Main, at about 11:15 a.m. on a report of an armed robbery. The suspect reportedly indicated he had a firearm, obtained cash from the store and fled south. Responding officers located a man acting suspiciously several blocks away and found clothing and other evidence from the robbery in an alley nearby. The man, Joshua Ewing, 37, was arrested and booked into the Harvey County Detention Center. Ewing had been released from the Detention Center earlier the same day. No weapon was found. The Harvey County Sheriff’s Office and North Newton Police assisted in the response. The investigation is ongoing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Man arrested after Sunday morning robbery in Newton 

BARTON COUNTY —Two teens were injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Sunday in Barton County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Ford F150 driven by Benjamin Ryan&nbsp;Pflughoeft, 16, Claflin, was westbound on Kansas 4 seven miles east of Hoisington. The pickup crossed the center line, traveled into the eastbound lanes and crossed over into the south ditch. The vehicle continued southwest in the ditch, vaulted the embankment and struck the railroad bridge.

EMS transported&nbsp;Pflughoeft and a passenger Brody Carl&nbsp;Pflughoeft, 13,&nbsp; Claflin to Clara Barton Hospital. They were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1651247007881.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Two teens were injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Sunday in Barton County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1994 Ford F150 driven by Benjamin Ryan&nbsp;Pflughoeft, 16, Claflin, was westbound on Kansas 4 seven miles east of Hoisington. The pickup crossed the center line, traveled into the eastbound lanes and crossed over into the south ditch. The vehicle continued southwest in the ditch, vaulted the embankment and struck the railroad bridge.EMS transported&nbsp;Pflughoeft and a passenger Brody Carl&nbsp;Pflughoeft, 13,&nbsp; Claflin to Clara Barton Hospital. They were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Two Kansas teens hospitalized after violent crash

We hope to find more answers about bird flu that is damaging the poultry and dairy industry.&nbsp; 

That's because researchers from the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine got a grant from USDA to work on avian influenza projects.&nbsp; 

They're focus will be on trying to find out how it's transmitted, and hopefully slow the effects&nbsp;of the disease on dairy herds.&nbsp; 

There have been 68 confirmed cases in humans with one death from the disease.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738938711482.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>We hope to find more answers about bird flu that is damaging the poultry and dairy industry.&nbsp; That's because researchers from the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine got a grant from USDA to work on avian influenza projects.&nbsp; They're focus will be on trying to find out how it's transmitted, and hopefully slow the effects&nbsp;of the disease on dairy herds.&nbsp; There have been 68 confirmed cases in humans with one death from the disease.<div><iframe title="Ag Minute for April 10, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=paspz-1878859-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Ag Minute: Avian flu impacts on agricultural industry

Is this the year for a bin-busting wheat crop? Kansas wheat producers are encouraged to scout their best fields for entries in the 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest. Now in its 10th year, the National Wheat Foundation’s contest offers producers a chance to win prizes and learn from other producers across the country how to maximize their management to improve yields and quality.&nbsp;

“The goal of the National Wheat Yield Contest is to recognize the best management practices that help growers achieve high yield and high quality harvests,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat Vice President of Research and Operations. “With the addition of the pilot digital yield category, Kansas wheat producers have another way to demonstrate their ability to adopt and utilize cutting-edge technology, showcasing how innovation can drive both yield and quality advancements in our industry.”&nbsp;

The contest includes four main categories: dryland winter wheat, irrigated winter wheat, dryland spring wheat and irrigated spring wheat. Contest fields must be at least five continuous acres, planted with professionally produced, certified, branded, newly purchased wheat seed. All contestants must retain a 10-pound bag of grain for shipment and quality testing. If an entry places nationally, that sample will be milled, baked and evaluated by a panel of industry experts.&nbsp;

The top three yield entries in each category by state will be recognized. National winners will be recognized and awarded with a cash award, along with travel and registration expenses to attend the 2026 Commodity Classic in February in San Antonio, Texas. Top industry-desired quality will be recognized with an additional cash reward.&nbsp;

A new highlight for 2025 is the expansion of a Digital Yield plot category, which is open to Kansas producers who raise dryland winter wheat. Producers can enter the category using digital technologies such as John Deere Operations Center, Climate FieldView or Bushel, alongside calibrated grain cart scale data, to submit yields from a designated 20-acre area. Producers can enter up to three fields in this category.&nbsp;

“We are so pleased with the growth of the contest and look forward to continuing to share the lessons learned as farmers work to produce high-yielding, high-quality wheat,” said Anne Osborne, NWF yield contest director, in an&nbsp;<a href="https://kswheat.com/blank">article</a>&nbsp;for DTN/Progressive Farmer. “U.S. wheat plays a critical role in the world food supply, and the benefits of having the crop in the rotation cannot be overstated as farmers look to improve their productivity and profitability.”

Growers must submit entries by May 15, 2025, for winter wheat categories and August 1, 2025, for spring wheat categories. Harvest data is due by October 1, 2025. Entries must be completed online at wheatcontest.org. Each entry costs $100, but sponsoring partners have entry fee vouchers available.&nbsp;

Partnering sponsors for the 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest include: John Deere, WestBred, BASF, U.S. Wheat Associates, Croplan, Limagrain Cereal Seeds, The McGregor Co., AgXplore, Eastman, Ardent Mills, AgriMaxx, Bushel, DynaGro Seed, Kentucky Small Grain Growers Association, Mennel, North Carolina Small Grain Growers Association, Ohio Corn &amp; Wheat, PlainsGold, Siemer Milling Co., UPL, Corteva Agriscience, Climate FieldView, Grain Craft, Idaho Wheat, Kansas Wheat, Michigan Wheat Program, Miller Milling, Montana Grain Growers Association, North Dakota Mill &amp; Elevator, and the Northern Crops Institute. DTN/Progressive Farmer is the official media outlet of the competition.

All entrants must be a member of a state wheat grower association — like the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers — or the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG).&nbsp;

Find more information or enter the 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wheatcontest.org/">wheatcontest.org</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699371971135.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Is this the year for a bin-busting wheat crop? Kansas wheat producers are encouraged to scout their best fields for entries in the 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest. Now in its 10th year, the National Wheat Foundation’s contest offers producers a chance to win prizes and learn from other producers across the country how to maximize their management to improve yields and quality.&nbsp;“The goal of the National Wheat Yield Contest is to recognize the best management practices that help growers achieve high yield and high quality harvests,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat Vice President of Research and Operations. “With the addition of the pilot digital yield category, Kansas wheat producers have another way to demonstrate their ability to adopt and utilize cutting-edge technology, showcasing how innovation can drive both yield and quality advancements in our industry.”&nbsp;The contest includes four main categories: dryland winter wheat, irrigated winter wheat, dryland spring wheat and irrigated spring wheat. Contest fields must be at least five continuous acres, planted with professionally produced, certified, branded, newly purchased wheat seed. All contestants must retain a 10-pound bag of grain for shipment and quality testing. If an entry places nationally, that sample will be milled, baked and evaluated by a panel of industry experts.&nbsp;The top three yield entries in each category by state will be recognized. National winners will be recognized and awarded with a cash award, along with travel and registration expenses to attend the 2026 Commodity Classic in February in San Antonio, Texas. Top industry-desired quality will be recognized with an additional cash reward.&nbsp;A new highlight for 2025 is the expansion of a Digital Yield plot category, which is open to Kansas producers who raise dryland winter wheat. Producers can enter the category using digital technologies such as John Deere Operations Center, Climate FieldView or Bushel, alongside calibrated grain cart scale data, to submit yields from a designated 20-acre area. Producers can enter up to three fields in this category.&nbsp;“We are so pleased with the growth of the contest and look forward to continuing to share the lessons learned as farmers work to produce high-yielding, high-quality wheat,” said Anne Osborne, NWF yield contest director, in an&nbsp;<a href="https://kswheat.com/blank">article</a>&nbsp;for DTN/Progressive Farmer. “U.S. wheat plays a critical role in the world food supply, and the benefits of having the crop in the rotation cannot be overstated as farmers look to improve their productivity and profitability.”Growers must submit entries by May 15, 2025, for winter wheat categories and August 1, 2025, for spring wheat categories. Harvest data is due by October 1, 2025. Entries must be completed online at wheatcontest.org. Each entry costs $100, but sponsoring partners have entry fee vouchers available.&nbsp;Partnering sponsors for the 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest include: John Deere, WestBred, BASF, U.S. Wheat Associates, Croplan, Limagrain Cereal Seeds, The McGregor Co., AgXplore, Eastman, Ardent Mills, AgriMaxx, Bushel, DynaGro Seed, Kentucky Small Grain Growers Association, Mennel, North Carolina Small Grain Growers Association, Ohio Corn &amp; Wheat, PlainsGold, Siemer Milling Co., UPL, Corteva Agriscience, Climate FieldView, Grain Craft, Idaho Wheat, Kansas Wheat, Michigan Wheat Program, Miller Milling, Montana Grain Growers Association, North Dakota Mill &amp; Elevator, and the Northern Crops Institute. DTN/Progressive Farmer is the official media outlet of the competition.All entrants must be a member of a state wheat grower association — like the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers — or the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG).&nbsp;Find more information or enter the 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wheatcontest.org/">wheatcontest.org</a>.&nbsp;

Entries open for 2025 National Wheat Yield Contest

 HUTCHINSON — Two leaders of aerospace and innovations in education, the Cosmosphere and Kansas State University Salina, are announcing a historic strategic partnership that will elevate aerospace education and research for Kansas youth and beyond.

 The partnership between the Cosmosphere and K-State Salina will feature the exploration, development and implementation of innovative solutions, research and education initiatives to foster advancements in aerospace education.

 This collaboration will elevate K-12 education and outreach for Kansas and the country. The two organizations will develop programs, workshops and public outreach initiatives focused on aerospace and STEM education. 

This will include new summer camps and collaborative youth outreach programs; implementation of virtual reality, or VR, and augmented reality, or AR, experiences; and the development of new curriculums offered through both organizations.

 “As a leading center for informal STEAM education, the Cosmosphere is excited to partner with K-State Salina,” said Jim Remar, Cosmosphere CEO. “This partnership will create new opportunities to inspire students in the state and region about fields in aerospace. This partnership will help provide students with actionable paths to achieve their newly sparked dreams.”

 As a part of the collaboration, the Cosmosphere will enhance K-State Salina’s knowledge of K-12 instruction and provide training relevant education practices, provide guidance and support to the campus in the development of K-12 camps and outreach programs, facilitate networking opportunities and partnerships with K-12 partners, advise and collaborate on marketing opportunities to further the campus’s long-term vision as a one of a kind destination campus.

 “K-State Salina is incredibly proud to call the Cosmosphere a strategic partner,” Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean, said. “For the last 60 years, both of our organizations have been leading aerospace education providers in Kansas. This partnership strengthens both of our institutions' missions and will elevate the aerospace education and outreach experience for citizens across the state and country. We are proud to partner with the Cosmosphere to excite and engage the next generation of aerospace professionals.”

 As a leading industry in Kansas with a need for further workforce development, this partnership between the Cosmosphere and K-State Salina will combine the technological and aerospace education expertise of both the museum and campus and build that into an e ort that grows opportunities in the aerospace industry.

 Those wanting to learn more about the strategic partnership between K-State Salina and the Cosmosphere can contact K-State Salina at salinadeansoffice@k-state.edu

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743820789689.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> HUTCHINSON — Two leaders of aerospace and innovations in education, the Cosmosphere and Kansas State University Salina, are announcing a historic strategic partnership that will elevate aerospace education and research for Kansas youth and beyond. The partnership between the Cosmosphere and K-State Salina will feature the exploration, development and implementation of innovative solutions, research and education initiatives to foster advancements in aerospace education.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743821093016.jpeg" alt="Pictured from left to right: Claire Ludes, Cosmosphere senior vice president of development and strategic relationships, Jim Remar, Cosmosphere president and CEO, Mike Zamrzla, deputy state director from the office of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean, and Kirsten Regan, K-State Salina executive director of strategic initiatives. (courtesy K-State Salina)&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left to right: Claire Ludes, Cosmosphere senior vice president of development and strategic relationships, Jim Remar, Cosmosphere president and CEO, Mike Zamrzla, deputy state director from the office of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean, and Kirsten Regan, K-State Salina executive director of strategic initiatives. (courtesy K-State Salina)&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure> This collaboration will elevate K-12 education and outreach for Kansas and the country. The two organizations will develop programs, workshops and public outreach initiatives focused on aerospace and STEM education. This will include new summer camps and collaborative youth outreach programs; implementation of virtual reality, or VR, and augmented reality, or AR, experiences; and the development of new curriculums offered through both organizations. “As a leading center for informal STEAM education, the Cosmosphere is excited to partner with K-State Salina,” said Jim Remar, Cosmosphere CEO. “This partnership will create new opportunities to inspire students in the state and region about fields in aerospace. This partnership will help provide students with actionable paths to achieve their newly sparked dreams.” As a part of the collaboration, the Cosmosphere will enhance K-State Salina’s knowledge of K-12 instruction and provide training relevant education practices, provide guidance and support to the campus in the development of K-12 camps and outreach programs, facilitate networking opportunities and partnerships with K-12 partners, advise and collaborate on marketing opportunities to further the campus’s long-term vision as a one of a kind destination campus. “K-State Salina is incredibly proud to call the Cosmosphere a strategic partner,” Alysia Starkey, K-State Salina CEO and dean, said. “For the last 60 years, both of our organizations have been leading aerospace education providers in Kansas. This partnership strengthens both of our institutions' missions and will elevate the aerospace education and outreach experience for citizens across the state and country. We are proud to partner with the Cosmosphere to excite and engage the next generation of aerospace professionals.” As a leading industry in Kansas with a need for further workforce development, this partnership between the Cosmosphere and K-State Salina will combine the technological and aerospace education expertise of both the museum and campus and build that into an e ort that grows opportunities in the aerospace industry. Those wanting to learn more about the strategic partnership between K-State Salina and the Cosmosphere can contact K-State Salina at salinadeansoffice@k-state.edu

Cosmosphere, K-State Salina announce STEM partnership 

The Hutchinson Fire Department (HFD) battled a garage fire in east Hutchinson on Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

According to a release from HFD they were called to 1500 block of east Fourth Avenue for a structure fire.&nbsp; Initial units on the scene found a detached garage that was heavily involved with fire.&nbsp;

Units made a quick aggressive attack on the structure and extinguished the fire.&nbsp; No injuries were reported.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743819411912.jpeg" alt="photo courtesy Hutchinson Fire Department " />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Hutchinson Fire Department </figcaption>
 </figure>The Hutchinson Fire Department (HFD) battled a garage fire in east Hutchinson on Friday afternoon.&nbsp;According to a release from HFD they were called to 1500 block of east Fourth Avenue for a structure fire.&nbsp; Initial units on the scene found a detached garage that was heavily involved with fire.&nbsp;Units made a quick aggressive attack on the structure and extinguished the fire.&nbsp; No injuries were reported.&nbsp;

HFD fights garage fire on Friday 

The Kingman County Humane Society will be having a pet adoption event at the Petco in Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They will be bringing Molly and Shaka who are two adorable pups looking for their forever homes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shaka is a unique and lovable Pitbull with a heart as big as his personality.&nbsp;

 He may only have one ear, but that just adds to his charm and character. And he is a character! This resilient boy has overcome a lot and is now looking for his forever home where he can give all the love and loyalty that Pitbull's are known for.

Molly has stubby little legs, stubby little tail....must be a Corgi. 

Probably a mix. A mix of cuteness, a mix of playfulness, a mix of friendliness, a mix of funness and maybe just a little bit of orneriness too. 

She's a perfect combination and is going to be a great fit for some lucky family.&nbsp;

If you have questions about Shaka or Molly you can contact the Kingman County Humane Society at 316-542-1812

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743798339502.png" alt="Kingman County Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Kingman County Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kingman County Humane Society will be having a pet adoption event at the Petco in Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743798189984.jpeg" alt="Kingman County Humane Society Petco Adoption Event" />
 <figcaption>Kingman County Humane Society Petco Adoption Event</figcaption>
 </figure>They will be bringing Molly and Shaka who are two adorable pups looking for their forever homes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shaka is a unique and lovable Pitbull with a heart as big as his personality.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743798799865.png" alt="Shaka - Kingman County Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Shaka - Kingman County Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure> He may only have one ear, but that just adds to his charm and character. And he is a character! This resilient boy has overcome a lot and is now looking for his forever home where he can give all the love and loyalty that Pitbull's are known for.Molly has stubby little legs, stubby little tail....must be a Corgi. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743798859183.jpeg" alt="Molly - Kingman County Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Molly - Kingman County Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>Probably a mix. A mix of cuteness, a mix of playfulness, a mix of friendliness, a mix of funness and maybe just a little bit of orneriness too. She's a perfect combination and is going to be a great fit for some lucky family.&nbsp;If you have questions about Shaka or Molly you can contact the Kingman County Humane Society at 316-542-1812

Pet adoption event set for Saturday 

KANSAS STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICE&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – A note to all ambitious gardeners who started vegetable transplants indoors over the winter months: Your time has come.

Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini says many transplants are likely ready for the garden, but before removing them from a more protected environment, they first need to acclimate.

“This process is called hardening off,” Domenghini said.

Two weeks before the transplant date, decrease the amount of water that the seedlings are given, she said. Gradually increase their exposure to the sun and wind, but avoid damaging winds, rain and temperatures.

When they’re ready for the garden, prepare the soil by breaking up hardened clots. Don’t work the soil when wet.

“Water the transplants just before transplanting,” Domenghini said. “Dig the hole for each plant slightly deeper and wider than the container it’s in. Position the plant in the hole and backfill to cover the entire root ball. Press the soil surface firmly around the stem of the plant. Starter fertilizer can be used at planting.”

The busy work is beginning for gardeners as temperatures turn mostly warm around Kansas, Domenghini said. In alphabetical order, she provides a listing of common garden foods that should be planted soon – if not already:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743797763941.jpeg" alt="Transplants - K-State Research and Extension " />
 <figcaption>Transplants - K-State Research and Extension </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICE&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – A note to all ambitious gardeners who started vegetable transplants indoors over the winter months: Your time has come.Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini says many transplants are likely ready for the garden, but before removing them from a more protected environment, they first need to acclimate.“This process is called hardening off,” Domenghini said.Two weeks before the transplant date, decrease the amount of water that the seedlings are given, she said. Gradually increase their exposure to the sun and wind, but avoid damaging winds, rain and temperatures.When they’re ready for the garden, prepare the soil by breaking up hardened clots. Don’t work the soil when wet.“Water the transplants just before transplanting,” Domenghini said. “Dig the hole for each plant slightly deeper and wider than the container it’s in. Position the plant in the hole and backfill to cover the entire root ball. Press the soil surface firmly around the stem of the plant. Starter fertilizer can be used at planting.”Gardening calendarThe busy work is beginning for gardeners as temperatures turn mostly warm around Kansas, Domenghini said. In alphabetical order, she provides a listing of common garden foods that should be planted soon – if not already:<ul>
 <li>Asparagus (crowns) – mid-March to mid-April.</li><li>Beets (seed) – late March to early April.</li><li>Bok choy (seed/transplant) – late March to early April.</li><li>Broccoli (transplant) – late March to early April.</li><li>Cabbage (transplant) – late March to early April.</li><li>Carrots (seed) -- late March to early April.</li><li>Cauliflower (transplant) -- late March to early April.</li><li>Chicories (seed/transplant) -- late March to early April.</li><li>Collards (seed/transplant) -- late March to early April.</li><li>Kale (seed/transplant) – mid-March.</li><li>Fennel (seed) – mid-March to early April.</li><li>Kohlrabi (seed) – mid-March to early April.</li><li>Lettuce (seed) – mid-March to early April.</li><li>Leeks (transplant) – mid-March.</li><li>Mustard (seed) – late March to early April.</li><li>Onion (sets/plants) – mid- to late March.</li><li>Parsnips (seed) – mid-March to early April.</li><li>Peas (seed) – mid-March.</li><li>Potatoes (seed) – mid-March to early April.</li><li>Radish (seed) – mid- to late March.</li><li>Rhubarb (crowns) – March to April.</li><li>Rutabaga (seed) – mid- to late March.</li><li>Spinach (seed) – mid- to late March.</li><li>Swiss chard (seed/transplant) – late March to early April.</li><li>Turnip (seed) – mid- to late March.</li>
 </ul>

Transplants are ready for the garden

Kid Krossing Afterschool Program – Director Position

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063555729302">CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE KID KROSSING FB PAGE!</a>

Kid Krossing Afterschool Program is seeking a director for the 2025-26 school year! This Christian-based program is located in the Nickerson United Methodist Church but operates independently of the church.

Follows the USD 309 school calendar Hours: 2-6 p.m. on school days

High school diploma. 12 semester hours in childhood development or program administration. 6 months teaching experience OR 1 year teaching in a licensed childhood center. CPR and first aid certification. Background check &amp; references required. Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance.

Angie Schultz 📧 <a href="mailto:ajschultzcsr@yahoo.com">ajschultzcsr@yahoo.com</a> 📱 (620) 422-3351 📍 8200 Riverton Rd, Nickerson, KS 67561

Come make a difference in the lives of children! Apply today!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743792785619.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kid Krossing Afterschool Program – Director Position<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063555729302">CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE KID KROSSING FB PAGE!</a>📍 Nickerson, KSKid Krossing Afterschool Program is seeking a director for the 2025-26 school year! This Christian-based program is located in the Nickerson United Methodist Church but operates independently of the church.🔹 Position Details:Follows the USD 309 school calendar Hours: 2-6 p.m. on school days 🔹 Requirements:High school diploma. 12 semester hours in childhood development or program administration. 6 months teaching experience OR 1 year teaching in a licensed childhood center. CPR and first aid certification. Background check &amp; references required. Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance.📞 Contact:Angie Schultz 📧 <a href="mailto:ajschultzcsr@yahoo.com">ajschultzcsr@yahoo.com</a> 📱 (620) 422-3351 📍 8200 Riverton Rd, Nickerson, KS 67561Come make a difference in the lives of children! Apply today!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743793056659.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>

Adopt a Furry Friend: Blueberries 

Yesterday was the big annual March USDA Prospective Planting acreage report of the year.&nbsp; This is a much-anticipated report every year, and there has been a lot of discussion about the price of soybeans, exports, South American crops, and if the scale would tilt toward corn.&nbsp; 

Well, going into the report, there was talk of a bigger corn crop, and it did confirm that American farmers plan to plant a lot more this year than they did last year.&nbsp; That number is 95.3 million acres of corn at an average 181 bushel per acre.&nbsp; That is an increase of 5%.&nbsp; 

Some of those acres would come from soybeans.... Down four percent to 83.5 million acres.&nbsp; Some of those acres however could come from cotton.&nbsp; That estimate is for a reduction of twelve percent to just 9.8 million acres of cotton.&nbsp; 

Wheat acres also fell, but only two percent, and that leaves it at forty five million.&nbsp; The corn acreage came in above the average trade guess, which was 94.361 million, but the USDA survey results were below the soybean pre-report estimates, which was 83.76 million acres.&nbsp; 

Ben Brown, an extension agricultural economist at the University of Missouri , says even though 95.3 million is above the average trade guess, it’s not as high as what some expected.&nbsp; Some say the corn market didn't react nearly as bad as feared, because the majority of traders do not think we can hit a 181 average trend yield.&nbsp;

You can hear John's Ag Minute in the player below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738938711482.jpeg" alt="John Jenkinson" />
 <figcaption>John Jenkinson</figcaption>
 </figure>Yesterday was the big annual March USDA Prospective Planting acreage report of the year.&nbsp; This is a much-anticipated report every year, and there has been a lot of discussion about the price of soybeans, exports, South American crops, and if the scale would tilt toward corn.&nbsp; Well, going into the report, there was talk of a bigger corn crop, and it did confirm that American farmers plan to plant a lot more this year than they did last year.&nbsp; That number is 95.3 million acres of corn at an average 181 bushel per acre.&nbsp; That is an increase of 5%.&nbsp; Some of those acres would come from soybeans.... Down four percent to 83.5 million acres.&nbsp; Some of those acres however could come from cotton.&nbsp; That estimate is for a reduction of twelve percent to just 9.8 million acres of cotton.&nbsp; Wheat acres also fell, but only two percent, and that leaves it at forty five million.&nbsp; The corn acreage came in above the average trade guess, which was 94.361 million, but the USDA survey results were below the soybean pre-report estimates, which was 83.76 million acres.&nbsp; Ben Brown, an extension agricultural economist at the University of Missouri , says even though 95.3 million is above the average trade guess, it’s not as high as what some expected.&nbsp; Some say the corn market didn't react nearly as bad as feared, because the majority of traders do not think we can hit a 181 average trend yield.&nbsp;You can hear John's Ag Minute in the player below.<div><iframe title="Ag Minute for April 4, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=2kfc4-186f949-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Ag Minute: Planting acreage report released 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726164918934.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Fox Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Fox Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Josh Davies - Fox Theatre" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=wnq4r-186f99d-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Josh Davies, Hutchinson Fox Theatre 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715610467880.jpeg" alt="Lacey Mills, right, and Carla Stanfield, left, represented the United Way of Reno County on the KWBW Morning Show on May 13, 2024. Photo by Rob Dreher." />
 <figcaption>Lacey Mills, right, and Carla Stanfield, left, represented the United Way of Reno County on the KWBW Morning Show on May 13, 2024. Photo by Rob Dreher.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Carla Stanfield United Way of Reno County" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=sky7j-186f92f-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Carla Stansfield, United Way of Reno County 

The fifty-first annual&nbsp; Pleasantview Spring Celebration is this Saturday.&nbsp;

The celebration used to be two days, but now it's packed into one day.&nbsp; Things start off with the pancake feed at the Pleasantview Activity Center that starts at 7:30 a.m and goes until 10:30 a.m.

Pleasantview has 22 businesses and all of them will be part of the celebration.&nbsp; Most of the businesses will be open on Saturday, but a few won't, but there will be information about each of the businesses at the pancake feed.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/b5500afd-4499-4943-9e62-401b9bd6bc1a">LINK: 🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Shirley Nisly and Norman Yutzy, Pleasantview Spring Celebration</a>

Other events scheduled for Saturday are the Emergency Vehicle Expo from 9 a.m. to Noon, and the Antique Tractor Show and Pull that starts at 11 a.m.&nbsp; These events are being held at the auction lot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pleasantview started with just three business and has grown to 22. Pleasantview is south of Hutchinson on K-61 highway.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680188997710.jpeg" alt="Pleasantview Photo" />
 <figcaption>Pleasantview Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The fifty-first annual&nbsp; Pleasantview Spring Celebration is this Saturday.&nbsp;The celebration used to be two days, but now it's packed into one day.&nbsp; Things start off with the pancake feed at the Pleasantview Activity Center that starts at 7:30 a.m and goes until 10:30 a.m.Pleasantview has 22 businesses and all of them will be part of the celebration.&nbsp; Most of the businesses will be open on Saturday, but a few won't, but there will be information about each of the businesses at the pancake feed.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/b5500afd-4499-4943-9e62-401b9bd6bc1a">LINK: 🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Shirley Nisly and Norman Yutzy, Pleasantview Spring Celebration</a>Other events scheduled for Saturday are the Emergency Vehicle Expo from 9 a.m. to Noon, and the Antique Tractor Show and Pull that starts at 11 a.m.&nbsp; These events are being held at the auction lot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pleasantview started with just three business and has grown to 22. Pleasantview is south of Hutchinson on K-61 highway.&nbsp;

Pleasantview Spring Celebration this Saturday 

The Youth Philanthropy Council of Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $5,000 in grants to nine organizations at a ceremony in March at the Hutchinson Art Center.

Led by high school students from across Reno County, the Youth Philanthropy Council is a grantmaking program designed to involve area teens in philanthropy: the practice of giving money, time and talents to help make life better for other people. The group began meeting in November to discuss local issues of concern to youth and the community, learn about grantmaking, and present grants to youth-serving organizations.

The grants were awarded from the Richard W. Dillon Memorial Fund for Youth Philanthropy, established by the Dillon family to honor Dick Dillon for his extensive philanthropic work in the community.

The 12 members of the 2024-2025 council are Claudia Taylor and Libby Trumpp, Buhler High School; Gavin Foster and Lucy Steen, Fairfield High School; Kayla Rose, Haven High School; Ellie Foos and Hollyn Neufeldt, Hutchinson High School; Will Barkley and Haley McGill, Nickerson High School; Mary Newboles, Ruby Tovar-Contreras and Sam Vogel, Trinity Catholic High School.

Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson, $500: The grant will help purchase equipment and materials for the club’s Future Welders of Tomorrow program designed to introduce youth to welding and metalworking.

Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson, $600: The funding will purchase equipment for the club’s Lyricism 101 program, focused on empowering middle school students through DJing, music production and lyric writing.

Hutchinson NAACP Youth, $500: The grant will purchase books for a book club established to promote cultural awareness, empathy and literacy among minority youth through the exploration of books centered on diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters, $425: The grant will help purchase supplies, food and beverages for game and craft gatherings between Bigs and Littles.

Nickerson High School-Debate &amp; Forensics, $425: Funding will help offset student costs associated with attending the National Speech and Debate Association national tournament.

Reno County Education Cooperative, $900: The grant will help purchase snacks, equipment, a sign language interpreter and lighting for the Soft Spotlight Theater. The is a project collaboration between Family Community Theatre, Reno County Education Cooperative and Clothed in Compassion to offer a sensory-friendly theater performance designed for children with sensory sensitivities and their families.&nbsp;

Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation, $300: The funds will go toward the purchase a portable gas generator to help amplify sound for the Sky Ryders Drum and Bugle Corps, a summer performance troupe made up of students from across the region.

Spark United Church of the Nazarene, $350: The grant will help purchase cookbooks for Kitchen Hero Academy, a 10-week summer cooking skills program for middle school students.

Trinity Catholic High School, $1,000: Funding will purchase a help guide, board games and snacks for a newly established peer-mentor program called Sources of Strength focused on resilience through student connection and support.

Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, leadership and collaboration to strengthen Reno County. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $104 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743730113191.jpeg" alt=" Members of the 2024-2025 Hutchinson Community Foundation Youth Philanthropy Council are, back row from left, Gavin Foster, Fairfield High School; Sam Vogel, Trinity Catholic High School; Ellie Foos, Hutchinson High School; Libby Trumpp, Buhler High School; Kayla Rose, Haven High School; Hollyn Neufeldt, Hutchinson High School; and Will Barkley, Nickerson High School. Front row from left: Claudia Taylor, Buhler High School; Ruby Tovar-Contreras and Mary Newboles, Trinity Catholic High School; Lucy Steen, Fairfield High School; and Haley McGill, Nickerson High School. [Hutchinson Community Foundation]" />
 <figcaption> Members of the 2024-2025 Hutchinson Community Foundation Youth Philanthropy Council are, back row from left, Gavin Foster, Fairfield High School; Sam Vogel, Trinity Catholic High School; Ellie Foos, Hutchinson High School; Libby Trumpp, Buhler High School; Kayla Rose, Haven High School; Hollyn Neufeldt, Hutchinson High School; and Will Barkley, Nickerson High School. Front row from left: Claudia Taylor, Buhler High School; Ruby Tovar-Contreras and Mary Newboles, Trinity Catholic High School; Lucy Steen, Fairfield High School; and Haley McGill, Nickerson High School. [Hutchinson Community Foundation]</figcaption>
 </figure>The Youth Philanthropy Council of Hutchinson Community Foundation awarded $5,000 in grants to nine organizations at a ceremony in March at the Hutchinson Art Center.Led by high school students from across Reno County, the Youth Philanthropy Council is a grantmaking program designed to involve area teens in philanthropy: the practice of giving money, time and talents to help make life better for other people. The group began meeting in November to discuss local issues of concern to youth and the community, learn about grantmaking, and present grants to youth-serving organizations.The grants were awarded from the Richard W. Dillon Memorial Fund for Youth Philanthropy, established by the Dillon family to honor Dick Dillon for his extensive philanthropic work in the community.The 12 members of the 2024-2025 council are Claudia Taylor and Libby Trumpp, Buhler High School; Gavin Foster and Lucy Steen, Fairfield High School; Kayla Rose, Haven High School; Ellie Foos and Hollyn Neufeldt, Hutchinson High School; Will Barkley and Haley McGill, Nickerson High School; Mary Newboles, Ruby Tovar-Contreras and Sam Vogel, Trinity Catholic High School.The following awards were given:Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson, $500: The grant will help purchase equipment and materials for the club’s Future Welders of Tomorrow program designed to introduce youth to welding and metalworking.Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson, $600: The funding will purchase equipment for the club’s Lyricism 101 program, focused on empowering middle school students through DJing, music production and lyric writing.Hutchinson NAACP Youth, $500: The grant will purchase books for a book club established to promote cultural awareness, empathy and literacy among minority youth through the exploration of books centered on diverse cultures and backgrounds.Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters, $425: The grant will help purchase supplies, food and beverages for game and craft gatherings between Bigs and Littles.Nickerson High School-Debate &amp; Forensics, $425: Funding will help offset student costs associated with attending the National Speech and Debate Association national tournament.Reno County Education Cooperative, $900: The grant will help purchase snacks, equipment, a sign language interpreter and lighting for the Soft Spotlight Theater. The is a project collaboration between Family Community Theatre, Reno County Education Cooperative and Clothed in Compassion to offer a sensory-friendly theater performance designed for children with sensory sensitivities and their families.&nbsp;Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation, $300: The funds will go toward the purchase a portable gas generator to help amplify sound for the Sky Ryders Drum and Bugle Corps, a summer performance troupe made up of students from across the region.Spark United Church of the Nazarene, $350: The grant will help purchase cookbooks for Kitchen Hero Academy, a 10-week summer cooking skills program for middle school students.Trinity Catholic High School, $1,000: Funding will purchase a help guide, board games and snacks for a newly established peer-mentor program called Sources of Strength focused on resilience through student connection and support.Hutchinson Community Foundation’s mission is to inspire philanthropy, leadership and collaboration to strengthen Reno County. Since 1989, the foundation has granted more than $104 million.

Reno County youth award $5,000 in grants

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 will open enrollment for the upcoming school year earlier than usual, Superintendent Cindy Couchman said Wednesday on the BW Morning Show.

“We’re going to change some things this year,” Couchman said. “We usually open enrollment at Buhler schools in July, and we’re going to change that this year for our families. We’re getting ready to push something out about it pretty soon, and we’re actually going to start enrollment in May this year, while we still have kids in the buildings.”

The district is moving up the enrollment timeline to get a better idea of who is returning in the fall.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5579bf75-42aa-4291-ab9f-db6400c0b796">LINK:&nbsp;BW Morning Show Interview: Cindy Couchman USD 313 Superintendent</a>

Couchman said families will enroll in May the same way they have during the summer in past years — with one key difference: no payment will be required at that time.

Instead, in July, the district will send out a link for families to complete the final steps of enrollment. That includes paying enrollment fees, filling out the free and reduced lunch application, and completing the Communities That Care form.

"That's to help us as a school system know how many people we're going to have, get them enrolled, go ahead and assign teachers — all those procedures — and also help us with setting capacity," Couchman said. "And our capacity is going to be set quite a bit higher this year, which means we can take more students."

She encouraged families interested in enrolling their student in Buhler schools — especially those outside district boundaries — to complete the proper forms in order to be entered into the state-mandated lottery.

“If you're a homeschool student, an out-of-district student, or your student is moving into the area, we are setting our capacity high enough that we think we’re going to be able to take more students this year through that process,” Couchman said. “If you're an out-of-district student, a homeschool student, or a student who has been in private school and you’re not currently living within district boundaries, there is a new process.”

She explained that families must fill out a form indicating they want to attend Buhler schools. The state legislature established the open enrollment lottery process last session. Last year was the district’s first time using the system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696683579907.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 will open enrollment for the upcoming school year earlier than usual, Superintendent Cindy Couchman said Wednesday on the BW Morning Show.“We’re going to change some things this year,” Couchman said. “We usually open enrollment at Buhler schools in July, and we’re going to change that this year for our families. We’re getting ready to push something out about it pretty soon, and we’re actually going to start enrollment in May this year, while we still have kids in the buildings.”The district is moving up the enrollment timeline to get a better idea of who is returning in the fall.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5579bf75-42aa-4291-ab9f-db6400c0b796">LINK:&nbsp;BW Morning Show Interview: Cindy Couchman USD 313 Superintendent</a>Couchman said families will enroll in May the same way they have during the summer in past years — with one key difference: no payment will be required at that time.Instead, in July, the district will send out a link for families to complete the final steps of enrollment. That includes paying enrollment fees, filling out the free and reduced lunch application, and completing the Communities That Care form."That's to help us as a school system know how many people we're going to have, get them enrolled, go ahead and assign teachers — all those procedures — and also help us with setting capacity," Couchman said. "And our capacity is going to be set quite a bit higher this year, which means we can take more students."She encouraged families interested in enrolling their student in Buhler schools — especially those outside district boundaries — to complete the proper forms in order to be entered into the state-mandated lottery.“If you're a homeschool student, an out-of-district student, or your student is moving into the area, we are setting our capacity high enough that we think we’re going to be able to take more students this year through that process,” Couchman said. “If you're an out-of-district student, a homeschool student, or a student who has been in private school and you’re not currently living within district boundaries, there is a new process.”She explained that families must fill out a form indicating they want to attend Buhler schools. The state legislature established the open enrollment lottery process last session. Last year was the district’s first time using the system.

USD 313 announces changes to their enrollment process

ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas&nbsp;

As a first generation college student who is now a professor, I know firsthand the vital role libraries play in providing access to knowledge and opportunity, especially for those from underserved backgrounds.

At my university, nearly half of the student population is also first-generation, and like me, many have relied on libraries as gateways to education, technology, and personal growth. Though I didn’t grow up in the Sunflower State, my students have shown me how deeply public libraries support communities across Kansas, providing essential resources that foster learning, connection, and a brighter future.

In mid-March President Trump issued an executive order to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to the fullest extent possible — only Congress can fully close the IMLS as it was established by a Congressional act in 1996 — and directs the Office of Management and Budget to reject funding requests from IMLS. It is expected that Trump’s future budget requests will propose to eliminate the IMLS altogether.

This executive order puts essential library resources at risk, especially in rural and low-income communities. IMLS is the primary source of federal funding for libraries across the country and provides approximately $2.1 million in funding to Kansas public libraries annually.

With all 367 public libraries across Kansas relying on this funding, these cuts will have a widespread financial impact and deepen educational disparities across the state.

According to Ray Walling, State Librarian at the State Library of Kansas, the provided funding is “integral to the operations of all Kansas libraries. Our statewide… services could not be offered at current levels without this support.”

Some examples of how the State Library of Kansas uses these funds includes: to support the Summer Reading Program that provides summer reading materials to Kansas libraries, provide access to books for people with disabilities (e.g. Talking Books program, braille and large print books), statewide resource sharing through the Kansas Library Catalog (e.g. interlibrary loan), provide access to state documents via the Kansas Government Information Online Library, statewide access to digital collections of ebooks and audiobooks (e.g. Libby app), and the Kansas Notable Books program that recognizes outstanding titles either written by Kansans or about a Kansas-related topic.

In the past two years, IMLS also provided $10,000 to the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation to expand the tribe’s reference library for those learning and studying the Potawatomi language and culture; just over $28,000 to Exploration Place in Wichita to provide professional development that led to expansion of the museum’s digital services, allowing them to reach every Kansas county and school district; nearly $50,000 to Independence Community College

to create a publicly accessible online catalog featuring significant playwrights, performing artists, and original manuscripts; and $71,000 to the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska for the purpose of identifying and documenting culturally significant artifacts and artwork, including creating a virtual repository of photographs and digitized art.

Kansas ranks second in the nation for per capita library visits, reflecting the deep value Kansans place on these essential community hubs. With such high engagement, it’s clear that libraries are not only centers of learning and opportunity but also key components of daily life for Kansans.

Dismantling IMLS isn’t just a budget decision — it’s a decision that will take books out of children’s hands, limit job-seekers' access to technology, and erase vital cultural and historical resources.

Public libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they are community hubs that empower Kansans to learn, grow, and connect.

As Dr. Seuss once said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” If we truly believe in fostering a future where knowledge and opportunity are within reach for every Kansan, we must work to preserve our libraries before it’s too late.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="Alexandra Middlewood, PhD" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood, PhD</figcaption>
 </figure>ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOOD Insight Kansas&nbsp;As a first generation college student who is now a professor, I know firsthand the vital role libraries play in providing access to knowledge and opportunity, especially for those from underserved backgrounds.At my university, nearly half of the student population is also first-generation, and like me, many have relied on libraries as gateways to education, technology, and personal growth. Though I didn’t grow up in the Sunflower State, my students have shown me how deeply public libraries support communities across Kansas, providing essential resources that foster learning, connection, and a brighter future.In mid-March President Trump issued an executive order to dismantle the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to the fullest extent possible — only Congress can fully close the IMLS as it was established by a Congressional act in 1996 — and directs the Office of Management and Budget to reject funding requests from IMLS. It is expected that Trump’s future budget requests will propose to eliminate the IMLS altogether.This executive order puts essential library resources at risk, especially in rural and low-income communities. IMLS is the primary source of federal funding for libraries across the country and provides approximately $2.1 million in funding to Kansas public libraries annually.With all 367 public libraries across Kansas relying on this funding, these cuts will have a widespread financial impact and deepen educational disparities across the state.According to Ray Walling, State Librarian at the State Library of Kansas, the provided funding is “integral to the operations of all Kansas libraries. Our statewide… services could not be offered at current levels without this support.”Some examples of how the State Library of Kansas uses these funds includes: to support the Summer Reading Program that provides summer reading materials to Kansas libraries, provide access to books for people with disabilities (e.g. Talking Books program, braille and large print books), statewide resource sharing through the Kansas Library Catalog (e.g. interlibrary loan), provide access to state documents via the Kansas Government Information Online Library, statewide access to digital collections of ebooks and audiobooks (e.g. Libby app), and the Kansas Notable Books program that recognizes outstanding titles either written by Kansans or about a Kansas-related topic.In the past two years, IMLS also provided $10,000 to the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation to expand the tribe’s reference library for those learning and studying the Potawatomi language and culture; just over $28,000 to Exploration Place in Wichita to provide professional development that led to expansion of the museum’s digital services, allowing them to reach every Kansas county and school district; nearly $50,000 to Independence Community Collegeto create a publicly accessible online catalog featuring significant playwrights, performing artists, and original manuscripts; and $71,000 to the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska for the purpose of identifying and documenting culturally significant artifacts and artwork, including creating a virtual repository of photographs and digitized art.Kansas ranks second in the nation for per capita library visits, reflecting the deep value Kansans place on these essential community hubs. With such high engagement, it’s clear that libraries are not only centers of learning and opportunity but also key components of daily life for Kansans.Dismantling IMLS isn’t just a budget decision — it’s a decision that will take books out of children’s hands, limit job-seekers' access to technology, and erase vital cultural and historical resources.Public libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they are community hubs that empower Kansans to learn, grow, and connect.As Dr. Seuss once said, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” If we truly believe in fostering a future where knowledge and opportunity are within reach for every Kansan, we must work to preserve our libraries before it’s too late.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University

Insight:  Cutting Library Funding Will Cost Kansas Communities

UPDATE:&nbsp; Caring Hands Humane Society says that Sissy has been adopted, but they have more Furry Friends to adopt.&nbsp;

This sweet and energetic girl has been at CHHS for 107 total days 🐾Say hello to our 11-month-old blue heeler – a loyal and playful pup looking for her forever home! Sissy is 30 pounds of energy and she’s ready to find a family that can keep up with her!

She’s a farm dog at heart, so an active family with a yard to run and play in is a must. Though she may be a little shy around new faces, once she warms up, she’ll be by your side through thick and thin. She’s super smart, loves her treats, and is quick to learn new skills!

Submit an application for Sissy:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/">https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/"></a>Caring Hands Humane Society is located at 1400 Southeast 3rd Street in Newton.

 They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. but are closed for lunch from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. 

You can reach their adoption staff at 316-283-0839.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743686735539.jpeg" alt="Sissy - Caring Hands Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Sissy - Caring Hands Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:&nbsp; Caring Hands Humane Society says that Sissy has been adopted, but they have more Furry Friends to adopt.&nbsp;🐾 Meet Sissy! This sweet and energetic girl has been at CHHS for 107 total days 🐾Say hello to our 11-month-old blue heeler – a loyal and playful pup looking for her forever home! Sissy is 30 pounds of energy and she’s ready to find a family that can keep up with her!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743686764936.jpeg" alt="Sissy - Caring Hands Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Sissy - Caring Hands Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>She’s a farm dog at heart, so an active family with a yard to run and play in is a must. Though she may be a little shy around new faces, once she warms up, she’ll be by your side through thick and thin. She’s super smart, loves her treats, and is quick to learn new skills!Submit an application for Sissy:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/">https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/</a><a target="_blank" href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/"></a>Caring Hands Humane Society is located at 1400 Southeast 3rd Street in Newton. They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. but are closed for lunch from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. You can reach their adoption staff at 316-283-0839.

Adopt a Furry Friend: Sissy  -  ADOPTED

Ford Motor company started phasing out its flex fuel engine option with the 2024 model year F Series pickup.  But that's not setting well with corn farmers, and one in particular in Missouri. 

 Bradley Schad is actively trying to persuade Ford to reverse that decision. and get back on board with ethanol.  He believes that the company is more focused on changing the F series pickup to an electric fleet. 

 The Model Year 2023 was the last time you could get the five-liter V-8 with the Flex Fuel option. Recent regulations did away with the incentives that manufacturers had to build flex fuel and E-85 vehicles. 

 Republican Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley and Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer reintroduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 in February.  If that would pass, it would enable year-round, nationwide sales of ethanol fuel blends up to 15%... Something that farm state politicians have been pushing for.

Hear John's commentary in the player below.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738938711482.jpeg" alt="John Jenkinson" />
 <figcaption>John Jenkinson</figcaption>
 </figure>Ford Motor company started phasing out its flex fuel engine option with the 2024 model year F Series pickup. But that's not setting well with corn farmers, and one in particular in Missouri. Bradley Schad is actively trying to persuade Ford to reverse that decision. and get back on board with ethanol. He believes that the company is more focused on changing the F series pickup to an electric fleet. The Model Year 2023 was the last time you could get the five-liter V-8 with the Flex Fuel option. Recent regulations did away with the incentives that manufacturers had to build flex fuel and E-85 vehicles. Republican Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley and Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer reintroduced the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act of 2025 in February. If that would pass, it would enable year-round, nationwide sales of ethanol fuel blends up to 15%... Something that farm state politicians have been pushing for.Hear John's commentary in the player below.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Ag Minute: April 3, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9ycjd-186de2a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Ag Minute: Ethanol blends for vehicles

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Karen Hammersmith, Reno County Health Department 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680188997710.jpeg" alt="Pleasantview Photo" />
 <figcaption>Pleasantview Photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Pleasantview Spring Celebration" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=c89ry-186de3a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

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