HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Lance Patterson with the Boys and Girls Club of Hutchinson is excited about the upcoming Adult Recess fundraiser August 2 at Shadduck Park.

"This is a great opportunity, if you want to relive your childhood a little bit," Patterson said. "We're going to play some volleyball. We're going to have some karaoke and make some friendship bracelets, just have some fun, be a kid again, explore the&nbsp;Boys and Girls Club a little bit and just, you know, have a lot of time to just enjoy spending time with your friends and hanging out and doing all that, while supporting the Boys and Girls Club in all the great things that we're doing."

This is an adult event, but you don't have to be a young adult to enjoy.

"This is for everyone," Patterson said. "As long as you're 21 and older, you can participate in this."

The reason you have to be 21 is that City Beverage is providing adult beverages for the event.

"We're excited to partner with the Young Professionals, First National Bank and City Beverage to make it happen," said Lindsey Fields with the club. "Tickets are $50. $40 if you are a Young Professional member. You can get those at <a href="http://bgchutch.com">bgchutch.com.</a>&nbsp;The event is Friday, Aug. 2 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

All proceeds from Adult Recess will benefit the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson, helping to fund programs that provide local youth with a safe and enriching environment.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720836548656.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Lance Patterson with the Boys and Girls Club of Hutchinson is excited about the upcoming Adult Recess fundraiser August 2 at Shadduck Park."This is a great opportunity, if you want to relive your childhood a little bit," Patterson said. "We're going to play some volleyball. We're going to have some karaoke and make some friendship bracelets, just have some fun, be a kid again, explore the&nbsp;Boys and Girls Club a little bit and just, you know, have a lot of time to just enjoy spending time with your friends and hanging out and doing all that, while supporting the Boys and Girls Club in all the great things that we're doing."This is an adult event, but you don't have to be a young adult to enjoy."This is for everyone," Patterson said. "As long as you're 21 and older, you can participate in this."The reason you have to be 21 is that City Beverage is providing adult beverages for the event."We're excited to partner with the Young Professionals, First National Bank and City Beverage to make it happen," said Lindsey Fields with the club. "Tickets are $50. $40 if you are a Young Professional member. You can get those at <a href="http://bgchutch.com">bgchutch.com.</a>&nbsp;The event is Friday, Aug. 2 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.All proceeds from Adult Recess will benefit the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson, helping to fund programs that provide local youth with a safe and enriching environment.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Adult Recess fundraiser coming up Aug. 2

Editor's Note: Below is a transcript of the conversation between Nick Gosnell and Tim Davies on KWBW on July 22, 2024. Davies opponent, Ron Vincent was offered the opportunity for a similar interview and declined that opportunity.

Nick Gosnell: We have candidate Tim Davies with us. He is running for the Reno County Commission for the northeastern part of the county. The seat currently held by Daniel Friesen, but Daniel has stepped aside. He is not going to be running this time around. Ron Vincent is the other candidate in this race, and he was offered an opportunity to speak, but chose to decline that opportunity this morning. And so we'll talk to Tim, and then we've got another guest at 745, but so wanted to chat with Tim Davies this morning. Good morning, sir. 

Nick Gosnell: All right. So first of all, what is the experience that you believe makes you qualified to serve on the Reno County Commission? 

Tim Davies: Well, I started my career in accounting as an auditor, okay, with Bartlett Settle and Edgeley here in Hutchinson. And I did audit Reno County and several other counties in Kansas cities and school districts. And from there, I went on to be corporate controller for Collins Industries and left there in 2005 because they moved their corporate headquarters to Texas, and in that period of time, I worked as the fiscal administrator for Reno County, where I did prepare the budget and acted as a counselor to the county commissioners. And then subsequent to that, I went to Collins Bus and worked there from 2008 until I retired in 2020. 

Nick Gosnell: Okay, so what's your top priority should you win and end up elected to the office? 

Tim Davies: To be a representative for the people of my district and the whole county. I feel like people really need to be heard and people are really sometimes struggling to make ends meet. So if they have somebody who was acting as a representative that can help them express their opinions and control the costs, it's better.

Nick Gosnell: All right. What is one thing you think the should spend less money on? 

Tim Davies: Wow. That's a tough question. There are lots of things the county could spend less money on, but I don't know that it's a matter of picking just one item. There's so many items that the cost could be controlled better if there was a little foresight and planning. 

Nick Gosnell: Now, the other side of the coin, what should the county spend more money on? These are the decisions the commissioners make because now that they have a professional administrator in place, a lot of that other day-to-day stuff that the commissioners handled back when you were helping them before they had a professional administrator isn't done that way anymore. Right? 

Tim Davies: Well, that's true. That's true. But the county commissioners are still the ultimate authority when it comes to authorizing the use of the funds.

Nick Gosnell: And so I guess that's because budgeting is all about priorities. It's not about that one thing is necessarily better or worse than the other, or one use of a dollar is better or worse than the other. It's that you have to decide as a board what the priorities are going to be.

Tim Davies: Well, the priorities for the county should be growth. Okay. And by growth, there needs to be more manufacturing. And you had a piece on this morning about an advertising campaign potentially to air on public television through the use of the economic development funds. I think last year's budget, that was 450,000. This year it's 400,000. But is it the best use of funds? I don't know that much about this project at this point because this morning was the first time I'd heard about it. But my inclination would be given that it's going to air on public TV, is it the best use of funds? 

Nick Gosnell: Right. Because although lots of folks watch public television, are the people that are going to be watching public television the ones that you want to draw with a piece like this? And that's the policy conversation they've got to have on Wednesday.

Nick Gosnell: And again, it's not that there's any right or wrong way of handling a specific thing. They could decide either way and it could be the right decision. We don't have the information yet, but the point of the matter is that having those conversations, which they do in public, that's the point of the commission. 

Tim Davies: Well, true. And there has to be a give and take, a back and forth. And there has to be a lot of study. I mean, when we had the debate, the question came up on solar. And some of the information that I had was probably not completely correct in that debate. But subsequent study has led me to believe that it could be a good thing for Reno County. But by the same token, we have to consider the consequences. That's the whole thing with a leadership position. You want to do your research to make the best decision. 

Nick Gosnell: Tim is running against Ron Vincent in the Republican primary for that seat. And again, the primary is August 6th, but you can already vote in advance at the Reno County Annex if you would like to do so. And we do have the video of the county commission forum so that you can go take a look at that if you'd like to before you go vote. Tim, you know, this is really a situation where it's tough on all governing bodies because inflation has absolutely hit every sector of the economy, including government. And so there are simple cost increases that have happened. But how do you shape a budget when you really may not know if things are going to cost the same in January as they do in December of a given year? 

Tim Davies: Well, that is difficult. Inflation really hurts everybody, not just an individual, but also city and state governments and local governments. The best way to do that, when I was the fiscal administrator, we were kind of in a period of inflation, maybe not quite as bad as what it is right now. But one of the things that we did look at and do was we forward contracted natural gas. When we set the budget, we knew what the price of the gas was. And it was at the, you know, it was at the best time to lock in on about 80 percent of the usage. Kind of wanted to do that for gasoline too, because that protects your cost. If you set a budget at so many dollars and you know that the landfill and the sheriff's department and the Department of Transportation is going to use X amount of gallons of gasoline throughout the year, and you can lock those expenditures in at the beginning of the year at maybe the best price that you're going to get, you don't know. It's always a gamble. But if you can lock those costs, you're better off. 

Nick Gosnell: Yeah. And it's really hard because those variable costs are the ones that really, really can get you at the end of the year. The county is, speaking relatively at the moment, doing okay in terms of cash balances. But the idea is always to have at least a couple of months of expenses back. How do you make a conscious effort to continue to save when those costs are continuing to rise? 

Tim Davies: Well, that's true, because currently I think the balance is about four and a half million dollars, which is approximately two and a half months, where I know that the city is running really close. Okay. But the way that you can do that is every expenditure is budgeted at the beginning of the year. But if you see that the budget is not going to cover all of the costs for all of the programs that you want to or need to have in place, then you have to make the tough decision, is there going to be something that we're not going to do to preserve those funds? 

Nick Gosnell: And that often comes in the form of long-term projects getting either put off for another year or trimmed down or whatever that might look like, because that is a whole lot easier than saying to somebody who had a budgeted expenditure, guess what? You're not going to get to do the thing that we agreed you were going to get to do if, say, you figure out in June that it's not going to work and there's a large expenditure that hasn't happened yet, to walk into a department head's office and say, yeah, you're not going to get, and this would almost never happen, but just as an example to the sheriff's office, yeah, you're not going to get your new vehicle because we don't have the money. That's going to be a lot more difficult than doing it in the budgeting process. 

Tim Davies: It's difficult, but that's what a leadership position is about, because sometimes somebody has to make the hard decision to say, I mean, it's just like if you're running your budget at your home. If you're struggling to put groceries on the table, you're not going to run out and buy a new car.

Nick Gosnell: Fair enough. Now, if you had to say just for, I'm going to give you, you have about two minutes left. This is why when you go in and vote on August 6th, you should do so, you should check the box next to my name or fill in the oval or whatever it is. What would you say? 

Tim Davies: Well, I would say that my main goal to take this job is to bring some vision to Reno County and to help the constituents of Reno County have representation. I'm an open-minded person who if I get a piece of information, I'm going to consider that piece of information and study that information and try to make the best decision that I can make. I'm not a perfect person. I never will be, but I will do what I feel is in the best interest of everybody in Reno County. Tim Davies is running for Reno County Commission for the northeastern portion of the county. He's running against Ron Vincent in the August primary on the Republican side.

Nick Gosnell: Tim, thank you so much for your time. We sure appreciate it. Thank you.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721654330866.jpeg" alt="Tim Davies" />
 <figcaption>Tim Davies</figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's Note: Below is a transcript of the conversation between Nick Gosnell and Tim Davies on KWBW on July 22, 2024. Davies opponent, Ron Vincent was offered the opportunity for a similar interview and declined that opportunity.Nick Gosnell: We have candidate Tim Davies with us. He is running for the Reno County Commission for the northeastern part of the county. The seat currently held by Daniel Friesen, but Daniel has stepped aside. He is not going to be running this time around. Ron Vincent is the other candidate in this race, and he was offered an opportunity to speak, but chose to decline that opportunity this morning. And so we'll talk to Tim, and then we've got another guest at 745, but so wanted to chat with Tim Davies this morning. Good morning, sir. Tim Davies: Good morning. Nick Gosnell: All right. So first of all, what is the experience that you believe makes you qualified to serve on the Reno County Commission? Tim Davies: Well, I started my career in accounting as an auditor, okay, with Bartlett Settle and Edgeley here in Hutchinson. And I did audit Reno County and several other counties in Kansas cities and school districts. And from there, I went on to be corporate controller for Collins Industries and left there in 2005 because they moved their corporate headquarters to Texas, and in that period of time, I worked as the fiscal administrator for Reno County, where I did prepare the budget and acted as a counselor to the county commissioners. And then subsequent to that, I went to Collins Bus and worked there from 2008 until I retired in 2020. Nick Gosnell: Okay, so what's your top priority should you win and end up elected to the office? Tim Davies: To be a representative for the people of my district and the whole county. I feel like people really need to be heard and people are really sometimes struggling to make ends meet. So if they have somebody who was acting as a representative that can help them express their opinions and control the costs, it's better.Nick Gosnell: All right. What is one thing you think the should spend less money on? Tim Davies: Wow. That's a tough question. There are lots of things the county could spend less money on, but I don't know that it's a matter of picking just one item. There's so many items that the cost could be controlled better if there was a little foresight and planning. Nick Gosnell: Now, the other side of the coin, what should the county spend more money on? These are the decisions the commissioners make because now that they have a professional administrator in place, a lot of that other day-to-day stuff that the commissioners handled back when you were helping them before they had a professional administrator isn't done that way anymore. Right? Tim Davies: Well, that's true. That's true. But the county commissioners are still the ultimate authority when it comes to authorizing the use of the funds.Nick Gosnell: And so I guess that's because budgeting is all about priorities. It's not about that one thing is necessarily better or worse than the other, or one use of a dollar is better or worse than the other. It's that you have to decide as a board what the priorities are going to be.Tim Davies: Well, the priorities for the county should be growth. Okay. And by growth, there needs to be more manufacturing. And you had a piece on this morning about an advertising campaign potentially to air on public television through the use of the economic development funds. I think last year's budget, that was 450,000. This year it's 400,000. But is it the best use of funds? I don't know that much about this project at this point because this morning was the first time I'd heard about it. But my inclination would be given that it's going to air on public TV, is it the best use of funds? Nick Gosnell: Right. Because although lots of folks watch public television, are the people that are going to be watching public television the ones that you want to draw with a piece like this? And that's the policy conversation they've got to have on Wednesday.Tim Davies: Correct. Nick Gosnell: And again, it's not that there's any right or wrong way of handling a specific thing. They could decide either way and it could be the right decision. We don't have the information yet, but the point of the matter is that having those conversations, which they do in public, that's the point of the commission. Tim Davies: Well, true. And there has to be a give and take, a back and forth. And there has to be a lot of study. I mean, when we had the debate, the question came up on solar. And some of the information that I had was probably not completely correct in that debate. But subsequent study has led me to believe that it could be a good thing for Reno County. But by the same token, we have to consider the consequences. That's the whole thing with a leadership position. You want to do your research to make the best decision. Nick Gosnell: Tim is running against Ron Vincent in the Republican primary for that seat. And again, the primary is August 6th, but you can already vote in advance at the Reno County Annex if you would like to do so. And we do have the video of the county commission forum so that you can go take a look at that if you'd like to before you go vote. Tim, you know, this is really a situation where it's tough on all governing bodies because inflation has absolutely hit every sector of the economy, including government. And so there are simple cost increases that have happened. But how do you shape a budget when you really may not know if things are going to cost the same in January as they do in December of a given year? Tim Davies: Well, that is difficult. Inflation really hurts everybody, not just an individual, but also city and state governments and local governments. The best way to do that, when I was the fiscal administrator, we were kind of in a period of inflation, maybe not quite as bad as what it is right now. But one of the things that we did look at and do was we forward contracted natural gas. When we set the budget, we knew what the price of the gas was. And it was at the, you know, it was at the best time to lock in on about 80 percent of the usage. Kind of wanted to do that for gasoline too, because that protects your cost. If you set a budget at so many dollars and you know that the landfill and the sheriff's department and the Department of Transportation is going to use X amount of gallons of gasoline throughout the year, and you can lock those expenditures in at the beginning of the year at maybe the best price that you're going to get, you don't know. It's always a gamble. But if you can lock those costs, you're better off. Nick Gosnell: Yeah. And it's really hard because those variable costs are the ones that really, really can get you at the end of the year. The county is, speaking relatively at the moment, doing okay in terms of cash balances. But the idea is always to have at least a couple of months of expenses back. How do you make a conscious effort to continue to save when those costs are continuing to rise? Tim Davies: Well, that's true, because currently I think the balance is about four and a half million dollars, which is approximately two and a half months, where I know that the city is running really close. Okay. But the way that you can do that is every expenditure is budgeted at the beginning of the year. But if you see that the budget is not going to cover all of the costs for all of the programs that you want to or need to have in place, then you have to make the tough decision, is there going to be something that we're not going to do to preserve those funds? Nick Gosnell: And that often comes in the form of long-term projects getting either put off for another year or trimmed down or whatever that might look like, because that is a whole lot easier than saying to somebody who had a budgeted expenditure, guess what? You're not going to get to do the thing that we agreed you were going to get to do if, say, you figure out in June that it's not going to work and there's a large expenditure that hasn't happened yet, to walk into a department head's office and say, yeah, you're not going to get, and this would almost never happen, but just as an example to the sheriff's office, yeah, you're not going to get your new vehicle because we don't have the money. That's going to be a lot more difficult than doing it in the budgeting process. Tim Davies: It's difficult, but that's what a leadership position is about, because sometimes somebody has to make the hard decision to say, I mean, it's just like if you're running your budget at your home. If you're struggling to put groceries on the table, you're not going to run out and buy a new car.Nick Gosnell: Fair enough. Now, if you had to say just for, I'm going to give you, you have about two minutes left. This is why when you go in and vote on August 6th, you should do so, you should check the box next to my name or fill in the oval or whatever it is. What would you say? Tim Davies: Well, I would say that my main goal to take this job is to bring some vision to Reno County and to help the constituents of Reno County have representation. I'm an open-minded person who if I get a piece of information, I'm going to consider that piece of information and study that information and try to make the best decision that I can make. I'm not a perfect person. I never will be, but I will do what I feel is in the best interest of everybody in Reno County. Tim Davies is running for Reno County Commission for the northeastern portion of the county. He's running against Ron Vincent in the August primary on the Republican side.Nick Gosnell: Tim, thank you so much for your time. We sure appreciate it. Thank you.Tim Davies: Get out and vote, everybody.<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;

Transcript: Tim Davies

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced Tuesday that – three-quarters of the way through the fiscal year – it has granted benefits to 1.1 million Veterans and their survivors, an all-time record. In total, VA has awarded $137B in benefits, including $127 billion in compensation and pension benefits, to Veterans and survivors this year.

To reach this milestone, VA has processed more than 2 million claims in 2024 – another all-time record, on pace to surpass last year’s record by more than 27%. The grant rate for these claims is 64.6% and the average overall disability rating granted to Veterans this year to-date is 70%, equating to over $20,000 per year in disability compensation.

President Biden made supporting Veterans a key pillar in his Unity Agenda for the nation, noting that we&nbsp;have a sacred obligation to care for Veterans and make sure they get the benefits they have earned. VA has been able to deliver more care and more benefits to more Veterans than ever before largely thanks to the PACT Act, which was signed into law by President Biden in August 2022 and represents the largest expansion of Veteran care and benefits in generations. Of the claims granted so far in FY2024, 655,808 were PACT Act-related.

“Our goal is to make sure every Veteran and every survivor gets the benefits they’ve earned for their service to this country,” said VA Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs. “These&nbsp;Veterans and survivors are now receiving monthly payments for the conditions that followed them home from war or took the lives of their loved ones – and there is nothing, nothing more important than that.”

Overall, VA is now delivering more care and more benefits to Veterans in a variety of ways:

• More Veterans are using VA health care: VA is on pace to deliver approximately 127 million health care appointments in 2024, surpassing last year’s all-time record of 120 million appointments. This is partly a result of VA expanding access to VA care for these Veterans and decreasing wait times by offering more night clinics, weekend clinics, and appointment slots.

• More Veterans are enrolling in VA health care: 412,867 Veterans have enrolled in VA care over the last 365 days, an increase of 27% year over year – and the most since 2017. In total, since the PACT Act was passed, more than 710,000 Veterans have enrolled in VA health care, which represents a more than 34% increase in Veterans enrolling compared to an equivalent period&nbsp;before the legislation was signed.

• More Veterans are applying for VA benefits than ever before: Thanks to the largest outreach campaign in VA history, Veterans submitted 2,433,729 claims applications in 2023 – an all-time record and 39% more than in 2022. Thus far this year, Veterans are on pace to submit even more claims – outpacing last year’s record by 2.9%.

• More Veterans report trusting VA: Veteran trust in VA has reached an all-time high of 80.4% — up from 55% when the survey began in 2016. This is based on a survey of Veterans who use a wide range of VA services, including health care, disability compensation benefits, memorial affairs, the GI Bill, home loans, and more.

• When Veterans apply for benefits, they are more likely to have their claims granted:

Whenever a Veteran applies for benefits, our goal is to work with them to gather the evidence to get to yes. Due to this approach, VA has been able to grant benefits for 64.6% of claims, including 75% of PACT Act related claims, a sharp increase from previous years.

Moving forward, VA will continue to aggressively reach out to Veterans to encourage them to come to&nbsp;VA. VA encourages all Veterans, family members, caregivers, and survivors to learn more about VA and apply for their world-class health care and earned benefits today.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">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/2022/4/1650578121737.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Department of Veterans AffairsWASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced Tuesday that – three-quarters of the way through the fiscal year – it has granted benefits to 1.1 million Veterans and their survivors, an all-time record. In total, VA has awarded $137B in benefits, including $127 billion in compensation and pension benefits, to Veterans and survivors this year.To reach this milestone, VA has processed more than 2 million claims in 2024 – another all-time record, on pace to surpass last year’s record by more than 27%. The grant rate for these claims is 64.6% and the average overall disability rating granted to Veterans this year to-date is 70%, equating to over $20,000 per year in disability compensation.President Biden made supporting Veterans a key pillar in his Unity Agenda for the nation, noting that we&nbsp;have a sacred obligation to care for Veterans and make sure they get the benefits they have earned. VA has been able to deliver more care and more benefits to more Veterans than ever before largely thanks to the PACT Act, which was signed into law by President Biden in August 2022 and represents the largest expansion of Veteran care and benefits in generations. Of the claims granted so far in FY2024, 655,808 were PACT Act-related.“Our goal is to make sure every Veteran and every survivor gets the benefits they’ve earned for their service to this country,” said VA Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs. “These&nbsp;Veterans and survivors are now receiving monthly payments for the conditions that followed them home from war or took the lives of their loved ones – and there is nothing, nothing more important than that.”Overall, VA is now delivering more care and more benefits to Veterans in a variety of ways:• More Veterans are using VA health care: VA is on pace to deliver approximately 127 million health care appointments in 2024, surpassing last year’s all-time record of 120 million appointments. This is partly a result of VA expanding access to VA care for these Veterans and decreasing wait times by offering more night clinics, weekend clinics, and appointment slots.• More Veterans are enrolling in VA health care: 412,867 Veterans have enrolled in VA care over the last 365 days, an increase of 27% year over year – and the most since 2017. In total, since the PACT Act was passed, more than 710,000 Veterans have enrolled in VA health care, which represents a more than 34% increase in Veterans enrolling compared to an equivalent period&nbsp;before the legislation was signed.• More Veterans are applying for VA benefits than ever before: Thanks to the largest outreach campaign in VA history, Veterans submitted 2,433,729 claims applications in 2023 – an all-time record and 39% more than in 2022. Thus far this year, Veterans are on pace to submit even more claims – outpacing last year’s record by 2.9%.• More Veterans report trusting VA: Veteran trust in VA has reached an all-time high of 80.4% — up from 55% when the survey began in 2016. This is based on a survey of Veterans who use a wide range of VA services, including health care, disability compensation benefits, memorial affairs, the GI Bill, home loans, and more.• When Veterans apply for benefits, they are more likely to have their claims granted:Whenever a Veteran applies for benefits, our goal is to work with them to gather the evidence to get to yes. Due to this approach, VA has been able to grant benefits for 64.6% of claims, including 75% of PACT Act related claims, a sharp increase from previous years.Moving forward, VA will continue to aggressively reach out to Veterans to encourage them to come to&nbsp;VA. VA encourages all Veterans, family members, caregivers, and survivors to learn more about VA and apply for their world-class health care and earned benefits today.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

PACT Act results in record number of VA beneficiaries

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Former Amb. Francis Rooney believes that a change in the White House could prompt changes in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

"I think if Trump wins with J.D. Vance as his V.P., they have expressed clearly the need to get some kind of solution on the table here for this thing instead of just dishing out money," Rooney said. "I think that the countries of the world, including Russia, are going to fear Trump a whole lot more than they do Biden."

Rooney believes Trump's previous record actually could be an asset here.

"He displayed some pretty decisive leadership in dealing with Israel and moving the embassy," Rooney said. "He roughed up Europe about their contributions to NATO. He's proven that he's willing to delve into these things and try to make a difference, and I know he was pretty cozy with Putin. But I think now it's going to be more of a use that relationship to find a solution."

Will Trump talk tough with Russia? Rooney thinks so.

"He can say, look, Russia, we'll put you in a box," Rooney said. "We will cut you off even more than you're cut off now. We will increase the sanctions. We'll grab all your billionaires and throw them in jail. You know, there's a lot of things that we could be doing, and we keep taking these baby steps."

From 2005 to 2008 Rooney served as the United States Ambassador to the Holy See, appointed by President George W. Bush.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721662017811.jpeg" alt="Fmr. Ambassador Francis Rooney" />
 <figcaption>Fmr. Ambassador Francis Rooney</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Former Amb. Francis Rooney believes that a change in the White House could prompt changes in the Russia-Ukraine conflict."I think if Trump wins with J.D. Vance as his V.P., they have expressed clearly the need to get some kind of solution on the table here for this thing instead of just dishing out money," Rooney said. "I think that the countries of the world, including Russia, are going to fear Trump a whole lot more than they do Biden."Rooney believes Trump's previous record actually could be an asset here."He displayed some pretty decisive leadership in dealing with Israel and moving the embassy," Rooney said. "He roughed up Europe about their contributions to NATO. He's proven that he's willing to delve into these things and try to make a difference, and I know he was pretty cozy with Putin. But I think now it's going to be more of a use that relationship to find a solution."Will Trump talk tough with Russia? Rooney thinks so."He can say, look, Russia, we'll put you in a box," Rooney said. "We will cut you off even more than you're cut off now. We will increase the sanctions. We'll grab all your billionaires and throw them in jail. You know, there's a lot of things that we could be doing, and we keep taking these baby steps."From 2005 to 2008 Rooney served as the United States Ambassador to the Holy See, appointed by President George W. Bush.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Rooney: Trump win could change Russia-Ukraine conflict

EDWARDS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30 a.m. Monday in Edwards County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Camry driven by Ronald R&nbsp;Crabb, 41, Raton, New Mexico, was eastbound on U.S. 50 five miles east of the U.S. 183 Junction.

The car traveled left of center and struck a westbound 2022 Peterbilt semi driven by Trenton C.&nbsp;Winter, 36, Mount Hope.

Crabb was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;McKillip Funeral Home. Winter was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701954184129.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>EDWARDS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 6:30 a.m. Monday in Edwards County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Camry driven by Ronald R&nbsp;Crabb, 41, Raton, New Mexico, was eastbound on U.S. 50 five miles east of the U.S. 183 Junction.The car traveled left of center and struck a westbound 2022 Peterbilt semi driven by Trenton C.&nbsp;Winter, 36, Mount Hope.Crabb was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;McKillip Funeral Home. Winter was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Man dies after car, semi crash with Kansas driver 

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;

7/23/2024 2:09 AM-Joyce	Marie Rempel-DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage&nbsp;

7/23/2024 1:52 AM-Shane	Lyn Southard-Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation&nbsp;

7/23/2024 1:27 AM-Alan	Dale Wanek-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

7/22/2024 11:10 PM-Brandi	Lynn Harrington-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Failure to Appear

7/22/2024 8:39 PM-James	Monroe Smith-Failure to Appear; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant; Flee &amp; Elude; Commits Five or More Moving Violations; Flee &amp; Elude; Reckless Driving (KSA 8-1566); Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard; Flee &amp; Elude; 2nd Offense; Reckless driving; 2nd or subsequent conviction; Agg battery; Recklessly use deadly weapon; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant; Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm in a City; Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; MVA; Failure to Report an Accident; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Failure to Appear&nbsp;

7/22/2024 4:24 PM-Jacob	Taylor Mattox-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant	

7/22/2024 3:00 PM-Richard	Lavern Ehrlich-Probation Violation&nbsp;

7/22/2024 12:40 PM-Zachary	Michael Bahruth-Direct Contempt

7/22/2024 11:16 AM-Tracy	Lynn Lamunyon-Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions; Assault; Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)	

7/22/2024 10:47 AM-Tommy	Lorrae Alexander-Probation Violation&nbsp;

7/22/2024 10:01 AM-Jennifer	Kay Coleman-Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Failure to Appear

7/22/2024 9:51 AM-Jermaine	Terrell Wiley-Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

<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;7/23/2024 2:09 AM-Joyce	Marie Rempel-DUI; 1st conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage&nbsp;7/23/2024 1:52 AM-Shane	Lyn Southard-Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation&nbsp;7/23/2024 1:27 AM-Alan	Dale Wanek-Failure to Appear&nbsp;7/22/2024 11:10 PM-Brandi	Lynn Harrington-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Failure to Appear7/22/2024 8:39 PM-James	Monroe Smith-Failure to Appear; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant; Flee &amp; Elude; Commits Five or More Moving Violations; Flee &amp; Elude; Reckless Driving (KSA 8-1566); Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard; Flee &amp; Elude; 2nd Offense; Reckless driving; 2nd or subsequent conviction; Agg battery; Recklessly use deadly weapon; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant; Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm in a City; Poss of stimulant; 1 prior conviction; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; MVA; Failure to Report an Accident; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Failure to Appear&nbsp;7/22/2024 4:24 PM-Jacob	Taylor Mattox-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant	7/22/2024 3:00 PM-Richard	Lavern Ehrlich-Probation Violation&nbsp;7/22/2024 12:40 PM-Zachary	Michael Bahruth-Direct Contempt7/22/2024 11:16 AM-Tracy	Lynn Lamunyon-Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions; Assault; Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)	7/22/2024 10:47 AM-Tommy	Lorrae Alexander-Probation Violation&nbsp;7/22/2024 10:01 AM-Jennifer	Kay Coleman-Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Failure to Appear7/22/2024 9:51 AM-Jermaine	Terrell Wiley-Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

Daily Bookings

CAPT. DAYTON GATES Hutchinson Police Department

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Monday at approximately 3:20 p.m., agents with the Department of Corrections Enforcement, Apprehension, and Investigation (EAI) Task Force located a wanted subject, James M. Smith, 36, of Hutchinson, near 11th Ave and Severance Street. Before they were able to make contact, Smith left the area in a vehicle and fled from officers with Hutchinson Police Department. Officers did not pursue Smith at that time due to Smith’s history of fleeing from law enforcement.

Smith was later located walking near 12th Ave and Milcon Street. Smith was armed with a handgun and fled from officers on foot. Kansas Highway Patrol located Smith after he got back in his vehicle and fled the area. A pursuit ensued at that time.

At approximately 3:48 p.m., Smith ran a stop sign at 4th Ave and Maple Street striking another vehicle that was occupied by one person. Smith fled on foot, and while doing so fired a shot from his handgun. It is believed that Smith was not firing the handgun at pursuing officers. Smith was taken into custody a short time later. During this incident, one citizen suffered minor injuries from the crash caused by Smith. No officers were injured.

Kansas Highway Patrol is the lead agency on the crash investigation and Hutchinson Police Department is the lead agency on the criminal investigation. Smith was arrested for 1) Felony Flee and Elude 2) Felon in Possession of a Firearm 3) Aggravated Battery 4) Felony Interference with Law Enforcement 5) Possession of Methamphetamine 6) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 7) Reckless Driving 8) Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and 9) Three Felony Warrants.

Smith is being held with no bond at this time.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">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/2024/7/1721692841949.png" alt="Smith has previous convictions for drugs and Flee or elude LEO with five or more moving violations, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Smith has previous convictions for drugs and Flee or elude LEO with five or more moving violations, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPT. DAYTON GATES Hutchinson Police DepartmentHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Monday at approximately 3:20 p.m., agents with the Department of Corrections Enforcement, Apprehension, and Investigation (EAI) Task Force located a wanted subject, James M. Smith, 36, of Hutchinson, near 11th Ave and Severance Street. Before they were able to make contact, Smith left the area in a vehicle and fled from officers with Hutchinson Police Department. Officers did not pursue Smith at that time due to Smith’s history of fleeing from law enforcement.Smith was later located walking near 12th Ave and Milcon Street. Smith was armed with a handgun and fled from officers on foot. Kansas Highway Patrol located Smith after he got back in his vehicle and fled the area. A pursuit ensued at that time.At approximately 3:48 p.m., Smith ran a stop sign at 4th Ave and Maple Street striking another vehicle that was occupied by one person. Smith fled on foot, and while doing so fired a shot from his handgun. It is believed that Smith was not firing the handgun at pursuing officers. Smith was taken into custody a short time later. During this incident, one citizen suffered minor injuries from the crash caused by Smith. No officers were injured.Kansas Highway Patrol is the lead agency on the crash investigation and Hutchinson Police Department is the lead agency on the criminal investigation. Smith was arrested for 1) Felony Flee and Elude 2) Felon in Possession of a Firearm 3) Aggravated Battery 4) Felony Interference with Law Enforcement 5) Possession of Methamphetamine 6) Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 7) Reckless Driving 8) Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and 9) Three Felony Warrants.Smith is being held with no bond at this time.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Arrest made after pursuit Monday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. has been named the Chevrolet AL Player of the Week, Major League Baseball announced on Monday.

The 24-year-old phenom picked up right where he left off prior to the All-Star break. Witt Jr. was 9 for 11 (.818) with three RBI and one home run in the three-game sweep of the Chicago White Sox to start the unofficial second half of the season.

This is the second AL Player of the Week honor for Witt Jr. this season.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691287799360.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. dives back to first base after a fly out by Michael Massey during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Royals' Bobby Witt Jr. dives back to first base after a fly out by Michael Massey during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. has been named the Chevrolet AL Player of the Week, Major League Baseball announced on Monday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bobby Witt Jr.: 9-for-11, 4 R, 1 HR, 3 RBI Gavin Lux: 5-for-9, 4 XBH, 3 RBI Your <a href="https://twitter.com/chevrolet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Chevrolet</a> AL and NL Players of the Week! <a href="https://t.co/7fbDNVf8rA">pic.twitter.com/7fbDNVf8rA</a>&mdash; MLB (@MLB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLB/status/1815488427200315419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 24-year-old phenom picked up right where he left off prior to the All-Star break. Witt Jr. was 9 for 11 (.818) with three RBI and one home run in the three-game sweep of the Chicago White Sox to start the unofficial second half of the season.This is the second AL Player of the Week honor for Witt Jr. this season.

⚾ Witt Jr. named AL Player of the Week to start second half

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter had another successful Adopt-A-Pet event on Saturday at the EAGLE Media Center.&nbsp;

Eight of the 11 dogs that were brought to the event were adopted.

"We had eight volunteers and one staff member present on Saturday that made this event a success," Michaela Schommer with the Hutchinson Animal Shelter said.

Although the event had eight dogs adopted, Schommer still says the shelter has a high population.

"The flow of incoming animals never slows down, but our rate of adoptions seems to fluctuate," Schommer said. "No matter the day or time of year shelters need constant adoptions to maintain the population flow successfully."

The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is currently participating in the Bissell Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters event through the end of July. All dogs at the shelter will have a $50 adoption fee, while all cats will have a $25 adoption fee.

"Thanks to all of those who stopped by and made this event possible," Schommer said. "Also thanks to our volunteers and EAGLE Media for hosting us."

The next Adopt-A-Pet event at EAGLE Media Center will be Saturday, August 17 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. You can find out more information about the event <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/zYrubJmzJdGN7oyY/">here</a>.

You can find more information about the Hutchinson Animal Shelter <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonanimalshelter">here</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721670949046.png" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Animal Shelter" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Animal Shelter</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Animal Shelter had another successful Adopt-A-Pet event on Saturday at the EAGLE Media Center.&nbsp;Eight of the 11 dogs that were brought to the event were adopted."We had eight volunteers and one staff member present on Saturday that made this event a success," Michaela Schommer with the Hutchinson Animal Shelter said.Although the event had eight dogs adopted, Schommer still says the shelter has a high population."The flow of incoming animals never slows down, but our rate of adoptions seems to fluctuate," Schommer said. "No matter the day or time of year shelters need constant adoptions to maintain the population flow successfully."The Hutchinson Animal Shelter is currently participating in the Bissell Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters event through the end of July. All dogs at the shelter will have a $50 adoption fee, while all cats will have a $25 adoption fee."Thanks to all of those who stopped by and made this event possible," Schommer said. "Also thanks to our volunteers and EAGLE Media for hosting us."The next Adopt-A-Pet event at EAGLE Media Center will be Saturday, August 17 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. You can find out more information about the event <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/zYrubJmzJdGN7oyY/">here</a>.You can find more information about the Hutchinson Animal Shelter <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchinsonanimalshelter">here</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Adopt-A-Pet event successful Saturday at EAGLE Media

Reno County Treasurer RENO COUNTY — The Reno County Treasurer would like to provide taxpayers with a list of 2023 real estate taxes remaining unpaid.

Please <a href="https://www.renocountyks.gov/media/Document%20Center/Departments/Treasurer's%20Office/2023%20Delinquent%20Real%20Estate%20Taxes%20by%20Name%20payoff%20good%20through%207.31.2024.pdf">check the list</a> to see if you still owe 2023 taxes on your real estate properties.

 Taxpayers have the opportunity to pay these past due 2023 taxes by 7/31/2024 and thereby avoid publication in the newspaper in August for delinquent taxes. 

 Tax payments made after 7/31/2024 will be subject to publication fees and additional interest.

You are welcome to call the Treasurer's office with questions.  620-694-2938.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629300596422.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reno County Treasurer RENO COUNTY — The Reno County Treasurer would like to provide taxpayers with a list of 2023 real estate taxes remaining unpaid. Please <a href="https://www.renocountyks.gov/media/Document%20Center/Departments/Treasurer's%20Office/2023%20Delinquent%20Real%20Estate%20Taxes%20by%20Name%20payoff%20good%20through%207.31.2024.pdf">check the list</a> to see if you still owe 2023 taxes on your real estate properties. Taxpayers have the opportunity to pay these past due 2023 taxes by 7/31/2024 and thereby avoid publication in the newspaper in August for delinquent taxes. Tax payments made after 7/31/2024 will be subject to publication fees and additional interest.You are welcome to call the Treasurer's office with questions. 620-694-2938.Richele Calvert, Treasurer<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Unpaid real estate tax list online

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson invites residents to participate in the Hutchinson and Reno County Housing Survey.

This survey is crucial for the housing assessment in the county. Your responses will help identify gaps and formulate an action plan that aligns with the community's needs. 

By sharing your thoughts, you directly contribute to shaping local housing initiatives for both current and future residents.

Click <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GG6PKVB">the link </a>to begin the short survey and make a difference in the community's housing landscape.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson invites residents to participate in the Hutchinson and Reno County Housing Survey.This survey is crucial for the housing assessment in the county. Your responses will help identify gaps and formulate an action plan that aligns with the community's needs. By sharing your thoughts, you directly contribute to shaping local housing initiatives for both current and future residents.Click <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GG6PKVB">the link </a>to begin the short survey and make a difference in the community's housing landscape.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Housing survey released

Clarification: Matt Stafford contacted Hutch Post to clarify that the event is from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday and that children receiving a backpack must be present on Saturday.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Annual Hope Reno County event is happening at the Kansas State Fairgrounds later this week.&nbsp;

"It's a free event that happens Saturday, July 27th," said Matt Stafford with Convoy of Hope. "We will open the gates, which is Gate 5 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds, and there's going to be a ton of things that we're going to be giving away. One of them is backpacks, elementary kids and middle school, high school kids. We're going to have two different backpacks and also free groceries, and there may be some other items. There's going to be some snow cones there while you're waiting in line.&nbsp;

Last year, they handed out around 1,800 snow cones and 1,800 backpacks.

"It's better to give than to receive,"&nbsp; Stafford said. "You don't really know what that means until you do it, until you're there. I encourage people that if you know someone in need, please let them know about this event.&nbsp;Our cost this year is looking to be about $20,000."

Call Stafford if you'd like to give. His phone number is (620)&nbsp;664-7177. The event, again, is Saturday, July 27 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Those children receiving backpacks must be present to receive a backpack.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721407026167.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clarification: Matt Stafford contacted Hutch Post to clarify that the event is from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday and that children receiving a backpack must be present on Saturday.NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Annual Hope Reno County event is happening at the Kansas State Fairgrounds later this week.&nbsp;"It's a free event that happens Saturday, July 27th," said Matt Stafford with Convoy of Hope. "We will open the gates, which is Gate 5 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds, and there's going to be a ton of things that we're going to be giving away. One of them is backpacks, elementary kids and middle school, high school kids. We're going to have two different backpacks and also free groceries, and there may be some other items. There's going to be some snow cones there while you're waiting in line.&nbsp;Last year, they handed out around 1,800 snow cones and 1,800 backpacks."It's better to give than to receive,"&nbsp; Stafford said. "You don't really know what that means until you do it, until you're there. I encourage people that if you know someone in need, please let them know about this event.&nbsp;Our cost this year is looking to be about $20,000."Call Stafford if you'd like to give. His phone number is (620)&nbsp;664-7177. The event, again, is Saturday, July 27 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Those children receiving backpacks must be present to receive a backpack.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Hope Reno County is Saturday

<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">Tournament Central</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcworldseries6009/streams">Livestream</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/promos/">Promo Schedule</a>

WICHITA, Kan. — The 90th annual NBC World Series begins on Thursday at Eck Stadium on the campus of Wichita State University.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson Monarchs are scheduled to play the first game of the tournament, Thursday at 6 p.m. against TPA Texas. The&nbsp; Monarchs are the defending NBC World Series champions.

POOL A Hutchinson Monarchs Seattle Cheney Studs TPA Texas Tulsa Sandlot

POOL B GPS Legends Haysville Aviators Santa Barbara Foresters Seattle Blackfins

POOL C Boulder Collegians Derby Twins Liberal Bee Jays San Diego Stars

POOL D Air Capital Flyers Hays Larks Kansas Cannons Lonestar Baseball Club

Saturday July 27th (Baseball ‘Round the Clock)

Sunday July 28th (Baseball ‘Round the Clock)

Top 3 teams in each pool will advance to single-elimination bracket play starting 7/31

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721407331249.png" alt="Photo Courtesy NBC World Series" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy NBC World Series</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/tournament-central-2024/">Tournament Central</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@nbcworldseries6009/streams">Livestream</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;|&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://nbcbaseball.com/promos/">Promo Schedule</a>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostWICHITA, Kan. — The 90th annual NBC World Series begins on Thursday at Eck Stadium on the campus of Wichita State University.&nbsp;The Hutchinson Monarchs are scheduled to play the first game of the tournament, Thursday at 6 p.m. against TPA Texas. The&nbsp; Monarchs are the defending NBC World Series champions.POOL A Hutchinson Monarchs Seattle Cheney Studs TPA Texas Tulsa SandlotPOOL B GPS Legends Haysville Aviators Santa Barbara Foresters Seattle BlackfinsPOOL C Boulder Collegians Derby Twins Liberal Bee Jays San Diego StarsPOOL D Air Capital Flyers Hays Larks Kansas Cannons Lonestar Baseball ClubPool Play ScheduleThursday July 25th<ul>
 <li>6:00pm:&nbsp;TPA Texas vs Hutchinson Monarchs</li><li>8:30pm:&nbsp;Tulsa Sandlot vs Seattle Cheney Studs</li>
 </ul>Friday July 26th&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>12pm:&nbsp;Lonestar Baseball Club vs Kansas Cannons</li><li>3 pm:&nbsp;Seattle Blackfins vs Haysville Aviators</li><li>6 pm:&nbsp;GPS Legends vs Santa Barbara Foresters</li><li>8:30 pm:&nbsp;Air Capital Flyers vs. Hays Larks</li>
 </ul>Saturday July 27th (Baseball ‘Round the Clock)<ul>
 <li>12 pm:&nbsp;Boulder Collegians vs San Diego Stars</li><li>3 pm:&nbsp;Liberal Bee Jays vs Derby Twins</li><li>6 pm:&nbsp;Seattle Cheney Studs vs TPA Texas</li><li>9 pm:&nbsp;Santa Barbara Foresters vs. Seattle Blackfins</li><li>Midnight:&nbsp;Hutchinson Monarchs vs. Tulsa Sandlot</li>
 </ul>Sunday July 28th (Baseball ‘Round the Clock)<ul>
 <li>3 am:&nbsp;GPS Legends vs. Haysville Aviators</li><li>6 am:&nbsp;Air Capital Flyers vs. Lonestar Baseball Club</li><li>9 am:&nbsp; Derby Twins vs. Boulder Collegians</li><li>Noon:&nbsp;Hays Larks vs Kansas Cannons</li><li>3 pm:&nbsp;Liberal Bee Jays vs. San Diego Stars</li><li>6 pm: Seattle Cheney Studs vs. Doc’s Bombers*&nbsp;Exhibition game against local active-duty military members in celebration of the military teams who played in the NBC National Tournament in the 1940s, 50s &amp; 60s</li>
 </ul>Monday July 29th<ul>
 <li>12 pm:&nbsp;TPA Texas vs. Tulsa Sandlot</li><li>3 pm:&nbsp;Santa Barbara Foresters vs Haysville Aviators</li><li>6 pm:&nbsp;Hutchinson Monarchs vs Seattle Cheney Studs</li><li>8:30 pm:&nbsp;Seattle Blackfins vs GPS Legends</li>
 </ul>Tuesday July 30th<ul>
 <li>12 pm: San Diego Stars vs Derby Twins</li><li>3 pm:&nbsp;Air Capital Flyers vs. Kansas Cannons</li><li>6 pm:&nbsp;Lonestar Baseball Club vs. Hays Larks</li><li>8:30 pm:&nbsp;Boulder Collegians vs. Liberal Bee Jays</li>
 </ul>Top 3 teams in each pool will advance to single-elimination bracket play starting 7/31

⚾ Monarchs open NBC World Series Thursday in Wichita

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Youth Council is hosting a Unhoused Drop Off Drive. All items will be donated to the local homeless shelter.

Please drop off any items from the list below at Avenue A Park Building from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday July 27th.

Toothpaste Toothbrush Mouthwash Tampons Socks Bottled Water Bandages Sunscreen Lip balm/chap stick Laundry pods Trash bags Shampoo and Conditioner Body wash or Soap Razors Shaving creme Baby Wipes Diapers Diaper Rash Creme Blankets Backpacks Underwear&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665839596236.png" alt="Hutch Youth Council" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Youth Council</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Youth Council is hosting a Unhoused Drop Off Drive. All items will be donated to the local homeless shelter.Please drop off any items from the list below at Avenue A Park Building from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday July 27th.Please only new, unopened items.Toothpaste Toothbrush Mouthwash Tampons Socks Bottled Water Bandages Sunscreen Lip balm/chap stick Laundry pods Trash bags Shampoo and Conditioner Body wash or Soap Razors Shaving creme Baby Wipes Diapers Diaper Rash Creme Blankets Backpacks Underwear&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Youth Council hosting drop off drive to help homeless

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Recreation Commission’s Board of Commissioners is seeking applications for an appointment to the commission. The appointment is from September 2024 through August 2028.

Applicants must reside in the City of Hutchinson, be at least 18 years of age, and complete an application, available to download on the Hutch Rec web site:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/leadership-commissioners/">https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/leadership-commissioners/</a>. Printed applications are also available at Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st, during business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Applications must be returned to Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st, by Friday, August 16, 2024.

Completed applications are public record and will be available for inspection at the HRC Administrative Office in accordance with the Kansas Open Records Act.&nbsp;

Hutch Rec’s Board of Commissioners meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m.

Questions regarding the application process or the procedures for filling the current vacancy on the Hutchinson Recreation Commission Board should be directed to Anthony Finlay, Executive Director of Hutch Rec, by phone (620-663-6179), or by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tfinlay@hutchrec.com">tfinlay@hutchrec.com</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718748509156.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>AMY CONKLING Hutch RecHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Recreation Commission’s Board of Commissioners is seeking applications for an appointment to the commission. The appointment is from September 2024 through August 2028.Applicants must reside in the City of Hutchinson, be at least 18 years of age, and complete an application, available to download on the Hutch Rec web site:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/leadership-commissioners/">https://www.hutchrec.com/about-hutch-rec/leadership-commissioners/</a>. Printed applications are also available at Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st, during business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.Applications must be returned to Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st, by Friday, August 16, 2024.Completed applications are public record and will be available for inspection at the HRC Administrative Office in accordance with the Kansas Open Records Act.&nbsp;Hutch Rec’s Board of Commissioners meets monthly on the third Wednesday of the month at 4 p.m.Questions regarding the application process or the procedures for filling the current vacancy on the Hutchinson Recreation Commission Board should be directed to Anthony Finlay, Executive Director of Hutch Rec, by phone (620-663-6179), or by email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tfinlay@hutchrec.com">tfinlay@hutchrec.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a>| <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Hutch Rec Board of Commissioners seeking applications for appointment

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners will consider on Wednesday whether or not to work with a television producer to promote Reno County.

According to agenda documents, Chairman Randy Parks and County Administrator Randy Partington talked with Viewpoint two weeks ago. 

The company chooses specific industries that they highlight to produce a short video that will be shown across the country or a specific region on public television. Chairman Parks and Randy Partington will meet with the chamber regarding the possibility of this project to have further thoughts on this project prior to this commission meeting.

Funding for the viewpoint project would be from the economic development incentives fund as a piece of marketing that was mentioned at the Mayors of Reno County meeting earlier this year. The Viewpoint website is <a href="https://www.viewpointproject.com/">https://www.viewpointproject.com/</a>. This item is meant for discussion and possible direction from the full governing body.

Below is information sent to Reno County from Viewpoint.

Viewpoint is uniquely designed as educational content for Public Television distribution in all 50 states.

The series is above all else about education- education that informs viewers on the very latest topics and trends impacting the world. As part of cross promoting the series, further educational commercial segments will air on the major networks like ,CNBC, CNN, Learning Channel and Bloomberg.

The Board of County Commissioners meets Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the Veterans Room at the Reno County Courthouse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716032579635.jpeg" alt="Reno County Commission-Photo by Sandra Milburn" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Commission-Photo by Sandra Milburn</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners will consider on Wednesday whether or not to work with a television producer to promote Reno County.According to agenda documents, Chairman Randy Parks and County Administrator Randy Partington talked with Viewpoint two weeks ago. The company chooses specific industries that they highlight to produce a short video that will be shown across the country or a specific region on public television. Chairman Parks and Randy Partington will meet with the chamber regarding the possibility of this project to have further thoughts on this project prior to this commission meeting.Funding for the viewpoint project would be from the economic development incentives fund as a piece of marketing that was mentioned at the Mayors of Reno County meeting earlier this year. The Viewpoint website is <a href="https://www.viewpointproject.com/">https://www.viewpointproject.com/</a>. This item is meant for discussion and possible direction from the full governing body. Below is information sent to Reno County from Viewpoint.Viewpoint is uniquely designed as educational content for Public Television distribution in all 50 states.The series is above all else about education- education that informs viewers on the very latest topics and trends impacting the world. As part of cross promoting the series, further educational commercial segments will air on the major networks like ,CNBC, CNN, Learning Channel and Bloomberg.The Board of County Commissioners meets Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the Veterans Room at the Reno County Courthouse.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

County commission to consider TV project Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Post has obtained video of both candidate forums hosted by the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. 

Those videos are below. Watch them before voting in advance at the Reno County Courthouse during regular business hours between now and Aug. 5, or voting on election day, Aug. 6.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721477617398.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Post has obtained video of both candidate forums hosted by the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. Those videos are below. Watch them before voting in advance at the Reno County Courthouse during regular business hours between now and Aug. 5, or voting on election day, Aug. 6.This is the state legislative forum.<div><iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LmPq_Eh2P4A" title="Hutch Chamber State Legislative Candidate Forum 7 11 2024 720p" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>This is the county commission forum.<div><iframe width="1280" height="720" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XfkOATV0nwA" title="Chamber Commissioner Forum 7 16 2024 720p" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

🎥 VIDEO: Watch candidate forums

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The regularly scheduled Hutchinson Planning Commission meeting for Tuesday, July 23, 2024 has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next scheduled meeting will be held Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall.

If you have any questions, you may contact the Planning Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The regularly scheduled Hutchinson Planning Commission meeting for Tuesday, July 23, 2024 has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.The next scheduled meeting will be held Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall.If you have any questions, you may contact the Planning Department.<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;

Planning Commission cancels Tuesday meeting

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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

7/22/2024 2:44 AM-Trenton	Ray Kruse-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

7/22/2024 2:31 AM-Tiffany	Lynn Green-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000

7/21/2024 7:44 PM-Michael	Dean Stewart-Direct Contempt

7/21/2024 6:51 PM-Howard	Thomas Benbrook Jr.-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

7/21/2024 11:27 AM-Kimberly	Kay Byers-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

7/21/2024 10:26 AM-Christian	Armando Contreras-Munoz-Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999; Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant

<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; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;7/22/2024 2:44 AM-Trenton	Ray Kruse-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body7/22/2024 2:31 AM-Tiffany	Lynn Green-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,0007/21/2024 7:44 PM-Michael	Dean Stewart-Direct Contempt7/21/2024 6:51 PM-Howard	Thomas Benbrook Jr.-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)7/21/2024 11:27 AM-Kimberly	Kay Byers-Failure to Appear&nbsp;7/21/2024 10:26 AM-Christian	Armando Contreras-Munoz-Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999; Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kevin Thomas Jr. claimed the title in the inaugural USAC Silver Crown Salt City 100 on Saturday evening at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

Thomas Jr. entered the night with five runner-up finishes, but no titles. The Cullman, Alabama native was able to secure the championship in his 22nd career start in the USAC Silver Crown Champ Car Series.

He claimed the pole spot following a 21.090 qualifying session, the fastest lap ever recorded at the fairgrounds.

Thomas Jr. and C.J. Leary had the lead from the starting line and held it for most of the race, as the two longtime friends went back and forth. After Leary had taken the lead over on the 69th lap, the two continued to change leads after a restart with 19 laps to go.

Leary saw his night come to a close early after flipping his No. 6 car on the second turn, causing the race to stop.&nbsp;

Thomas Jr. held the lead for the final 17 laps, crossing the finish line ahead of Logan Seavey.&nbsp;

Liberal native Steven Richardson claimed the IMCA Sprint Car feature title. Dodge City native Justin Lampe won the IMCA Northern Sport Mod feature.&nbsp;

The next event with Salt City Racing will take place on Saturday, August 3.

A Feature 1 (20 Laps): 1. 0-Steven Richardson[2]; 2. 911-Ty Williams[1]; 3. 81-Jon Freeman[4]; 4. 21X-Taylor Velasquez[16]; 5. 17X-Jake Martens[3]; 6. 51-Jeremy Campbell[8]; 7. 20-Jeremy Huish[17]; 8. 1H-Henry Chambers[5]; 9. 72-Ray Seemann[15]; 10. 19-Chad Salem[11]; 11. 22-Justin Chaffin[12]; 12. 97-Brian Herbert[6]; 13. 21K-TJ Kleyman[10]; 14. 8X-Charlee Chaffin[13]; 15. (DNF) 112-Brayton Dewell[9]; 16. (DNF) 15-Jack Potter[7]; 17. (DNF) 5-Sandy Rushing[14]

A Feature 1 (15 Laps): 1. 02-Justin Lampe[1]; 2. 20-Warren Huffman[3]; 3. 22B-Dalton Bell[5]; 4. 18-Kyle Wiens[2]; 5. 64-Jimmy Brozek[6]; 6. 01-Dustin Lampe[8]; 7. 18D-Dallas Chambers[4]; 8. 97-Shawn Ward[7]; 9. 53M-Marvin Ward[9]

Heat 1 (6 Laps): 1. 20-Warren Huffman[3]; 2. 02-Justin Lampe[1]; 3. 22B-Dalton Bell[5]; 4. 18-Kyle Wiens[6]; 5. 18D-Dallas Chambers[2]; 6. 64-Jimmy Brozek[4]; 7. 97-Shawn Ward[7]; 8. 53M-Marvin Ward[9]; 9. (DNF) 01-Dustin Lampe[8]

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721537617898.jpeg" alt="Kevin Thomas Jr. celebrates his first-ever USAC Silver Crown win on Saturday, July 20 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (Photo Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Thomas Jr. celebrates his first-ever USAC Silver Crown win on Saturday, July 20 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (Photo Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kevin Thomas Jr. claimed the title in the inaugural USAC Silver Crown Salt City 100 on Saturday evening at the Kansas State Fairgrounds.Thomas Jr. entered the night with five runner-up finishes, but no titles. The Cullman, Alabama native was able to secure the championship in his 22nd career start in the USAC Silver Crown Champ Car Series.He claimed the pole spot following a 21.090 qualifying session, the fastest lap ever recorded at the fairgrounds.Thomas Jr. and C.J. Leary had the lead from the starting line and held it for most of the race, as the two longtime friends went back and forth. After Leary had taken the lead over on the 69th lap, the two continued to change leads after a restart with 19 laps to go.Leary saw his night come to a close early after flipping his No. 6 car on the second turn, causing the race to stop.&nbsp;Thomas Jr. held the lead for the final 17 laps, crossing the finish line ahead of Logan Seavey.&nbsp;Liberal native Steven Richardson claimed the IMCA Sprint Car feature title. Dodge City native Justin Lampe won the IMCA Northern Sport Mod feature.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721537792181.jpeg" alt="Liberal native Steven Richardson celebrates after winning the IMCA Sprint Car feature on Saturday, July 20 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (Photo Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Liberal native Steven Richardson celebrates after winning the IMCA Sprint Car feature on Saturday, July 20 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (Photo Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721537730092.jpeg" alt="Dodge City native Justin Lampe celebrates after winning the IMCA Northern Sport Mod feature on Saturday, July 20 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (Photo Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Dodge City native Justin Lampe celebrates after winning the IMCA Northern Sport Mod feature on Saturday, July 20 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (Photo Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>The next event with Salt City Racing will take place on Saturday, August 3.<h2>IMCA RACESAVER SPRINT CAR</h2>A Feature 1 (20 Laps): 1. 0-Steven Richardson[2]; 2. 911-Ty Williams[1]; 3. 81-Jon Freeman[4]; 4. 21X-Taylor Velasquez[16]; 5. 17X-Jake Martens[3]; 6. 51-Jeremy Campbell[8]; 7. 20-Jeremy Huish[17]; 8. 1H-Henry Chambers[5]; 9. 72-Ray Seemann[15]; 10. 19-Chad Salem[11]; 11. 22-Justin Chaffin[12]; 12. 97-Brian Herbert[6]; 13. 21K-TJ Kleyman[10]; 14. 8X-Charlee Chaffin[13]; 15. (DNF) 112-Brayton Dewell[9]; 16. (DNF) 15-Jack Potter[7]; 17. (DNF) 5-Sandy Rushing[14]<h2>IMCA NORTHERN SPORTMOD</h2>A Feature 1 (15 Laps): 1. 02-Justin Lampe[1]; 2. 20-Warren Huffman[3]; 3. 22B-Dalton Bell[5]; 4. 18-Kyle Wiens[2]; 5. 64-Jimmy Brozek[6]; 6. 01-Dustin Lampe[8]; 7. 18D-Dallas Chambers[4]; 8. 97-Shawn Ward[7]; 9. 53M-Marvin Ward[9]Heat 1 (6 Laps): 1. 20-Warren Huffman[3]; 2. 02-Justin Lampe[1]; 3. 22B-Dalton Bell[5]; 4. 18-Kyle Wiens[6]; 5. 18D-Dallas Chambers[2]; 6. 64-Jimmy Brozek[4]; 7. 97-Shawn Ward[7]; 8. 53M-Marvin Ward[9]; 9. (DNF) 01-Dustin Lampe[8]

Kevin Thomas Jr. claims inaugural USAC Silver Crown Salt City 100 title

SHERIDAN WIMMER <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com/articles/2024/07/01/3-reasons-ranchers-brand-their-cattle">Kansas Living Magazine, a publication of Kansas Farm Bureau</a>

KINGMAN COUNTY — Young cowboys sit on top of a corral fence, asking their dads when it’s their turn to rope. They’re excited but know to stay out of the way until they’re given the OK on the Elpers ranch in Kingman County.

They’re getting a good view of more experienced cowboys as they separate cows and calves to their respective pens – preventative care through the cattle chute for the moms and prepping for branding for the calves.

Cattle branding began long before cowboys integrated it on ranches. According to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, branding began with the Egyptians, who branded oxen and other livestock around 2700 B.C.&nbsp;

Today, it’s a tradition on ranches across America that helps in livestock management. For the Elpers family, the practice of branding their cattle has happened since the 1980s. There are several reasons for branding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721224534995.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERIDAN WIMMER <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com/articles/2024/07/01/3-reasons-ranchers-brand-their-cattle">Kansas Living Magazine, a publication of Kansas Farm Bureau</a>KINGMAN COUNTY — Young cowboys sit on top of a corral fence, asking their dads when it’s their turn to rope. They’re excited but know to stay out of the way until they’re given the OK on the Elpers ranch in Kingman County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721224606921.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>They’re getting a good view of more experienced cowboys as they separate cows and calves to their respective pens – preventative care through the cattle chute for the moms and prepping for branding for the calves.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721224666553.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>Cattle branding began long before cowboys integrated it on ranches. According to the Washington State Department of Agriculture, branding began with the Egyptians, who branded oxen and other livestock around 2700 B.C.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721224714200.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>Today, it’s a tradition on ranches across America that helps in livestock management. For the Elpers family, the practice of branding their cattle has happened since the 1980s. There are several reasons for branding.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721224761551.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>1. Identification and OwnershipEach ranch brand is unique to each operation and is registered with the Kansas Department of Agriculture. This is important when managing large herds across large areas of land.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721224794551.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>2. Theft PreventionYes, people steal cattle. Cattle rustling is a crime, and the brand helps identify the cattle when there’s instances of theft. Here’s a “fun” fact: In the Wild West of the 1800s, rustling was a hanging offense. These days, the crime can land you in jail for up to five years in Kansas. It’s even longer in Texas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721225117691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>3. Herd Management and Record KeepingBranding also helps the rancher maintain accurate and up-to-date records of the animal. This is essential for keeping accurate records of each cow's health history, vaccinations, breeding status and age. By maintaining precise records, ranchers can make informed decisions about breeding programs, medical treatments and overall herd management strategies. This systematic approach helps improve the productivity and health of the herd.There are several methods of branding, including hot iron, freeze branding or tattooing. Many ranchers, like the Elpers, utilize the hot-iron method to ensure high visibility and permanence.“For our operation, we use hot irons,” Lori Elpers says. “Calves have thick hides so they don’t feel it much, but we always ensure we are being humane to the calves by making the process fast and is performed by skilled ranchers to minimize stress.”CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;