Rise Up Reno Prevention Network has completed the formation of the Drug Endangered Children Alliance with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between agencies who are the leading force behind the wellbeing of children in Reno County. Those agencies include Law Enforcement, Fire Department, EMS, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Reno County Health Department, Reno County District Attorney's office, Juvenile Intake Assessment Services, Kansas Department of Children and Families, St. Francis Ministries, TFI Family Preservation, Parents as Teachers Hutchinson, and Horizons Mental Health Center.

Representation from schools in Reno County and the Reno Co. Sherriff Department were instrumental in helping with an addition to the Alliance by collaborating on a Handle With Care memorandum of understanding.  Handle with Care identifies children who have experienced traumatic events, so they are handled with care in the event of unusual behaviors.

Drug endangered children are those who are at risk of suffering physical, mental or emotional harm as a result of substance misuse by a parent or caregiver. They may also be children whose caretaker’s substance use interferes with the ability to parent and provide a safe and nurturing home.

An estimated 165,847 Kansas children are living in environments where their parent or caregiver uses substances. In addition, approximately 3,781 infants are born exposed to substances in Kansas each year. The goal is to reduce the number of children who experience environments where substances are used by increasing identification of and improving the response to these children. This will include resources to families to help break the generational cycle of substance use disorder.

The funding to form the alliance is part of a grant KDHE received from the U.S. Department of Justice awarded to Rise Up Reno Prevention Network.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734022569503.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Rise Up Reno Prevention Network" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Rise Up Reno Prevention Network</figcaption>
 </figure>Rise Up Reno Prevention NetworkRise Up Reno Prevention Network has completed the formation of the Drug Endangered Children Alliance with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between agencies who are the leading force behind the wellbeing of children in Reno County. Those agencies include Law Enforcement, Fire Department, EMS, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, Reno County Health Department, Reno County District Attorney's office, Juvenile Intake Assessment Services, Kansas Department of Children and Families, St. Francis Ministries, TFI Family Preservation, Parents as Teachers Hutchinson, and Horizons Mental Health Center.Representation from schools in Reno County and the Reno Co. Sherriff Department were instrumental in helping with an addition to the Alliance by collaborating on a Handle With Care memorandum of understanding. Handle with Care identifies children who have experienced traumatic events, so they are handled with care in the event of unusual behaviors.Drug endangered children are those who are at risk of suffering physical, mental or emotional harm as a result of substance misuse by a parent or caregiver. They may also be children whose caretaker’s substance use interferes with the ability to parent and provide a safe and nurturing home.An estimated 165,847 Kansas children are living in environments where their parent or caregiver uses substances. In addition, approximately 3,781 infants are born exposed to substances in Kansas each year. The goal is to reduce the number of children who experience environments where substances are used by increasing identification of and improving the response to these children. This will include resources to families to help break the generational cycle of substance use disorder.The funding to form the alliance is part of a grant KDHE received from the U.S. Department of Justice awarded to Rise Up Reno Prevention Network.

Rise Up Reno forms Drug Endangered Children Alliance

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the burglary that occurred at Dough Co. Donuts earlier in the week.

After an investigation, HPD arrested Zackery L. Reaves on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10:45 p.m. for Burglary;Locked non-dwelling to commit felony, theft, dv, or sex; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or post release supervision.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734017343606.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Dough Co. Donuts - Hutchinson" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Dough Co. Donuts - Hutchinson</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department has made an arrest in connection with the burglary that occurred at Dough Co. Donuts earlier in the week.After an investigation, HPD arrested Zackery L. Reaves on Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10:45 p.m. for Burglary;Locked non-dwelling to commit felony, theft, dv, or sex; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or post release supervision.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fdoughcodonuts%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0VnXwfqeaN4x9754yEWppVfPq8KigwUFR5xmJSj88BKiLfBHQ5cTcaiX2teFh4tNyl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="689" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

HPD makes arrest in Dough Co. Donuts burglary

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 southeast corner of Bigger Avenue and South Maple.

One of the earliest public grade schools erected in Hutchinson was the Southside School, sometimes called the Maple Street School, in 1887. The first photo shows that school at its opening.

It served for 36 years. It had six rooms and later added six more. A Mrs. Moore was the first principal. The second photo shows Mrs. Cockey's third-grade class in 1902.

In 1923, a fine new school was constructed on the same property, just east of the first school. The third photo shows this school, named Lincoln Elementary.

It had 16 rooms and an auditorium. Grace Eastman was principal. This school served for 49 years. The fourth photo shows one of the well-used student classrooms with desks.

In 1972, the current Lincoln Elementary school was constructed on the same property. The fifth photo shows that school building today, now 52 years old.

In May 2023, the school board voted to close Lincoln and merge it with McCandless for the 2024 school year because of the lack of teacher applications. Currently, Lincoln Elementary is preschool only.

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/2024/12/1733931705359.png" alt="Maple Street School - 1903 - 301 E. Bigger (Southside 1887-1922, now Lincoln School). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Maple Street School - 1903 - 301 E. Bigger (Southside 1887-1922, now Lincoln School). 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 southeast corner of Bigger Avenue and South Maple.One of the earliest public grade schools erected in Hutchinson was the Southside School, sometimes called the Maple Street School, in 1887. The first photo shows that school at its opening.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733931705359.png" alt="Maple Street School - 1903 - 301 E. Bigger (Southside 1887-1922, now Lincoln School). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Maple Street School - 1903 - 301 E. Bigger (Southside 1887-1922, now Lincoln School). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>It served for 36 years. It had six rooms and later added six more. A Mrs. Moore was the first principal. The second photo shows Mrs. Cockey's third-grade class in 1902.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733931784326.png" alt="Maple Street School - Now Lincoln - 301 E. Bigger - Miss Cockey's Third-Grade Class - 1902. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Maple Street School - Now Lincoln - 301 E. Bigger - Miss Cockey's Third-Grade Class - 1902. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1923, a fine new school was constructed on the same property, just east of the first school. The third photo shows this school, named Lincoln Elementary.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733931832286.png" alt="Maple Street School - Lincoln Grade School Ext. Front - 1923-1972 - 315 E. Bigger (second of three, first was Maple St. School 1887-1922). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Maple Street School - Lincoln Grade School Ext. Front - 1923-1972 - 315 E. Bigger (second of three, first was Maple St. School 1887-1922). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>It had 16 rooms and an auditorium. Grace Eastman was principal. This school served for 49 years. The fourth photo shows one of the well-used student classrooms with desks.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733931906102.png" alt="Maple Street School - Lincoln Grade School Int. Classroom with Desks - 1923-1972 - 315 E. Bigger (second of three, first was Maple St. School 1887-1922). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Maple Street School - Lincoln Grade School Int. Classroom with Desks - 1923-1972 - 315 E. Bigger (second of three, first was Maple St. School 1887-1922). Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In 1972, the current Lincoln Elementary school was constructed on the same property. The fifth photo shows that school building today, now 52 years old.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733931972055.png" alt="Maple Street School - Lincoln Elementary School - 315 E. Bigger - Nov. 3, 2024. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection." />
 <figcaption>Maple Street School - Lincoln Elementary School - 315 E. Bigger - Nov. 3, 2024. Courtesy of the Conard-Harmon Collection.</figcaption>
 </figure>In May 2023, the school board voted to close Lincoln and merge it with McCandless for the 2024 school year because of the lack of teacher applications. Currently, Lincoln Elementary is preschool only.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: Lincoln Elementary - Vol. 100

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton gave the Board of County Commissioners an update on Wednesday on the stated goal of reducing the county's jail population.

"I told you back in May, I believe, when I spoke to you, that by June, I would have a policy in place. I would develop a policy for looking at a person's record and helping the courts determine what their bond should be. I did that," Stanton said. "I presented that policy to various entities within the county that would be involved, the sheriff and court services, and then to the courts, and then the courts shut me down. I was told by the court that they were looking at other options, and then right after I filed my update, I did receive an update from Judge Macke Dick, the administrative judge here in Reno County, who indicated to me that the court system, the Office of Judicial Administration, that's the Supreme Court and the state offices, have determined that they are going to come up with a policy for this. When it will happen, I don't know, but we were not able to implement our policy because they're going to be doing this."

Commissioners wanted to see if there was a way to put Stanton's policy into place temporarily until a statewide policy is implemented. He didn't know yet if that would be the case or not, as Judge Macke Dick is retiring in January, so there will be a new presiding judge, Daniel Gilligan, after that.

"The plan was to look at, we would have all of these different considerations that would be checkmarked, including things like the residence here, what kind of crime was committed, and basically criminal history and all sorts of different factors, and then to determine a score, and then that judge would use that score to set bail, and also to determine what kind of pretrial services somebody would have," Stanton said. "For example, if they're found to be bondable, the court could set a low bond and then get them out of jail but have them being supervised by court services."

If court services staff is not going to be authorized to ask the questions necessary to get the bonding information, commissioners asked if staff from either the Sheriff's Office or Horizons Mental Health Center could be allowed to ask the questions that would be needed to implement that bail score.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681236322749.jpeg" alt="Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton -File Photo by Sandra Milburn" />
 <figcaption>Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton -File Photo by Sandra Milburn</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton gave the Board of County Commissioners an update on Wednesday on the stated goal of reducing the county's jail population."I told you back in May, I believe, when I spoke to you, that by June, I would have a policy in place. I would develop a policy for looking at a person's record and helping the courts determine what their bond should be. I did that," Stanton said. "I presented that policy to various entities within the county that would be involved, the sheriff and court services, and then to the courts, and then the courts shut me down. I was told by the court that they were looking at other options, and then right after I filed my update, I did receive an update from Judge Macke Dick, the administrative judge here in Reno County, who indicated to me that the court system, the Office of Judicial Administration, that's the Supreme Court and the state offices, have determined that they are going to come up with a policy for this. When it will happen, I don't know, but we were not able to implement our policy because they're going to be doing this."Commissioners wanted to see if there was a way to put Stanton's policy into place temporarily until a statewide policy is implemented. He didn't know yet if that would be the case or not, as Judge Macke Dick is retiring in January, so there will be a new presiding judge, Daniel Gilligan, after that."The plan was to look at, we would have all of these different considerations that would be checkmarked, including things like the residence here, what kind of crime was committed, and basically criminal history and all sorts of different factors, and then to determine a score, and then that judge would use that score to set bail, and also to determine what kind of pretrial services somebody would have," Stanton said. "For example, if they're found to be bondable, the court could set a low bond and then get them out of jail but have them being supervised by court services."If court services staff is not going to be authorized to ask the questions necessary to get the bonding information, commissioners asked if staff from either the Sheriff's Office or Horizons Mental Health Center could be allowed to ask the questions that would be needed to implement that bail score.&nbsp;

Stanton's plan to reduce jail population on hold

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cause for Paws is starting the Hope in Hutchinson program to provide a safe and healthy environment for dogs and cats while their owners are in treatment for addiction.

Our pets love us unconditionally, even when we find it hard to love ourselves. It can seem impossible to leave our best friends behind while we get the help we need.

Until now, there hasn't been a solution locally for those seeking in-patient treatment or those transitioning from in-patient regarding the care of their pets. 

In many cases, either they place them in an unhealthy environment or surrender them to a shelter. "Hope in Hutchinson" offers an alternative.We take care of your best friend while you take care of yourself. 

We will celebrate your reunion with your pet alongside you.

Here is how it works. The pet parent will fill out an application with the pets' needs and preferences, vet information and emergency contact. The pet must be either spayed/neutered or the parent must agree to allow (Cause for Paws CFP) to have the pets spayed/neutered by a CFP approved veterinarian. CFP will provide veterinarian care including current vaccinations as needed. 

If the pet parent does not return to resume custody of their pet, the pet will be considered surrendered to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.The program is open to Hutchinson and South Hutchinson residents only. 

Please share our program with anyone you think may need this service. 

Please consider fostering or donating to support this much needed program. Go to <a href="http://www.causeforpawsinc.com">www.causeforpawsinc.com</a> and click on the "Hope in Hutchinson" link to fill out the brief "interest" form to either be a foster parent or find a foster for your pet.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733998155120.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Cause for PawsHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Cause for Paws is starting the Hope in Hutchinson program to provide a safe and healthy environment for dogs and cats while their owners are in treatment for addiction.Our pets love us unconditionally, even when we find it hard to love ourselves. It can seem impossible to leave our best friends behind while we get the help we need.Until now, there hasn't been a solution locally for those seeking in-patient treatment or those transitioning from in-patient regarding the care of their pets. In many cases, either they place them in an unhealthy environment or surrender them to a shelter. "Hope in Hutchinson" offers an alternative.We take care of your best friend while you take care of yourself. We will celebrate your reunion with your pet alongside you.Here is how it works. The pet parent will fill out an application with the pets' needs and preferences, vet information and emergency contact. The pet must be either spayed/neutered or the parent must agree to allow (Cause for Paws CFP) to have the pets spayed/neutered by a CFP approved veterinarian. CFP will provide veterinarian care including current vaccinations as needed. If the pet parent does not return to resume custody of their pet, the pet will be considered surrendered to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.The program is open to Hutchinson and South Hutchinson residents only. Please share our program with anyone you think may need this service. Please consider fostering or donating to support this much needed program. Go to <a href="http://www.causeforpawsinc.com">www.causeforpawsinc.com</a> and click on the "Hope in Hutchinson" link to fill out the brief "interest" form to either be a foster parent or find a foster for your pet.

Cause for Paws starting new program

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community Foundation is now accepting proposals for 2025 Youth Philanthropy Council and Charles E. Carey Memorial Fund grants.

Each spring the Youth Philanthropy Council, made up of Reno County high school students, distributes approximately $5,000 in grants to youth-serving organizations from the Richard W. Dillon Memorial Fund for Youth Philanthropy.

Carey Memorial Fund grants are aimed at strengthening the community in the areas of arts and culture, education, and health.

The deadline to submit proposals for YPC grants is 11:59 p.m. Jan. 15, and the deadline for Carey Memorial Fund grant proposals is 11:59 p.m. Jan. 31. Grants will be awarded in March.

To review guidelines and apply, visit hutchcf.org/nonprofitsandgrants/available-grants. For questions, contact Program Officer Sarah Blake,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hutchcf.org">sarah@hutchcf.org</a>&nbsp;or 620-663-5293.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722557754618.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Community FoundationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Community Foundation is now accepting proposals for 2025 Youth Philanthropy Council and Charles E. Carey Memorial Fund grants.Each spring the Youth Philanthropy Council, made up of Reno County high school students, distributes approximately $5,000 in grants to youth-serving organizations from the Richard W. Dillon Memorial Fund for Youth Philanthropy.Carey Memorial Fund grants are aimed at strengthening the community in the areas of arts and culture, education, and health.The deadline to submit proposals for YPC grants is 11:59 p.m. Jan. 15, and the deadline for Carey Memorial Fund grant proposals is 11:59 p.m. Jan. 31. Grants will be awarded in March.To review guidelines and apply, visit hutchcf.org/nonprofitsandgrants/available-grants. For questions, contact Program Officer Sarah Blake,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:sarah@hutchcf.org">sarah@hutchcf.org</a>&nbsp;or 620-663-5293.

Reno County agencies, groups invited to apply for YPC, Carey Memorial Fund grants

HARVEY COUNTY—One person was injred in an accident just after 4 p.m. Wednesday in Harvey County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Toyota Rav4 driven by Analy Berdadero&nbsp;Oakes, 53, Newton, was northbound on Interstate 135 just north of 125th Street. The driver swerved to avoid road debris. 

The driver had little time to react and the vehicle struck a ladder in the left lane, entered the median, struck the guardrail and rolled.

EMS transported Oakes to Newton Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1651659595905.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—One person was injred in an accident just after 4 p.m. Wednesday in Harvey County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2022 Toyota Rav4 driven by Analy Berdadero&nbsp;Oakes, 53, Newton, was northbound on Interstate 135 just north of 125th Street. The driver swerved to avoid road debris. The driver had little time to react and the vehicle struck a ladder in the left lane, entered the median, struck the guardrail and rolled.EMS transported Oakes to Newton Medical Center. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Newton woman hospitalized after SUV strikes ladder, rolls

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The donations from EAGLE Media listeners for the KU basketball posters were given to the United Way of Reno County this week and they totaled over $1600.

EAGLE has been accepting $10 suggested donations for the posters over the last month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687976834535.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The donations from EAGLE Media listeners for the KU basketball posters were given to the United Way of Reno County this week and they totaled over $1600.EAGLE has been accepting $10 suggested donations for the posters over the last month.

KU posters net over $1600

NEWTON, Kan. — As part of this week's Newton City Commission meeting, commissioners received an update on the depot in town.

The depot is still listed for sale for $1.5 million. The depot’s owner has received feedback that the listing price may be prohibitive given the repair work needed on the building. The listing agent has been advocating for City involvement in the sale, but City staff has recommended the City continue to monitor and offer support to potential private sector buyers.

Amtrak is moving forward with plans to reconstruct the depot’s deck/platform to improve lighting, safety and accessibility in the next 1-2 years. The project will not reduce parking at the depot or at City Hall, although portions of the City Hall lot may be used temporarily as a staging area during construction.

The Kansas Department of Transportation is also moving forward with planning for the Heartland Flyer extension, which would connect Newton with Oklahoma City and Fort Worth.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663103887561.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ERIN MCDANIEL City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — As part of this week's Newton City Commission meeting, commissioners received an update on the depot in town.The depot is still listed for sale for $1.5 million. The depot’s owner has received feedback that the listing price may be prohibitive given the repair work needed on the building. The listing agent has been advocating for City involvement in the sale, but City staff has recommended the City continue to monitor and offer support to potential private sector buyers.Amtrak is moving forward with plans to reconstruct the depot’s deck/platform to improve lighting, safety and accessibility in the next 1-2 years. The project will not reduce parking at the depot or at City Hall, although portions of the City Hall lot may be used temporarily as a staging area during construction.The Kansas Department of Transportation is also moving forward with planning for the Heartland Flyer extension, which would connect Newton with Oklahoma City and Fort Worth.

Newton receives Amtrak update

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the 12 Days of Ringing began Wednesday for the Hutchinson Salvation Army, they needed quite a bit of assistance to reach their goal.

"We always do a 12 Days of Ringing in honor of the 12 days of Christmas," said Major Paul James. "We have $42,304.46 left to reach the goal. I think we were close to that a couple of years ago with down the stretch, which is a little bit nerve wracking because that means we need to raise about $3,500 each day. We've been averaging about $2,400 each day. We'll definitely need some extra support down the stretch."

In addition, they have an even bigger need for their overall goal.

"Our overall goal is $355,000," James said. "We're currently about $100,000, which is probably a little bit sort of on pace, but behind. We're probably about $10,000 behind pace where we've been the last couple of years. Last year, I think we were behind about $10,000 as well."

The need continues to be great in the Hutchinson area.

"We have 900 families that are registered for food baskets, but 1100 kids that are signed up for toys," James said. "That's a hundred more kids than last year. Larger families is kind of the, I think the difference between that, but definitely a lot of families that are in need this time of year. We help families throughout the year, whether it's rent and utility assistance, whether it's showers for the unhoused and many other things that we do throughout the year to help our community. The Salvation Army has been in the community for 131 years, helping people in need."

There were 92 $20 donations given toward the match last Saturday, and there will be another $20 match day this Saturday where donors can double their contribution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731599525507.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — As the 12 Days of Ringing began Wednesday for the Hutchinson Salvation Army, they needed quite a bit of assistance to reach their goal."We always do a 12 Days of Ringing in honor of the 12 days of Christmas," said Major Paul James. "We have $42,304.46 left to reach the goal. I think we were close to that a couple of years ago with down the stretch, which is a little bit nerve wracking because that means we need to raise about $3,500 each day. We've been averaging about $2,400 each day. We'll definitely need some extra support down the stretch."In addition, they have an even bigger need for their overall goal."Our overall goal is $355,000," James said. "We're currently about $100,000, which is probably a little bit sort of on pace, but behind. We're probably about $10,000 behind pace where we've been the last couple of years. Last year, I think we were behind about $10,000 as well."The need continues to be great in the Hutchinson area."We have 900 families that are registered for food baskets, but 1100 kids that are signed up for toys," James said. "That's a hundred more kids than last year. Larger families is kind of the, I think the difference between that, but definitely a lot of families that are in need this time of year. We help families throughout the year, whether it's rent and utility assistance, whether it's showers for the unhoused and many other things that we do throughout the year to help our community. The Salvation Army has been in the community for 131 years, helping people in need."There were 92 $20 donations given toward the match last Saturday, and there will be another $20 match day this Saturday where donors can double their contribution.

Salvation Army needs lots of support this Christmas

WASHINGTON (AP) —Albertsons is giving up on its merger with Kroger a day after it was rejected in two courts and it is suing the grocery chain, saying it didn't do enough to secure regulatory approval for the $24.6 billion agreement.

U.S. District Court Judge Adrienne Nelson issued a preliminary injunction blocking the merger Tuesday after holding a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">three-week hearing</a>&nbsp;in Portland, Oregon. Then Judge Marshall Ferguson in Seattle issued a permanent injunction barring the merger in Washington after concluding it would lessen competition in the state and violate Washington’s consumer-protection laws.

On Wednesday Albertsons said that Kroger failed to exercise “best efforts” and to take “any and all actions” to secure regulatory approval of the companies’ agreed merger transaction.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like Dillons, Ralphs, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.

Shares of Albertsons rose more than 2% before the market open, while Kroger's stock declined slightly.

PORTLAND, Ore (AP) —The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-83245c5cb38a99e329e439af01d2a2e5">proposed merger</a>&nbsp;between supermarket giants Kroger and Albertsons floundered on Tuesday after judges overseeing two separate cases both halted the deal.

U.S. District Court Judge Adrienne Nelson issued a preliminary injunction blocking the merger Tuesday after holding a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">three-week hearing</a>&nbsp;in Portland, Oregon.

Later Tuesday, Judge Marshall Ferguson in Seattle issued a permanent injunction barring the merger in Washington after concluding it would lessen competition in the state and violate Washington's consumer-protection laws.

Kroger and Albertsons said Tuesday they are disappointed in the decisions and are reviewing their options. The companies could appeal, although the deal could fall apart in the time it would take for those cases to be considered.

“For the parties, the road gets steeper from here, just given the costs of keeping a deal together and the significant doubts about its viability given today’s opinion," said Jeffrey Oliver, a partner specializing in antitrust law at the law firm Baker Botts.

Kroger and Albertsons in 2022 proposed what would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">largest grocery store merger</a>&nbsp;in U.S. history.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/albertsons-kroger-merger-hearing-f134271ada4f0b8e347e53a626404083">The companies said</a>&nbsp;a merger would help them better compete with big retailers like Walmart, Costco and Amazon.

But the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-antitrust-grocery-merger-competition-71b47dc86ec7449f29b2b488c1d3f9de">Federal Trade Commission sued</a>&nbsp;earlier this year, asking Nelson to block the $24.6 billion deal until an in-house administrative judge at the FTC could consider the merger. Attorneys general from Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Wyoming and the District of Columbia joined the FTC's lawsuit.

Nelson agreed to pause the merger, saying that the FTC had shown it was likely to prevail in the administrative hearing.

“Any harms defendants experience as a result of the injunction do not overcome the strong public interest in the enforcement of antitrust law, especially given the difficulty in disentangling a premature merger,” she wrote in her opinion.

The FTC called Nelson’s decision “a major victory for the American people" that will protect them from higher grocery prices. In Washington, Governor-elect Bob Ferguson, who brought the case against Kroger and Albertsons as the state’s attorney general, called the state court’s decision “an important victory for affordability, worker protections and the rule of law.”

Federal regulators argued that combining the two chains would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-antitrust-3ba6eba066636626c4bdc6cd4f73fa29">bad for consumers and workers</a>&nbsp;by eliminating competition.

A coalition of United Food and Commercial Workers local unions representing more than 100,000 Kroger and Albertsons employees applauded the court decisions Tuesday.

“This mega-merger would be bad for workers who deserve a workplace where they can be paid well for their labor, be safe and be respected,” the unions said.

Kroger had promised to invest $1 billion in lower grocery prices, an additional $1 billion in higher grocery worker wages and $1.3 billion to improve Albertsons stores. But Nelson wasn't swayed.

“The promise to make a price investment is not legally binding, and the court must give limited weight to a non-binding promise made during these proceedings,” she wrote in her decision. Nelson added that the companies can still invest in lower prices if the FTC approves the merger in its administrative hearings.

The federal case now moves to the FTC, although Kroger and Albertsons have asked a different federal judge to block the in-house proceedings.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">Colorado</a>&nbsp;is also trying to halt the merger in its own state trial.

On Tuesday, President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-ferguson-federal-trade-commission-trump-khan-695d34974cb09387e0c3ec6757754eac">Donald Trump named Andrew Ferguson</a>, an FTC commissioner, as the next head of the FTC. He replaces Lina Khan, who was an aggressive enforcer of antitrust law. Still, it's not clear what impact the change in administrations will have on Kroger and Albertsons' proposed merger.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-grocery-prices-inflation-economy-b69a367ebb7dafe416b8f99b94256cf5">High grocery prices</a>&nbsp;have been a significant issue for voters, and in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-prices-alex-padilla-congress-rodney-mcmullen-54929ed8d702642fbc33269fb69b0373">past hearings</a>, lawmakers from both parties were skeptical that the merger would lower prices.

Kroger and Albertsons currently compete in 22 states, closely matching each other on price, quality, private label products and services like store pickup. The FTC and the state of Washington argued that a merger would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-federal-trade-commission-2fda44d9d8b82ef20d6c7e7cffb2ccc3">eliminate that competition</a>&nbsp;and raise prices for already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af">struggling consumers</a>. The FTC also said the merger would hurt workers since Kroger and Albertsons would no longer compete to hire them.

But Kroger and Albertsons argued their merger would preserve consumer choice by allowing them to better compete against its growing rivals. In its testimony,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">Albertsons warned Nelson</a>&nbsp;that it might have to lay off workers, close stores and even exit some markets if the merger weren't allowed to proceed.

Under the merger agreement, Kroger and Albertsons would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their locations overlap to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers</a>, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and Piggly Wiggly store brands.

The FTC and the state of Washington argued that C&amp;S is ill-prepared to take on the stores and may want the option to sell or close them. Both judges agreed.

“The current competition between Kroger and Albertsons' stores is fierce in the state of Washington," Ferguson said in court before his ruling was released. "Wholesaler C&amp;S, with its limited retail experience and infrastructure, will not be able to replicate the ferocity of that competition or compete effectively in Washington against the colossus that is a merged Kroger and Albertsons.”

Shares in Kroger Co. rose 5% in trading Tuesday, while those in Albertsons Co. fell 2%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724718577355.png" alt="Photo from an August press conference courtesy United Food and commercial workers union local 3000" />
 <figcaption>Photo from an August press conference courtesy United Food and commercial workers union local 3000</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Albertsons is giving up on its merger with Kroger a day after it was rejected in two courts and it is suing the grocery chain, saying it didn't do enough to secure regulatory approval for the $24.6 billion agreement.U.S. District Court Judge Adrienne Nelson issued a preliminary injunction blocking the merger Tuesday after holding a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">three-week hearing</a>&nbsp;in Portland, Oregon. Then Judge Marshall Ferguson in Seattle issued a permanent injunction barring the merger in Washington after concluding it would lessen competition in the state and violate Washington’s consumer-protection laws.On Wednesday Albertsons said that Kroger failed to exercise “best efforts” and to take “any and all actions” to secure regulatory approval of the companies’ agreed merger transaction.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like Dillons, Ralphs, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.Shares of Albertsons rose more than 2% before the market open, while Kroger's stock declined slightly.PORTLAND, Ore (AP) —The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-83245c5cb38a99e329e439af01d2a2e5">proposed merger</a>&nbsp;between supermarket giants Kroger and Albertsons floundered on Tuesday after judges overseeing two separate cases both halted the deal.U.S. District Court Judge Adrienne Nelson issued a preliminary injunction blocking the merger Tuesday after holding a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">three-week hearing</a>&nbsp;in Portland, Oregon.Later Tuesday, Judge Marshall Ferguson in Seattle issued a permanent injunction barring the merger in Washington after concluding it would lessen competition in the state and violate Washington's consumer-protection laws.Kroger and Albertsons said Tuesday they are disappointed in the decisions and are reviewing their options. The companies could appeal, although the deal could fall apart in the time it would take for those cases to be considered.“For the parties, the road gets steeper from here, just given the costs of keeping a deal together and the significant doubts about its viability given today’s opinion," said Jeffrey Oliver, a partner specializing in antitrust law at the law firm Baker Botts.Kroger and Albertsons in 2022 proposed what would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">largest grocery store merger</a>&nbsp;in U.S. history.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/albertsons-kroger-merger-hearing-f134271ada4f0b8e347e53a626404083">The companies said</a>&nbsp;a merger would help them better compete with big retailers like Walmart, Costco and Amazon.But the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-antitrust-grocery-merger-competition-71b47dc86ec7449f29b2b488c1d3f9de">Federal Trade Commission sued</a>&nbsp;earlier this year, asking Nelson to block the $24.6 billion deal until an in-house administrative judge at the FTC could consider the merger. Attorneys general from Arizona, California, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Wyoming and the District of Columbia joined the FTC's lawsuit.Nelson agreed to pause the merger, saying that the FTC had shown it was likely to prevail in the administrative hearing.“Any harms defendants experience as a result of the injunction do not overcome the strong public interest in the enforcement of antitrust law, especially given the difficulty in disentangling a premature merger,” she wrote in her opinion.The FTC called Nelson’s decision “a major victory for the American people" that will protect them from higher grocery prices. In Washington, Governor-elect Bob Ferguson, who brought the case against Kroger and Albertsons as the state’s attorney general, called the state court’s decision “an important victory for affordability, worker protections and the rule of law.”Federal regulators argued that combining the two chains would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-antitrust-3ba6eba066636626c4bdc6cd4f73fa29">bad for consumers and workers</a>&nbsp;by eliminating competition.A coalition of United Food and Commercial Workers local unions representing more than 100,000 Kroger and Albertsons employees applauded the court decisions Tuesday.“This mega-merger would be bad for workers who deserve a workplace where they can be paid well for their labor, be safe and be respected,” the unions said.Kroger had promised to invest $1 billion in lower grocery prices, an additional $1 billion in higher grocery worker wages and $1.3 billion to improve Albertsons stores. But Nelson wasn't swayed.“The promise to make a price investment is not legally binding, and the court must give limited weight to a non-binding promise made during these proceedings,” she wrote in her decision. Nelson added that the companies can still invest in lower prices if the FTC approves the merger in its administrative hearings.The federal case now moves to the FTC, although Kroger and Albertsons have asked a different federal judge to block the in-house proceedings.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">Colorado</a>&nbsp;is also trying to halt the merger in its own state trial.On Tuesday, President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/andrew-ferguson-federal-trade-commission-trump-khan-695d34974cb09387e0c3ec6757754eac">Donald Trump named Andrew Ferguson</a>, an FTC commissioner, as the next head of the FTC. He replaces Lina Khan, who was an aggressive enforcer of antitrust law. Still, it's not clear what impact the change in administrations will have on Kroger and Albertsons' proposed merger.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-grocery-prices-inflation-economy-b69a367ebb7dafe416b8f99b94256cf5">High grocery prices</a>&nbsp;have been a significant issue for voters, and in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-prices-alex-padilla-congress-rodney-mcmullen-54929ed8d702642fbc33269fb69b0373">past hearings</a>, lawmakers from both parties were skeptical that the merger would lower prices.Kroger and Albertsons currently compete in 22 states, closely matching each other on price, quality, private label products and services like store pickup. The FTC and the state of Washington argued that a merger would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-federal-trade-commission-2fda44d9d8b82ef20d6c7e7cffb2ccc3">eliminate that competition</a>&nbsp;and raise prices for already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af">struggling consumers</a>. The FTC also said the merger would hurt workers since Kroger and Albertsons would no longer compete to hire them.But Kroger and Albertsons argued their merger would preserve consumer choice by allowing them to better compete against its growing rivals. In its testimony,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-grocery-merger-ftc-9fdb26cc044ee21a7a486c03caae6a5d">Albertsons warned Nelson</a>&nbsp;that it might have to lay off workers, close stores and even exit some markets if the merger weren't allowed to proceed.Under the merger agreement, Kroger and Albertsons would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their locations overlap to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers</a>, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and Piggly Wiggly store brands.The FTC and the state of Washington argued that C&amp;S is ill-prepared to take on the stores and may want the option to sell or close them. Both judges agreed.“The current competition between Kroger and Albertsons' stores is fierce in the state of Washington," Ferguson said in court before his ruling was released. "Wholesaler C&amp;S, with its limited retail experience and infrastructure, will not be able to replicate the ferocity of that competition or compete effectively in Washington against the colossus that is a merged Kroger and Albertsons.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like Dillons, Ralphs, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.Shares in Kroger Co. rose 5% in trading Tuesday, while those in Albertsons Co. fell 2%.

Update: Albertsons suing Kroger since merger is scuttled

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton said his annual toy drive was a big success in 2024. 

"We got a lot of toys on this drive," Stanton said. "We collected 819 toys, cash of $150.28. We had 126 hats, 2 scarves, 3 ear warmers, 5 blankets, and 2 pairs of socks. And so that, it was a total of 23 boxes. The most we'd ever had before was 20. And that was in 2020. And we had, it was, that was a COVID year, and we had drives out on the front steps to have people bring stuff by, and we were able to fill a lot of toys, a lot of boxes that year."

"Next year is the 25th anniversary, and we've already got plans," Stanton said. "We're going to make it even bigger and better next year, but this is by far the most successful toy drive we've had in the 24 years that we've been doing it, so I was very pleased. And Toys for Tots was extremely pleased as well. They had a hard time figuring out how they were going to get all the boxes out of the courthouse and delivered. That was something that was really good. My staff really enjoys doing that, and it's just a fun thing to do."

There were boxes in more locations this year, including in all of the Heartland Credit Union branches.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607768904216.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County District Attorney Tom Stanton said his annual toy drive was a big success in 2024. "We got a lot of toys on this drive," Stanton said. "We collected 819 toys, cash of $150.28. We had 126 hats, 2 scarves, 3 ear warmers, 5 blankets, and 2 pairs of socks. And so that, it was a total of 23 boxes. The most we'd ever had before was 20. And that was in 2020. And we had, it was, that was a COVID year, and we had drives out on the front steps to have people bring stuff by, and we were able to fill a lot of toys, a lot of boxes that year."He's already looking ahead to 2025."Next year is the 25th anniversary, and we've already got plans," Stanton said. "We're going to make it even bigger and better next year, but this is by far the most successful toy drive we've had in the 24 years that we've been doing it, so I was very pleased. And Toys for Tots was extremely pleased as well. They had a hard time figuring out how they were going to get all the boxes out of the courthouse and delivered. That was something that was really good. My staff really enjoys doing that, and it's just a fun thing to do."There were boxes in more locations this year, including in all of the Heartland Credit Union branches.

Toy drive has most boxes ever

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — On behalf&nbsp;of&nbsp;Reins of Hope Therapeutic Riding Program,&nbsp;we would like to thank you for your support&nbsp;of our program&nbsp;for the last 30 years! Yes, along with our Annual Jingle and Mingle Open House and Fund Raiser, we are celebrating our 30 Year Anniversary serving our community!&nbsp;&nbsp;Please plan to join us!

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.&nbsp; Open House and Silent Auction

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Catered BBQ Meal with drinks and dessert included (free will donations accepted)

Pictures with our “horse therapists” available.

Location:&nbsp;Reins of Hope,&nbsp;Roy Coffee Arena,&nbsp;2116 N. Obee Road, Hutchinson, KS

Reins of Hope is a&nbsp;Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship&nbsp;(PATH),&nbsp;certified&nbsp;therapeutic horseback riding program,&nbsp;that works to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Founded in 1994, we serve individuals with physical, mental, and emotional challenges of all ages.&nbsp;

For 30 years,&nbsp;God has blessed our program and&nbsp;we have never turned a participant away due to inability to pay. In fact, with the generous support of the community,&nbsp;we have never raised our rates. We charge&nbsp;just&nbsp;$5.00 for a 30-minute session&nbsp;–&nbsp;the same as the day we started. We believe that access to this life-giving therapy should be available to all who need it. &nbsp;

We appreciate&nbsp;past&nbsp;the&nbsp;support our community and supporters have given us.&nbsp; Thanks to you,&nbsp;we have been able to provide our students with professional, safe and targeted services to meet the individual needs of our learners.&nbsp;

We welcome&nbsp;your silent&nbsp;auction&nbsp;items, and monetary donations.&nbsp; If you are&nbsp;unable to attend,&nbsp;please mail&nbsp;your donation to:&nbsp;

Please call the center, (620) 665-0906 if you have questions or&nbsp;wish to donate items to the auction.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701378529665.jpeg" alt="File Photo Courtesy Reins of Hope" />
 <figcaption>File Photo Courtesy Reins of Hope</figcaption>
 </figure>JANE HARDER Reins of HopeHUTCHINSON, Kan. — On behalf&nbsp;of&nbsp;Reins of Hope Therapeutic Riding Program,&nbsp;we would like to thank you for your support&nbsp;of our program&nbsp;for the last 30 years! Yes, along with our Annual Jingle and Mingle Open House and Fund Raiser, we are celebrating our 30 Year Anniversary serving our community!&nbsp;&nbsp;Please plan to join us!December 14, 202410:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.&nbsp; Open House and Silent Auction11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Catered BBQ Meal with drinks and dessert included (free will donations accepted)Pictures with our “horse therapists” available.Location:&nbsp;Reins of Hope,&nbsp;Roy Coffee Arena,&nbsp;2116 N. Obee Road, Hutchinson, KSReins of Hope is a&nbsp;Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship&nbsp;(PATH),&nbsp;certified&nbsp;therapeutic horseback riding program,&nbsp;that works to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Founded in 1994, we serve individuals with physical, mental, and emotional challenges of all ages.&nbsp;For 30 years,&nbsp;God has blessed our program and&nbsp;we have never turned a participant away due to inability to pay. In fact, with the generous support of the community,&nbsp;we have never raised our rates. We charge&nbsp;just&nbsp;$5.00 for a 30-minute session&nbsp;–&nbsp;the same as the day we started. We believe that access to this life-giving therapy should be available to all who need it. &nbsp;We appreciate&nbsp;past&nbsp;the&nbsp;support our community and supporters have given us.&nbsp; Thanks to you,&nbsp;we have been able to provide our students with professional, safe and targeted services to meet the individual needs of our learners.&nbsp;We welcome&nbsp;your silent&nbsp;auction&nbsp;items, and monetary donations.&nbsp; If you are&nbsp;unable to attend,&nbsp;please mail&nbsp;your donation to:&nbsp;Reins of HopePO Box 57Hutchinson, KS&nbsp;67504-0057Please call the center, (620) 665-0906 if you have questions or&nbsp;wish to donate items to the auction.&nbsp;

Reins of Hope to celebrate 30th this weekend

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank wants his office to assess everyone's property as accurately as possible, because then everyone will pay what they should, by law.

"We like to have our data as correct as possible," Plank said. "The better our data is, the better of a product that we can put out. The minimum inspection requirement is once every six years. You can get exceptions from the state and Reno County actually does have one where we can utilize aerial photography and things like that in lieu of an inspection. It's obviously better, you can get a better idea of the overall condition of a property, things like that just just from a from a quick walk around. Hey if somebody's home, we'll knock on the doors if somebody's home. We love to talk to people, too, and just confirm the data that we have on record and if we need to make changes then we'll take that opportunity to make any changes."

It is easier to have accurate data in the zoned areas of the county.

"We do get permits and things like that from cities and other jurisdictions," Plank said. "In the in the unzoned areas, I mean it's just simple, we have to literally drive around or utilize the aerial photography or something to look for things that are different and then add them to the tax roll or to take them off the tax roll in some cases, or whatever we need to do with them."

You are not legally required to tell the appraiser what changes you have made to real estate, but if you buy assessable personal property like a boat, you are required to tell them that.&nbsp;

"If you have a boat or a mobile home or a golf cart or an ATV, UTV or a trailer that is on the personal property roll and you sell it, let us know so we can take it off the tax roll for you for next year," Plank said. "If you don't, you're gonna keep getting tax bills and just ignoring them because you know, I don't own this anymore is not the way to handle that and it just it makes things more complicated to get them off the tax roll."

If you have questions for the appraiser's office, give them a call at (620) 694-2915.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733330895091.jpeg" alt="Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank-File photo by Sandra Milburn." />
 <figcaption>Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank-File photo by Sandra Milburn.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County Appraiser Michael Plank wants his office to assess everyone's property as accurately as possible, because then everyone will pay what they should, by law."We like to have our data as correct as possible," Plank said. "The better our data is, the better of a product that we can put out. The minimum inspection requirement is once every six years. You can get exceptions from the state and Reno County actually does have one where we can utilize aerial photography and things like that in lieu of an inspection. It's obviously better, you can get a better idea of the overall condition of a property, things like that just just from a from a quick walk around. Hey if somebody's home, we'll knock on the doors if somebody's home. We love to talk to people, too, and just confirm the data that we have on record and if we need to make changes then we'll take that opportunity to make any changes."It is easier to have accurate data in the zoned areas of the county."We do get permits and things like that from cities and other jurisdictions," Plank said. "In the in the unzoned areas, I mean it's just simple, we have to literally drive around or utilize the aerial photography or something to look for things that are different and then add them to the tax roll or to take them off the tax roll in some cases, or whatever we need to do with them."You are not legally required to tell the appraiser what changes you have made to real estate, but if you buy assessable personal property like a boat, you are required to tell them that.&nbsp;"If you have a boat or a mobile home or a golf cart or an ATV, UTV or a trailer that is on the personal property roll and you sell it, let us know so we can take it off the tax roll for you for next year," Plank said. "If you don't, you're gonna keep getting tax bills and just ignoring them because you know, I don't own this anymore is not the way to handle that and it just it makes things more complicated to get them off the tax roll."If you have questions for the appraiser's office, give them a call at (620) 694-2915.

County appraiser: 'We're only as good as the data that we have'

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson outlined their plans for inclement weather on social media this week. Those plans are below.

As winter approaches, here's what you can expect from the City of Hutchinson Public Works snow response team. The City tracks five different storm conditions, each with a specific response to keep roads safe:

Condition I (Light Ice) – Occurs 6-8 times/year

Response: Light mist causes ice on bridges &amp; overpasses. 2-3 salt spreaders treat affected areas.

Condition II (Ice Rain) – Occurs 1-3 times/year

Response: Rain turns to ice (up to ½ inch). Full salt application (300 lbs/ lane mile), 8 spreaders &amp; 1 snow boss monitor. Additional staff may be needed for traffic control and downed trees/power lines.

Condition III (Light Snow) – Occurs 6-8 times/year

Response: 1-3 inches of snow. Begin plowing at 1-2 inches, followed by light salting. 8 spreaders and 1 snow boss monitor. Major streets are prioritized, with 4 V-plows clearing residential streets.

Condition IV (Heavy Snow) – Occurs 0-3 times/year

Response: 4-8 inches of snow with drifting. Same as Condition III, but additional equipment (graders &amp; loaders) is used to widen streets and clear intersections. Snow may be hauled off if necessary.

Condition V (Blizzard) – Occurs 0-2 times/year

Response: Snow removal paused during storm for emergency vehicles. Same response as Conditions III and IV. Full snow removal begins after the storm, possibly with contractors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729086734517.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>City of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson outlined their plans for inclement weather on social media this week. Those plans are below.As winter approaches, here's what you can expect from the City of Hutchinson Public Works snow response team. The City tracks five different storm conditions, each with a specific response to keep roads safe:Condition I (Light Ice) – Occurs 6-8 times/yearResponse: Light mist causes ice on bridges &amp; overpasses. 2-3 salt spreaders treat affected areas.Condition II (Ice Rain) – Occurs 1-3 times/yearResponse: Rain turns to ice (up to ½ inch). Full salt application (300 lbs/ lane mile), 8 spreaders &amp; 1 snow boss monitor. Additional staff may be needed for traffic control and downed trees/power lines.Condition III (Light Snow) – Occurs 6-8 times/yearResponse: 1-3 inches of snow. Begin plowing at 1-2 inches, followed by light salting. 8 spreaders and 1 snow boss monitor. Major streets are prioritized, with 4 V-plows clearing residential streets.Condition IV (Heavy Snow) – Occurs 0-3 times/yearResponse: 4-8 inches of snow with drifting. Same as Condition III, but additional equipment (graders &amp; loaders) is used to widen streets and clear intersections. Snow may be hauled off if necessary.Condition V (Blizzard) – Occurs 0-2 times/yearResponse: Snow removal paused during storm for emergency vehicles. Same response as Conditions III and IV. Full snow removal begins after the storm, possibly with contractors.

City of Hutch reminds public of snow plan

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 2024 Christmas in the Country event connected with the Kansas Beef Expo is on the Kansas State Fairgrounds this weekend, Dec. 13-15.

The free event is open to the public in the Prairie Pavilion on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

The event will have Christmas Decor • Western Artwork • Women's, Men's and Children's Clothing • Unique Western Gifts and Jewelry

Santa will be at Christmas in the Country on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733874251807.jpeg" alt="Kansas Beef Expo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Beef Expo</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The 2024 Christmas in the Country event connected with the Kansas Beef Expo is on the Kansas State Fairgrounds this weekend, Dec. 13-15.The free event is open to the public in the Prairie Pavilion on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.The event will have Christmas Decor • Western Artwork • Women's, Men's and Children's Clothing • Unique Western Gifts and JewelrySanta will be at Christmas in the Country on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Christmas in the Country this weekend

SANDRA MILBURN Reno County Communications Specialist

YODER, Kan. — Nitrate levels have continued to be above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. 

The last nitrate level test was collected on December 4, 2024. The level tested at 10.9 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. The nitrate levels in water resources have fluctuated in many areas which come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off).

Reno County provides routine notices for acute nitrate violations from KDHE. These notices provide Yoder residents education about nitrates in drinking water. Subsequent notices were sent informing residents that bottled water will be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants under 6 months, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.  

The Rural Water District will continue the KDHE required quarterly samples and public notifications until this issue is resolved. We appreciate your patience.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715885134534.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SANDRA MILBURN Reno County Communications SpecialistYODER, Kan. — Nitrate levels have continued to be above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The last nitrate level test was collected on December 4, 2024. The level tested at 10.9 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. The nitrate levels in water resources have fluctuated in many areas which come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off).Reno County provides routine notices for acute nitrate violations from KDHE. These notices provide Yoder residents education about nitrates in drinking water. Subsequent notices were sent informing residents that bottled water will be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants under 6 months, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider. The Rural Water District will continue the KDHE required quarterly samples and public notifications until this issue is resolved. We appreciate your patience.

District 101 nitrate levels still high

Kansas Department of Transportation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Transportation announced approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 20, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.

McPherson County‑ 4‑59 KA‑7537‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/McPherson county line east and north to the McPherson/Saline county line (exclude the city of Lindsborg), milling and overlay, 15.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,310,335.50.

Rice County‑ 56‑80 KA‑6455‑01 – U.S. 56 at two locations - beginning 0.25 mile east of 10th Road, east to 0.14 mile east of 11th Road, guard fence, 1.0 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $568,091.25.

The following Hutch Post area projects have been approved from the Oct. 16, 2024, letting:

Harvey County ‑ 50‑40 KA‑7460‑01 – U.S. 50, hot mix asphalt south of the I‑135/U.S. 50 junction east to the Harvey/Marion county line, milling and overlay, 11.7 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,705,193.91.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724428131694.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Transportation announced approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects. The letting took place Nov. 20, 2024, in Topeka. Some of the bids may include multiple projects that have been bundled based on proximity and type of work.Hutch Post area projects include:&nbsp;McPherson County‑ 4‑59 KA‑7537‑01 ‑ K‑4, beginning at the Ellsworth/McPherson county line east and north to the McPherson/Saline county line (exclude the city of Lindsborg), milling and overlay, 15.7 miles, Venture Corporation, Great Bend, Kansas, $3,310,335.50.Rice County‑ 56‑80 KA‑6455‑01 – U.S. 56 at two locations - beginning 0.25 mile east of 10th Road, east to 0.14 mile east of 11th Road, guard fence, 1.0 mile, L &amp; M Contractors Inc., Great Bend, Kansas, $568,091.25.The following Hutch Post area projects have been approved from the Oct. 16, 2024, letting:Harvey County ‑ 50‑40 KA‑7460‑01 – U.S. 50, hot mix asphalt south of the I‑135/U.S. 50 junction east to the Harvey/Marion county line, milling and overlay, 11.7 miles, APAC-Kansas Inc. Shears Division, Hutchinson, Kansas, $2,705,193.91.

KDOT approves construction bids

TOPEKA, Kan. — KDOT is evaluating the expansion of passenger rail in south central Kansas. 

The proposed project would extend the Heartland Flyer passenger rail service from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Newton, Kansas, where it would then connect with the Southwest Chief, a national route on Amtrak’s passenger rail network. 

The Heartland Flyer currently provides daily service between Fort Worth, Texas, and Oklahoma City.

The Kansas Department of Transportation is holding a public meeting to discuss the KDOT Passenger Rail Service Development Plan update.&nbsp; 

Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86241881502">Click here to join via Zoom</a>

<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86241881502"></a>There will be a brief presentation, and the public will have the opportunity to submit questions and comments for a response from the project team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following the live meeting, a virtual open house will be available until Jan. 1, 2025, and feature a recording of the presentation and an online comment form.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663103887561.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of TransportationTOPEKA, Kan. — KDOT is evaluating the expansion of passenger rail in south central Kansas. The proposed project would extend the Heartland Flyer passenger rail service from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Newton, Kansas, where it would then connect with the Southwest Chief, a national route on Amtrak’s passenger rail network. The Heartland Flyer currently provides daily service between Fort Worth, Texas, and Oklahoma City.The Kansas Department of Transportation is holding a public meeting to discuss the KDOT Passenger Rail Service Development Plan update.&nbsp; LIVE VIRTUAL MEETING Wednesday, Dec. 11 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.<a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86241881502">Click here to join via Zoom</a><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86241881502"></a>There will be a brief presentation, and the public will have the opportunity to submit questions and comments for a response from the project team.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following the live meeting, a virtual open house will be available until Jan. 1, 2025, and feature a recording of the presentation and an online comment form.

Passenger rail meeting Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz gave Hutch Post an update on the ways the Fair hopes to upgrade visitor experience in the coming years.

"We actually are working with Landmark Architects to see what a brand new stage area would look like inside of the racetrack," Schulz said. "Every year, we have to bring in a portable stage and all the sound and lights that go with it. That bill is right close to $200,000 a year. If there's a way that we could have a permanent stage, we'd probably cut that in half, if not more. Obviously, you still have to have them bring in their sound and lights, but the setup and teardown would take a lot less time and that way, we could put in other events there as well. We could bring in some other touring acts. We could do some other special events going on the grounds. It all comes down to money."

Schulz met with the local legislative delegation on Monday as the legislature has appropriated money for the Bison Arena project and that work is underway.

"We are in the midst of phase one," Schulz said. "Phase one is basically the new roof, new windows, new doors, working out all the brick work, tuck pointing. We are bringing up two of the sides. They were starting to sink a little bit. We leveled that all out and there's some interior work. That is all scheduled to be done by August of 2025, and then we will be going out for phase two bidding here, I think within the next month, and that will be to do a portion of the inside that we could open that up."

Also, there will be a change in the look of the People's Bank and Trust Arena.

"The canopies are starting to fail a little bit," Schulz said. "We just wanted a permanent structure because there are a lot of events that we could do on that stage, so we decided to look into putting a permanent structure there, and we just got everything finalized. So I don't know if we're going to get any of the footings done yet this fall, early winter, or if it'll all take place next spring, but it'll be a full covered grandstand over in that area now."

The People's Bank and Trust Arena is the second-largest venue on the grounds, second only to the Grandstand itself.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725972052496.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Fair Midway-Photo by Pat James" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Fair Midway-Photo by Pat James</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz gave Hutch Post an update on the ways the Fair hopes to upgrade visitor experience in the coming years."We actually are working with Landmark Architects to see what a brand new stage area would look like inside of the racetrack," Schulz said. "Every year, we have to bring in a portable stage and all the sound and lights that go with it. That bill is right close to $200,000 a year. If there's a way that we could have a permanent stage, we'd probably cut that in half, if not more. Obviously, you still have to have them bring in their sound and lights, but the setup and teardown would take a lot less time and that way, we could put in other events there as well. We could bring in some other touring acts. We could do some other special events going on the grounds. It all comes down to money."Schulz met with the local legislative delegation on Monday as the legislature has appropriated money for the Bison Arena project and that work is underway."We are in the midst of phase one," Schulz said. "Phase one is basically the new roof, new windows, new doors, working out all the brick work, tuck pointing. We are bringing up two of the sides. They were starting to sink a little bit. We leveled that all out and there's some interior work. That is all scheduled to be done by August of 2025, and then we will be going out for phase two bidding here, I think within the next month, and that will be to do a portion of the inside that we could open that up."Also, there will be a change in the look of the People's Bank and Trust Arena."The canopies are starting to fail a little bit," Schulz said. "We just wanted a permanent structure because there are a lot of events that we could do on that stage, so we decided to look into putting a permanent structure there, and we just got everything finalized. So I don't know if we're going to get any of the footings done yet this fall, early winter, or if it'll all take place next spring, but it'll be a full covered grandstand over in that area now."The People's Bank and Trust Arena is the second-largest venue on the grounds, second only to the Grandstand itself.

Projects continue on the Kansas State Fairgrounds

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Winter is coming, and cold nights are here. 

Many Evergy customers will turn to portable space heaters and electric blankets to help stay warm. If not used correctly, space heaters and electric blankets can pose a fire hazard to you and your family. The Electrical Safety Foundation reports that heating equipment causes more than 65,000 home fires each year.

Evergy reminds customers how to properly use electric blankets and heaters to stay safe this upcoming winter.

Always review and follow any safety instructions on your specific space heater.

Plug your heater into a wall outlet. Never plug a portable space heater into a power strip or extension cord. 

Heaters should be placed on flat surfaces, such as the floor. Do not leave them anywhere that they could fall.

Keep them three feet from other items, especially blankets and curtains.

Make sure they have the proper certifications, for example UL approved. This means the product has been tested and meets specific safety requirements.

Do not use them while sleeping. Choose a space heater with a timer.

Choose a space heater that is the proper size for the room to avoid wasting energy or overheating a room.

Throw out electric blankets or heating pads with dark, charred, or frayed spots or indications the electric cord is cracked or frayed.

Do not allow anything on top of a heating pad or electric blanket when it is in use, including other blankets or even pets. Electric blankets may overheat.

Never fold electric blankets when in use. Folded or tucked in blankets could overheat and cause a fire. 

Do not use electric blankets or heating pads while sleeping.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705698395274.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>EvergyHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Winter is coming, and cold nights are here. Many Evergy customers will turn to portable space heaters and electric blankets to help stay warm. If not used correctly, space heaters and electric blankets can pose a fire hazard to you and your family. The Electrical Safety Foundation reports that heating equipment causes more than 65,000 home fires each year.Evergy reminds customers how to properly use electric blankets and heaters to stay safe this upcoming winter.Space HeatersAlways review and follow any safety instructions on your specific space heater.Plug your heater into a wall outlet. Never plug a portable space heater into a power strip or extension cord. Heaters should be placed on flat surfaces, such as the floor. Do not leave them anywhere that they could fall.Keep them three feet from other items, especially blankets and curtains.Make sure they have the proper certifications, for example UL approved. This means the product has been tested and meets specific safety requirements.Do not use them while sleeping. Choose a space heater with a timer.Choose a space heater that is the proper size for the room to avoid wasting energy or overheating a room.Electric Blankets Throw out electric blankets or heating pads with dark, charred, or frayed spots or indications the electric cord is cracked or frayed.Do not allow anything on top of a heating pad or electric blanket when it is in use, including other blankets or even pets. Electric blankets may overheat.Never fold electric blankets when in use. Folded or tucked in blankets could overheat and cause a fire. Do not use electric blankets or heating pads while sleeping.Turn them off when not in use.

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