HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Hutchinson Human Relations Officer J.K. Vann updated Hutch Post on the schedule of events for the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. observance.

There will now be&nbsp;a Kids Movie Night on Friday, Jan. 17 during the Money Mastery 101 event presented by HutchCC, the City of Hutchinson Human Relations Office and the NAACP. Money Mastery 101 starts at 6 p.m.

The vendor opportunities remain on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 11 a.m.

The beginning of the Sunday, Jan. 19 community celebration has been moved up to 2 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 20 has the Unity Project, which will begin at 10 a.m.

If you have questions or want to become a vendor for the Jan. 18 fair, call Vann at the Human Relations Office at (620) 694-2608.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734133527722.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Hutchinson Human Relations Officer J.K. Vann updated Hutch Post on the schedule of events for the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. observance.There will now be&nbsp;a Kids Movie Night on Friday, Jan. 17 during the Money Mastery 101 event presented by HutchCC, the City of Hutchinson Human Relations Office and the NAACP. Money Mastery 101 starts at 6 p.m.The vendor opportunities remain on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 11 a.m.The beginning of the Sunday, Jan. 19 community celebration has been moved up to 2 p.m.Monday, Jan. 20 has the Unity Project, which will begin at 10 a.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734133603353.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>If you have questions or want to become a vendor for the Jan. 18 fair, call Vann at the Human Relations Office at (620) 694-2608.

MLK Jr. events schedule changes

Anna Brown, MHEP, MBA, VP of Medical Affairs, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center

As a leader within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, I want to emphasize how vital the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program is for communities like ours in central Kansas. It’s an important safety net that helps us ensure everyone has access to affordable medications and other services.

The 340B Program enables us to provide outpatient medications at significantly reduced prices so that we can stretch scarce resources. The resulting savings fund essential services and treatments for our most vulnerable patients. Beyond making prescriptions more affordable for senior citizens and low-income families, this program is crucial for delivering necessary treatment and related services for the uninsured. Most recognizably, it has been instrumental in keeping diabetic care, such as insulin, affordable for average Kansans.

I am also a parent of a child with Type 1 Diabetes, so I know personally how important access to insulin and glucose monitoring technology is to controlling the disease. This directly impacts the health and happiness of both patients and their families. Navigating the systems of&nbsp;pharmaceutical benefits, deductibles, copays, rebates and assistance programs can be challenging&nbsp;and often involves the entire care team. At a recent dinner with local physicians, a pharmacist and&nbsp;a mental health provider, they shared their frustrations with these complexities and the amount&nbsp;of time that is needed after a visit to ensure that a patient can actually get the medications that have been prescribed to them.

Savings from the 340B Program are reinvested into our health system to improve patient care, retain services and fund community health initiatives. Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has recently implemented a Nurse Navigator program to follow up with patients after a hospital stay and access to medication is often the greatest need. Reducing prices of prescriptions increases patient compliance with treatment regimens and reduces hospital readmissions.

Earlier this year, Kansas lawmakers recognized the importance of the 340B Program and its&nbsp;benefits to Kansans and health care providers by passing legislation that prohibits drug manufacturers from limiting contract pharmacy arrangements. I encourage all readers to contact our state legislators and voice their continued support for the continuation of a healthy and robust 340B Program.

About the Author: Anna Brown works as the Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, a part of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. HRHS serves south-central Kansas with a 190-bed hospital; mental health, outpatient, hospice and homecare services and durable medical equipment. Anna lives in western Reno County and her work involves the Medical Staff, Patient Relations, Risk Management and Infection Prevention.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1572037176389.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Anna Brown, MHEP, MBA, VP of Medical Affairs, Hutchinson Regional Medical CenterAs a leader within Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, I want to emphasize how vital the federal 340B Drug Pricing Program is for communities like ours in central Kansas. It’s an important safety net that helps us ensure everyone has access to affordable medications and other services.The 340B Program enables us to provide outpatient medications at significantly reduced prices so that we can stretch scarce resources. The resulting savings fund essential services and treatments for our most vulnerable patients. Beyond making prescriptions more affordable for senior citizens and low-income families, this program is crucial for delivering necessary treatment and related services for the uninsured. Most recognizably, it has been instrumental in keeping diabetic care, such as insulin, affordable for average Kansans.I am also a parent of a child with Type 1 Diabetes, so I know personally how important access to insulin and glucose monitoring technology is to controlling the disease. This directly impacts the health and happiness of both patients and their families. Navigating the systems of&nbsp;pharmaceutical benefits, deductibles, copays, rebates and assistance programs can be challenging&nbsp;and often involves the entire care team. At a recent dinner with local physicians, a pharmacist and&nbsp;a mental health provider, they shared their frustrations with these complexities and the amount&nbsp;of time that is needed after a visit to ensure that a patient can actually get the medications that have been prescribed to them.Savings from the 340B Program are reinvested into our health system to improve patient care, retain services and fund community health initiatives. Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has recently implemented a Nurse Navigator program to follow up with patients after a hospital stay and access to medication is often the greatest need. Reducing prices of prescriptions increases patient compliance with treatment regimens and reduces hospital readmissions.Earlier this year, Kansas lawmakers recognized the importance of the 340B Program and its&nbsp;benefits to Kansans and health care providers by passing legislation that prohibits drug manufacturers from limiting contract pharmacy arrangements. I encourage all readers to contact our state legislators and voice their continued support for the continuation of a healthy and robust 340B Program.About the Author: Anna Brown works as the Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, a part of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. HRHS serves south-central Kansas with a 190-bed hospital; mental health, outpatient, hospice and homecare services and durable medical equipment. Anna lives in western Reno County and her work involves the Medical Staff, Patient Relations, Risk Management and Infection Prevention.

Healthcare VP supports 340B program

It’s been my privilege to serve as mayor of Newton in 2024, a year when our community has made tremendous progress toward our goals.

Here is a just a sample of the great things happening this year:

As you can see, Newton is on a very strong path. In the past several years, City Commissioners and staff have put intentional focus on long-term planning, and we’ve been blessed to build a culture that allows the community to thrive. Our City Commission adopted a new&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.newtonkansas.com%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F16954%2F638640124474230000/1/01000193dfeb771d-6b8f72bf-65f2-41a1-859f-73c0ecc3e208-000000/0Y9idVrmEzn0nAQQzmQedl2nMaMDvouInRMJmhDxduo=384" target="_blank">strategic plan</a>&nbsp;this year, and I’m excited for all we can achieve together.

We are blessed to work together as a team that deeply cares about our community. I’ve never worked with a group that works harder or cares more about the people they represent. It’s not easy, but we love what we do. Thank you for allowing us to serve.

Newton is headed in the right direction. I would invite my fellow Newtonians to join us in helping build up our community. Let’s all focus on the good things happening and how each of us can make a positive difference. Consider how you can volunteer your talents for a local nonprofit, service club, or advisory board; be a positive voice for Newton on social media; and don’t forget to make your voice heard in our local elections.

Thank you again for the opportunity to represent you this past year as your mayor and in the future as a City Commissioner. I wish you all a very happy holiday season.

Rod Kreie has served as a Newton City Commissioner since 2018. He can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rkreie@newtonkansas.com" target="_blank">rkreie@newtonkansas.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734629490673.jpeg" alt="Newton Mayor Rod Kreie" />
 <figcaption>Newton Mayor Rod Kreie</figcaption>
 </figure>Outgoing Newton Mayor Rod KreieIt’s been my privilege to serve as mayor of Newton in 2024, a year when our community has made tremendous progress toward our goals.Here is a just a sample of the great things happening this year:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGAFRoofing%3F__cft__%255b0%255d=AZVe2QD9NO9KVP9X6vjfCOAJ0-rkmqEeqibm3ua6bUVY6EOFPbktp_TPe-err-DXet9X5qR17NLGzDUzSGYLWkxp_hoU_qWEGHYnIA7Zaq6wrwGVDbRA0BzqangWDVE6lsBb9ITO1m0o3gArXyKgkIL6Zj4cuvT_jZodIozXL5b2jI-ij7xnbm0MA4IcS_im20Q%26__tn__=-%255dK-R/1/01000193dfeb771d-6b8f72bf-65f2-41a1-859f-73c0ecc3e208-000000/qbZRutIsvNPq1LoFbQ8PjKkUjeZWvDFJWAUdwEYqypM=384" target="_blank">GAF</a>&nbsp;Materials broke ground on its $350 million development in the Logistics Park, the largest capital investment in the Wichita region in the past five years. This development and all the additional development it will generate are going to be historic for our community.</li><li>Trailer manufacturer Hillsboro Industries also began construction on its planned 56,000-square-foot manufacturing facility on East First Street between Spencer and Hillside, with a planned $11 million investment and approximately 50 full-time jobs.</li><li>We’ve also seen exciting growth among our existing local companies, including CD Custom Enterprises, Prairy Market &amp; Deli, ComfortCare Homes, Central Kansas Community Foundation, Hope Women’s Center, Grace Hill Winery and more.</li><li>We’ve welcomed many new local businesses this year, including On Fire Bar &amp; Grill, The Glassman, Gambino’s Pizza, Angel Wings Learning Center, Catrina’s Mexican Restaurant, Abarrotes Min Mexican Market, Burger Garage and others.</li><li>Housing development continues to boom, with 600-800 new housing units built or in the planning stages. In 2024 alone, we’ve had 109 new housing starts, a mix of 13 single-family homes, 58 duplex units, 27 triplexes, and 11 apartments. Our strategic work to alleviate our housing shortage is paying dividends in bringing in high quality new builds that will serve existing and new residents.</li><li>In April, we opened our new state-of-the-art Newton Public Library. The new library has far exceeded expectations as a modern and attractive community space, and usage has increased tremendously, both in terms of community events and checkouts. I’ve been proud to show off the library to our guests to Newton in the past year – not many cities can boast a library as impressive as ours.</li><li>Although not a City project, the All Together Now campaign inspired the whole community with its inclusive playground project at Slate Creek Elementary. I was privileged to participate in the fundraising as a member of the Asbury Park Foundation and Newton Rotary Club. The story of that playground will become part of the history of our town – the kids of Slate Creek saw that it wasn’t fair that all their friends couldn’t play together, and they went to work to solve the problem. If you haven’t yet been out to check out the new playground, you should. The City is so proud of the volunteers, donors, school staff and kids who made this amazing project happen.</li><li>We’ve seen another group of community volunteers come forward with plans to improve Themian Park with a public/private partnership. The Railer Foundation is working with the City, the school district and the Rec Commission to create a plan and a fundraising campaign that will transform Newton’s oldest park into an incredible space for the neighborhood, Santa Fe school, and the whole community. I encourage you to donate or find out how you can volunteer to help support the cause.</li><li>In July, Newton and Sand Creek Station Golf Course hosted the USGA’s 3rd U.S. Adaptive Open. This championship for disabled players is a national event on the level of the U.S. Open, and it was a tremendous opportunity to show off our first-class golf course and our whole community on a national scale. In fact, the event brought more than 2,000 visitors to Newton, and news media and social media coverage garnered more than 1.02 billion views. The personal stories of the players were incredible, and it was an honor for Newton to be part of their journeys. We’re hopeful the USGA will consider us to host again in the future.</li><li>Our Main Street program continues to grow and develop. This year we introduced the façade improvements grant program and gave out 12 grants to help improve downtown buildings. We conducted a public survey and hosted a visit from Main Street America and Kansas Main Street to help our local leaders set goals for downtown. And we continue to expand engagement with business owners, building owners and other community volunteers to make our downtown more vibrant, attractive and successful.</li><li>We also made progress this year on infrastructure projects, including repaving of Main Street, replacement of the turf at Fischer Field, and completion of the first of two new water storage tanks on West First Street and demolition of the deteriorating 1939 tank. We also received word that Newton was awarded $1.2 million in funding from KDOT&nbsp;for the next phase of K-15 construction in 2026-27.</li><li>KDOT also announced this year that a new interchange at U.S. 50 and Meridian is being considered and hosted a public meeting to gather input. KDOT also started construction on the I-135 and 36th Street interchange, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025.</li><li>Early this year, we welcomed new City Manager Daniela Rivas, who hit the ground running, getting out in the community, building relationships, and helping set goals that will strengthen our existing growth pathway and move our City forward.</li><li>There are few things a community can do that are more important than choosing its leaders. To that end, Ready to Run, a newly formed nonpartisan organization, has designed a course to help prepare those interested in elected or appointed office at the local level. We will kick off the inaugural class next month, and I’m excited to see this program grow and help foster our pool of future leaders.</li>
 </ul>As you can see, Newton is on a very strong path. In the past several years, City Commissioners and staff have put intentional focus on long-term planning, and we’ve been blessed to build a culture that allows the community to thrive. Our City Commission adopted a new&nbsp;<a href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.newtonkansas.com%2Fhome%2Fshowpublisheddocument%2F16954%2F638640124474230000/1/01000193dfeb771d-6b8f72bf-65f2-41a1-859f-73c0ecc3e208-000000/0Y9idVrmEzn0nAQQzmQedl2nMaMDvouInRMJmhDxduo=384" target="_blank">strategic plan</a>&nbsp;this year, and I’m excited for all we can achieve together.We are blessed to work together as a team that deeply cares about our community. I’ve never worked with a group that works harder or cares more about the people they represent. It’s not easy, but we love what we do. Thank you for allowing us to serve.Newton is headed in the right direction. I would invite my fellow Newtonians to join us in helping build up our community. Let’s all focus on the good things happening and how each of us can make a positive difference. Consider how you can volunteer your talents for a local nonprofit, service club, or advisory board; be a positive voice for Newton on social media; and don’t forget to make your voice heard in our local elections.Thank you again for the opportunity to represent you this past year as your mayor and in the future as a City Commissioner. I wish you all a very happy holiday season.Rod Kreie has served as a Newton City Commissioner since 2018. He can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rkreie@newtonkansas.com" target="_blank">rkreie@newtonkansas.com</a>.

2024: Building a culture for Newton to thrive

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hyde Park neighborhood is holding the 41st Annual Luminaria this evening, Saturday, Dec. 21. 

5:30 p.m. - Closing of the streets around Hyde Park (20th&nbsp;&amp; 22nd) 6:00 p.m.-&nbsp;Lighting of the&nbsp;luminaries&nbsp;and park activities begin with musical entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides and cider and cookies at the tent.&nbsp; Santa will also be located in the park this year.&nbsp;&nbsp; 9:00 p.m. - Park activities close down.&nbsp; 9:30 p.m. - All streets reopen to regular vehicular traffic.&nbsp;

Grace Episcopal Church Youth Group will be serving a soup dinner for a free will donation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RCAT will be providing free bus rides through Hyde Park.

New this year, there is no parking on the North side of W 18th Ave between Adams and Washington.

The unit &amp; 100 blocks of West 20th Avenue will be a one-way street for westbound traffic only and that the unit and 100 blocks of West 22nd Avenue will be a one-way street for eastbound traffic between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., with the event scheduled from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The area around Hyde Park will be lit up with more than 14,000 luminaries along with other Christmas decorations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734744004485.jpeg" alt="Hyde Park Street Closures-Image Courtesy City of Hutchinson" />
 <figcaption>Hyde Park Street Closures-Image Courtesy City of Hutchinson</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hyde Park neighborhood is holding the 41st Annual Luminaria this evening, Saturday, Dec. 21. 5:30 p.m. - Closing of the streets around Hyde Park (20th&nbsp;&amp; 22nd) 6:00 p.m.-&nbsp;Lighting of the&nbsp;luminaries&nbsp;and park activities begin with musical entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides and cider and cookies at the tent.&nbsp; Santa will also be located in the park this year.&nbsp;&nbsp; 9:00 p.m. - Park activities close down.&nbsp; 9:30 p.m. - All streets reopen to regular vehicular traffic.&nbsp; Grace Episcopal Church Youth Group will be serving a soup dinner for a free will donation.&nbsp;&nbsp;RCAT will be providing free bus rides through Hyde Park.New this year, there is no parking on the North side of W 18th Ave between Adams and Washington.The unit &amp; 100 blocks of West 20th Avenue will be a one-way street for westbound traffic only and that the unit and 100 blocks of West 22nd Avenue will be a one-way street for eastbound traffic between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., with the event scheduled from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.The area around Hyde Park will be lit up with more than 14,000 luminaries along with other Christmas decorations.

 Hyde Park Luminaria tonight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 1861 Club on the Kansas State Fairgrounds is hosting a New Year's Eve event for the public this year.

"We knew Hutch hadn't made a big New Year's Eve party for a lot of time or a lot of years," said James Fisher with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. "We decided to put together an exciting event for the community and invite people out, that also was a fundraiser for the foundation."

"The dinner starts at seven with an incredible band that'll start playing around 8:30 or 9," Fisher said. "We will do a toast at midnight. It really is just a fun evening of dining and dancing and and having a having a great evening together to ring in the new year."

Tickets are now available for $125/person or $225/couple.  On December 24, tickets go to $150/person and $275/couple. Tickets must be paid for at the time they are reserved. The Foundation accepts cash, check or a credit card for payment. You can call to get your tickets at (620) 615-7388.

Featured entertainment will be&nbsp;LOST WAX, the original mashup party band and the house band at the 2023 NFL Draft held in Kansas City. They offer stacks of funky tracks spanning six decades of pop, rock, hip hop, and R&amp;B.

"It's a place you feel comfortable in your cowboy hat or in your black tie tux," Fisher said. "It's welcoming to all, and it just makes you feel comfortable when you walk in the door. The natural wood, the stone, all of it put together. New Year's Eve is going to be exciting."

For more information on what the Club has planned for 2025, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.1861club.com/events">https://www.1861club.com/events</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725972086968.jpeg" alt="1861 Club Exterior-Photo by Pat James" />
 <figcaption>1861 Club Exterior-Photo by Pat James</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 1861 Club on the Kansas State Fairgrounds is hosting a New Year's Eve event for the public this year."We knew Hutch hadn't made a big New Year's Eve party for a lot of time or a lot of years," said James Fisher with the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. "We decided to put together an exciting event for the community and invite people out, that also was a fundraiser for the foundation."It's a full night of entertainment."The dinner starts at seven with an incredible band that'll start playing around 8:30 or 9," Fisher said. "We will do a toast at midnight. It really is just a fun evening of dining and dancing and and having a having a great evening together to ring in the new year."Tickets are now available for $125/person or $225/couple. On December 24, tickets go to $150/person and $275/couple. Tickets must be paid for at the time they are reserved. The Foundation accepts cash, check or a credit card for payment. You can call to get your tickets at (620) 615-7388.Featured entertainment will be&nbsp;LOST WAX, the original mashup party band and the house band at the 2023 NFL Draft held in Kansas City. They offer stacks of funky tracks spanning six decades of pop, rock, hip hop, and R&amp;B."It's a place you feel comfortable in your cowboy hat or in your black tie tux," Fisher said. "It's welcoming to all, and it just makes you feel comfortable when you walk in the door. The natural wood, the stone, all of it put together. New Year's Eve is going to be exciting."For more information on what the Club has planned for 2025, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.1861club.com/events">https://www.1861club.com/events</a>.

New Year's Eve event will be at 1861 Club

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to agenda documents, Reno County EMS is asking for more money from the county to put a new building in Arlington.

According to a letter from EMS Director Dave Johnston to the Board of County Commissioners, the original allocation of $610,000 is no longer sufficient to meet the updated project cost estimates. Based on the recent assessment provided by Landmark Architecture, the estimated total project cost has increased to $750,000.

This revised amount includes not only the construction costs but also the purchase of the land for the station and a project buffer to account for unforeseen expenses.

This is because of&nbsp; rising costs in construction materials, labor shortages, and ongoing supply chain challenges. Such factors are consistent with trends in construction projects locally.

The county has already allocated&nbsp; ARPA funds to contribute $483,028.50 toward this project. Another $100,000 from the county's Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Funds has been allocated for this project. The total amount already allocated from the county's federal sources cover $583,028.50 of the project. The remaining $166,971.50 (or the actual remaining cost) will come from the county's CIP Reserve Fund.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574087274920.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to agenda documents, Reno County EMS is asking for more money from the county to put a new building in Arlington.According to a letter from EMS Director Dave Johnston to the Board of County Commissioners, the original allocation of $610,000 is no longer sufficient to meet the updated project cost estimates. Based on the recent assessment provided by Landmark Architecture, the estimated total project cost has increased to $750,000.This revised amount includes not only the construction costs but also the purchase of the land for the station and a project buffer to account for unforeseen expenses.This is because of&nbsp; rising costs in construction materials, labor shortages, and ongoing supply chain challenges. Such factors are consistent with trends in construction projects locally.The county has already allocated&nbsp; ARPA funds to contribute $483,028.50 toward this project. Another $100,000 from the county's Local Assistance and Tribal Consistency Funds has been allocated for this project. The total amount already allocated from the county's federal sources cover $583,028.50 of the project. The remaining $166,971.50 (or the actual remaining cost) will come from the county's CIP Reserve Fund.The Board of County Commissioners meets Monday at 9 a.m. in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse.

Reno County EMS needs more money for Arlington building

NEWTON, Kan. — The City of Newton this week received a first place award from the Kansas Asphalt Pavement Association for the Main Street paving project completed earlier this year.

The $1.5 million project included milling and overlay, ADA ramp replacement, and some full-depth patching on Main Street between the BNSF Railway crossing and 11th Street. 

It was funded in part by the Kansas Department of Transportation’s City Connecting Links Improvement Program (CCLIP). APAC Shears of Hutchinson was the contractor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734742146538.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy City of Newton" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy City of Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — The City of Newton this week received a first place award from the Kansas Asphalt Pavement Association for the Main Street paving project completed earlier this year.The $1.5 million project included milling and overlay, ADA ramp replacement, and some full-depth patching on Main Street between the BNSF Railway crossing and 11th Street. It was funded in part by the Kansas Department of Transportation’s City Connecting Links Improvement Program (CCLIP). APAC Shears of Hutchinson was the contractor.

Newton project wins paving award

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Friday message from the Kansas WIC department, Kansas WIC will continue to serve and enroll families during a federal government shutdown or a continuing resolution, as long as it has funding. 

At this time, Kansas WIC has enough federal funds to stay open approximately through the end of January. WIC families should continue to use their WIC benefits and attend their appointments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734716175344.jpeg" alt="Reno County WIC" />
 <figcaption>Reno County WIC</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a Friday message from the Kansas WIC department, Kansas WIC will continue to serve and enroll families during a federal government shutdown or a continuing resolution, as long as it has funding. At this time, Kansas WIC has enough federal funds to stay open approximately through the end of January. WIC families should continue to use their WIC benefits and attend their appointments.

WIC not yet impacted by potential shutdown

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The unemployment rate in Reno County was lower for the month of November 2024.

According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the jobless rate for the county went down one tenth of a percent to 3.6%. The jobless rate for the same period in 2023 was 2.1%.

There were 1,053 county residents out of work.&nbsp;

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.5% in November. This is an increase from 3.4% in October and an increase from 2.6% in&nbsp;November 2023.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 7,900 from October.

Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 7,100 over the month, while government increased by 800.

“Total nonfarm job estimates for Kansas rebounded in November following a temporary drop last month. The fluctuations were partially due to the impacts of strike activity in October,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen.

“Over the last three months, Kansas has averaged 2,100 jobs added per month.”&nbsp;

Since November 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 19,100. This change is due to an increase of 14,100 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,000 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561209733269.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of LaborHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The unemployment rate in Reno County was lower for the month of November 2024.According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the jobless rate for the county went down one tenth of a percent to 3.6%. The jobless rate for the same period in 2023 was 2.1%.There were 1,053 county residents out of work.&nbsp;Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.5% in November. This is an increase from 3.4% in October and an increase from 2.6% in&nbsp;November 2023.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 7,900 from October.Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 7,100 over the month, while government increased by 800.“Total nonfarm job estimates for Kansas rebounded in November following a temporary drop last month. The fluctuations were partially due to the impacts of strike activity in October,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen.“Over the last three months, Kansas has averaged 2,100 jobs added per month.”&nbsp;Since November 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 19,100. This change is due to an increase of 14,100 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,000 government jobs.

Unemployment down in November

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Brian Brillhart is the Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month for December. He teaches English at Hutchinson Middle School-7.

"A strong 7th grade writer, I think, is somebody who has all the tools that they want to express themselves well," Brillhart said. "I mean, if that means a good vocabulary, so they're not limited by, you know, just pulling from a certain catalog of words, if they have grammar that allows them to express themselves clearly. I guess the goal would be just that they can say what they're thinking, what they're feeling, in exactly the way that they want to, in a way that can be understood by people so that they don't feel like they're ever misunderstood."

Brillhart notes that it isn't easy for some students to express themselves.

"We've made the basics of writing a starting point for each of the last few years, because we've seen the need for a focus on that, because students are so limited in their expression, especially in writing," Brillhart said. "That's kind of a first things first, and I think, you know, that that's probably not unique, even at the elementary level, but yeah, I would say that whether they're conscious of it or not, we see limitations, certainly, in the way that they're able to express themselves and would like for them to feel more freedom."

It's also important to know that meaning is shared and it changes over time.&nbsp;

"I've been around just long enough to know which way the wind blows, but I've told students several times this year, I wish I'd kept a dictionary of sorts, cataloging some of these, these terms in their vocabulary that seem to be so fleeting," Brillhart said. "They come and go, and words that they have, you know, they have their own nuanced, personalized meaning for, but then you ask somebody seated next to them, they might say something completely different. They have a well for communication with their peers or for other purposes on social media, whatever, but in terms of academics and being able to express themselves in a wide, a wide variety of settings, there's room for that."

Brillhart's class received Pizza Hut pizza and ice cream from Braum's to commemorate his award.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734656164293.jpeg" alt="Brian Brillhart is the December 2024 Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month." />
 <figcaption>Brian Brillhart is the December 2024 Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Brian Brillhart is the Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month for December. He teaches English at Hutchinson Middle School-7."A strong 7th grade writer, I think, is somebody who has all the tools that they want to express themselves well," Brillhart said. "I mean, if that means a good vocabulary, so they're not limited by, you know, just pulling from a certain catalog of words, if they have grammar that allows them to express themselves clearly. I guess the goal would be just that they can say what they're thinking, what they're feeling, in exactly the way that they want to, in a way that can be understood by people so that they don't feel like they're ever misunderstood."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734703450291.jpeg" alt="Brian Brillhart is the December 2024 Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month." />
 <figcaption>Brian Brillhart is the December 2024 Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.</figcaption>
 </figure>Brillhart notes that it isn't easy for some students to express themselves."We've made the basics of writing a starting point for each of the last few years, because we've seen the need for a focus on that, because students are so limited in their expression, especially in writing," Brillhart said. "That's kind of a first things first, and I think, you know, that that's probably not unique, even at the elementary level, but yeah, I would say that whether they're conscious of it or not, we see limitations, certainly, in the way that they're able to express themselves and would like for them to feel more freedom."It's also important to know that meaning is shared and it changes over time.&nbsp;"I've been around just long enough to know which way the wind blows, but I've told students several times this year, I wish I'd kept a dictionary of sorts, cataloging some of these, these terms in their vocabulary that seem to be so fleeting," Brillhart said. "They come and go, and words that they have, you know, they have their own nuanced, personalized meaning for, but then you ask somebody seated next to them, they might say something completely different. They have a well for communication with their peers or for other purposes on social media, whatever, but in terms of academics and being able to express themselves in a wide, a wide variety of settings, there's room for that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734703525186.jpeg" alt="Students in Brian Brillhart's class receive ice cream from Braums with the help of Allen Samuels CDJR." />
 <figcaption>Students in Brian Brillhart's class receive ice cream from Braums with the help of Allen Samuels CDJR.</figcaption>
 </figure>Brillhart's class received Pizza Hut pizza and ice cream from Braum's to commemorate his award.

Brillhart is Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army will be giving out Christmas food boxes and toys for Christmas on Friday, December 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Each year The Salvation Army gives the gift of toys, food and blankets to residents of Reno County. This year over 1100 children from Reno County will receive toys and more than 900 families will receive a Christmas food box and new blankets. Of course, The Salvation Army cannot do this on their own and has been blessed by the generosity of so many individuals, businesses, organizations, and angels in our midst.

"Dillons is a huge part of making it possible to provide food for the 1100 boxes that will be shared," said Major Paul James. "They also help with food drives in front of their stores making it possible for special people in the community to take part in helping their neighbors. Without the help of everyone in our community, it isn’t possible to help those in need this season. It literally takes everyone pitching in that’s able to give of their time and resources."

When looking at all the toys needed, there are so many groups and businesses who take part and need our thanks. The Angel Tree at Walmart is one of the largest pieces to help get toys for every child from 0-12 year olds. This allows parents the opportunity to share a wish list for businesses and people in the community to adopt a child, several children, or even an entire family. There’s also the Reno County Toy Run that makes up a large portion of the toys we need along with Toys 4 Tots who&nbsp;collects toys for different groups. "It’s so humbling and encouraging to see people’s generosity when it comes to making sure children receive a gift," Major James said. "We as The Salvation Army pride ourselves in giving hope, but this time of year can be discouraging without the work of so many groups."

The Salvation Army still needs help to reach their operating budget goal this season. With 5 days to go as of Thursday, they still need $21,390 for their Red Kettle goal, and $200,000 for their overall goal which ends on January 31. 

"This time is The Salvation Army’s most important fundraising season," James said. "This time of year sets us up cashflow wise to get through most of the year."

You may mail your donation, drop it off at their local office at 700 North Walnut in Hutchinson or drop it in one of their iconic Red Kettles. It’s not too late to think about giving your year-end gifts as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Salvation ArmyHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army will be giving out Christmas food boxes and toys for Christmas on Friday, December 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Each year The Salvation Army gives the gift of toys, food and blankets to residents of Reno County. This year over 1100 children from Reno County will receive toys and more than 900 families will receive a Christmas food box and new blankets. Of course, The Salvation Army cannot do this on their own and has been blessed by the generosity of so many individuals, businesses, organizations, and angels in our midst."Dillons is a huge part of making it possible to provide food for the 1100 boxes that will be shared," said Major Paul James. "They also help with food drives in front of their stores making it possible for special people in the community to take part in helping their neighbors. Without the help of everyone in our community, it isn’t possible to help those in need this season. It literally takes everyone pitching in that’s able to give of their time and resources."When looking at all the toys needed, there are so many groups and businesses who take part and need our thanks. The Angel Tree at Walmart is one of the largest pieces to help get toys for every child from 0-12 year olds. This allows parents the opportunity to share a wish list for businesses and people in the community to adopt a child, several children, or even an entire family. There’s also the Reno County Toy Run that makes up a large portion of the toys we need along with Toys 4 Tots who&nbsp;collects toys for different groups. "It’s so humbling and encouraging to see people’s generosity when it comes to making sure children receive a gift," Major James said. "We as The Salvation Army pride ourselves in giving hope, but this time of year can be discouraging without the work of so many groups."The Salvation Army still needs help to reach their operating budget goal this season. With 5 days to go as of Thursday, they still need $21,390 for their Red Kettle goal, and $200,000 for their overall goal which ends on January 31. "This time is The Salvation Army’s most important fundraising season," James said. "This time of year sets us up cashflow wise to get through most of the year."You may mail your donation, drop it off at their local office at 700 North Walnut in Hutchinson or drop it in one of their iconic Red Kettles. It’s not too late to think about giving your year-end gifts as well.

Salvation Army giving hope this Christmas

JENNIFER WEATHERS Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce

For over five decades, Kauffman Seeds has been deeply rooted in Reno County’s farming community.

What began as K &amp; W Fish Farm under Edward and Frida Kauffman in the early 20th century has blossomed into a cornerstone of agricultural innovation and service. When the fish farming days ended, the Kauffman’s pivoted to certified wheat production in the 1980s and later expanded into soybeans and corn. Today, under the leadership of Dustin and Megan Miller, this legacy continues to thrive.

The growth story of Kauffman Seeds is truly remarkable. From two grain bins to now operating with&nbsp;80 bins across two locations, they’ve built a business that not only serves but enriches our&nbsp;community. The transformation of Edward and Frida’s home into an office and the acquisition of a 3.5-acre warehouse in 2014 showcase their resilience, hard work, and vision for the future.

Their accomplishments are equally impressive. Kauffman Seeds has been recognized as the&nbsp;Agriculture Award of the Year recipient in 2021 and consistently ranks as a top wheat seller for genetic companies. Their field days and research plots demonstrate their commitment to educating farmers and improving agricultural sustainability.

What truly sets Kauffman Seeds apart is their unwavering dedication to community and relationships.

They build strong connections with their customers, offering locally grown products and tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of farms in our area. Their family-first culture extends to their employees, many of whom have been with them for over ten years. Kauffman Seeds values every team member’s voice, encouraging input and collaboration to ensure the business’s continued success.

Beyond their business achievements, Kauffman Seeds exemplifies the spirit of giving back. From supporting local schools and FFA programs to participating in Yoder Days and community events, their contributions enrich Reno County in countless ways. Their generosity and willingness to step up—whether it's lending equipment to neighbors or hosting tours for visitors—showcase the values that make them a pillar of our community.

Kauffman Seeds is not just a business—it’s a legacy of hard work, innovation, and service. They represent the heart of what makes Reno County’s business community so special. Congratulations to&nbsp;Dustin, Megan, and the entire Kauffman Seeds team on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your dedication, vision, and commitment to making our community stronger every day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734655592500.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>JENNIFER WEATHERS Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of CommerceFor over five decades, Kauffman Seeds has been deeply rooted in Reno County’s farming community.What began as K &amp; W Fish Farm under Edward and Frida Kauffman in the early 20th century has blossomed into a cornerstone of agricultural innovation and service. When the fish farming days ended, the Kauffman’s pivoted to certified wheat production in the 1980s and later expanded into soybeans and corn. Today, under the leadership of Dustin and Megan Miller, this legacy continues to thrive.The growth story of Kauffman Seeds is truly remarkable. From two grain bins to now operating with&nbsp;80 bins across two locations, they’ve built a business that not only serves but enriches our&nbsp;community. The transformation of Edward and Frida’s home into an office and the acquisition of a 3.5-acre warehouse in 2014 showcase their resilience, hard work, and vision for the future.Their accomplishments are equally impressive. Kauffman Seeds has been recognized as the&nbsp;Agriculture Award of the Year recipient in 2021 and consistently ranks as a top wheat seller for genetic companies. Their field days and research plots demonstrate their commitment to educating farmers and improving agricultural sustainability.What truly sets Kauffman Seeds apart is their unwavering dedication to community and relationships.They build strong connections with their customers, offering locally grown products and tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of farms in our area. Their family-first culture extends to their employees, many of whom have been with them for over ten years. Kauffman Seeds values every team member’s voice, encouraging input and collaboration to ensure the business’s continued success.Beyond their business achievements, Kauffman Seeds exemplifies the spirit of giving back. From supporting local schools and FFA programs to participating in Yoder Days and community events, their contributions enrich Reno County in countless ways. Their generosity and willingness to step up—whether it's lending equipment to neighbors or hosting tours for visitors—showcase the values that make them a pillar of our community.Kauffman Seeds is not just a business—it’s a legacy of hard work, innovation, and service. They represent the heart of what makes Reno County’s business community so special. Congratulations to&nbsp;Dustin, Megan, and the entire Kauffman Seeds team on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your dedication, vision, and commitment to making our community stronger every day.

Kauffman Seeds is December Small Business of the Month

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the chill of winter sets in, Kansas Gas Service is dedicated to helping customers stay warm and save money. With a few no-cost or low-cost energy-saving tips, families can reduce their energy use without sacrificing comfort.

“Making small adjustments to save on energy consumption is easier than customers think. With simple tips and tools, Kansans can use less energy, which lowers bills and keeps more money in their pockets,” said Sean Postlethwait, vice president of Operations at Kansas Gas Service.

5 Easy Steps to Save Money and Energy This Winter

Customers can take these easy steps to reduce energy use and help manage their winter bills:

• Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows: Apply weather-stripping or caulk to seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to keep warm air in and cold air out.

• Reduce the Temperature on Your Water Heater: Set your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or the “warm” setting.

• Change or Clean Filters: A clean filter on your furnace can lower your energy consumption by 5% to 15%.

• Install Foam Gaskets on Switches and Outlets: Electrical switches and outlets can account for up to 10% of your home’s energy loss.

• Change the Rotation of Ceiling Fans: Hot air rises, so reverse your ceiling fans to a clockwise rotation to push warm air downward.

Applying these tips can help reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills while keeping your home comfortable during the winter months. For more information, visit <a href="http://kansasgasservice.com/energytips">kansasgasservice.com/energytips</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723134255946.jpeg" alt="Kansas Gas Service" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gas Service</figcaption>
 </figure>DAWN TRIPP Kansas Gas ServiceHUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the chill of winter sets in, Kansas Gas Service is dedicated to helping customers stay warm and save money. With a few no-cost or low-cost energy-saving tips, families can reduce their energy use without sacrificing comfort.“Making small adjustments to save on energy consumption is easier than customers think. With simple tips and tools, Kansans can use less energy, which lowers bills and keeps more money in their pockets,” said Sean Postlethwait, vice president of Operations at Kansas Gas Service.5 Easy Steps to Save Money and Energy This WinterCustomers can take these easy steps to reduce energy use and help manage their winter bills:• Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows: Apply weather-stripping or caulk to seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to keep warm air in and cold air out.• Reduce the Temperature on Your Water Heater: Set your water heater’s temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or the “warm” setting.• Change or Clean Filters: A clean filter on your furnace can lower your energy consumption by 5% to 15%.• Install Foam Gaskets on Switches and Outlets: Electrical switches and outlets can account for up to 10% of your home’s energy loss.• Change the Rotation of Ceiling Fans: Hot air rises, so reverse your ceiling fans to a clockwise rotation to push warm air downward.Applying these tips can help reduce energy consumption and lower your utility bills while keeping your home comfortable during the winter months. For more information, visit <a href="http://kansasgasservice.com/energytips">kansasgasservice.com/energytips</a>.

Kansas Gas Service gives energy saving tips for winter

TOPEKA, Kan. — Governor Laura Kelly, on behalf of the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (KCJCC), announced on Thursday the 2025 grant awards for the Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.

The JAG funds are provided to criminal justice system partners to address crime and improve public safety across Kansas. Specifically, the JAG awards made to local and state agencies fund programs designed to reduce and prevent crime, assist with equipment and technology needs and provide crime victim services.

The JAG program represents a collaborative partnership among federal, state and local governments to create safer communities and improve criminal justice systems. It provides critical funding to support a range of program areas such as law enforcement, corrections, drug treatment and enforcement, technology improvement, prevention activities, crime victim services, and mental health programs.

The KCJCC oversees the criminal justice federal funding made available to Kansas through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance.&nbsp; The KCJCC membership is representative of the Governor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Corrections, the Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

A total of $1,924,842 was awarded to 26 agencies. 

Hutch Post area agencies awarded include the Kingman County Sheriff's Office that was awarded&nbsp;$167,766 and&nbsp;Pratt Police Department. That department was awarded $10,495.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730206744597.jpeg" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — Governor Laura Kelly, on behalf of the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (KCJCC), announced on Thursday the 2025 grant awards for the Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.The JAG funds are provided to criminal justice system partners to address crime and improve public safety across Kansas. Specifically, the JAG awards made to local and state agencies fund programs designed to reduce and prevent crime, assist with equipment and technology needs and provide crime victim services.The JAG program represents a collaborative partnership among federal, state and local governments to create safer communities and improve criminal justice systems. It provides critical funding to support a range of program areas such as law enforcement, corrections, drug treatment and enforcement, technology improvement, prevention activities, crime victim services, and mental health programs.The KCJCC oversees the criminal justice federal funding made available to Kansas through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance.&nbsp; The KCJCC membership is representative of the Governor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Corrections, the Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.A total of $1,924,842 was awarded to 26 agencies. Hutch Post area agencies awarded include the Kingman County Sheriff's Office that was awarded&nbsp;$167,766 and&nbsp;Pratt Police Department. That department was awarded $10,495.

JAG grant awardees announced

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Office said that one person was killed early Thursday morning in a traffic accident. According to a social media post, just before 3:15 a.m. Thursday, deputies were dispatched to the area of 56th Avenue and Plum Street for an injury rollover accident involving one vehicle. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was identified as 65-year-old Terry Lynn Moore from Wichita.&nbsp;

When they got there, deputies discovered a vehicle on its side in the northeast ditch. It appeared the driver had been ejected from the vehicle during the accident. Life saving measures were performed but were ultimately unsuccessful and the driver was pronounced dead on scene. 

It appeared that the vehicle was traveling Southbound on Plum Street and failed to negotiate the curve leading to the roundabout and struck a culvert causing the vehicle to go airborne and roll. 

The Hutchinson Police Department, Hutchinson Fire Department and Reno County EMS assisted in the investigation. The investigation continues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Office said that one person was killed early Thursday morning in a traffic accident. According to a social media post, just before 3:15 a.m. Thursday, deputies were dispatched to the area of 56th Avenue and Plum Street for an injury rollover accident involving one vehicle. The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was identified as 65-year-old Terry Lynn Moore from Wichita.&nbsp;When they got there, deputies discovered a vehicle on its side in the northeast ditch. It appeared the driver had been ejected from the vehicle during the accident. Life saving measures were performed but were ultimately unsuccessful and the driver was pronounced dead on scene. It appeared that the vehicle was traveling Southbound on Plum Street and failed to negotiate the curve leading to the roundabout and struck a culvert causing the vehicle to go airborne and roll. The Hutchinson Police Department, Hutchinson Fire Department and Reno County EMS assisted in the investigation. The investigation continues.

Fatal accident early Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army needs your help to reach their kettle goal for 2024, as they still needed over $20,000 to reach their goal as of Thursday.

"We definitely need support as we go into the weekend," said Major Paul James. "The weekends are usually always bigger anyway. We have some matching opportunities at 5th Street Dillons, we have matching opportunities at the 30th Street Dillons. Those are $20 bill matches all this week. Then Saturday, of course, all of our locations, $20 bills will be matched, as well. A lot of opportunity to help us get to that goal."

They are still doing the Tap to Pay match if you'll tap the $20 spot at the kettle outside one of the matching locations. They also still need some toys.

"Friday is our distribution," James said. "We'll be distributing to over 900 families for food and then over 1100 kids for toys. One of those age groups that's difficult to provide for, 10-12 year old boys and girls are kind of that area, but specifically girls 10-12. We're way short on those."

Contact the Salvation Army at (620) 663-3353 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701284931208.jpeg" alt="20 Dollar Bill-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>20 Dollar Bill-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Salvation Army needs your help to reach their kettle goal for 2024, as they still needed over $20,000 to reach their goal as of Thursday."We definitely need support as we go into the weekend," said Major Paul James. "The weekends are usually always bigger anyway. We have some matching opportunities at 5th Street Dillons, we have matching opportunities at the 30th Street Dillons. Those are $20 bill matches all this week. Then Saturday, of course, all of our locations, $20 bills will be matched, as well. A lot of opportunity to help us get to that goal."They are still doing the Tap to Pay match if you'll tap the $20 spot at the kettle outside one of the matching locations. They also still need some toys."Friday is our distribution," James said. "We'll be distributing to over 900 families for food and then over 1100 kids for toys. One of those age groups that's difficult to provide for, 10-12 year old boys and girls are kind of that area, but specifically girls 10-12. We're way short on those."Contact the Salvation Army at (620) 663-3353 for more information.

Salvation Army in stretch run

CANYON, Texas — Down 14 just halfway through the first quarter, No. 3 Hutchinson (11-1) found a way to capture its second national championship in program history Wednesday night.

Back-to-back national champion No. 1 Iowa Western (11-2) scored on its first two drives to build a 14-0 advantage with 6:49 left in the first frame.

Reiver quarterback Hunter Dekkers drove his team 93 yards in just nine plays on the first possession of the game. Dekkers capped the drive with a 27-yard pass to Keyon Brown.

Hutchinson went three-and-out and Davis Barr had his punt blocked. The Reivers recovered with a short field and capitalized on a free play.

The Dragon defense jumped offside and Dekkers hit Titus Myers on a 14-yard strike.

Dekkers finished the first half with 240 yards and two touchdowns on 15-of-23 passing.

Hutchinson cut into the Iowa Western lead as the first quarter expired when Samari Collier completed his first pass of the contest to Ben Prosper for 26 yards.

Collier used that momentum on a 27-yard touchdown run just four plays into the second quarter.

A Max Bartachek 32-yard field goal gave Iowa Western a 17-7 halftime lead after a Nestus Burger field-goal attempt from 46 yards went wide right.

The Reivers drove to the Dragon 4, but had no timeouts left as the clock expired on the first half.

Hutchinson scored the next 21 points unanswered.

The Dragons opened the third quarter with a 10-play, 54-yard drive that was capped with a Collier 8-yard pass to Prosper.

Shortly after, Collier left the game with an ankle injury.

Christian Johnson entered the game at quarterback for Hutchinson and threw a dime for seven on just his second play from scrimmage.

"(You) always got to stay ready," coach Drew Dallas said of his team's next-man-up mentality. "It's two cranks of the arm and go."

Johnson dropped back and hit Tre Brown for a 34-yard score.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/e899514f-ba68-4685-9f9a-3680683a73e2">In the national semifinal, Johnson threw a touchdown pass on his first play from scrimmage.</a>

The play of the game came with 3:26 left in the third quarter.

Punt returner Kordell Gouldsby backpedaled to retrieve a Jonah Dupont punt. He found the opening he needed for a 73-yard house call.

The momentum-shifter put Hutchinson up 28-17 and was enough for Gouldsby to be named the game's most valuable player.

Hutchinson erased a double-digit lead and etched a double-digit lead of its own, but Iowa Western would not go away quietly.

Dekkers led the Reivers on another 93-yard drive. The 10-play drive was capped on a Brown reverse from 11 yards out.

Reiver head coach Scott Strohmeier kept his offense on the field for a two-point try. The attempt failed as Dekkers could not connect with receiver Fresh Walters.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5fff7a25-f22a-4f0b-a976-af3b3080d20f">It was the second time in as many meetings this season that a failed two-point attempt helped decide the outcome of the game.</a>

Up five, Hutchinson needed one last stop from its defense after a Nestus Burger 32-yard field-goal attempt was blocked.

Iowa Western drove the ball to its own 46 before facing a fourth down. On 4th-and-5, Dekkers found tight end Naivyan Cargill for 13 yards.

The Reivers moved the ball to the Hutchinson 5 before facing fourth down again.

Dekkers was looking for Cargill again when he was pressured by Dragon linebacker JaQuel Mack. The pass was broken up by Avian Rice.

"Play for the man beside you," Rice pleaded with his teammates at halftime when the Dragons were down 10, a sentiment Kedrick Walker reminded himself throughout the second half.

Walker, Mack and Rice combined for 18 tackles, a tackle for loss, two broken-up passes and three quarterback hurries.

Marshon Oxley lived in the Reiver backfield and registered three sacks.

FINAL: Hutchinson 28 Iowa Western 23

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8ba9a62c-dd84-4116-9aff-34a3292317df">This is Hutchinson's second national title under Drew Dallas.</a>

Much like the first championship, Hutchinson had to erase a 14-point deficit.

The Dragon defense held Hunter Dekkers to 36.8% passing in the second half.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2e1fac2d-1112-4724-baf2-89833c43d5da">National Player of the Year Waymond Jordan Junior was held to 79 yards rushing on 24 carries.</a>

Before his exit, Samari Collier threw for 80 yards on 6-of-16 passing and added 109 yards on the ground with two total touchdowns.

Christian Johnson's only completion in five attempts went for a 34-yard touchdown.

The Reivers went 3-of-3 on third down to begin the game but were held to 3-of-14 the rest of the contest.

Both of Iowa Western's losses this season came at the hands of Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734591940207.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CANYON, Texas — Down 14 just halfway through the first quarter, No. 3 Hutchinson (11-1) found a way to capture its second national championship in program history Wednesday night.Back-to-back national champion No. 1 Iowa Western (11-2) scored on its first two drives to build a 14-0 advantage with 6:49 left in the first frame.Reiver quarterback Hunter Dekkers drove his team 93 yards in just nine plays on the first possession of the game. Dekkers capped the drive with a 27-yard pass to Keyon Brown.Hutchinson went three-and-out and Davis Barr had his punt blocked. The Reivers recovered with a short field and capitalized on a free play.The Dragon defense jumped offside and Dekkers hit Titus Myers on a 14-yard strike.Dekkers finished the first half with 240 yards and two touchdowns on 15-of-23 passing.Hutchinson cut into the Iowa Western lead as the first quarter expired when Samari Collier completed his first pass of the contest to Ben Prosper for 26 yards.Collier used that momentum on a 27-yard touchdown run just four plays into the second quarter.A Max Bartachek 32-yard field goal gave Iowa Western a 17-7 halftime lead after a Nestus Burger field-goal attempt from 46 yards went wide right.The Reivers drove to the Dragon 4, but had no timeouts left as the clock expired on the first half.Hutchinson scored the next 21 points unanswered.The Dragons opened the third quarter with a 10-play, 54-yard drive that was capped with a Collier 8-yard pass to Prosper.Shortly after, Collier left the game with an ankle injury.Christian Johnson entered the game at quarterback for Hutchinson and threw a dime for seven on just his second play from scrimmage."(You) always got to stay ready," coach Drew Dallas said of his team's next-man-up mentality. "It's two cranks of the arm and go."Johnson dropped back and hit Tre Brown for a 34-yard score.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/e899514f-ba68-4685-9f9a-3680683a73e2">In the national semifinal, Johnson threw a touchdown pass on his first play from scrimmage.</a>The play of the game came with 3:26 left in the third quarter.Punt returner Kordell Gouldsby backpedaled to retrieve a Jonah Dupont punt. He found the opening he needed for a 73-yard house call.The momentum-shifter put Hutchinson up 28-17 and was enough for Gouldsby to be named the game's most valuable player.Hutchinson erased a double-digit lead and etched a double-digit lead of its own, but Iowa Western would not go away quietly.Dekkers led the Reivers on another 93-yard drive. The 10-play drive was capped on a Brown reverse from 11 yards out.Reiver head coach Scott Strohmeier kept his offense on the field for a two-point try. The attempt failed as Dekkers could not connect with receiver Fresh Walters.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5fff7a25-f22a-4f0b-a976-af3b3080d20f">It was the second time in as many meetings this season that a failed two-point attempt helped decide the outcome of the game.</a>Up five, Hutchinson needed one last stop from its defense after a Nestus Burger 32-yard field-goal attempt was blocked.The Reivers took over at their own 15.Iowa Western drove the ball to its own 46 before facing a fourth down. On 4th-and-5, Dekkers found tight end Naivyan Cargill for 13 yards.The Reivers moved the ball to the Hutchinson 5 before facing fourth down again.Dekkers was looking for Cargill again when he was pressured by Dragon linebacker JaQuel Mack. The pass was broken up by Avian Rice."Play for the man beside you," Rice pleaded with his teammates at halftime when the Dragons were down 10, a sentiment Kedrick Walker reminded himself throughout the second half.Walker, Mack and Rice combined for 18 tackles, a tackle for loss, two broken-up passes and three quarterback hurries.Marshon Oxley lived in the Reiver backfield and registered three sacks.FINAL: Hutchinson 28 Iowa Western 23<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8ba9a62c-dd84-4116-9aff-34a3292317df">This is Hutchinson's second national title under Drew Dallas.</a>Much like the first championship, Hutchinson had to erase a 14-point deficit.The Dragon defense held Hunter Dekkers to 36.8% passing in the second half.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/2e1fac2d-1112-4724-baf2-89833c43d5da">National Player of the Year Waymond Jordan Junior was held to 79 yards rushing on 24 carries.</a>Before his exit, Samari Collier threw for 80 yards on 6-of-16 passing and added 109 yards on the ground with two total touchdowns.Christian Johnson's only completion in five attempts went for a 34-yard touchdown.The Reivers went 3-of-3 on third down to begin the game but were held to 3-of-14 the rest of the contest.Both of Iowa Western's losses this season came at the hands of Hutchinson.

🏈 Dragons capture second championship

Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."

STEVE HARMON Hutch Post Contributor

Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 500 block of East Avenue A on the north side.

In 1900, George Updegraff had a drug store at 1 S. Main and his son, Robert, was a dentist upstairs.

Robert built a grand Victorian-style home that year at 528 E. Ave. A. The first photo shows that home at completion in 1901.

After George's passing, Robert decided to move and sell the home. Meanwhile, George Gano decided to move his milling and wheat storage business from Pawnee Rock to Hutchinson for the rail connections and purchased the 528 E. Ave. A home in 1904 for $7,000.

Gano was very successful in grain marketing and building grain elevators in Western Kansas.

By 1947, at the age of 70, he decided to sell Gano Grain Corporation to the Bunge Corp., a Belgium conglomerate, for $5 million.

In 1949, Gano died and his grandson, Nelson Hobart, inherited the home and lived there for about 10 years.

In 1975, Ralph (Doc) and Teddy Gingerich purchased the home and have lived there ever since. The second photo shows the house today, still in grand shape at 528 E. Ave. A.

To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.

Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:

<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733936228352.png" alt="Dr. R. H. Updegraff (Dentist) Residence - 528 E. Ave. A - 1901. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Dr. R. H. Updegraff (Dentist) Residence - 528 E. Ave. A - 1901. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then &amp; Now Collection."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714573898261.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>STEVE HARMON Hutch Post ContributorToday's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 500 block of East Avenue A on the north side.In 1900, George Updegraff had a drug store at 1 S. Main and his son, Robert, was a dentist upstairs.Robert built a grand Victorian-style home that year at 528 E. Ave. A. The first photo shows that home at completion in 1901.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733936228352.png" alt="Dr. R. H. Updegraff (Dentist) Residence - 528 E. Ave. A - 1901. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Dr. R. H. Updegraff (Dentist) Residence - 528 E. Ave. A - 1901. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>After George's passing, Robert decided to move and sell the home. Meanwhile, George Gano decided to move his milling and wheat storage business from Pawnee Rock to Hutchinson for the rail connections and purchased the 528 E. Ave. A home in 1904 for $7,000.Gano was very successful in grain marketing and building grain elevators in Western Kansas.By 1947, at the age of 70, he decided to sell Gano Grain Corporation to the Bunge Corp., a Belgium conglomerate, for $5 million.In 1949, Gano died and his grandson, Nelson Hobart, inherited the home and lived there for about 10 years.In 1975, Ralph (Doc) and Teddy Gingerich purchased the home and have lived there ever since. The second photo shows the house today, still in grand shape at 528 E. Ave. A.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733936334072.png" alt="Dr. R. H. Updegraff Home - Doc Gingerich Home - 528 E. Ave. A - Nov. 10, 2024. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Dr. R. H. Updegraff Home - Doc Gingerich Home - 528 E. Ave. A - Nov. 10, 2024. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>To purchase a photo print, contact:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sharmon5@cox.net">sharmon5@cox.net</a>.Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:<a href="https://www.hutchchamber.com/">Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce</a> <a href="https://underkansas.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_KHt9Zeq_QIVwRPUAR3CTwTSEAAYASAAEgJDJPD_BwE">STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum</a>

📷 Throwback Thursday: Dr. Updegraff Residence - Vol. 101

INMAN, Kan. — A McPherson County man was booked into jail on charges related to the illegal discharge of a firearm after a police incident that cancelled school for the Teutons on Wednesday.

According to the McPherson County Sheriff's Office, the Inman Police Department and Sheriff's Office personnel, including the McPherson County SRT responded to an ongoing situation involving shots fired in the 300 block of South Maple Street in Inman, KS on Wednesday. 

The situation was resolved by 10 a.m., but by then, the district had announced no classes for the day.

According to the McPherson County jail log, later on Wednesday, 34-year-old Benjamin Gerard Schwindt was booked on requested charges of criminal discharge of a firearm, possession of a firearm while intoxicated, attempted aggravated criminal threat against LEO, aggravated criminal damage and aggravated child endangerment.&nbsp;

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734608270489.png" alt="Schwindt photo McPherson Co." />
 <figcaption>Schwindt photo McPherson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>INMAN, Kan. — A McPherson County man was booked into jail on charges related to the illegal discharge of a firearm after a police incident that cancelled school for the Teutons on Wednesday.According to the McPherson County Sheriff's Office, the Inman Police Department and Sheriff's Office personnel, including the McPherson County SRT responded to an ongoing situation involving shots fired in the 300 block of South Maple Street in Inman, KS on Wednesday. The situation was resolved by 10 a.m., but by then, the district had announced no classes for the day.According to the McPherson County jail log, later on Wednesday, 34-year-old Benjamin Gerard Schwindt was booked on requested charges of criminal discharge of a firearm, possession of a firearm while intoxicated, attempted aggravated criminal threat against LEO, aggravated criminal damage and aggravated child endangerment.&nbsp;All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Man jailed after schools closed due to shots fired Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The holidays are here. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering with friends and family or keeping things quiet at home, Evergy is reminding customers of ways to save energy this season.  

Don’t frequently open the oven. Every time the door is opened, heat escapes and the inside temperature is reduced by as much as 25 degrees, forcing it to work even harder.  

Use smaller appliances when you can. Slow cookers and air fryers can be a great way to save money and use less energy this time of year.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638367103842.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>EvergyHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The holidays are here. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering with friends and family or keeping things quiet at home, Evergy is reminding customers of ways to save energy this season. Don’t frequently open the oven. Every time the door is opened, heat escapes and the inside temperature is reduced by as much as 25 degrees, forcing it to work even harder.  Use smaller appliances when you can. Slow cookers and air fryers can be a great way to save money and use less energy this time of year.  Adjust your thermostat for entertaining. If you’re having a party or a few friends over, turn your thermostat down a few degrees. The combination of the hot stove and more people in your space means your home will be warmer than usual. This gives your furnace a break and keeps your guests from getting too hot.  Use the right type of lights. LED holiday lights are more energy efficient than traditional incandescent lights. LED lights also last longer and are safer to use because they don’t produce as much heat as traditional holiday light bulbs. Use timers for your holiday lights so you can make sure they aren’t on when they don’t need to be.  When you go to sleep, so should your decorations. Not only does this save you money, but it’s also a safety measure. Turn off, unplug, and extinguish all unattended decorations.  If you’re giving electronics for gifts this year, look for the Energy Star certification. Energy Star certification is through the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. This means those products meet the criteria for energy efficiency.