HARVEY COUNTY—A Newton man was injured in an accident just before 5 p.m. Wednesday.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a homemade golf cart driven by 22-year-old Cale M. Lasiter of Newton was eastbound at 1701 James Court in Newton when Lasiter fell off the vehicle. The golf car left the roadway to the left, overturned and came to rest in a driveway.

EMS transported Lasiter to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

HARVEY COUNTY—A Newton man was injured in an accident just before 5 p.m. Wednesday.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a homemade golf cart driven by 22-year-old Cale M. Lasiter of Newton was eastbound at 1701 James Court in Newton when Lasiter fell off the vehicle. The golf car left the roadway to the left, overturned and came to rest in a driveway.EMS transported Lasiter to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Man from Newton injured after he falls from golf cart

By ROD ZOOK and NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A former Hutchinson police lieutenant has been arrested on suspicion of 24 different counts including rape, kidnapping and sexual battery.

A press conference was held Wednesday afternoon concerning 51-year-old Todd Wade Allen, who was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $250,000.

"When I came into the agency in 2018, shortly thereafter, within three weeks, we had a sexual assault that occurred in one of our parks here in the city of Hutchinson," police chief Jeff Hooper said. "At that time, I was notified by my staff that assault was related to a series of assaults that had been occurring in the city of Hutchinson since 2012. I was also made aware that, to that point, the police department had not released any details to the public. On November 6, 2018, I held a press conference in reference to the series of sexual assaults that were occurring in our community, mostly designed to alert the public of potential dangers to our community and safety precautions they could take, should they encounter another incident that was similar."

It was soon after that 2018 press conference that Allen resigned voluntarily from the department.

"Here most recently, we started having a series of prowler calls and window peeping calls that were occurring in Hutchinson. That information was passed along to our special operations bureau and, more specifically, to our criminal intelligence unit, who set out information in regard to certain patterns of crime, and particular ways that we thought we could combat those prowler calls and window peeping calls," Hooper said.

It was after one of those calls that Allen was detained and questioned. That prompted the department to put the incidents together.

"I am appalled and disgusted that somebody who is a suspect in these type of crimes and this type of behavior ever wore the uniform and this badge that I am honored to pin on my chest every day," Hooper said. "But, I am very proud of this administration and all the men and women that diligently worked on these cases over the last decade and who, today, brought Mr. Allen to justice."

The potential counts include five counts of rape, two counts of kidnapping, nine counts of aggravated sexual battery and five counts of breach of privacy.

Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton reminded the media at Wednesday's press conference that the arrest is just that, and that any suspect has to be dealt with through the justice system and is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Below is press conference video from Wednesday...

<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/2022/8/1660773528862.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK and NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A former Hutchinson police lieutenant has been arrested on suspicion of 24 different counts including rape, kidnapping and sexual battery.A press conference was held Wednesday afternoon concerning 51-year-old Todd Wade Allen, who was booked into the Reno County Correctional Facility on a bond of $250,000."When I came into the agency in 2018, shortly thereafter, within three weeks, we had a sexual assault that occurred in one of our parks here in the city of Hutchinson," police chief Jeff Hooper said. "At that time, I was notified by my staff that assault was related to a series of assaults that had been occurring in the city of Hutchinson since 2012. I was also made aware that, to that point, the police department had not released any details to the public. On November 6, 2018, I held a press conference in reference to the series of sexual assaults that were occurring in our community, mostly designed to alert the public of potential dangers to our community and safety precautions they could take, should they encounter another incident that was similar."It was soon after that 2018 press conference that Allen resigned voluntarily from the department."Here most recently, we started having a series of prowler calls and window peeping calls that were occurring in Hutchinson. That information was passed along to our special operations bureau and, more specifically, to our criminal intelligence unit, who set out information in regard to certain patterns of crime, and particular ways that we thought we could combat those prowler calls and window peeping calls," Hooper said.It was after one of those calls that Allen was detained and questioned. That prompted the department to put the incidents together."I am appalled and disgusted that somebody who is a suspect in these type of crimes and this type of behavior ever wore the uniform and this badge that I am honored to pin on my chest every day," Hooper said. "But, I am very proud of this administration and all the men and women that diligently worked on these cases over the last decade and who, today, brought Mr. Allen to justice."The potential counts include five counts of rape, two counts of kidnapping, nine counts of aggravated sexual battery and five counts of breach of privacy.Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton reminded the media at Wednesday's press conference that the arrest is just that, and that any suspect has to be dealt with through the justice system and is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.Below is press conference video from Wednesday...<div><iframe width="960" height="540" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aE9p9HzzShQ" title="Press Conference for arrest of Serial Sexual Predator 08/17/2022" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><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;

Former Hutchinson police officer arrested on sex crime charges

Hutchinson and Reno County will celebrate 150 years during Third Thursday in August. In honor of this celebration, we will release one decade each afternoon from The Decades, which were originally featured from September to November of 2021.

As we celebrate the 150th birthday of Hutchinson and Reno County, we want to go through the years, decade by decade, to see how things have changed and — remarkably — how they have stayed the same. This would not be possible without the efforts of Steve Harmon, the Reno County Museum, and the Hutchinson Public Library, who have made a great effort to supply us with the information and photos that you’ll see in this 15-part series. We hope you enjoy it.

Many changes were a part of the 1960s, including a new home for Hutchinson High School, air passenger service in Hutchinson and the start of what is now one of the premier museums in the United States. That and more as we look back on the 1960s.

1960:&nbsp;Dillons Stores looks for an easier way for shoppers who need just a few things when it opens its first Kwik Shop. The partnership continues through 2018 when Kroger sold off the chain.&nbsp;

Kwik Shop - New Prototype Store - 507 E. 30th - 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

There are conflicting dates as to when this project was completed, but in 1961, the Farmers Commission grain elevator was in full operation. It is still the second-longest single-head house elevator in the world.

Farmers Commission Co. - Grain Elevator B - 6th &amp; Halstead. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

Sen. John F. Kennedy speaks at the Sports Arena.

Captain Kangaroo entertains a large crowd of children at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

A gas explosion rips through the community of Haven, destroying the Haven Journal and two other buildings.

Dillons expands with a new distribution center on the city's east side.

J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons - Distribution Center - Architect's Painting as it was constructed in 1960 - 2700 E. 4th (Grocery Whse. Offices, Produce &amp; Frozen Food Whse.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

Air passenger service comes to Hutchinson as Central Airlines. Eventually, the airline becomes Frontier Airlines.

The Hutchinson Fire Department builds a new training tower in Sylvan Park.

High school students in Hutchinson have a new home as the new Hutchinson High School is built at 13th and Severance.

Hutchinson High School Aerial at Opening &amp; Sports Arena - June 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

1961:&nbsp;The Hutchinson Planetarium is opened by Patty Carey in a chicken coop at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Her love of space and the vision of others is now on full display at the Cosmosphere, which is now one of the premier space museums in the world. The museum is one of just two that has a spacecraft flown in all three Cold War programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo.

Planetarium - Patty Carey (right) at original fairgrounds location - c. 1962. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

In an effort to preserve the history of Hutchinson and Reno County, the Reno County Historical Society was formed.

Although you still have to stand in line for some state and county business, it was in 1961 that the state began to mail out license plates to residents.

A military plane crashes in Reno County. Crews were able to parachute to safety.

Hutchinson taxpayers form the Taxpayers League to promote better government.

1962:&nbsp;Fairfield High School opened in Abbyville. Today it is located just north of the community of Langdon.

Softball-sized hail hammers the area, causing more than $6 million in damages. The total would be $55 million in 2021.

Although it is well within the city limits today, Union Valley residents fought against annexation by the city in 1962.

Construction of a dam begins in southern Reno County in what would eventually become Cheney Reservoir.

Cheney Dam flood gate. Photo courtesy of Floyd Sounders.

Former President Harry S. Truman speaks at the Sports Arena.

&nbsp;1963:&nbsp;Many great events have come and gone from Reno County, but many still stand today, including the Abbyville Frontier Days Rodeo, which started in 1963.

The first Reno County Museum opened in 1963. The museum was located in several rooms of the home of Goldie Maupin, who was president of the historical society at that time.

Consolidation of school districts continues as county districts are redrawn again.

IRS agents raid the Eagles Club and seize slot machines.

More than 48,000 residents receive the Sabin polio vaccine in an effort to eradicate infantile paralysis.

Clowntown Kiddieland - 1960 - Train Ride (Thad Stevens conductor). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

1964:&nbsp;Still entertaining today, the Hutchinson Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1964.

As consolidation of school districts continues, voters in Arlington approve the closing of Arlington High School.

The police department makes the decision to stop escorting funeral processions.&nbsp;

Dog owners are unhappy with the city’s new ordinance that requires all dogs to be in a fenced yard or on a leash.

As the Cold War escalates, Kansas State University advises the public about when it would be safe to exit a fallout shelter if the U.S. were attacked.

1965:&nbsp;Trinity High School is built at 17th and Lorraine.

Trinity High School - 1400 E. 17th - 1965 (At completion by N.F. English Const.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

After standing proud in Hutchinson for so many years, the Bisonte Hotel catches fire during demolition, bringing a quick end to the hotel's demise.&nbsp;

Flooding hits the town of Nickerson as residents are forced to use sandbags to protect property.

The Ultra Van powered by a Corvair engine and transaxle was designed by David Peterson in the early '60s. These units were produced in limited quantities by Ultra, Inc. of Hutchinson, Kansas, until June of 1970.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ultra Van at Airbase Mfg. Plant - 1965 to 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

The Hutchinson News was awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1965.

After years of military service, the old naval base has new life as it becomes the Hutchinson Air Base Industrial Tract. Today it is still home to various industries, The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and a popular glider port.

Hutchinson Airbase Industrial Tract (H.A.B.I.T) at old Naval Air Station (aerial) - c. 1960s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

Hutchinson Junior College is taken under the reins of the state. The college had been run as a division of the Hutchinson School District. The college and the high school still have a close working relationship today.

Unable to secure more space downtown, Sears builds the Sears Shopping Plaza at the corner of 1st and Adams.

Sears Plaza Center (New) - 15 N. Adams - c. 1968 (with Jack &amp; Jill Grocery #1 - 5 S. Adams). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

The planetarium moves to the campus of Hutchinson Junior College, now the site of the Cosmosphere.

Hutchinson Jr. College - Kennedy Library &amp; Planetarium finished construction - 11th &amp; Plum - 1965 (Later Became Cosmosphere). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

After four years of construction, Cheney Reservoir is finished.

1966:&nbsp;Local doctors were found to have blocked free chest X-rays for five years, citing opposition to government encroachment into the private practice of medicine.

A new innovation aids police in catching speeders as Hutchinson begins using radar.

In what was the driest year on record, Reno County received just a little more than 13 inches of rain for the year.

Main Street Looking South from First - 1963 (showing B &amp; G Hosiery - 28 N. Main, Anthony's - 22-24 N. Main &amp; Gordons - 18 N. Main). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

The Human Relations Commission was formed in 1966 at the urging of the NAACP.

Mildred Baughman becomes the first woman in the state of Kansas to hold the office of county commissioners. She went on to serve for 25 years.

A new thing called a "computer" kickstarts a business in Hutchinson called the Data Center Inc.

The Dillons Northgate Shopping Center is built at 30th and Plum.

Dillons Northgate - 30th &amp; Plum - 1966 (old Kwik Shop move). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

1967:&nbsp;Unable to receive any help from Reno County tax dollars, the Reno County Museum moves to Haven.

People read her advice column for years, but in 1967, Ann Landers spoke in Hutchinson.

The year after six residents die in the Broadacres County Home, Reno County commissioners approve air conditioning for the facility.

The Daisy BB gun shooting championships are held at Gowans Stadium July 7-9.

Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier, provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor.

Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier,&nbsp;provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor.

Old brine wells erupt in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Haven postal carrier Homer Astle retires after carrying mail on the same route for 46 years.

A danger that still exists today, a large prairie fire consumes the northern part of Reno County.

1968:&nbsp;A runaway train leaves Hutchinson heading west. The train travels 78 miles before it is derailed in the small town of Kinsley.

Wheat continues to be the crop in Reno County with a record 11.4 million bushels harvested.

Reno County servicemen write home about the horrors of the Vietnam War as local casualties increase.&nbsp;

USD 312 patrons approve a $1 million bond issue to build a new high school.

A popular event still held each year in Nickerson, the first Klear Nearly Days event is held in 1968.

The Fair Housing Ordinance was passed by the city of Hutchinson, outlawing discrimination in housing.

The Hutchinson Community College debate team wins the national title.&nbsp;

Hutchinson and Reno County will celebrate 150 years during Third Thursday in August. In honor of this celebration, we will release one decade each afternoon from The Decades, which were originally featured from September to November of 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629504018461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As we celebrate the 150th birthday of Hutchinson and Reno County, we want to go through the years, decade by decade, to see how things have changed and — remarkably — how they have stayed the same. This would not be possible without the efforts of Steve Harmon, the Reno County Museum, and the Hutchinson Public Library, who have made a great effort to supply us with the information and photos that you’ll see in this 15-part series. We hope you enjoy it.Many changes were a part of the 1960s, including a new home for Hutchinson High School, air passenger service in Hutchinson and the start of what is now one of the premier museums in the United States. That and more as we look back on the 1960s.1960:&nbsp;Dillons Stores looks for an easier way for shoppers who need just a few things when it opens its first Kwik Shop. The partnership continues through 2018 when Kroger sold off the chain.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634165961952.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kwik Shop - New Prototype Store - 507 E. 30th - 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.There are conflicting dates as to when this project was completed, but in 1961, the Farmers Commission grain elevator was in full operation. It is still the second-longest single-head house elevator in the world.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072902572.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Farmers Commission Co. - Grain Elevator B - 6th &amp; Halstead. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Sen. John F. Kennedy speaks at the Sports Arena.Captain Kangaroo entertains a large crowd of children at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.A gas explosion rips through the community of Haven, destroying the Haven Journal and two other buildings.Dillons expands with a new distribution center on the city's east side.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166251432.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>J.S. Dillon &amp; Sons - Distribution Center - Architect's Painting as it was constructed in 1960 - 2700 E. 4th (Grocery Whse. Offices, Produce &amp; Frozen Food Whse.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Air passenger service comes to Hutchinson as Central Airlines. Eventually, the airline becomes Frontier Airlines.The Hutchinson Fire Department builds a new training tower in Sylvan Park.High school students in Hutchinson have a new home as the new Hutchinson High School is built at 13th and Severance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072861636.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson High School Aerial at Opening &amp; Sports Arena - June 1960. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.1961:&nbsp;The Hutchinson Planetarium is opened by Patty Carey in a chicken coop at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Her love of space and the vision of others is now on full display at the Cosmosphere, which is now one of the premier space museums in the world. The museum is one of just two that has a spacecraft flown in all three Cold War programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166653512.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Planetarium - Patty Carey (right) at original fairgrounds location - c. 1962. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.In an effort to preserve the history of Hutchinson and Reno County, the Reno County Historical Society was formed.Although you still have to stand in line for some state and county business, it was in 1961 that the state began to mail out license plates to residents.A military plane crashes in Reno County. Crews were able to parachute to safety.Hutchinson taxpayers form the Taxpayers League to promote better government.1962:&nbsp;Fairfield High School opened in Abbyville. Today it is located just north of the community of Langdon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595965876065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Softball-sized hail hammers the area, causing more than $6 million in damages. The total would be $55 million in 2021.Although it is well within the city limits today, Union Valley residents fought against annexation by the city in 1962.Construction of a dam begins in southern Reno County in what would eventually become Cheney Reservoir.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166566897.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Cheney Dam flood gate. Photo courtesy of Floyd Sounders.Former President Harry S. Truman speaks at the Sports Arena.&nbsp;1963:&nbsp;Many great events have come and gone from Reno County, but many still stand today, including the Abbyville Frontier Days Rodeo, which started in 1963.The first Reno County Museum opened in 1963. The museum was located in several rooms of the home of Goldie Maupin, who was president of the historical society at that time.The first Reno County 4H fair was held.Consolidation of school districts continues as county districts are redrawn again.IRS agents raid the Eagles Club and seize slot machines.More than 48,000 residents receive the Sabin polio vaccine in an effort to eradicate infantile paralysis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166686551.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clowntown Kiddieland - 1960 - Train Ride (Thad Stevens conductor). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.1964:&nbsp;Still entertaining today, the Hutchinson Symphony Orchestra was formed in 1964.As consolidation of school districts continues, voters in Arlington approve the closing of Arlington High School.The police department makes the decision to stop escorting funeral processions.&nbsp;Dog owners are unhappy with the city’s new ordinance that requires all dogs to be in a fenced yard or on a leash.As the Cold War escalates, Kansas State University advises the public about when it would be safe to exit a fallout shelter if the U.S. were attacked.1965:&nbsp;Trinity High School is built at 17th and Lorraine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073623550.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trinity High School - 1400 E. 17th - 1965 (At completion by N.F. English Const.). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.After standing proud in Hutchinson for so many years, the Bisonte Hotel catches fire during demolition, bringing a quick end to the hotel's demise.&nbsp;Flooding hits the town of Nickerson as residents are forced to use sandbags to protect property.The Ultra Van powered by a Corvair engine and transaxle was designed by David Peterson in the early '60s. These units were produced in limited quantities by Ultra, Inc. of Hutchinson, Kansas, until June of 1970.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166737095.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ultra Van at Airbase Mfg. Plant - 1965 to 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.The Hutchinson News was awarded a Pulitzer Prize in 1965.After years of military service, the old naval base has new life as it becomes the Hutchinson Air Base Industrial Tract. Today it is still home to various industries, The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and a popular glider port.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073042325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Airbase Industrial Tract (H.A.B.I.T) at old Naval Air Station (aerial) - c. 1960s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Hutchinson Junior College is taken under the reins of the state. The college had been run as a division of the Hutchinson School District. The college and the high school still have a close working relationship today.Unable to secure more space downtown, Sears builds the Sears Shopping Plaza at the corner of 1st and Adams.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073499749.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sears Plaza Center (New) - 15 N. Adams - c. 1968 (with Jack &amp; Jill Grocery #1 - 5 S. Adams). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.The planetarium moves to the campus of Hutchinson Junior College, now the site of the Cosmosphere.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634167010072.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Jr. College - Kennedy Library &amp; Planetarium finished construction - 11th &amp; Plum - 1965 (Later Became Cosmosphere). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.After four years of construction, Cheney Reservoir is finished.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073322260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>1966:&nbsp;Local doctors were found to have blocked free chest X-rays for five years, citing opposition to government encroachment into the private practice of medicine.A new innovation aids police in catching speeders as Hutchinson begins using radar.In what was the driest year on record, Reno County received just a little more than 13 inches of rain for the year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634167055991.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Main Street Looking South from First - 1963 (showing B &amp; G Hosiery - 28 N. Main, Anthony's - 22-24 N. Main &amp; Gordons - 18 N. Main). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.The Human Relations Commission was formed in 1966 at the urging of the NAACP.Mildred Baughman becomes the first woman in the state of Kansas to hold the office of county commissioners. She went on to serve for 25 years.A new thing called a "computer" kickstarts a business in Hutchinson called the Data Center Inc.The Dillons Northgate Shopping Center is built at 30th and Plum.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072991998.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dillons Northgate - 30th &amp; Plum - 1966 (old Kwik Shop move). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.1967:&nbsp;Unable to receive any help from Reno County tax dollars, the Reno County Museum moves to Haven.People read her advice column for years, but in 1967, Ann Landers spoke in Hutchinson.The year after six residents die in the Broadacres County Home, Reno County commissioners approve air conditioning for the facility.The Daisy BB gun shooting championships are held at Gowans Stadium July 7-9.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634741339212.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier, provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634764009733.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Daisy National BB Gun Championships. Photo courtesy of Jerry Regier,&nbsp;provided by the Daisy Company, Lawrence Taylor.Old brine wells erupt in South Hutchinson.&nbsp;Haven postal carrier Homer Astle retires after carrying mail on the same route for 46 years.A danger that still exists today, a large prairie fire consumes the northern part of Reno County.1968:&nbsp;A runaway train leaves Hutchinson heading west. The train travels 78 miles before it is derailed in the small town of Kinsley.Wheat continues to be the crop in Reno County with a record 11.4 million bushels harvested.Reno County servicemen write home about the horrors of the Vietnam War as local casualties increase.&nbsp;USD 312 patrons approve a $1 million bond issue to build a new high school.A popular event still held each year in Nickerson, the first Klear Nearly Days event is held in 1968.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073278060.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Fair Housing Ordinance was passed by the city of Hutchinson, outlawing discrimination in housing.The Hutchinson Community College debate team wins the national title.&nbsp;Thousands of trees die from Dutch elm disease.The reformatory supervisor resigns after months of controversy over financial irregularities and an investigation by the governor's panel.1969:&nbsp;What might have been for Hutchinson, no one will ever know for sure, but the new interstate system route does not go through Hutchinson, instead taking a route to the east through Newton.The Board of Trade diminishes use of the Wiley Building, eventually closing. When the Wiley Building was renovated, 2013 papers, maps and most everything that was a part of the board was still there.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634072661589.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wiley Bldg. - N.E. Cor. 1st &amp; Main.New telephones allow Hutchinson residents to make their own long-distance phone calls.Vietnam protesters march down Main Street and hold a rally in Sylvan Park.In what was finally an end to consolidation in the county, the number of school districts is reduced to six. There were 88 in 1948.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634166047032.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wesley Towers Construction - 1969. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Addition: We are asking for your memories of events that happened up to the current date. Here are some of the things one reader shared with us about the 1950s and 1960s — Kathy says some of her memories include:Sitting on Random Road watching movies playing at the drive-in.Dragging Main with the turnaround at Sandy’s Drive-In.Going to the rodeo at the Sports Arena.Going roller skating at the Rollerena.Taking swimming lessons at Carey Park.Having the Morgan Grade School teacher walk the entire class to Dairy Queen on the last day of school.And finally, shopping at Pegues and Wileys — the only places you could buy dresses in town.Thanks for sharing!The Decades are brought to you by: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfc.com/">Hutchinson Funeral Chapel</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rothefloors/">Rothe Family Flooring</a> <a href="https://www.hutchpl.org/">Hutchinson Public Library</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.

150 Years: Looking back through The Decades - 1960s

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Dr. Bradford Wiles with Kansas State University told Hutch Post Wednesday that he has about a third of the number of responses they need for good data on the Reno County child care survey.

"Honestly, we need more responses from the community," Wiles said. "It's important that we get as many voices as we can. You don't have to be part of the childcare world. If you're just a resident of Reno County or you work in Reno County, we would like your information. We want your perspective. We ask questions about their perceptions of childcare and what they see as needs in their communities."

You can take the survey <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3P3R8gHnDpsUHXg">here</a>.

"I plan to keep it open for another two weeks," Wiles said. "We really want to understand what those who are looking for care and those who have care are experiencing. Often, for those who have care, it's really suboptimal. What I mean by that is, okay, so you have care for one of your children at one place and another of your children at another, or you have care, but it's bouncing between mom's house, an aunt and uncle's house, to sister's house."

They are also still looking for focus group members.

"You won't make the kinds of improvements that you need, if you don't have the full perspective," Wiles said. "If you do that, you get a $25 gift certificate to Walmart or Dillons or Amazon."

If you have questions about the focus groups, you can call Danielle Skurka at 785-532-1939.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653072676294.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Dr. Bradford Wiles with Kansas State University told Hutch Post Wednesday that he has about a third of the number of responses they need for good data on the Reno County child care survey."Honestly, we need more responses from the community," Wiles said. "It's important that we get as many voices as we can. You don't have to be part of the childcare world. If you're just a resident of Reno County or you work in Reno County, we would like your information. We want your perspective. We ask questions about their perceptions of childcare and what they see as needs in their communities."You can take the survey <a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3P3R8gHnDpsUHXg">here</a>."I plan to keep it open for another two weeks," Wiles said. "We really want to understand what those who are looking for care and those who have care are experiencing. Often, for those who have care, it's really suboptimal. What I mean by that is, okay, so you have care for one of your children at one place and another of your children at another, or you have care, but it's bouncing between mom's house, an aunt and uncle's house, to sister's house."They are also still looking for focus group members."You won't make the kinds of improvements that you need, if you don't have the full perspective," Wiles said. "If you do that, you get a $25 gift certificate to Walmart or Dillons or Amazon."If you have questions about the focus groups, you can call Danielle Skurka at 785-532-1939.

Wiles: More child care survey respondents needed

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Advance voting is underway for patrons in two area school districts with major bond proposals on the ballot.

Mailed out ballots went out last week for patrons in Hesston USD 460 for a $33.8 million bond proposal. If approved by voters, the money would be used to fund a major expansion at the current high school and move the middle school students to that location. It also calls for a new gymnasium, a new auditorium, major renovations to the current fine arts area and improved infrastructure.

Advance voting is underway at the Harvey County Clerk's office in Newton during regular business hours with the general vote on the bond issue set for Aug. 30.

In Pretty Prairie USD 311 mailed out ballots are going out to patrons in that school district as they prepare to vote on a $10.4 million bond proposal. Advance voting in person gets underway Monday, Aug. 22 at the Reno County Clerk’s office at the annex.&nbsp;

The funds would go to make major renovations to the Middle School gymnasium making it the major sporting venue. It also includes expanded locker rooms, a concession area and more space. The funds would also make major repairs and provide maintenance to all of the district's facilities.

The general vote on the bond issue is Tuesday, Sept. 6.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659368839996.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Advance voting is underway for patrons in two area school districts with major bond proposals on the ballot.Mailed out ballots went out last week for patrons in Hesston USD 460 for a $33.8 million bond proposal. If approved by voters, the money would be used to fund a major expansion at the current high school and move the middle school students to that location. It also calls for a new gymnasium, a new auditorium, major renovations to the current fine arts area and improved infrastructure.Advance voting is underway at the Harvey County Clerk's office in Newton during regular business hours with the general vote on the bond issue set for Aug. 30.In Pretty Prairie USD 311 mailed out ballots are going out to patrons in that school district as they prepare to vote on a $10.4 million bond proposal. Advance voting in person gets underway Monday, Aug. 22 at the Reno County Clerk’s office at the annex.&nbsp;The funds would go to make major renovations to the Middle School gymnasium making it the major sporting venue. It also includes expanded locker rooms, a concession area and more space. The funds would also make major repairs and provide maintenance to all of the district's facilities.The general vote on the bond issue is Tuesday, Sept. 6.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update&nbsp;&nbsp;

Voting under way in two school bond proposals

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County EMS reports that Special Projects Chief Monika Heller was elected to the Kansas EMS Association board of directors at their meeting last week. 

Chief Dave Johnston finished his term as the KEMSA board president on Saturday. He will remain an active board member.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660750545179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County EMS reports that Special Projects Chief Monika Heller was elected to the Kansas EMS Association board of directors at their meeting last week. Chief Dave Johnston finished his term as the KEMSA board president on Saturday. He will remain an active board member.&nbsp;

Second Reno County EMS official named to state board

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Despite still being plagued by staffing and equipment shortages, ridership aboard Amtrak's Southwest Chief increased in the month of June.

Figures released by Amtrak show that 26,600 passengers used the “Chief” in June. That compares to 19,200 in May. Total ridership for the fiscal year is 154,300. The June numbers reflect the first full month that Amtrak restored daily service to the “Chief” after cutting back to five days per week due to staffing issues.&nbsp;

Amtrak recently celebrated the complete renovation of the Hutchinson train station as part of a nationwide effort to make stations more ADA friendly. About 4,000 Amtrak passengers use the Hutchinson train station each year.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580416889608.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Despite still being plagued by staffing and equipment shortages, ridership aboard Amtrak's Southwest Chief increased in the month of June.Figures released by Amtrak show that 26,600 passengers used the “Chief” in June. That compares to 19,200 in May. Total ridership for the fiscal year is 154,300. The June numbers reflect the first full month that Amtrak restored daily service to the “Chief” after cutting back to five days per week due to staffing issues.&nbsp;Amtrak recently celebrated the complete renovation of the Hutchinson train station as part of a nationwide effort to make stations more ADA friendly. About 4,000 Amtrak passengers use the Hutchinson train station each year.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.

Amtrak ridership increases aboard Southwest Chief

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council expressed its support for the restart of a youth city council program at its meeting on Tuesday. Heather Jobe is on the youth city council advisory board.

"We think it's important for them to learn civic engagement," Jobe said. "We think it's important for them to develop leadership skills. We think it's important for them to have a voice here in Hutchinson in our community."

The goal is to have both middle school and high school students involved.

"There would be five members to the board," Jobe said. "They would have a president, a vice president, a treasurer, a secretary and an activities director. The vice president and secretary would be reserved for seventh and eighth grade positions only. The president, activities director and treasurer would be reserved for high school members only."

This would be for students whose schools all lie in the Hutchinson city limits only. 

"We want to get this going as soon as possible," Jobe said. "We want to get applications out to the school as early as next week."

Students who are interested should check with their building principals in the coming weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660748066248.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council expressed its support for the restart of a youth city council program at its meeting on Tuesday. Heather Jobe is on the youth city council advisory board."We think it's important for them to learn civic engagement," Jobe said. "We think it's important for them to develop leadership skills. We think it's important for them to have a voice here in Hutchinson in our community."The goal is to have both middle school and high school students involved."There would be five members to the board," Jobe said. "They would have a president, a vice president, a treasurer, a secretary and an activities director. The vice president and secretary would be reserved for seventh and eighth grade positions only. The president, activities director and treasurer would be reserved for high school members only."This would be for students whose schools all lie in the Hutchinson city limits only. "We want to get this going as soon as possible," Jobe said. "We want to get applications out to the school as early as next week."Students who are interested should check with their building principals in the coming weeks.

Youth city council to restart

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A Hutchinson man is bringing a book of local history to Thursday's block party event. Bob Summers wrote Mills and Elevators 1871-2021 when he couldn't find that information elsewhere.

"I really didn't set out to write a book," Summers said. "A few years ago after I retired, I went down to the historical society, stopped in, asked them what they had on the grain industry. They sent me up to a reading room or a library upstairs and told me to look around and I found one file on one prominent grain man and kind of went away wondering, you know, maybe they ought to get some more."

Summers realized that he was one of the last people who would remember working at the Hutchinson Board of Trade.

"The Wiley Building, the Wiley stores and their tea room occupied the bottom four floors and their offices and so on," Summers said. "The top four floors, plus the penthouse on top, was over half grain firms. The Board of Trade itself was on the eighth floor. The ninth floor penthouse, which was a walk-up, is where the Kansas state grain inspection was. But, in those days, until the late fifties or early sixties, all the grain firms were local."

It's the facilities local to Hutchinson and Reno County that are part of the book, even though the currently operating ones are run by non-local firms.

"I wrote a series of essays that we posted on the internet, one a week, on different facilities, in chronological order, starting back in the 1870s here in Hutchinson, up to current," Summers said. "There's a narrative on each facility and then there's photos, vintage photos where they were available, and current photos for current facilities that I took. There's about 44 facilities indicated."

The book will be on sale in the 500 block of North Main for $30 including tax during the 150th celebration block party Thursday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660742865362.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — A Hutchinson man is bringing a book of local history to Thursday's block party event. Bob Summers wrote Mills and Elevators 1871-2021 when he couldn't find that information elsewhere."I really didn't set out to write a book," Summers said. "A few years ago after I retired, I went down to the historical society, stopped in, asked them what they had on the grain industry. They sent me up to a reading room or a library upstairs and told me to look around and I found one file on one prominent grain man and kind of went away wondering, you know, maybe they ought to get some more."Summers realized that he was one of the last people who would remember working at the Hutchinson Board of Trade."The Wiley Building, the Wiley stores and their tea room occupied the bottom four floors and their offices and so on," Summers said. "The top four floors, plus the penthouse on top, was over half grain firms. The Board of Trade itself was on the eighth floor. The ninth floor penthouse, which was a walk-up, is where the Kansas state grain inspection was. But, in those days, until the late fifties or early sixties, all the grain firms were local."It's the facilities local to Hutchinson and Reno County that are part of the book, even though the currently operating ones are run by non-local firms."I wrote a series of essays that we posted on the internet, one a week, on different facilities, in chronological order, starting back in the 1870s here in Hutchinson, up to current," Summers said. "There's a narrative on each facility and then there's photos, vintage photos where they were available, and current photos for current facilities that I took. There's about 44 facilities indicated."The book will be on sale in the 500 block of North Main for $30 including tax during the 150th celebration block party Thursday night.

Grain industry book to be for sale Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — School is getting underway around Hutchinson. Classes began in Buhler USD 313 on Tuesday and grades K-9 will start classes in Hutchinson USD 308 this morning. The remaining students in grades 10-12 kick off the school year on Thursday.

One trend that has appeared for at least a couple of school districts is the change in virtual enrollment. In Hutchinson USD 308, the virtual enrollment is currently at 152. At the end of last year, it was 222. The same is said for Haven USD 312, where virtual enrollment for this year totals 28, compared with 48 last year.&nbsp;

Numbers are still being put together for Nickerson USD 309. Many students took to virtual school during the pandemic and some found it as a way to get an education without having to attend class. Some of the downfalls of virtual school for most districts is having to work to stay engaged in classes and not being able to participate in extracurricular activities. Some of those factors and an easing of the pandemic may be driving students back to classrooms.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659968269275.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — School is getting underway around Hutchinson. Classes began in Buhler USD 313 on Tuesday and grades K-9 will start classes in Hutchinson USD 308 this morning. The remaining students in grades 10-12 kick off the school year on Thursday.One trend that has appeared for at least a couple of school districts is the change in virtual enrollment. In Hutchinson USD 308, the virtual enrollment is currently at 152. At the end of last year, it was 222. The same is said for Haven USD 312, where virtual enrollment for this year totals 28, compared with 48 last year.&nbsp;Numbers are still being put together for Nickerson USD 309. Many students took to virtual school during the pandemic and some found it as a way to get an education without having to attend class. Some of the downfalls of virtual school for most districts is having to work to stay engaged in classes and not being able to participate in extracurricular activities. Some of those factors and an easing of the pandemic may be driving students back to classrooms.<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.

School year kicking off around Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Normally, the Hutchinson Chamber luncheon is held on the third Wednesday of the month. This month, however, the event is pushed back a week to Aug. 24 at 11:45 at Friendly Bingo, 106 W. 1st Ave.&nbsp;

This month's luncheon is sponsored by Mennonite Friendship Communities. The speaker is Bryan Schulz, General Manager of the Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;

Lunch is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the Chamber at 620-662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635351049170.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Normally, the Hutchinson Chamber luncheon is held on the third Wednesday of the month. This month, however, the event is pushed back a week to Aug. 24 at 11:45 at Friendly Bingo, 106 W. 1st Ave.&nbsp;This month's luncheon is sponsored by Mennonite Friendship Communities. The speaker is Bryan Schulz, General Manager of the Kansas State Fair.&nbsp;Lunch is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the Chamber at 620-662-3391.<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.

Chamber lunch is Aug. 24

Still another war is upon us with the Korean conflict. Hutchinson is growing rapidly with many big construction projects, including the Hutchinson Sports Arena. That and more on this edition of The Decades.&nbsp;

1950:&nbsp;City residents approve an $87,000 bond issue to establish a municipal refuse collection program. The money is used for startup and equipment costs.

Coberly Drugs - Larkland Shopping Center at Completion - 1956. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

The Kansas State Fair builds an administration building.

The city attempts to acquire water works, but is unsuccessful as the council votes 4-1 against the purchase.&nbsp;

Prairie fires rage through the area as dry, windy conditions hit the area.

A dedication ceremony is held for the completion of the K-61 Highway renovation project from Hutchinson to Pratt.

Adela Hale Business School - 428 E. 1st &amp; Plum - Late 1950s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

The Korean War brings on a shortage of automobiles. The Reno County Draft Board calls men into service once again.

The U.S. Postal Service is a major news topic today. In 1950, the post office announced it was dropping mail delivery from two times per day to one. A complete street address is necessary for delivery.

1951:&nbsp;The Hutchinson Public Library is officially dedicated at 9th and Main.

Hutchinson New Public Library - 901 N. Main - 1953. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

Wait till the Sun Shines Nellie is filmed in parts of Hutchinson, Nickerson, Pretty Prairie and Castleton.

Draft calls increase as the Korean War intensifies.

A severe storm blows through Sylvia; numerous buildings and power lines damaged; bridges are washed out.

Voters approve a $485,000 bond to make major renovations to Convention Hall. Today it is, of course, Memorial Hall.

In a more significant project, voters also approve a $994,000 bond issue to build the Hutchinson Sports Arena. Today, that would be $10.4 million.

Sports Arena at Finish of Construction - 1953. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

Fan Dancer Sally Rand performs at the Kansas State Fair.

The flood control project that was started in the 1940s is still not finished as the project is put on hold during the Korean War.

The city establishes parking meters in the downtown area to keep motorists from taking up parking spaces. The city plans to use the revenue to establish off-street parking.

Wiley Bldg. - N.E. Cor. 1st &amp; Main - c. 1950. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

1952:&nbsp;The&nbsp;Hutchinson Sports Arena is finished. The first NJCAA National Basketball Tournament is held there.

More than 15,000 spectators fill up the state fair grandstands for stock car races.

A.R. King, who was the Reno County superintendent who served on the Hutchinson School Board for 12 years, died.

Kansas State Fair attendance estimated at 395,000.

The naval air station was reactivated for the war effort.

Hutchinson Naval Air Station - Over The Tower. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

A record 8.9 million bushels of wheat is harvested in the county.

The movie Wait till the Sun Shines Nellie premieres in Hutchinson. Hollywood stars attend and the parade draws more than 20,000 spectators.

A dial telephone service is established in the area.

John Crutcher, real estate broker and active in the American Legion, is elected to the Kansas State Senate.

The city releases a pie chart showing what percentage of each tax dollar goes to in the city.

13% is for airports, parks and auditoriums

All city employees are given a 5% pay increase

11th Avenue is widened to accommodate traffic around the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

1953:&nbsp;Armistice Day; the Korean War is over — 800 county residents served, 17 died in the war.

The VFW clubhouse is built near the 4th Avenue viaduct.

Grace Episcopal Church Exterior at Completion - 2 Hyde Park Dr. - Late 1951. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

With debt service eating up a quarter of the budget, the city establishes a longterm capital improvement budget.

Four modern elementary schools are built. They are McCandless, Morgan, Wiley and Graber.

The new administration building is finished at the municipal airport.

Hutchinson New Terminal &amp; Control Tower - c. 1954. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.

A big day at the Kansas State Fair as 141 marching bands perform.

Hutchinson and Reno County will celebrate 150 years during Third Thursday in August. In honor of this celebration, we will release one decade each afternoon from The Decades, which were originally featured from September to November of 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629504018461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As we celebrate the 150th birthday of Hutchinson and Reno County, we want to go through the years, decade by decade, to see how things have changed and — remarkably — how they have stayed the same. This would not be possible without the efforts of Steve Harmon, the Reno County Museum, and the Hutchinson Public Library, who have made a great effort to supply us with the information and photos that you’ll see in this 15-part series. We hope you enjoy it.Still another war is upon us with the Korean conflict. Hutchinson is growing rapidly with many big construction projects, including the Hutchinson Sports Arena. That and more on this edition of The Decades.&nbsp;1950:&nbsp;City residents approve an $87,000 bond issue to establish a municipal refuse collection program. The money is used for startup and equipment costs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633378086712.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Coberly Drugs - Larkland Shopping Center at Completion - 1956. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.The Kansas State Fair builds an administration building.The population of Hutchinson is 33,579.The city attempts to acquire water works, but is unsuccessful as the council votes 4-1 against the purchase.&nbsp;Prairie fires rage through the area as dry, windy conditions hit the area.A dedication ceremony is held for the completion of the K-61 Highway renovation project from Hutchinson to Pratt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633376831305.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Adela Hale Business School - 428 E. 1st &amp; Plum - Late 1950s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.The Korean War brings on a shortage of automobiles. The Reno County Draft Board calls men into service once again.The U.S. Postal Service is a major news topic today. In 1950, the post office announced it was dropping mail delivery from two times per day to one. A complete street address is necessary for delivery.1951:&nbsp;The Hutchinson Public Library is officially dedicated at 9th and Main.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633379085240.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson New Public Library - 901 N. Main - 1953. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Wait till the Sun Shines Nellie is filmed in parts of Hutchinson, Nickerson, Pretty Prairie and Castleton.Draft calls increase as the Korean War intensifies.A severe storm blows through Sylvia; numerous buildings and power lines damaged; bridges are washed out.Voters approve a $485,000 bond to make major renovations to Convention Hall. Today it is, of course, Memorial Hall.In a more significant project, voters also approve a $994,000 bond issue to build the Hutchinson Sports Arena. Today, that would be $10.4 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633376891272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sports Arena at Finish of Construction - 1953. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Fan Dancer Sally Rand performs at the Kansas State Fair.The flood control project that was started in the 1940s is still not finished as the project is put on hold during the Korean War.The city establishes parking meters in the downtown area to keep motorists from taking up parking spaces. The city plans to use the revenue to establish off-street parking.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633376933808.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wiley Bldg. - N.E. Cor. 1st &amp; Main - c. 1950. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.1952:&nbsp;The&nbsp;Hutchinson Sports Arena is finished. The first NJCAA National Basketball Tournament is held there.More than 15,000 spectators fill up the state fair grandstands for stock car races.A.R. King, who was the Reno County superintendent who served on the Hutchinson School Board for 12 years, died.Kansas State Fair attendance estimated at 395,000.The naval air station was reactivated for the war effort.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633376994144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Naval Air Station - Over The Tower. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.A record 8.9 million bushels of wheat is harvested in the county.The movie Wait till the Sun Shines Nellie premieres in Hutchinson. Hollywood stars attend and the parade draws more than 20,000 spectators.Willowbrook is incorporated.A dial telephone service is established in the area.John Crutcher, real estate broker and active in the American Legion, is elected to the Kansas State Senate.The city releases a pie chart showing what percentage of each tax dollar goes to in the city.27% is debt service26% is for public safety20% is for Public Works13% is for airports, parks and auditoriums8% is for general government6% is for health and sanitationAll city employees are given a 5% pay increase11th Avenue is widened to accommodate traffic around the Hutchinson Sports Arena.1953:&nbsp;Armistice Day; the Korean War is over — 800 county residents served, 17 died in the war.The VFW clubhouse is built near the 4th Avenue viaduct.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377122353.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grace Episcopal Church Exterior at Completion - 2 Hyde Park Dr. - Late 1951. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.With debt service eating up a quarter of the budget, the city establishes a longterm capital improvement budget.Four modern elementary schools are built. They are McCandless, Morgan, Wiley and Graber.The new administration building is finished at the municipal airport.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377163065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson New Terminal &amp; Control Tower - c. 1954. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.A big day at the Kansas State Fair as 141 marching bands perform.Zion Lutheran Church celebrates 65 years in Hutchinson.A one-half-million-dollar military training facility is built just east of the Sports Arena. It is still part of the National Guard today.The Baker Hotel is built — now the Plaza Towers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377196768.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Baker Hotel - c. 1958 (Built 1955). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.KTVH television opened with studios located at 1800 N. Plum.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633378647867.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KTVH TV Building Ext. - 1800 N. Plum - Hutchinson (from Roger Cornish). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.1954:&nbsp;A blizzard paralyzes the area.Three workers are killed in an explosion at a Collingwood grain elevator in Hutchinson.The co-op elevator is built in Partridge.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377627544.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carey Fountain at Carey Park entrance before move to new location - c. 1950. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Reno County is declared a disaster area after prolonged drought.The City of South Hutchinson establishes zoning regulations for the first time.Construction begins on the new Santa Fe train station. The station is still used today.Partridge High School wins the state basketball championship.1955:&nbsp;After being delayed due to the Korean War, the Hutchinson Flood Control project was finished. The levee system still protects Hutchinson and the surrounding area today. The project was mostly funded by the Army Corps of Engineers.The Salk polio vaccine begins in the county.Scenes from the movie Picnic are filmed in Hutchinson and Nickerson.A new Santa Fe train station is opened and replaces the one that opened in 1897.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377236712.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A.T.&amp;S.F. Santa Fe new passenger Depot in 1955 (old one still there). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.In what became a popular hangout for years, the South Hutchinson Drive-In opened for business.1956:&nbsp;Telephone switchboards light up as residents call in to report UFOs in the area. Nothing is confirmed.The Navy Reserve training center opens in Hutchinson.In what is still one of the great traditions in Kansas, the first official tryouts were held for the Liberal Shrove Tuesday Pancake Race. The tryouts were held in South Hutchinson. The event was televised nationally.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377363472.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carey Park - Ferris Wheel - 1955. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Reno County Sheriff Al Severson is forced to resign after the State Attorney General John Anderson and County Attorney John Alden investigate that Severson was intoxicated while on duty and was found to have participated and encouraged the use of confiscated slot machines during parties at the courthouse.Police begin marking tires on vehicles in the downtown area to prevent meter feeding. Thousands of dollars are generated from the fines.1957:&nbsp;The Arlington Band rides a bus to Topeka to play in the inauguration of Gov. George Docking.Four houses in Hutchinson explode; leaking gas mains blamed.Hutchinson is named the home of the Kansas Wheat Commission.Reno County still has five one-room multi-grade school houses in 1957.In one of the more unique events held at the Sports Arena, tons of dirt is brought in to cover the floor of the arena for a rodeo.It was soggy in Reno County in 1957 as a record 47.12 inches of rain fell for the year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377983552.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dillon Nature Center - Dillon's Lake Employee Recreation Area - Cabin - 1950s. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.1958:&nbsp;The Reno County Welfare Work program is established. Men must work to receive welfare.The U.S. Naval Air Station is closed for good. The base was built for $375,000 and, at one time, housed the largest indoor swimming pool at 550,000 gallons. The base was on more than 6,000 acres of land. It’s now the home to the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and various industries. It's also a popular glider port.The Reno County Sheriff’s Department is asked to help patrol the town of Pretty Prairie due to troublemaking teenagers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633377310441.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K. P. &amp; L. - Hutchinson Generation Facility Aerial - 3200 E. 30th (Built 1950). Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.Flooding becomes a problem after more than five inches of rain falls in just 24 hours.Jane Bauman began to write a newspaper column that continued for more than 40 years.Reno County Commissioners end $2 bounty for coyote ears.After being voted down by both the public and the city commission in the 1930s and 1940s, the city purchased the privately-owned water works for $3.6 million. The takeover is approved and upgrades to the system begin immediately.&nbsp;Hutchinson Community College boasts the largest enrollment of any community college in Kansas.1959:&nbsp;Reno County Wheat Growers Association established.Looking for places to dispose of nuclear waste, the Atomic Energy Commission begins testing for the storage of radioactive waste in the Carey Salt Mine.The last class graduated from Plevna High School. Twins who are part of the class are grandsons of members of the first class.The college begins a crash training program to provide qualified employees for the area's booming industrial business. The college still provides specialized training for various industrial needs in the state.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633379216177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sherman &amp; Main from the South - c. 1950. Photo courtesy of Steve Harmon.In what is certainly the mecca of historical material, Underground Vaults and Storage opens. Home to many rolls of movie film from the Wizard of Oz to whole film series of past television shows. The area also stores millions of paper and microfilm records.Sen. Lyndon B. Johnson speaks at a Democrat rally held at the Sports Arena.The Decades are brought to you by: <a href="http://www.hutchinsonfc.com/">Hutchinson Funeral Chapel</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rothefloors/">Rothe Family Flooring</a> <a href="https://www.hutchpl.org/">Hutchinson Public Library</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.