Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

4/1/2024 3:07 AM-Haylea	Marie Getman-Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm&nbsp;

3/31/2024 10:07 PM-Jasmine	Nikole Claycomb-Drugs; Distribute Substance containing Heroin / Methamphetamine; 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; Poss of hallucinogenic drug

3/31/2024 7:18 PM-Kevin	Leigh Towell-Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Criminal Restraint; Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Abuse of a child; Torture or beating child &lt;18

3/31/2024 1:13 PM-Larry	Wayne Kelley-Failure to Appear

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;4/1/2024 3:07 AM-Haylea	Marie Getman-Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm&nbsp;3/31/2024 10:07 PM-Jasmine	Nikole Claycomb-Drugs; Distribute Substance containing Heroin / Methamphetamine; 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Drugs; Paraphernalia; Sell/Distribute/Possess for illegal use; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; Poss of hallucinogenic drug3/31/2024 7:18 PM-Kevin	Leigh Towell-Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Criminal Restraint; Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Abuse of a child; Torture or beating child &lt;183/31/2024 1:13 PM-Larry	Wayne Kelley-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

MCPHERSON, Kan. — On Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 3:29 a.m. McPherson Police Department responded to a shooting which occured in the 400 Block of East Avenue A. 

     A 41 year old male was at home when he heard someone trying to get into his residence. The homeowner went to the door with his firearm. The male suspect attempted to enter the residence and the homeowner fired his weapon onetime hitting the suspect in the abdomen. 

McPherson EMS transported the male suspect to the McPherson Hospital. The male suspect was later transferred to Hutchinson Regional Hospital with serious but non life threatening injuries. 

    There is no danger to the public as this was an isolated incident. 

     This investigation is ongoing by the McPherson Police Department. 

If anyone has any information about this incident they are encouraged to contact the McPherson Police Department. 

As always, we ask our residents to remember the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/9pm?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUD_FVa63P1GgfHhzheZuDZG1iiGoZ_VMLCrJ53dJwY516p_zFZEwhIm0RrVttZ2_ciuugR6q0R3-LaFtxGioCsdtdz4d1-_PBuSbLaVl0xHhTWslQe9BG8wcPCzwGAU1TSmJLdahIpCigvEPUwdJK5RZ0dcffsrWfyc5RLTahVqEpJoCiJTygaZ5LgIdJk6zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#9pm</a> routine. Keep your vehicles, residences, and garages locked and keep your valuables secured and out of sight.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711889972995.jpeg" alt="McPherson Release" />
 <figcaption>McPherson Release</figcaption>
 </figure>McPherson Police DepartmentMCPHERSON, Kan. — On Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 3:29 a.m. McPherson Police Department responded to a shooting which occured in the 400 Block of East Avenue A. A 41 year old male was at home when he heard someone trying to get into his residence. The homeowner went to the door with his firearm. The male suspect attempted to enter the residence and the homeowner fired his weapon onetime hitting the suspect in the abdomen. McPherson EMS transported the male suspect to the McPherson Hospital. The male suspect was later transferred to Hutchinson Regional Hospital with serious but non life threatening injuries. There is no danger to the public as this was an isolated incident. This investigation is ongoing by the McPherson Police Department. If anyone has any information about this incident they are encouraged to contact the McPherson Police Department. As always, we ask our residents to remember the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/9pm?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZUD_FVa63P1GgfHhzheZuDZG1iiGoZ_VMLCrJ53dJwY516p_zFZEwhIm0RrVttZ2_ciuugR6q0R3-LaFtxGioCsdtdz4d1-_PBuSbLaVl0xHhTWslQe9BG8wcPCzwGAU1TSmJLdahIpCigvEPUwdJK5RZ0dcffsrWfyc5RLTahVqEpJoCiJTygaZ5LgIdJk6zs&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#9pm</a> routine. Keep your vehicles, residences, and garages locked and keep your valuables secured and out of sight.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

McPherson resident shoots intruder Easter morning

Editor's Note: Below is the transcript of the interview conducted with Hutchinson area pastors aired on Good Friday, March 29, 2024.

Nick Gosnell: Good morning, joining us this morning, we have several pastors from the Hutchinson area, Matt Stafford from First Congregational, Kent Peterson from Inspire Church, Roy Jaye from First Southern Baptist, John Wolf from Temple Baptist, and Andy Addis from CrossPoint, all with us to talk about the Easter season, Good Friday and Easter, and just to look a little bit introspectively as we go through this springtime season. But Matt, you five guys, you enjoy each other's company, I know that for sure. We've done a little bit before we even started this recording, and we are recording because it's Good Friday, you all are busy. Give us a chance to talk about the agreement here, and there's quite a bit of it. 

Matt Stafford: The agreement here is one that we all are in unity with, and that is the resurrection is the central theme in every Christian sermon that you find reported in Acts, and the resurrection as consequences were the gospel, that's the good news that all of our churches preach and teach, and to preach Christianity meant to the apostles primarily to preach the resurrection. So we all gather here today with the unity that we believe in a resurrected living Christ.

Nick Gosnell: I'm going to start with Kent, not just because he's my pastor, full disclosure, but because it's left to right in the room, and that way I don't get lost. So that's what we're going with here. But as the resurrection gives meaning to everything else, Kent, what do you say to somebody who maybe is just learning the story for the first time? 

Kent Pedersen: Well, it's honestly hard for me to believe that someone in America is learning the story for the first time, but we are in postmodern, it is not a surprise as well. But for someone that is hearing it for the first time, first of all, I think it's a great advantage in many ways, because we can get to the point that we hear about the resurrection, and that's why we want to keep it before us. It can lose its kind of awe and power that we've heard it for so many times, and we just, we take it for granted. For someone that would have never heard it before, certainly tough to believe. Matt kind of referenced earlier, maybe before, without the resurrection, we have nothing. We're nothing more than, at the end of the day, and the end of our, for lack of a better word, our careers, we're nothing more than motivational speakers that are selling a false hope. So it's all on the resurrection, and it's the power of God, it's the wisdom of God. If you've never heard, I think it's a great, great thing to tell, hard thing to believe. 

Nick Gosnell: First Corinthians talks about just, it doesn't matter who you hear as a it matters Christ crucified, where Paul says, I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So Roy, what are you hoping in this Easter season to grow, not only in your congregation, but Hutch generally? 

Roy Jaye: Just the interest in the mysterious story of the gospel. There's a reason that scripture talks about faith. Faith is, is trusting in that you can't see and touch, but putting trust and confidence in that, and the object of the Christian faith is Jesus Christ. So that is a great faith. That is the only eternal faith, when you look at scripture and you see that. I pray that God will use us in sparking people's interest. Those, we're surprised, as you pose the question to Kent, there's people in Hutch, the name of Jesus is very new to them. I just want that mysterious part of the gospel, as in the supernatural part, which includes this literal resurrection of this God man, this fully God and fully man, this savior, his body's gone. They never found it. I hope that that is what the Lord uses in drawing people to himself to see the hope. There's more to life than just life. This life is not the end. It's just the beginning.

Nick Gosnell: John Wolf from Temple Baptist. Do you believe that actually believing that there was a real person named Jesus and he really died and he really rose is important? 

John Wolf: Yeah, I think it's absolutely critical. It's not just important. It is essential. Yes, there was a real person, multiple accounts. I love the gospel of Luke because at the beginning of the gospel of Luke, he says, I'm writing, he tells us his sources and their primary sources, which you had to be an eyewitness or you had to be involved or he didn't talk to you, and then he says, I'm writing so that you may know for certain. And he was writing to somebody who had heard of all the stories about the Greek gods and he says, this one's different. Because this one, he comes in as fully God, as Roy mentioned, fully God, fully man. I mean, he takes a whole chapter to expound that. And then later talks about the death, burial and resurrection as a friend of mine would say, actual, factual and physical thing that took place. And Luke was trained as a physician. So for him to say, yes, he rose from the dead is absolutely the key. And if we don't have that, if we're saying, well, no, I'm not sure that that's accurate, then where do we go with our flaws? Where do we go with our sin? We have no hope without that.

Nick Gosnell: And so, Andy, talk about the man Jesus for just a second, because fully God and fully man is hard, is a hard concept to come across. But on the cross is one of the areas where where you really do see Jesus' humanity. 

Andy Addis: Absolutely. I mean, we call it the incarnation, meaning that he wasn't half God and half man. He was fully God and fully man, the only man to ever walk the face of the earth who was that. C.S. Lewis tells us that the claims that he makes put us in what he called a trilemma, that if Jesus really is who he said he was, if Jesus was to die on the cross and come back from the grave, then he is one of three things. He is Lord, liar or lunatic. He says he's a lunatic on the level of a man who claims he's a poached egg. He's a liar straight out of the depths of hell because he is giving you, like Kent said a moment ago, a false hope, or he is actually Lord. And that means he is worth submitting to. So if he is this God man, when we see him on the cross and we see him suffer, not only did he cry out things like, this is your mother, this is your son. He was setting up welfare between one of his disciples and his mom from the cross. Father, forgive them. They don't know what they do. I mean, that was an incredible statement. But my favorite, one of the gospels says just in a loud voice, he cried. But then in yet another gospel, I believe it's in John, you actually know what he said. He goes, it is finished. And that was the Greek word tetelestai, where he had displayed his brokenness in the not weakness, but his humanness in the garden, sweating drops of blood from the cross. He cried a victory cry and basically said, we have won. The debt is paid and the battle is over.

Nick Gosnell: Good Friday, Easter weekend happening. And so we wanted to give them a chance to talk a little bit about Easter. And we'll start with Matt again, this time...there are those folks, some that have other religion traditions going through the month of Ramadan with Islamic folks and so on that say, yeah, Jesus happened. He was real, but he was just a good teacher like our good teachers are. Where do Christians differ from that? 

Matt Stafford: Well, where Christians differ is that if he's just a good teacher, then there's no salvation. There's no Lord. He's basically just somebody that you go to to get advice. And the Christians look at it. Let me just back up and say this. You know, there are a lot of people who say, hey, we're in the land of the living, headed to the land of the dying. But that's just the opposite. We live in the land of the dying, headed to the land of the living. And if anybody needs to be reminded of that, look at the obituaries. The death rate among humans is still 100%. What Jesus did is come and proclaim that I am God, the creator God. I've come because I want a relationship with you. You're my creation and you are lost and I'm going to redeem you. And guess what? It's all because of who I am. It's by grace. Compare that to any other religion. You have to do something to earn it. You must climb the rung. You must make sure you deserve this or you're not quite there. Some say you got to come back, try it again. But we believe that we are fruit from the giver of life. And that is Jesus. So, and to be honest with you, if Jesus is not the savior, if he did not rise from the dead, I'm out. 

Nick Gosnell: Back to Kent once again. Kent, you have daughters, I have sons. When you try to communicate this message to the next generation, how do you do it? How do you say to a generation that says, is anything true anymore? We've watched people go through a pandemic and life completely changed. And there's more confusion, depression, mental illness that is at the forefront of life than I can ever remember in my lifetime. But yet we're supposed to have hope? I know it's hard for me to get that across to my boys, and I know that your girls are out of the house now, but how do you get that across? 

Kent Pedersen: Well, that's a great question. I'm thinking that, you know, one is what we're all trying to say here is that we're all hanging on to a hope. I mean, we are holding on to hope and we have no hope if there is no resurrection. If there is no real Jesus that is, Andy said, fully God, fully human, we have no hope. And Jesus is the only one of any religion that makes any claim, or we're the ones that make any claim that we actually serve one that was once dead and is alive again. Muhammad, they didn't do that. Buddha, Hindus may come back as something. There's no other claim that their leader, their God is resurrected, that was once dead and is alive again. And again, that we hold our everything on that hope of the resurrected Christ, that 500 witnesses saw him, that all the disciples...the message I'm preaching from on Easter Sunday is going down to Sunday night when they were all still gathered in fear behind closed doors. You know, even though the women had seen him, and even though Peter and John had seen the empty tomb, they were still in fear that night until they saw the resurrected Jesus. And of course, you know, 50 days later, the church exploded in power because they had gone from being cowards to being courageous, not because of what they believed, but for what they saw. 

Nick Gosnell: We have the Bible, Roy, to go back to in reference, but we don't have that what they saw component. So again, not to harp on the same thing, but how do we get the reality of the resurrection across to people when you don't have the, well, I know Peter, we went fishing when I was a boy, kind of a way of working of things. 

Roy Jaye: We point them towards the little Jesuses that we know. See, there's a lot of little Jesuses in Hutch, they're called born again Christians, and God's spirit is alive in them. And so we point them towards those people who were blind, but now they see. We point them towards those people who were lost and they were seeking, but now they're found. And everyone who is around them sees and realizes, wait a minute, this is more than a relationship with a church or denomination. He is transformed. She is transformed. And that's a huge part of it, Nick, is we don't use testimonies, and Andy's one of the strongest storytellers around, and he reminds me the power of stories. We need to be sure children hear stories of transformation, not only from books, but from people's mouths. And the evidence that Christ is alive is He's alive in me. He's alive in you, and I praise Him. 

Nick Gosnell: Well, that brings me back to the lyrics of the old hymn, I serve a risen Savior. He's in the world today. 

I know that He is living, whatever men may say. I see His hand of mercy. I hear His voice of cheer, and just the time I need Him, He's always near. 

He lives, He lives. Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart. 

Nick Gosnell: Roy Jaye from First Southern Baptist, Kent Peterson from Inspire Church, Matt Stafford from First Congregational, John Wolf from Temple Baptist, and Andy Addis from Crosspoint talking about Easter, John, what does it mean to make Jesus Lord of your life? That's a churchy phrase. Put it into English for us. 

John Wolf: You're right, and I try to not use churchy language, but very simply, it means I have to remove myself as being in charge of my own life. When I think I'm the captain of my ship, when I think I'm in charge of my destiny, I make myself God of my life. And so for Jesus to be Lord means, Andy used the word submit, I prefer the word surrender. I'm going to surrender not just my thoughts, but my agenda, my preferences, my schedule, which frequently does not go the way I planned, etc. Surrender all that, even the things good and the things that I interpret as not so good coming to me, I surrender them to Him and His will and what He wants to do with them in my life. It is a complete and total saying, you're in charge and I'll do whatever you need me to do. 

Nick Gosnell: Andy, how can you surrender to somebody who allows, pick your catastrophe? Sandy Hook, Uvalde, the crisis at the southern border humanitarian-wise, Gaza, walk through the news cycle over the last several years, how can you call a God Lord who lets all that happen? 

Andy Addis: Well, first of all, you have to understand that humanity as a part of creation is going to serve. Let's go to the old prophet Bob Dylan. It may be the devil or it may be the Lord, but you're going to have to serve somebody. And that's, you see that in Romans 6, you're either a slave to sin or a slave to righteousness. But what you're asking is the philosophical problem of the problem of good and evil. And to answer that, how do you serve a God who makes all this stuff happen? Well, first of all, that's an assumption. He didn't make any of this happen. That every cancer, every death, every time you've cried into the pillow at night because your heart was broken, every time you've been stabbed in the back, it's because of humanity turning away from God and not what God has done to them. The Garden of Eden was the beginning of the mess that we lived in perfection. Think about this. They were naked, knew no shame. All they had to do was pick fruit, eat, be fruitful and multiply. There were no taxes. Can I get an amen? So everything was perfect. With disobedience came sin and with sin came death. And all of that pain is death. So when you say, how can you serve a God who, you know, the question is, why don't we run to a God who will save us from, the reality is that when you say that these things exist and you blame God, the only reason he's blameable is that he gave us free will and that we got to choose. But if we didn't get to choose, you say, if God knew that that was our choice, then why didn't he save us from that? Well, then there would never be a relationship. We would never truly love him nor hate him. We would never choose good nor evil. We'd be robots, instinctual creatures. But God took the risk because he wanted one creature that would love him back as much as he loved them. And we have suffered the consequences of choosing poorly, but we can't blame God for those things, yet we should run to him in the midst of them. 

Nick Gosnell: Andy got the hard question and I freely admit that. But that's where, when there are tragedies that happen, whether they're way out somewhere else where we don't know where they're at or whether they're right on our doorstep, because it's your child that has the cancer diagnosis, or it's your parent that is in a terrible accident, or it's your whatever, whatever person you're closest to, all of a sudden something happens and their life changes completely. I'll go to Kent for this one, but there is comfort in knowing that we're not in charge of it, isn't there? 

Kent Pedersen: There is a comfort in that God is sovereign and that we're not God because it's way beyond our scope. His ways are higher than our ways. His thoughts are greater than our thoughts. I know that can sound churchish or a little trite, but the reality is so many of these things we're talking about here is way above my pay grade. And if we spend our time in those areas of trying to understand that, I think we'll lose out on the hope of the future that God has for us. He came to redeem and restore what was lost and was broken. And even in death, as Psalm 23 says, we are in a fear no evil for God is with us if we hold on to the hope of that relationship that he died for us. He paid the penalty for our sin. He rose again. And because of that, yes, this life has its heart hurts and heartaches and brokenness. But there is a day that God is going to set things all straight, make all things right. And he's going to restore us to that paradise, that Eden that was at the beginning. He's working towards that end for all of us, if we will believe. 

Nick Gosnell: Well, it's wonderful to have an us. But Matt, in this business, we're always told to talk to one person and that you always have a conversation between you and the one person over there listening on the radio, because only their set of there may be a thousand sets of ears listening, but only one at a time. That's what a relationship with Jesus is about, isn't it? It's about it's about you. I mean, I'm using the word you generally to mean the person on the other end of this conversation we're having on the radio, you individually and God, not you and grandma who loved Jesus very much or you and your wife or husband who is a wonderful Christian or you and your kids who keep dragging you to church because they love Sunday School. It's about you and Jesus, isn't it? 

Matt Stafford: I would say 100 percent that to begin with, but I believe he's created the church to be a community for us to gather together as the body of Christ so that we know we can lean on each other. You know, hope has been mentioned here. Well, hope has a name and the name is Jesus. Jesus prayed in the garden right before the crucifixion. He prayed for his disciples. He goes, they're not in the world. They're not of the world, but they're in the world. And then he prayed. I pray for those who will believe, which means he had a relationship with us before we were born. I'm praying for those who will believe. And then on the cross, he's challenged by one of those on each side of him saying, if you are who you say you are, change my circumstances. Jesus doesn't even answer that person. Why? Because he did not come to save the physical. He cannot save the corrupted. But the one who says, remember me, he said, today, you will be with me in paradise, which means what? Not your, not your body. We have to remember that we do not have a soul. We are a soul. And so that that person out there right now who's listening to this says, I have nowhere else left to turn. Jesus has got you to that position so that you can look to him and say, my name is hope. And I can change you from the inside out, I may not change your circumstances, but I will help you through them. I will get you through them. The next church you drive by, you might want to just go in there and say, I've come here to find Jesus.

Nick Gosnell: I just want to give everybody a chance to talk about their their Easter and Holy Week services. So what's happening when, we'll start with Roy. 

Roy Jaye: On Easter Sunday, 6:45 a.m. sunrise service. Again, weather will dictate we're planning on being outside, breakfast following after that. And then our regular 10:45 service on Easter Sunday, on Resurrection Sunday. And we have free family portraits for all guests. We have a beautiful backdrop all ready for Easter 2024 and guests will receive free family portraits. And so love to see you there on Sunday. 

John Wolf: On Easter Sunday at 1030, as it will be our main resurrection service, we're going to begin the celebration by baptizing some folks who have just recently found Jesus. I can't think of a better way. And we'll also celebrate the way he taught us to by the sacrament he gave us. And we'll do that at 10:30 on Easter Sunday morning and and just relish in the thought of being together with family. 

Andy Addis: We have a number of locations across the state. So if you're not in Hutchinson, if you go to Crosspointchurch.com, you can look up your city where we have Crosspoint Church. But in Hutch on Good Friday, we'll have two Good Friday services at 5 and 7 p.m. And then on Easter weekend, we have five services, two on Saturday at 5 and 7 p.m. and three on Sunday at 7:30, 9 and 11. 

Nick Gosnell: All right, Kent, at Inspire Church? 

Kent Pedersen: Thank you, Andy, for that. You can go to inspirehutch.church and get all our information on everything going on at Inspire Church. But our Good Friday service is 6:30 on Friday night. And we have two services, Resurrection Sunday, 9:30 and 10:45. And as John is doing, we're looking forward to having baptisms as well. Celebrate Resurrection Day. All right, Sands, First Congregational, Matt. Yes, thank you. We're very traditional in our normal Easter service. And you can go to firstcongregationalhutch.org to find out more information. 

Nick Gosnell: All right, we still have two, maybe three minutes left, which I'm hoping is enough for Matt. But really, I wanted to step back for just a second and say to that person on the other side of the radio, if they are ready to make a decision to make this Easter the first Easter that they're a Christian. I had the privilege, when my son was 10 years old, Easter morning is when he came to know Jesus for the very first time. And that was really fun, my oldest. And so if somebody says, you know what, it's all falling into place for me now. I understand what you're saying, and I believe what the Bible says. How can they do that? And how would you suggest? 

Matt Stafford: Well, as Scripture tells us, whosoever shall call upon in the name of the Lord shall be saved. And I would encourage them to just kneel down or sit down wherever they are right now and just call out to Christ. I mean, whoever calls out to him will not be turned away, not at all. And then find a good church home in Hutchinson, because we have a lot of them.  This is just a small representation of all the pastors and churches we are aware with. And I want to just speak also to those out there who may have not been going to church for a long time. And I want you to know how much Jesus loves you. And as a follower of Jesus, it's not tied to your ability to meet his expectations. And there is no such thing as a lost cause when there's grace.

Nick Gosnell: Well, gentlemen, thank you so much for your time. This is just a wonderful opportunity for people. And what they also need to understand is there's no minimum here. There's no maximum here. Everybody comes to the cross at the same place. Whether you feel like, hey, I'm a pretty good guy. I've done life right. Or boy, I haven't. In case we have any of the listeners even up to and including inside the prison here in Hutchinson, if they happen to have their radio on this morning. From one end of the spectrum to the other in human terms, it doesn't matter. There's no difference between the one and the other. They all have that shortcoming between their standard and God's standard. And Jesus is the only way to bridge the gap, isn't it, Matt? 

Matt Stafford: Exactly right. That you go to any of our churches, all these men who've spoken today, they're going to tell you the same thing. All are sinning and coming short of the glory of God. And it's only through Christ's work and grace that gives you a chance, gives you a chance to say, I need to get this burden removed from me. And go to these churches, go to their websites, look them up. I mean, if you want to go see a baptism, go to Inspire and go to Temple coming Easter Sunday, and you'll see what that is a testimony. Okay, there's no righteous work in that. It's a testimony that I was dirty and now I'm clean because of Jesus Christ. And it's also a testimony, I believe in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. So I think people out there know you either got Christ in your heart or you don't. But he's always calling out, come unto to me and I will give you rest. 

Our thanks to pastors Roy Jaye,  Kent Pedersen, John Wolfe, Andy Addis, and Matt Stafford for joining us and to you for listening as well. Happy Easter, everyone.

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🎧 LISTEN: Audio and Transcript from Good Friday interview with Hutchinson pastors

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington told Hutch Post that there has been quite a bit of work done on the new shooting range for the Reno County Sheriff's Office out by the Reno County Landfill.

"We're on phase one right now of the shooting range," Partington said. "The berms are up at the landfill, the concrete platform, I believe, has been laid. They are working on the awning that would go over where the shooting would take place, the canopy. That's phase one, that's in process right now."

The sheriff's office then wants to count the cost again before going forward with the rest of the project.

"I believe the sheriff has reached out to the contractors to get updated cost estimates for the training building that was going to be phase two, so that the sheriff and myself can then go to the County Commission sometime this spring with those updated numbers to see if the county commission wants to move forward with phase two."

The officers would be able to use the area for practice after phase one, but in order to have additional classes or host other groups, it would be best if they had the building to use.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679423947823.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Administrator Randy Partington told Hutch Post that there has been quite a bit of work done on the new shooting range for the Reno County Sheriff's Office out by the Reno County Landfill."We're on phase one right now of the shooting range," Partington said. "The berms are up at the landfill, the concrete platform, I believe, has been laid. They are working on the awning that would go over where the shooting would take place, the canopy. That's phase one, that's in process right now."The sheriff's office then wants to count the cost again before going forward with the rest of the project."I believe the sheriff has reached out to the contractors to get updated cost estimates for the training building that was going to be phase two, so that the sheriff and myself can then go to the County Commission sometime this spring with those updated numbers to see if the county commission wants to move forward with phase two."The officers would be able to use the area for practice after phase one, but in order to have additional classes or host other groups, it would be best if they had the building to use.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Shooting range for county progressing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cancer Council of Reno County announced March 27 that&nbsp;Katie Brown will be joining the group as CCRC's Director of Fundraising and Events.

Brown has served on the Board of Directors for the past two years and has big plans for the fundraisers that CCRC already does plus many new ideas. 

Brown is finishing her fifth year as a 4th grade teacher at Morgan Elementary, but she'll also stay involved with the Salthawks starting next year by serving at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068211242768&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXeoK9mKuOY83J_ot4ARAitH5foLf1Hb3vY6teCT-EKRRwKJYfK8ly3hdkZ9JuA90k2kNu-N_GqRKEu5bLg1yNjU17WAf_57Ox2mhS-fcbVeQyr3wHfnPnKT0F3O9xoq-x0KCrL_pbXHFj7ogeH46J8Jh2XsAAQ2CV_gOmc_wC4v11Q8_Hm6z8chbqT01ZbYmI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Salthawk Community Support</a> as&nbsp;Volunteer Coordinator beginning with the 2024-25 school year.

Her primary responsibilities will be to recruit, train and support volunteers to serve as student mentors and tutors at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School 8.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711816720719.jpeg" alt="Katie Brown" />
 <figcaption>Katie Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cancer Council of Reno County announced March 27 that&nbsp;Katie Brown will be joining the group as CCRC's Director of Fundraising and Events.Brown has served on the Board of Directors for the past two years and has big plans for the fundraisers that CCRC already does plus many new ideas. Brown is finishing her fifth year as a 4th grade teacher at Morgan Elementary, but she'll also stay involved with the Salthawks starting next year by serving at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068211242768&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXeoK9mKuOY83J_ot4ARAitH5foLf1Hb3vY6teCT-EKRRwKJYfK8ly3hdkZ9JuA90k2kNu-N_GqRKEu5bLg1yNjU17WAf_57Ox2mhS-fcbVeQyr3wHfnPnKT0F3O9xoq-x0KCrL_pbXHFj7ogeH46J8Jh2XsAAQ2CV_gOmc_wC4v11Q8_Hm6z8chbqT01ZbYmI&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Salthawk Community Support</a> as&nbsp;Volunteer Coordinator beginning with the 2024-25 school year. Her primary responsibilities will be to recruit, train and support volunteers to serve as student mentors and tutors at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School 8.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Nonprofits announce hiring of USD 308 teacher

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;

3/30/2024 6:09 PM-Ray	Jeff Best-Failure to Appear; In Transit From-To Other Agency

3/30/2024 12:48 PM-Matthew	Thomas Gamber-Viol protection order; Condition of release

3/30/2024 12:16 PM-Kendall	Loula Ryan-Failure to Appear

3/30/2024 7:16 AM-Sommer	Nicole Logan-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;3/30/2024 6:09 PM-Ray	Jeff Best-Failure to Appear; In Transit From-To Other Agency3/30/2024 12:48 PM-Matthew	Thomas Gamber-Viol protection order; Condition of release3/30/2024 12:16 PM-Kendall	Loula Ryan-Failure to Appear3/30/2024 7:16 AM-Sommer	Nicole Logan-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Coming into Saturday's championship game, the Barton County Cougars had won the three NJCAA Tournament games in which they played by 15, 14 and 15 points respectively. 

The Cougars kept that trend of double digit victories in the tournament, and Barton took the title home with an 88-73 win over Triton Saturday afternoon at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.

Triton hung with Barton for most of the game, but it was a 7-0 spurt by Ring Malith that got the Cougars going and gave them a 23-21 lead at the 8:06 mark of the first half. Malith then kept it rolling for 18 points in the first half. Hutch High graduate Myles Thompson had 15 before halftime for the Cougars and Barton led at the break 46-39.

The big stat for Barton was points in the paint as they outscored Triton 34-20 in the red, as Thompson led the Cougars with a game-high 27 points. Malith had 22. Cooper Jackson and Lajae Jones each scored 14 for Barton.

Dior Conners paced the Trojans with 24 points, Amar Aguillard had 23 and Dylan Williams and AJ Dixon each added 10.

Barton's biggest lead was 15, and Triton got it as close as five with a Conners three with 3:48 to play. After that, Thompson was fouled and made a pair of free throws, the Trojans turned it over and Thompson hit a hook, then Barton got a steal but missed two layups. Aguillard tried one from deep to cut it to two possessions and missed and then the dagger came from Cooper Jackson from three at 2:34 to go and Triton never got within single digits after that.&nbsp;

Jones was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. Thompson and Malith made the all-tournament team, along with Aguillard and Dixon from Triton.

Barton wins the title at 36-1. Triton ends their season at 34-3.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711830323273.jpeg" alt="Barton and Triton played in the NJCAA Men's Division I basketball tournament final on March 30, 2024. Photo by Nick Gosnell." />
 <figcaption>Barton and Triton played in the NJCAA Men's Division I basketball tournament final on March 30, 2024. Photo by Nick Gosnell.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Coming into Saturday's championship game, the Barton County Cougars had won the three NJCAA Tournament games in which they played by 15, 14 and 15 points respectively. The Cougars kept that trend of double digit victories in the tournament, and Barton took the title home with an 88-73 win over Triton Saturday afternoon at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.Triton hung with Barton for most of the game, but it was a 7-0 spurt by Ring Malith that got the Cougars going and gave them a 23-21 lead at the 8:06 mark of the first half. Malith then kept it rolling for 18 points in the first half. Hutch High graduate Myles Thompson had 15 before halftime for the Cougars and Barton led at the break 46-39.The big stat for Barton was points in the paint as they outscored Triton 34-20 in the red, as Thompson led the Cougars with a game-high 27 points. Malith had 22. Cooper Jackson and Lajae Jones each scored 14 for Barton.Dior Conners paced the Trojans with 24 points, Amar Aguillard had 23 and Dylan Williams and AJ Dixon each added 10.Barton's biggest lead was 15, and Triton got it as close as five with a Conners three with 3:48 to play. After that, Thompson was fouled and made a pair of free throws, the Trojans turned it over and Thompson hit a hook, then Barton got a steal but missed two layups. Aguillard tried one from deep to cut it to two possessions and missed and then the dagger came from Cooper Jackson from three at 2:34 to go and Triton never got within single digits after that.&nbsp;Jones was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player. Thompson and Malith made the all-tournament team, along with Aguillard and Dixon from Triton.Barton wins the title at 36-1. Triton ends their season at 34-3.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Barton has a Ring; Malith, Thompson spark Cougars to title

NEWTON, Kan. — Assistant Water/Wastewater Superintendent Nathan Phillips received the Special Recognition Award at the 2024 Kansas Rural Water Association Conference in Wichita this week. The award recognizes someone who has demonstrated commendable service to their community.

Nathan began his career with the City of Newton as an entry-level maintenance worker in 2013. He worked his way through the ranks and was promoted to Assistant Superintendent in 2023. Over the years, Nathan has earned numerous water and wastewater certifications, and he most recently completed the Certified Public Manager program through the KU Public Management Center.

Nathan exhibits his commitment to the organization through a servant leadership attitude. He helps with after-hours calls, researches equipment purchases, goes the extra mile to train newer staff, organizes daily tasks of the division, and leads by example in all he does.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711790675161.jpeg" alt="City of Newton Assistant Water/Wastewater Superintendent Nathan Phillips" />
 <figcaption>City of Newton Assistant Water/Wastewater Superintendent Nathan Phillips</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — Assistant Water/Wastewater Superintendent Nathan Phillips received the Special Recognition Award at the 2024 Kansas Rural Water Association Conference in Wichita this week. The award recognizes someone who has demonstrated commendable service to their community.Nathan began his career with the City of Newton as an entry-level maintenance worker in 2013. He worked his way through the ranks and was promoted to Assistant Superintendent in 2023. Over the years, Nathan has earned numerous water and wastewater certifications, and he most recently completed the Certified Public Manager program through the KU Public Management Center.Nathan exhibits his commitment to the organization through a servant leadership attitude. He helps with after-hours calls, researches equipment purchases, goes the extra mile to train newer staff, organizes daily tasks of the division, and leads by example in all he does.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Newton city worker gets statewide award

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dr. Johnson gives a brief history of the facilities steering committee, and asks for your input via phone interview, online survey and community meetings.

You can find the community meeting schedule at: <a href="https://u345601.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.AWagEuh61Tby9DP97u1iB6tyil0JH-2BCARJ8gmzLDknBX2eKFXEY6qAnrXiAg6uOLey45_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqv359eNi8rg7f7wIhYsOBEPaLq6FR0leMyJaNk2A-2BaOU-2B-2BS-2F8XJaZLQwuzgmhkgz16OOUdwLNyuPQpifrDtLi4kq-2BU9Pk5cYXaE1ILsHChE1DqldYv-2BD3U-2BtsGPaRC3t8jHqgf4h3b2omii9BnIHP32XQyrKF3oPmSjQaLQGqBsScNEySIUTUUSPE-2FSZWVXDXvWXJki3nohA70LcA1UvyIp6pvLpfyJNCsndjr6X1vCKYpYcfShI25PTqkUwIbWIl" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/communitymeetings</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711790133303.jpeg" alt="Dawn Johnson from March 29, 2024" />
 <figcaption>Dawn Johnson from March 29, 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>STACY GOSS Hutchinson USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dr. Johnson gives a brief history of the facilities steering committee, and asks for your input via phone interview, online survey and community meetings.<div><iframe width="928" height="522" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N4wAkDb2hko" title="Hawk Talk March 29th" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>You can find the community meeting schedule at: <a href="https://u345601.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.AWagEuh61Tby9DP97u1iB6tyil0JH-2BCARJ8gmzLDknBX2eKFXEY6qAnrXiAg6uOLey45_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqv359eNi8rg7f7wIhYsOBEPaLq6FR0leMyJaNk2A-2BaOU-2B-2BS-2F8XJaZLQwuzgmhkgz16OOUdwLNyuPQpifrDtLi4kq-2BU9Pk5cYXaE1ILsHChE1DqldYv-2BD3U-2BtsGPaRC3t8jHqgf4h3b2omii9BnIHP32XQyrKF3oPmSjQaLQGqBsScNEySIUTUUSPE-2FSZWVXDXvWXJki3nohA70LcA1UvyIp6pvLpfyJNCsndjr6X1vCKYpYcfShI25PTqkUwIbWIl" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/communitymeetings</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hawk Talk-March 29, 2024

RENO COUNTY — Recent cold weather has caused the Kansas Department of Transportation to adjust project schedules for closure and reopening of two ramps at the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction in Reno County.

The ramp connecting westbound U.S. 50 to northbound K-14 is now expected to reopen about 10 a.m. Saturday, March 30. The ramp is expected to be closed again Tuesday, April 2, and to reopen about 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 3.

The ramp connecting southbound K-14 to westbound U.S. 50 is now expected to close Wednesday, April 3, and reopen about 10 a.m. Saturday, April 6.

During the closures, motorists should seek other routes.

The ramp work is part of a nearly $3.6 million patching project on K-14. The KDOT project is from the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction north to Yaggy Road.&nbsp;The length is almost 7 miles. The work is expected to be completed around mid-August.

During the work, K-14 traffic will be restricted to one lane and controlled by flaggers or a pilot car. Ramps will be closed at times. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.

Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., of Victor, Iowa, is the primary contractor for the $3,559,085 project.

For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711789801973.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TIM POTTER KDOTRENO COUNTY — Recent cold weather has caused the Kansas Department of Transportation to adjust project schedules for closure and reopening of two ramps at the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction in Reno County.The ramp connecting westbound U.S. 50 to northbound K-14 is now expected to reopen about 10 a.m. Saturday, March 30. The ramp is expected to be closed again Tuesday, April 2, and to reopen about 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 3.The ramp connecting southbound K-14 to westbound U.S. 50 is now expected to close Wednesday, April 3, and reopen about 10 a.m. Saturday, April 6.During the closures, motorists should seek other routes.The ramp work is part of a nearly $3.6 million patching project on K-14. The KDOT project is from the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction north to Yaggy Road.&nbsp;The length is almost 7 miles. The work is expected to be completed around mid-August.During the work, K-14 traffic will be restricted to one lane and controlled by flaggers or a pilot car. Ramps will be closed at times. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., of Victor, Iowa, is the primary contractor for the $3,559,085 project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

U.S. 50 to K-14 closures adjusted again

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Pursuant to K.S.A. 12-5903, a copy of the Hutchinson Land Bank property inventory and budget must be published in the official city newspaper on an annual basis. 

Hutch Post was provided a copy of this notice, even though posting it with us online is not required.

The list below contains an itemization of properties owned by the Hutchinson Land Bank as of December 31, 2023.

00000 N Walnut St&nbsp; 49’ W x 165’ D

316 E Avenue E&nbsp; &nbsp;33’ W x 165’ D

00000 (541) E Avenue A&nbsp; 90’ W x 125’ D

712 S Maple St Vacant 120’ W x 150’ D

00000 (915) E Avenue A&nbsp; 90’ W x 185’ D

00000 (539) E Avenue A&nbsp; 50’ W x 125’ D

00000 East Ave E&nbsp; 30’ W x 165’ D

00000 East Ave F&nbsp; 51’ W x 165’ D

00000 (21) Carpenter St&nbsp; 66’ W x 158.7 D

00000 (324) W 6th Ave&nbsp; 45’ W x 165’ D

00000 E Avenue B&nbsp; 30’ W x 179.5’ D

00000 W Avenue A&nbsp; 137’ W x 180’D

00000 East Harvey Street 33’ W x 150’ D

00000 West 6th Avenue&nbsp; 60’W X 143’D

The 2024 Land Bank Annual Budget was approved on Tuesday March 5, 2024, and is as follows:

Our thanks to City of Hutchinson Director of Strategic Growth Dave Sotelo for providing this data.

<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/2020/3/1583236568561.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Pursuant to K.S.A. 12-5903, a copy of the Hutchinson Land Bank property inventory and budget must be published in the official city newspaper on an annual basis. Hutch Post was provided a copy of this notice, even though posting it with us online is not required.The list below contains an itemization of properties owned by the Hutchinson Land Bank as of December 31, 2023.00000 N Walnut St&nbsp; 49’ W x 165’ D316 E Avenue E&nbsp; &nbsp;33’ W x 165’ D00000 (541) E Avenue A&nbsp; 90’ W x 125’ D712 S Maple St Vacant 120’ W x 150’ D00000 (915) E Avenue A&nbsp; 90’ W x 185’ D00000 (539) E Avenue A&nbsp; 50’ W x 125’ D00000 E 7th Ave&nbsp; 52’ W x 107’ D824 E 7th Ave&nbsp; 48’ W x 140’ D00000 East Ave E&nbsp; 30’ W x 165’ D00000 East Ave F&nbsp; 51’ W x 165’ D00000 South Elm&nbsp; 50’ W x 165’ D00000 (21) Carpenter St&nbsp; 66’ W x 158.7 D00000 (324) W 6th Ave&nbsp; 45’ W x 165’ D00000 E Avenue B&nbsp; 30’ W x 179.5’ D00000 W Avenue A&nbsp; 137’ W x 180’D00000 East Harvey Street 33’ W x 150’ D00000 West Sherman 50’W x 150’D00000 West 6th Avenue&nbsp; 60’W X 143’DThe 2024 Land Bank Annual Budget was approved on Tuesday March 5, 2024, and is as follows:ExpensesInsurance $1,200.00Legal and other fees $400.00Title Search $300.00Publication Expenses $400.00Property Maintenance $7,000.00Administration $500.00Funds for Strategic Plan $1,500.00Property Acquisition $2,500.00Advertisement $1,000.00TOTAL $13,700Our thanks to City of Hutchinson Director of Strategic Growth Dave Sotelo for providing this data.<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;

Land Bank property list and budget

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

3/30/2024 2:32 AM-Tristan	J Delaney-DWS; 1st conviction

3/30/2024 1:36 AM-Anthony	Robert Chenoweth-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Theft; Possess Stolen Property; $1,500 to $24,999; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant

3/29/2024 11:11 PM-Erik	Joshua Loya-Viol protection order; Condition of release; Harassment by Telephone; Texting to harass or threaten

3/29/2024 11:08 PM-Patricia	Mary Kathern McAdams-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant

3/29/2024 11:00 PM-Robert	Andrew Unger-DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher&nbsp;

3/29/2024 10:51 PM-Matthew	Thomas Gamber-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

3/29/2024 9:24 PM	Chenault	II	Joel	Kent	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00002201	HPD	2024-00000849		Dower	false

3/29/2024 9:07 PM	Dove		Alisha	Ann	Failure to Appear	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00001264	23CR577	2024-00000848		Arroyo	true

3/29/2024 7:37 PM	Novotny		Austyn	Dakota	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant	$5,500.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011584		2024-00000847	188	Leonard	false

3/29/2024 7:37 PM	Novotny		Austyn	Dakota	Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body	$5,500.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011584		2024-00000847			false

3/29/2024 7:37 PM	Novotny		Austyn	Dakota	Failure to Appear	$5,500.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011584		2024-00000847	188	Leonard	false

3/29/2024 6:22 PM	Walker		Shakayla	Malayka	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00002965		2024-00000846	435	Scott	true

3/29/2024 6:17 PM	Thiel		Kenneth	Allen	Attempted agg battery; Knowingly use phys contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011580		2024-00000845	156	Shuck	true

3/29/2024 2:00 PM	Shores		Owen	Dean	DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00005007		2024-00000844		Kidd	false

3/29/2024 1:43 PM	Ehrlich		Richard	Lavern	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant	$0.00	3/29/2024		20CR872	2024-00000843			false

3/29/2024 1:22 PM	Swanson	Jr	Daniel	Lee	Failure to Appear

3/29/2024 1:07 PM	Cap		Shellie	Rae	Agg battery; Recklessly use deadly weapon	$10,000.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011482		2024-00000841	150	Spencer	false

3/29/2024 12:43 PM	Copeland		Trinity	Kayle	Making False Information	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011537	HPD	2024-00000840	182	Kelly	true

3/29/2024 8:58 AM	King		Alyssa	Nicole	Probation Violation

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;3/30/2024 2:32 AM-Tristan	J Delaney-DWS; 1st conviction3/30/2024 1:36 AM-Anthony	Robert Chenoweth-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Theft; Possess Stolen Property; $1,500 to $24,999; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant3/29/2024 11:11 PM-Erik	Joshua Loya-Viol protection order; Condition of release; Harassment by Telephone; Texting to harass or threaten3/29/2024 11:08 PM-Patricia	Mary Kathern McAdams-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant3/29/2024 11:00 PM-Robert	Andrew Unger-DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher&nbsp;3/29/2024 10:51 PM-Matthew	Thomas Gamber-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)3/29/2024 9:24 PM	Chenault	II	Joel	Kent	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00002201	HPD	2024-00000849		Dower	false3/29/2024 9:07 PM	Dove		Alisha	Ann	Failure to Appear	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00001264	23CR577	2024-00000848		Arroyo	true3/29/2024 7:37 PM	Novotny		Austyn	Dakota	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant	$5,500.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011584		2024-00000847	188	Leonard	false3/29/2024 7:37 PM	Novotny		Austyn	Dakota	Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body	$5,500.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011584		2024-00000847			false3/29/2024 7:37 PM	Novotny		Austyn	Dakota	Failure to Appear	$5,500.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011584		2024-00000847	188	Leonard	false3/29/2024 6:22 PM	Walker		Shakayla	Malayka	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00002965		2024-00000846	435	Scott	true3/29/2024 6:17 PM	Thiel		Kenneth	Allen	Attempted agg battery; Knowingly use phys contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011580		2024-00000845	156	Shuck	true3/29/2024 2:00 PM	Shores		Owen	Dean	DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00005007		2024-00000844		Kidd	false3/29/2024 1:43 PM	Ehrlich		Richard	Lavern	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant	$0.00	3/29/2024		20CR872	2024-00000843			false3/29/2024 1:22 PM	Swanson	Jr	Daniel	Lee	Failure to Appear3/29/2024 1:07 PM	Cap		Shellie	Rae	Agg battery; Recklessly use deadly weapon	$10,000.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011482		2024-00000841	150	Spencer	false3/29/2024 12:43 PM	Copeland		Trinity	Kayle	Making False Information	$0.00	3/29/2024	2024-00011537	HPD	2024-00000840	182	Kelly	true3/29/2024 8:58 AM	King		Alyssa	Nicole	Probation Violation

TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday the reappointment of&nbsp;Paula Landoll-Smith of Marysville, Holly Lofton of Lindsborg and John Leslie of Lawrence to the Kansas State Fair Board.

The Kansas State Fair Board is to act as the showcase of Kansas agriculture, commerce and industry, to provide for education, entertainment and to present a comprehensive format that satisfies the needs and desires of people from all walks of Kansas life. 

 It is incumbent that the total fair effort emphasizes the importance of youth and the family, public and private entities, individuals and the entire population of the state.

Kansas State Fair Board Members serve three year terms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632137511353.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Fair file photo-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Fair file photo-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday the reappointment of&nbsp;Paula Landoll-Smith of Marysville, Holly Lofton of Lindsborg and John Leslie of Lawrence to the Kansas State Fair Board.The Kansas State Fair Board is to act as the showcase of Kansas agriculture, commerce and industry, to provide for education, entertainment and to present a comprehensive format that satisfies the needs and desires of people from all walks of Kansas life. It is incumbent that the total fair effort emphasizes the importance of youth and the family, public and private entities, individuals and the entire population of the state.Kansas State Fair Board Members serve three year terms.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Kansas State Fair Board members reappointed

<div><iframe title="March 29, 2024 News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=k6wg2-15c80e6-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

🎧 LISTEN: March 29, 2024 News

Courtesy of HutchCC Sports Information

With spring drills beginning Monday for the Hutchinson Community College football team, head coach Drew Dallas has announced a reshuffling of coaching duties on his staff for the 2024 season.

The reorganization was prompted with the hiring of two new assistants for the upcoming season.

The new hires to the Blue Dragon staff are Matt Wallerstedt and Conner Lierz.

Wallerstedt is a veteran coach at all levels of college football, including Kansas State. He will become the Blue Dragons’ new defensive coordinator and linebackers’ coach.

Lierz is a familiar name to Blue Dragon football. He is a former offensive lineman who played at Hutchinson Community College in 2018 and 2019. Lierz is the new tight ends coach and assistant strength and conditioning coach

“We are certainly excited about the two new additions to our staff this offseason," Dallas said. "Coach Lierz is a former player who is from the state of Kansas and has great energy and an understanding on what we are all about here at Hutch.&nbsp; Coach Wally is also another Kansas guy.&nbsp; His experience and knowledge are a welcomed addition as we try to continue to elevate our program.”

The other six coaches on staff were with the Blue Dragons last season during a year the Dragons went through the regular season undefeated and won the Jayhawk Conference championship posting a 10-1 overall season.

Dallas has made some changes to some of their duties as well.

Dallas will continue to serve as the Blue Dragon quarterbacks’ coach. Dallas will be in his fifth season as head coach and has posted a four-year record of 38-4.

Matt Martin returns for his third season with the Blue Dragons. Martin is the Dragons’ assistant head coach, wide receivers coach and co-special teams’ coordinator.

Greg Cross returns for his seventh season and has been promoted to Associate Head Coach as well as his position duties with the running backs and as run-game coordinator.

Tony Kohling will be in his second season as Blue Dragon offensive coordinator and offensive line coach.

Andrew Krause returns for his ninth season on the Blue Dragon sideline. Krause returns to the defensive side of the ball as defensive backs coach, co-special teams coordinator and recruiting coordinator.

Former Blue Dragon player Demarcus Roberson returns for his second season on staff as the Dragons’ defensive line coach and assistant strength and condition coach.

Davin Hawkins is back for his second season as the safeties’ coach and is now the head of the strength and conditioning program.

Taylor Martin returns as a student assistant for offensive quality control and Adonis Armstrong is back as a student assistant for defensive quality control.

“This is a great group of men that are not only great coaches but guys that are professionals and determined to develop our team in every way possible," Dallas said. "Their ability to adapt to new roles, teach the game of football and work at a championship level is second to none.&nbsp;

"They all bring something unique and special to the table and it has been fun attacking the off-season with them up to this point. I am excited to get going on the field with them in spring practice and am looking forward to building &amp; developing our team with them as we prepare for the ’24 season.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711724978908.jpeg" alt="Blue Dragon head football coach Drew Dallas celebrates with his players following a touchdown against the Butler Grizzlies Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023 at BG Products Stadium in El Dorado, KS. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)" />
 <figcaption>Blue Dragon head football coach Drew Dallas celebrates with his players following a touchdown against the Butler Grizzlies Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023 at BG Products Stadium in El Dorado, KS. (Billy Watson/Blue Dragon Sports Information)</figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of HutchCC Sports InformationWith spring drills beginning Monday for the Hutchinson Community College football team, head coach Drew Dallas has announced a reshuffling of coaching duties on his staff for the 2024 season.The reorganization was prompted with the hiring of two new assistants for the upcoming season.The new hires to the Blue Dragon staff are Matt Wallerstedt and Conner Lierz.Wallerstedt is a veteran coach at all levels of college football, including Kansas State. He will become the Blue Dragons’ new defensive coordinator and linebackers’ coach.Lierz is a familiar name to Blue Dragon football. He is a former offensive lineman who played at Hutchinson Community College in 2018 and 2019. Lierz is the new tight ends coach and assistant strength and conditioning coach“We are certainly excited about the two new additions to our staff this offseason," Dallas said. "Coach Lierz is a former player who is from the state of Kansas and has great energy and an understanding on what we are all about here at Hutch.&nbsp; Coach Wally is also another Kansas guy.&nbsp; His experience and knowledge are a welcomed addition as we try to continue to elevate our program.”The other six coaches on staff were with the Blue Dragons last season during a year the Dragons went through the regular season undefeated and won the Jayhawk Conference championship posting a 10-1 overall season.Dallas has made some changes to some of their duties as well.Dallas will continue to serve as the Blue Dragon quarterbacks’ coach. Dallas will be in his fifth season as head coach and has posted a four-year record of 38-4.Matt Martin returns for his third season with the Blue Dragons. Martin is the Dragons’ assistant head coach, wide receivers coach and co-special teams’ coordinator.Greg Cross returns for his seventh season and has been promoted to Associate Head Coach as well as his position duties with the running backs and as run-game coordinator.Tony Kohling will be in his second season as Blue Dragon offensive coordinator and offensive line coach.Andrew Krause returns for his ninth season on the Blue Dragon sideline. Krause returns to the defensive side of the ball as defensive backs coach, co-special teams coordinator and recruiting coordinator.Former Blue Dragon player Demarcus Roberson returns for his second season on staff as the Dragons’ defensive line coach and assistant strength and condition coach.Davin Hawkins is back for his second season as the safeties’ coach and is now the head of the strength and conditioning program.Taylor Martin returns as a student assistant for offensive quality control and Adonis Armstrong is back as a student assistant for defensive quality control.“This is a great group of men that are not only great coaches but guys that are professionals and determined to develop our team in every way possible," Dallas said. "Their ability to adapt to new roles, teach the game of football and work at a championship level is second to none.&nbsp;"They all bring something unique and special to the table and it has been fun attacking the off-season with them up to this point. I am excited to get going on the field with them in spring practice and am looking forward to building &amp; developing our team with them as we prepare for the ’24 season.”

Dallas announces coaching assignments for 2024

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that it has enrolled 2,762 Kansas Veterans in VA health care over the past 365 days – 39.32% more than&nbsp;it enrolled the previous year. Nationally, VA&nbsp;enrolled 401,006 Veterans in VA health care over the past 365 days – 30% more than the&nbsp;307,831 it enrolled the previous year. This is the most yearly enrollees in at least five years at VA, and nearly a 50% increase over pandemic-level enrollment in 2020.

This historic enrollment has been made possible by the PACT Act, which has allowed VA to&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/https:/news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/" target="_blank">expand VA health care</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/https:/news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/" target="_blank">benefits</a>&nbsp;to millions of Veterans. VA is also conducting the most aggressive outreach campaign in its history, including hosting over 2,600 events since the passage of the PACT Act, launching a $16+ million&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-launches-advertising-campaign-to-encourage-new-veterans-to-sign-up-for-health-care-and-benefits/#:~:text=Press%20Room-,VA%20launches%20advertising%20campaign%20to%20encourage%20new%20Veterans%20to,for%20health%20care%20and%20benefits&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20%E2%80%93%20Today%2C%20the%20Department%20of,and%20benefits%20they've%20earned." target="_blank">advertising campaign,</a>&nbsp;using&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/jonstewart/status/1765076636263944374?s=20" target="_blank">public service announcements</a>, and – for the first time ever – sending text messages to Veterans encouraging them to enroll in VA health care. VA is continuing these aggressive outreach efforts throughout 2024, with more than 550 in-person events already scheduled for this year.

Enrolling Veterans in health care is a top priority for VA and the Biden-Harris Administration because VA has proven to be the best care in America for Veterans.&nbsp;Veterans who receive VA health care have better health outcomes than non-enrolled Veterans, and VA hospitals have dramatically outperformed non-VA hospitals in&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-outperform-non-va-facilities-cms-ratings/" target="_blank">overall quality ratings</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/nationwide-patient-survey-shows-va-hospitals-outperform-non-va-hospitals/" target="_blank">patient satisfaction ratings</a>. Additionally, VA health care is often&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/copay-rates/" target="_blank">more affordable</a>&nbsp;than non-VA health care for Veterans. In total,&nbsp;VA is currently delivering more care and more benefits to more Veterans than ever before in our nation’s history, setting&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/https:/news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/" target="_blank">an all-time record for health care appointments provided in 2023</a>.

<a>“We want&nbsp;every&nbsp;eligible Veteran to enroll in VA health care for one simple reason: Veterans who come to VA are proven to have better health outcomes – and pay less – than Veterans who don’t,” said&nbsp;VA Secretary Denis McDonough.&nbsp;“That’s why we’ve spent the past year meeting Veterans where they are – hosting thousands of events, sending millions of texts, advertising on every corner, and much more – to get them to come to VA. This aggressive outreach campaign has led more Veterans to enroll in VA care than during any year in at least a decade, and we’re not slowing down now.”&nbsp;</a>

“VA is the best, most affordable care in America for Veterans, so we want all eligible Veterans to enroll today,” said&nbsp;VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, M.D. “Our clinicians know Veterans – they often are Veterans – and they know exactly how to help. Even if you don’t need this care today, you might need it tomorrow, or the next day, or 30 years from now. It’s quick and easy to apply, and once you’re in, you have access for life.”

VA recently&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/" target="_blank">expanded health care eligibility</a>&nbsp;for millions of Veterans nationwide, years earlier than called for by the PACT Act. As of March 5th,&nbsp;all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military and meet certain requirements became eligible to enroll directly in VA health care.&nbsp;This means that all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 will be eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. Additionally, Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States will also be eligible to enroll. VA also&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/all-wwii-veterans-are-now-eligible-for-no-cost-va-health-care-and-nursing-home-services/" target="_blank">recently expanded health care to all World War II Veterans</a>.

VA is able to serve these new enrollees, in part, due to last year’s record hiring in VA’s Veterans Health Administration.&nbsp;Last year, we exceeded&nbsp;our hiring goals in the Veterans Health Administration – growing at the fastest rate in 15 years and bringing in more than 61,000 new hires – to prepare for an increase in VA health care enrollment among Veterans under the PACT Act. In total, VHA now has more employees than ever before in our history, and VA’s retention efforts also led to a 20% decrease in turnover rate among VHA employees from 2022 to 2023.

Moving forward, VA will continue to aggressively reach out to Veterans to encourage them to come to VA. VA encourages all Veterans, family members, caregivers, and survivors to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/" target="_blank">learn more about VA</a>&nbsp;and apply for their world-class&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application/introduction" target="_blank">health care</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction" target="_blank">earned benefits</a>&nbsp;today.

For more information about VA care, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/" target="_blank">VA’s health care website</a>. For more information about the impact of the PACT Act, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/" target="_blank">VA’s PACT Act dashboard.</a>

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650578121737.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Department of Veterans AffairsWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that it has enrolled 2,762 Kansas Veterans in VA health care over the past 365 days – 39.32% more than&nbsp;it enrolled the previous year. Nationally, VA&nbsp;enrolled 401,006 Veterans in VA health care over the past 365 days – 30% more than the&nbsp;307,831 it enrolled the previous year. This is the most yearly enrollees in at least five years at VA, and nearly a 50% increase over pandemic-level enrollment in 2020.This historic enrollment has been made possible by the PACT Act, which has allowed VA to&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/https:/news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/" target="_blank">expand VA health care</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/https:/news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/" target="_blank">benefits</a>&nbsp;to millions of Veterans. VA is also conducting the most aggressive outreach campaign in its history, including hosting over 2,600 events since the passage of the PACT Act, launching a $16+ million&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-launches-advertising-campaign-to-encourage-new-veterans-to-sign-up-for-health-care-and-benefits/#:~:text=Press%20Room-,VA%20launches%20advertising%20campaign%20to%20encourage%20new%20Veterans%20to,for%20health%20care%20and%20benefits&amp;text=WASHINGTON%20%E2%80%93%20Today%2C%20the%20Department%20of,and%20benefits%20they've%20earned." target="_blank">advertising campaign,</a>&nbsp;using&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/jonstewart/status/1765076636263944374?s=20" target="_blank">public service announcements</a>, and – for the first time ever – sending text messages to Veterans encouraging them to enroll in VA health care. VA is continuing these aggressive outreach efforts throughout 2024, with more than 550 in-person events already scheduled for this year.Enrolling Veterans in health care is a top priority for VA and the Biden-Harris Administration because VA has proven to be the best care in America for Veterans.&nbsp;Veterans who receive VA health care have better health outcomes than non-enrolled Veterans, and VA hospitals have dramatically outperformed non-VA hospitals in&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-outperform-non-va-facilities-cms-ratings/" target="_blank">overall quality ratings</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/nationwide-patient-survey-shows-va-hospitals-outperform-non-va-hospitals/" target="_blank">patient satisfaction ratings</a>. Additionally, VA health care is often&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/copay-rates/" target="_blank">more affordable</a>&nbsp;than non-VA health care for Veterans. In total,&nbsp;VA is currently delivering more care and more benefits to more Veterans than ever before in our nation’s history, setting&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/https:/news.va.gov/press-room/va-all-time-record-care-benefits-veterans-fy-2023/" target="_blank">an all-time record for health care appointments provided in 2023</a>.<a>“We want&nbsp;every&nbsp;eligible Veteran to enroll in VA health care for one simple reason: Veterans who come to VA are proven to have better health outcomes – and pay less – than Veterans who don’t,” said&nbsp;VA Secretary Denis McDonough.&nbsp;“That’s why we’ve spent the past year meeting Veterans where they are – hosting thousands of events, sending millions of texts, advertising on every corner, and much more – to get them to come to VA. This aggressive outreach campaign has led more Veterans to enroll in VA care than during any year in at least a decade, and we’re not slowing down now.”&nbsp;</a>“VA is the best, most affordable care in America for Veterans, so we want all eligible Veterans to enroll today,” said&nbsp;VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, M.D. “Our clinicians know Veterans – they often are Veterans – and they know exactly how to help. Even if you don’t need this care today, you might need it tomorrow, or the next day, or 30 years from now. It’s quick and easy to apply, and once you’re in, you have access for life.”VA recently&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/" target="_blank">expanded health care eligibility</a>&nbsp;for millions of Veterans nationwide, years earlier than called for by the PACT Act. As of March 5th,&nbsp;all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards while serving in the military and meet certain requirements became eligible to enroll directly in VA health care.&nbsp;This means that all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 will be eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. Additionally, Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States will also be eligible to enroll. VA also&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/all-wwii-veterans-are-now-eligible-for-no-cost-va-health-care-and-nursing-home-services/" target="_blank">recently expanded health care to all World War II Veterans</a>.VA is able to serve these new enrollees, in part, due to last year’s record hiring in VA’s Veterans Health Administration.&nbsp;Last year, we exceeded&nbsp;our hiring goals in the Veterans Health Administration – growing at the fastest rate in 15 years and bringing in more than 61,000 new hires – to prepare for an increase in VA health care enrollment among Veterans under the PACT Act. In total, VHA now has more employees than ever before in our history, and VA’s retention efforts also led to a 20% decrease in turnover rate among VHA employees from 2022 to 2023.Moving forward, VA will continue to aggressively reach out to Veterans to encourage them to come to VA. VA encourages all Veterans, family members, caregivers, and survivors to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/" target="_blank">learn more about VA</a>&nbsp;and apply for their world-class&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/application/introduction" target="_blank">health care</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction" target="_blank">earned benefits</a>&nbsp;today.For more information about VA care, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/" target="_blank">VA’s health care website</a>. For more information about the impact of the PACT Act, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://department.va.gov/pactdata/" target="_blank">VA’s PACT Act dashboard.</a><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

PACT Act has resulted in more Kansans in VA health care

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fight the Stigma is holding a Rumble in the Ring event with the Reno County Boxing Academy Saturday.

"It is at Memorial Hall, 101 South Walnut," said Jaime Garcia with Fight the Stigma. "Doors open at 4 p.m. The show will start at 5 p.m. We have Sheriff Darrian Campbell, he is fighting Tom Butter, we also have Dakotah Sanders fighting Casey Waters."

Those are just two of the four Buddy Boxing bouts, then there will also be a full card of 10 boxing matches, and an intermission show with sumo wrestlers and pillow fighters.

"We have two pillow fighting matches," Garcia said. "I'm going to tell you, these are official PFC Pillow Fighting Championship pillows."

Proceeds from the event will help Fight The Stigma start programs to assist in mental health treatment in the area.

"Our very first big project is called A Clear Path," Garcia said. "We actually received a grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation. These funds will also go towards this program. We are going to partner with local home health companies, physicians, medical staff and aid people in their homes who just need a little bit of help picking up."

For tickets to Saturday's event go to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fightthestigmainc">Fight The Stigma Facebook page</a>. Tickets are $10.

<figure>
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 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Fight the Stigma is holding a Rumble in the Ring event with the Reno County Boxing Academy Saturday."It is at Memorial Hall, 101 South Walnut," said Jaime Garcia with Fight the Stigma. "Doors open at 4 p.m. The show will start at 5 p.m. We have Sheriff Darrian Campbell, he is fighting Tom Butter, we also have Dakotah Sanders fighting Casey Waters."Those are just two of the four Buddy Boxing bouts, then there will also be a full card of 10 boxing matches, and an intermission show with sumo wrestlers and pillow fighters."We have two pillow fighting matches," Garcia said. "I'm going to tell you, these are official PFC Pillow Fighting Championship pillows."Proceeds from the event will help Fight The Stigma start programs to assist in mental health treatment in the area."Our very first big project is called A Clear Path," Garcia said. "We actually received a grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation. These funds will also go towards this program. We are going to partner with local home health companies, physicians, medical staff and aid people in their homes who just need a little bit of help picking up."For tickets to Saturday's event go to the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fightthestigmainc">Fight The Stigma Facebook page</a>. Tickets are $10.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;