Department for Children and Families

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF)&nbsp; on Tuesday announced a new approach to improving the health, social, and economic outcomes of the next generation. By utilizing $11.5 million of the agency’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding, DCF is launching 2Gen Kansas.

The two-generation (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNjZW5kLmFzcGVuaW5zdGl0dXRlLm9yZy8yZ2VuLWFwcHJvYWNoLyM6fjp0ZXh0PVR3by1nZW5lcmF0aW9uJTIwJTI4MkdlbiUyOSUyMGFwcHJvYWNoZXMlMjBidWlsZCUyMGZhbWlseSUyMHdlbGwtYmVpbmclMjBieSUyMGludGVudGlvbmFsbHksdGhhdCUyMHBhc3NlcyUyMGZyb20lMjBvbmUlMjBnZW5lcmF0aW9uJTIwdG8lMjB0aGUlMjBuZXh0LiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMTkuOTIwMjc5NzEifQ.ESA8bcH9WT2vwj-HnDQl7AgcBy5YEueE8x-sLTBnn3k/s/2958202522/br/239087123959-l" target="_blank">2Gen Approach</a>), led by Ascend at the Aspen Institute, works to end intergenerational poverty by supporting children and their parents or care providers – as a family unit – to move the whole family forward. Ten organizations will receive funding.

“We believe this approach will build family well-being by intentionally and simultaneously working with children and the adults in their lives,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “This support will increase opportunities for families to become stable, connected and empower them to progress towards their personal, educational and career goals.”

The agencies will serve as an access point by assisting families in applying for programs such as Food Assistance, also known as SNAP, USDA Commodity Programs, Child Care Assistance, Low Income Energy Assistance Program, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services. They will be required to participate in ongoing training and collaborative meetings and recommend one parent being served by their organizations to serve on a statewide 2Gen parent advisory council.

“It will result in coordinated access to systems and structures that are necessary for families to thrive economically and socially,” she continued.

“Kansas DCF joins a growing number of state agencies implementing 2Gen approaches to unlock the potential of children and their families together,” said Marjorie Sims, Managing Director of Ascend at the Aspen Institute. “Adopting this family-centered mindset not only boosts the well-being of children and their parents, but it also offers a model to better integrate the systems of support for these communities. We are energized by DCF’s investment in families, which is a culmination of years of work from family-serving organizations across the state and country.”

The 10 contracts will be in place from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026, with an optional renewal of one additional two-year grant. DCF received 24 proposals and the two Hutch Post area awardees are&nbsp;Mental Health Association of South-Central Kansas, Inc. for&nbsp;$409,053.04 and the&nbsp;Kansas Alliance of Boys &amp; Girls Clubs for&nbsp;$3,487,725.00.

Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas, Inc: Service provisions will include familial case management, family mentoring, parental and familial education utilizing the Strengthening Families curriculum, and access to mental health/or substance use treatment. The organization will track outcomes for children and caregivers simultaneously, as well as goals focusing on the entire family; to offer comprehensive wrap-around services designed to empower families to make progress towards eliminating the cycle of poverty. Youth will receive mentoring and leadership skills training to propel them forward, while parents will receive parent training, prosocial skills, and assistance with job seeking. The entire family will receive mental health services, education in communication and boundaries, and mentoring support.

Kansas Alliance of Boys &amp; Girls Clubs, BGC Statewide 2Gen Project: The Alliance will provide subgrants to 13 partner Boys &amp; Girls Clubs who will, together with 27 partner organizations, expand opportunities for low-income children and families to increase their economic stability, make progress on their educational goals, deepen their social connections, and improve their health and well-being. The Alliance will focus on the Child-Parent approach. Performance measures for youth include on-time grade progression, career exploration, financial literacy, improved social adjustment, and social-emotional skills. Performance measures for adults include increased knowledge of strategies to support their children’s learning, increased economic stability, increased confidence in raising healthy children, and increased knowledge of how to access health insurance for themselves and their children.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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/2021/9/1632417020028.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Department for Children and FamiliesTOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF)&nbsp; on Tuesday announced a new approach to improving the health, social, and economic outcomes of the next generation. By utilizing $11.5 million of the agency’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funding, DCF is launching 2Gen Kansas.The two-generation (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNjZW5kLmFzcGVuaW5zdGl0dXRlLm9yZy8yZ2VuLWFwcHJvYWNoLyM6fjp0ZXh0PVR3by1nZW5lcmF0aW9uJTIwJTI4MkdlbiUyOSUyMGFwcHJvYWNoZXMlMjBidWlsZCUyMGZhbWlseSUyMHdlbGwtYmVpbmclMjBieSUyMGludGVudGlvbmFsbHksdGhhdCUyMHBhc3NlcyUyMGZyb20lMjBvbmUlMjBnZW5lcmF0aW9uJTIwdG8lMjB0aGUlMjBuZXh0LiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMTkuOTIwMjc5NzEifQ.ESA8bcH9WT2vwj-HnDQl7AgcBy5YEueE8x-sLTBnn3k/s/2958202522/br/239087123959-l" target="_blank">2Gen Approach</a>), led by Ascend at the Aspen Institute, works to end intergenerational poverty by supporting children and their parents or care providers – as a family unit – to move the whole family forward. Ten organizations will receive funding.“We believe this approach will build family well-being by intentionally and simultaneously working with children and the adults in their lives,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “This support will increase opportunities for families to become stable, connected and empower them to progress towards their personal, educational and career goals.”The agencies will serve as an access point by assisting families in applying for programs such as Food Assistance, also known as SNAP, USDA Commodity Programs, Child Care Assistance, Low Income Energy Assistance Program, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services. They will be required to participate in ongoing training and collaborative meetings and recommend one parent being served by their organizations to serve on a statewide 2Gen parent advisory council.“It will result in coordinated access to systems and structures that are necessary for families to thrive economically and socially,” she continued.“Kansas DCF joins a growing number of state agencies implementing 2Gen approaches to unlock the potential of children and their families together,” said Marjorie Sims, Managing Director of Ascend at the Aspen Institute. “Adopting this family-centered mindset not only boosts the well-being of children and their parents, but it also offers a model to better integrate the systems of support for these communities. We are energized by DCF’s investment in families, which is a culmination of years of work from family-serving organizations across the state and country.”The 10 contracts will be in place from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026, with an optional renewal of one additional two-year grant. DCF received 24 proposals and the two Hutch Post area awardees are&nbsp;Mental Health Association of South-Central Kansas, Inc. for&nbsp;$409,053.04 and the&nbsp;Kansas Alliance of Boys &amp; Girls Clubs for&nbsp;$3,487,725.00.Details of the projects are below:Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas, Inc: Service provisions will include familial case management, family mentoring, parental and familial education utilizing the Strengthening Families curriculum, and access to mental health/or substance use treatment. The organization will track outcomes for children and caregivers simultaneously, as well as goals focusing on the entire family; to offer comprehensive wrap-around services designed to empower families to make progress towards eliminating the cycle of poverty. Youth will receive mentoring and leadership skills training to propel them forward, while parents will receive parent training, prosocial skills, and assistance with job seeking. The entire family will receive mental health services, education in communication and boundaries, and mentoring support.Kansas Alliance of Boys &amp; Girls Clubs, BGC Statewide 2Gen Project: The Alliance will provide subgrants to 13 partner Boys &amp; Girls Clubs who will, together with 27 partner organizations, expand opportunities for low-income children and families to increase their economic stability, make progress on their educational goals, deepen their social connections, and improve their health and well-being. The Alliance will focus on the Child-Parent approach. Performance measures for youth include on-time grade progression, career exploration, financial literacy, improved social adjustment, and social-emotional skills. Performance measures for adults include increased knowledge of strategies to support their children’s learning, increased economic stability, increased confidence in raising healthy children, and increased knowledge of how to access health insurance for themselves and their children.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

DCF awards 2Gen Kansas funding

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Interim City Manager Mary Grace Clements noted at Tuesday's Hutchinson City Council meeting that a big step for the new Hilton Garden Inn on Waldron next to Aldi is scheduled to happen on Wednesday.

"Right now, they are planning on pouring the entire floor of the hotel in one day," Clements said. "We're anticipating that. The contractor, this is their plan. We envision a lot of different trucks, heavy equipment rolling into the area, which could cause some traffic challenges."

That is of concern because of the project's proximity to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center.

"We're looking at how we can let EMS know," Clements said. "Coordinate how we can navigate with the traffic coming in and out and people trying to get into those restaurants. It's one day of heartburn for a lot of goodwill for the community. We hope that you all can be patient with us as we work through this. It's an exciting day, because the next phase of this is happening."

This is important to be able to show to NJCAA officials as they come to town for the tournament.

"It was really important that they see progress and that they get some assurance that facility is going to be open by next March," said Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel. "They've been not just moving dirt. It looks like they're getting a lot of infrastructure in the ground first, before it starts going vertical. She's very hopeful things are going to start going vertical before the officials arrive."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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/2023/10/1698705945819.jpeg" alt="Community leaders from across Hutchinson joined Amber Hotel, LLC developers and city officials, along with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce at a groundbreaking for the new Hilton Garden Inn on October 30, 2023. Photo by Nick Gosnell." />
 <figcaption>Community leaders from across Hutchinson joined Amber Hotel, LLC developers and city officials, along with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce at a groundbreaking for the new Hilton Garden Inn on October 30, 2023. Photo by Nick Gosnell.</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Hutchinson Interim City Manager Mary Grace Clements noted at Tuesday's Hutchinson City Council meeting that a big step for the new Hilton Garden Inn on Waldron next to Aldi is scheduled to happen on Wednesday."Right now, they are planning on pouring the entire floor of the hotel in one day," Clements said. "We're anticipating that. The contractor, this is their plan. We envision a lot of different trucks, heavy equipment rolling into the area, which could cause some traffic challenges."That is of concern because of the project's proximity to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center."We're looking at how we can let EMS know," Clements said. "Coordinate how we can navigate with the traffic coming in and out and people trying to get into those restaurants. It's one day of heartburn for a lot of goodwill for the community. We hope that you all can be patient with us as we work through this. It's an exciting day, because the next phase of this is happening."This is important to be able to show to NJCAA officials as they come to town for the tournament."It was really important that they see progress and that they get some assurance that facility is going to be open by next March," said Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel. "They've been not just moving dirt. It looks like they're getting a lot of infrastructure in the ground first, before it starts going vertical. She's very hopeful things are going to start going vertical before the officials arrive."The tournament starts Sunday, March 24.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

Major step forward scheduled for hotel project

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved the 2023 waterline project at their meeting on Tuesday.

According to agenda documents, the City of Hutchinson completed a waterline condition audit that indicated that the City needs to replace 3 miles of waterline per year (roughly 1% of the system annually). The city will replace 1.5 miles due to budget constraints. The waterlines chosen for replacement in 2023 were installed between 1925 and 1968. The audit identified the age and sections requiring the most maintenance as the starting point.

The project will consist of the new installation of 1,225 linear feet of 8” water main pipe and 3,406 linear feet of 6” water main pipe at various locations generally bound between K-61 and Town/1st and 9th.

The Kansas State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan agreement currently held by the City will be the funding source of this project. The loan amount is $1,205,000, interest rate of 2.13%, and loan duration of up to 20 years.

"State Revolving Fund projects are complicated and come with many state and federal requirements that the city and the contractor must follow," said Jim Weber, Consulting Engineer with JEO Consulting. "We received bids on Feb. 7. Following the bid opening, we went through a rigorous review to make sure they met the requirements of the loan agreement.

JEO Consulting performed an Engineer’s Review of Bids and Recommendation of Award. The recommendation is&nbsp;to sign the contract with APAC – Kansas, Inc. in the amount of $1,098,607.00. APAC was not the low bidder on the project.

"One of the requirements of the specifications is that the contractors be pre-qualified to perform the type of work involved in the project, as is common with most projects here at the City of Hutch," Weber said. "We use a KDOT pre-qualified bidders list for the types of work that are to be performed. KDOT reviews contractor qualifications annually, based on financial capacity, technical abilities, and the equipment that they have. Contractors voluntarily submit this information to KDOT. All of the bidders in this case have regularly submitted to KDOT and we have to look at what the actual qualifications are. There are 26 different classifications for qualification. We recommended that contractors for this project should be qualified in classification I, which is miscellaneous concrete and classification J, which is pipe."

The low bidder was not on the list as qualified for pipe.

"Pipe installation is the primary purpose of the project," Weber said. "We felt, under the circumstances, that the low bidder is not qualified to perform the project."

Ward Davis Builders was the low bidder, but only by about $60,000. The contract with APAC was approved 4-0. Jon Richardson was absent for the vote Tuesday.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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/2023/12/1701873554873.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved the 2023 waterline project at their meeting on Tuesday.According to agenda documents, the City of Hutchinson completed a waterline condition audit that indicated that the City needs to replace 3 miles of waterline per year (roughly 1% of the system annually). The city will replace 1.5 miles due to budget constraints. The waterlines chosen for replacement in 2023 were installed between 1925 and 1968. The audit identified the age and sections requiring the most maintenance as the starting point.The project will consist of the new installation of 1,225 linear feet of 8” water main pipe and 3,406 linear feet of 6” water main pipe at various locations generally bound between K-61 and Town/1st and 9th.The Kansas State Revolving Fund (SRF) loan agreement currently held by the City will be the funding source of this project. The loan amount is $1,205,000, interest rate of 2.13%, and loan duration of up to 20 years."State Revolving Fund projects are complicated and come with many state and federal requirements that the city and the contractor must follow," said Jim Weber, Consulting Engineer with JEO Consulting. "We received bids on Feb. 7. Following the bid opening, we went through a rigorous review to make sure they met the requirements of the loan agreement.JEO Consulting performed an Engineer’s Review of Bids and Recommendation of Award. The recommendation is&nbsp;to sign the contract with APAC – Kansas, Inc. in the amount of $1,098,607.00. APAC was not the low bidder on the project."One of the requirements of the specifications is that the contractors be pre-qualified to perform the type of work involved in the project, as is common with most projects here at the City of Hutch," Weber said. "We use a KDOT pre-qualified bidders list for the types of work that are to be performed. KDOT reviews contractor qualifications annually, based on financial capacity, technical abilities, and the equipment that they have. Contractors voluntarily submit this information to KDOT. All of the bidders in this case have regularly submitted to KDOT and we have to look at what the actual qualifications are. There are 26 different classifications for qualification. We recommended that contractors for this project should be qualified in classification I, which is miscellaneous concrete and classification J, which is pipe."The low bidder was not on the list as qualified for pipe."Pipe installation is the primary purpose of the project," Weber said. "We felt, under the circumstances, that the low bidder is not qualified to perform the project."Ward Davis Builders was the low bidder, but only by about $60,000. The contract with APAC was approved 4-0. Jon Richardson was absent for the vote Tuesday.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

Waterline project approved

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Interim City Manager Mary Grace Clements is pleased that the city has found funds to do additional work in its SAFE Sidewalks program this year.

"We have allocated in the budget $50,000, as we did in 2023," Clements said. "The way the program works, you can apply to have your sidewalk fixed. If you're a homeowner, it is a 95 to 5 percent split. That's 95 percent the city pays and 5 percent the homeowner pays. Our team will come out, assess what it is, we'll say, this is how much it is. This is your portion. If you're willing to do this and we accept that work, then you'd have to pay that."

The split for landlords is 80/20. In other words, the city would pay 80%, with the landlord paying 20%. They are also expanding the opportunities with additional funding.

"Because we want to get much more sidewalks repaired, we're trying for this year, not only is that program happening, the $50,000, but we've allocated an extra $25,000 for 2024," Clements said. "With that money, we're allocating to say, hey homeowners or landlords, how about a 50/50 split with the city?"

As a reminder, there are criteria for the SAFE Sidewalk Program Funding.

First and foremost, to participate in the program the property must be located within the City of Hutchinson city limits.

The property owner(s) must not have outstanding permit violations and no outstanding indebtedness to the city. 

Priority will be given to neighborhoods without existing sidewalks.

Priority also will go to those in a featured neighborhood.

You have a better chance with proximity to amenities (grocery store, laundromat, hospital, school, doctor, dentist).

Staff will also check the status of the sidewalk in front of the subject requested property for installment/replacement/repair.

Staff will also make choices in alignment with the Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan.

<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/2022/7/1658521634793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Interim City Manager Mary Grace Clements is pleased that the city has found funds to do additional work in its SAFE Sidewalks program this year."We have allocated in the budget $50,000, as we did in 2023," Clements said. "The way the program works, you can apply to have your sidewalk fixed. If you're a homeowner, it is a 95 to 5 percent split. That's 95 percent the city pays and 5 percent the homeowner pays. Our team will come out, assess what it is, we'll say, this is how much it is. This is your portion. If you're willing to do this and we accept that work, then you'd have to pay that."The split for landlords is 80/20. In other words, the city would pay 80%, with the landlord paying 20%. They are also expanding the opportunities with additional funding."Because we want to get much more sidewalks repaired, we're trying for this year, not only is that program happening, the $50,000, but we've allocated an extra $25,000 for 2024," Clements said. "With that money, we're allocating to say, hey homeowners or landlords, how about a 50/50 split with the city?"As a reminder, there are criteria for the SAFE Sidewalk Program Funding.First and foremost, to participate in the program the property must be located within the City of Hutchinson city limits.The property owner(s) must not have outstanding permit violations and no outstanding indebtedness to the city. Priority will be given to neighborhoods without existing sidewalks.Priority also will go to those in a featured neighborhood.You have a better chance with proximity to amenities (grocery store, laundromat, hospital, school, doctor, dentist).Staff will also check the status of the sidewalk in front of the subject requested property for installment/replacement/repair.Staff will also make choices in alignment with the Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan.<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 looking to expand sidewalks program

MCPHERSON, Kan. — The City of McPherson announced Monday the appointment of Chad Mayberry as new Fire Chief for the McPherson Fire Department.

Mayberry’s appointment was announced at the most recent City of McPherson Commission weekly meeting, ending a search that resulted in four finalists — all of whom were interviewed by a panel made up of regional fire and emergency personnel.

Mayberry brings to McPherson more than 31 years of fire and emergency medical service experience. He has served at the City of Winfield Fire Department since 2001, where he worked his way up the ranks. The Winfield Fire Department merged with EMS services in 2014. He currently serves as the department’s fire marshal, a position he’s held since 2017.

Among a long list of accreditations and accomplishments, Mayberry has served in different capacities with Kansas Task Force 5 (Search and Rescue), of which the McPherson Department is part.

Mayberry holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Southwestern College and Associate of Applied Science Degree from Hutchinson Community College, and most recently completed the Managing Office Program at the National Fire Academy in 2018 and obtained a Management and Supervision certificate from the Center for Management Development at Wichita State University.

Mayberry also has served as adjunct instructor of fire science at Butler County Community College as well as Cowley College. He currently is lead adjunct professor for the program at Cowley. He also serves in several community leadership roles, among them a vice presidency with the USD 465 Board of Education.

Mayberry’s start date is April 29, 2024. He and his wife, Nancy, have two children.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710810908078.jpeg" alt="McPherson Fire Chief Chad Mayberry" />
 <figcaption>McPherson Fire Chief Chad Mayberry</figcaption>
 </figure>City of McPhersonMCPHERSON, Kan. — The City of McPherson announced Monday the appointment of Chad Mayberry as new Fire Chief for the McPherson Fire Department.Mayberry’s appointment was announced at the most recent City of McPherson Commission weekly meeting, ending a search that resulted in four finalists — all of whom were interviewed by a panel made up of regional fire and emergency personnel.Mayberry brings to McPherson more than 31 years of fire and emergency medical service experience. He has served at the City of Winfield Fire Department since 2001, where he worked his way up the ranks. The Winfield Fire Department merged with EMS services in 2014. He currently serves as the department’s fire marshal, a position he’s held since 2017.Among a long list of accreditations and accomplishments, Mayberry has served in different capacities with Kansas Task Force 5 (Search and Rescue), of which the McPherson Department is part.Mayberry holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Southwestern College and Associate of Applied Science Degree from Hutchinson Community College, and most recently completed the Managing Office Program at the National Fire Academy in 2018 and obtained a Management and Supervision certificate from the Center for Management Development at Wichita State University.Mayberry also has served as adjunct instructor of fire science at Butler County Community College as well as Cowley College. He currently is lead adjunct professor for the program at Cowley. He also serves in several community leadership roles, among them a vice presidency with the USD 465 Board of Education.Mayberry’s start date is April 29, 2024. He and his wife, Nancy, have two children.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

McPherson hires fire chief

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Join StartUp Hutch for an evening of networking and collaboration at Entrepreneurship Connections. This month, they welcome Dave Sotelo, the new Director of Strategic Growth at the City of Hutchinson, as the featured guest speaker.

This event is free, but StartUp Hutch is offering a free drink ticket to those who register in advance.

Entrepreneurship Connections is a free networking event with activities that promote discussion and interaction among entrepreneurs. The event is for aspiring or experienced entrepreneurs in the Reno County area. 

The event is Tuesday, March 19 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Sandhills Brewing at 111 W. 2nd Avenue in Hutchinson.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707327093447.jpeg" alt="Dave Sotelo-Director of Strategic Growth" />
 <figcaption>Dave Sotelo-Director of Strategic Growth</figcaption>
 </figure>StartUp HutchHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Join StartUp Hutch for an evening of networking and collaboration at Entrepreneurship Connections. This month, they welcome Dave Sotelo, the new Director of Strategic Growth at the City of Hutchinson, as the featured guest speaker.This event is free, but StartUp Hutch is offering a free drink ticket to those who register in advance.Entrepreneurship Connections is a free networking event with activities that promote discussion and interaction among entrepreneurs. The event is for aspiring or experienced entrepreneurs in the Reno County area. The event is Tuesday, March 19 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Sandhills Brewing at 111 W. 2nd Avenue in Hutchinson.<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;

New Director of Strategic Growth at StartUp Hutch event tonight

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Two ramps at the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction will be closed soon as part of a K-14 patching project in Reno County.

The first ramp closure is expected to begin Monday, March 25, on the ramp connecting westbound U.S. 50 to northbound K-14. That closure is expected to end around Thursday, March 28.

The next closure is expected to begin around Thursday, March 28, on the ramp connecting southbound K-14 to westbound U.S. 50. That closure is expected to end around Tuesday, April 2.

During the ramp closures, motorists should seek other routes.

The ramp closures are part of a nearly $3.6 million patching project on K-14. The Kansas Department of Transportation project is from the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction north to Yaggy Road.&nbsp;The length is almost 7 miles.

The work began Monday, March 18, and is expected to be completed around mid-August.

During the work, K-14 traffic will be restricted to one lane and controlled by flaggers or a pilot car. Ramps will be closed at times. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.

Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., of Victor, Iowa, is the primary contractor for the $3,559,085 project.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710812884124.png" alt="Project areas are marked in red." />
 <figcaption>Project areas are marked in red.</figcaption>
 </figure>TIM POTTER KDOTRENO COUNTY, Kan. — Two ramps at the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction will be closed soon as part of a K-14 patching project in Reno County.The first ramp closure is expected to begin Monday, March 25, on the ramp connecting westbound U.S. 50 to northbound K-14. That closure is expected to end around Thursday, March 28.The next closure is expected to begin around Thursday, March 28, on the ramp connecting southbound K-14 to westbound U.S. 50. That closure is expected to end around Tuesday, April 2.During the ramp closures, motorists should seek other routes.The ramp closures are part of a nearly $3.6 million patching project on K-14. The Kansas Department of Transportation project is from the west K-14/U.S. 50 junction north to Yaggy Road.&nbsp;The length is almost 7 miles.The work began Monday, March 18, and is expected to be completed around mid-August.During the work, K-14 traffic will be restricted to one lane and controlled by flaggers or a pilot car. Ramps will be closed at times. Motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and face delays of up to 15 minutes.Iowa Civil Contracting Inc., of Victor, Iowa, is the primary contractor for the $3,559,085 project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">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;

Ramps to close starting next week

There are fewer than 2 million farms in the United States according to the USDA Census of Agriculture released last month, down from a peak of just under 7 million in the early 1930s. Any agricultural enterprise with at least $1,000 in sales was counted as a farm, which excludes the family vegetable garden.

The census, which began in 1840 and has been conducted every five years since 1920, is the best source of comprehensive and impartial information about the state of agriculture down to the county level available. The trends it reveals, like fewer farms, older farmers and less farmland are not necessarily new, but it will inform decisions for a variety of stakeholders ranging from farmers and ranchers to private companies and cooperatives.

The census showed Kansas followed the national trend with 55,734 farms, down almost 3,000 from the last count in 2017 and the lowest total in 25 years. The average size was 804 acres, up 25 acres from five years ago. That total would be higher, but all land devoted to farming fell by nearly 1 million acres to 44,784,702 acres.

Less than a third of farms had sales of $100,000 or more in 2022. The vast majority of Kansas farms are owned by an individual, family or through a partnership. Just under 7 percent of farms are corporations, most of which are still family owned enterprises.

While the number of farms shrank, the number of farmers topped 100,000, with more than a third of that total being women. The average age of a Kansas farmer increased slightly to 58.2 years (0.2 above the national average), but the number of farmers 34 and younger grew by more than 1,100 to 9,700.

It just so happens 2022 was a good year for farmers on the revenue side, with Kansas producers earning just under $24 billion. Livestock accounted for $15.5 billion of the total sales with crops adding $8.4 billion. The expense side of the ledger tallied $21.5 billion, leaving a gross profit of about $2.5 billion, or less than $45,000 per farm. It helps put in perspective how thin the margins are in farming, especially when the average acre costs $2,324 and the average farm has more than $200,000 worth of machinery and equipment.

Taken as a whole, the census shows there are challenges and opportunities in agriculture. The job has never been easy, but small and medium farms are the most strained in today’s current environment. It says something about the nature of farmers and ranchers that their ranks are growing. Though it’s a tough way to make a living, farming and ranching does provide an appealing lifestyle.

What we should all keep in mind with the census is it’s not the counting of farms that matters, rather how we can best use the information to support the people working the fields. Remember the ones who count every time you eat.

"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/2023/6/1687183475033.png" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauThere are fewer than 2 million farms in the United States according to the USDA Census of Agriculture released last month, down from a peak of just under 7 million in the early 1930s. Any agricultural enterprise with at least $1,000 in sales was counted as a farm, which excludes the family vegetable garden.The census, which began in 1840 and has been conducted every five years since 1920, is the best source of comprehensive and impartial information about the state of agriculture down to the county level available. The trends it reveals, like fewer farms, older farmers and less farmland are not necessarily new, but it will inform decisions for a variety of stakeholders ranging from farmers and ranchers to private companies and cooperatives.The census showed Kansas followed the national trend with 55,734 farms, down almost 3,000 from the last count in 2017 and the lowest total in 25 years. The average size was 804 acres, up 25 acres from five years ago. That total would be higher, but all land devoted to farming fell by nearly 1 million acres to 44,784,702 acres.Less than a third of farms had sales of $100,000 or more in 2022. The vast majority of Kansas farms are owned by an individual, family or through a partnership. Just under 7 percent of farms are corporations, most of which are still family owned enterprises.While the number of farms shrank, the number of farmers topped 100,000, with more than a third of that total being women. The average age of a Kansas farmer increased slightly to 58.2 years (0.2 above the national average), but the number of farmers 34 and younger grew by more than 1,100 to 9,700.It just so happens 2022 was a good year for farmers on the revenue side, with Kansas producers earning just under $24 billion. Livestock accounted for $15.5 billion of the total sales with crops adding $8.4 billion. The expense side of the ledger tallied $21.5 billion, leaving a gross profit of about $2.5 billion, or less than $45,000 per farm. It helps put in perspective how thin the margins are in farming, especially when the average acre costs $2,324 and the average farm has more than $200,000 worth of machinery and equipment.Taken as a whole, the census shows there are challenges and opportunities in agriculture. The job has never been easy, but small and medium farms are the most strained in today’s current environment. It says something about the nature of farmers and ranchers that their ranks are growing. Though it’s a tough way to make a living, farming and ranching does provide an appealing lifestyle.What we should all keep in mind with the census is it’s not the counting of farms that matters, rather how we can best use the information to support the people working the fields. Remember the ones who count every time you eat."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.

Insight: Counting Farms

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;

3/18/2024 11:37 PM-Salvador Duran	Jr.-Agg battery; Knowingly cause angry phys contact

3/18/2024 10:35 PM-Cassondra	Marie Scott-Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon; Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

3/18/2024 10:33 PM-David	Bryce Terry-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000&nbsp;

3/18/2024 6:16 PM-Maysen	Alexender Ray Terrell-Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)

3/18/2024 11:21 AM-Timothy	James Hoffman-Probation Violation

3/18/2024 11:09 AM-Jeromy	James Louser-Probation Violation

<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;3/18/2024 11:37 PM-Salvador Duran	Jr.-Agg battery; Knowingly cause angry phys contact3/18/2024 10:35 PM-Cassondra	Marie Scott-Agg battery; Knowingly use deadly weapon; Viol protection order; Pre-trial order3/18/2024 10:33 PM-David	Bryce Terry-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000&nbsp;3/18/2024 6:16 PM-Maysen	Alexender Ray Terrell-Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)3/18/2024 11:21 AM-Timothy	James Hoffman-Probation Violation3/18/2024 11:09 AM-Jeromy	James Louser-Probation Violation

Daily Bookings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — At Monday night's Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education meeting, the board approved the appointment of Valarie Gibson-Smith to the unexpired term of Kail Denison. 

Gibson-Smith had lost her seat in the fall 2023 election, but prior to that time, was board president following the departure of Greg Meredith, who moved out of the district.

Gibson-Smith's new seat will be up for election in the fall of 2025.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn" />
 <figcaption>USD 308 Admin Building-Photo by Daren Dunn</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — At Monday night's Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education meeting, the board approved the appointment of Valarie Gibson-Smith to the unexpired term of Kail Denison. Gibson-Smith had lost her seat in the fall 2023 election, but prior to that time, was board president following the departure of Greg Meredith, who moved out of the district.Gibson-Smith's new seat will be up for election in the fall of 2025.<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;

Gibson-Smith to return to USD 308 Board of Education

SUMNER COUNTY — A Hutchinson man was taken to a Wichita hospital after an accident on the Kansas Turnpike Monday morning.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol report at 5:50 a.m. Monday, 56-year-old John Buck of Hutchinson was&nbsp;Northbound on I-35 in a 2010 Ford F-150 when it went into the ditch. Buck overcorrected punching through the wall and coming to rest in the inside median on the Southbound lanes.

Buck was taken to Wesley Medical Center with suspected serious injuries. 

Seat belt information was not provided in the report.

<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/2022/10/1665405753233.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SUMNER COUNTY — A Hutchinson man was taken to a Wichita hospital after an accident on the Kansas Turnpike Monday morning.According to the Kansas Highway Patrol report at 5:50 a.m. Monday, 56-year-old John Buck of Hutchinson was&nbsp;Northbound on I-35 in a 2010 Ford F-150 when it went into the ditch. Buck overcorrected punching through the wall and coming to rest in the inside median on the Southbound lanes.Buck was taken to Wesley Medical Center with suspected serious injuries. Seat belt information was not provided in the report.<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;

Hutch man injured in Monday morning accident

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the killers of an Abbyville native who died in the line of duty as a state trooper on the Kansas Turnpike is up for parole again just three years after a previous hearing.

Kelvin O'Brien will be using Zoom to dial in to the parole hearing for Jimmie Nelms. Nelms killed Trooper Conroy O'Brien on May 24, 1978. The killing happened during a traffic stop on the Kansas Turnpike near Matfield Green.

Kelvin O' Brien said back in 2021, "The one that's up for parole now was actually on parole at the time he killed my brother out of Oklahoma. Instead of just shooting him and going on down the Turnpike, they marched him out into the ditch, they taunted him, they pistolwhipped him to where his skull was fractured and then they shot him twice in the head."&nbsp; 

The subjects were later apprehended after a shootout with other officers. One turned state's evidence and served seven years, another died in prison in 2009, and the third man, Nelms, was sentenced to serve 45 years to life. 

The suspects were all wanted for a string of armed robberies at the time of the shooting.Trooper O'Brien had served with the Kansas Highway Patrol for four years. He was survived by his expectant wife.&nbsp;&nbsp;

O'Brien is asking for the public's help in letting the parole board know they don't want Nelms in the public. The hearing will be at the Abbyville Community Center at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

Any received&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOC_Victim_Notification@ks.gov">online letter</a>&nbsp;is sent to the victim services in Topeka and immediately printed and forwarded to the parole board. There is also a physical address as well.

All&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOC_Victim_Notification@ks.gov">letters have to be received</a>&nbsp;by March 31 or they will not count.&nbsp;

<a href="mailto:KDOC_Victim_Notification@ks.gov" target="_blank"></a>The mailing address is:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616524259181.jpeg" alt="Conroy OBrien from KHP" />
 <figcaption>Conroy OBrien from KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One of the killers of an Abbyville native who died in the line of duty as a state trooper on the Kansas Turnpike is up for parole again just three years after a previous hearing.Kelvin O'Brien will be using Zoom to dial in to the parole hearing for Jimmie Nelms. Nelms killed Trooper Conroy O'Brien on May 24, 1978. The killing happened during a traffic stop on the Kansas Turnpike near Matfield Green.Kelvin O' Brien said back in 2021, "The one that's up for parole now was actually on parole at the time he killed my brother out of Oklahoma. Instead of just shooting him and going on down the Turnpike, they marched him out into the ditch, they taunted him, they pistolwhipped him to where his skull was fractured and then they shot him twice in the head."&nbsp; The subjects were later apprehended after a shootout with other officers. One turned state's evidence and served seven years, another died in prison in 2009, and the third man, Nelms, was sentenced to serve 45 years to life. The suspects were all wanted for a string of armed robberies at the time of the shooting.Trooper O'Brien had served with the Kansas Highway Patrol for four years. He was survived by his expectant wife.&nbsp;&nbsp;O'Brien is asking for the public's help in letting the parole board know they don't want Nelms in the public. The hearing will be at the Abbyville Community Center at 9 a.m. Tuesday.Any received&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOC_Victim_Notification@ks.gov">online letter</a>&nbsp;is sent to the victim services in Topeka and immediately printed and forwarded to the parole board. There is also a physical address as well.All&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOC_Victim_Notification@ks.gov">letters have to be received</a>&nbsp;by March 31 or they will not count.&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOC_Victim_Notification@ks.gov" target="_blank"></a>The mailing address is:Office of Victim Services714 SW Jackson Suite 300<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

Parole hearing again Tuesday for trooper's killer

Correction: An earlier version of this story had the wrong location for tonight's meeting. Hutch Post regrets the error.

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Board of Education will hear a presentation on the potential of switching to a four-day school week at their meeting on Monday.

Stakeholders were encouraged to take a&nbsp;survey regarding the prospect of four-day school weeks in the district. That survey is now closed.

Parent nights for information on the concept were held March 5 and 6.&nbsp;

The survey also specifically said with regard to teacher retention, "Due to state funding, raises are not an option."

The Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Board of Education will meet at 7 p.m. Monday at South Hutchinson Elementary at 405 South Poplar in South Hutchinson.

<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/2023/3/1677893288416.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Correction: An earlier version of this story had the wrong location for tonight's meeting. Hutch Post regrets the error.SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Board of Education will hear a presentation on the potential of switching to a four-day school week at their meeting on Monday.Stakeholders were encouraged to take a&nbsp;survey regarding the prospect of four-day school weeks in the district. That survey is now closed.Parent nights for information on the concept were held March 5 and 6.&nbsp;The survey also specifically said with regard to teacher retention, "Due to state funding, raises are not an option."The Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 Board of Education will meet at 7 p.m. Monday at South Hutchinson Elementary at 405 South Poplar in South Hutchinson.<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;

CORRECTED LOCATION: USD 309 Board to hear 4-Day week presentation

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — A K-96 patching project will start soon in Reno County.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project will be on K-96 from the K-14 junction east to the Sedgwick/Reno County line. The length is about 15 miles.

The work is expected to start around April 1 and be completed around mid-August or late August.

During the work, eastbound traffic will be restricted to one lane through the work zone starting on the west side. Motorists should be prepared to slow down.

Clarkson Construction Co., of Kansas City, Mo., is the primary contractor for the $1,989,823 project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710775279259.png" alt="K-96 KDOT" />
 <figcaption>K-96 KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>TIM POTTER KDOTRENO COUNTY, Kan. — A K-96 patching project will start soon in Reno County.The Kansas Department of Transportation project will be on K-96 from the K-14 junction east to the Sedgwick/Reno County line. The length is about 15 miles.The work is expected to start around April 1 and be completed around mid-August or late August.During the work, eastbound traffic will be restricted to one lane through the work zone starting on the west side. Motorists should be prepared to slow down.Clarkson Construction Co., of Kansas City, Mo., is the primary contractor for the $1,989,823 project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

K-96 patching to start next month

SOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Work will start soon on a lighting project on U.S. 50 in Reno County.

The Kansas Department of Transportation project will be at U.S. 50 and Scott Boulevard, in South Hutchinson.

The work is expected to start around April 1 and be completed around mid-May.

During the work, there will be minimal impact on traffic.

Phillips Southern Electric Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor for the $245,849 project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710773949752.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TIM POTTER KDOTSOUTH HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Work will start soon on a lighting project on U.S. 50 in Reno County.The Kansas Department of Transportation project will be at U.S. 50 and Scott Boulevard, in South Hutchinson.The work is expected to start around April 1 and be completed around mid-May.During the work, there will be minimal impact on traffic.Phillips Southern Electric Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor for the $245,849 project.For updated information on this and other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across the state, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

U.S. 50 lighting work in Reno County to begin

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz knows that getting great Grandstand acts for the Fair is going to remain a challenge, as inflation eats up the appearance budget for the ten day event.

"Our budget is roughly about $900,000 for the ten nights of the fair, including your free stage and your roaming, as well," Schulz said.&nbsp;

As an example of a particular artist, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventresourcespresents.com/">https://www.eventresourcespresents.com/</a>, Gabriel Iglesias, who brought his comedy to the fair in 2022, has a fee between $100,000 and $200,000 for an event.&nbsp;

"When I started, we were at like, $600,000," Schulz said. "We're slowly creeping up. I can imagine us to be at that $1.5 million in the next few years, just because we know what acts are going to cost and in order to get something, that's what we're going to have to do."

The Fair has announced four acts thus far, Wynonna Judd with Kimberly Perry on Friday, Sept. 6, The Goo Goo Dolls on Saturday, Sept. 7, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band on Thursday, Sept. 12 and The Oak Ridge Boys on Sunday, Sept. 15.

For ticket information, go to <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/plan-your-visit1/entertainment2">kansasstatefair.com</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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/2021/9/1632137691150.jpeg" alt="KSF Grandstand File-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>KSF Grandstand File-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz knows that getting great Grandstand acts for the Fair is going to remain a challenge, as inflation eats up the appearance budget for the ten day event."Our budget is roughly about $900,000 for the ten nights of the fair, including your free stage and your roaming, as well," Schulz said.&nbsp;As an example of a particular artist, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventresourcespresents.com/">https://www.eventresourcespresents.com/</a>, Gabriel Iglesias, who brought his comedy to the fair in 2022, has a fee between $100,000 and $200,000 for an event.&nbsp;"When I started, we were at like, $600,000," Schulz said. "We're slowly creeping up. I can imagine us to be at that $1.5 million in the next few years, just because we know what acts are going to cost and in order to get something, that's what we're going to have to do."The Fair has announced four acts thus far, Wynonna Judd with Kimberly Perry on Friday, Sept. 6, The Goo Goo Dolls on Saturday, Sept. 7, Broadway's Rock of Ages Band on Thursday, Sept. 12 and The Oak Ridge Boys on Sunday, Sept. 15.For ticket information, go to <a href="https://www.kansasstatefair.com/p/plan-your-visit1/entertainment2">kansasstatefair.com</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

Schulz: Grandstand act budget will have to go up

TOPEKA, Kan. — A bill changing the funding source for the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center near Yoder is working its way through the legislative process.

According to the legislature's website, House Bill 2491 would shift deposits of fees previously credited to the Law Enforcement Training Center Fund (Fund) to the State General Fund (SGF). 

Currently, the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) receives revenue from a surcharge on vehicle registration, municipal court filing fees, and docket fees. The bill would remove references to the Fund and direct the State Treasurer to make these deposits to the SGF rather than the Fund.

During the House hearing on the bill, the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office provided proponent testimony on the bill, stating the KLETC provides training for law enforcement recruits and noted that use of SGF money would be more adequate than fee funding. 

A representative from KLETC provided proponent testimony addressing fee adjustments, expenditures, and revenue.

Conferees stated the KLETC has a broad reach to all law enforcement agencies in Kansas.

The full House passed the bill on Thursday, 122-0 and a hearing on the Senate side in the Ways and Means committee has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 19 at 10:30 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622151282711.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — A bill changing the funding source for the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center near Yoder is working its way through the legislative process.According to the legislature's website, House Bill 2491 would shift deposits of fees previously credited to the Law Enforcement Training Center Fund (Fund) to the State General Fund (SGF). Currently, the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) receives revenue from a surcharge on vehicle registration, municipal court filing fees, and docket fees. The bill would remove references to the Fund and direct the State Treasurer to make these deposits to the SGF rather than the Fund.During the House hearing on the bill, the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office provided proponent testimony on the bill, stating the KLETC provides training for law enforcement recruits and noted that use of SGF money would be more adequate than fee funding. A representative from KLETC provided proponent testimony addressing fee adjustments, expenditures, and revenue.Conferees stated the KLETC has a broad reach to all law enforcement agencies in Kansas.The full House passed the bill on Thursday, 122-0 and a hearing on the Senate side in the Ways and Means committee has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 19 at 10:30 a.m.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KLETC funding source could change

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel noted that now that Olsson Studios has unveiled the final version of the Downtown Master Plan, it's time to figure out what to execute first and how to do it.

"All of that data is now wrapped up into what is now out on <a href="https://www.downtownhutchmasterplan.com/">the website at&nbsp;https://www.downtownhutchmasterplan.com/</a>," Teufel said. "The real work now begins in the technical committee, in the downtown coalition, in our downtown promotions committee."

This is going to require collaboration from those that own property downtown, along with public infrastructure improvements and continued support from the Chamber and other stakeholders.

"This work is not going to be the work of one organization," Teufel said. "While the City and Downtown Hutch helped collaborate to help pay for the plan, and we had philanthropy stepping up to the table to help pay part of the cost, Laura Meyer Dick and the Nation Meyer fund helped fund part of the plan, now it is up to all of us to work together, to take the action plan and start putting it into place."

The first step outlined is to officially adopt the plan as City Policy. In order for that to happen, it needs to go before the Planning Commission and then the City Council and be approved by both of those bodies.

"How do we take all of that energy and passion in the people that care about it and put it into place to come up with our own kind of unified branding for downtown?" Teufel said.&nbsp;

Also, the recommendation is that if the Downtown Master Plan is codified as City policy, that existing regulations should be looked at and changed to match up with the intent and recommendations of the plan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696691619111.jpeg" alt="Downtown Hutch Master Plan" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Hutch Master Plan</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel noted that now that Olsson Studios has unveiled the final version of the Downtown Master Plan, it's time to figure out what to execute first and how to do it."All of that data is now wrapped up into what is now out on <a href="https://www.downtownhutchmasterplan.com/">the website at&nbsp;https://www.downtownhutchmasterplan.com/</a>," Teufel said. "The real work now begins in the technical committee, in the downtown coalition, in our downtown promotions committee."This is going to require collaboration from those that own property downtown, along with public infrastructure improvements and continued support from the Chamber and other stakeholders."This work is not going to be the work of one organization," Teufel said. "While the City and Downtown Hutch helped collaborate to help pay for the plan, and we had philanthropy stepping up to the table to help pay part of the cost, Laura Meyer Dick and the Nation Meyer fund helped fund part of the plan, now it is up to all of us to work together, to take the action plan and start putting it into place."The first step outlined is to officially adopt the plan as City Policy. In order for that to happen, it needs to go before the Planning Commission and then the City Council and be approved by both of those bodies."How do we take all of that energy and passion in the people that care about it and put it into place to come up with our own kind of unified branding for downtown?" Teufel said.&nbsp;Also, the recommendation is that if the Downtown Master Plan is codified as City policy, that existing regulations should be looked at and changed to match up with the intent and recommendations of the plan.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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;

Downtown Master Plan is beginning of 'real work'

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Chamber on Thursday announced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cdqB3_1_1cgL7zUbD-exDBJArVHartYCdIaqL4yBRm46C-ir0jM5urtJ8EBaSbwCoVx1bsaCPxNcxeNz7qPmaew2VWNtv7J_vTprYE_mybYsx0L0NSqTSHtLmWDKs4fP2C_Uz5B-A1w=&amp;c=aNwPSA5xZEnDbHCiz518BemDkWNZ7tEWKXUAMGFwqG-r00lA7iciRw==&amp;ch=Ks_fS84wWTTiaNbKW3EnCnzqmsoMoAz6Mf42ZBadBWvFUf7DYMXZRw==" target="_blank">Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company</a>&nbsp;is the Chamber’s&nbsp;2024 Ad Astra Award&nbsp;honoree.

Each year during its annual dinner, the Chamber and its members recognize a Kansas&nbsp;company&nbsp;with the&nbsp;Ad Astra Award. The award recognizes a Kansas business for its unique contributions to the economic health and welfare of the state. This honor is presented to a business that exemplifies both business and civic excellence within the state.

“For more than 142 years,&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company&nbsp;and its employees have been leaders in the&nbsp;paper&nbsp;and corrugated box industry, focused on advancing innovation in their industry and embracing the entrepreneur spirit of Kansas," said Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb. "LPC dedication to new products and new markets led to its expansion to three locations and more than 300 employees. The Kansas Chamber and its members are thrilled to recognize&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company&nbsp;and its employees for their contributions to Kansas with the&nbsp;2024 Ad Astra Award.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Justin DeWitt Bowersock established the&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company&nbsp;in 1882, making it the first&nbsp;paper&nbsp;mill constructed west of the Mississippi. The mill along the Kansas River in&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;produced wrapping&nbsp;paper&nbsp;made from straw. It was used primarily to protect whiskey bottles and cases of eggs being shipped by trains and horse-drawn wagons.

It wasn't long before LPC proved itself as an industry pioneer, developing numerous corrugated shipping products under the "Jayhawk" brand. The&nbsp;company&nbsp;also designed patented equipment to manufacture these products, and then shared the new technology to the benefit of the entire&nbsp;paper&nbsp;industry.

﻿Under the leadership of four generations of Bowersock's descendants, LPC has continued on its path of innovation and expansion, and today has operations in&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;and divisions in Hutchinson (American Packaging&nbsp;Company) and Freemont, NE (Jayhawk Boxes Inc.). It produces industrial boxes and retail displays and provides fulfillment services.

Regarding American Packaging, Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel joined in her praise of their work in the community.

"It's been a mainstay of our economy down in South Hutchinson," Teufel said. "It's been about three years ago, they embarked on a major expansion, more than doubled in size, added about 100,000 square feet. Tony Schleich and his team there just continue to do more automation in that facility. Then, of course, they have the presence in Lawrence. They are very involved in the Kansas Chamber, they are very involved in our Chamber and we're just excited that they received that honor."

Presented by NextEra Energy Resources, the&nbsp;2024 Kansas Chamber Annual Dinner&nbsp;is Monday, April 29th at the Stormont Vail Events Center in Topeka.

The dinner is one of the largest annual statewide gathering of business and political leaders in Kansas.

This year’s keynote speaker is&nbsp;former United States Attorney General William Barr.

You can learn more about the annual dinner at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cdqB3_1_1cgL7zUbD-exDBJArVHartYCdIaqL4yBRm46C-ir0jM5uvp-dLoRqXUKtJQzcnoXz6NdbunhZ-EZMHLxL-r99IMqJkUyXOzBi4Tc7kfWU29YJMCq-vZ6WU0-tsZ_OMFgnh9I18wHroXT9TVbE93n-FNj9DMAjCp0WD4=&amp;c=aNwPSA5xZEnDbHCiz518BemDkWNZ7tEWKXUAMGFwqG-r00lA7iciRw==&amp;ch=Ks_fS84wWTTiaNbKW3EnCnzqmsoMoAz6Mf42ZBadBWvFUf7DYMXZRw==" target="_blank">KansasChamber.org/AnnualDinner</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703345305565.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas ChamberTOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Chamber on Thursday announced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cdqB3_1_1cgL7zUbD-exDBJArVHartYCdIaqL4yBRm46C-ir0jM5urtJ8EBaSbwCoVx1bsaCPxNcxeNz7qPmaew2VWNtv7J_vTprYE_mybYsx0L0NSqTSHtLmWDKs4fP2C_Uz5B-A1w=&amp;c=aNwPSA5xZEnDbHCiz518BemDkWNZ7tEWKXUAMGFwqG-r00lA7iciRw==&amp;ch=Ks_fS84wWTTiaNbKW3EnCnzqmsoMoAz6Mf42ZBadBWvFUf7DYMXZRw==" target="_blank">Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company</a>&nbsp;is the Chamber’s&nbsp;2024 Ad Astra Award&nbsp;honoree.Each year during its annual dinner, the Chamber and its members recognize a Kansas&nbsp;company&nbsp;with the&nbsp;Ad Astra Award. The award recognizes a Kansas business for its unique contributions to the economic health and welfare of the state. This honor is presented to a business that exemplifies both business and civic excellence within the state.“For more than 142 years,&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company&nbsp;and its employees have been leaders in the&nbsp;paper&nbsp;and corrugated box industry, focused on advancing innovation in their industry and embracing the entrepreneur spirit of Kansas," said Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb. "LPC dedication to new products and new markets led to its expansion to three locations and more than 300 employees. The Kansas Chamber and its members are thrilled to recognize&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company&nbsp;and its employees for their contributions to Kansas with the&nbsp;2024 Ad Astra Award.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Justin DeWitt Bowersock established the&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;Paper&nbsp;Company&nbsp;in 1882, making it the first&nbsp;paper&nbsp;mill constructed west of the Mississippi. The mill along the Kansas River in&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;produced wrapping&nbsp;paper&nbsp;made from straw. It was used primarily to protect whiskey bottles and cases of eggs being shipped by trains and horse-drawn wagons.It wasn't long before LPC proved itself as an industry pioneer, developing numerous corrugated shipping products under the "Jayhawk" brand. The&nbsp;company&nbsp;also designed patented equipment to manufacture these products, and then shared the new technology to the benefit of the entire&nbsp;paper&nbsp;industry.﻿Under the leadership of four generations of Bowersock's descendants, LPC has continued on its path of innovation and expansion, and today has operations in&nbsp;Lawrence&nbsp;and divisions in Hutchinson (American Packaging&nbsp;Company) and Freemont, NE (Jayhawk Boxes Inc.). It produces industrial boxes and retail displays and provides fulfillment services.Regarding American Packaging, Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce CEO Debra Teufel joined in her praise of their work in the community."It's been a mainstay of our economy down in South Hutchinson," Teufel said. "It's been about three years ago, they embarked on a major expansion, more than doubled in size, added about 100,000 square feet. Tony Schleich and his team there just continue to do more automation in that facility. Then, of course, they have the presence in Lawrence. They are very involved in the Kansas Chamber, they are very involved in our Chamber and we're just excited that they received that honor."Presented by NextEra Energy Resources, the&nbsp;2024 Kansas Chamber Annual Dinner&nbsp;is Monday, April 29th at the Stormont Vail Events Center in Topeka.The dinner is one of the largest annual statewide gathering of business and political leaders in Kansas.This year’s keynote speaker is&nbsp;former United States Attorney General William Barr.You can learn more about the annual dinner at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001cdqB3_1_1cgL7zUbD-exDBJArVHartYCdIaqL4yBRm46C-ir0jM5uvp-dLoRqXUKtJQzcnoXz6NdbunhZ-EZMHLxL-r99IMqJkUyXOzBi4Tc7kfWU29YJMCq-vZ6WU0-tsZ_OMFgnh9I18wHroXT9TVbE93n-FNj9DMAjCp0WD4=&amp;c=aNwPSA5xZEnDbHCiz518BemDkWNZ7tEWKXUAMGFwqG-r00lA7iciRw==&amp;ch=Ks_fS84wWTTiaNbKW3EnCnzqmsoMoAz6Mf42ZBadBWvFUf7DYMXZRw==" target="_blank">KansasChamber.org/AnnualDinner</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;

Company with large Reno County plant is Kansas Chamber honoree

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;

3/18/2024 1:44 AM-Douglas		Ryan	Clinton Keough-Failure to Appear

3/17/2024 3:50 PM-Clifford	Paul Pearson Jr.-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

3/17/2024 2:28 PM-Rider	Jason Morse-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;

3/17/2024 2:17 PM-Faith	Elisabeth Kathryn Jarrett-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct

3/17/2024 9:05 AM-Lamar	Lee Williams Jr.-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

3/17/2024 6:22 AM-Guadalupe Pineda-DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.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;3/18/2024 1:44 AM-Douglas		Ryan	Clinton Keough-Failure to Appear3/17/2024 3:50 PM-Clifford	Paul Pearson Jr.-Failure to Appear&nbsp;3/17/2024 2:28 PM-Rider	Jason Morse-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)&nbsp;3/17/2024 2:17 PM-Faith	Elisabeth Kathryn Jarrett-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct3/17/2024 9:05 AM-Lamar	Lee Williams Jr.-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body3/17/2024 6:22 AM-Guadalupe Pineda-DUI; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department was kept busy with grass fire calls over the weekend.

On Saturday, Batallion 1 and Brush 71 were requested to western Reno County on a task force deployment to help with a large out of control fire.&nbsp;

Saturday evening, Hutchinson firefighters responded to East 43rd for a controlled burn that got out of hand and burnt into some trees. On Sunday, crews were called out to East 43rd again for a controlled burn that flared up from Saturday.

Hutchinson Fire would like to remind the public that we are not out of fire season yet. There is still a need for more moisture. Please monitor controlled burns for several days after completion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710710784338.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Hutchinson Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson Fire DepartmentHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department was kept busy with grass fire calls over the weekend.On Saturday, Batallion 1 and Brush 71 were requested to western Reno County on a task force deployment to help with a large out of control fire.&nbsp;Saturday evening, Hutchinson firefighters responded to East 43rd for a controlled burn that got out of hand and burnt into some trees. On Sunday, crews were called out to East 43rd again for a controlled burn that flared up from Saturday.Hutchinson Fire would like to remind the public that we are not out of fire season yet. There is still a need for more moisture. Please monitor controlled burns for several days after completion.<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;

Local