HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Michael Devine with the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who haven't filed their 2018 returns yet that they could be leaving money on the table.

"If you do a refund, there's a statute of limitations that says you only have three years to file that tax return and claim a refund," Devine said. "On April 18, that's the last day you can file that 2018 return. Our records indicate that there could be 15,000 Kansas residents who didn't claim more than $14 million."

It's not that it is necessarily a large amount of money, but every little bit helps.

"The numbers are really pretty constant for the past 10 years or so," Devine said. "It's about a billion and a half dollars nationally. The average refund might be up to $813, half above, half below."

If you do file back tax returns, though, the IRS is going to want you to file for the intervening years, too.

"If you filed a 2018 return, we're probably going to hang on to that refund until you've filed for 2019 and 2020," Devine said. "That's a good thing, because if you were going to get a refund, but you owed in 2019, that will reduce that tax bill, with penalties and interest. It's important to know that a tax bill isn't going to go away. There's no statute of limitation."

In other words, if you're due a refund, you need to file within three years, but if you are due to pay, those bills and interest and penalties continue to accrue, no matter how far back it goes until it is paid.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632741416882.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Michael Devine with the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who haven't filed their 2018 returns yet that they could be leaving money on the table."If you do a refund, there's a statute of limitations that says you only have three years to file that tax return and claim a refund," Devine said. "On April 18, that's the last day you can file that 2018 return. Our records indicate that there could be 15,000 Kansas residents who didn't claim more than $14 million."It's not that it is necessarily a large amount of money, but every little bit helps."The numbers are really pretty constant for the past 10 years or so," Devine said. "It's about a billion and a half dollars nationally. The average refund might be up to $813, half above, half below."If you do file back tax returns, though, the IRS is going to want you to file for the intervening years, too."If you filed a 2018 return, we're probably going to hang on to that refund until you've filed for 2019 and 2020," Devine said. "That's a good thing, because if you were going to get a refund, but you owed in 2019, that will reduce that tax bill, with penalties and interest. It's important to know that a tax bill isn't going to go away. There's no statute of limitation."In other words, if you're due a refund, you need to file within three years, but if you are due to pay, those bills and interest and penalties continue to accrue, no matter how far back it goes until it is paid.

IRS: File 2018 returns if you haven't, or you'll lose your refund

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dillon Nature Center is in the process of creating a new strategic plan. This plan will guide the direction of the nature center for the next 5-10 years. Director John Gallagher says the study came from changes in the way people are using the center.

“People aren’t using the nature center like they used to or coming to our programs like they used to,” Gallagher said. “We’ve been trying to figure out what we should be doing that people want program-wise.”

Gallagher says most of the changes come from the pandemic and that the center decided it needed some direction coming out of that period.

“We’ve just been winging it trying to find out what works. Instead of continuing to do that, let’s do this properly and get input from the public and all of the stakeholders,” Gallagher said. “Then find a good facilitator who knows how to put together strategic plans and see what direction we should go.”&nbsp;

Gallagher says the age at which participants are participating in various programs has changed as well.

“Programs that we’ve been offering to the public on weekends and things like that. Different age groups from that past (that used the center) are not turning up now,” Gallagher said. “We just really want to find out what people want to do.”

A national search for a firm experienced in nature center strategic planning is already underway. Gallagher says a peer consulting team will be visiting the center April 15 and 16 to look over the area and take feedback from various entities. The public will also be invited to discuss the nature center with this team on Saturday, April 16. Gallagher says that, once the study is complete, it will go before the nature center board and then the board of Hutch Rec. The center hopes to have the study completed by the end of the year so changes can begin in 2023.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a> to download the Hutch Post mobile app.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a> to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635188174524.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dillon Nature Center is in the process of creating a new strategic plan. This plan will guide the direction of the nature center for the next 5-10 years. Director John Gallagher says the study came from changes in the way people are using the center.“People aren’t using the nature center like they used to or coming to our programs like they used to,” Gallagher said. “We’ve been trying to figure out what we should be doing that people want program-wise.”Gallagher says most of the changes come from the pandemic and that the center decided it needed some direction coming out of that period.“We’ve just been winging it trying to find out what works. Instead of continuing to do that, let’s do this properly and get input from the public and all of the stakeholders,” Gallagher said. “Then find a good facilitator who knows how to put together strategic plans and see what direction we should go.”&nbsp;Gallagher says the age at which participants are participating in various programs has changed as well.“Programs that we’ve been offering to the public on weekends and things like that. Different age groups from that past (that used the center) are not turning up now,” Gallagher said. “We just really want to find out what people want to do.”A national search for a firm experienced in nature center strategic planning is already underway. Gallagher says a peer consulting team will be visiting the center April 15 and 16 to look over the area and take feedback from various entities. The public will also be invited to discuss the nature center with this team on Saturday, April 16. Gallagher says that, once the study is complete, it will go before the nature center board and then the board of Hutch Rec. The center hopes to have the study completed by the end of the year so changes can begin in 2023.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a> to download the Hutch Post mobile app.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a> to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Dillon Nature Center looking to future

YODER, Kan. — The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) will be a part of a two-day summit focused on court and community response to behavioral health issues in Topeka. It’s drawing registrants from across the state.&nbsp;

The <a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/W7UZRjjltrKib1EMhWWcJZUilY_q6_iAXluCvNah7ME">2022 Kansas Mental Health Summit</a> is scheduled for April 13 and 14 and will be the first of its kind in Kansas. More than 600 registrants including judges, legislators, attorneys, court services officers and community corrections officers will participate. It also includes representatives from the executive branch, mental and medical health disciplines, law enforcement, first responders and community leadership.&nbsp;

The summit planning committee chairperson, Judge Robert Wonnell, said he was inspired to organize the statewide summit after attending a similar regional summit in 2019. That summit was the work of a <a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/W7UZRjjltrKib1EMhWWcJa80cbqnLXDov_hJKpRv-JI">national judicial task force</a> involving the National Center for State Courts, the Conference of Chief Justices, the Conference of State Court Administrators, and the State Justice Institute.

Judge Steven Liefman of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida will deliver a keynote address that describes what judicial leadership was able to accomplish in Miami-Dade County, the seventh-largest county in the nation with a population of nearly 3 million.

Other speakers on the agenda will give perspectives on local and national initiatives, and panel discussions will feature local speakers who will report their experiences in their own Kansas communities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622151282711.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>YODER, Kan. — The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) will be a part of a two-day summit focused on court and community response to behavioral health issues in Topeka. It’s drawing registrants from across the state.&nbsp;The <a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/W7UZRjjltrKib1EMhWWcJZUilY_q6_iAXluCvNah7ME">2022 Kansas Mental Health Summit</a> is scheduled for April 13 and 14 and will be the first of its kind in Kansas. More than 600 registrants including judges, legislators, attorneys, court services officers and community corrections officers will participate. It also includes representatives from the executive branch, mental and medical health disciplines, law enforcement, first responders and community leadership.&nbsp;The summit planning committee chairperson, Judge Robert Wonnell, said he was inspired to organize the statewide summit after attending a similar regional summit in 2019. That summit was the work of a <a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/W7UZRjjltrKib1EMhWWcJa80cbqnLXDov_hJKpRv-JI">national judicial task force</a> involving the National Center for State Courts, the Conference of Chief Justices, the Conference of State Court Administrators, and the State Justice Institute.Judge Steven Liefman of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida will deliver a keynote address that describes what judicial leadership was able to accomplish in Miami-Dade County, the seventh-largest county in the nation with a population of nearly 3 million.Other speakers on the agenda will give perspectives on local and national initiatives, and panel discussions will feature local speakers who will report their experiences in their own Kansas communities.

KLETC to attend health issues summit in Topeka

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas finished off the biggest comeback in national championship history Monday night, getting a big game from David McCormack, crucial shots from Remy Martin and surviving a potential game-tying 3-pointer by Caleb Love at the buzzer for a 72-69 victory over North Carolina in the Superdome. 

The Kansas Jayhawks captured their sixth national championship in school history Monday night at the Caesars Superdome, topping North Carolina 72-69 in the National Championship game.

The Jayhawks erased a 15-point halftime deficit to capture their second national championship under Coach Bill Self, outscoring the Tar Heels 47-29 in the second half. The win marked the program’s third national championship since 1988. Kansas shot 58 percent from the floor in the second half, hitting 19 of 33 shots from the floor, while North Carolina went 11-for-40 from the floor in the second, shooting 28 percent.

Kansas trailed by 16 at one point in the first half. The 16-point deficit is the largest ever overcome in a championship game in NCAA history.

Five Jayhawks scored in double figures for Kansas in the win, led by 15 points apiece from Jalen Wilson and David McCormack. McCormack had 10 rebounds as well to post a double-double, while Christian Braun also had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Remy Martin finished with 14 points, while All-American Ochai Agbaji finished with 12.

Agbaji was named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, adding to his already long list of accolades. McCormack was named to the All-NCAA Tournament Team, joining Agbaji..

Trailing 40-25 at halftime, the Jayhawks wasted no time starting the comeback, coming out of the locker room hot. Trailing 45-33 with 16:10 to play, Braun scored on a layup to cut it to 10. Wilson then converted an and-one to cut it seven at 45-38. That was the closest the Jayhawks had been since trailing 29-22 with more than four minutes to play in the first half.

After an Agbaji free throw made it six, Dajuan Harris Jr., hit a basket to get it to four. Trailing 50-47 with just more than 11 minutes left, Agbaji hit an and-one to knot the game at 50 for the first tie since it was 22-22.

Kansas then scored the next six points to grab a six-point lead at 56-50. North Carolina came right back, however, to tie it back up at 57 with 8:16 to play. The Jayhawks would lead from there until North Carolina tied it again at 65 with just more than three minutes to play. But Martin hit another 3-pointer to put Kansas up again.

After back-to-back buckets put North Carolina back up one, McCormack went to work and scored in the paint to put the Jayhawks up 70-69 with 1:21 to play. He then scored again with 22 seconds left to make the score 72-69 and close out the national championship win for the Jayhawks.

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Kansas finished off the biggest comeback in national championship history Monday night, getting a big game from David McCormack, crucial shots from Remy Martin and surviving a potential game-tying 3-pointer by Caleb Love at the buzzer for a 72-69 victory over North Carolina in the Superdome. The Kansas Jayhawks captured their sixth national championship in school history Monday night at the Caesars Superdome, topping North Carolina 72-69 in the National Championship game.The Jayhawks erased a 15-point halftime deficit to capture their second national championship under Coach Bill Self, outscoring the Tar Heels 47-29 in the second half. The win marked the program’s third national championship since 1988. Kansas shot 58 percent from the floor in the second half, hitting 19 of 33 shots from the floor, while North Carolina went 11-for-40 from the floor in the second, shooting 28 percent.Kansas trailed by 16 at one point in the first half. The 16-point deficit is the largest ever overcome in a championship game in NCAA history.Five Jayhawks scored in double figures for Kansas in the win, led by 15 points apiece from Jalen Wilson and David McCormack. McCormack had 10 rebounds as well to post a double-double, while Christian Braun also had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Remy Martin finished with 14 points, while All-American Ochai Agbaji finished with 12.Agbaji was named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, adding to his already long list of accolades. McCormack was named to the All-NCAA Tournament Team, joining Agbaji..Trailing 40-25 at halftime, the Jayhawks wasted no time starting the comeback, coming out of the locker room hot. Trailing 45-33 with 16:10 to play, Braun scored on a layup to cut it to 10. Wilson then converted an and-one to cut it seven at 45-38. That was the closest the Jayhawks had been since trailing 29-22 with more than four minutes to play in the first half.After an Agbaji free throw made it six, Dajuan Harris Jr., hit a basket to get it to four. Trailing 50-47 with just more than 11 minutes left, Agbaji hit an and-one to knot the game at 50 for the first tie since it was 22-22.Kansas then scored the next six points to grab a six-point lead at 56-50. North Carolina came right back, however, to tie it back up at 57 with 8:16 to play. The Jayhawks would lead from there until North Carolina tied it again at 65 with just more than three minutes to play. But Martin hit another 3-pointer to put Kansas up again.After back-to-back buckets put North Carolina back up one, McCormack went to work and scored in the paint to put the Jayhawks up 70-69 with 1:21 to play. He then scored again with 22 seconds left to make the score 72-69 and close out the national championship win for the Jayhawks.

🏀 KU wins national title Monday

HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Monday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Nissan Altima driven by&nbsp; &nbsp; Coby Wayne Lollis Madueno, 21, Newton,&nbsp; was northbound on Interstate 135 one mile north of SE 36th Street in Newton.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The car veered right, entered the ditch, continued north in the ditch for over 400 feet and struck a bridge pillar.

EMS transported&nbsp; Lollis Madueno to Wesley Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648477260784.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Monday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Nissan Altima driven by&nbsp; &nbsp; Coby Wayne Lollis Madueno, 21, Newton,&nbsp; was northbound on Interstate 135 one mile north of SE 36th Street in Newton.&nbsp;&nbsp;The car veered right, entered the ditch, continued north in the ditch for over 400 feet and struck a bridge pillar.EMS transported&nbsp; Lollis Madueno to Wesley Medical Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after car strikes bridge pillar

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will take time to discuss the stormwater utility fee when it meets Tuesday. The fee, which has been in place since 2016, is being addressed at the request of the city council that feels it is either unnecessary or too high. City Manager Jeff Cantrell says discussion will center around the history of the utility and how vital it is to several projects.

“Describing the history of the ordinance and the evolution of projects and how stormwater has impacted specific portions of the community,” Cantrell said. “The funding element of that existing fee structure has a lot to do with the progress of the Cow Creek project. If we reduce that rate structure, I fear that we would have a situation where that project would have to be funded elsewhere.”

Cantrell says if the fee is reduced or eliminated, major projects would have to be financed in other ways, including bonding projects, which cost more due to interest rates on bonds.

“Some cities do handle it that way through general obligation debt,” Cantrell said. “That’s not ideal because it doesn’t allow you to plan in five- and 10-year increments to know what your future projects really are.”

Cantrell also wanted to stress that, unlike some beliefs, nearly all cities in Kansas have a similar fee — and Hutchinson’s is not the highest.

“I would estimate that cities in Kansas that are similar size to us and even smaller, the majority of them have a specific stormwater impact fee,” Cantrell said. “Ours (fee) falls in the mid-range of what the fee collections are. So it wouldn’t be accurate to say we are in the highest portion of that fee, at the same time we’re probably not the lowest.”

The Kansas City suburb of Mission topped the list of highest stormwater rates with a rate of $19 an ERU (Equivalent Residency Unit). Lenexa and McPherson had rates above $7 a month. Newton, Liberal, Ark City, and Shawnee were above $6 per month. Manhattan, Fairway, Junction City and Olathe had stormwater rates above $5 a month. Topeka, Lawrence, and Ottawa were above $4 per month.&nbsp;

While the Cow Creek project is the first major improvement funded by the utility, there is already another project on the list that would be paid for with the utility fee. The Mine Road going into Hutch Salt is in need of major repairs due to stormwater issues.

“It’s one of their access roads where the city has responsibility to maintain culverts and some&nbsp; pretty major stormwater infrastructure,” Cantrell said. “That infrastructure has failed, the culverts have rotted and the roadway has come through from the top side.”

Cantrell estimates that repairs to the damaged infrastructure could run over $1 million.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639744398230.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will take time to discuss the stormwater utility fee when it meets Tuesday. The fee, which has been in place since 2016, is being addressed at the request of the city council that feels it is either unnecessary or too high. City Manager Jeff Cantrell says discussion will center around the history of the utility and how vital it is to several projects.“Describing the history of the ordinance and the evolution of projects and how stormwater has impacted specific portions of the community,” Cantrell said. “The funding element of that existing fee structure has a lot to do with the progress of the Cow Creek project. If we reduce that rate structure, I fear that we would have a situation where that project would have to be funded elsewhere.”Cantrell says if the fee is reduced or eliminated, major projects would have to be financed in other ways, including bonding projects, which cost more due to interest rates on bonds.“Some cities do handle it that way through general obligation debt,” Cantrell said. “That’s not ideal because it doesn’t allow you to plan in five- and 10-year increments to know what your future projects really are.”Cantrell also wanted to stress that, unlike some beliefs, nearly all cities in Kansas have a similar fee — and Hutchinson’s is not the highest.“I would estimate that cities in Kansas that are similar size to us and even smaller, the majority of them have a specific stormwater impact fee,” Cantrell said. “Ours (fee) falls in the mid-range of what the fee collections are. So it wouldn’t be accurate to say we are in the highest portion of that fee, at the same time we’re probably not the lowest.”The Kansas City suburb of Mission topped the list of highest stormwater rates with a rate of $19 an ERU (Equivalent Residency Unit). Lenexa and McPherson had rates above $7 a month. Newton, Liberal, Ark City, and Shawnee were above $6 per month. Manhattan, Fairway, Junction City and Olathe had stormwater rates above $5 a month. Topeka, Lawrence, and Ottawa were above $4 per month.&nbsp;While the Cow Creek project is the first major improvement funded by the utility, there is already another project on the list that would be paid for with the utility fee. The Mine Road going into Hutch Salt is in need of major repairs due to stormwater issues.“It’s one of their access roads where the city has responsibility to maintain culverts and some&nbsp; pretty major stormwater infrastructure,” Cantrell said. “That infrastructure has failed, the culverts have rotted and the roadway has come through from the top side.”Cantrell estimates that repairs to the damaged infrastructure could run over $1 million.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a> to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a> to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

City council to discuss stormwater utility fee


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Kansas State Department of Education is asking for community feedback from across the state on what changes, if any, should be made in Kansas high school graduation requirements.

<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScgh-IpVSnY3zDAAKh1UdVOs48u-bcjLjqxI8gOP2-8TYBQHA/viewform">Here is a link to the online survey</a>.

It has been several years since the high school graduation requirements have been evaluated. The task force is charged with making recommendations to the Kansas State Board of Education no later than May 2022.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620128367725.jpg" alt="graduation, scroll, cap" />
 <figcaption>graduation, scroll, cap</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Kansas State Department of Education is asking for community feedback from across the state on what changes, if any, should be made in Kansas high school graduation requirements.<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScgh-IpVSnY3zDAAKh1UdVOs48u-bcjLjqxI8gOP2-8TYBQHA/viewform">Here is a link to the online survey</a>.It has been several years since the high school graduation requirements have been evaluated. The task force is charged with making recommendations to the Kansas State Board of Education no later than May 2022.&nbsp;

Survey on Kansas graduation requirements in home stretch

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The latest installment of the Dillon Lecture Series will feature NASA astronaut and Kansas native Nick Hague. Hague’s presentation begins at 10:30 Tuesday morning at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. The lecture is open to the public. Cost to attend the lecture is only $10, with students admitted free.

Hague was born in Belleville, KS and graduated from Hoxie High School in 1994. He was selected by NASA as an astronaut in 2013. The Kansas native earned a Bachelor of Science in Astronautical Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy in 1998, and a Master of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2000.

In 2009, Hague was selected for the Air Force Fellows program in Washington, D.C., and was a staff member in the United States Senate. Hague most recently served as Flight Engineer on the International Space Station for Expedition 59 and 60.&nbsp;

This is the 41st season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For more information on the Dillon Lecture Series, or to become a patron, call Robin Woodworth at 620-665-3505 or visit the college website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595005445504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The latest installment of the Dillon Lecture Series will feature NASA astronaut and Kansas native Nick Hague. Hague’s presentation begins at 10:30 Tuesday morning at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. The lecture is open to the public. Cost to attend the lecture is only $10, with students admitted free.Hague was born in Belleville, KS and graduated from Hoxie High School in 1994. He was selected by NASA as an astronaut in 2013. The Kansas native earned a Bachelor of Science in Astronautical Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy in 1998, and a Master of Science in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2000.In 2009, Hague was selected for the Air Force Fellows program in Washington, D.C., and was a staff member in the United States Senate. Hague most recently served as Flight Engineer on the International Space Station for Expedition 59 and 60.&nbsp;This is the 41st season for the Dillon Lecture Series on the HutchCC Campus. For more information on the Dillon Lecture Series, or to become a patron, call Robin Woodworth at 620-665-3505 or visit the college website at <a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>.

Hague to speak at Dillon Lecture Series Tuesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Emporia State University political science professor Michael Smith notes that over the last ten years since he made the effort to get his students engaged, the polarizing political environment has made this process more difficult.

"Throwing people into the deep end of the pool, getting them out there in their communities active in local changes, even if they are non-partisan changes, is a bit overwhelming for folks," Smith said. "In terms of their commitment of their time, what we need to do first is produce educated voters."

John Hibbing and Elizabeth Theiss-Morse’s 2002 book Stealth Democracy really changed Smith's approach, as they assert that many Americans do not wish to have a “deep democracy” and further that the same group would prefer a sort of benevolent dictator.  They add that many Americans have little interest in compromise, instead believing their own opinions to be correct and seeking to force others to abide by those opinions.  According to this line of thinking, contrary opinions are incorrect, therefore they need not be taken into account when policy is made. 

"So many of the things that really effect our every day lives the most, like whether or not the programs in our kids schools are properly funded, whether or not a bridge is safe to drive over, whether or not an intersection is safe. Congress is not going to handle those things," Smith said. "Not directly, they may provide a little money. These are local government issues."

Reasonable people can disagree on the best direction for policy, but speaking generally, the closer to home a decision can be made and the more engaged local voters can be, the better.

"A pothole is a pothole," Smith said. "It's not a Democrat, a Republican, a Libertarian or anything else, it's a pothole, and it needs to be filled. A bridge that's crumbling, we'd better fix that. Lets put partisanship aside. That's what local government ought to be about, water treatment plants, you name it. Some of these issues that are creeping in to our local government may be percolating down instead of up, or dripping down, I guess from national interest groups with an agenda."

Smith said both sides have begun running opponents in the primary against those they don't deem to be ideologically pure enough from a policy perspective, which can push positions farther to the extremes. This is especially true since there are more and more safe districts where any real contest for a seat in the legislature or Congress is contested in the primary. Smith misses the days when some politicians would make policy first and then sell their constituents on their decision, rather than constantly running for their next term and always thinking about a potential primary opponent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Emporia State University political science professor Michael Smith notes that over the last ten years since he made the effort to get his students engaged, the polarizing political environment has made this process more difficult."Throwing people into the deep end of the pool, getting them out there in their communities active in local changes, even if they are non-partisan changes, is a bit overwhelming for folks," Smith said. "In terms of their commitment of their time, what we need to do first is produce educated voters."John Hibbing and Elizabeth Theiss-Morse’s 2002 book Stealth Democracy really changed Smith's approach, as they assert that many Americans do not wish to have a “deep democracy” and further that the same group would prefer a sort of benevolent dictator. They add that many Americans have little interest in compromise, instead believing their own opinions to be correct and seeking to force others to abide by those opinions. According to this line of thinking, contrary opinions are incorrect, therefore they need not be taken into account when policy is made. "So many of the things that really effect our every day lives the most, like whether or not the programs in our kids schools are properly funded, whether or not a bridge is safe to drive over, whether or not an intersection is safe. Congress is not going to handle those things," Smith said. "Not directly, they may provide a little money. These are local government issues."Reasonable people can disagree on the best direction for policy, but speaking generally, the closer to home a decision can be made and the more engaged local voters can be, the better."A pothole is a pothole," Smith said. "It's not a Democrat, a Republican, a Libertarian or anything else, it's a pothole, and it needs to be filled. A bridge that's crumbling, we'd better fix that. Lets put partisanship aside. That's what local government ought to be about, water treatment plants, you name it. Some of these issues that are creeping in to our local government may be percolating down instead of up, or dripping down, I guess from national interest groups with an agenda."Smith said both sides have begun running opponents in the primary against those they don't deem to be ideologically pure enough from a policy perspective, which can push positions farther to the extremes. This is especially true since there are more and more safe districts where any real contest for a seat in the legislature or Congress is contested in the primary. Smith misses the days when some politicians would make policy first and then sell their constituents on their decision, rather than constantly running for their next term and always thinking about a potential primary opponent.

Smith: Educate local voters first, then they will engage

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

I recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Kansas Ag and Rural Leaders (KARL) program. Our trip included unique farm tours like a camel dairy, falcon hospital and the oldest irrigation district in the world. We experienced local traditions and culture by visiting museums, a desert oasis, a camel race training facility, a livestock market, a palace and the grand mosque. However, the real reason people visit UAE is to see Dubai.

Dubai’s leaders seem to have committed to the “if you build it, they will come” ideal popularized in “Field of Dreams.”. Their vision for Dubai has been to replace oil revenue that will eventually dwindle with money from tourism, business and the financial sectors. They are creating a center of business for the Middle East and the world; a “City of Dreams.”

Dubai had been described by many former travelers as the Las Vegas of the Middle East. I expected the Burj Khalifa (currently the world’s tallest building) and the Palm (a manmade island complex) would have a row of sky scrapers connecting the two areas and the city might feel like Chicago or Los Angeles.

My mind was not prepared for what the city actually looks like. Everything is new and really tall; high-rise buildings as far as the eye can see. When you emerge from a cluster of them, you can see another cluster of 10 to 20 a few miles away in any direction except downtown, which is more like 100 to 200 high-rise buildings. The city is filled with brand new metro lines, shopping malls, tourist attractions and residential communities. Dubai is a modern city of stunning architecture and the latest technology.

Our tour guide joked that Emiratis’ favorite word is ‘est. They have the tallest building, largest shopping mall, deepest swimming pool, largest dancing fountain, highest Ferris wheel. The list goes longer and makes me think Guinness Book of World Records probably has an office there purely for convenience.

The most impressive part is almost none of it existed 20 years ago. Many attractions didn’t exist 10 years ago as lots of the projects were fast tracked to prepare for the World Expo, which was originally scheduled for 2020 and delayed a year because of COVID.

The six-month Expo ended March 31 and was expected to bring 25 million visitors to see the 192 country pavilions focusing on themes of sustainability, mobility and opportunity. If you are picturing the state fair, this expo was about 20 times bigger without the animals, and even though we visited at the end of month six, the place felt fresh; bathrooms were clean, pavilions and facilities were in good working order, and there were no visible signs of staff packing-up. The same feel of quality and pride could be felt throughout all the attractions we saw.

Dubai is a city of dreams. It is the manifestation of leader’s vision and ability to motivate others to join in creating something big, something people all over the world will talk about and want to see for themselves.

People ignore their field of dreams because it seems too big. Dreams don’t happen overnight. Small steps, like having a clear vision or creating things that you can be proud of, are what create the momentum to move big dreams forward.

The tallest building in the most extravagant city in the world was what one man saw when he looked across the barren desert. Just imagine what you can make of the world around you.

"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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherI recently traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Kansas Ag and Rural Leaders (KARL) program. Our trip included unique farm tours like a camel dairy, falcon hospital and the oldest irrigation district in the world. We experienced local traditions and culture by visiting museums, a desert oasis, a camel race training facility, a livestock market, a palace and the grand mosque. However, the real reason people visit UAE is to see Dubai.Dubai’s leaders seem to have committed to the “if you build it, they will come” ideal popularized in “Field of Dreams.”. Their vision for Dubai has been to replace oil revenue that will eventually dwindle with money from tourism, business and the financial sectors. They are creating a center of business for the Middle East and the world; a “City of Dreams.”Dubai had been described by many former travelers as the Las Vegas of the Middle East. I expected the Burj Khalifa (currently the world’s tallest building) and the Palm (a manmade island complex) would have a row of sky scrapers connecting the two areas and the city might feel like Chicago or Los Angeles.My mind was not prepared for what the city actually looks like. Everything is new and really tall; high-rise buildings as far as the eye can see. When you emerge from a cluster of them, you can see another cluster of 10 to 20 a few miles away in any direction except downtown, which is more like 100 to 200 high-rise buildings. The city is filled with brand new metro lines, shopping malls, tourist attractions and residential communities. Dubai is a modern city of stunning architecture and the latest technology.Our tour guide joked that Emiratis’ favorite word is ‘est. They have the tallest building, largest shopping mall, deepest swimming pool, largest dancing fountain, highest Ferris wheel. The list goes longer and makes me think Guinness Book of World Records probably has an office there purely for convenience.The most impressive part is almost none of it existed 20 years ago. Many attractions didn’t exist 10 years ago as lots of the projects were fast tracked to prepare for the World Expo, which was originally scheduled for 2020 and delayed a year because of COVID.The six-month Expo ended March 31 and was expected to bring 25 million visitors to see the 192 country pavilions focusing on themes of sustainability, mobility and opportunity. If you are picturing the state fair, this expo was about 20 times bigger without the animals, and even though we visited at the end of month six, the place felt fresh; bathrooms were clean, pavilions and facilities were in good working order, and there were no visible signs of staff packing-up. The same feel of quality and pride could be felt throughout all the attractions we saw.Dubai is a city of dreams. It is the manifestation of leader’s vision and ability to motivate others to join in creating something big, something people all over the world will talk about and want to see for themselves.People ignore their field of dreams because it seems too big. Dreams don’t happen overnight. Small steps, like having a clear vision or creating things that you can be proud of, are what create the momentum to move big dreams forward.The tallest building in the most extravagant city in the world was what one man saw when he looked across the barren desert. Just imagine what you can make of the world around you."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. Copyright © 2022 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: The City of Dreams

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson community showed its generosity again Friday night as funds were raised at an event at Salt City Brewing to benefit Reno County VOAD and victims of the Cottonwood Complex fire.

$25,000 was raised in support of the fire victims. 

The event included a concert with the band Flatland along with Sarah Noland and a raffle with items from 22 local businesses.

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson community showed its generosity again Friday night as funds were raised at an event at Salt City Brewing to benefit Reno County VOAD and victims of the Cottonwood Complex fire.$25,000 was raised in support of the fire victims. The event included a concert with the band Flatland along with Sarah Noland and a raffle with items from 22 local businesses.

Friday night event raises $25,000 for fire victims


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Zoo was the only facility in Kansas to receive a grant award in the first round from&nbsp;the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Association of Zoos and Aquariums for endangered species care during the pandemic.

The facility received&nbsp;$18,811 to reimburse the zoo for eligible expenses.

Some of the eligible expenses include food, veterinary care/medicine, Direct animal/plant care staff time, life-support systems, transport for medical, reintroduction into the wild, and captive breeding purposes, real property debt and holding space improvements/modifications and utilities essential for the care of species (e.g., electricity/gas/natural gas to power essential services).

The first set of awards included a total of more than $1.6 million in sixteen states.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Hutchinson Zoo was the only facility in Kansas to receive a grant award in the first round from&nbsp;the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Association of Zoos and Aquariums for endangered species care during the pandemic.The facility received&nbsp;$18,811 to reimburse the zoo for eligible expenses.Some of the eligible expenses include food, veterinary care/medicine, Direct animal/plant care staff time, life-support systems, transport for medical, reintroduction into the wild, and captive breeding purposes, real property debt and holding space improvements/modifications and utilities essential for the care of species (e.g., electricity/gas/natural gas to power essential services).The first set of awards included a total of more than $1.6 million in sixteen states.

Hutchinson Zoo to get reimbursement money from feds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Country music icon Eddie Montgomery fulfills his promise to late friend and music partner Troy Gentry by continuing their legacy of big-energy performances at the Kansas State Fair, Tuesday, Sept. 13. 

Rocketing to stardom in 1999, Montgomery Gentry accumulated 20-plus charted singles and collected CMA, ACM and Grammy nominations and awards with blue-collar rallying cries such as “Hell Yeah,” “My Town” and “Hillbilly Shoes.” And this isn’t Eddie Montgomery’s first time at the Kansas State Fair: the duo performed here in 2009.

“By continuing the Montgomery Gentry legacy, Eddie Montgomery proves that the music lives on,” Bryan Schulz, Kansas State Fair General Manager said.  “The dedication these artists have to their craft and to their fans is phenomenal. We’re honored to host him again at the Kansas State Fair and are looking forward to an exciting show!” 

Tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. Friday, April 8, 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 8 a.m. on Thursday, April 7. Sign up for emails at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=IbAsoE20Oc2eSLwJ9NMhnk3z4iwkkBsjegsGzCHTDL8MC259enFNM1wpt1-2FoqfAxBhOZ2K5EwvzftFRrVlL-2B5vjnKBkVa6b7EqtHLFYdBopUUN-2Bz5-2Fqx30AzUfNM44yW9w1Wyy33Zl-2F9GmX8r8skN-2FDHcrLsRs17t1yi6COHRKm55MRsi2pI76zN2gDbQzVplV-2BQQWXqXIseBIhXpUalg4-2BAGbri2MJMXbmw7-2BWq6TlSjj8i0YBJoMIqWiXjPmpz38kRqYocQUvHqpgHKHAvuqsXkpBmxTJP0jiGbGc1eTw-3DIi0k_bQt34-2Bek-2BcyJvedJqAHqbgenH5Rk-2FeZiZrj7lw1Zyj63safqRtbedMoM7MBZdt5gIIousbHeTMMBLFkwN61199PZrqvlRPW7wL1Af-2FNJZH5bOteeHPcNABMy95moTis4zgc1XUfi1f2U2f6VgJP8s6SGzztp9i20ENmiQqP2D8NQuMhuT1HW92-2BRpSjqPRLRmIfRlxiUFbsPHf1Hx-2BykuMJdjJfCVgWwcWJe4eDzda-2Fxo1NiX3YG28ZYXCgj2NrobO5fKAuExMJ-2Ftd8GVjAr1Q1Kc-2BjKoKZFJsS038MvnpY0EpqAUlE7bYz9x-2Fy22XVTpySLabz3ild-2BQ6jjajpyu-2FTAJsn4ehZ-2FMe3SQIBfIiarX4d41Su3h2BNLB7kIf46FFhMANTePz6hGZU4oNSD9P0JrY0XYP3sAPT1dy1ZvsxhfN8f2qJ3ezrf-2BoemmHAb9d3Ip-2BL8-2B2ZP87gEx-2BycwA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/general-information/email-updates</a>.

Tickets are $30-$40. The show will be Tuesday, Sept. 13, at 7:30 p.m. 

New in 2022: each grandstand ticket will also include a gate admission scan. Ticket will be valid on date of event only. Some exclusions apply. Visit <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a> to learn more.&nbsp;

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasstatefair.com/" target="_blank">kansasstatefair.com</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:6206693618" target="_blank">(620) 669-3618.</a> &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1648893378055.jpeg" alt="Eddie Montgomery-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>Eddie Montgomery-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Country music icon Eddie Montgomery fulfills his promise to late friend and music partner Troy Gentry by continuing their legacy of big-energy performances at the Kansas State Fair, Tuesday, Sept. 13. Rocketing to stardom in 1999, Montgomery Gentry accumulated 20-plus charted singles and collected CMA, ACM and Grammy nominations and awards with blue-collar rallying cries such as “Hell Yeah,” “My Town” and “Hillbilly Shoes.” And this isn’t Eddie Montgomery’s first time at the Kansas State Fair: the duo performed here in 2009.“By continuing the Montgomery Gentry legacy, Eddie Montgomery proves that the music lives on,” Bryan Schulz, Kansas State Fair General Manager said.  “The dedication these artists have to their craft and to their fans is phenomenal. We’re honored to host him again at the Kansas State Fair and are looking forward to an exciting show!” Tickets go on sale at 8 a.m. Friday, April 8, 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 8 a.m. on Thursday, April 7. Sign up for emails at&nbsp;<a href="http://link.ss.ksf.ks.gov/ls/click?upn=IbAsoE20Oc2eSLwJ9NMhnk3z4iwkkBsjegsGzCHTDL8MC259enFNM1wpt1-2FoqfAxBhOZ2K5EwvzftFRrVlL-2B5vjnKBkVa6b7EqtHLFYdBopUUN-2Bz5-2Fqx30AzUfNM44yW9w1Wyy33Zl-2F9GmX8r8skN-2FDHcrLsRs17t1yi6COHRKm55MRsi2pI76zN2gDbQzVplV-2BQQWXqXIseBIhXpUalg4-2BAGbri2MJMXbmw7-2BWq6TlSjj8i0YBJoMIqWiXjPmpz38kRqYocQUvHqpgHKHAvuqsXkpBmxTJP0jiGbGc1eTw-3DIi0k_bQt34-2Bek-2BcyJvedJqAHqbgenH5Rk-2FeZiZrj7lw1Zyj63safqRtbedMoM7MBZdt5gIIousbHeTMMBLFkwN61199PZrqvlRPW7wL1Af-2FNJZH5bOteeHPcNABMy95moTis4zgc1XUfi1f2U2f6VgJP8s6SGzztp9i20ENmiQqP2D8NQuMhuT1HW92-2BRpSjqPRLRmIfRlxiUFbsPHf1Hx-2BykuMJdjJfCVgWwcWJe4eDzda-2Fxo1NiX3YG28ZYXCgj2NrobO5fKAuExMJ-2Ftd8GVjAr1Q1Kc-2BjKoKZFJsS038MvnpY0EpqAUlE7bYz9x-2Fy22XVTpySLabz3ild-2BQ6jjajpyu-2FTAJsn4ehZ-2FMe3SQIBfIiarX4d41Su3h2BNLB7kIf46FFhMANTePz6hGZU4oNSD9P0JrY0XYP3sAPT1dy1ZvsxhfN8f2qJ3ezrf-2BoemmHAb9d3Ip-2BL8-2B2ZP87gEx-2BycwA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/general-information/email-updates</a>.Tickets are $30-$40. The show will be Tuesday, Sept. 13, at 7:30 p.m. New in 2022: each grandstand ticket will also include a gate admission scan. Ticket will be valid on date of event only. Some exclusions apply. Visit <a href="http://KansasStateFair.com">KansasStateFair.com</a> to learn more.&nbsp;To purchase tickets or for more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kansasstatefair.com/" target="_blank">kansasstatefair.com</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;<a href="tel:6206693618" target="_blank">(620) 669-3618.</a> &nbsp;

Eddie Montgomery returns to the Kansas State Fair 


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Fire crews quickly extinguished a fire in a bedroom Monday morning.

According to a release from the Hutchinson Fire Department, crews were called out at 4:38 a.m. to 541 East Avenue C for a reported structure fire. 

When they got there, fire was venting from a bedroom window on the east side of the single-story house.&nbsp;

One adult and one child got out safely thanks to working smoke detectors. Fire crews were able to keep the fire down to the single bedroom. Smoke damage was noted throughout the house.&nbsp;

The fire is still being investigated.&nbsp;

___________________________________________


Hutchinson Fire crews are working early Monday. 

According to a social media post just after 5 a.m., the department is on scene of a working house fire in the 500 block of East Ave. C and all crews are working.

Hutch Post will have more on the fire as information is released later this morning.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Hutchinson Fire crews quickly extinguished a fire in a bedroom Monday morning.According to a release from the Hutchinson Fire Department, crews were called out at 4:38 a.m. to 541 East Avenue C for a reported structure fire. When they got there, fire was venting from a bedroom window on the east side of the single-story house.&nbsp;One adult and one child got out safely thanks to working smoke detectors. Fire crews were able to keep the fire down to the single bedroom. Smoke damage was noted throughout the house.&nbsp;The fire is still being investigated.&nbsp;___________________________________________
Hutchinson Fire crews are working early Monday. According to a social media post just after 5 a.m., the department is on scene of a working house fire in the 500 block of East Ave. C and all crews are working.Hutch Post will have more on the fire as information is released later this morning.

Hutch Fire working early Monday


WICHITA,
Kan. — 
The National Weather Service office in Wichita is warning of potential for wildfires again later this week.

Low relative humidity and wind gusts up to 55 mph will promote critical fire weather conditions on Wednesday for portions of central and western Kansas.

Reno County's burn ban expired on March 31 and some agricultural burning appeared to be taking place over the weekend. 

Agricultural burning is the most effective way to mitigate long-term fire threats, when done responsibly.

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WICHITA,
Kan. — 
The National Weather Service office in Wichita is warning of potential for wildfires again later this week.Low relative humidity and wind gusts up to 55 mph will promote critical fire weather conditions on Wednesday for portions of central and western Kansas.Reno County's burn ban expired on March 31 and some agricultural burning appeared to be taking place over the weekend. Agricultural burning is the most effective way to mitigate long-term fire threats, when done responsibly.

Fire weather possible Wednesday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have its discussion on ARPA funds priorities as a work session Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.

The Board of County Commissioners in Reno County and the county's ARPA Task Force would like to see the city make childcare a priority in its funding choices.&nbsp;

City Manager Jeff Cantrell has said previously that he wants to see the city split its allotment roughly 50-50 to task force priorities and long-term city needs, but the governing body hasn't expressed precisely where they think that will go yet.

The council did commit to its half of an $880,000 request from the Hutchinson Fire Department to upgrade some brush trucks and wildfire turnout gear in March.

Both Interfaith Housing and SCKEDD presented to the county commission at their work session and received a commitment that housing would be one of that body's priorities, as well.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council will have its discussion on ARPA funds priorities as a work session Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.The Board of County Commissioners in Reno County and the county's ARPA Task Force would like to see the city make childcare a priority in its funding choices.&nbsp;City Manager Jeff Cantrell has said previously that he wants to see the city split its allotment roughly 50-50 to task force priorities and long-term city needs, but the governing body hasn't expressed precisely where they think that will go yet.The council did commit to its half of an $880,000 request from the Hutchinson Fire Department to upgrade some brush trucks and wildfire turnout gear in March.Both Interfaith Housing and SCKEDD presented to the county commission at their work session and received a commitment that housing would be one of that body's priorities, as well.

City council holding its ARPA discussion Tuesday evening

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will take another step in presenting a facilities improvement bond issue to its patrons on Monday evening.

The board will be asked to approve sending out a request for qualifications for a Construction Management At Risk (CMAR) contractor. The CMAR method is used by many government entities to manage bids, costs and construction of major bond projects. The same method was used on the Sports Arena renovation project and the Hutchinson USD 308 bond project.

The request will go out to various contractors and the district is asking that they respond no later than April 15. Those selected to be interviewed by the district will be contacted by the district.

The district is working on what would be a $10.5 million bond issue to present to patrons later this year. Superintendent Curtis Nightingale says that, while the district could try to bring the proposal to the public for a vote in November, the district could wait until the spring so it can make sure it has everything in order and the public is completely informed on what is being proposed.

The USD 309 board meets at 7 p.m. Monday at the school district offices at 4501 W. 4th Ave.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623727313031.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson USD 309 School Board will take another step in presenting a facilities improvement bond issue to its patrons on Monday evening.The board will be asked to approve sending out a request for qualifications for a Construction Management At Risk (CMAR) contractor. The CMAR method is used by many government entities to manage bids, costs and construction of major bond projects. The same method was used on the Sports Arena renovation project and the Hutchinson USD 308 bond project.The request will go out to various contractors and the district is asking that they respond no later than April 15. Those selected to be interviewed by the district will be contacted by the district.The district is working on what would be a $10.5 million bond issue to present to patrons later this year. Superintendent Curtis Nightingale says that, while the district could try to bring the proposal to the public for a vote in November, the district could wait until the spring so it can make sure it has everything in order and the public is completely informed on what is being proposed.The USD 309 board meets at 7 p.m. Monday at the school district offices at 4501 W. 4th Ave.

USD 309 school board meets Monday

HAVEN, Kan. — It is a light agenda for the Haven City Council on Monday. The council will seek approval of a resolution proclaiming April 29 as Arbor Day for the city. The council will seek approval for the purchase of some wire and pole for the public works department at a cost of $15,000.

Following that, the council will go into executive session along with City Clerk Leslie Atherton, attorney Andrew Foulston, and Public Works Director Derek Stoll to discuss the ongoing legal issues with the city pool. The pool has been closed for the past several years due to legal action connected to the pool renovation project.

Monday’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Haven city offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635864518910.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAVEN, Kan. — It is a light agenda for the Haven City Council on Monday. The council will seek approval of a resolution proclaiming April 29 as Arbor Day for the city. The council will seek approval for the purchase of some wire and pole for the public works department at a cost of $15,000.Following that, the council will go into executive session along with City Clerk Leslie Atherton, attorney Andrew Foulston, and Public Works Director Derek Stoll to discuss the ongoing legal issues with the city pool. The pool has been closed for the past several years due to legal action connected to the pool renovation project.Monday’s meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Haven city offices.

Haven City Council meets Monday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Land Bank Board of Trustees will open bids for the 2022 mowing season at its meeting on Tuesday.

The Land Bank had made ten properties part of the bid, according to the previous month's minutes. The properties are listed below:

#1 00000 N WALNUT (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. N WALNUT &amp; E 9TH AVENUE)

#2 316 E AVENUE E (1 LOT LOCATED ON E AVENUE E, NEXT TO 310 E AVENUE E)

#3 00000 E 7TH AVENUE (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. N MAPLE &amp; E 7TH AVENUE)

#5 00000 (915) E AVENUE A (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E AVENUE A &amp; S REFORMATORY STREET)

#6 00000 (824) E 7TH AVENUE (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E 7TH AVENUE &amp; N SEVERANCE STREET)

#7 539 &amp; 541 E AVENUE A (2 LOTS LOCATED APPROX. E AVENUE A &amp; S FORD STREET)

#8 00000 E CARPENTER STREET (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E CARPENTER STREET &amp; S WALNUT STREET)

#9 00000 (324) W 6th AVENUE (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. W 6th AVENUE &amp; N MADISON STREET)

#10 00000 E Avenue B (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E AVENUE B &amp; S FORD STREET)

The mowing would be for the period of April 6, 2022 through October 31, 2022 (with additional weeks as requested and approved by the Hutchinson Land Bank).

The Land Bank would also have the option to renew the contract for the 2023 mowing season, if it so chose.

All lots designated to be mowed shall be mowed no less than once per two weeks and no more than two times per month. A week shall be defined as a 7-day period. The acreage listed for each location on the bid specifications is approximate. City staff will designate exact boundaries of each area.

The Land Bank Board of Trustees will meet at 3 p.m. Tuesday at Hutchinson City Hall, Executive Conference Room, 125 E. Avenue B.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583236568561.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Land Bank Board of Trustees will open bids for the 2022 mowing season at its meeting on Tuesday.The Land Bank had made ten properties part of the bid, according to the previous month's minutes. The properties are listed below:#1 00000 N WALNUT (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. N WALNUT &amp; E 9TH AVENUE)#2 316 E AVENUE E (1 LOT LOCATED ON E AVENUE E, NEXT TO 310 E AVENUE E)#3 00000 E 7TH AVENUE (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. N MAPLE &amp; E 7TH AVENUE)#4 712 S MAPLE STREET#5 00000 (915) E AVENUE A (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E AVENUE A &amp; S REFORMATORY STREET)#6 00000 (824) E 7TH AVENUE (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E 7TH AVENUE &amp; N SEVERANCE STREET)#7 539 &amp; 541 E AVENUE A (2 LOTS LOCATED APPROX. E AVENUE A &amp; S FORD STREET)#8 00000 E CARPENTER STREET (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E CARPENTER STREET &amp; S WALNUT STREET)#9 00000 (324) W 6th AVENUE (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. W 6th AVENUE &amp; N MADISON STREET)#10 00000 E Avenue B (1 LOT LOCATED APPROX. E AVENUE B &amp; S FORD STREET)The mowing would be for the period of April 6, 2022 through October 31, 2022 (with additional weeks as requested and approved by the Hutchinson Land Bank).The Land Bank would also have the option to renew the contract for the 2023 mowing season, if it so chose.All lots designated to be mowed shall be mowed no less than once per two weeks and no more than two times per month. A week shall be defined as a 7-day period. The acreage listed for each location on the bid specifications is approximate. City staff will designate exact boundaries of each area.The Land Bank Board of Trustees will meet at 3 p.m. Tuesday at Hutchinson City Hall, Executive Conference Room, 125 E. Avenue B.

Land Bank Board to decide on mowing Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There is so much going on at the Hutchinson Public Library for National Library Week April 3-9. There is a lot to celebrate.

A new display in the Sun Room will honor the 2022 theme of “Connect With Your Library.” The display will showcase the wide variety of resources available at the library as well as at home and at the office. 

Check out the display by the Reference Services Desk about banned and challenged books and learn why it is imperative that communities do not ban books.

Also, you can go on a springtime StoryWalk® in Children’s Services and open some joke eggs for a giggle. 

Come in and check out some books on April 6. Library Director, Gregg Wamsley, will be on the roof until they reach 800 items checked out.

Below is a schedule of activities at the Hutchinson Public Library:

State of America's Libraries Report released

National Library Workers Day is a day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.

On January 25, 2003, a resolution was proposed:

That in order to recognize the hard work, dedication, and expertise of library support staff and librarians that the Tuesday of National Library Week be designated National Library Workers Day; and, that on that day, interested library workers, library groups, and libraries should advocate for better compensation for all library workers and, if the day coincides with Equal Pay Day, these individuals, groups, and libraries should recognize both days together.

National Library Outreach Day celebrates library outreach and the dedicated library professionals who are meeting their patrons where they are. 

Library Director, Gregg Wamsley, will be up on the roof until patrons check out 800 books on Wednesday.

Find gently used books at bargain-basement prices! 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1648895387029.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Public Library-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Public Library-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There is so much going on at the Hutchinson Public Library for National Library Week April 3-9. There is a lot to celebrate.A new display in the Sun Room will honor the 2022 theme of “Connect With Your Library.” The display will showcase the wide variety of resources available at the library as well as at home and at the office. Check out the display by the Reference Services Desk about banned and challenged books and learn why it is imperative that communities do not ban books.Also, you can go on a springtime StoryWalk® in Children’s Services and open some joke eggs for a giggle. Come in and check out some books on April 6. Library Director, Gregg Wamsley, will be on the roof until they reach 800 items checked out.Below is a schedule of activities at the Hutchinson Public Library:Monday, April 4State of America's Libraries Report releasedStorytimes:﻿Toddler Time10:00 a.m.(18 mos - 2 years with a caregiver)Baby Time10:45 a.m.(Newborn - 18 months with a caregiver)Tuesday, April 5National Library Workers DayNational Library Workers Day is a day for library staff, users, administrators and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.On January 25, 2003, a resolution was proposed:That in order to recognize the hard work, dedication, and expertise of library support staff and librarians that the Tuesday of National Library Week be designated National Library Workers Day; and, that on that day, interested library workers, library groups, and libraries should advocate for better compensation for all library workers and, if the day coincides with Equal Pay Day, these individuals, groups, and libraries should recognize both days together.Storytimes:﻿Toddler Time10:00 a.m.(18 mos - 2 years with a caregiver)Baby Time10:45 a.m.(Newborn - 18 months with a caregiver)Wednesday, April 6National Library Outreach Day celebrates library outreach and the dedicated library professionals who are meeting their patrons where they are. Library Director, Gregg Wamsley, will be up on the roof until patrons check out 800 books on Wednesday.Storytimes:Preschool Storytime10:00 a.m.(3 to 5 years with a caregiver)Thursday, April 7Take Action for Libraries DayStorytimes:Preschool Storytime10:00 a.m.(3 to 5 years with a caregiver)﻿Friends of the Library Big Book SaleFind gently used books at bargain-basement prices! Library AuditoriumApr 7 – 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Public SaleMembers get 50% off – Ask for details!Friday, April 8Friends of the Library Big Book SaleFind gently used books at bargain-basement prices! Library AuditoriumApr 8 – 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.Public SaleSaturday, April 9Friends of the Library Big Book SaleFind gently used books at bargain-basement prices! Library AuditoriumApr 9 – 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.Sack Sale - fill a sack for $2.00!

Lots of activities at Hutchinson Public Library for National Library Week

TOPEKA — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly Friday signed several bills Friday. One of those was Senate Bill 419. 

The new law allows certain employees from the department of corrections to attend the Kansas law enforcement training center and included special agents of the department of corrections in the definition of law enforcement officer under the Kansas law enforcement training act.

The act shall take effect and be in force from and after its publication in the statute book.

Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC serves as the central law enforcement training facility and as headquarters for all law enforcement training in Kansas.

KLETC, a unit of the University of Kansas Lifelong &amp; Professional Education is located at the former naval air station, which is situated south of the City of Hutchinson and west of the City of Yoder in Reno County, Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625261126965.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly Friday signed several bills Friday. One of those was Senate Bill 419. The new law allows certain employees from the department of corrections to attend the Kansas law enforcement training center and included special agents of the department of corrections in the definition of law enforcement officer under the Kansas law enforcement training act.The act shall take effect and be in force from and after its publication in the statute book.Established by the Kansas Legislature in 1968, KLETC serves as the central law enforcement training facility and as headquarters for all law enforcement training in Kansas.KLETC, a unit of the University of Kansas Lifelong &amp; Professional Education is located at the former naval air station, which is situated south of the City of Hutchinson and west of the City of Yoder in Reno County, Kansas.&nbsp;

Gov. Kelly signs bill allowing special agents in corrections to attend KLETC

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Sistine McKown's essay on her robot, Athena the Navigator, ended the <a href="https://www.futureengineers.org/lunaboticsjunior">Lunabotics Junior Contest</a>&nbsp;as a finalist for the K-5 award. Quoted below is her essay. <a href="https://www.futureengineers.org/lunaboticsjunior/gallery/54333">Here is the full online presentation.</a>

"Athena the Navigator is a solar-powered, astronaut-controlled rover. 

"She has a corkscrew digging device that extends and gathers regolith then contracts, keeping regolith stored inside. She has a movable arm with an electron beam that repels lunar dust. She has an aluminum-titanium alloy body, and thermal glass surrounds the electronics. Outside the glass, a Kevlar cover provides extra protection. Athena has airless tires with several-hundred steel wires woven into a mesh-like material that provide traction. Additionally the wheels have the feature of shape memory. On the front are two sensors that detect the smoothness of the regolith, which makes Athena go faster or slower. She has another sensor on the corkscrew digger that observes if the digger is full. If it is, a weight will move to the back to prevent Athena from tipping, otherwise, the weight will move to the middle of the body."

The essay contest was issued in collaboration with NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate and the Office of STEM Engagement. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/">NASA’s Artemis Program</a>, will land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon and establish long-term lunar science and exploration capabilities that will serve as a springboard for future exploration of Mars.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over 2,000 essay submissions were received from K-12 students across the country and nearly 500 educators, professionals, and space enthusiasts offered their time as volunteer judges, to review the thousands of robot designs.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1648896115935.png" alt="AthenaTheNavigator-Courtesy Lunabotics Project.png" />
 <figcaption>AthenaTheNavigator-Courtesy Lunabotics Project.png</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Sistine McKown's essay on her robot, Athena the Navigator, ended the <a href="https://www.futureengineers.org/lunaboticsjunior">Lunabotics Junior Contest</a>&nbsp;as a finalist for the K-5 award. Quoted below is her essay. <a href="https://www.futureengineers.org/lunaboticsjunior/gallery/54333">Here is the full online presentation.</a>"Athena the Navigator is a solar-powered, astronaut-controlled rover. "She has a corkscrew digging device that extends and gathers regolith then contracts, keeping regolith stored inside. She has a movable arm with an electron beam that repels lunar dust. She has an aluminum-titanium alloy body, and thermal glass surrounds the electronics. Outside the glass, a Kevlar cover provides extra protection. Athena has airless tires with several-hundred steel wires woven into a mesh-like material that provide traction. Additionally the wheels have the feature of shape memory. On the front are two sensors that detect the smoothness of the regolith, which makes Athena go faster or slower. She has another sensor on the corkscrew digger that observes if the digger is full. If it is, a weight will move to the back to prevent Athena from tipping, otherwise, the weight will move to the middle of the body."The essay contest was issued in collaboration with NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate and the Office of STEM Engagement. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/">NASA’s Artemis Program</a>, will land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon and establish long-term lunar science and exploration capabilities that will serve as a springboard for future exploration of Mars.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over 2,000 essay submissions were received from K-12 students across the country and nearly 500 educators, professionals, and space enthusiasts offered their time as volunteer judges, to review the thousands of robot designs.&nbsp;

Hutchinson student ended run as finalist for NASA honor

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Although the number of rounds played fell by almost 2% year-over-year, it was still another busy year at Carey Park Golf Course in Hutchinson in 2021.&nbsp;

After the COVID-driven year of 2020 that saw the most rounds played in years, the course was not quite as busy. Parks Director Justin Combs released the numbers, which show 25,850 rounds played in 2021 compared with 26,259 in 2020. But all was not rosy in 2020 as the pandemic forced the shutdown of the pro shop for most of the year with very limited business. With the shop open again, revenue for the course was up by more than 7% in 2021 at $686,440.

Combs says the five-year average for the course is about 22,500 rounds a season, so 2021 was still a success. He also noted that the course has been able to provide good service even with the challenges offered up by the pandemic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1648842354168.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Although the number of rounds played fell by almost 2% year-over-year, it was still another busy year at Carey Park Golf Course in Hutchinson in 2021.&nbsp;After the COVID-driven year of 2020 that saw the most rounds played in years, the course was not quite as busy. Parks Director Justin Combs released the numbers, which show 25,850 rounds played in 2021 compared with 26,259 in 2020. But all was not rosy in 2020 as the pandemic forced the shutdown of the pro shop for most of the year with very limited business. With the shop open again, revenue for the course was up by more than 7% in 2021 at $686,440.Combs says the five-year average for the course is about 22,500 rounds a season, so 2021 was still a success. He also noted that the course has been able to provide good service even with the challenges offered up by the pandemic.

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