HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Housing Commission has canceled its scheduled meeting for Wednesday due to a lack of staff.

The next scheduled meeting is June 22 at 3:30 p.m.

___________________________________________


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission will hear a progress report on the city’s CDBG Housing grant at its meeting on Wednesday.

According to the meeting agenda, the grant is nearing completion. So far eight homes have been completed with three more slated to begin work shortly. These final three homes will complete the work of the grant. 

The grant was originally scheduled to be completed in March 2022, with the City receiving an extension until June to complete the grant. Due to ongoing supply chain issues, the City is requesting another 3-month extension with expected completion of the grant in September 2022. This extension request will be on the City Council’s June 7 agenda.

Also, staff says the Kansas Department of Commerce has announced proposed changes to the 2023 CDBG program. The Housing category is proposed to be moved from an annual competition round to an open round with applications open from early January, 2023 – November 1, 2023. This proposed change will allow staff to complete the current grant and also complete the pre-application activities for a grant application in 2023. 

The Hutchinson Housing Commission meets Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. at the City Council Chambers Workroom at 125 East Avenue B.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650052445971.jpeg" alt="City hall.jpg" />
 <figcaption>City hall.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Housing Commission has canceled its scheduled meeting for Wednesday due to a lack of staff.The next scheduled meeting is June 22 at 3:30 p.m.___________________________________________
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson Housing Commission will hear a progress report on the city’s CDBG Housing grant at its meeting on Wednesday.According to the meeting agenda, the grant is nearing completion. So far eight homes have been completed with three more slated to begin work shortly. These final three homes will complete the work of the grant. The grant was originally scheduled to be completed in March 2022, with the City receiving an extension until June to complete the grant. Due to ongoing supply chain issues, the City is requesting another 3-month extension with expected completion of the grant in September 2022. This extension request will be on the City Council’s June 7 agenda.Also, staff says the Kansas Department of Commerce has announced proposed changes to the 2023 CDBG program. The Housing category is proposed to be moved from an annual competition round to an open round with applications open from early January, 2023 – November 1, 2023. This proposed change will allow staff to complete the current grant and also complete the pre-application activities for a grant application in 2023. The Hutchinson Housing Commission meets Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. at the City Council Chambers Workroom at 125 East Avenue B.

UPDATE: Housing Commission meeting canceled

NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council is still entertaining ideas of how to spend ARPA COVID relief funds. The city is getting just over $154,000 in funding

During a recent work session, the council looked over ideas presented to it as well as public input during the meeting. According to City Clerk April Beshears, most are wanting to do something that would benefit older youth in the community, although no specifics were given.&nbsp;

Other ideas include an expanded splash pad, expansion of the city park and even providing weather radios for the entire community.

Beshears says they will continue to discuss the ideas in the coming weeks before taking action in a regular meeting.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597851283659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — The Nickerson City Council is still entertaining ideas of how to spend ARPA COVID relief funds. The city is getting just over $154,000 in fundingDuring a recent work session, the council looked over ideas presented to it as well as public input during the meeting. According to City Clerk April Beshears, most are wanting to do something that would benefit older youth in the community, although no specifics were given.&nbsp;Other ideas include an expanded splash pad, expansion of the city park and even providing weather radios for the entire community.Beshears says they will continue to discuss the ideas in the coming weeks before taking action in a regular meeting.<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.

Nickerson discussing how to spend COVID funds


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Another opponent has filed in the Republican primary for the House District 101 race to oppose Pretty Prairie incumbent Joe Seiwert.

According to the <a href="https://kssos.org/elections/elections_upcoming_candidate.aspx">Kansas Secretary of State's website</a>, former Goddard mayor Jamey Blubaugh has filed for the seat. He was the mayor prior to fellow candidate Hunter Larkin.

Both men have resigned the Goddard mayor's position, <a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/local/crime/article250613964.html">Blubaugh following allegations of counterfeiting 2019 Zoobilee tickets</a> and Larkin earlier this month after a <a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article261376427.html">Wichita Eagle columnist accused him of improper relationships with city vendors regarding contributions to his statehouse campaign</a>.

Seiwert has faced Blubaugh and won before in 2012. That also was a three-way primary. Seiwert has served since 2008.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629113022641.jpeg" alt="Kansas Statehouse" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Statehouse</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Another opponent has filed in the Republican primary for the House District 101 race to oppose Pretty Prairie incumbent Joe Seiwert.According to the <a href="https://kssos.org/elections/elections_upcoming_candidate.aspx">Kansas Secretary of State's website</a>, former Goddard mayor Jamey Blubaugh has filed for the seat. He was the mayor prior to fellow candidate Hunter Larkin. Both men have resigned the Goddard mayor's position, <a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/local/crime/article250613964.html">Blubaugh following allegations of counterfeiting 2019 Zoobilee tickets</a> and Larkin earlier this month after a <a href="https://www.kansas.com/opinion/opn-columns-blogs/dion-lefler/article261376427.html">Wichita Eagle columnist accused him of improper relationships with city vendors regarding contributions to his statehouse campaign</a>.Seiwert has faced Blubaugh and won before in 2012. That also was a three-way primary. Seiwert has served since 2008.

Seiwert now with two former Goddard mayors as opponents

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department announced that six employees were sworn into the department during a ceremony held May 20th.

Added to the police force were Officers Kollin Goering, Matthew Hickman, Antonio Aguilera Jr, and Jarod Gilmore.

Also sworn in to the department were Accreditation Manager Michelle Patton and Records Technician Karla Savard.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653405706376.jpeg" alt="HPD new for 5-24-22.jpg" />
 <figcaption>HPD new for 5-24-22.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department announced that six employees were sworn into the department during a ceremony held May 20th.Added to the police force were Officers Kollin Goering, Matthew Hickman, Antonio Aguilera Jr, and Jarod Gilmore.Also sworn in to the department were Accreditation Manager Michelle Patton and Records Technician Karla Savard.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutchinson Police Department welcomes new officers and staff

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education agreed to get a commercial appraisal regarding the potential disposition of Avenue A School, as the Boys and Girls Club has expressed interest in buying the property.

"What do we owe on that building?" asked Superintendent Mike Folks. "I've included our bonded indebtedness and I've got to give Sheila Meggers credit for being able to extrapolate or disseminate what part of the bond issue in 2006 went towards that building. Because, when we pay a bond payment, it's not broken out by building."

That amount is $980,000, but that's going to go down.

"Our bonds are to be paid off in 2027," Folks said. "As Sheila pointed out to me today, we'll make a payment and that $980,000 is going to go down a big chunk in one year, because we're only five years away from having that completely paid off."

The commercial appraiser Folks spoke with said they can't get to the work until November and said they could probably do it for $4000, so Folks is going to see if anyone else can do it sooner, but the board approved a not to exceed amount of $4000 for the work and it will be resubmitted if a different vendor can do it and it costs more than that. 

Board members Lance Patterson and Laura Corey left the room for the vote, due to their roles related to Boys and Girls Club. The vote was 5-0 among the other members present. The building currently houses the alternative school and is used by the Boys and Girls Club.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653404815622.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education agreed to get a commercial appraisal regarding the potential disposition of Avenue A School, as the Boys and Girls Club has expressed interest in buying the property."What do we owe on that building?" asked Superintendent Mike Folks. "I've included our bonded indebtedness and I've got to give Sheila Meggers credit for being able to extrapolate or disseminate what part of the bond issue in 2006 went towards that building. Because, when we pay a bond payment, it's not broken out by building."That amount is $980,000, but that's going to go down."Our bonds are to be paid off in 2027," Folks said. "As Sheila pointed out to me today, we'll make a payment and that $980,000 is going to go down a big chunk in one year, because we're only five years away from having that completely paid off."The commercial appraiser Folks spoke with said they can't get to the work until November and said they could probably do it for $4000, so Folks is going to see if anyone else can do it sooner, but the board approved a not to exceed amount of $4000 for the work and it will be resubmitted if a different vendor can do it and it costs more than that. Board members Lance Patterson and Laura Corey left the room for the vote, due to their roles related to Boys and Girls Club. The vote was 5-0 among the other members present. The building currently houses the alternative school and is used by the Boys and Girls Club.

USD 308 board approves appraising Avenue A school

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. John Walker with Central Christian School in Hutchinson says they are through phase one and into phase two of their FORWARD capital campaign. Phase one was paying off the school's previous debt.

"The debt was $464,000," Walker said. "That has been taken care of. We've got about $140,000 that we've fundraised for the classroom addition project. Our goal for that is about $700,000. As it relates to the parking lot, we're seeking to fundraise a million dollars for that and we have just over $230,000 for that."

The classrooms they want to finish are already built.

"In the late 1990s, a building addition project began at Central Christian School," Walker said. "Because of various aspects within that time, the project ceased. We currently have, basically a shell of four classrooms, a beautiful addition that we cannot use, because it's not finished. We don't have the electrical in there, we don't have the HVAC in there, we don't have the lighting in there, we are still needing that. We've got basically the roof over the head, the walls built up. We have four classrooms that are ready to be used. That's why we are working on fundraising the funds needed to finish that classroom project."

They also want to get the parking lot paved.

"When it's rainy out, we like to call it the Central lakes, that are out there in the parking lot," Walker said. "We would really like to have that parking lot paved. I think it would just add a lot to our campus and beautify our campus and make that a better experience, not only for our parents and our students and our faculty and staff, but also our guests."

In addition, they want to add $1 million to the school's endowment to allow for more scholarships. Walker said they'd also be able to expand their enrollment considerably if the new classrooms were finished, right now they are around 170 to 190 in a typical year and he thinks they could get up to 250 with the additional space.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620829995364.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Dr. John Walker with Central Christian School in Hutchinson says they are through phase one and into phase two of their FORWARD capital campaign. Phase one was paying off the school's previous debt."The debt was $464,000," Walker said. "That has been taken care of. We've got about $140,000 that we've fundraised for the classroom addition project. Our goal for that is about $700,000. As it relates to the parking lot, we're seeking to fundraise a million dollars for that and we have just over $230,000 for that."The classrooms they want to finish are already built."In the late 1990s, a building addition project began at Central Christian School," Walker said. "Because of various aspects within that time, the project ceased. We currently have, basically a shell of four classrooms, a beautiful addition that we cannot use, because it's not finished. We don't have the electrical in there, we don't have the HVAC in there, we don't have the lighting in there, we are still needing that. We've got basically the roof over the head, the walls built up. We have four classrooms that are ready to be used. That's why we are working on fundraising the funds needed to finish that classroom project."They also want to get the parking lot paved."When it's rainy out, we like to call it the Central lakes, that are out there in the parking lot," Walker said. "We would really like to have that parking lot paved. I think it would just add a lot to our campus and beautify our campus and make that a better experience, not only for our parents and our students and our faculty and staff, but also our guests."In addition, they want to add $1 million to the school's endowment to allow for more scholarships. Walker said they'd also be able to expand their enrollment considerably if the new classrooms were finished, right now they are around 170 to 190 in a typical year and he thinks they could get up to 250 with the additional space.

Capital campaign for Central Christian School now in phase two

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The baby formula situation locally is not as dire as some parts of the country, according to Reno County Health Department WIC coordinator Heather Peterson.

"Locally, what I'm hearing families say is that they are kind of having to piecemeal their formula options," Peterson said. "It may mean that they are going to multiple stores in order to find the number of cans that they qualify for on their WIC benefit. Several families are traveling easily outside of town and definitely out of county. Some are going into McPherson and into Salina, down into Wichita in order to find the formula that they need."

For those with special dietary needs, it is a struggle right now.

"With the special formulas, they are having to drive quite a distance in order to find those formulas," Peterson said. "The standard formulas like Similac Advanced are now really pretty commonly available on the shelves and we are seeing a lot of families that are switching back to that product, simply because of its availability. Here again, the babies have outgrown that sensitivity and they're able to tolerate that standard formula well."

WIC has continued to leave its formula access much less restrictive in light of the supply issue.

"The good news is the vast majority of formulas are available," Peterson said. "It might be in just smaller quantities. Now, we are allowing formulas from other makers. The State of Kansas has a contract with Similac. Now, we are able to offer Enfamil, we're able to offer the Gerber line of products. Even the Parent's Choice, which would be the Walmart brand or the Comforts, which is the Dillons brand. We can even do the Up and Up and the Tippy Toes, which are Target brands, and so, some families are going in and getting their formulas at some of the Target stores."

Peterson also said she's seeing pregnant women give a little additional effort to attempting to breastfeed and those who were only using formula part-time now breastfeeding full-time in light of the shortages.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653398096089.jpeg" alt="KS-WIC.jpg" />
 <figcaption>KS-WIC.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The baby formula situation locally is not as dire as some parts of the country, according to Reno County Health Department WIC coordinator Heather Peterson."Locally, what I'm hearing families say is that they are kind of having to piecemeal their formula options," Peterson said. "It may mean that they are going to multiple stores in order to find the number of cans that they qualify for on their WIC benefit. Several families are traveling easily outside of town and definitely out of county. Some are going into McPherson and into Salina, down into Wichita in order to find the formula that they need."For those with special dietary needs, it is a struggle right now."With the special formulas, they are having to drive quite a distance in order to find those formulas," Peterson said. "The standard formulas like Similac Advanced are now really pretty commonly available on the shelves and we are seeing a lot of families that are switching back to that product, simply because of its availability. Here again, the babies have outgrown that sensitivity and they're able to tolerate that standard formula well."WIC has continued to leave its formula access much less restrictive in light of the supply issue."The good news is the vast majority of formulas are available," Peterson said. "It might be in just smaller quantities. Now, we are allowing formulas from other makers. The State of Kansas has a contract with Similac. Now, we are able to offer Enfamil, we're able to offer the Gerber line of products. Even the Parent's Choice, which would be the Walmart brand or the Comforts, which is the Dillons brand. We can even do the Up and Up and the Tippy Toes, which are Target brands, and so, some families are going in and getting their formulas at some of the Target stores."Peterson also said she's seeing pregnant women give a little additional effort to attempting to breastfeed and those who were only using formula part-time now breastfeeding full-time in light of the shortages.

WIC: Formula situation more an inconvenience than a crisis

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioner Daniel Friesen says the short term budget situation is good for the county, but the long term is where he has some concerns.

"I don't see it being a short term challenge or a challenge in this year's budget," Friesen said. "I see it as one that's going to kind of show up in latter years, two to five years down the road. As inflation and other pressures hit the consumer, I think we'll see some sort of natural change downward in the economy. That takes a while to ripple through to the county, or just any government revenue."

It helps that as property values rise, so also do property taxes.

"The challenge, this year, is to plan for the future and not take advantage of the fact that we probably will be looking at a fairly positive revenue situation in the county," Friesen said. "It's very similar at the state level. My goal would be to continue to prepare now. That's just good tax policy, anyway."

Friesen sees the economic downturn on the horizon as eventually having a negative effect in those out years.

"Eventually, we're going to get a higher rate of delinquencies and failure to pay," Friesen said. "It will catch up eventually, if there isn't some better balancing that occurs naturally in the economy. Hopefully, the other commissioners agree that, while this is a great time for tax revenue, it's not a great time for many consumers and we ought to look to reduce our tax rates where we can."

This is the last budget that will be dealt with by a three person commission. The commission will expand to five members as of the beginning of 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628158712566.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Commissioner Daniel Friesen says the short term budget situation is good for the county, but the long term is where he has some concerns."I don't see it being a short term challenge or a challenge in this year's budget," Friesen said. "I see it as one that's going to kind of show up in latter years, two to five years down the road. As inflation and other pressures hit the consumer, I think we'll see some sort of natural change downward in the economy. That takes a while to ripple through to the county, or just any government revenue."It helps that as property values rise, so also do property taxes."The challenge, this year, is to plan for the future and not take advantage of the fact that we probably will be looking at a fairly positive revenue situation in the county," Friesen said. "It's very similar at the state level. My goal would be to continue to prepare now. That's just good tax policy, anyway."Friesen sees the economic downturn on the horizon as eventually having a negative effect in those out years."Eventually, we're going to get a higher rate of delinquencies and failure to pay," Friesen said. "It will catch up eventually, if there isn't some better balancing that occurs naturally in the economy. Hopefully, the other commissioners agree that, while this is a great time for tax revenue, it's not a great time for many consumers and we ought to look to reduce our tax rates where we can."This is the last budget that will be dealt with by a three person commission. The commission will expand to five members as of the beginning of 2023.

Friesen: Continue to prepare in case of economic downturn

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will provide two free summer programs to Cosmosphere’s Hall of Space Museum.

Blue Star Museums, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, offers free admission to the Hall of Space for active duty military personnel and their families. The program began on Armed Forces Day, and continues through Labor Day. Adults with military ID — both veterans and active duty — will also receive year-round discounts on all Cosmosphere attractions.

Also this summer, Sunflower Summer provides school-aged kids and up to two accompanying adults access to Cosmosphere’s Hall of Space Museum at no charge between May 28 and Aug. 14. Students ages 4-18 and up to two adults per student can receive free admission through the Sunflower Summer app.

“We had a blast welcoming thousands more visitors to the Cosmosphere from across Kansas during Sunflower Summer last year,” Cosmosphere president and CEO Jim Remar said. “We can’t wait to see even more families this year.”

Sunflower Summer is a program of the Kansas State Department of Education. To get started, parents and guardians need to download the Sunflower Summer app free from either Google Play (Android) or Apple (iOS) app stores.&nbsp;

As an added “thank you,” Sunflower Summer guests receive 10% off their purchase in Cosmosphere’s gift store (autographed items not included).

Tickets to Cosmosphere’s other venues can be purchased separately at the Cosmosphere Box Office or online at <a href="http://cosmo.org">cosmo.org</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584388004236.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will provide two free summer programs to Cosmosphere’s Hall of Space Museum.Blue Star Museums, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families, offers free admission to the Hall of Space for active duty military personnel and their families. The program began on Armed Forces Day, and continues through Labor Day. Adults with military ID — both veterans and active duty — will also receive year-round discounts on all Cosmosphere attractions.Also this summer, Sunflower Summer provides school-aged kids and up to two accompanying adults access to Cosmosphere’s Hall of Space Museum at no charge between May 28 and Aug. 14. Students ages 4-18 and up to two adults per student can receive free admission through the Sunflower Summer app.“We had a blast welcoming thousands more visitors to the Cosmosphere from across Kansas during Sunflower Summer last year,” Cosmosphere president and CEO Jim Remar said. “We can’t wait to see even more families this year.”Sunflower Summer is a program of the Kansas State Department of Education. To get started, parents and guardians need to download the Sunflower Summer app free from either Google Play (Android) or Apple (iOS) app stores.&nbsp;As an added “thank you,” Sunflower Summer guests receive 10% off their purchase in Cosmosphere’s gift store (autographed items not included).Tickets to Cosmosphere’s other venues can be purchased separately at the Cosmosphere Box Office or online at <a href="http://cosmo.org">cosmo.org</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cosmosphere offers free access with 2 programs

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With inflation and a slowdown in shopping sales, tax was lower for both the city of Hutchinson and Reno County in May. That leads to the question of whether the economy is slowing enough to hurt city and county budgets. County Administrator Randy Partington says the lower numbers in May are a little deceiving.

“I believe this is just a one or two month occurrence, this month and probably next month, related to the compensating use tax,” Partington said. “The direct sales tax that came in for the county was $398,000 but we’re still above what we were last year.”

Partington attributes the drop to the decline of compensating use tax, which fell by about $65,000 year-over-year.

“The compensating use tax, the last year at this time, was $72,000,” Partington said. “This time it was around $6,500.”

Still, inflation and the possible slowdown in shopping trends is something the county will be watching in the coming months.

“There’s still concern with inflation and gas prices and everything else, people won’t be spending as much and sales tax won’t be increasing as it has the past couple of years,” Partington said. “But just looking at the sales tax portion, not the compensating use tax, we’re still in better condition than we were last year.”&nbsp;

Compensating use tax is a tax paid to out-of-state retailers on goods and merchandise purchased from other states on which no sales tax was paid. It is also due if the other state’s rate is less than the Kansas rate of 6.5 percent paid at the time of purchase. The tax protects Kansas businesses from unfair competition from out-of-state retailers who sell goods either tax-free or at a lower tax rate. It also assures fairness to Kansans who purchase similar items in Kansas and pay Kansas sales tax.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1617202703577.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOK Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — With inflation and a slowdown in shopping sales, tax was lower for both the city of Hutchinson and Reno County in May. That leads to the question of whether the economy is slowing enough to hurt city and county budgets. County Administrator Randy Partington says the lower numbers in May are a little deceiving.“I believe this is just a one or two month occurrence, this month and probably next month, related to the compensating use tax,” Partington said. “The direct sales tax that came in for the county was $398,000 but we’re still above what we were last year.”Partington attributes the drop to the decline of compensating use tax, which fell by about $65,000 year-over-year.“The compensating use tax, the last year at this time, was $72,000,” Partington said. “This time it was around $6,500.”Still, inflation and the possible slowdown in shopping trends is something the county will be watching in the coming months.“There’s still concern with inflation and gas prices and everything else, people won’t be spending as much and sales tax won’t be increasing as it has the past couple of years,” Partington said. “But just looking at the sales tax portion, not the compensating use tax, we’re still in better condition than we were last year.”&nbsp;Compensating use tax is a tax paid to out-of-state retailers on goods and merchandise purchased from other states on which no sales tax was paid. It is also due if the other state’s rate is less than the Kansas rate of 6.5 percent paid at the time of purchase. The tax protects Kansas businesses from unfair competition from out-of-state retailers who sell goods either tax-free or at a lower tax rate. It also assures fairness to Kansans who purchase similar items in Kansas and pay Kansas sales tax.&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;

Partington says compensating use tax driving sales tax numbers

NICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson USD 309 will offer free summer meals to all children ages 1-18 again this year.

The district will offer drive-thru pickup of a hot lunch, with breakfast for the next day, at Nickerson Elementary School and South Hutchinson Elementary School from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. starting May 31 and running through July 29.

The Nickerson Elementary site will operate Monday through Thursday. There will be no meal service on Fridays. South Hutchinson Elementary will operate Monday through Friday. Parents will be given a card at their first visit providing the number of meals they can receive each day.

Both sites will serve meals from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587157597539.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>NICKERSON, Kan. — Nickerson USD 309 will offer free summer meals to all children ages 1-18 again this year.The district will offer drive-thru pickup of a hot lunch, with breakfast for the next day, at Nickerson Elementary School and South Hutchinson Elementary School from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. starting May 31 and running through July 29.The Nickerson Elementary site will operate Monday through Thursday. There will be no meal service on Fridays. South Hutchinson Elementary will operate Monday through Friday. Parents will be given a card at their first visit providing the number of meals they can receive each day.Both sites will serve meals from 11 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.<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.

USD 309 summer meal program begins May 31

MCPHERSON, Kan. — Patrons are voting in McPherson USD 418 today for the recall of three USD 418 board members. The three board members up for recall are Ann Elliott, Emily Greer and Jeff Johnson.&nbsp;

The petition in the recall effort states that board members violated open meeting laws by creating a quorum outside of official board meetings. It also says the board members failed to maintain healthy safe places for students to learn and had a total lack of transparency, creating a lack of trust among patrons of the district. That includes the failure of the recent bond campaign.

The petition also mentions the district's handling of the mask mandate, which resulted in student isolation, segregation and divisions, creating a threatening and abusive environment for teachers and students.&nbsp;

Advance voting was heavy with 1,272 ballots cast ahead of time. There are also a small number of mailed-out ballots that will need to be turned in.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653334420702.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — Patrons are voting in McPherson USD 418 today for the recall of three USD 418 board members. The three board members up for recall are Ann Elliott, Emily Greer and Jeff Johnson.&nbsp;The petition in the recall effort states that board members violated open meeting laws by creating a quorum outside of official board meetings. It also says the board members failed to maintain healthy safe places for students to learn and had a total lack of transparency, creating a lack of trust among patrons of the district. That includes the failure of the recent bond campaign.The petition also mentions the district's handling of the mask mandate, which resulted in student isolation, segregation and divisions, creating a threatening and abusive environment for teachers and students.&nbsp;Advance voting was heavy with 1,272 ballots cast ahead of time. There are also a small number of mailed-out ballots that will need to be turned in.&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;

USD 418 recall vote is today

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 School Board will go over a survey that was sent out to all district patrons regarding a proposed bond issue for the district. The district is working on a bond issue that could range from simple maintenance needs to a major renovation of the district's buildings.

The survey provided two bond packages. The first includes the basic needs plus repairs to the current high school gymnasium. The work would cost approximately $4.8 million over 20 years. The second package would include expanding the middle school gymnasium and turning it into the main competition facility. It would include a new lobby, concession stand, restrooms, locker rooms, and a weight room. The district says that the proposal would be more cost-effective than renovating the current HS gym into a competition gym or building a new gym.

The district will go over the results of that survey and then decide what direction it wants to take in bringing that bond issue to voters. The goal is to have the matter up for a vote in August. Tonight's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the middle school auditorium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598374070179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — The Pretty Prairie USD 311 School Board will go over a survey that was sent out to all district patrons regarding a proposed bond issue for the district. The district is working on a bond issue that could range from simple maintenance needs to a major renovation of the district's buildings.The survey provided two bond packages. The first includes the basic needs plus repairs to the current high school gymnasium. The work would cost approximately $4.8 million over 20 years. The second package would include expanding the middle school gymnasium and turning it into the main competition facility. It would include a new lobby, concession stand, restrooms, locker rooms, and a weight room. The district says that the proposal would be more cost-effective than renovating the current HS gym into a competition gym or building a new gym.The district will go over the results of that survey and then decide what direction it wants to take in bringing that bond issue to voters. The goal is to have the matter up for a vote in August. Tonight's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the middle school auditorium.<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.

USD 311 School Board to meet Monday evening

I recently saw my first copperhead of the year while out trying to catch some pre-spawn bass at a farm pond. Initially I thought it was a snapping turtle poking its head above the water before I caught a glimpse of the telltale oscillation of the more sinister reptile.

As is usually the case when I encounter a serpent in the wild, the old adage that it’s just as afraid of me as I am of it proved laughably false. If that held true, the two-foot reptile would have turned around when the first rock splashed near its head. Instead, it kept slithering closer to the bank where I stood.

Clearly my dislike for this creature wasn’t reciprocated. It paid me no mind as it settled onto a rock about 30 yards away were it began basking in the sun. I resumed casting a lure into the water while keeping an eye on the danger coiled up a short distance away.

Our interaction continued with me being vigilant on the snake’s whereabouts, while it regarded me with extreme indifference. It eventually warmed up enough to slither back into the water and across the pond. I took the opportunity to walk back to my tacklebox, keeping my eyes fixed on the ground for signs of another visitor. I safely fetched my gear and went on my way without seeing another serpent, but there were a few suspicious looking sticks that helped quicken my retreat.

All of this fear is, of course, illogical. There’s no shortage of statistics detailing the just how unlikely my demise will come at the fangs of a snake. Of the several thousand people bitten each year, only about a dozen deaths are recorded. The venom in the native snakes of Kansas — three varieties of rattlers and the aforementioned copperhead — also is relatively mild according to the people who judge these things.

By mild, I mean the venom will cause excruciating pain instead of killing you, which isn’t enough to overcome the strong desire for self-preservation. So, there’s an evolutionary case to be made for the illogical reactions being completely rational. I also learned a healthy amount of fear from family members.

My grandfather once mistook a coil of hose for a black snake when spraying cattle in the corral. He raced across the pen and up a fencepost before warning the rest of us about the alleged intruder. While the rest of us found the situation quite comical, we also knew it could have been any of us fleeing in panic. I’ve stumbled over myself more than once after hearing a rattle in tall grass only to see a cicada fly off.

Whether innate or learned, the fear is real. I spent a decent portion of my youth trying to imitate St. Patrick and eradicate snakes in my portion of the world. Blacksnakes, bull-snakes and other nonvenomous relatives were left alone to deal with vermin around the outbuildings, but even the sight of them would set my heart racing. The closest encounter I’ve ever had with any snake is when I was about 10 or so and stepped on a water snake while crossing a pond dam. I can still recall the squish under my boot in a way that gives me shivers.

Once again, I was more bothered by our encounter than the snake. At least I pretended to be scared, what with my gasping and lurching and stumbling backward away from mortal danger. The snake barely lifted its head to flick its tongue in my direction.

The one thing I haven’t managed over all these years is to develop a good sense of not going to the same places I regularly encounter snakes. I’m relying on a good pair of boots, long pants and the apparent apathy serpents have for my existence to keep me safe in the pastures, ponds and creeks over the Plains.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauI recently saw my first copperhead of the year while out trying to catch some pre-spawn bass at a farm pond. Initially I thought it was a snapping turtle poking its head above the water before I caught a glimpse of the telltale oscillation of the more sinister reptile.As is usually the case when I encounter a serpent in the wild, the old adage that it’s just as afraid of me as I am of it proved laughably false. If that held true, the two-foot reptile would have turned around when the first rock splashed near its head. Instead, it kept slithering closer to the bank where I stood.Clearly my dislike for this creature wasn’t reciprocated. It paid me no mind as it settled onto a rock about 30 yards away were it began basking in the sun. I resumed casting a lure into the water while keeping an eye on the danger coiled up a short distance away.Our interaction continued with me being vigilant on the snake’s whereabouts, while it regarded me with extreme indifference. It eventually warmed up enough to slither back into the water and across the pond. I took the opportunity to walk back to my tacklebox, keeping my eyes fixed on the ground for signs of another visitor. I safely fetched my gear and went on my way without seeing another serpent, but there were a few suspicious looking sticks that helped quicken my retreat.All of this fear is, of course, illogical. There’s no shortage of statistics detailing the just how unlikely my demise will come at the fangs of a snake. Of the several thousand people bitten each year, only about a dozen deaths are recorded. The venom in the native snakes of Kansas — three varieties of rattlers and the aforementioned copperhead — also is relatively mild according to the people who judge these things.By mild, I mean the venom will cause excruciating pain instead of killing you, which isn’t enough to overcome the strong desire for self-preservation. So, there’s an evolutionary case to be made for the illogical reactions being completely rational. I also learned a healthy amount of fear from family members.My grandfather once mistook a coil of hose for a black snake when spraying cattle in the corral. He raced across the pen and up a fencepost before warning the rest of us about the alleged intruder. While the rest of us found the situation quite comical, we also knew it could have been any of us fleeing in panic. I’ve stumbled over myself more than once after hearing a rattle in tall grass only to see a cicada fly off.Whether innate or learned, the fear is real. I spent a decent portion of my youth trying to imitate St. Patrick and eradicate snakes in my portion of the world. Blacksnakes, bull-snakes and other nonvenomous relatives were left alone to deal with vermin around the outbuildings, but even the sight of them would set my heart racing. The closest encounter I’ve ever had with any snake is when I was about 10 or so and stepped on a water snake while crossing a pond dam. I can still recall the squish under my boot in a way that gives me shivers.Once again, I was more bothered by our encounter than the snake. At least I pretended to be scared, what with my gasping and lurching and stumbling backward away from mortal danger. The snake barely lifted its head to flick its tongue in my direction.The one thing I haven’t managed over all these years is to develop a good sense of not going to the same places I regularly encounter snakes. I’m relying on a good pair of boots, long pants and the apparent apathy serpents have for my existence to keep me safe in the pastures, ponds and creeks over the Plains."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2022 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Snakes on the Plains

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three people were injured in a two-vehicle accident in Hutchinson around 4:17 Saturday afternoon.

Hutchinson police say 15-year-old Riley Morrison of Hutchinson was driving west on 6th Avenue when he crossed into the intersection with Pershing Street and collided with a northbound vehicle driven by 43-year-old Aubrey Singler of Hutchinson. The vehicles then struck a light pole and fire hydrant.

Sigler, Morrison and a passenger in his vehicle, 19-year-old Kaden Sims, were taken by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Sims was later transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita in critical condition.&nbsp;

The accident is still under investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Three people were injured in a two-vehicle accident in Hutchinson around 4:17 Saturday afternoon.Hutchinson police say 15-year-old Riley Morrison of Hutchinson was driving west on 6th Avenue when he crossed into the intersection with Pershing Street and collided with a northbound vehicle driven by 43-year-old Aubrey Singler of Hutchinson. The vehicles then struck a light pole and fire hydrant.Sigler, Morrison and a passenger in his vehicle, 19-year-old Kaden Sims, were taken by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Sims was later transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita in critical condition.&nbsp;The accident is still under investigation.&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.

Three injured in Saturday afternoon accident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The next stage of budget discussions for the Hutchinson City Council is coming up Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. 

The council will be looking at a water rate study completed earlier this year and a separate sewer rate study from 2020 from Burns &amp; McDonnell.

The study says revenues under existing water rates are not sufficient to meet the projected cash obligations of the utility over the nine-year study period. 

The study recommends a consistent increase of 5.5% every year from FY 2023 to FY 2029.

In the proposed rate design, minimum charges by meter size are increased 2 percent per year, while volumetric charges are increased slightly over 7 percent per year. City Route rates are assumed to increase $0.01 per hundred cubic feet per year to improve equity in cost recovery.

According to a regional comparison of rates, even with the increases, Hutchinson's water rates would be more than Great Bend, Dodge City, McPherson and Wichita, but less than Manhattan, Newton, Olathe, Pratt, Salina and several jurisdictions in Johnson County and still below the regional average.

On the sewer rate side, the study says revenues under existing sewer rates are also not sufficient to meet the projected cash obligations of the utility over the study period. 

The study recommends a consistent increase of 5% every year from FY 2023 to FY 2029. The increase per 5 Ccf, or 500 cubic feet, would be consistent with national sewer rate increase trends of about 5 percent. 

Hutchinson is well below average in sewer rate charges compared to other Kansas cities. Only Pratt and Edgerton are currently lower, with Hutch set to pass up Great Bend if they take the 5% increase, but still to be below McPherson, Wichita, Dodge City, the other Johnson County jurisdictions listed, and Newton.

The Burns &amp; McDonnell team and City Staff will be in attendance to present the rate studies. The meeting is at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the City Council Chambers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642628385503.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson City Council 2022.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson City Council 2022.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The next stage of budget discussions for the Hutchinson City Council is coming up Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. The council will be looking at a water rate study completed earlier this year and a separate sewer rate study from 2020 from Burns &amp; McDonnell.The study says revenues under existing water rates are not sufficient to meet the projected cash obligations of the utility over the nine-year study period. The study recommends a consistent increase of 5.5% every year from FY 2023 to FY 2029.In the proposed rate design, minimum charges by meter size are increased 2 percent per year, while volumetric charges are increased slightly over 7 percent per year. City Route rates are assumed to increase $0.01 per hundred cubic feet per year to improve equity in cost recovery.According to a regional comparison of rates, even with the increases, Hutchinson's water rates would be more than Great Bend, Dodge City, McPherson and Wichita, but less than Manhattan, Newton, Olathe, Pratt, Salina and several jurisdictions in Johnson County and still below the regional average.On the sewer rate side, the study says revenues under existing sewer rates are also not sufficient to meet the projected cash obligations of the utility over the study period. The study recommends a consistent increase of 5% every year from FY 2023 to FY 2029. The increase per 5 Ccf, or 500 cubic feet, would be consistent with national sewer rate increase trends of about 5 percent. Hutchinson is well below average in sewer rate charges compared to other Kansas cities. Only Pratt and Edgerton are currently lower, with Hutch set to pass up Great Bend if they take the 5% increase, but still to be below McPherson, Wichita, Dodge City, the other Johnson County jurisdictions listed, and Newton.The Burns &amp; McDonnell team and City Staff will be in attendance to present the rate studies. The meeting is at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the City Council Chambers.

More budget discussions Tuesday for Hutchinson City Council

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
School consolidation is the third rail of K-12 discussions in Kansas, but as he prepares to retire from Hutchinson USD 308 at the end of the month, superintendent Mike Folks admits its something the state needs to at least look at, even though it is complex.

"I think there needs to be some incentives for school districts based on educational opportunities," Folks said. "We go back to what's best for kids in getting an education and having the electives. I think it should be incentivized, where districts can consolidate on their own and it's not just based on sparsity, it's based on some other factors."

Because of the way the school finance formula works, there are some advantages to having fewer students in terms of getting more money for those students. According to the Kansas Department of Education, low enrollment weighting applies to school districts with Full Time Equivalency (FTE) enrollments that are less than 1,622 and the weighting is calculated on two linear transitions: for districts with 100 or fewer students the weighting is 101.4 percent of the enrollment of the district, and that amount transitions to approximately 3.5 percent of the enrollment of the district as the enrollment approaches 1,622 students. 

"I fully support local decisions on their schools," Folks said. "Small schools, which I've led, I've attended, provide a great education. When you look at how much taxation is local, versus how much of it is equalization, which comes from, you know, state income tax and sales tax, versus just the local property tax, that's where it gets complex."

Folks noted a comparison from several years ago what at the time he considered an apples to apples comparison between two counties.

"There was a very smart legislator that shared that in Doniphan County, there's five school districts, 632 square miles, 1400 kids," Folks said. "Clay County, USD 379, 632 square miles, 1400 kids, one school district. The state paid $10 million more a year in Doniphan County to educate those kids, because of low correlation weighting."

The last time consolidation was forced in Kansas, according to Folks, was 1965.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579618707683.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
School consolidation is the third rail of K-12 discussions in Kansas, but as he prepares to retire from Hutchinson USD 308 at the end of the month, superintendent Mike Folks admits its something the state needs to at least look at, even though it is complex."I think there needs to be some incentives for school districts based on educational opportunities," Folks said. "We go back to what's best for kids in getting an education and having the electives. I think it should be incentivized, where districts can consolidate on their own and it's not just based on sparsity, it's based on some other factors."Because of the way the school finance formula works, there are some advantages to having fewer students in terms of getting more money for those students. According to the Kansas Department of Education, low enrollment weighting applies to school districts with Full Time Equivalency (FTE) enrollments that are less than 1,622 and the weighting is calculated on two linear transitions: for districts with 100 or fewer students the weighting is 101.4 percent of the enrollment of the district, and that amount transitions to approximately 3.5 percent of the enrollment of the district as the enrollment approaches 1,622 students. "I fully support local decisions on their schools," Folks said. "Small schools, which I've led, I've attended, provide a great education. When you look at how much taxation is local, versus how much of it is equalization, which comes from, you know, state income tax and sales tax, versus just the local property tax, that's where it gets complex."Folks noted a comparison from several years ago what at the time he considered an apples to apples comparison between two counties."There was a very smart legislator that shared that in Doniphan County, there's five school districts, 632 square miles, 1400 kids," Folks said. "Clay County, USD 379, 632 square miles, 1400 kids, one school district. The state paid $10 million more a year in Doniphan County to educate those kids, because of low correlation weighting."The last time consolidation was forced in Kansas, according to Folks, was 1965.

Folks: Consolidation needs discussion, even with local control


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
There's still time to enroll your young learner in one of the Early Childhood programs in Reno County.

Hutchinson Public Schools, Head Start of Reno County, and the Reno County Early Education Center have teamed up this year to host enrollment clinics for their programs.

The next in person clinic date is June 9 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Early Head Start at 518 North Washington.

If you're unavailable June 9, call 620-615-5750 to make an appointment.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
There's still time to enroll your young learner in one of the Early Childhood programs in Reno County.Hutchinson Public Schools, Head Start of Reno County, and the Reno County Early Education Center have teamed up this year to host enrollment clinics for their programs.The next in person clinic date is June 9 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Early Head Start at 518 North Washington.If you're unavailable June 9, call 620-615-5750 to make an appointment.

Next Early Childhood enrollment clinic is June 9


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Twenty new law enforcement officers, including Lucas Dunbar from the Hutchinson Police Department, graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) on Friday at a ceremony held in the KLETC Integrity Auditorium. 

Officer Daniel Harshbarger of the Rose Hill Police Department was the graduating class president. The speaker for the ceremony was Sheriff Jack Laurie of the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office. Michael Turenne, KLETC Senior Instructor of Police, was the Class Coordinator for the 293rd Basic Training Class.

Officers Jonah Rostetter of the Hesston Police Department, Minh Pham of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Marc Coletti of the Salina Police Department, and Deputy Jeremiah Andrews of the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office received fitness awards. Officer Coletti was also recognized for having the best overall improvement in the push-ups, sit-ups, and the 1.5 mile run while Officer Rostetter was recognized for having run the most miles in his class (224.96 miles). Officer Pham was recognized during the ceremony for his firearms proficiency as the class’ “Top Shot”.

About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Twenty new law enforcement officers, including Lucas Dunbar from the Hutchinson Police Department, graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) on Friday at a ceremony held in the KLETC Integrity Auditorium. Officer Daniel Harshbarger of the Rose Hill Police Department was the graduating class president. The speaker for the ceremony was Sheriff Jack Laurie of the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office. Michael Turenne, KLETC Senior Instructor of Police, was the Class Coordinator for the 293rd Basic Training Class.Officers Jonah Rostetter of the Hesston Police Department, Minh Pham of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Marc Coletti of the Salina Police Department, and Deputy Jeremiah Andrews of the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office received fitness awards. Officer Coletti was also recognized for having the best overall improvement in the push-ups, sit-ups, and the 1.5 mile run while Officer Rostetter was recognized for having run the most miles in his class (224.96 miles). Officer Pham was recognized during the ceremony for his firearms proficiency as the class’ “Top Shot”.About 300 officers enroll annually in KLETC 14-week basic training programs. KLETC offers continuing education and specialized training to over 10,000 Kansas officers each year. KLETC is located one mile west and one mile south of Yoder, near Hutchinson.

Hutch officer among latest KLETC class

The latest from Ukraine, supervised visitation explained, water still a problem in Kansas, plus more from Hutch Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601052662830.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>The latest from Ukraine, supervised visitation explained, water still a problem in Kansas, plus more from Hutch Post.<div><iframe title="May 23, 2022 Morning News" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=4qs3a-1231f04-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7"></iframe></div>

May 23, 2022 Morning News

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.

Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> </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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573140944016.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.Hutch Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families. Funeral homes can send notices to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hutchpost@gmail.com" target="_blank">hutchpost@gmail.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank"> </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.

Recent obituaries

MCPHERSON —A $25 million gift just made to McPherson College is the largest gift ever made to a private liberal arts college in Kansas and among one of the largest to any Kansas college. 

The gift was made by Drs. Melanie and Richard Lundquist. Melanie Lundquist made the announcement during her Commencement address at MC’s 134th Commencement Ceremony. 

“The impact of the Lundquists’ gift and friendship is truly immeasurable,” said McPherson College president Michael Schneider.

MCPHERSON —A $25 million gift just made to McPherson College is the largest gift ever made to a private liberal arts college in Kansas and among one of the largest to any Kansas college. <div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMcPhersonCollege%2Fvideos%2F5000144596760332%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The gift was made by Drs. Melanie and Richard Lundquist. Melanie Lundquist made the announcement during her Commencement address at MC’s 134th Commencement Ceremony. “The impact of the Lundquists’ gift and friendship is truly immeasurable,” said McPherson College president Michael Schneider.

🎥Largest gift ever to a private liberal arts college in Kansas

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
May is National Supervised Visitation Awareness Month and Kat Brylie-Napier with BrightHouse notes that unless you are a part of such an agreement, you probably don't know what it is.

"Supervised visitation is when a non-custodial parent, whoever the child is not living with, meets up at a third party neutral location and gets to spend time in a risk free, safe environment with somebody just kind of sitting there and watching," Brylie-Napier said. "That's just to make sure that everything is going okay, there's not conversations that a child doesn't need to hear and make it so that they can just really enjoy their time together, versus maybe in an environment where the two parents could see each other and start screaming at each other, because they are not getting along at the moment."

"We have kids as young as about six months old," Brylie-Napier said. "We also have a child that is seventeen. You don't expect for there, really to be teenagers. A lot of times, when you think about this, you often think about little kids. Teenagers are a lot more opinionated, as we all know. Sometimes, it's having that third party and that neutral person there, makes them a lot safer, especially if there's been issues with that parent in the past."

There are many reasons why a court appointed special advocate or a judge might refer a couple for supervised visitation.

"One of the ones that we see quite a lot is just, the divorce is messy," Brylie-Napier said. "Currently, the two parents are just not getting along. Every time they see each other, it's a snarky comment. It's, they don't like the new partner. They don't like what that new person's doing with their lives. It causes arguments. The children don't really need to be around that. It offers them the chance to take care of that. We also, unfortunately, do see some parents who are unfortunately dealing with some mental health problems, that may be untreated, or they are still going through trying to get a treatment that works. It allows them the chance to be doing that, without the other parent making comments about how they are not a fit parent because they have these mental health issues. Unfortunately, we do also see drug problems, as well. With the drug problems, often times, it's, you know, right now they're not a safe parent to be around 24-7, but if they are working on getting sober, this gives them a chance to see the child while they are working through that part of their recovery."

If you have more questions, you can call Brylie-Napier at BrightHouse at (620) 665-1471.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653138707780.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
May is National Supervised Visitation Awareness Month and Kat Brylie-Napier with BrightHouse notes that unless you are a part of such an agreement, you probably don't know what it is."Supervised visitation is when a non-custodial parent, whoever the child is not living with, meets up at a third party neutral location and gets to spend time in a risk free, safe environment with somebody just kind of sitting there and watching," Brylie-Napier said. "That's just to make sure that everything is going okay, there's not conversations that a child doesn't need to hear and make it so that they can just really enjoy their time together, versus maybe in an environment where the two parents could see each other and start screaming at each other, because they are not getting along at the moment."It's not just for little ones, either."We have kids as young as about six months old," Brylie-Napier said. "We also have a child that is seventeen. You don't expect for there, really to be teenagers. A lot of times, when you think about this, you often think about little kids. Teenagers are a lot more opinionated, as we all know. Sometimes, it's having that third party and that neutral person there, makes them a lot safer, especially if there's been issues with that parent in the past."There are many reasons why a court appointed special advocate or a judge might refer a couple for supervised visitation."One of the ones that we see quite a lot is just, the divorce is messy," Brylie-Napier said. "Currently, the two parents are just not getting along. Every time they see each other, it's a snarky comment. It's, they don't like the new partner. They don't like what that new person's doing with their lives. It causes arguments. The children don't really need to be around that. It offers them the chance to take care of that. We also, unfortunately, do see some parents who are unfortunately dealing with some mental health problems, that may be untreated, or they are still going through trying to get a treatment that works. It allows them the chance to be doing that, without the other parent making comments about how they are not a fit parent because they have these mental health issues. Unfortunately, we do also see drug problems, as well. With the drug problems, often times, it's, you know, right now they're not a safe parent to be around 24-7, but if they are working on getting sober, this gives them a chance to see the child while they are working through that part of their recovery."If you have more questions, you can call Brylie-Napier at BrightHouse at (620) 665-1471.

Supervised visitation helps keep parents, kids safe

NICK GOSNELL and RICK KRAUS Hutch Post

SOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The May Market South Hutch Business of the Month is Ashcraft Pharmacy. Tami Friday is the owner.

"I've actually been the owner for six years," Friday said. "However, I've worked here for almost 19 years and I worked here in high school, too."

In fact, Friday had no idea she'd own the place when she started.

"It started out as a summer job," Friday said. "Steve Ashcraft that used to own the pharmacy is a good friend of my dad and mom. I started working for them in high school and came back. He's almost like my second dad, I guess you'd say. It just went from there, he's the one that got me to go to pharmacy school, even."

Friday said when Ashcraft retired in 2016, it was a natural progression for her to move into ownership. The pharmacy has about eight employees and right now is fully staffed and it is a family affair.

"My daughter is actually helping me out this summer," Friday said. "She's getting her pharmacy tech certification and then my husband is the handyman, jack of all trades, helps me with delivery and that kind of stuff."

Ashcraft Pharmacy prides itself on taking care of the families in South Hutch and beyond. They know their people.

"It's nice to hear and we find out how everybody in the family is doing," Friday said. "It's a family oriented business."

The supply chain really does have an effect, but Ashcraft Pharmacy has been able to keep things going well.

"We've had some issues with that, definitely, especially with all of our over the counter products," Friday said. "There have been a few prescription things, but we've managed to get by. Either, we find a different wholesaler or we have to just do something different completely."

Getting paid by customer's insurers is a constant challenge, but they take it one day at a time.

"It is a struggle out there, especially for independent pharmacies," Friday said. "We don't have the buying power that maybe they do at the larger chain stores. It is a challenge. The competition in pharmacy is fierce. When you throw in mail order and Amazon and big chain stores and the little mom and pop stores like mine, it's a struggle."

With free delivery and the personal touch for everyone from Grandma to the littlest, Ashcraft Pharmacy is a place where you can know your health matters to them. Ashcraft Pharmacy is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 9:30 to noon on Saturday at 503 North Main in South Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653141325043.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL and RICK KRAUS Hutch PostSOUTH HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The May Market South Hutch Business of the Month is Ashcraft Pharmacy. Tami Friday is the owner."I've actually been the owner for six years," Friday said. "However, I've worked here for almost 19 years and I worked here in high school, too."In fact, Friday had no idea she'd own the place when she started."It started out as a summer job," Friday said. "Steve Ashcraft that used to own the pharmacy is a good friend of my dad and mom. I started working for them in high school and came back. He's almost like my second dad, I guess you'd say. It just went from there, he's the one that got me to go to pharmacy school, even."Friday said when Ashcraft retired in 2016, it was a natural progression for her to move into ownership. The pharmacy has about eight employees and right now is fully staffed and it is a family affair."My daughter is actually helping me out this summer," Friday said. "She's getting her pharmacy tech certification and then my husband is the handyman, jack of all trades, helps me with delivery and that kind of stuff."Ashcraft Pharmacy prides itself on taking care of the families in South Hutch and beyond. They know their people."It's nice to hear and we find out how everybody in the family is doing," Friday said. "It's a family oriented business."The supply chain really does have an effect, but Ashcraft Pharmacy has been able to keep things going well."We've had some issues with that, definitely, especially with all of our over the counter products," Friday said. "There have been a few prescription things, but we've managed to get by. Either, we find a different wholesaler or we have to just do something different completely."Getting paid by customer's insurers is a constant challenge, but they take it one day at a time."It is a struggle out there, especially for independent pharmacies," Friday said. "We don't have the buying power that maybe they do at the larger chain stores. It is a challenge. The competition in pharmacy is fierce. When you throw in mail order and Amazon and big chain stores and the little mom and pop stores like mine, it's a struggle."With free delivery and the personal touch for everyone from Grandma to the littlest, Ashcraft Pharmacy is a place where you can know your health matters to them. Ashcraft Pharmacy is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 9:30 to noon on Saturday at 503 North Main in South Hutchinson.

Ashcraft Pharmacy is Market South Hutch Business of the Month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After taking time off, Bike Across Kansas is back and kicks off June 11 at the Colorado border. This year's event includes a stop in Hutchinson on Tuesday, June 14.

According to Angela Updegraff of Harley’s Bicycles, riders will start arriving in Hutchinson around 10 a.m. That will continue until around 3 p.m. The riders will be coming from an overnight stop in Saint John.&nbsp;

Updegraff says that riders will come up West 7th Avenue and be met with all kinds of food and other welcome items from local schools and vendors. The riders will then spend the night at the Salthawk Activity Center before leaving on the next leg to Hillsboro.

Updegraff says it is great to see Bike Across Kansas going again after two years off because of COVID and it's great they are coming to Hutchinson as the ride usually makes an effort to stop in smaller towns. Updegraff says they will have information on things to see in Hutchinson along with various food and drink establishments for the riders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574623767558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After taking time off, Bike Across Kansas is back and kicks off June 11 at the Colorado border. This year's event includes a stop in Hutchinson on Tuesday, June 14.According to Angela Updegraff of Harley’s Bicycles, riders will start arriving in Hutchinson around 10 a.m. That will continue until around 3 p.m. The riders will be coming from an overnight stop in Saint John.&nbsp;Updegraff says that riders will come up West 7th Avenue and be met with all kinds of food and other welcome items from local schools and vendors. The riders will then spend the night at the Salthawk Activity Center before leaving on the next leg to Hillsboro.Updegraff says it is great to see Bike Across Kansas going again after two years off because of COVID and it's great they are coming to Hutchinson as the ride usually makes an effort to stop in smaller towns. Updegraff says they will have information on things to see in Hutchinson along with various food and drink establishments for the riders.<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;