HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved all the various agreements and bids to accomplish putting turf on Hobart-Detter Field and Fields 2 and 3 at Fun Valley Sports Complex at their meeting on Tuesday.

The bid from Mammoth was for $2.26 million, including alternates. The cost share agreement with Hutchinson Community College was for half of the cost of Hobart Detter and Field 3 at $1,695,000, or $847,500&nbsp; and with USD 308 was for half of the cost of Field 2 at $500,000, or $250,000 assuming that there are no change orders to add to the original bid. If change orders happen, agreements with the college and the school district will need to be adjusted accordingly.

The turf process will resolve the drainage issues at Hobart-Detter, which should allow for baseball to be played there in minutes after rainfall ends, rather than days.

The schools are allowed to pay their cost share agreements over a ten-year period.

The project will be bonded together with other city projects later this year.&nbsp; 

CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721144183774.jpeg" alt="Hobart Detter Turf" />
 <figcaption>Hobart Detter Turf</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved all the various agreements and bids to accomplish putting turf on Hobart-Detter Field and Fields 2 and 3 at Fun Valley Sports Complex at their meeting on Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721144214508.jpeg" alt="FunValley2 Turf" />
 <figcaption>FunValley2 Turf</figcaption>
 </figure>The bid from Mammoth was for $2.26 million, including alternates. The cost share agreement with Hutchinson Community College was for half of the cost of Hobart Detter and Field 3 at $1,695,000, or $847,500&nbsp; and with USD 308 was for half of the cost of Field 2 at $500,000, or $250,000 assuming that there are no change orders to add to the original bid. If change orders happen, agreements with the college and the school district will need to be adjusted accordingly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721144238036.jpeg" alt="FunValley3 Turf" />
 <figcaption>FunValley3 Turf</figcaption>
 </figure>The turf process will resolve the drainage issues at Hobart-Detter, which should allow for baseball to be played there in minutes after rainfall ends, rather than days.The schools are allowed to pay their cost share agreements over a ten-year period.The project will be bonded together with other city projects later this year.&nbsp; CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Turf deal is done

Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and Greater Wichita YMCA

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Greater Wichita YMCA and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) announced Tuesday a partnership that will bring a new state-of-the-art Hutchinson YMCA facility to Reno County. The future 75,000-square-foot Y branch will be located on land donated by HRHS to the Y near the intersection of 20th Street and Lorraine; it will replace the Hutchinson Y’s current location at 716 E 13th Ave.

The announcement marks the official public launch of a capital campaign for the estimated $30 million project that will be led by Hutchinson Y campaign chair and prominent community leader Brad Dillon.

“I am passionate about bringing a new state-of-the-art YMCA to Hutchinson and even more excited about working with Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System,” Dillon said. “The Y impacts individuals from all walks of life and serves as a community hub for all to come together for positive activities and social engagement.”

The collaboration advances both the Hutchinson Y’s and HRHS’ shared commitment to strengthening the health and well-being of individuals and families in the surrounding area.

“For decades, the Hutchinson YMCA has served as a vibrant touchstone in our community for both individual and group wellness, as well as a major source of social engagement. The past several years, YMCA leadership and key community stakeholders have worked diligently to expand facilities and offerings to the community,” said Allen Fee, HRHS Board Chairman. “Once the YMCA approached HRHS to work with them to make appropriate ground available for the pending construction and expansion of a new state-of-the-art facility, which will positively&nbsp;impact Central Kansas for generations, it was an easy decision by our board to partner with the YMCA. It is with a great deal of optimism and anticipation that we look forward to both building upon our existing relationship, as well as forging new and creative pathways and partnerships with the YMCA.”

Benjamin Anderson, HRHS President and CEO, added: "The future of community health rests on our collective ability to proactively prevent illness rather than provide reactive care when people become sick. Preventing disease before it happens can reduce its severity and help curb the costs to treat it. Hutchinson&nbsp;Regional Healthcare System realizes the impact the YMCA has already made on central Kansans and its potential to expand its mission in Reno County. We are&nbsp;honored to help make this work possible through this special partnership."

The planned Hutchinson YMCA will include a first-class destination aquatics center,&nbsp;indoor track, gymnasium, expanded gymnastics center, fitness center with studios,&nbsp;community room, additional places for families to connect and programs that provide safe spaces for youth along with a planned child care center. This initial phase of the Y/HRHS partnership allows for future development to continue to transform the 9.9 acres of land into a health and wellness destination.

“The YMCA is committed to its mission to put Christian principals into practice&nbsp;through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, strong families and positive youth development to build healthy spirit, mind and body for all, regardless of ability to pay,” said Ronn McMahon, Y President and CEO. “We believe that by partnering with Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and leveraging our&nbsp;combined strengths and resources, we can amplify our reach and impact to create&nbsp;additional programming and activities that promote holistic health and wellness in&nbsp;the community.”

A groundbreaking for the facility is planned for later this year.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697900853725.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson YMCA-Photo by Emmie Boese" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson YMCA-Photo by Emmie Boese</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and Greater Wichita YMCAHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Greater Wichita YMCA and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) announced Tuesday a partnership that will bring a new state-of-the-art Hutchinson YMCA facility to Reno County. The future 75,000-square-foot Y branch will be located on land donated by HRHS to the Y near the intersection of 20th Street and Lorraine; it will replace the Hutchinson Y’s current location at 716 E 13th Ave.The announcement marks the official public launch of a capital campaign for the estimated $30 million project that will be led by Hutchinson Y campaign chair and prominent community leader Brad Dillon.“I am passionate about bringing a new state-of-the-art YMCA to Hutchinson and even more excited about working with Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System,” Dillon said. “The Y impacts individuals from all walks of life and serves as a community hub for all to come together for positive activities and social engagement.”The collaboration advances both the Hutchinson Y’s and HRHS’ shared commitment to strengthening the health and well-being of individuals and families in the surrounding area.“For decades, the Hutchinson YMCA has served as a vibrant touchstone in our community for both individual and group wellness, as well as a major source of social engagement. The past several years, YMCA leadership and key community stakeholders have worked diligently to expand facilities and offerings to the community,” said Allen Fee, HRHS Board Chairman. “Once the YMCA approached HRHS to work with them to make appropriate ground available for the pending construction and expansion of a new state-of-the-art facility, which will positively&nbsp;impact Central Kansas for generations, it was an easy decision by our board to partner with the YMCA. It is with a great deal of optimism and anticipation that we look forward to both building upon our existing relationship, as well as forging new and creative pathways and partnerships with the YMCA.”Benjamin Anderson, HRHS President and CEO, added: "The future of community health rests on our collective ability to proactively prevent illness rather than provide reactive care when people become sick. Preventing disease before it happens can reduce its severity and help curb the costs to treat it. Hutchinson&nbsp;Regional Healthcare System realizes the impact the YMCA has already made on central Kansans and its potential to expand its mission in Reno County. We are&nbsp;honored to help make this work possible through this special partnership."The planned Hutchinson YMCA will include a first-class destination aquatics center,&nbsp;indoor track, gymnasium, expanded gymnastics center, fitness center with studios,&nbsp;community room, additional places for families to connect and programs that provide safe spaces for youth along with a planned child care center. This initial phase of the Y/HRHS partnership allows for future development to continue to transform the 9.9 acres of land into a health and wellness destination.“The YMCA is committed to its mission to put Christian principals into practice&nbsp;through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, strong families and positive youth development to build healthy spirit, mind and body for all, regardless of ability to pay,” said Ronn McMahon, Y President and CEO. “We believe that by partnering with Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System and leveraging our&nbsp;combined strengths and resources, we can amplify our reach and impact to create&nbsp;additional programming and activities that promote holistic health and wellness in&nbsp;the community.”A groundbreaking for the facility is planned for later this year.&nbsp; CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

YMCA to be built on land donated by HRHS at 20th and Lorraine

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday approved notification of the Reno County Clerk that the city will exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate in its 2025 budget.

"The city is proposing to keep the current mill levy flat," said Hutchinson City Manager Enrico Villegas. "With that, if we exceed one dollar more from the previous year's budget, we are exceeding the revenue neutral rate that was set from last year. By proposing to keep it flat, we are then, would be assuming any of the increased assessed valuation from this year."

There are many financial reasons that the city believes it needs increased revenues in the coming year.

"A lot of what we purchase, say equipment or materials for street maintenance, our fire suppression equipment like fire trucks, and all of those things are very expensive, and so to pay for all of that, we need additional money coming in. Now there are other ways that we could do that through bonding capacity. We could take on some debt in order to do that, which we do. It is healthy for a government to do that, but we are also wanting to focus on building back our fund balance or another way to think of that is a savings account. It's important for us to have a savings account because as we look at taking on debt in this form of bonds or temporary notes or something, our bond rating or the city's credit score is impacted by how much money we have in our savings account. When that's evaluated, the investors are looking at, do you have the ability to pay back the debt? In this case we have very little money in our fund balance. At one point we were negative $3.8 million. Now through a series of cuts and moving things around and unfortunately having to freeze some full-time positions, we were able to get us back to the good. We still have a lot to build back, but we're looking pretty good and it'll be manageable. It's not ideal, but it's manageable."

How much do those agencies want in the city's ending balance?

"With this particularly, it's good policy to have at least two months of reserves. And so for us that would be about $7 million. So they would expect to see at least $7 million in the savings bank or in our savings account. By financially positioning us the way we have, we could end up with around $750,000, which is a 10th of what it should be. And so that is one key thing that they'll look at because investors want to know, are you able to pay us back?"

That's leaving aside the obvious increases in expenses that have happened across the economy and government generally.

"I think that give two to three years, we'll be in pretty good shape,"&nbsp; Villegas said. "We have a really good team that, and really good council, I think we'll be fine.&nbsp;I don't want to spend too much time on just the fund balance piece, because that's just one part of the equation. But really just for any ongoing projects or anything that we want to pursue with inflation, rising costs and materials and labor, it's just incrementally more expensive to, our dollar doesn't go as far as it did last year or the year before. And so while fund balance is an important thing to look at and consider, just everything in general has gone up, and so budgeting for projects or large pieces of equipment is very challenging. The cost for asphalt has gone up, you know, anywhere from about five to 10%, and so our ability to get streets done is just more expensive, and so that's one salient example that I think anyone in the community can feel is what are the condition of our roads? To go back to the fund balance a little bit, and how that impacts our bonding capacity, some of the things that we do with bonds is that we go out and buy large pieces of equipment like a fire truck. To pay for a fire truck with cash, those are very expensive, and we don't have just a bunch of money sitting around that we can do that. By taking out bond money and buying those large purchases really helps the city move forward."

The notification was passed by the city council unanimously. The Revenue Neutral Rate hearing was set for Sept. 3.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721141096258.jpeg" alt="Hutch City Council July 16 2024" />
 <figcaption>Hutch City Council July 16 2024</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday approved notification of the Reno County Clerk that the city will exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate in its 2025 budget."The city is proposing to keep the current mill levy flat," said Hutchinson City Manager Enrico Villegas. "With that, if we exceed one dollar more from the previous year's budget, we are exceeding the revenue neutral rate that was set from last year. By proposing to keep it flat, we are then, would be assuming any of the increased assessed valuation from this year."There are many financial reasons that the city believes it needs increased revenues in the coming year."A lot of what we purchase, say equipment or materials for street maintenance, our fire suppression equipment like fire trucks, and all of those things are very expensive, and so to pay for all of that, we need additional money coming in. Now there are other ways that we could do that through bonding capacity. We could take on some debt in order to do that, which we do. It is healthy for a government to do that, but we are also wanting to focus on building back our fund balance or another way to think of that is a savings account. It's important for us to have a savings account because as we look at taking on debt in this form of bonds or temporary notes or something, our bond rating or the city's credit score is impacted by how much money we have in our savings account. When that's evaluated, the investors are looking at, do you have the ability to pay back the debt? In this case we have very little money in our fund balance. At one point we were negative $3.8 million. Now through a series of cuts and moving things around and unfortunately having to freeze some full-time positions, we were able to get us back to the good. We still have a lot to build back, but we're looking pretty good and it'll be manageable. It's not ideal, but it's manageable."How much do those agencies want in the city's ending balance?"With this particularly, it's good policy to have at least two months of reserves. And so for us that would be about $7 million. So they would expect to see at least $7 million in the savings bank or in our savings account. By financially positioning us the way we have, we could end up with around $750,000, which is a 10th of what it should be. And so that is one key thing that they'll look at because investors want to know, are you able to pay us back?"That's leaving aside the obvious increases in expenses that have happened across the economy and government generally."I think that give two to three years, we'll be in pretty good shape,"&nbsp; Villegas said. "We have a really good team that, and really good council, I think we'll be fine.&nbsp;I don't want to spend too much time on just the fund balance piece, because that's just one part of the equation. But really just for any ongoing projects or anything that we want to pursue with inflation, rising costs and materials and labor, it's just incrementally more expensive to, our dollar doesn't go as far as it did last year or the year before. And so while fund balance is an important thing to look at and consider, just everything in general has gone up, and so budgeting for projects or large pieces of equipment is very challenging. The cost for asphalt has gone up, you know, anywhere from about five to 10%, and so our ability to get streets done is just more expensive, and so that's one salient example that I think anyone in the community can feel is what are the condition of our roads? To go back to the fund balance a little bit, and how that impacts our bonding capacity, some of the things that we do with bonds is that we go out and buy large pieces of equipment like a fire truck. To pay for a fire truck with cash, those are very expensive, and we don't have just a bunch of money sitting around that we can do that. By taking out bond money and buying those large purchases really helps the city move forward."The notification was passed by the city council unanimously. The Revenue Neutral Rate hearing was set for Sept. 3.&nbsp; CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City will receive more in tax collections under 2025 budget

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is holding a candidate forum tonight, July 16, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.

Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel will moderate the forum. Invited to tonight's forum are: 

Reno County Commission District 2: Melony Ball / Ron Hirst / Kenneth Nisly

Reno County Commission District 3: Timothy Davies / Ron Vincent

Reno County Commission District 4: John Whitesel / Richard Winger

The Chamber public policy committee will develop the slate of questions and ensure diversity of topics. No questions will be allowed from the audience.

CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689585129087.jpeg" alt="Hutch Chamber Logo" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Chamber Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce is holding a candidate forum tonight, July 16, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Stringer Fine Arts Center on the HutchCC campus.Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel will moderate the forum. Invited to tonight's forum are: Reno County Commission District 2: Melony Ball / Ron Hirst / Kenneth NislyReno County Commission District 3: Timothy Davies / Ron VincentReno County Commission District 4: John Whitesel / Richard WingerThe Chamber public policy committee will develop the slate of questions and ensure diversity of topics. No questions will be allowed from the audience.CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app. CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

County commission candidate forum tonight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Circles of Hope Reno County prepares to begin a new class next month, Jason Probst talked to Hutch Post about what a new Circle Leader should be ready for when they come in to the class.

"We're not a crisis intervention place," Probst said. "We want people to be not, you know, completely stable necessarily, but we need to have reliable transportation and that's defined as any way to get to work. We need to have employment and we need to have housing and that can be defined in a number of ways. As long as somebody's not in threat of being, you know, out on the street, they're going to be stable enough that Circles would work for them. If you're in crisis, there are other avenues in the community that are going to be a lot more effective in helping you, but if you're out of crisis and you're ready to move forward and you're ready to make real lasting change in your life, Circles is going to be a good place to look."&nbsp;

Giving a hand up out of poverty has a lot to do with changing the way people think about themselves.

"Poverty is a very complex problem that has a lot of sources," Probst said. "It doesn't have one necessary source and people can find themselves in poverty from a number of a number of ways, but one thing that we work on is budgeting, we work on having a vision for your life. One thing we found with people, especially if they come from generational poverty or chronic poverty, is that they have they've never had the chance or the opportunity to actually build a vision and a dream for their lives. A lot of us in middle class have long had ideas on what our life would look like. When you've been in survival mode and your parents have been in survival mode and your grandparents have been in survival mode and that's all you've ever seen, you don't allow yourself much opportunity to have a vision for your life. We talk to people about having a dream and a vision and then we partner them with allies who can help guide them through a system like a middle class system that they may not be entirely familiar with."

Making sure that Circle Leaders have agency is important. They need to be in charge of their growth.

"We have a 12-week training program that goes through some of that," Probst said.&nbsp; "The allies don't actually teach necessarily, but they're there as friends and they're there as a supportive member of a community for them. The reason we call Circle Leaders, Circle Leaders is they're the ones in charge of their journey. We're not saying at all, come like here's somebody who knows how to live life, come live it the way they're going to show you. The Circle Leaders are in charge of their journey. We can't compel them or make them do anything and we don't want to. What we want them to do is to say these are the challenges I'm having in my life and these are the ways that this community can support me and then we try to help them do that."

If you need more information on Circles, go to their barbecue on July 27 at Carey Park. You can RSVP to Robbie Fall at (620) 669-7569 or email her at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:robbie.fall@gmail.com">robbie.fall@gmail.com</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714864146087.jpeg" alt="Circles of Hope Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Circles of Hope Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Circles of Hope Reno County prepares to begin a new class next month, Jason Probst talked to Hutch Post about what a new Circle Leader should be ready for when they come in to the class."We're not a crisis intervention place," Probst said. "We want people to be not, you know, completely stable necessarily, but we need to have reliable transportation and that's defined as any way to get to work. We need to have employment and we need to have housing and that can be defined in a number of ways. As long as somebody's not in threat of being, you know, out on the street, they're going to be stable enough that Circles would work for them. If you're in crisis, there are other avenues in the community that are going to be a lot more effective in helping you, but if you're out of crisis and you're ready to move forward and you're ready to make real lasting change in your life, Circles is going to be a good place to look."&nbsp;Giving a hand up out of poverty has a lot to do with changing the way people think about themselves."Poverty is a very complex problem that has a lot of sources," Probst said. "It doesn't have one necessary source and people can find themselves in poverty from a number of a number of ways, but one thing that we work on is budgeting, we work on having a vision for your life. One thing we found with people, especially if they come from generational poverty or chronic poverty, is that they have they've never had the chance or the opportunity to actually build a vision and a dream for their lives. A lot of us in middle class have long had ideas on what our life would look like. When you've been in survival mode and your parents have been in survival mode and your grandparents have been in survival mode and that's all you've ever seen, you don't allow yourself much opportunity to have a vision for your life. We talk to people about having a dream and a vision and then we partner them with allies who can help guide them through a system like a middle class system that they may not be entirely familiar with."Making sure that Circle Leaders have agency is important. They need to be in charge of their growth."We have a 12-week training program that goes through some of that," Probst said.&nbsp; "The allies don't actually teach necessarily, but they're there as friends and they're there as a supportive member of a community for them. The reason we call Circle Leaders, Circle Leaders is they're the ones in charge of their journey. We're not saying at all, come like here's somebody who knows how to live life, come live it the way they're going to show you. The Circle Leaders are in charge of their journey. We can't compel them or make them do anything and we don't want to. What we want them to do is to say these are the challenges I'm having in my life and these are the ways that this community can support me and then we try to help them do that."If you need more information on Circles, go to their barbecue on July 27 at Carey Park. You can RSVP to Robbie Fall at (620) 669-7569 or email her at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:robbie.fall@gmail.com">robbie.fall@gmail.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Circles looking for new Circle Leaders for August class

EMMIE BOESE Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A story of truth and hope is coming to the Historic Hutchinson Fox Theatre on Sunday afternoon. CarePortal and St. Francis Ministries will host a one time showing of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nyh9tcGFcI">Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot</a>.&nbsp;

"It's based off a true story in Possum Trot, Texas of where this church came together in total to adopt 77 children of the hardest children in the foster care system," Regional Manager of CarePortal Hallie Cable said. "And so they reversed the foster care crisis in their county to where they didn't have children waiting for homes. They had homes waiting for children which is just... it's unheard of."

Cable said she and a group of foster-adoptive moms went to a pre-screening of the film in Wichita. She said the moms wanted to help bring the movie to Hutchinson but knew that it would be expensive to show at a theatre due to rental fees, licensing fees of the movie and other additional costs.&nbsp;

"Well two of the moms, their foster-adoptive family said well we're are just going to do lemonade stands and I thought&nbsp; well okay that's awesome we'll see how this goes," Cable said.&nbsp;

The Thiessen and Thompson family of Reno and Rice County together raised over $1500 with their lemonade stands to show the film at the Fox Theatre. "It was just such an amazing God thing and I think they had the fire department out there donating money and all sorts of things," Cable said. "Like it was just really fun."&nbsp; Cable said the opportunity to bring Sound of Hope to Hutchinson is important due to a foster care crisis in Reno County.

<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/pps/pages/fostercaredemographicreports.aspx">According to a 2024 report from the Kansas Department of Children and Families, there are 198 children in Reno County recorded in the in an out of home placement category.The report is dated from July 1, 2023-May 31, 2024.</a>

"We need more foster care homes and so that's really what our encouragement will be is calling on the church, calling on individuals to you know get involved but we need more homes to care for children in Reno County and in the surrounding areas as well," Cable said.&nbsp;

The film will show on Sunday, July 21 at 3 p.m. at the Historic Fox Theatre. The doors open at 2:15 p.m. The first 100 attendees will receive free admission. The admission price after the first 100 is $5 per person.&nbsp;

"We just want to share there's a lot of good that's going on in the foster care system with the agencies and the churches and that's not often what gets reported on," Cable said. "And so we just definitely want our heart to show the positives that are happening and call more people into that with us to join us and help us join the fight for kids is what we want to do."&nbsp;

More information about CarePortal and St. Francis Ministries is available at <a href="https://www.careportal.org/">careportal.org</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://saintfrancisministries.org/">saintfrancisministries.org</a>.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721019935982.jpeg" alt="Flyer courtesy of CarePortal and St. Francis Ministries" />
 <figcaption>Flyer courtesy of CarePortal and St. Francis Ministries</figcaption>
 </figure>EMMIE BOESE Hutch Post HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A story of truth and hope is coming to the Historic Hutchinson Fox Theatre on Sunday afternoon. CarePortal and St. Francis Ministries will host a one time showing of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nyh9tcGFcI">Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot</a>.&nbsp;"It's based off a true story in Possum Trot, Texas of where this church came together in total to adopt 77 children of the hardest children in the foster care system," Regional Manager of CarePortal Hallie Cable said. "And so they reversed the foster care crisis in their county to where they didn't have children waiting for homes. They had homes waiting for children which is just... it's unheard of."Cable said she and a group of foster-adoptive moms went to a pre-screening of the film in Wichita. She said the moms wanted to help bring the movie to Hutchinson but knew that it would be expensive to show at a theatre due to rental fees, licensing fees of the movie and other additional costs.&nbsp;"Well two of the moms, their foster-adoptive family said well we're are just going to do lemonade stands and I thought&nbsp; well okay that's awesome we'll see how this goes," Cable said.&nbsp;The Thiessen and Thompson family of Reno and Rice County together raised over $1500 with their lemonade stands to show the film at the Fox Theatre. "It was just such an amazing God thing and I think they had the fire department out there donating money and all sorts of things," Cable said. "Like it was just really fun."&nbsp; Cable said the opportunity to bring Sound of Hope to Hutchinson is important due to a foster care crisis in Reno County. <a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/pps/pages/fostercaredemographicreports.aspx">According to a 2024 report from the Kansas Department of Children and Families, there are 198 children in Reno County recorded in the in an out of home placement category.The report is dated from July 1, 2023-May 31, 2024.</a>"We need more foster care homes and so that's really what our encouragement will be is calling on the church, calling on individuals to you know get involved but we need more homes to care for children in Reno County and in the surrounding areas as well," Cable said.&nbsp;The film will show on Sunday, July 21 at 3 p.m. at the Historic Fox Theatre. The doors open at 2:15 p.m. The first 100 attendees will receive free admission. The admission price after the first 100 is $5 per person.&nbsp;"We just want to share there's a lot of good that's going on in the foster care system with the agencies and the churches and that's not often what gets reported on," Cable said. "And so we just definitely want our heart to show the positives that are happening and call more people into that with us to join us and help us join the fight for kids is what we want to do."&nbsp;More information about CarePortal and St. Francis Ministries is available at <a href="https://www.careportal.org/">careportal.org</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://saintfrancisministries.org/">saintfrancisministries.org</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Sound of Hope coming to Hutchinson 

Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Congratulations to this month's DAISY Award winners, Olivia Snedeker and Stacey Cox!

When a patient came into the ER experiencing a miscarriage, Olivia and Stacey stepped in with exceptional care, professionalism, and empathy. Despite a busy ER, they dedicated themselves to supporting the patient and family, ensuring comfort and respect during this difficult time.

Their actions went beyond medical duties—they provided thoughtful and compassionate care, embodying the core values of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Their commitment to our values and the extraordinary care they provided exemplify the heart of our mission.

We are incredibly proud to have such dedicated and compassionate nurses on our team. Join us in celebrating Olivia Snedeker and Stacey Cox for their incredible work and unwavering dedication.

The DAISY Nursing Award is part of the DAISY Foundation, a non-profit organization established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at the age of 33 from complications of the autoimmune disease idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). The foundation's mission is to honor the compassionate care that Barnes received from his nurses and to recognize the extraordinary work that nurses do every day.

Each month, a nurse will be selected by a committee of nurses at Hutchinson Regional to receive The DAISY Award. At a presentation given in front of the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, and visitors, the honoree will receive a certificate commending him or her for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” The honoree will also be given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721120463412.jpeg" alt="July 2024 DAISY Award-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Regional" />
 <figcaption>July 2024 DAISY Award-Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Regional</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Regional Healthcare SystemHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Congratulations to this month's DAISY Award winners, Olivia Snedeker and Stacey Cox!When a patient came into the ER experiencing a miscarriage, Olivia and Stacey stepped in with exceptional care, professionalism, and empathy. Despite a busy ER, they dedicated themselves to supporting the patient and family, ensuring comfort and respect during this difficult time.Their actions went beyond medical duties—they provided thoughtful and compassionate care, embodying the core values of Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Their commitment to our values and the extraordinary care they provided exemplify the heart of our mission.We are incredibly proud to have such dedicated and compassionate nurses on our team. Join us in celebrating Olivia Snedeker and Stacey Cox for their incredible work and unwavering dedication.The DAISY Nursing Award is part of the DAISY Foundation, a non-profit organization established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at the age of 33 from complications of the autoimmune disease idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). The foundation's mission is to honor the compassionate care that Barnes received from his nurses and to recognize the extraordinary work that nurses do every day.Each month, a nurse will be selected by a committee of nurses at Hutchinson Regional to receive The DAISY Award. At a presentation given in front of the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, and visitors, the honoree will receive a certificate commending him or her for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” The honoree will also be given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Two nurses share July DAISY Award

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — STRATACA's Murder in the Mine is coming up next month on August 24.

"Murder in the Mine is a interactive dinner theater," said Rachel Terry with STRATACA. "We actually fly in the actors from Chicago and they just put on an amazing show. This upcoming show will be called Midnight Manor so it's a it's kind of seems like a little kind of scary. You book for a day and stay for forever. I'm really excited about this show I haven't seen it yet."

Get your tickets at <a href="http://underkansas.org">underkansas.org</a>. Tickets are $70 for individuals and $500 for a table.

"Most of our shows do sell out," Terry said. "We are able to hold up to 240 in our event center. We do recommend booking your tickets early and with that we also dismiss and for both the food line and to go back topside at the end of the night based off when you purchased your ticket so we always recommend booking early."

This show is intended for adults. You must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink. Please be aware that the humor is adult-oriented.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721044463675.png" alt="Murder in the Mine" />
 <figcaption>Murder in the Mine</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — STRATACA's Murder in the Mine is coming up next month on August 24."Murder in the Mine is a interactive dinner theater," said Rachel Terry with STRATACA. "We actually fly in the actors from Chicago and they just put on an amazing show. This upcoming show will be called Midnight Manor so it's a it's kind of seems like a little kind of scary. You book for a day and stay for forever. I'm really excited about this show I haven't seen it yet."Get your tickets at <a href="http://underkansas.org">underkansas.org</a>. Tickets are $70 for individuals and $500 for a table."Most of our shows do sell out," Terry said. "We are able to hold up to 240 in our event center. We do recommend booking your tickets early and with that we also dismiss and for both the food line and to go back topside at the end of the night based off when you purchased your ticket so we always recommend booking early."This show is intended for adults. You must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink. Please be aware that the humor is adult-oriented.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Murder in the Mine coming up next month

RACHEL MCMASTER Bluestem Communities

NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Bluestem Communities will host a Dementia Forum on Wednesday, July 17, at Kidron Bethel Village’s Kidron Hall, 3001 Ivy Dr., North Newton, Kan. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with the hour-long presentation to begin at 6:30 p.m. Both 30 minutes prior to and following the presentation, further resources and services will be on display to share information. The event is free and open to the public.

The presentation will be on “Understanding Dementia and Caring for Those Who Have It,” by Amy Siple, APRN. The evening will review the most common types of dementia, help participants understand why challenging neuropsychiatric symptoms (behaviors) occur, and explore strategies for interacting with someone with dementia.

With about 16.1 million Americans providing unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, the forum is designed to be beneficial for anyone providing care for someone living with dementia, both professional caregivers and family or friends.

Siple is a national speaker and author on health care issues that impact older adults and the empowerment of health care givers. She has been serving the primary care needs of residents in long term care for more than 24 years. Three Kansas governors have appointed Siple to serve on boards and task forces to represent the needs of older adults, and she currently serves as the Chair for the Kansas board for Adult Care Home Executives. Siple is a TEDx speaker and a content expert for Project Echo. Under her leadership as President of the Kansas Advanced Practice Nurses Association, Kansas became the 26th&nbsp;state to pass full practice authority for APRN’s in 2022. She was given the AANP state award for excellence in 2023. She is also a certified John Maxwell leadership speaker, coach and trainer.

One continuing education (CE) hour is approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing and the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services is available for attending the presentation for those who desire it. The CE cost is $15 and must be registered for prior to the forum. 

Registration for the CE can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://bluestemks.org/events" target="_blank">bluestemks.org/events</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718874430813.jpeg" alt=" Amy Siple, APRN, will present on “Understanding Dementia and Caring for Those Who Have It,” at the Bluestem Communities public Dementia Forum on July 17. Contributed photo." />
 <figcaption> Amy Siple, APRN, will present on “Understanding Dementia and Caring for Those Who Have It,” at the Bluestem Communities public Dementia Forum on July 17. Contributed photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>RACHEL MCMASTER Bluestem CommunitiesNORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Bluestem Communities will host a Dementia Forum on Wednesday, July 17, at Kidron Bethel Village’s Kidron Hall, 3001 Ivy Dr., North Newton, Kan. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with the hour-long presentation to begin at 6:30 p.m. Both 30 minutes prior to and following the presentation, further resources and services will be on display to share information. The event is free and open to the public.The presentation will be on “Understanding Dementia and Caring for Those Who Have It,” by Amy Siple, APRN. The evening will review the most common types of dementia, help participants understand why challenging neuropsychiatric symptoms (behaviors) occur, and explore strategies for interacting with someone with dementia.With about 16.1 million Americans providing unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, the forum is designed to be beneficial for anyone providing care for someone living with dementia, both professional caregivers and family or friends.Siple is a national speaker and author on health care issues that impact older adults and the empowerment of health care givers. She has been serving the primary care needs of residents in long term care for more than 24 years. Three Kansas governors have appointed Siple to serve on boards and task forces to represent the needs of older adults, and she currently serves as the Chair for the Kansas board for Adult Care Home Executives. Siple is a TEDx speaker and a content expert for Project Echo. Under her leadership as President of the Kansas Advanced Practice Nurses Association, Kansas became the 26th&nbsp;state to pass full practice authority for APRN’s in 2022. She was given the AANP state award for excellence in 2023. She is also a certified John Maxwell leadership speaker, coach and trainer.One continuing education (CE) hour is approved by the Kansas State Board of Nursing and the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services is available for attending the presentation for those who desire it. The CE cost is $15 and must be registered for prior to the forum. Registration for the CE can be found at&nbsp;<a href="http://bluestemks.org/events" target="_blank">bluestemks.org/events</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Public forum Wednesday to provide education on dementia caregiving

BRAD BILES Boys State of Kansas

The American Legion Department of Kansas Boys State Committee has appointed Kyle Wheatley to serve as the executive director of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas.

Wheatley’s term began on July 1. He takes over for Tom Wierman who served in the role for the past four years.

Wheatley, a resident of Colorado Springs, Colo., was a Kansas Boys State delegate in 2003 from Wichita Northwest High School before graduating the following year. He has served KBS in a number of volunteer positions since 2004, including various counselor roles before ascending to serve in advisor roles in 2013. Most recently, Wheatley served as an associate director and bank advisor.

As executive director for the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, and in conjunction with the Kansas Boys State Committee, Wheatley is responsible for the direction and oversight of all objectives for the program. Along with implementation of strategic planning and visioning, Wheatley is accountable for the long-term health and longevity of the ALBSK and its resources. In the coming weeks, Wheatley will announce the Kansas Boys State 2024-25 leadership team.

A grandson of U.S. Army and U.S. Navy veterans, Wheatley graduated from Friends University in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in music education. He then chose to study with his inspiration to be a teacher, his high school choir director, at the University of Alabama, graduating with a Masters of Arts degree in education, curriculum and instruction in 2012.

Wheatley taught middle school and high school choir for 11 years in Fayetteville, Ga., Fort Worth, Texas, and Granbury, Texas, before stepping away from teaching in 2023 to be with his now fiancée,&nbsp;Christin, on the road while she was a travel nurse. He repurposed his life into a career working as a consultant for Guidehouse, a growing consultancy based in Arlington, Va., working with federal clients on projects with emphasis in data analytics and data science. The couple is planning to be married in October near Colorado Springs.

The objective of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas is to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Kansas Boys State provides a relevant, interactive, problemsolving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and&nbsp;instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an&nbsp;opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The Kansas Boys State program, which includes students who have just completed their junior year of high school (will be seniors in the fall) and sophomore year of high school (will be juniors in the fall), is scheduled to hold its 2025 session Sunday, June 1, through Saturday, June 7, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. It will be the program’s 33rd consecutive session at KSU and 87th overall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721053207945.jpeg" alt="Kyle Wheatley" />
 <figcaption>Kyle Wheatley</figcaption>
 </figure>BRAD BILES Boys State of KansasThe American Legion Department of Kansas Boys State Committee has appointed Kyle Wheatley to serve as the executive director of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas.Wheatley’s term began on July 1. He takes over for Tom Wierman who served in the role for the past four years.Wheatley, a resident of Colorado Springs, Colo., was a Kansas Boys State delegate in 2003 from Wichita Northwest High School before graduating the following year. He has served KBS in a number of volunteer positions since 2004, including various counselor roles before ascending to serve in advisor roles in 2013. Most recently, Wheatley served as an associate director and bank advisor.As executive director for the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, and in conjunction with the Kansas Boys State Committee, Wheatley is responsible for the direction and oversight of all objectives for the program. Along with implementation of strategic planning and visioning, Wheatley is accountable for the long-term health and longevity of the ALBSK and its resources. In the coming weeks, Wheatley will announce the Kansas Boys State 2024-25 leadership team.A grandson of U.S. Army and U.S. Navy veterans, Wheatley graduated from Friends University in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in music education. He then chose to study with his inspiration to be a teacher, his high school choir director, at the University of Alabama, graduating with a Masters of Arts degree in education, curriculum and instruction in 2012.Wheatley taught middle school and high school choir for 11 years in Fayetteville, Ga., Fort Worth, Texas, and Granbury, Texas, before stepping away from teaching in 2023 to be with his now fiancée,&nbsp;Christin, on the road while she was a travel nurse. He repurposed his life into a career working as a consultant for Guidehouse, a growing consultancy based in Arlington, Va., working with federal clients on projects with emphasis in data analytics and data science. The couple is planning to be married in October near Colorado Springs.The objective of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas is to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Kansas Boys State provides a relevant, interactive, problemsolving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and&nbsp;instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an&nbsp;opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.The Kansas Boys State program, which includes students who have just completed their junior year of high school (will be seniors in the fall) and sophomore year of high school (will be juniors in the fall), is scheduled to hold its 2025 session Sunday, June 1, through Saturday, June 7, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. It will be the program’s 33rd consecutive session at KSU and 87th overall.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

New executive director for Boys State

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Grace Arbor residents and City Officials met to discuss the future Grace Arbor Park on July 9, 2024. 

City of Hutchinson - Parks Director Justin Combs shared that the park project is in the 5-year Capital Improvement Project budget for 2026, though this could change. Additionally, the landscape architect plans to incorporate elements highlighting Central Junior High into the walking path design. 

Grace Arbor's next meeting will take place August 6, 6:30 p.m. at St. Teresa's Catholic Church. The main item on the agenda will be to pick a soccer goal for the park courtesy of a Changemakers at Work grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713981188493.jpeg" alt="The Grace Arbor Neighborhood wants to put in a park next to the Salvation Army's building. Photo by Emmie Boese." />
 <figcaption>The Grace Arbor Neighborhood wants to put in a park next to the Salvation Army's building. Photo by Emmie Boese.</figcaption>
 </figure>Healthy Neighborhoods InitiativeHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Grace Arbor residents and City Officials met to discuss the future Grace Arbor Park on July 9, 2024. City of Hutchinson - Parks Director Justin Combs shared that the park project is in the 5-year Capital Improvement Project budget for 2026, though this could change. Additionally, the landscape architect plans to incorporate elements highlighting Central Junior High into the walking path design. Grace Arbor's next meeting will take place August 6, 6:30 p.m. at St. Teresa's Catholic Church. The main item on the agenda will be to pick a soccer goal for the park courtesy of a Changemakers at Work grant from the Hutchinson Community Foundation.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

New Grace Arbor Park planned for 2026

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher

This coming week is our county fair and the heatwave is right on time since it always feels like county fairs in Kansas are held during the hottest weeks of the year. This begs the question, why would anyone let their children spend an entire week during dangerously hot weather mostly outside without air-conditioning?

My mother had a love-hate relationship with the county fair. She spent weeks fighting with us to finish the projects we were procrastinating to complete, dragging us out of bed in pre-dawn hours to get to the wash racks with our animals so they would dry before the show, finding and then keeping clean four sets of white show pants, and the logistical nightmares of kids, projects and animals all needing to be everywhere at the same time.

By the time I was fully participating, mom had endured years of fair-related stress with my three older siblings. She changed tactics one year and offered to pay me not to exhibit anything. I remember declining and committing to being prepared with everything done on my own. History repeated itself and a typical stressful fair ensued.

It has been 20 years since I was an active exhibitor at my county fair, and I probably still have a few ribbons, pictures with my animals and even one or two of those old projects in storage. The things I really cherish from the fair are my memories.

I have lots of happy memories from the fair, but the most vivid ones are less than magical. I remember the nervousness of walking into a ring with an animal that was unpredictable because I hadn’t worked with it enough, the embarrassment I felt when I realized in the show ring that in my busyness I only clipped on side of my heifer and disappointment when projects that were magnificent in my head ended up with low placings because they just weren’t that good.

The county fair feels like such a big deal when you are a kid but as an adult I see that it is actually a great place to fail. Exhibiting at the county fair is voluntary, it gives a reason to learn a new skill or create something and exhibits are a reflection of the preparation and work of an exhibitor. The only thing to lose from the experience is a bit of pride if you fall short of your own expectations.

It’s never fun to fail at something but being at a fair may have softened the blow. It is a lot easier to bounce back from a disappointment when carnival rides and fair food are waiting just down the midway and your friends are calling your name.

Exhibiting at the county fair gives kids a reason to learn, an incentive to work hard and a small dose of reality about the skills they will need to be successful in life. That is why parents let their kids spend a week in dangerous heat or repeat the same, inevitable stress load every year.

If you find yourself at a county fair this summer, I hope you will check out the youth exhibits, take in a round of showmanship or walk through the animal barns. Don’t forget to really look at the kids around you, to see them failing and having fun doing it!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592834709793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancherThis coming week is our county fair and the heatwave is right on time since it always feels like county fairs in Kansas are held during the hottest weeks of the year. This begs the question, why would anyone let their children spend an entire week during dangerously hot weather mostly outside without air-conditioning?My mother had a love-hate relationship with the county fair. She spent weeks fighting with us to finish the projects we were procrastinating to complete, dragging us out of bed in pre-dawn hours to get to the wash racks with our animals so they would dry before the show, finding and then keeping clean four sets of white show pants, and the logistical nightmares of kids, projects and animals all needing to be everywhere at the same time.By the time I was fully participating, mom had endured years of fair-related stress with my three older siblings. She changed tactics one year and offered to pay me not to exhibit anything. I remember declining and committing to being prepared with everything done on my own. History repeated itself and a typical stressful fair ensued.It has been 20 years since I was an active exhibitor at my county fair, and I probably still have a few ribbons, pictures with my animals and even one or two of those old projects in storage. The things I really cherish from the fair are my memories.I have lots of happy memories from the fair, but the most vivid ones are less than magical. I remember the nervousness of walking into a ring with an animal that was unpredictable because I hadn’t worked with it enough, the embarrassment I felt when I realized in the show ring that in my busyness I only clipped on side of my heifer and disappointment when projects that were magnificent in my head ended up with low placings because they just weren’t that good.The county fair feels like such a big deal when you are a kid but as an adult I see that it is actually a great place to fail. Exhibiting at the county fair is voluntary, it gives a reason to learn a new skill or create something and exhibits are a reflection of the preparation and work of an exhibitor. The only thing to lose from the experience is a bit of pride if you fall short of your own expectations.It’s never fun to fail at something but being at a fair may have softened the blow. It is a lot easier to bounce back from a disappointment when carnival rides and fair food are waiting just down the midway and your friends are calling your name.Exhibiting at the county fair gives kids a reason to learn, an incentive to work hard and a small dose of reality about the skills they will need to be successful in life. That is why parents let their kids spend a week in dangerous heat or repeat the same, inevitable stress load every year.If you find yourself at a county fair this summer, I hope you will check out the youth exhibits, take in a round of showmanship or walk through the animal barns. Don’t forget to really look at the kids around you, to see them failing and having fun doing it!"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service. Copyright © 2024 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Insight: County fair lessons

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

7/16/2024 1:19 AM-Carlos Robledo-Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway

7/15/2024 9:11 PM-Vu	Hoang Nguyen-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;

7/15/2024 8:12 PM-Drew	Floyd Chattam-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant&nbsp;

7/15/2024 3:57 PM-Karl	Eugene Ferrell-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction) ; Criminal Deprivation of Property; Other than Motor Vehicle or Firearm; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body&nbsp;

7/15/2024 12:49 PM-Jonathon	James Hoag-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

7/15/2024 12:30 PM-Bradley	Arthur Soukup-DUI; Misdemeanor&nbsp;

7/15/2024 11:42 AM-Jose	Guadalupe	Flores Orozco Jr.-Probation Violation&nbsp;

7/15/2024 9:22 AM-Deandre	Dupree Yelder-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

7/15/2024 8:29 AM-Justin	Ronzale Hodge-Failure to Appear

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7/16/2024 1:19 AM-Carlos Robledo-Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Pedestrian; Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs upon Roadway7/15/2024 9:11 PM-Vu	Hoang Nguyen-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;7/15/2024 8:12 PM-Drew	Floyd Chattam-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant&nbsp;7/15/2024 3:57 PM-Karl	Eugene Ferrell-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction) ; Criminal Deprivation of Property; Other than Motor Vehicle or Firearm; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body&nbsp;7/15/2024 12:49 PM-Jonathon	James Hoag-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)7/15/2024 12:30 PM-Bradley	Arthur Soukup-DUI; Misdemeanor&nbsp;7/15/2024 11:42 AM-Jose	Guadalupe	Flores Orozco Jr.-Probation Violation&nbsp;7/15/2024 9:22 AM-Deandre	Dupree Yelder-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv7/15/2024 8:29 AM-Justin	Ronzale Hodge-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dale Antoine with Drum Corps International and a former director of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders Corps is excited about the drum corps event coming to Gowans Stadium on July 16.

"We're going to have five Drum Corps from across the country," Antoine said. "We're going to have the Blue Stars, which are out of La Crosse, Wisconsin. We're going to have the Madison Scouts, which are out of Madison, Wisconsin. We're going to have the Troopers, which are out of Casper, Wyoming. We're going to have the Battalion out of Salt Lake City, and a group called the Colt Cadets out of Dubuque. Three of them are what they consider world-class corps. Two of them are in the top 12 in the country, and two are considered open-class corps."

The Hutchinson Sky Ryders will also perform for the first time in decades.

&nbsp;"We are going to have our first performance ensemble, it's what we call a sound sport ensemble," Antoine said.&nbsp; "We have, as of right now, around 62 kids signed up for our first performance in 35 years."

Sound sport is the new way that Drum Corps International lets new organizations get into the activity. The Hutchinson kids will stand and play on the 16th, without a drill.

"What they don't want is a drum corps to come out and say, hey, we're here, and they really don't have their act together, and they end up around for a year and really then going away," Antoine said. "They want to make sure that you start, you have all the things that you need to have done as far as your organizational, you have finances available. So it starts on a very smaller scale. It's about a two to three-year process, and then you would petition to go into work to open class for a year or so, and then you can petition to go into world class. It's a way to start that you can indoctrinate kids into what this is all about that maybe don't know exactly, and parents don't know what drum corps is, and take it kind of slow and make sure you have all the things that you need to have done in order."

The Sky Ryders did clinics this fall, and the performers are basically coming in on Monday and practicing most of Monday and all day Tuesday to perform that night. Box Office Assistance will be available starting at 6:30 p.m., with gates opening at 7:30 p.m. and the performances starting just before 8:30 p.m., with the Sky Ryders leading off.

The best way to get tickets is <a href="https://dcitickets.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=839">online</a>, they range from $25 to $32.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720005977685.jpeg" alt="A historical picture of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders drumline-Provided by Dale Antoine" />
 <figcaption>A historical picture of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders drumline-Provided by Dale Antoine</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dale Antoine with Drum Corps International and a former director of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders Corps is excited about the drum corps event coming to Gowans Stadium on July 16."We're going to have five Drum Corps from across the country," Antoine said. "We're going to have the Blue Stars, which are out of La Crosse, Wisconsin. We're going to have the Madison Scouts, which are out of Madison, Wisconsin. We're going to have the Troopers, which are out of Casper, Wyoming. We're going to have the Battalion out of Salt Lake City, and a group called the Colt Cadets out of Dubuque. Three of them are what they consider world-class corps. Two of them are in the top 12 in the country, and two are considered open-class corps."The Hutchinson Sky Ryders will also perform for the first time in decades.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720006008963.jpeg" alt="A historical picture of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders horn section-Provided by Dale Antoine" />
 <figcaption>A historical picture of the Hutchinson Sky Ryders horn section-Provided by Dale Antoine</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;"We are going to have our first performance ensemble, it's what we call a sound sport ensemble," Antoine said.&nbsp; "We have, as of right now, around 62 kids signed up for our first performance in 35 years."Sound sport is the new way that Drum Corps International lets new organizations get into the activity. The Hutchinson kids will stand and play on the 16th, without a drill."What they don't want is a drum corps to come out and say, hey, we're here, and they really don't have their act together, and they end up around for a year and really then going away," Antoine said. "They want to make sure that you start, you have all the things that you need to have done as far as your organizational, you have finances available. So it starts on a very smaller scale. It's about a two to three-year process, and then you would petition to go into work to open class for a year or so, and then you can petition to go into world class. It's a way to start that you can indoctrinate kids into what this is all about that maybe don't know exactly, and parents don't know what drum corps is, and take it kind of slow and make sure you have all the things that you need to have done in order."The Sky Ryders did clinics this fall, and the performers are basically coming in on Monday and practicing most of Monday and all day Tuesday to perform that night. Box Office Assistance will be available starting at 6:30 p.m., with gates opening at 7:30 p.m. and the performances starting just before 8:30 p.m., with the Sky Ryders leading off.The best way to get tickets is <a href="https://dcitickets.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=839">online</a>, they range from $25 to $32.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Hutchinson hosting drum corps event Tuesday

RICE COUNTY — Resurfacing will begin soon on K-14 in Rice County.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves a milling and hot-mix-asphalt overlay on K-14 from about a quarter of a mile north of Avenue T to the south city limits of Lyons. The length is about 6 miles.

The work is expected to begin around July 24&nbsp;and be completed around mid-August, with the work beginning north of Avenue T.

During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and expect up to a 15-minute delay.

Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the $1,857,293 project.

For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.org/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721079491308.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TIM POTTER KDOTRICE COUNTY — Resurfacing will begin soon on K-14 in Rice County.The Kansas Department of Transportation project involves a milling and hot-mix-asphalt overlay on K-14 from about a quarter of a mile north of Avenue T to the south city limits of Lyons. The length is about 6 miles.The work is expected to begin around July 24&nbsp;and be completed around mid-August, with the work beginning north of Avenue T.During the work, traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and expect up to a 15-minute delay.Venture Corp., of Great Bend, is the primary contractor for the $1,857,293 project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kandrive.org/">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

K-14 Rice County resurfacing coming up later this month

TOPEKA — On Monday, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced the appointment of Reno County Community Corrections Director Randy Regehr to the&nbsp;Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee.

The committee's purpose is to oversee the implementation of reform measures intended to improve the state's juvenile justice system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721079921398.jpeg" alt="Randy Regehr-Reno County Community Corrections Director" />
 <figcaption>Randy Regehr-Reno County Community Corrections Director</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — On Monday, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced the appointment of Reno County Community Corrections Director Randy Regehr to the&nbsp;Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee.The committee's purpose is to oversee the implementation of reform measures intended to improve the state's juvenile justice system.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Governor appoints Regehr to committee

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Start your shopping carts! Supply lists are out! 

Find your students' list at <a href="http://www.usd308.com/supplies?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0bv9mrYhPyJF3S2N_mRM-_xtho-vS2jScptGiiaAWN-iJLM6yOUjp7fuI_aem_QQbWh2GtdMuQzl97WQzMWg" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/supplies</a>

<a href="http://www.usd308.com/supplies?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0bv9mrYhPyJF3S2N_mRM-_xtho-vS2jScptGiiaAWN-iJLM6yOUjp7fuI_aem_QQbWh2GtdMuQzl97WQzMWg" target="_blank"></a>Please note: Teachers may have special requests for their supply list.

This information will be shared during open houses.

Hutchinson High School: Teachers will provide your student with a specific list the first weeks of school.

Pre-K: Parents will be notified of any necessary supplies after enrollment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721064044878.jpeg" alt="Graphic Courtesy Hutchinson USD 308" />
 <figcaption>Graphic Courtesy Hutchinson USD 308</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 308HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Start your shopping carts! Supply lists are out! Find your students' list at <a href="http://www.usd308.com/supplies?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0bv9mrYhPyJF3S2N_mRM-_xtho-vS2jScptGiiaAWN-iJLM6yOUjp7fuI_aem_QQbWh2GtdMuQzl97WQzMWg" target="_blank">www.usd308.com/supplies</a><a href="http://www.usd308.com/supplies?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR0bv9mrYhPyJF3S2N_mRM-_xtho-vS2jScptGiiaAWN-iJLM6yOUjp7fuI_aem_QQbWh2GtdMuQzl97WQzMWg" target="_blank"></a>Please note: Teachers may have special requests for their supply list. This information will be shared during open houses.Hutchinson High School: Teachers will provide your student with a specific list the first weeks of school.Pre-K: Parents will be notified of any necessary supplies after enrollment.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

USD 308 school supply lists available

NEWTON, Kan. — The old First Street water tank is coming down! The 3.8 million-gallon tank, which was built in 1939, was severely deteriorated and had to be replaced. 

A new 1.9 million-gallon tank was constructed just south along the creek and brought into service earlier this year. 

Once the old tank is gone, work will begin to construct a second new 1.9 million-gallon tank on the site.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721062466963.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy City of Newton" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy City of Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — The old First Street water tank is coming down! The 3.8 million-gallon tank, which was built in 1939, was severely deteriorated and had to be replaced. A new 1.9 million-gallon tank was constructed just south along the creek and brought into service earlier this year. Once the old tank is gone, work will begin to construct a second new 1.9 million-gallon tank on the site.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

85-year-old Newton infrastructure coming down

NEWTON, Kan. — The summer street paving work in the City of Newton continues.

Contractor Pearson Construction finished the mill and overlay on Medical Center Drive last week. 

On Tuesday, July 16, they will begin milling Quail Drive (Duncan to Meadowlark Lane) and Old Main (Southport Drive to Windward Drive). They will begin repaving with the overlay on Thursday in Quail Creek, followed by Old Main.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721054799261.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy City of Newton" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy City of Newton</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — The summer street paving work in the City of Newton continues.Contractor Pearson Construction finished the mill and overlay on Medical Center Drive last week. On Tuesday, July 16, they will begin milling Quail Drive (Duncan to Meadowlark Lane) and Old Main (Southport Drive to Windward Drive). They will begin repaving with the overlay on Thursday in Quail Creek, followed by Old Main.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Paving work going forward in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday will act to send its notice to the Reno County Clerk of the intent to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate for its 2025 budget.

At a budget discussion following the council's last meeting, there appeared to be a general consensus to attempt to keep the mill levy neutral,&nbsp;but allow the increases in valuation to increase revenues to help meet increasing expenses.

"I think that makes sense," Vice-Mayor Stacy Goss said. "I don't want to sacrifice the near future projects and maintenance and things that we have to do by slashing things too hard right now."

"That's where I kind of say we just keep the mill levy where it's at," Richardson said. "Don't decrease it at this point. The story is, look what's happened over the last five years with costs and budget and compare the two. Consumer price index or whatever index you want to use. I would be very transparent in regards to, I know we can find data that supports our story, but we need to show data that is accurate, not cherry pick. People see it on the news. People see it everywhere. It costs more to operate, whether it's a business or your home, and we're not sheltered from that, too much."

New City Manager Enrico Villegas agreed with the general direction, as well.

"One of the things that excites me about the direction the city wants to go, is the appetite to reinvest in itself," Villegas said. "Think of the downtown master plan and the zoo strategic plan that we just learned about today. It takes money to do that. As we want to invest in these other things for the betterment of the community, we need additional funding to do that. This is a way to help us get there. I just wanted to offer that opinion, as well, that I am definitely looking forward to the future of what we can do, we just need help to get there and that help is financial."

The city must finalize the 2025 budget in the coming months.

The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council on Tuesday will act to send its notice to the Reno County Clerk of the intent to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate for its 2025 budget.At a budget discussion following the council's last meeting, there appeared to be a general consensus to attempt to keep the mill levy neutral,&nbsp;but allow the increases in valuation to increase revenues to help meet increasing expenses."I think that makes sense," Vice-Mayor Stacy Goss said. "I don't want to sacrifice the near future projects and maintenance and things that we have to do by slashing things too hard right now."Council member Jon Richardson agreed."That's where I kind of say we just keep the mill levy where it's at," Richardson said. "Don't decrease it at this point. The story is, look what's happened over the last five years with costs and budget and compare the two. Consumer price index or whatever index you want to use. I would be very transparent in regards to, I know we can find data that supports our story, but we need to show data that is accurate, not cherry pick. People see it on the news. People see it everywhere. It costs more to operate, whether it's a business or your home, and we're not sheltered from that, too much."New City Manager Enrico Villegas agreed with the general direction, as well."One of the things that excites me about the direction the city wants to go, is the appetite to reinvest in itself," Villegas said. "Think of the downtown master plan and the zoo strategic plan that we just learned about today. It takes money to do that. As we want to invest in these other things for the betterment of the community, we need additional funding to do that. This is a way to help us get there. I just wanted to offer that opinion, as well, that I am definitely looking forward to the future of what we can do, we just need help to get there and that help is financial."The city must finalize the 2025 budget in the coming months.The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

City council to exceed revenue neutral rate

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The&nbsp;Clayworks at Disability Supports, in&nbsp;Hutchinson, recently installed a Watchfire digital display to modernize their brand image and improve community interactions.

"We see the Watchfire display as a worthy investment that will continue to benefit the community, the artists, and our mission for years to come." said Rick Staab, president and CEO of Disability Supports of the Great Plains.

The Clayworks at Disability Supports is a non-profit organization that has been providing a full range of services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for almost 30 years. Located in a high-traffic area of&nbsp;Hutchinson, The Clayworks replaced its existing 10mm Watchfire display with a state-of-the-art 6mm, 4'5" x 8'3" Watchfire digital display to promote its facility as a community gathering place that is welcoming, supportive, and provides an opportunity to support its disabled citizens.

The Clayworks is a multi-use building that primarily serves to enable disabled citizens to create artwork they can sell nationally through the on-site gift shop, promoting confidence and self-sufficiency. This beautifully renovated space, which originally served as a medical clinic, also brings community members together by featuring a retail coffee shop, a culinary arts demonstration kitchen, collaborative meeting spaces, and an outdoor garden and basketball court.

"Our mission to create a higher standard of care for people with intellectual disabilities is well represented through the Watchfire display," Staab said. "The display serves as a real touchstone in the community. We showcase students' artwork, invite community members to enjoy our amenities, and share timely messages that promote local events and organizations. We see the Watchfire display as a worthy investment that will continue to benefit the community, the artists, and our mission for years to come."

Upgrades of previous Watchfire displays were acquired in partnership with&nbsp;Kansas-based sign company Luminous Neon, Inc.&nbsp;Tom Sellers, CEO of Luminous Neon, cites Watchfire's quality products, customer service, and sales support, as the key factors in their nearly 20-year relationship.

For more information about Watchfire and its products, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://usw2.nyl.as/t1/286/a8fnlvpwdhha575yctze5jkc4/0/d40bf01f77b1990a7340a7df2d7b20229f95a8a5a522dafa5e30cd2eea1c43cc">watchfiresigns.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720799726477.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy Clarus" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Clarus</figcaption>
 </figure>Release from ClarusHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The&nbsp;Clayworks at Disability Supports, in&nbsp;Hutchinson, recently installed a Watchfire digital display to modernize their brand image and improve community interactions."We see the Watchfire display as a worthy investment that will continue to benefit the community, the artists, and our mission for years to come." said Rick Staab, president and CEO of Disability Supports of the Great Plains.The Clayworks at Disability Supports is a non-profit organization that has been providing a full range of services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for almost 30 years. Located in a high-traffic area of&nbsp;Hutchinson, The Clayworks replaced its existing 10mm Watchfire display with a state-of-the-art 6mm, 4'5" x 8'3" Watchfire digital display to promote its facility as a community gathering place that is welcoming, supportive, and provides an opportunity to support its disabled citizens.The Clayworks is a multi-use building that primarily serves to enable disabled citizens to create artwork they can sell nationally through the on-site gift shop, promoting confidence and self-sufficiency. This beautifully renovated space, which originally served as a medical clinic, also brings community members together by featuring a retail coffee shop, a culinary arts demonstration kitchen, collaborative meeting spaces, and an outdoor garden and basketball court."Our mission to create a higher standard of care for people with intellectual disabilities is well represented through the Watchfire display," Staab said. "The display serves as a real touchstone in the community. We showcase students' artwork, invite community members to enjoy our amenities, and share timely messages that promote local events and organizations. We see the Watchfire display as a worthy investment that will continue to benefit the community, the artists, and our mission for years to come."Upgrades of previous Watchfire displays were acquired in partnership with&nbsp;Kansas-based sign company Luminous Neon, Inc.&nbsp;Tom Sellers, CEO of Luminous Neon, cites Watchfire's quality products, customer service, and sales support, as the key factors in their nearly 20-year relationship.For more information about Watchfire and its products, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://usw2.nyl.as/t1/286/a8fnlvpwdhha575yctze5jkc4/0/d40bf01f77b1990a7340a7df2d7b20229f95a8a5a522dafa5e30cd2eea1c43cc">watchfiresigns.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Clayworks sign upgrade is 'worthy investment'

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;If you're looking for a pet, go to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter between now and the end of the month and you can save some money.

"It's a program called Empty the Shelters," said Michaela Schommer with the Hutchinson Animal Shelter. "If you know anything about Bissell, the brand, Bissell is, most people know of them as the vacuums, Bissell Vacuums and Carpet Cleaners. They have a nonprofit branch, a foundation that they formed, and they fundraise and they donate to animal welfare organizations nationally. The Bissell Foundation is an incredible animal welfare foundation, and we appreciate them. They are currently sponsoring, for any shelter that's participating right now through July 31st, sponsoring portions of our adoption fees, which is allowing then shelters to be able to reduce those adoption fees. And we are doing all of our dogs, whether it's a dog, adult dog or a puppy or senior, at a flat $50 adoption fee. And then all of our cats, whether it's an adult or kitten, at a $25 adoption fee."

If you want to add a pet to your family, it's easiest to do it in the summer months.

"Now's the time during the summer," Schommer said. "Once school starts, you got new routines, you're busy with school and getting kids off to sports and whatnot. You know, pets and kids together can be a wonderful thing if they're managed appropriately, and you're teaching the children who are old enough how to have some responsibility in taking care of those pets."

Also, some vet care has been done for you before you adopt.

"Those animals are going home spayed or neutered,microchipped and registered to you," Schommer said. "If it's a dog, it comes with its first year city license, its rabies vaccines, heartworm tests, all the same things we would normally do are still covered."

To set an appointment to adopt, call the Animal Shelter at (620) 694-1924 on Tuesday, Thursday or Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713282938300.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Animal Shelter" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Animal Shelter</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;If you're looking for a pet, go to the Hutchinson Animal Shelter between now and the end of the month and you can save some money."It's a program called Empty the Shelters," said Michaela Schommer with the Hutchinson Animal Shelter. "If you know anything about Bissell, the brand, Bissell is, most people know of them as the vacuums, Bissell Vacuums and Carpet Cleaners. They have a nonprofit branch, a foundation that they formed, and they fundraise and they donate to animal welfare organizations nationally. The Bissell Foundation is an incredible animal welfare foundation, and we appreciate them. They are currently sponsoring, for any shelter that's participating right now through July 31st, sponsoring portions of our adoption fees, which is allowing then shelters to be able to reduce those adoption fees. And we are doing all of our dogs, whether it's a dog, adult dog or a puppy or senior, at a flat $50 adoption fee. And then all of our cats, whether it's an adult or kitten, at a $25 adoption fee."If you want to add a pet to your family, it's easiest to do it in the summer months."Now's the time during the summer," Schommer said. "Once school starts, you got new routines, you're busy with school and getting kids off to sports and whatnot. You know, pets and kids together can be a wonderful thing if they're managed appropriately, and you're teaching the children who are old enough how to have some responsibility in taking care of those pets."Also, some vet care has been done for you before you adopt."Those animals are going home spayed or neutered,microchipped and registered to you," Schommer said. "If it's a dog, it comes with its first year city license, its rabies vaccines, heartworm tests, all the same things we would normally do are still covered."To set an appointment to adopt, call the Animal Shelter at (620) 694-1924 on Tuesday, Thursday or Friday.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

Local