HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is a light agenda for the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The council will take action on the consent agenda, which includes approval of contracts with the police and fire unions and approval of the contracts with the zoo for the gift shop and the Prairie Thunder Railroad.&nbsp;

Also Tuesday, the city will take action on a resolution for redemption and payment of industrial revenue bonds that were used for an expansion project at Lowen back in 2008. The resolution releases the lease from the city back to Lowen as part of the 2008 agreement.

The council was to take action on a new collective bargaining agreement with its service employees, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/74cbbd86-e681-4394-ae47-fa5c46a4e030">but employees voted down the proposal on Thursday</a>.

Finally, the council will present reports and hear from City Manager Jeff Cantrell.

<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/2022/1/1642172859425.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It is a light agenda for the Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday.&nbsp;The council will take action on the consent agenda, which includes approval of contracts with the police and fire unions and approval of the contracts with the zoo for the gift shop and the Prairie Thunder Railroad.&nbsp;Also Tuesday, the city will take action on a resolution for redemption and payment of industrial revenue bonds that were used for an expansion project at Lowen back in 2008. The resolution releases the lease from the city back to Lowen as part of the 2008 agreement.The council was to take action on a new collective bargaining agreement with its service employees, <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/74cbbd86-e681-4394-ae47-fa5c46a4e030">but employees voted down the proposal on Thursday</a>.Finally, the council will present reports and hear from City Manager Jeff Cantrell.<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;

Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will hold its first workshop on Monday night. The workshops were put in place at the request of the council to both discuss and gather input on various city issues. This Monday's discussion will center around the Woodie Seat Freeway and the issues surrounding the upkeep and future needs.&nbsp;

“What we need to decide as a group is the conceptual design (of a potential project) and what is going to be politically acceptable within the neighborhood and represented leadership for that area of the city,” City Manager Jeff Cantrell said.&nbsp;

The city has tried three times to secure funding that would have helped pay for a nearly $10 million renovation of the area, including removing two bridges and building two round-a-bouts in the interchange with Avenue A. All three attempts failed. The discussion will also address the potential change for those living in the area.

“It would be a change for the neighborhood, so that's one where we need to have some kind of solidified direction from everybody,” Cantrell said. “It’s going to take quite a bit of time to design (a project) and for us to seek potential grant opportunities. And we won't be able to change the design later on without having to go back to the drawing board.”

The issue of the freeway has been a divided one in the council. How the council wants to proceed with the freeway could be different with two new council members on board. Monday’s study session begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.

<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/2020/4/1585858972025.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will hold its first workshop on Monday night. The workshops were put in place at the request of the council to both discuss and gather input on various city issues. This Monday's discussion will center around the Woodie Seat Freeway and the issues surrounding the upkeep and future needs.&nbsp;“What we need to decide as a group is the conceptual design (of a potential project) and what is going to be politically acceptable within the neighborhood and represented leadership for that area of the city,” City Manager Jeff Cantrell said.&nbsp;The city has tried three times to secure funding that would have helped pay for a nearly $10 million renovation of the area, including removing two bridges and building two round-a-bouts in the interchange with Avenue A. All three attempts failed. The discussion will also address the potential change for those living in the area.“It would be a change for the neighborhood, so that's one where we need to have some kind of solidified direction from everybody,” Cantrell said. “It’s going to take quite a bit of time to design (a project) and for us to seek potential grant opportunities. And we won't be able to change the design later on without having to go back to the drawing board.”The issue of the freeway has been a divided one in the council. How the council wants to proceed with the freeway could be different with two new council members on board. Monday’s study session begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Hutchinson city offices.<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.

City Council looks for answers for Woodie Seat Freeway

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Schools across Reno County will be closed on Monday for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Some districts will hold teacher in-service days or just give everyone the day off.&nbsp;

Some city governments will be closed on Monday. The Haven city building will be closed and the Haven City Council will meet on Tuesday instead of the usual Monday. Nickerson, Buhler and Hutchinson city offices will all be open.&nbsp;

Reno County offices will be closed, as well as district court, and there will be no mail delivery on Monday.

<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/2021/12/1640952885691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Schools across Reno County will be closed on Monday for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Some districts will hold teacher in-service days or just give everyone the day off.&nbsp;Some city governments will be closed on Monday. The Haven city building will be closed and the Haven City Council will meet on Tuesday instead of the usual Monday. Nickerson, Buhler and Hutchinson city offices will all be open.&nbsp;Reno County offices will be closed, as well as district court, and there will be no mail delivery on Monday.<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;

Closings for MLK holiday

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
<a href="https://www.renogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/9593/Overdose-Trends-in-Reno-County">The Overdose Trends in Reno County report</a> notes that opioid overdoses are only part of the problem in the county.

"Not only do we have the isolation of COVID-19 that, of course, drives those with a substance use disorder slash addiction deeper into isolation, away from support groups and treatment facilities," said substance misuse educator Seth Dewey with the Reno County Health Department. "We also have the advent of, of course, as we always talk about, fentanyl, but not only just fentanyl, but fentanyl being mixed into other substances without the knowledge of the individual who is engaging in that activity."

In other words, an addict may not think they need Narcan handy for a potential overdose, because it isn't their intent to take an opiate, but it's mixed in to the drug sold to them. It's still a better bet from a financial standpoint to treat the problems in an addict's brain then either let them die or put them in jail.

"Harm reduction, it's not just Narcan, it's also referral to treatment," Dewey said. "Getting people a seamless process into treatment. The cost of treatment versus incarceration, even with medically assisted treatment options, is so significantly cheaper. That's not only cheaper to the individual. It's cheaper to the county because many of these individuals are, in fact, uninsured."

The average annual cost of yearlong incarceration in Kansas is just over $30,000. Methadone treatment for heroin users costs about $4,700 a year, with outpatient rehab at $5,000 per three months.

"Almost all of the overdoses are occurring within the 67501 ZIP code," said data analyst DJ Gering. "We know that those are also where most of our ED visits into the hospital are coming from, as well as our mental health ED visits, things like suicidal ideation, suicide attempts."

Fifty percent of the ED visits connected with overdoses had a mental health issue as a component of the hospital visit. Those are statistically most likely in the 67501 ZIP Code, as well.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
<a href="https://www.renogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/9593/Overdose-Trends-in-Reno-County">The Overdose Trends in Reno County report</a> notes that opioid overdoses are only part of the problem in the county."Not only do we have the isolation of COVID-19 that, of course, drives those with a substance use disorder slash addiction deeper into isolation, away from support groups and treatment facilities," said substance misuse educator Seth Dewey with the Reno County Health Department. "We also have the advent of, of course, as we always talk about, fentanyl, but not only just fentanyl, but fentanyl being mixed into other substances without the knowledge of the individual who is engaging in that activity."In other words, an addict may not think they need Narcan handy for a potential overdose, because it isn't their intent to take an opiate, but it's mixed in to the drug sold to them. It's still a better bet from a financial standpoint to treat the problems in an addict's brain then either let them die or put them in jail."Harm reduction, it's not just Narcan, it's also referral to treatment," Dewey said. "Getting people a seamless process into treatment. The cost of treatment versus incarceration, even with medically assisted treatment options, is so significantly cheaper. That's not only cheaper to the individual. It's cheaper to the county because many of these individuals are, in fact, uninsured."The average annual cost of yearlong incarceration in Kansas is just over $30,000. Methadone treatment for heroin users costs about $4,700 a year, with outpatient rehab at $5,000 per three months."Almost all of the overdoses are occurring within the 67501 ZIP code," said data analyst DJ Gering. "We know that those are also where most of our ED visits into the hospital are coming from, as well as our mental health ED visits, things like suicidal ideation, suicide attempts."Fifty percent of the ED visits connected with overdoses had a mental health issue as a component of the hospital visit. Those are statistically most likely in the 67501 ZIP Code, as well.

Overdose report shows need for harm reduction, mental health treatment

A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. Saturday.

Snow will affect the area from around sunrise until early this evening.&nbsp;

Snow is expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 2
  inches are likely with locally higher amounts up to 4 inches possible.
  Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. 

Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy blowing snow
  could significantly reduce visibility. Gusty winds could bring
  down small tree branches. Wind chills in the single digits are
  likely today. Travel could become hazardous in areas of blowing
  snow.

According to Stanley Murdock with the Christian Soup Ministry, the soup kitchen is closed Saturday, but home meals will still be delivered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642242593921.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 6 p.m. Saturday.Snow will affect the area from around sunrise until early this evening.&nbsp;Snow is expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 2
 inches are likely with locally higher amounts up to 4 inches possible.
 Winds could gust as high as 45 mph. Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy blowing snow
 could significantly reduce visibility. Gusty winds could bring
 down small tree branches. Wind chills in the single digits are
 likely today. Travel could become hazardous in areas of blowing
 snow.According to Stanley Murdock with the Christian Soup Ministry, the soup kitchen is closed Saturday, but home meals will still be delivered.

Update: Winter Weather Advisory for Saturday

CHENEY, Kan. — For several years, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has used an online reservation system for camping. And while it is convenient for those who visit the lakes, it does mean campers must plan well in advance if they want a camping spot, especially for the holidays.&nbsp;

The reservations for this year opened Dec. 16. A check of the Cheney State Park reservation site shows that all of the standard campsites with water and electricity are already taken for the Memorial Day holiday and most are already spoken for, for the Fourth of July weekend. Primitive campsites remain for most weekends.

It's a trend that started in the last couple of years that has those who decide to camp on short notice out of luck when it comes to most of the state lakes unless they want to camp on primitive sites. If a site is reserved and the renters don’t show up, then the site just goes empty for the weekend.

Cheney averages around 50,000 visitors during the Memorial holiday weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634073322260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHENEY, Kan. — For several years, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has used an online reservation system for camping. And while it is convenient for those who visit the lakes, it does mean campers must plan well in advance if they want a camping spot, especially for the holidays.&nbsp;The reservations for this year opened Dec. 16. A check of the Cheney State Park reservation site shows that all of the standard campsites with water and electricity are already taken for the Memorial Day holiday and most are already spoken for, for the Fourth of July weekend. Primitive campsites remain for most weekends.It's a trend that started in the last couple of years that has those who decide to camp on short notice out of luck when it comes to most of the state lakes unless they want to camp on primitive sites. If a site is reserved and the renters don’t show up, then the site just goes empty for the weekend.Cheney averages around 50,000 visitors during the Memorial holiday weekend.<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;

Camping reservations for Cheney State Park going fast for the summer

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Areas around Hutchinson could become the focal point for hydrogen storage as a way to store energy for future use. According to an article from the University of Kansas, the project at the Kansas Geological Survey may help address the challenge of intermittent production from renewable sources.

The KGS, working with Evergy, will study the possibility of storing excess energy generated by coal-fired power plants in underground salt caverns for future use. The Hutchinson Salt Member covers about 37,000 square miles in the subsurface in central and south-central Kansas and reaches a maximum thickness of more than 500 feet. Thick salt layers also occur in western and southwestern Kansas and could be used to store the reserve energy.

“Excess electricity can be used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen gas,” said Franek Hasiuk, KGS geologist and principal investigator for the project. “The hydrogen can then be stored in salt caverns for later use, either by burning it with natural gas in the power plant, adding it into pipeline natural gas for burning in home furnaces and stoves, supplying it to another business for use in chemical processes like fertilizer production, or using it to power vehicles.”

Natural gas and coal-fired plants, once the mainstay of the power industry, were designed to be always-on power generators to meet consumers’ electricity needs. Now, however, electrical grid operators often buy power first from wind, solar and nuclear operations and turn to natural gas and coal plants during periods of peak demand or when supplies from renewable sources are low.

This leads to periods when the plants are left idle, an inefficient and uneconomical use of resources. But a plant could be more economically viable if it could remain on and store any unneeded energy for future use.

“Hydrogen storage could allow Evergy to store large amounts of energy to deal with the problem of intermittent power production from renewables – no solar when it’s night, no wind power when it’s not windy,” Hasiuk said.

The KGS, working with Evergy and supported by a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, will study the economic risks and benefits of storing hydrogen in these underground salt caverns. The study will include using modern digital methods to map salt beds at potential sites.

“Right now, it’s unclear whether undertaking a project like this is feasible for energy companies,” Hasiuk said. “Our study will help reduce the uncertainties related to hydrogen storage. At the end of the study, we may find out the costs of underground storage are as risky as or more risky than thought, but we should certainly be more confident about just how risky it is.”

If the one-year project successfully demonstrates the viability of hydrogen storage, the partners will move to a second phase consisting of more advanced engineering and design of a storage system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642179715888.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Areas around Hutchinson could become the focal point for hydrogen storage as a way to store energy for future use. According to an article from the University of Kansas, the project at the Kansas Geological Survey may help address the challenge of intermittent production from renewable sources.The KGS, working with Evergy, will study the possibility of storing excess energy generated by coal-fired power plants in underground salt caverns for future use. The Hutchinson Salt Member covers about 37,000 square miles in the subsurface in central and south-central Kansas and reaches a maximum thickness of more than 500 feet. Thick salt layers also occur in western and southwestern Kansas and could be used to store the reserve energy.“Excess electricity can be used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen gas,” said Franek Hasiuk, KGS geologist and principal investigator for the project. “The hydrogen can then be stored in salt caverns for later use, either by burning it with natural gas in the power plant, adding it into pipeline natural gas for burning in home furnaces and stoves, supplying it to another business for use in chemical processes like fertilizer production, or using it to power vehicles.”Natural gas and coal-fired plants, once the mainstay of the power industry, were designed to be always-on power generators to meet consumers’ electricity needs. Now, however, electrical grid operators often buy power first from wind, solar and nuclear operations and turn to natural gas and coal plants during periods of peak demand or when supplies from renewable sources are low.This leads to periods when the plants are left idle, an inefficient and uneconomical use of resources. But a plant could be more economically viable if it could remain on and store any unneeded energy for future use.“Hydrogen storage could allow Evergy to store large amounts of energy to deal with the problem of intermittent power production from renewables – no solar when it’s night, no wind power when it’s not windy,” Hasiuk said.The KGS, working with Evergy and supported by a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, will study the economic risks and benefits of storing hydrogen in these underground salt caverns. The study will include using modern digital methods to map salt beds at potential sites.“Right now, it’s unclear whether undertaking a project like this is feasible for energy companies,” Hasiuk said. “Our study will help reduce the uncertainties related to hydrogen storage. At the end of the study, we may find out the costs of underground storage are as risky as or more risky than thought, but we should certainly be more confident about just how risky it is.”If the one-year project successfully demonstrates the viability of hydrogen storage, the partners will move to a second phase consisting of more advanced engineering and design of a storage system.<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.

KGS working on energy storage program

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A program for children ages 8-12 is being offered by the Dillon Nature Center to teach youth about exploring energy sources.

The Junior Naturalist program is being offered Friday, Feb. 4, for Hutchinson students and Friday, Feb. 11, for Buhler students. The program will allow participants to explore wind water and solar energy, and make small solar panels to take home. The day will also include outdoor activities and games.&nbsp;

The cost of the program is $50 and is limited to 12 participants. Registrations for Hutchinson students must be in by Feb. 1. The registration deadline for Buhler students is&nbsp;Feb. 8.

For more information, call the Dillon Nature Center at 620-663-7411.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634846254841.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A program for children ages 8-12 is being offered by the Dillon Nature Center to teach youth about exploring energy sources.The Junior Naturalist program is being offered Friday, Feb. 4, for Hutchinson students and Friday, Feb. 11, for Buhler students. The program will allow participants to explore wind water and solar energy, and make small solar panels to take home. The day will also include outdoor activities and games.&nbsp;The cost of the program is $50 and is limited to 12 participants. Registrations for Hutchinson students must be in by Feb. 1. The registration deadline for Buhler students is&nbsp;Feb. 8.For more information, call the Dillon Nature Center at 620-663-7411.<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.

Dillon Nature Center to offer Junior Naturalist program

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre will welcome the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis for two benefit concerts: Sunday, Jan. 16, and Monday, Jan. 17, at 8 p.m.&nbsp;

In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Fox is offering a special half-priced ticket promotion specifically for Monday evening's performance. The tickets are $45 and are available at the Fox Box Office (877) FOX-SHOW or online at <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35908/production/1047013">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>. Use the promo code "MLKDAY" upon checkout to receive the discount.&nbsp;

Ticket sales for both performances go to support Hutchinson's Historic Fox Theatre's Operation Fund.&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/2022/1/1642189869319.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fox Theatre will welcome the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis for two benefit concerts: Sunday, Jan. 16, and Monday, Jan. 17, at 8 p.m.&nbsp;In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Fox is offering a special half-priced ticket promotion specifically for Monday evening's performance. The tickets are $45 and are available at the Fox Box Office (877) FOX-SHOW or online at <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35908/production/1047013">www.hutchinsonfox.com</a>. Use the promo code "MLKDAY" upon checkout to receive the discount.&nbsp;Ticket sales for both performances go to support Hutchinson's Historic Fox Theatre's Operation Fund.&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;

Two special concerts to benefit the Fox Theatre

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson BrightHouse shelter is benefitting from the generosity of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas employees.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation donated a total of $264,479 to United Way campaigns in Hutchinson, Salina, Topeka and Wichita.&nbsp;

In Hutchinson, Salina and Wichita, employees and the BCBSKS Foundation raised $38,790.44 that will be divided among their respective local United Way organizations.&nbsp;

This year, employees were also able to participate in an in-person volunteer project to support domestic violence advocacy organizations across the state by packing more than 560 hygiene kits. A portion of those kits are also on the way to BrightHouse

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584722264783.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson BrightHouse shelter is benefitting from the generosity of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas employees.The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation donated a total of $264,479 to United Way campaigns in Hutchinson, Salina, Topeka and Wichita.&nbsp;In Hutchinson, Salina and Wichita, employees and the BCBSKS Foundation raised $38,790.44 that will be divided among their respective local United Way organizations.&nbsp;This year, employees were also able to participate in an in-person volunteer project to support domestic violence advocacy organizations across the state by packing more than 560 hygiene kits. A portion of those kits are also on the way to BrightHouse<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.

BrightHouse receives support from BCBSKS

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s back to the drawing board for the city and the union representing its service employees after <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/74cbbd86-e681-4394-ae47-fa5c46a4e030">the union’s voting delegation rejected the city’s latest contract offer</a>. City Manager Jeff Cantrell said he understands the current issues involved.

“Anytime you construct or negotiate a contract, nobody wants to give up a position,” Cantrell said. “Even if it’s not an issue, maybe it could become a future issue.”&nbsp;

Some of the issues the union had with the contract that came from union representative Esau Freeman included what constituted a break from a worksite, which both sides felt needed some clarification, and callback time to work under straight pay versus premium pay. Cantrell says there have been instances where an employee would wait for a short period of time before heading out to a job so that person would get paid premium time or overtime. Cantrell says the issue of overtime is one the city needs to have some control over.

“I believe the employer ought to have the discretion that if somebody has been plowing snow for three days without sleep, instead of going into mandatory overtime or the employee's option of&nbsp; calling for overtime to continue. I think the employer not only has the duty to make sure that safe operations are maintained and controlling the hours,” Cantrell said. “I think that discretion is appropriate. And if you look at the history of the city, I don’t know if we really have caused any issues in overstepping our bounds.”

The matter was to be on the agenda for Tuesday's city council meeting. Cantrell says the matter will probably stay on the agenda for discussion.

“I think we’ll probably leave it on the agenda for discussion with the governing body if for nothing else just to tell them where we’re at,” Cantrell said. “I don’t think we’re at an impasse, I think maybe both sides just need some additional time. I’ll probably explore the matter further with the labor representative and see what their thoughts are going forward.”

The service employees union represents about 125 city workers, mostly in Public Works and utilities.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409609109.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By ROD ZOOKHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — It’s back to the drawing board for the city and the union representing its service employees after <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/74cbbd86-e681-4394-ae47-fa5c46a4e030">the union’s voting delegation rejected the city’s latest contract offer</a>. City Manager Jeff Cantrell said he understands the current issues involved.“Anytime you construct or negotiate a contract, nobody wants to give up a position,” Cantrell said. “Even if it’s not an issue, maybe it could become a future issue.”&nbsp;Some of the issues the union had with the contract that came from union representative Esau Freeman included what constituted a break from a worksite, which both sides felt needed some clarification, and callback time to work under straight pay versus premium pay. Cantrell says there have been instances where an employee would wait for a short period of time before heading out to a job so that person would get paid premium time or overtime. Cantrell says the issue of overtime is one the city needs to have some control over.“I believe the employer ought to have the discretion that if somebody has been plowing snow for three days without sleep, instead of going into mandatory overtime or the employee's option of&nbsp; calling for overtime to continue. I think the employer not only has the duty to make sure that safe operations are maintained and controlling the hours,” Cantrell said. “I think that discretion is appropriate. And if you look at the history of the city, I don’t know if we really have caused any issues in overstepping our bounds.”The matter was to be on the agenda for Tuesday's city council meeting. Cantrell says the matter will probably stay on the agenda for discussion.“I think we’ll probably leave it on the agenda for discussion with the governing body if for nothing else just to tell them where we’re at,” Cantrell said. “I don’t think we’re at an impasse, I think maybe both sides just need some additional time. I’ll probably explore the matter further with the labor representative and see what their thoughts are going forward.”The service employees union represents about 125 city workers, mostly in Public Works and utilities.<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.

City manager talks about stalled contract with city employees

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will feature services and programs both Sunday and Monday in Hutchinson.

In the past, the celebration has included speakers from churches or organizations. But this year's celebration is taking a different angle, according to Hence Parson with Hutchinson Community&nbsp;College.

“Typically we have seniors talking about Dr. King, but this year we’re going to have young folks,” Parson said. “Some from high school, some from out of high school and some in college.”

Parson says they made this change this year because youth can have a far different perspective on the legacy of King.

“Many of those young folks were not around in 1968 when he was assassinated and probably have not heard much about him except what they have read,” Parson said. “We are excited to hear what they are going to say because, you know, generations change over time and what we perceive as being important to us might be totally different for those individuals who are younger than us.”

Activities begin Sunday at 3 p.m. with a service followed by a reception. Monday’s program begins at 2 p.m. Both services will be at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC Campus. Singers from Buhler and Hutchinson high schools, as well as Hutchinson Community College, will be on-hand.

After the service, the Cosmosphere will be hosting Dream with Steam with many fun and learning activities that are free for everyone. Those activities run from 4 p.m. until 6:15 p.m.

The afternoon will include a free screening of Dream Big in the Carey Digital Dome Theater. The award-winning documentary reveals the heart that drives engineers to create better lives for people.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579296800718.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The annual celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will feature services and programs both Sunday and Monday in Hutchinson.In the past, the celebration has included speakers from churches or organizations. But this year's celebration is taking a different angle, according to Hence Parson with Hutchinson Community&nbsp;College.“Typically we have seniors talking about Dr. King, but this year we’re going to have young folks,” Parson said. “Some from high school, some from out of high school and some in college.”Parson says they made this change this year because youth can have a far different perspective on the legacy of King.“Many of those young folks were not around in 1968 when he was assassinated and probably have not heard much about him except what they have read,” Parson said. “We are excited to hear what they are going to say because, you know, generations change over time and what we perceive as being important to us might be totally different for those individuals who are younger than us.”Activities begin Sunday at 3 p.m. with a service followed by a reception. Monday’s program begins at 2 p.m. Both services will be at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC Campus. Singers from Buhler and Hutchinson high schools, as well as Hutchinson Community College, will be on-hand.After the service, the Cosmosphere will be hosting Dream with Steam with many fun and learning activities that are free for everyone. Those activities run from 4 p.m. until 6:15 p.m.The afternoon will include a free screening of Dream Big in the Carey Digital Dome Theater. The award-winning documentary reveals the heart that drives engineers to create better lives for people.&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;

MLK celebration Sunday and Monday in Hutchinson

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will host the 2022 Legislative Forum again this year.

The first of the three forums is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 5, from 8:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center. All three events will also be live-streamed on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HutchChamber/">Hutch Chamber Facebook page</a>.

Legislators invited to participate are Sen. Mark Steffen and Reps. Joe Seiwert, Paul Waggoner, Jason Probst, and Michael Murphy. Written questions will be accepted that morning. Questions may also be submitted in advance at <a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum">hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum</a>.&nbsp;

The forum is presented by AT&amp;T with supporting sponsorship from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and organized by the Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee. There is no cost to attend the legislative forums. Members of the Chamber and the general public are encouraged to attend.

For more information concerning legislative forums, contact Chelsey Dawson at <a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a> or (620) 662-3391.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635351049170.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will host the 2022 Legislative Forum again this year.The first of the three forums is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 5, from 8:30 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center. All three events will also be live-streamed on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HutchChamber/">Hutch Chamber Facebook page</a>.Legislators invited to participate are Sen. Mark Steffen and Reps. Joe Seiwert, Paul Waggoner, Jason Probst, and Michael Murphy. Written questions will be accepted that morning. Questions may also be submitted in advance at <a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum">hutchchamber.com/advocacy/legislativeforum</a>.&nbsp;The forum is presented by AT&amp;T with supporting sponsorship from Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and organized by the Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee. There is no cost to attend the legislative forums. Members of the Chamber and the general public are encouraged to attend.For more information concerning legislative forums, contact Chelsey Dawson at <a href="mailto:chelseyd@hutchchamber.com">chelseyd@hutchchamber.com</a> or (620) 662-3391.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

Chamber legislative forums begin Feb. 5.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Clinic announced Thursday that Dr. Dustin Harker has joined the clinic’s neurology team.&nbsp;

Dr. Harker completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University in Utah, medical school at the Medical University of Ohio and residency at the University of Utah in 2010. Since then, Dr. Harker has served as an ABPN Certified Neurologist in Utah, Minnesota, and Colorado.&nbsp;

Hutchinson Clinic has continued to grow its team in response to the increasing need of the community. In 2021 alone, Hutch Clinic welcomed six physicians, which included more recently Dr. Susan Heasley, who is extending the availability of Family Medicine to Cheney.&nbsp;

“We’ve been fortunate and honored this year with the addition of exceptional physicians to meet our community’s needs and I’m grateful for the caliber of talent that we have welcomed,” Mike Heck, CEO of Hutch Clinic, said. “Dr. Harker’s deep experience in neurology and commitment to educating patients will make him an asset to the clinic and the larger community.”&nbsp;

Dr. Harker is accepting new patients beginning Jan. 31. For scheduling needs or general questions, please call 620-669-2500 or visit <a href="http://HutchClinic.com">HutchClinic.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642111421306.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Clinic announced Thursday that Dr. Dustin Harker has joined the clinic’s neurology team.&nbsp;Dr. Harker completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University in Utah, medical school at the Medical University of Ohio and residency at the University of Utah in 2010. Since then, Dr. Harker has served as an ABPN Certified Neurologist in Utah, Minnesota, and Colorado.&nbsp;Hutchinson Clinic has continued to grow its team in response to the increasing need of the community. In 2021 alone, Hutch Clinic welcomed six physicians, which included more recently Dr. Susan Heasley, who is extending the availability of Family Medicine to Cheney.&nbsp;“We’ve been fortunate and honored this year with the addition of exceptional physicians to meet our community’s needs and I’m grateful for the caliber of talent that we have welcomed,” Mike Heck, CEO of Hutch Clinic, said. “Dr. Harker’s deep experience in neurology and commitment to educating patients will make him an asset to the clinic and the larger community.”&nbsp;Dr. Harker is accepting new patients beginning Jan. 31. For scheduling needs or general questions, please call 620-669-2500 or visit <a href="http://HutchClinic.com">HutchClinic.com</a>.&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.

Hutchinson Clinic brings new doctor to Neurology Department

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark and Phoebe Davenport have worked to make a big impact on several of Hutchinson's older buildings.&nbsp;

Now, the public will be able to hear more from the Davenports during Monday’s Rotary Club meeting. The meeting is at noon at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.

The Davenports are real estate developers with a passion for renovating historic buildings and improving property management.&nbsp;

They began investing in Hutchinson in the summer of 2020 with the renovation of the Plaza Towers and have announced a major renovation of the Hoke Building. Last week, they announced they have purchased the Landmark and plan to do the same to the empty building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642110756871.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark and Phoebe Davenport have worked to make a big impact on several of Hutchinson's older buildings.&nbsp;Now, the public will be able to hear more from the Davenports during Monday’s Rotary Club meeting. The meeting is at noon at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.The Davenports are real estate developers with a passion for renovating historic buildings and improving property management.&nbsp;They began investing in Hutchinson in the summer of 2020 with the renovation of the Plaza Towers and have announced a major renovation of the Hoke Building. Last week, they announced they have purchased the Landmark and plan to do the same to the empty building.<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.

Mark and Phoebe Davenport will speak at Rotary meeting

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will honor outstanding businesses, organizations, and community members at its first-ever Chamber Awards Night on Thursday, March 3, at the Crystal Ballroom at The Burt.

Nominations for the Rising Star Award and the Minority/Women-Owned Business Award are being accepted now. Additional awards that will be given away include the 2021 Small Business of the Year, the Legacy Award, Ambassador of the Year Award, as well as a special Double Dare promotion presented by StartUp Hutch. Nominations must be in by Feb. 4.

For more information on the event, including sponsorship opportunities, contact the Chamber at 620-662-3391 and ask for Marcy Kauffman or email her at <a href="mailto:marcyk@hutchchamber.com">marcyk@hutchchamber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642110015500.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce will honor outstanding businesses, organizations, and community members at its first-ever Chamber Awards Night on Thursday, March 3, at the Crystal Ballroom at The Burt.Nominations for the Rising Star Award and the Minority/Women-Owned Business Award are being accepted now. Additional awards that will be given away include the 2021 Small Business of the Year, the Legacy Award, Ambassador of the Year Award, as well as a special Double Dare promotion presented by StartUp Hutch. Nominations must be in by Feb. 4.For more information on the event, including sponsorship opportunities, contact the Chamber at 620-662-3391 and ask for Marcy Kauffman or email her at <a href="mailto:marcyk@hutchchamber.com">marcyk@hutchchamber.com</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;

Chamber to hold special awards night

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann, along with 27 colleagues, sent a letter to the Biden administration urging it to hold India accountable under the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, particularly regarding wheat and rice production.

The letter encourages United States Trade Rep. Katherine Tai and United States Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to initiate the WTO litigation process.

&nbsp;"This significant showing of bicameral support for the Administration to initiate a WTO case against India has been years in the making,” Betsy Ward, President &amp; CEO of USA Rice, said. “If left unchecked, the Indian export market will continue to grow at an uncontrollable rate and threaten the viability of rice and wheat producers throughout the world.”

Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) and 17 of his Senate colleagues sent a similar letter. The effort is supported by the National Association of Wheat Growers and USA Rice.

The legislators say that Indian policies cost U.S. wheat farmers more than $500 million annually, according to Justin Knopf, President of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637681449641.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — First District Congressman Tracey Mann, along with 27 colleagues, sent a letter to the Biden administration urging it to hold India accountable under the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, particularly regarding wheat and rice production.The letter encourages United States Trade Rep. Katherine Tai and United States Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to initiate the WTO litigation process.&nbsp;"This significant showing of bicameral support for the Administration to initiate a WTO case against India has been years in the making,” Betsy Ward, President &amp; CEO of USA Rice, said. “If left unchecked, the Indian export market will continue to grow at an uncontrollable rate and threaten the viability of rice and wheat producers throughout the world.”Sen. John Boozman (R-AR) and 17 of his Senate colleagues sent a similar letter. The effort is supported by the National Association of Wheat Growers and USA Rice.The legislators say that Indian policies cost U.S. wheat farmers more than $500 million annually, according to Justin Knopf, President of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers.&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;

Mann pushes for fair trade practices from India

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson city service employees have soundly rejected the latest contract proposal from the city. 

A vote of the employees on Thursday afternoon saw 95% of the Service Employees International Union members reject the contract. 

Esau Freeman of the local union says that the city's use of flexible scheduling to avoid overtime pay was one of the major sticking points, along with callback times for employees. Freeman also said that workers did not like the article that allows the city to call back workers on straight time instead of premium time for up to two hours after the work day is over. The city also wants employees to report within 30 minutes of being called out. 

Freeman says, while the union represents many different employees in the city, it really centered around Public Works and the water and sewer departments where employees can put in significant overtime if called out for winter weather or interruptions in service.

After the city council discussed the contract two weeks ago, City Manager Jeff Cantrell noted that the two sides had met and seemed to cover some ground. However, the employees still rejected the offer and Freeman says the city is not bargaining in good faith.

The SEIU covers about 125 city employees, which is about 1/4 of the city's workforce, and includes Public Works, parks and other service positions. The contract is on the agenda for discussion and action by the Hutchinson City Council during Tuesday's 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&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592409584284.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson city service employees have soundly rejected the latest contract proposal from the city. A vote of the employees on Thursday afternoon saw 95% of the Service Employees International Union members reject the contract. Esau Freeman of the local union says that the city's use of flexible scheduling to avoid overtime pay was one of the major sticking points, along with callback times for employees. Freeman also said that workers did not like the article that allows the city to call back workers on straight time instead of premium time for up to two hours after the work day is over. The city also wants employees to report within 30 minutes of being called out. Freeman says, while the union represents many different employees in the city, it really centered around Public Works and the water and sewer departments where employees can put in significant overtime if called out for winter weather or interruptions in service.After the city council discussed the contract two weeks ago, City Manager Jeff Cantrell noted that the two sides had met and seemed to cover some ground. However, the employees still rejected the offer and Freeman says the city is not bargaining in good faith.The SEIU covers about 125 city employees, which is about 1/4 of the city's workforce, and includes Public Works, parks and other service positions. The contract is on the agenda for discussion and action by the Hutchinson City Council during Tuesday's 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&nbsp;sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

City service employees soundly reject city's contract offer

LANGDON, Kan. — A sharp increase in quarantines and positive COVID cases has forced Fairfield USD 310 to close effective tomorrow. All activities for Friday as well as next week are canceled.&nbsp;

Superintendent Betsy McKinney says the positive cases are among both the students and staff.

“We have 20% of our student body out, affected by COVID, with positive or in quarantine,” McKinney said. “We also have 39% of our teachers and paraprofessionals gone as of today (Thursday).”

Students will be in remote learning starting Tuesday and running through Friday. McKinney says they are prepared for students to learn from home.

“We have the capability to do that,” McKinney said. “We are preparing our students by sending home devices today and then having a materials pick-up on Monday for the younger students.”

Teachers who are not sick or quarantined will be working from campus. Fairfield will release more details about everything on Monday and provide parents with pick-up times for school work. Older students will take home devices Thursday. Students may also take home workbooks and textbooks they could need next week.

Student meals will be available for pick-up during next week’s four days of remote learning. Those needing meals should contact Jaqui Conrad at <a href="mailto:jconrad@usd310.org">jconrad@usd310.org</a> or call the kitchen at 620-596-2007. Orders for meals must be placed before Monday at 2 p.m.&nbsp;

Meals may be picked up Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. until noon. Family members can pick up student meals without the students being present. Meals will not be available Friday or Monday since school is not in session.

For students in the Sylvia area needing internet services for next week's remote learning, the Pleasant Hill Church of the Nazarene will be providing free Wi-Fi service to do schoolwork. Please contact FES Music Teacher James Davis for more information at <a href="mailto:jdavis@usd310.org">jdavis@usd310.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595965876065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LANGDON, Kan. — A sharp increase in quarantines and positive COVID cases has forced Fairfield USD 310 to close effective tomorrow. All activities for Friday as well as next week are canceled.&nbsp;Superintendent Betsy McKinney says the positive cases are among both the students and staff.“We have 20% of our student body out, affected by COVID, with positive or in quarantine,” McKinney said. “We also have 39% of our teachers and paraprofessionals gone as of today (Thursday).”Students will be in remote learning starting Tuesday and running through Friday. McKinney says they are prepared for students to learn from home.“We have the capability to do that,” McKinney said. “We are preparing our students by sending home devices today and then having a materials pick-up on Monday for the younger students.”Teachers who are not sick or quarantined will be working from campus. Fairfield will release more details about everything on Monday and provide parents with pick-up times for school work. Older students will take home devices Thursday. Students may also take home workbooks and textbooks they could need next week.Student meals will be available for pick-up during next week’s four days of remote learning. Those needing meals should contact Jaqui Conrad at <a href="mailto:jconrad@usd310.org">jconrad@usd310.org</a> or call the kitchen at 620-596-2007. Orders for meals must be placed before Monday at 2 p.m.&nbsp;Meals may be picked up Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. until noon. Family members can pick up student meals without the students being present. Meals will not be available Friday or Monday since school is not in session.For students in the Sylvia area needing internet services for next week's remote learning, the Pleasant Hill Church of the Nazarene will be providing free Wi-Fi service to do schoolwork. Please contact FES Music Teacher James Davis for more information at <a href="mailto:jdavis@usd310.org">jdavis@usd310.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;

USD 310 Fairfield goes to remote learning starting Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Roger LLC, an independent digital technology solution for the dry bulk freight industry, announced Wednesday that it has formed a strategic integration partnership with AgTrax of Hutchinson.

Under the partnership, Roger and AgTrax will integrate their digital solutions to allow mutual agribusiness customers access to their data platforms. The flow of information between systems will digitize older manual business processes and streamline business operations.

Roger LLC develops digital tools to help shippers and carriers operate their bulk freight networks by digitizing the entire shipping process, including scheduling, finding freight counterparties, dispatching, tracking, payment, and transportation compliance and risk management.&nbsp;

AgTrax, who recently relocated to the downtown area, develops Grain Accounting systems, with integrated software programs and complete systems designed specifically for grain elevators, fertilizer companies, cooperatives, ethanol production facilities, feed stores, agronomy service providers, petroleum providers and other types of businesses in agriculture.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642089232641.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Roger LLC, an independent digital technology solution for the dry bulk freight industry, announced Wednesday that it has formed a strategic integration partnership with AgTrax of Hutchinson.Under the partnership, Roger and AgTrax will integrate their digital solutions to allow mutual agribusiness customers access to their data platforms. The flow of information between systems will digitize older manual business processes and streamline business operations.Roger LLC develops digital tools to help shippers and carriers operate their bulk freight networks by digitizing the entire shipping process, including scheduling, finding freight counterparties, dispatching, tracking, payment, and transportation compliance and risk management.&nbsp;AgTrax, who recently relocated to the downtown area, develops Grain Accounting systems, with integrated software programs and complete systems designed specifically for grain elevators, fertilizer companies, cooperatives, ethanol production facilities, feed stores, agronomy service providers, petroleum providers and other types of businesses in agriculture.&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.

AgTrax enters into partnership with ag shipping software company

We love our teachers, and we know you do too!&nbsp; So nominate your favorite today for Teacher of the Month from Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. We'll announce a random winner on the final Friday of each month to win a gift basket form Allen Samuels and area businesses.&nbsp; And the person who nominated the winning teacher will win a free pizza from The Pizza Ranch!

Our December Teacher of the Month is Angie Williams, who teaches 4th grade at Graber Elementary.&nbsp; Ms. Williams has been teaching for 26 years, and says that "getting to know the kids as individuals and their families is one of the rewarding parts of the job." As our winner, she receives a gift basket courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/allensamuelshutch/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Hutchinson</a>, and her nominator wins a pizza from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchHutchinsonKS/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Pizza Ranch</a>!&nbsp;Read her story <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2e291086-46ca-4238-9736-af4f43664c81">HERE</a>.

&nbsp; Congratulations to Plum Creek Elementary 2nd grade teacher Morgan Starkweather, our November Teacher of the Month from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/allensamuelshutch/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Hutchinson</a>!&nbsp; &nbsp;Here nominator wrote: "Mrs. Starkweather has been by far the most amazing teacher my daughter has had. She has so much patience and love for the kids. Mrs. Starkweather has put her whole heart into these kids and she deserves it."&nbsp;

Her nominator wins a pizza from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchHutchinsonKS/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Pizza Ranch</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; Read her story <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/e852ffef-a867-4679-9647-8d71a085c903">HERE.</a>

Congratulations to Mrs. Mackenzie Lutz of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TrinityCeltics/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Trinity Catholic Jr/Sr High School</a>, our October Teacher of the Month from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allensamuelshutch/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Hutchinson</a>! Her nominator said: "She goes beyond her role as a teacher, not only does she help make sure we actually understand what we’re learning on and works with us, she cares about us individually." Her nominator wins a pizza from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchHutchinsonKS/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Pizza Ranch</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Read her story&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/ff24f124-76d5-4e51-b9e5-305c07620bb7">HERE</a>

We love our teachers, and we know you do too!&nbsp; So nominate your favorite today for Teacher of the Month from Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. We'll announce a random winner on the final Friday of each month to win a gift basket form Allen Samuels and area businesses.&nbsp; And the person who nominated the winning teacher will win a free pizza from The Pizza Ranch!<div>  <script src="https://embed-841252.secondstreetapp.com/Scripts/dist/embed.js" data-ss-embed="promotion" data-opguid="4ffcbb46-7a61-4a11-91dd-23a35f2c7261" data-routing="hash">/**/</script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642005944879.jpeg" alt="Our December Teacher of the Month receives a gift basket from Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Pictured L-R: Cris Schul from Allen Samuels, Mrs. Williams and Eagle's Ashley Weve." />
 <figcaption>Our December Teacher of the Month receives a gift basket from Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Pictured L-R: Cris Schul from Allen Samuels, Mrs. Williams and Eagle's Ashley Weve.</figcaption>
 </figure>Our December Teacher of the Month is Angie Williams, who teaches 4th grade at Graber Elementary.&nbsp; Ms. Williams has been teaching for 26 years, and says that "getting to know the kids as individuals and their families is one of the rewarding parts of the job." As our winner, she receives a gift basket courtesy of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/allensamuelshutch/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Hutchinson</a>, and her nominator wins a pizza from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchHutchinsonKS/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Pizza Ranch</a>!&nbsp;Read her story <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2e291086-46ca-4238-9736-af4f43664c81">HERE</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638457963155.jpeg" alt="Plum Creek Elementary 2nd grade teacher Morgan Starkweather is our November Teacher of the Month, and receives a gift basket from Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge!" />
 <figcaption>Plum Creek Elementary 2nd grade teacher Morgan Starkweather is our November Teacher of the Month, and receives a gift basket from Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge!</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Congratulations to Plum Creek Elementary 2nd grade teacher Morgan Starkweather, our November Teacher of the Month from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/allensamuelshutch/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Hutchinson</a>!&nbsp; &nbsp;Here nominator wrote: "Mrs. Starkweather has been by far the most amazing teacher my daughter has had. She has so much patience and love for the kids. Mrs. Starkweather has put her whole heart into these kids and she deserves it."&nbsp;

Her nominator wins a pizza from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchHutchinsonKS/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Pizza Ranch</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; Read her story <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/e852ffef-a867-4679-9647-8d71a085c903">HERE.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636132595737.jpeg" alt="Our October Teacher of the Month receives a gift basket&nbsp; from Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Pictured L-R: Cris Schul from Allen Samuels, Mrs. Lutz and Eagle's Ashley Weve." />
 <figcaption>Our October Teacher of the Month receives a gift basket&nbsp; from Allen Samuels Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Pictured L-R: Cris Schul from Allen Samuels, Mrs. Lutz and Eagle's Ashley Weve.</figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Mrs. Mackenzie Lutz of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TrinityCeltics/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Trinity Catholic Jr/Sr High School</a>, our October Teacher of the Month from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allensamuelshutch/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram of Hutchinson</a>! Her nominator said: "She goes beyond her role as a teacher, not only does she help make sure we actually understand what we’re learning on and works with us, she cares about us individually." Her nominator wins a pizza from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchHutchinsonKS/?__cft__[0]=AZUjFQNsQu3ptNPLCieU0B02XY03ugLf5OXhnqI_4ZeHe0lgrClxcbiUo0RFrizx4CZJ0mz1XtHtJQNZM2Jv8EKcrUpV4BztSKh5dqog18jayRCTznWAzV3Erm2Drp8izlVjg9VImldpDt4j0uLgnMQ8P-pFw4iKHemx9y-pnjrV8sRJmT5wlb-jThCl2NBEv36cm2p8QK1L0MlkAxE87OcQmeUtzmTOJt65ckBrBFV8Iw&amp;__tn__=kK-y-R">Pizza Ranch</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Read her story&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/ff24f124-76d5-4e51-b9e5-305c07620bb7">HERE</a>

Teacher of the Month Presented by Allen Samuels CDJR

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County has been named a 2021 HHCAHPS Honors recipient by HEALTHCAREfirst, a provider of web-based home health and hospice software, billing and coding services, CAHPS surveys and advanced analytics.&nbsp;

The annual review recognizes agencies that continuously provide a positive patient experience and high-quality care as measured from the patient’s point of view.&nbsp;

Darla Wilson, Chief Administrative Officer of Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County, credits her team with providing compassionate quality care for patients and caregivers as well as focusing on a team approach.&nbsp;

“Being named as a 2021 Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and System Honor Agency is truly an amazing honor,” Wilson said. “All of our scores were better than 85% of other home health agencies in the nation. This means so much to our agency staff, as their desire is to provide the most excellent care possible! We set our company standards high.”

HHCAHPS Honors recipients include agencies scoring above the HEALTHCAREfirst National Average on at least 85% of the evaluated questions. Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County is the only area agency to achieve this status.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642088709996.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County has been named a 2021 HHCAHPS Honors recipient by HEALTHCAREfirst, a provider of web-based home health and hospice software, billing and coding services, CAHPS surveys and advanced analytics.&nbsp;The annual review recognizes agencies that continuously provide a positive patient experience and high-quality care as measured from the patient’s point of view.&nbsp;Darla Wilson, Chief Administrative Officer of Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County, credits her team with providing compassionate quality care for patients and caregivers as well as focusing on a team approach.&nbsp;“Being named as a 2021 Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and System Honor Agency is truly an amazing honor,” Wilson said. “All of our scores were better than 85% of other home health agencies in the nation. This means so much to our agency staff, as their desire is to provide the most excellent care possible! We set our company standards high.”HHCAHPS Honors recipients include agencies scoring above the HEALTHCAREfirst National Average on at least 85% of the evaluated questions. Hospice &amp; Homecare of Reno County is the only area agency to achieve this status.<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.

Hospice recognized for service to patients

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of current active cases of COVID has jumped above 1,000 for the first time in over a year.

As of Thursday morning, the number of active cases stands at 1,016. The last time the active case count was that high was Dec. 3 of 2020 when the count was 1,130. The active case count has increased by 774 cases since Jan. 3.

The total number of cases for the county since the pandemic began increased by 1,331 since Jan. 3 to 14,448.

Eighteen county residents are hospitalized at this time and the death toll now stands at 193.

The vaccination rate did climb over the past couple of days to 52.9% or 33,083 county residents.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639341015562.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The number of current active cases of COVID has jumped above 1,000 for the first time in over a year.As of Thursday morning, the number of active cases stands at 1,016. The last time the active case count was that high was Dec. 3 of 2020 when the count was 1,130. The active case count has increased by 774 cases since Jan. 3.The total number of cases for the county since the pandemic began increased by 1,331 since Jan. 3 to 14,448.Eighteen county residents are hospitalized at this time and the death toll now stands at 193.The vaccination rate did climb over the past couple of days to 52.9% or 33,083 county residents.<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;

Active COVID cases jump above 1,000 in Reno County

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has given her stamp of approval for the Reno County Commission to expand from three members to five. The public approved the expansion in the last election.

The additional commissioners could have been elected via special election, however, the commissioners requested it take place at the next regularly-scheduled general election in order to eliminate additional expense. With the expansion of the board, commissioners approved a resolution setting the 2023 commission wages at $10,800 per commissioner, which is down from $18,000.

The filing deadline for commission seats is June 1, 2022, at noon. Candidates can file at the Election Office located in the Reno County Annex, 125 W. 1st. Reno County. To view the current district maps, visit <a href="https://arcg.is/09K9ub">https://arcg.is/09K9ub</a>.&nbsp;

Commissioners will vote on whether to approve the final district map with updated 2020 census figures at the Jan. 25 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/2021/12/1640603109912.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly has given her stamp of approval for the Reno County Commission to expand from three members to five. The public approved the expansion in the last election.The additional commissioners could have been elected via special election, however, the commissioners requested it take place at the next regularly-scheduled general election in order to eliminate additional expense. With the expansion of the board, commissioners approved a resolution setting the 2023 commission wages at $10,800 per commissioner, which is down from $18,000.The filing deadline for commission seats is June 1, 2022, at noon. Candidates can file at the Election Office located in the Reno County Annex, 125 W. 1st. Reno County. To view the current district maps, visit <a href="https://arcg.is/09K9ub">https://arcg.is/09K9ub</a>.&nbsp;Commissioners will vote on whether to approve the final district map with updated 2020 census figures at the Jan. 25 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.

Governor gives approval to county commission expansion


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson firefighters still have the section of 30th west of Mayfield to Cedar Ridge left to do for wildfire mitigation on Thursday. 

Starting at noon, 30th Avenue will be closed from Obee to Mayfield. 

Motorists can go around the mile section to the south. 30th should be clear by 2 p.m.

Units will then move to East 4th at Willison. Firefighters will be burning both sides of 4th back to the west a 1/4 mile. 4th Avenue will be closed between Buhler Road and Kent Road during that burning. Motorists can utilize Ave G to get around the closed section. 

The plan is to be finished with that section by 3:30 p.m. Thursday. 

Units will then work Willison from 4th to 17th and 17th back to the west of Willison.

HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Hutchinson firefighters still have the section of 30th west of Mayfield to Cedar Ridge left to do for wildfire mitigation on Thursday. Starting at noon, 30th Avenue will be closed from Obee to Mayfield. Motorists can go around the mile section to the south. 30th should be clear by 2 p.m.Units will then move to East 4th at Willison. Firefighters will be burning both sides of 4th back to the west a 1/4 mile. 4th Avenue will be closed between Buhler Road and Kent Road during that burning. Motorists can utilize Ave G to get around the closed section. The plan is to be finished with that section by 3:30 p.m. Thursday. Units will then work Willison from 4th to 17th and 17th back to the west of Willison.

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