HUTCHINSON, Kan. — VA announced last week that all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military – at home or abroad – are now eligible to enroll directly in VA health care. This means that all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 are eligible to enroll in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. Additionally, Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States are eligible to enroll.

"We started with the PACT Act last year," Herndon said. "It modified existing law and made three new categories of Veterans eligible for VA health care. That was supposed to be phased in, those three new categories, through 2034. President Biden, last year, Veteran's Day said, I'd like to see us get rid of that. Secretary McDonough and his staff have been working hard to develop some new rules. Effective March 5, every one of those three categories of Veterans is eligible for health care, right now."

Any Veteran who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity (TERA) at home or abroad is eligible for VA health care.

"We're using the term TERA," Herndon said. "If you come in and sit down and talk with us, it's a little easier to say that. Toxic exposure risk activity is a bit of a tongue twister. Occupational hazards include jobs where you had to work with asbestos, industrial solvents, lead, paints that include the chemical agent resistant coating, which those of us in the military know as CARC paint, and then firefighting foams. Those are just a few examples. There's a lot of other examples. It's a very long list of toxic exposure risks that service members may have been subjected to, especially if it's something that is tracked through a tracking record system."

VA will use all available information to determine if Veterans participated in a TERA, including military records and service connection. 

You can come into the Hutchinson VA Clinic at 1625 East 30th to get your questions answered during their business hours weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

<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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650578121737.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — VA announced last week that all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military – at home or abroad – are now eligible to enroll directly in VA health care. This means that all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 are eligible to enroll in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. Additionally, Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States are eligible to enroll."We started with the PACT Act last year," Herndon said. "It modified existing law and made three new categories of Veterans eligible for VA health care. That was supposed to be phased in, those three new categories, through 2034. President Biden, last year, Veteran's Day said, I'd like to see us get rid of that. Secretary McDonough and his staff have been working hard to develop some new rules. Effective March 5, every one of those three categories of Veterans is eligible for health care, right now."Any Veteran who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity (TERA) at home or abroad is eligible for VA health care."We're using the term TERA," Herndon said. "If you come in and sit down and talk with us, it's a little easier to say that. Toxic exposure risk activity is a bit of a tongue twister. Occupational hazards include jobs where you had to work with asbestos, industrial solvents, lead, paints that include the chemical agent resistant coating, which those of us in the military know as CARC paint, and then firefighting foams. Those are just a few examples. There's a lot of other examples. It's a very long list of toxic exposure risks that service members may have been subjected to, especially if it's something that is tracked through a tracking record system."VA will use all available information to determine if Veterans participated in a TERA, including military records and service connection. You can come into the Hutchinson VA Clinic at 1625 East 30th to get your questions answered during their business hours weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.<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;&nbsp;

VA: PACT Act full rollout moved up

ELI Wireline Services is hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.

Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out-of-state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles and equipment is also involved.

Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary/job bonus. This position is based out of Hutchinson, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710187678175.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELI Wireline Services is hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out-of-state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles and equipment is also involved.Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary/job bonus. This position is based out of Hutchinson, Kansas.

HutchCC gives good return on tax investment

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Deputy Elections Clerk Jenna Fager let Hutch Post know that not many people have taken the opportunity to vote early in the March 19 Presidential Preference Primary.

There have been 350 total early votes as of Tuesday afternoon. The office mailed out 620 advance ballots.

To vote in advance, go to the Reno County Annex, 125 W. 1st Ave., and cast your advance ballot in-person during regular business hours. You have until noon on Monday, March 18. Election Day is Tuesday, March 19 with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. that day.&nbsp;

You can only vote in the primary for the party with which you are registered.

<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/2021/8/1629300596422.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Deputy Elections Clerk Jenna Fager let Hutch Post know that not many people have taken the opportunity to vote early in the March 19 Presidential Preference Primary.There have been 350 total early votes as of Tuesday afternoon. The office mailed out 620 advance ballots.To vote in advance, go to the Reno County Annex, 125 W. 1st Ave., and cast your advance ballot in-person during regular business hours. You have until noon on Monday, March 18. Election Day is Tuesday, March 19 with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. that day.&nbsp;You can only vote in the primary for the party with which you are registered.<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;

Presidential Preference Primary early voting slow

TOPEKA, Kan. — Sunflower Foundation recently awarded nearly $1.5 million in grants to help support the core operating capacities of 65 organizations serving nearly two-thirds of Kansas counties so they can better meet the critical health needs of their communities. This initiative strengthens the capacity of nonprofits to fulfill their missions, serve their communities and bolster their impact.

The foundation received 267 applications through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The funding opportunity focused on grantees serving diverse populations and providing a wide range of services, including health care, housing, community safety, economic development, education, food security, social cohesion, social justice, and transportation. Grant awards were capped at $25,000.

The foundation prioritized applicants that demonstrated they were meeting a need critical to individual or community health, as well as those that have limited resources and assets or have been historically overlooked by other grant opportunities due to lack of capacity or reduced access to resources or connections.

The foundation has invested in capacity building grants since 2002. Since that time, the foundation has provided more than $13.4 million in direct funding to support the capacity needs of nearly 400 nonprofit organizations across Kansas.

Central Kansas Community Foundation, Newton ($16,000) Kansas Recovery Network, Inc., Hutchinson ($18,900)&nbsp;&nbsp; Kansas Rural Center, North Newton ($25,000) Kansas Sampler Foundation, Inman ($23,733)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710322220159.png" alt="Sunflower Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Sunflower Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>Sunflower FoundationTOPEKA, Kan. — Sunflower Foundation recently awarded nearly $1.5 million in grants to help support the core operating capacities of 65 organizations serving nearly two-thirds of Kansas counties so they can better meet the critical health needs of their communities. This initiative strengthens the capacity of nonprofits to fulfill their missions, serve their communities and bolster their impact.The foundation received 267 applications through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. The funding opportunity focused on grantees serving diverse populations and providing a wide range of services, including health care, housing, community safety, economic development, education, food security, social cohesion, social justice, and transportation. Grant awards were capped at $25,000.The foundation prioritized applicants that demonstrated they were meeting a need critical to individual or community health, as well as those that have limited resources and assets or have been historically overlooked by other grant opportunities due to lack of capacity or reduced access to resources or connections.The foundation has invested in capacity building grants since 2002. Since that time, the foundation has provided more than $13.4 million in direct funding to support the capacity needs of nearly 400 nonprofit organizations across Kansas.Hutch Post area awardees include:Central Kansas Community Foundation, Newton ($16,000) Kansas Recovery Network, Inc., Hutchinson ($18,900)&nbsp;&nbsp; Kansas Rural Center, North Newton ($25,000) Kansas Sampler Foundation, Inman ($23,733)<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;

Local organizations receive Sunflower Foundation grants

HAVEN, Kan. — With the help of State Representative Joe Seiwert, a house bill (HB 2481) that passed that side earlier in the session has a hearing Wednesday in the Senate Transportation Committee.

This bill would designate K-96 between the east and west city limits of Haven as the PFC Henry Lee Fisher Memorial Highway.

Assuming the bill finishes going through the process, a fundraiser to raise money for the signs on K-96 will be held&nbsp;Thursday, May 9 at Baker Ballroom from 6 to 9 p.m. There will be a live performer, catered dinner, and a silent auction.

KDOT does all of the work and maintenance but the family must pay for the signs.

If you want to give toward the signs, call or text Jake Feil for more information at (620) 314-9570.

Below is the testimony of Jake Feil, Fisher's nephew, as prepared for hearings in Topeka.

Henry Lee Fisher was born on May 31, 1947 in Haven, Kansas to Kermit and Chlodine Fisher. He was the second oldest of four children.

The Fisher Family were lifelong Haven residents and all four kids graduated from Haven High School with Henry graduating in 1965.

Kermit Fisher, Henry's father, proudly served in the Army during WWII so both of his boys chose to follow in his footsteps and serve their country. Upon graduating high school, Henry enlisted along with two high school buddies.

Henry was rejected the first time due to a hernia that was found during his physical.

Perhaps he could have walked away right then but he chose to return to Haven, have the hernia repaired, and went back and enlisted.

Henry joined the Army and became part of the 16th Infantry- 1st Infantry Division and was eventually sent to the frontlines of Vietnam.

Sadly, he would never return home as PFC Henry Lee Fisher was killed in action in Vietnam on June 18, 1967. He was just 20 years old.

Like many of his ancestors before him, Henry Lee Fisher chose to serve his country and to defend the freedoms that we all enjoy to this day. It was a calling for him to serve his country. He gave the ultimate sacrifice doing just that.

To my knowledge there have been only (2) Haven residents that were killed in action while serving in our military, but just one of those lived his entire life there and that is my uncle, Henry Lee Fisher.

I never got the chance to meet my uncle Henry. I grew up on stories of him told to me by my grandma and my mother. I've been proud of him since the day I heard the very first story.

Henry had a chance to avoid Vietnam but he felt so strongly about serving that he went back after his hernia surgery. That to me shows just what kind of man he was.

Being a lifelong resident of Haven, it is only fair that we memorialize his great sacrifice. I am here today to ask the committee to designate the portion of 96 highway from the eastern city limits of Haven to the western city limits of Haven the PFC Henry Lee Fisher Memorial Highway and have a suitable sign erected at or near both the eastern city limits and western city limits of Haven.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704290216254.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — With the help of State Representative Joe Seiwert, a house bill (HB 2481) that passed that side earlier in the session has a hearing Wednesday in the Senate Transportation Committee.This bill would designate K-96 between the east and west city limits of Haven as the PFC Henry Lee Fisher Memorial Highway.Assuming the bill finishes going through the process, a fundraiser to raise money for the signs on K-96 will be held&nbsp;Thursday, May 9 at Baker Ballroom from 6 to 9 p.m. There will be a live performer, catered dinner, and a silent auction.KDOT does all of the work and maintenance but the family must pay for the signs.If you want to give toward the signs, call or text Jake Feil for more information at (620) 314-9570.Below is the testimony of Jake Feil, Fisher's nephew, as prepared for hearings in Topeka.Henry Lee Fisher was born on May 31, 1947 in Haven, Kansas to Kermit and Chlodine Fisher. He was the second oldest of four children.The Fisher Family were lifelong Haven residents and all four kids graduated from Haven High School with Henry graduating in 1965.Kermit Fisher, Henry's father, proudly served in the Army during WWII so both of his boys chose to follow in his footsteps and serve their country. Upon graduating high school, Henry enlisted along with two high school buddies.Henry was rejected the first time due to a hernia that was found during his physical.Perhaps he could have walked away right then but he chose to return to Haven, have the hernia repaired, and went back and enlisted.Henry joined the Army and became part of the 16th Infantry- 1st Infantry Division and was eventually sent to the frontlines of Vietnam.Sadly, he would never return home as PFC Henry Lee Fisher was killed in action in Vietnam on June 18, 1967. He was just 20 years old.Like many of his ancestors before him, Henry Lee Fisher chose to serve his country and to defend the freedoms that we all enjoy to this day. It was a calling for him to serve his country. He gave the ultimate sacrifice doing just that.To my knowledge there have been only (2) Haven residents that were killed in action while serving in our military, but just one of those lived his entire life there and that is my uncle, Henry Lee Fisher.I never got the chance to meet my uncle Henry. I grew up on stories of him told to me by my grandma and my mother. I've been proud of him since the day I heard the very first story.Henry had a chance to avoid Vietnam but he felt so strongly about serving that he went back after his hernia surgery. That to me shows just what kind of man he was.Being a lifelong resident of Haven, it is only fair that we memorialize his great sacrifice. I am here today to ask the committee to designate the portion of 96 highway from the eastern city limits of Haven to the western city limits of Haven the PFC Henry Lee Fisher Memorial Highway and have a suitable sign erected at or near both the eastern city limits and western city limits of Haven.<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;

K-96 naming bill continuing through process

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;&nbsp;

3/13/2024 2:23 AM-Cassondra	Marie Scott-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000&nbsp;

3/12/2024 11:39 PM-Selley	Ahmad	Hena-Spuell-Operate a MV w/o a valid license; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance; Ignition Interlock Device; Operate MV without device during restriction

3/12/2024 9:12 PM-Robin	Barr Chadd-Failure to Appear

3/12/2024 8:33 PM-Taylor	Ann Faulkner-Failure to Appear

3/12/2024 7:39 PM-Michael	Cres Henry-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance; Failure to Appear

3/12/2024 1:18 PM-Elena Arilla Pastor-Contribute Child Misconduct; Cause child to commit a felony; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500

3/12/2024 1:02 PM-River	Axl Laque Stokley-Probation Violation

3/12/2024 10:21 AM-Whitney	Kile Perez-Direct Contempt

3/12/2024 8:03 AM-Michela	Colette Redmond-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;

3/12/2024 7:57 AM-Justin	Tyler Smith-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="Bracelets" />
 <figcaption>Bracelets</figcaption>
 </figure>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;&nbsp;3/13/2024 2:23 AM-Cassondra	Marie Scott-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000&nbsp;3/12/2024 11:39 PM-Selley	Ahmad	Hena-Spuell-Operate a MV w/o a valid license; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance; Ignition Interlock Device; Operate MV without device during restriction3/12/2024 9:12 PM-Robin	Barr Chadd-Failure to Appear3/12/2024 8:33 PM-Taylor	Ann Faulkner-Failure to Appear3/12/2024 7:39 PM-Michael	Cres Henry-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance; Failure to Appear3/12/2024 1:18 PM-Elena Arilla Pastor-Contribute Child Misconduct; Cause child to commit a felony; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,5003/12/2024 1:02 PM-River	Axl Laque Stokley-Probation Violation3/12/2024 10:21 AM-Whitney	Kile Perez-Direct Contempt3/12/2024 8:03 AM-Michela	Colette Redmond-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;3/12/2024 7:57 AM-Justin	Tyler Smith-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

Daily Bookings

NEWTON, Kan. — The house at 1023 N. Main in Newton is scheduled to be moved Wednesday to 2101 N. Main in North Newton. 

Portions of Main Street will be blocked and have slow-moving traffic for about an hour, beginning at 9 a.m. 

Newton Police will assist with traffic control in Newton, and North Newton Police will block Main Street at 23rd Street. 

Drivers should plan an alternative route or plan for delays. Evergy anticipates some potential electric outages along the route while lines are disconnected during the move. They will be notifying the affected properties.&nbsp;&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/2024/3/1710268377041.jpeg" alt="Newton House Move-Photo Courtesy City of Newton" />
 <figcaption>Newton House Move-Photo Courtesy City of Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — The house at 1023 N. Main in Newton is scheduled to be moved Wednesday to 2101 N. Main in North Newton. Portions of Main Street will be blocked and have slow-moving traffic for about an hour, beginning at 9 a.m. Newton Police will assist with traffic control in Newton, and North Newton Police will block Main Street at 23rd Street. Drivers should plan an alternative route or plan for delays. Evergy anticipates some potential electric outages along the route while lines are disconnected during the move. They will be notifying the affected properties.&nbsp;&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;

House to be moved from Newton to North Newton Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The ACLU Kansas Executive Director stopped in at the NAACP meeting at the HCC Student Union last week. Dr. Micah Kubic has been the executive director of the ACLU of Kansas since January, 2022.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Kubic discussed two distinct issues that the ACLU is fighting which are "Represent! Reclaiming our Vote, Restoring Our Democracy" and "Reimagine Justice."&nbsp;

"When I think about the way&nbsp; that our rights are under attack today, what I think of is, help me to hold out until my change comes," Kubic said. "I think there's something special about that too, sometimes people hear that and they think it just sort of means to sit still, to be meek, to wait, to hope. I think there is a difference though between holding on and holding out. Holding on? That just means holding on for dear life. Hoping. Just hoping that if you sit still something good will happen. That is not what this moment calls for. What this moment calls for is holding out."

According to ACLU of Kansas, the Reimagine Justice bill's purpose is to secure the elimination of juvenile fines and fees statewide, securing statutory decriminalization of medical marijuana and ensuring equity in the regulated medical industry and decreasing the number of people detained in Kansas pre-trial.&nbsp;

Kubic said kids are not able to pay bills and it doesn't stop them from making mistakes. He said in 2023, the bill got a hearing in the state house. It went before the House Corrections committee and every single member of the committee voted in favor of that bill. It didn't go any further last year because they ran out of time, but it is up again this year with a hearing on the Senate Judiciary committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;"We all know someone who has made a mistake in their life," Kubic said. "If you are a juvenile and you go into our justice system, we charge you for the privilege. We make you pay fees and fines and restitution in ways that could really destroy people's entire life chances. We know as well that young African American men, are the ones who are most likely to be persecuted by the system here in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

The "Represent! Reclaiming our Vote, Restoring Our Democracy" bill aims to expand early voting and increase accessibility for voters.&nbsp;

Kubic said early voting is when you postmark your ballot on election day and you put it in the mail. It has up to 72 hours or three days to arrive at the election office and still be counted.&nbsp;

"That's important because the mail is slow sometimes," Kubic said. "People who have done everything right. They've done everything we've asked them to. Now they want to say even though you've done everything right, you don't everything we've asked you to and more, we not going to count it because the post office sends the mail to Nebraska first before sending it back to Kansas."&nbsp;

Kubic said a key factor to increase voter accessibility in Kansas is to accurately inform those with Kansas felonies of their right to vote after they serve their sentence in prison.&nbsp; He said there are at least 140,000 people with felony convictions in Kansas who are eligible to vote. Kansas has a population of about 3 million.&nbsp;

"The reason to do this is because its the right thing to do," Kubic said. "The reason to vote is about whether you are included in the community or excluded from the community. There is a moral state involved here in who we say is part of us and who we say is not, how we welcome people back into the community and how we create a path for them to be part of community."&nbsp;

More information about the current bills from ACLU of Kansas is available at <a href="https://www.aclukansas.org/en/campaigns">aclukansas.org.</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.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709920681712.jpeg" alt="ACLU Kansas Director Micah Kubic was in Hutchinson March 7." />
 <figcaption>ACLU Kansas Director Micah Kubic was in Hutchinson March 7.</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The ACLU Kansas Executive Director stopped in at the NAACP meeting at the HCC Student Union last week. Dr. Micah Kubic has been the executive director of the ACLU of Kansas since January, 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kubic discussed two distinct issues that the ACLU is fighting which are "Represent! Reclaiming our Vote, Restoring Our Democracy" and "Reimagine Justice."&nbsp;"When I think about the way&nbsp; that our rights are under attack today, what I think of is, help me to hold out until my change comes," Kubic said. "I think there's something special about that too, sometimes people hear that and they think it just sort of means to sit still, to be meek, to wait, to hope. I think there is a difference though between holding on and holding out. Holding on? That just means holding on for dear life. Hoping. Just hoping that if you sit still something good will happen. That is not what this moment calls for. What this moment calls for is holding out."According to ACLU of Kansas, the Reimagine Justice bill's purpose is to secure the elimination of juvenile fines and fees statewide, securing statutory decriminalization of medical marijuana and ensuring equity in the regulated medical industry and decreasing the number of people detained in Kansas pre-trial.&nbsp;Kubic said kids are not able to pay bills and it doesn't stop them from making mistakes. He said in 2023, the bill got a hearing in the state house. It went before the House Corrections committee and every single member of the committee voted in favor of that bill. It didn't go any further last year because they ran out of time, but it is up again this year with a hearing on the Senate Judiciary committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"We all know someone who has made a mistake in their life," Kubic said. "If you are a juvenile and you go into our justice system, we charge you for the privilege. We make you pay fees and fines and restitution in ways that could really destroy people's entire life chances. We know as well that young African American men, are the ones who are most likely to be persecuted by the system here in the state of Kansas.&nbsp;The "Represent! Reclaiming our Vote, Restoring Our Democracy" bill aims to expand early voting and increase accessibility for voters.&nbsp;Kubic said early voting is when you postmark your ballot on election day and you put it in the mail. It has up to 72 hours or three days to arrive at the election office and still be counted.&nbsp;"That's important because the mail is slow sometimes," Kubic said. "People who have done everything right. They've done everything we've asked them to. Now they want to say even though you've done everything right, you don't everything we've asked you to and more, we not going to count it because the post office sends the mail to Nebraska first before sending it back to Kansas."&nbsp;Kubic said a key factor to increase voter accessibility in Kansas is to accurately inform those with Kansas felonies of their right to vote after they serve their sentence in prison.&nbsp; He said there are at least 140,000 people with felony convictions in Kansas who are eligible to vote. Kansas has a population of about 3 million.&nbsp;"The reason to do this is because its the right thing to do," Kubic said. "The reason to vote is about whether you are included in the community or excluded from the community. There is a moral state involved here in who we say is part of us and who we say is not, how we welcome people back into the community and how we create a path for them to be part of community."&nbsp;More information about the current bills from ACLU of Kansas is available at <a href="https://www.aclukansas.org/en/campaigns">aclukansas.org.</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.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas ACLU Executive Director encourages patience at NAACP meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you have a child who will be age 5 by Aug 31, 2024, please save the date for our Kindergarten Meet and Greet event on Thursday, April 25th from 6-7 p.m. at your home elementary school. 

All elementary schools will hold the same event at the same time. You and your child will get to explore their school and get excited for kindergarten. 

Visit <a href="http://www.usd308.com/kmg24?fbclid=IwAR0E8dzbNWtI2N3JjyMDXF9okVwhCJtdp5Z1vGySJZ32D1aJKMBZUYHBIHc" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/kmg24</a> to find the district boundary map.&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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you have a child who will be age 5 by Aug 31, 2024, please save the date for our Kindergarten Meet and Greet event on Thursday, April 25th from 6-7 p.m. at your home elementary school. All elementary schools will hold the same event at the same time. You and your child will get to explore their school and get excited for kindergarten. Visit <a href="http://www.usd308.com/kmg24?fbclid=IwAR0E8dzbNWtI2N3JjyMDXF9okVwhCJtdp5Z1vGySJZ32D1aJKMBZUYHBIHc" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/kmg24</a> to find the district boundary map.&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;

USD 308 sets Kindergarten Meet and Greet

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 is making an effort to comply with a state statute that says that any student from out of district should be allowed to attend any school they want in Kansas, as long as there is space available. Figuring out the amount of space available is the ongoing work.

"In April, our district will send out an intent to return form," said Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman. "We'll send that to every student in our district, pre-K to 11th grade, asking if they are planning to come back next year, so we can reserve a seat for them. We're going to study that data and look at our historical data trends, talk to our admin. Then, we'll look at that, put all that data together and then we'll say, on May 1, what our capacity is. Capacity, it's not class size."

Legally speaking, every district has to take any kids in good standing that actually live in that district.

"Capacity is how many non-resident seats you have available by grade level," Couchman said. "That will have to be posted on everybody's website by May 1. After we have that data, from June 1 to June 30. If you are a non-resident student in our area. Really, this applies for any student in the state of Kansas, you can apply at a district. They will fill out a form saying that they want to come to Buhler schools."

July 1 to 15 is when the lottery for the limited spots will take place.

"That is a random drawing by each grade level for the open seats," Couchman said. "We'll draw them all out and list them out and then we'll notify them saying, your name was drawn, do you want the seat, yes or no. Then they'll have, our policy is going to state, two days to get back to us. Then we'll just keep going down the list until we fill our seats."

Once a student is in, presuming they remain in good standing, they can remain in the same district through their career.

<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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625156550797.jpeg" alt="Cindy Couchman USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Couchman USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostBUHLER, Kan. — Buhler USD 313 is making an effort to comply with a state statute that says that any student from out of district should be allowed to attend any school they want in Kansas, as long as there is space available. Figuring out the amount of space available is the ongoing work."In April, our district will send out an intent to return form," said Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman. "We'll send that to every student in our district, pre-K to 11th grade, asking if they are planning to come back next year, so we can reserve a seat for them. We're going to study that data and look at our historical data trends, talk to our admin. Then, we'll look at that, put all that data together and then we'll say, on May 1, what our capacity is. Capacity, it's not class size."Legally speaking, every district has to take any kids in good standing that actually live in that district."Capacity is how many non-resident seats you have available by grade level," Couchman said. "That will have to be posted on everybody's website by May 1. After we have that data, from June 1 to June 30. If you are a non-resident student in our area. Really, this applies for any student in the state of Kansas, you can apply at a district. They will fill out a form saying that they want to come to Buhler schools."July 1 to 15 is when the lottery for the limited spots will take place."That is a random drawing by each grade level for the open seats," Couchman said. "We'll draw them all out and list them out and then we'll notify them saying, your name was drawn, do you want the seat, yes or no. Then they'll have, our policy is going to state, two days to get back to us. Then we'll just keep going down the list until we fill our seats."Once a student is in, presuming they remain in good standing, they can remain in the same district through their career.<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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 313 plans to send out 'intent to return' form

SANDRA MILBURN Reno County Communications Specialist

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Nitrate levels have continued to be above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The last nitrate level test was collected on March 4, 2024. The level tested at 12.5 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. Nitrate levels in water resources have increased in many areas due to applications of inorganic fertilizer and animal manure in agriculture areas.

Below is information about the initial test result and public notice from August 12, 2020. Since that date, Reno County has tested quarterly, and each test result has been above the Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems.

On August 12, 2020, Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A warning was then sent to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. Subsequent notices were sent notifying residents that bottled water will be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.

Reno County Public Works is currently in discussions with the City of Hutchinson regarding the purchase of water for Yoder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702321639691.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SANDRA MILBURN Reno County Communications SpecialistRENO COUNTY, Kan. — Nitrate levels have continued to be above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The last nitrate level test was collected on March 4, 2024. The level tested at 12.5 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. Nitrate levels in water resources have increased in many areas due to applications of inorganic fertilizer and animal manure in agriculture areas.Below is information about the initial test result and public notice from August 12, 2020. Since that date, Reno County has tested quarterly, and each test result has been above the Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems.On August 12, 2020, Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A warning was then sent to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. Subsequent notices were sent notifying residents that bottled water will be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.Reno County Public Works is currently in discussions with the City of Hutchinson regarding the purchase of water for Yoder.<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;&nbsp;

High nitrate levels warrant water source changes

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Noel Lodge released their latest needs list on social media Monday. The list is below.

Non-Perishable Canned Goods: Donations of canned vegetables, soups, and beans would be greatly appreciated.

Tissues: With the flu season upon us, tissues are essential for our guests well-being. Every box counts.

Water: Hydration is crucial, Donations of bottled water will keep our guests refreshed.

Paper Plates: Disposable plates make mealtime easier for everyone. Your contribution ensures that no one goes hungry.

Laundry Soap: Clean clothes provide dignity. Help us keep our laundry facilities stocked with laundry soap.

Trash Bags (13 Gallon and 30 Gallon): Keeping our shelter clean and organized is a team effort. Trash bags are a simple yet vital necessity.

Drop-off Location: Noel Lodge Emergency Shelter 400 west 2nd Avenue Suite C, Hutchinson, KS 67501 or contact the facility manager Jerome at 620-314-8888.

<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/2020/3/1585666874044.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Noel Lodge released their latest needs list on social media Monday. The list is below.Non-Perishable Canned Goods: Donations of canned vegetables, soups, and beans would be greatly appreciated.Tissues: With the flu season upon us, tissues are essential for our guests well-being. Every box counts.Water: Hydration is crucial, Donations of bottled water will keep our guests refreshed.Paper Plates: Disposable plates make mealtime easier for everyone. Your contribution ensures that no one goes hungry.Laundry Soap: Clean clothes provide dignity. Help us keep our laundry facilities stocked with laundry soap.Trash Bags (13 Gallon and 30 Gallon): Keeping our shelter clean and organized is a team effort. Trash bags are a simple yet vital necessity.Drop-off Location: Noel Lodge Emergency Shelter 400 west 2nd Avenue Suite C, Hutchinson, KS 67501 or contact the facility manager Jerome at 620-314-8888.<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;

Noel Lodge shelter releases needs list

STAFFORD COUNTY, Kan. —Crews were called to the report of a brush fire in the 1000 block of NE 190th St. on Monday, March 11. Stations that responded were Hudson, Seward, Radium and Stafford stations. Ellinwood Fire Department was requested for mutual aid. Rice County Fire Department also assisted. Fire crews were on scene for approximately four and a half hours. 

Cause of the fire was found to be a tree struck by lightning several days ago that finally fell, lighting the field on fire.

"We can't express enough how important it is that different Departments work together," the department said on Facebook. "This is just another example of the citizens of all counties involved benefiting by a good working relationship with neighboring departments."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710234542518.jpeg" alt="Ellinwood Fire assists on a brush fire in Stafford County on Monday, March 11, 2024. Photo Courtesy Ellinwood Fire Department." />
 <figcaption>Ellinwood Fire assists on a brush fire in Stafford County on Monday, March 11, 2024. Photo Courtesy Ellinwood Fire Department.</figcaption>
 </figure>STAFFORD COUNTY, Kan. —Crews were called to the report of a brush fire in the 1000 block of NE 190th St. on Monday, March 11. Stations that responded were Hudson, Seward, Radium and Stafford stations. Ellinwood Fire Department was requested for mutual aid. Rice County Fire Department also assisted. Fire crews were on scene for approximately four and a half hours. Cause of the fire was found to be a tree struck by lightning several days ago that finally fell, lighting the field on fire."We can't express enough how important it is that different Departments work together," the department said on Facebook. "This is just another example of the citizens of all counties involved benefiting by a good working relationship with neighboring departments."<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;&nbsp;

Brush fire in Stafford County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Apollos Schole Community is coming together to present the play Dorothy in Wonderland on Friday and Saturday March 15 and 16 in Partridge. This is a mashup of the Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland, according to director Deb Cable.

"Dorothy and Alice team up against the villain, the Queen of Hearts," Cable said. "They have to beat her at croquet in order to find the way back home. It's really a fun time. It's a great show. The author is Brian Taylor. He's done a great job in bringing these two classics together."

The ages of the cast stretch from about seven years of age up to juniors in high school.

"The kids are learning," Cable said. "The newest ones, the youngest ones, they are having a great time, I think. They enjoy being the characters that they are. They are really hamming them up, sometimes."

The play is by freewill donation, but those who attend are urged to give generously, as that's how they pay for the next year's production.

"The parents of the home schoolers, they wanted their kids to experience the fine arts and drama," Cable said. "This was a way for them to learn some of those things that public school children get an opportunity to do. It's worked out very well for the kids."

The kids involved come together for other opportunities like athletics, as well, so they do generally know one another and this is just something else they are doing together.

<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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710173108440.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Apollos Schole Community is coming together to present the play Dorothy in Wonderland on Friday and Saturday March 15 and 16 in Partridge. This is a mashup of the Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland, according to director Deb Cable."Dorothy and Alice team up against the villain, the Queen of Hearts," Cable said. "They have to beat her at croquet in order to find the way back home. It's really a fun time. It's a great show. The author is Brian Taylor. He's done a great job in bringing these two classics together."The ages of the cast stretch from about seven years of age up to juniors in high school."The kids are learning," Cable said. "The newest ones, the youngest ones, they are having a great time, I think. They enjoy being the characters that they are. They are really hamming them up, sometimes."The play is by freewill donation, but those who attend are urged to give generously, as that's how they pay for the next year's production."The parents of the home schoolers, they wanted their kids to experience the fine arts and drama," Cable said. "This was a way for them to learn some of those things that public school children get an opportunity to do. It's worked out very well for the kids."The kids involved come together for other opportunities like athletics, as well, so they do generally know one another and this is just something else they are doing together.<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;

Homeschool group holding play this weekend

Bernard Warkentin couldn’t have known that when he planted wheat in central Kansas in 1874 he was sowing Kansas’ legacy as the Wheat State. 

Allegedly, Warkentin was the first to plant Turkey Red wheat, a hard winter variety that was well conditioned to the Kansas climate and soils.

Born in 1847 in what’s now Crimea, Warkentin came to the United States in 1871 with other German-Mennonites fleeing Russian persecution. He chose to settle in Halstead, which in many important ways, like temperature and rainfall, was similar to the steppes of Ukraine.

And, as legend has it, Warkentin brought with him a chest of Turkey Red seed wheat that radically altered the agricultural practices at the time, which mainly featured soft wheat varieties planted in the spring. Turkey Red was planted in the fall, went dormant over winter and was ready for harvest before Kansas’ hot, dry, pest-filled summers.

In 1910, F.D. Corburn, the secretary of the Kansas State Board of Agriculture, remarked in the “Saturday Evening Post” that Warkentin’s variety had powered the state’s wheat production: "Thirty years ago, Kansas was not much of a wheat-growing state. At the present time, and for 10 years past, Kansas has led in wheat growing, and much of the credit for making Kansas a great wheat state belongs to one man, the late Bernard Warkentin. It was through his efforts that the variety which has made the Sunflower commonwealth famous and rich, known as Red Turkey, or Russian hard winter wheat, was introduced..."

Warkentin was instrumental in persuading other farmers to plant the Turkey Red variety, building the state’s legacy as the world’s breadbasket. Kansas went from growing less than 2.5 million bushels of wheat in 1870 to more than 30 million just 20 years later.

An industrious man, Warkentin wasn’t content with simply raising Turkey Red on his farm near Halstead. He converted a former steam mill to a roller mill to grind wheat into flour. He owned another mill in Oklahoma and had interests in banking, warehousing and cement companies. Additionally, Warkentin and his family were among the founders of Bethel College. The farm in Halstead, along with the mill and a home in Newton, are all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Warkentin's work left a legacy not only in Kansas but in American agriculture as a whole. The widespread adoption of Turkey Red wheat benefited farmers economically and had broad impact on the prosperity of the Great Plains and the nation's food production capabilities.

This year will mark the sesquicentennial, or 150th&nbsp;anniversary, of the introduction of Turkey Red to Kansas. Agriculture has changed drastically over the course of those 15 decades, but Kansas is still among the top growers of wheat in the U.S.

As innovative as Turkey Red was, it still pales in comparison to modern varieties. Typical stands of Turkey Red averaged just shy of 15 bushels per acre, or about a quarter of the state’s record average of 57 bushels set in 2016. Kansas farmers and ranchers have diversified into corn, sorghum and soybeans, but wheat is still a staple in many of their rotations. Today, Kansas doesn’t always top the nation in wheat production, but it’s usually close.

Thanks to the legacy of Warkentin and other farmers who found a safe haven in central Kansas and started growing Turkey Red, it will forever be the Wheat State.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauBernard Warkentin couldn’t have known that when he planted wheat in central Kansas in 1874 he was sowing Kansas’ legacy as the Wheat State. Allegedly, Warkentin was the first to plant Turkey Red wheat, a hard winter variety that was well conditioned to the Kansas climate and soils.Born in 1847 in what’s now Crimea, Warkentin came to the United States in 1871 with other German-Mennonites fleeing Russian persecution. He chose to settle in Halstead, which in many important ways, like temperature and rainfall, was similar to the steppes of Ukraine.And, as legend has it, Warkentin brought with him a chest of Turkey Red seed wheat that radically altered the agricultural practices at the time, which mainly featured soft wheat varieties planted in the spring. Turkey Red was planted in the fall, went dormant over winter and was ready for harvest before Kansas’ hot, dry, pest-filled summers.In 1910, F.D. Corburn, the secretary of the Kansas State Board of Agriculture, remarked in the “Saturday Evening Post” that Warkentin’s variety had powered the state’s wheat production: "Thirty years ago, Kansas was not much of a wheat-growing state. At the present time, and for 10 years past, Kansas has led in wheat growing, and much of the credit for making Kansas a great wheat state belongs to one man, the late Bernard Warkentin. It was through his efforts that the variety which has made the Sunflower commonwealth famous and rich, known as Red Turkey, or Russian hard winter wheat, was introduced..."Warkentin was instrumental in persuading other farmers to plant the Turkey Red variety, building the state’s legacy as the world’s breadbasket. Kansas went from growing less than 2.5 million bushels of wheat in 1870 to more than 30 million just 20 years later.An industrious man, Warkentin wasn’t content with simply raising Turkey Red on his farm near Halstead. He converted a former steam mill to a roller mill to grind wheat into flour. He owned another mill in Oklahoma and had interests in banking, warehousing and cement companies. Additionally, Warkentin and his family were among the founders of Bethel College. The farm in Halstead, along with the mill and a home in Newton, are all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.Warkentin's work left a legacy not only in Kansas but in American agriculture as a whole. The widespread adoption of Turkey Red wheat benefited farmers economically and had broad impact on the prosperity of the Great Plains and the nation's food production capabilities.This year will mark the sesquicentennial, or 150th&nbsp;anniversary, of the introduction of Turkey Red to Kansas. Agriculture has changed drastically over the course of those 15 decades, but Kansas is still among the top growers of wheat in the U.S.As innovative as Turkey Red was, it still pales in comparison to modern varieties. Typical stands of Turkey Red averaged just shy of 15 bushels per acre, or about a quarter of the state’s record average of 57 bushels set in 2016. Kansas farmers and ranchers have diversified into corn, sorghum and soybeans, but wheat is still a staple in many of their rotations. Today, Kansas doesn’t always top the nation in wheat production, but it’s usually close.Thanks to the legacy of Warkentin and other farmers who found a safe haven in central Kansas and started growing Turkey Red, it will forever be the Wheat State."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp; &nbsp;Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.<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;

Insight: Warkentin's wheat

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; &nbsp;

3/12/2024 1:18 AM-Brittany	Nicole Ardis-Failure to Appear

3/11/2024 6:23 PM-Francis	Sue Gardner-Failure to Appear

3/11/2024 4:23 PM-Beth	Ann Smith-Failure to Appear

3/11/2024 3:17 PM-Elicia	Christine Hase-Failure to Appear

3/11/2024 2:37 PM-Crystal	Rae Burris-Criminal Trespass; Defiance of Order

3/11/2024 10:53 AM-Leland	Trevor Norris-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; 1 prior conviction; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway; Disorderly Conduct; Brawling or fighting

3/11/2024 9:17 AM-Shane	Dean Tooker-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>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; &nbsp;3/12/2024 1:18 AM-Brittany	Nicole Ardis-Failure to Appear3/11/2024 6:23 PM-Francis	Sue Gardner-Failure to Appear3/11/2024 4:23 PM-Beth	Ann Smith-Failure to Appear3/11/2024 3:17 PM-Elicia	Christine Hase-Failure to Appear3/11/2024 2:37 PM-Crystal	Rae Burris-Criminal Trespass; Defiance of Order3/11/2024 10:53 AM-Leland	Trevor Norris-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; 1 prior conviction; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway; Disorderly Conduct; Brawling or fighting3/11/2024 9:17 AM-Shane	Dean Tooker-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

If interested, please contact our Operations Coordinator at <a href="mailto:Christin.Olson@eliwireline.com">Christin.Olson@eliwireline.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710187678175.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELI Wireline Services is hiring CDL Drivers (A or B) with a hazmat endorsement, or ability to acquire one, for our oilfield wireline company. ELI would also consider helping the right people obtain a CDL license. The job will require rigging for wireline operations.Applicants should be able to work outdoors and have the ability to lift 75 pounds. Typical 40-hour work week with overtime in peak season. Some weekend work and occasional travel out-of-state is required. Light maintenance, cleaning and mechanical work of vehicles and equipment is also involved.Benefits include 100% Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Insurance paid by employer, 401K, and a competitive salary/job bonus. This position is based out of Hutchinson, Kansas.If interested, please contact our Operations Coordinator at <a href="mailto:Christin.Olson@eliwireline.com">Christin.Olson@eliwireline.com</a>.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Paul Lee Stotts, a 35 year old Hutchinson man, was sentenced to 172 months in prison on an aggravated battery charge and 36 months of post release supervision on a violate protection order on Friday, March 8, 2024. He will also be required to register as a lifetime violent offender.&nbsp;

On Jan. 11, 2024, Paul Stotts pleaded guilty to aggravated battery and violate protection order charges connected with causing great bodily harm or disfigurement to another person, his father, Larry Stotts.

"Paul Stotts is a dangerous, dangerous individual, Reno County District Attorney Thomas Stanton said at the sentencing trial. "He has shown this over and over again."&nbsp;

Paul Stotts was arrested on June 2, 2023, and was booked into Reno County Jail at the time on an attempted murder charge in the 1st degree; Intentional and Premeditated, Aggravated Battery; Knowingly Cause Great Bodily Harm or Disfigurement, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Burglary; Swelling for Felony, Theft, Sex and Violate Protection Order; Condition of Pre-Trial Orders.&nbsp;

At about 1:49 a.m. on June 2, 2023, the Reno County Sheriff's Office were sent to conduct a welfare check on Paul Stotts mother, Jane Stotts at 3503&nbsp;E. 95th Ave. The call was initiated by his father Larry Stotts who arrived at a Loves Gas Station in McPherson with stab wounds, including one in his chest. According to Stanton at the March 8 sentencing, Larry Stotts was stabbed just an 1/8 inch from his aorta.&nbsp;

"I'm going to live in a lifetime of guilt," Paul Stotts said. "I would do anything to get it right with my dad."&nbsp;

The violate protection order was set by the court on Jan. 9, 2023.&nbsp; Paul Stotts violated that order in addition to kidnapping and stabbing his father in the chest in June. The order was put into effect after an incident on Jan. 2, 2023, when deputies from the Reno County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to 3503 E. 95th Ave. in reference to a disturbance at the residence. It was reported that Paul Stotts was yelling at his father Larry Stotts outside the house and threatening him. According to dispatch, Paul Stotts put Larry Stotts in a vehicle and left the area. Deputies found Larry Stotts on foot in the area of 95th Ave. and Tobacco Road. Larry Stotts said Paul let him out of the vehicle.&nbsp;

Paul Stotts stabbed his father in the chest just days before his preliminary hearing on June 5, 2023, for violating the protection order.&nbsp;

Paul Stotts defense attorney Charles C. Lindberg argued for probation under community supervision for Paul Stotts. Some statements from the defendants motion include, Paul Stotts was suffering a major mental health episode at the time of the incident, defendant is willing to continue with treatment programs in the community by recommoned evaluators or supervising officers, the defendant has started mental health counseling and has a significant time period to get stabilized on medications and he has stable housing opportunities at an Oxford House in McPherson, Kansas.&nbsp;

DA Stanton strongly urged District Court Judge Daniel D. Gilligan to deny probation for Paul Stotts. Stanton said there was not sufficient mental health evidence brought before the court.&nbsp;

"Probation is not the place," Stanton said. "We can't take the next chance he won't miss by an 1/8 of an inch."

Larry Stotts spoke at his son's sentencing and also advocated on his behalf that Paul Stotts will be more successful on probation.&nbsp;

"There is a thin line between being an enabler and actual reliable help," Larry Stotts said.&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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710181488366.jpeg" alt="Paul Lee Stotts" />
 <figcaption>Paul Lee Stotts</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Paul Lee Stotts, a 35 year old Hutchinson man, was sentenced to 172 months in prison on an aggravated battery charge and 36 months of post release supervision on a violate protection order on Friday, March 8, 2024. He will also be required to register as a lifetime violent offender.&nbsp;On Jan. 11, 2024, Paul Stotts pleaded guilty to aggravated battery and violate protection order charges connected with causing great bodily harm or disfigurement to another person, his father, Larry Stotts."Paul Stotts is a dangerous, dangerous individual, Reno County District Attorney Thomas Stanton said at the sentencing trial. "He has shown this over and over again."&nbsp;Paul Stotts was arrested on June 2, 2023, and was booked into Reno County Jail at the time on an attempted murder charge in the 1st degree; Intentional and Premeditated, Aggravated Battery; Knowingly Cause Great Bodily Harm or Disfigurement, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Burglary; Swelling for Felony, Theft, Sex and Violate Protection Order; Condition of Pre-Trial Orders.&nbsp;At about 1:49 a.m. on June 2, 2023, the Reno County Sheriff's Office were sent to conduct a welfare check on Paul Stotts mother, Jane Stotts at 3503&nbsp;E. 95th Ave. The call was initiated by his father Larry Stotts who arrived at a Loves Gas Station in McPherson with stab wounds, including one in his chest. According to Stanton at the March 8 sentencing, Larry Stotts was stabbed just an 1/8 inch from his aorta.&nbsp;"I'm going to live in a lifetime of guilt," Paul Stotts said. "I would do anything to get it right with my dad."&nbsp;The violate protection order was set by the court on Jan. 9, 2023.&nbsp; Paul Stotts violated that order in addition to kidnapping and stabbing his father in the chest in June. The order was put into effect after an incident on Jan. 2, 2023, when deputies from the Reno County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to 3503 E. 95th Ave. in reference to a disturbance at the residence. It was reported that Paul Stotts was yelling at his father Larry Stotts outside the house and threatening him. According to dispatch, Paul Stotts put Larry Stotts in a vehicle and left the area. Deputies found Larry Stotts on foot in the area of 95th Ave. and Tobacco Road. Larry Stotts said Paul let him out of the vehicle.&nbsp;Paul Stotts stabbed his father in the chest just days before his preliminary hearing on June 5, 2023, for violating the protection order.&nbsp;Paul Stotts defense attorney Charles C. Lindberg argued for probation under community supervision for Paul Stotts. Some statements from the defendants motion include, Paul Stotts was suffering a major mental health episode at the time of the incident, defendant is willing to continue with treatment programs in the community by recommoned evaluators or supervising officers, the defendant has started mental health counseling and has a significant time period to get stabilized on medications and he has stable housing opportunities at an Oxford House in McPherson, Kansas.&nbsp;DA Stanton strongly urged District Court Judge Daniel D. Gilligan to deny probation for Paul Stotts. Stanton said there was not sufficient mental health evidence brought before the court.&nbsp;"Probation is not the place," Stanton said. "We can't take the next chance he won't miss by an 1/8 of an inch."Larry Stotts spoke at his son's sentencing and also advocated on his behalf that Paul Stotts will be more successful on probation.&nbsp;"There is a thin line between being an enabler and actual reliable help," Larry Stotts said.&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;

Stotts sentenced Friday for injuring his father

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Get ready to rock out with Broadway's Rock of Ages Band®: “The Electrifying Rock Stars from the Original Broadway Cast” as they perform on Thursday, September 12, at 7:30 p.m at the 2024 Kansas State Fair.

Formed by the original cast members of the ground-breaking Broadway smash hit, Rock of Ages, this band of rock star musicians and lead singers brings the energy and excitement of the '80s right to the stage. With a serious commitment to “Performing those MONSTER HITS that helped define the ‘80s”, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band® delivers a concert experience that must be seen to be believed.

Featuring elite musicians and singers from popular rock bands, the band crushes hits from legendary artists like Bon Jovi, Foreigner, Journey, Whitesnake, Poison, Joan Jett, Styx, Pat Benatar, Motley Crue, Twisted Sister, Quiet Riot, and many more — all in one thrilling performance. The lead singers, well-known Broadway stars, deliver vocals with the quality and energy that elevate the concert to a whole new level.

"...the greatest rock band ever assembled for Broadway, period!" raved the NY Daily News. The excitement and energy of '80s rock come alive on stage with Broadway's Rock of Ages Band®, delivering a concert experience that is truly awesome, amazing, and incredible.

No stranger to accolades, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band® was the driving force behind the 5-time Tony nominated show. Their electrifying performances and dedication to the music of the '80s have earned them recognition as one of the most dynamic acts in the industry.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 15 at <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a>. Anyone signed up for Kansas State Fair emails can get access to tickets with a presale code, starting 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 14. Sign up for emails at <a href="http://kansasstatefair.com">kansasstatefair.com</a>.

The show will be Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.

The Kansas State Fair is pleased to unveil an improvement to the Grandstand seating that promises to enhance the overall event experience for attendees. This year, the stage will be repositioned to create space for an extended party pit in the lower track area. This expansion not only boosts overall capacity but also provides more concert enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the excitement up close.

Reserved seating in the Grandstand is $25.

Get up close to the stage! The Track Party Pit area gives concertgoers the opportunity to be on the floor, standing right in front of the stage. Each ticket is $50.

Want the ultimate VIP treatment? This ticket package includes access to the VIP Deck area, two beverage coupons, complimentary appetizers and finger foods within the VIP Deck, and early entrance to the Grandstand. Each VIP Standing ticket is $85.

Get all your friends together with the VIP experience! Reserve a table on our VIP Deck to enjoy the show from a private table that seats six. In addition to a reserved table for six, this package provides two beverage coupons per person, complimentary appetizers and finger foods within the VIP Deck area prior to the show, and early entrance to the Grandstand. Each VIP&nbsp;Reserved Table is $500.

NOTE: Each grandstand ticket includes a gate admission scan. Ticket will be valid on date of event only.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit <a href="http://kansasstatefair.com">kansasstatefair.com</a> or the Ticket Office (620) 669-3618.

<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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710154285610.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State FairHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Get ready to rock out with Broadway's Rock of Ages Band®: “The Electrifying Rock Stars from the Original Broadway Cast” as they perform on Thursday, September 12, at 7:30 p.m at the 2024 Kansas State Fair.Formed by the original cast members of the ground-breaking Broadway smash hit, Rock of Ages, this band of rock star musicians and lead singers brings the energy and excitement of the '80s right to the stage. With a serious commitment to “Performing those MONSTER HITS that helped define the ‘80s”, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band® delivers a concert experience that must be seen to be believed.Featuring elite musicians and singers from popular rock bands, the band crushes hits from legendary artists like Bon Jovi, Foreigner, Journey, Whitesnake, Poison, Joan Jett, Styx, Pat Benatar, Motley Crue, Twisted Sister, Quiet Riot, and many more — all in one thrilling performance. The lead singers, well-known Broadway stars, deliver vocals with the quality and energy that elevate the concert to a whole new level."...the greatest rock band ever assembled for Broadway, period!" raved the NY Daily News. The excitement and energy of '80s rock come alive on stage with Broadway's Rock of Ages Band®, delivering a concert experience that is truly awesome, amazing, and incredible.No stranger to accolades, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band® was the driving force behind the 5-time Tony nominated show. Their electrifying performances and dedication to the music of the '80s have earned them recognition as one of the most dynamic acts in the industry.Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 15 at <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a>. Anyone signed up for Kansas State Fair emails can get access to tickets with a presale code, starting 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 14. Sign up for emails at <a href="http://kansasstatefair.com">kansasstatefair.com</a>.The show will be Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.New in 2024 – Expanded Seating Area:The Kansas State Fair is pleased to unveil an improvement to the Grandstand seating that promises to enhance the overall event experience for attendees. This year, the stage will be repositioned to create space for an extended party pit in the lower track area. This expansion not only boosts overall capacity but also provides more concert enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the excitement up close.Ticket Options:Grandstand SeatingReserved seating in the Grandstand is $25.Track Party PitGet up close to the stage! The Track Party Pit area gives concertgoers the opportunity to be on the floor, standing right in front of the stage. Each ticket is $50.VIP Deck – StandingWant the ultimate VIP treatment? This ticket package includes access to the VIP Deck area, two beverage coupons, complimentary appetizers and finger foods within the VIP Deck, and early entrance to the Grandstand. Each VIP Standing ticket is $85.VIP Deck – Reserved TableGet all your friends together with the VIP experience! Reserve a table on our VIP Deck to enjoy the show from a private table that seats six. In addition to a reserved table for six, this package provides two beverage coupons per person, complimentary appetizers and finger foods within the VIP Deck area prior to the show, and early entrance to the Grandstand. Each VIP&nbsp;Reserved Table is $500.NOTE: Each grandstand ticket includes a gate admission scan. Ticket will be valid on date of event only.To purchase tickets or for more information, visit <a href="http://kansasstatefair.com">kansasstatefair.com</a> or the Ticket Office (620) 669-3618.<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;&nbsp;

Broadway's Rock of Ages Band® Set to Play at the 2024 Kansas State Fair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A woman accused of attempted murder was booked into the Reno County jail on Friday on charges connected with a January incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710169798216.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A woman accused of attempted murder was booked into the Reno County jail on Friday on charges connected with a January incident.Cambi Leigh Colley had a complaint filed against her in Reno County District Court on January 23 for an incident that the complaint says occurred January 21 in Reno County.The complaint says Colley is being jailed for allegedly trying to kill Mavice L Reed-Butters on January 21.Further, the state alleges that the crime in this case is connected with domestic violence and requests that any conviction, if it happens from the incident, be considered a domestic violence offense.Reno County Sheriff Darrian Campbell told Hutch Post that the booking was after transferring Colley back from Larned, but that any further information would need to come from the Hutchinson Police Department, as this is their case.<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;&nbsp;