HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 Board of Education is holding a special meeting Wednesday afternoon to interview Construction Manager at Risk candidates. That concept has become popular among school districts looking to know how to budget.

"It's been around for a while," Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman said. "It's just lately, it's become a really popular way of doing construction. That is, you hire a construction manager. They sort of guarantee the project to be done at a maximum price. After they get all the drawings and stuff, they give you a set price, guaranteed not to go over it. There's some advantages to using the Construction Manager at Risk right now."

The board will be interviewing three candidate firms.

"That is in closed session," Couchman said. "The interviews cannot happen in public session. You'll see a lot of executive sessions in there, where we go into executive session, interview them, come out, go into another executive session, interview the next company."

Couchman doesn't believe the district can go wrong, whatever the board's choice may be.

"All three of them have a fantastic reputation," Couchman said. "We're looking at similar projects. We're looking at how well we all just sort of get along in the interview, too. You have a very close relationship while all these projects are going on with each other. Also, how soon they can get to work with us. This is a busy time for construction companies. We are kind of on a timeline."

Particularly when it comes to the remodeling of the Masonic Lodge building for the purposes of the Ad Astra Academies, the sooner that work can get done, the better for the overall growth of that program.

<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/2020/3/1584543839140.jpeg" alt="Buhler USD 313" />
 <figcaption>Buhler USD 313</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Buhler USD 313 Board of Education is holding a special meeting Wednesday afternoon to interview Construction Manager at Risk candidates. That concept has become popular among school districts looking to know how to budget."It's been around for a while," Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman said. "It's just lately, it's become a really popular way of doing construction. That is, you hire a construction manager. They sort of guarantee the project to be done at a maximum price. After they get all the drawings and stuff, they give you a set price, guaranteed not to go over it. There's some advantages to using the Construction Manager at Risk right now."The board will be interviewing three candidate firms."That is in closed session," Couchman said. "The interviews cannot happen in public session. You'll see a lot of executive sessions in there, where we go into executive session, interview them, come out, go into another executive session, interview the next company."Couchman doesn't believe the district can go wrong, whatever the board's choice may be."All three of them have a fantastic reputation," Couchman said. "We're looking at similar projects. We're looking at how well we all just sort of get along in the interview, too. You have a very close relationship while all these projects are going on with each other. Also, how soon they can get to work with us. This is a busy time for construction companies. We are kind of on a timeline."Particularly when it comes to the remodeling of the Masonic Lodge building for the purposes of the Ad Astra Academies, the sooner that work can get done, the better for the overall growth of that program.<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;

Buhler school board seeking construction manager

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson went over its agreement for 2024 with the International Association of Fire Fighters on Tuesday.

"Formal negotiations with the IAFF started this year back on February 23," said HR Director Tom Sanders. "After six meetings, we were able to reach a tentative agreement with them on August 2. Most of our negotiations revolved around economic issues. We've experienced a very big acceleration in terms of wage growth in the firefighter world. In this region of Kansas, it's been particularly acute."

The union and the city agreed to work on getting a job description back they haven't had for a while.

"HFD leadership, you might recall from last year, was looking to reimplement the fire engineer job class. We haven't had it since about 2018 or 2019. Chief Beer really felt like that was important for the operations of his group and the safety of the personnel and public safety. We needed to work through the economic effects of adding that new job class in there, which we were successfully able to do."

The additional job description did have an effect on the overall package.

"Movement of the firefighter wage scales up by 4.5% next year, we reduced the top end by 10.4%," Sanders said. "That's a direct result of having that fire engineer job class being added going into the middle. Then, the fire captains had the most dramatic increases from 2023. That will go up 15.9% and the top end will increase 4.5%, bringing the bottom end up quite a bit for the fire captains."

Wage compression is an issue for firefighters, as well.

"We were able to work through with the IAFF a methodology to still reflect performance differences and those kinds of things, but provide appropriate spacing between employees."

The merit pay matrix is up 4.25% for firefighters in 2024, but they also allowed for the formalizing of a policy they hope to aid in retention of new firefighters.

"It costs a lot to outfit a new firefighter with all the PPE," Sanders said. "It's customized gear and all that stuff. We spend at least a couple thousand dollars to do that. One of the things that's been in place at the fire department for, I think two years now, is they have a repayment agreement that if the employee leaves within three years, they pay all or a portion of that cost back to us. That's been happening on a more informal basis. We wanted to put that in the contract, just so we have clear rules of understanding on that."

The hope is that these provisions will allow for the department to continue to attract and retain solid candidates in the coming years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694008615703.jpeg" alt="IAFF Logo" />
 <figcaption>IAFF Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson went over its agreement for 2024 with the International Association of Fire Fighters on Tuesday."Formal negotiations with the IAFF started this year back on February 23," said HR Director Tom Sanders. "After six meetings, we were able to reach a tentative agreement with them on August 2. Most of our negotiations revolved around economic issues. We've experienced a very big acceleration in terms of wage growth in the firefighter world. In this region of Kansas, it's been particularly acute."The union and the city agreed to work on getting a job description back they haven't had for a while."HFD leadership, you might recall from last year, was looking to reimplement the fire engineer job class. We haven't had it since about 2018 or 2019. Chief Beer really felt like that was important for the operations of his group and the safety of the personnel and public safety. We needed to work through the economic effects of adding that new job class in there, which we were successfully able to do."The additional job description did have an effect on the overall package."Movement of the firefighter wage scales up by 4.5% next year, we reduced the top end by 10.4%," Sanders said. "That's a direct result of having that fire engineer job class being added going into the middle. Then, the fire captains had the most dramatic increases from 2023. That will go up 15.9% and the top end will increase 4.5%, bringing the bottom end up quite a bit for the fire captains."Wage compression is an issue for firefighters, as well."We were able to work through with the IAFF a methodology to still reflect performance differences and those kinds of things, but provide appropriate spacing between employees."The merit pay matrix is up 4.25% for firefighters in 2024, but they also allowed for the formalizing of a policy they hope to aid in retention of new firefighters."It costs a lot to outfit a new firefighter with all the PPE," Sanders said. "It's customized gear and all that stuff. We spend at least a couple thousand dollars to do that. One of the things that's been in place at the fire department for, I think two years now, is they have a repayment agreement that if the employee leaves within three years, they pay all or a portion of that cost back to us. That's been happening on a more informal basis. We wanted to put that in the contract, just so we have clear rules of understanding on that."The hope is that these provisions will allow for the department to continue to attract and retain solid candidates in the coming years.<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 outlines agreement with firefighters

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson went over its agreement for 2024 with the Fraternal Order of Police at the City Council meeting on Tuesday.

"We started negotiations back on February 23," said HR Director Tom Sanders. "We had six formal session to meet and confer. On July 1, we were able to come to agreement. With the national shortage of police officers, it's been a challenging few years, in terms of putting together adequate compensation packages to attract and retain officers. This year, I think we've done a really, really good job of coming up with a good package that both sides feel really good about and also keep up with where we're at in the market today and where it's projected to go next year."

"We are moving the officer scale up next year by 7.7%," Sanders said. "The top of the scale's going to move up by 10.6%. The police sergeant scale is not moving as much. It's going up 2% and the top end is going up 3.6%. There's new language that codifies management's discretion to design, alter or eliminate hiring or milestone bonuses and also to make them contingent upon a formal repayment agreement, so if an employee leaves within a certain amount of time, we could recoup some of that cost."

Another issue when new officers come in at much higher rates is wage compression, where those who have served longer are not making as much more, comparatively.

"We came up with a plan, working with the FOP, that I think addresses that in a fair and adequate way," Sanders said. "The factors that we're looking at were time in job, of course and then differences in past performance. We didn't want to wipe out those differences that employees had that were performing really well, versus those that were successful, but just not quite as high and then also recognizing prior law enforcement experience."

This agreement is already at work to help keep police in Hutchinson.

"We had requested through the city manager that we be able to implement these changes for the FOP group as soon as the FOP approved the contract, which they did right away," Sanders said. "We were able to get those implemented on July 30. I think that will really help us with current retention and recruitment."

The merit pay matrix for next year is adjusted to a 4.25% overall budget, which is up from 3.5% this year," Sanders said. "The variable pay programs under Article 17, we negotiated new language with the union to allow for SRO officers to be eligible for designated unit pay, during those periods of time when they are working the full duties of a detective, and also for an extended period of time like Christmas break, summer breaks, things like that."

Sanders said that this is an aggressive package, but it is one that is necessary and needed to stay competitive with other jurisdictions.

<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/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson went over its agreement for 2024 with the Fraternal Order of Police at the City Council meeting on Tuesday."We started negotiations back on February 23," said HR Director Tom Sanders. "We had six formal session to meet and confer. On July 1, we were able to come to agreement. With the national shortage of police officers, it's been a challenging few years, in terms of putting together adequate compensation packages to attract and retain officers. This year, I think we've done a really, really good job of coming up with a good package that both sides feel really good about and also keep up with where we're at in the market today and where it's projected to go next year."The raises for officers are significant."We are moving the officer scale up next year by 7.7%," Sanders said. "The top of the scale's going to move up by 10.6%. The police sergeant scale is not moving as much. It's going up 2% and the top end is going up 3.6%. There's new language that codifies management's discretion to design, alter or eliminate hiring or milestone bonuses and also to make them contingent upon a formal repayment agreement, so if an employee leaves within a certain amount of time, we could recoup some of that cost."Another issue when new officers come in at much higher rates is wage compression, where those who have served longer are not making as much more, comparatively."We came up with a plan, working with the FOP, that I think addresses that in a fair and adequate way," Sanders said. "The factors that we're looking at were time in job, of course and then differences in past performance. We didn't want to wipe out those differences that employees had that were performing really well, versus those that were successful, but just not quite as high and then also recognizing prior law enforcement experience."This agreement is already at work to help keep police in Hutchinson."We had requested through the city manager that we be able to implement these changes for the FOP group as soon as the FOP approved the contract, which they did right away," Sanders said. "We were able to get those implemented on July 30. I think that will really help us with current retention and recruitment."Also, merit pay raises are increasing.The merit pay matrix for next year is adjusted to a 4.25% overall budget, which is up from 3.5% this year," Sanders said. "The variable pay programs under Article 17, we negotiated new language with the union to allow for SRO officers to be eligible for designated unit pay, during those periods of time when they are working the full duties of a detective, and also for an extended period of time like Christmas break, summer breaks, things like that."Sanders said that this is an aggressive package, but it is one that is necessary and needed to stay competitive with other jurisdictions.<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;

City outlines agreement with police union

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bretz Injury Law is presenting the 4th Annual Reno County Veterans’ Memorial Poker Run happening in Hutchinson, KS on Saturday, September 9th.

"If you want to participate in the poker run, you will want to show up at Salty Cycles at 129 East Sherman at about 9:30 a.m.," said Casey Ensz with Bretz Injury Law. "The registration will start at 9:30 a.m., kickstands up about 10:30 a.m. Then, you'd ride the poker run route until you get back to Bretz Injury Law. We'll have some food there ready to go. We'll have some door prizes. We'll have some raffle prizes. Obviously, we'll give out the prizes for the poker run itself."

Poker run stops include Sterling City Park, Shane Love Insurance Agency in Arlington, Shep Chevrolet in Haven, the Reno County Veterans’ Memorial in South Hutchinson, and Bretz Injury Law in Hutchinson. The entry fee is $25/hand and $10 for each additional hand with donations also being accepted. All vehicles are welcome to participate.

"We've been really fortunate to be the beneficiaries of the poker run from Bretz Injury Law," said Kelly Danyluk with the&nbsp;Reno County Veterans’ Memorial. "Not only that, but they've helped us clear back in the beginning. I think they sponsored a guitar at one of our benefits that we held at the Cosmosphere. That was clear back in 2013 or 2014. They've just been supporters of ours for a long time."

Prizes will be awarded to the winning hand, the second best hand, and the worst hand. The winning hand will recieve 25%, the second best hand will receive 15%, and the worst hand will receive 10%. The remaining 50% will be donated to the Reno County Veterans’ Memorial. Door prizes and a meal will be provided following the run. Raffles will be held at the last stop, Bretz Injury Law, with proceeds benefitting the Veterans’ Memorial.

"Pick up a card at each stop and then at the end there's a skill game," Ensz said. "The skill game that we have is you throw a dart at a board that has all the cards on it, to try to get the card that you need to make the best hand."&nbsp; 

For more information,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/299405425975340">visit their event on Facebook</a>&nbsp;or call 620-662-3435.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693939279839.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Bretz Injury Law is presenting the 4th Annual Reno County Veterans’ Memorial Poker Run happening in Hutchinson, KS on Saturday, September 9th."If you want to participate in the poker run, you will want to show up at Salty Cycles at 129 East Sherman at about 9:30 a.m.," said Casey Ensz with Bretz Injury Law. "The registration will start at 9:30 a.m., kickstands up about 10:30 a.m. Then, you'd ride the poker run route until you get back to Bretz Injury Law. We'll have some food there ready to go. We'll have some door prizes. We'll have some raffle prizes. Obviously, we'll give out the prizes for the poker run itself."Poker run stops include Sterling City Park, Shane Love Insurance Agency in Arlington, Shep Chevrolet in Haven, the Reno County Veterans’ Memorial in South Hutchinson, and Bretz Injury Law in Hutchinson. The entry fee is $25/hand and $10 for each additional hand with donations also being accepted. All vehicles are welcome to participate."We've been really fortunate to be the beneficiaries of the poker run from Bretz Injury Law," said Kelly Danyluk with the&nbsp;Reno County Veterans’ Memorial. "Not only that, but they've helped us clear back in the beginning. I think they sponsored a guitar at one of our benefits that we held at the Cosmosphere. That was clear back in 2013 or 2014. They've just been supporters of ours for a long time."Prizes will be awarded to the winning hand, the second best hand, and the worst hand. The winning hand will recieve 25%, the second best hand will receive 15%, and the worst hand will receive 10%. The remaining 50% will be donated to the Reno County Veterans’ Memorial. Door prizes and a meal will be provided following the run. Raffles will be held at the last stop, Bretz Injury Law, with proceeds benefitting the Veterans’ Memorial."Pick up a card at each stop and then at the end there's a skill game," Ensz said. "The skill game that we have is you throw a dart at a board that has all the cards on it, to try to get the card that you need to make the best hand."&nbsp; For more information,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/299405425975340">visit their event on Facebook</a>&nbsp;or call 620-662-3435.&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;

Poker run coming up Saturday to benefit Veterans Memorial

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Feel the squish of the grapes in the time-honored tradition of grape stomping as you help celebrate the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host the 17th annual Kansas Grape Stomp on Saturday, September 9, at 1:00 p.m. in Gottschalk Park at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson.

Gather around the grape tubs to watch state and local leaders and others stomp grapes to salute the Kansas grape and farm winery industries. The competitive stomp-off will lead the event and an open stomp for all Kansas State Fair attendees will follow.

As of August 2023, there are 50 farm wineries throughout Kansas.

KDA is committed to advocating for and promoting the agriculture industry, the state’s largest industry, employer and economic contributor, and encourages all fairgoers to attend the grape stomp to have fun while learning about the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas.

<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/2023/9/1693995577431.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Fair Grape Stomp 2022-Photo Courtesy Kansas Department of Agriculture" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Fair Grape Stomp 2022-Photo Courtesy Kansas Department of Agriculture</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of AgricultureHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Feel the squish of the grapes in the time-honored tradition of grape stomping as you help celebrate the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host the 17th annual Kansas Grape Stomp on Saturday, September 9, at 1:00 p.m. in Gottschalk Park at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson.Gather around the grape tubs to watch state and local leaders and others stomp grapes to salute the Kansas grape and farm winery industries. The competitive stomp-off will lead the event and an open stomp for all Kansas State Fair attendees will follow.As of August 2023, there are 50 farm wineries throughout Kansas.KDA is committed to advocating for and promoting the agriculture industry, the state’s largest industry, employer and economic contributor, and encourages all fairgoers to attend the grape stomp to have fun while learning about the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas.<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;

17th Annual Kansas Grape Stomp at the Kansas State Fair Saturday

MCPHERSON, Kan. — The 9th Judicial District CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) are interested in having a Citizen Review Board (CRB) in McPherson. 

A CRB is composed of trained community volunteers who serve as advisors to the judge on selected cases concerning children who are in out-of-home placements. 

Simply stated, the purpose of a CRB's case review is to assure that children do not linger unnecessarily in foster care and to promote a permanent and safe home for each child reviewed. 

For more information about becoming a CRB volunteer, contact Bill Reynolds at 316-284-6913.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693941063022.jpeg" alt="CASA Logo 9th District" />
 <figcaption>CASA Logo 9th District</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — The 9th Judicial District CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) are interested in having a Citizen Review Board (CRB) in McPherson. A CRB is composed of trained community volunteers who serve as advisors to the judge on selected cases concerning children who are in out-of-home placements. Simply stated, the purpose of a CRB's case review is to assure that children do not linger unnecessarily in foster care and to promote a permanent and safe home for each child reviewed. For more information about becoming a CRB volunteer, contact Bill Reynolds at 316-284-6913.<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;

CASA looking for McPherson volunteers

Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher

Late summer on our central Kansas farm has consisted of keeping our crops irrigated, checking cattle, working ground and the start of fall harvest.Since the kids are back in school, my main focus has been monopolizing large tracks of uninterrupted time during the day working in our office while my husband is out and about checking fields, switching water gates and running equipment.

In the mornings, my husband usually heads out in the side-by-side to check irrigation and switch water gates while I get the kids ready for school. During the summer mornings, he’d usually have one of the kids with him helping and keeping him company. Since school has started, my husband’s main helper is now our farm dog, Rosie.

Rosie has a constant known presence on our farm. Whether she’s barking at mysterious creatures in the night, welcoming visitors to our home with dirty pawprints, dumping out trashcans or harassing the barn cats, we can’t help but love that dog. Rosie is truly a gem of a farm dog and definitely takes all of her jobs very seriously.

When she was a puppy, we wired a plastic egg crate onto the front of the four-wheeler that she’d ride in while checking irrigation.

She would trot with pride behind her humans and remind us that she was ready to go to work as we’d pick her up and place her in her little crate. With her two little paws propped up on the edge of her box, you’d see her nose pointed high sniffing the air and her ears blowing in the wind as my husband would zoom down irrigation roads.

When she no longer fit in her crate, she’d ride behind the driver. Something she still does to this day.

Rosie is a staple in the farm truck when my husband or I are driving. Wherever we go, Rosie generally goes as well. She’s claimed the front passenger seat as her own and will begrudgingly make allowances for others to sit in her seat by scooting over to the middle and sitting right next to the driver only if the passenger will give her scratches behind her ears.

When we take the side-by-side out to check cattle, Rosie will only allow a passenger her seat if she can still either prop her front paws up onto the dashboard to get a full view of what’s ahead of her or if she can lay underneath the passenger’s legs and stick her head out the side of the UTV.

Rosie also rides in combines and tractors for hours with one of her humans. One might see her on the lookout for wildlife to bark at while properly sitting at attention in the buddy seat as the tractor makes a turn at the edge of the field.&nbsp;

While sitting in the buddy seat, she’s also been known to place her paw on my husband’s leg while he drives a combine for hours keeping him company. When she needs a break, she’ll just jump down to the floor and take a nap while enjoying the cold air coming from the vent.&nbsp;She’s entertainment, protection, motivation and a companion all balled up into one large ball of fur.

From checking the irrigation in the mornings to harvesting fall crops late into the night, our Rosie is living her best dog life this fall on the farm.

"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.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancherLate summer on our central Kansas farm has consisted of keeping our crops irrigated, checking cattle, working ground and the start of fall harvest.Since the kids are back in school, my main focus has been monopolizing large tracks of uninterrupted time during the day working in our office while my husband is out and about checking fields, switching water gates and running equipment.In the mornings, my husband usually heads out in the side-by-side to check irrigation and switch water gates while I get the kids ready for school. During the summer mornings, he’d usually have one of the kids with him helping and keeping him company. Since school has started, my husband’s main helper is now our farm dog, Rosie.Rosie has a constant known presence on our farm. Whether she’s barking at mysterious creatures in the night, welcoming visitors to our home with dirty pawprints, dumping out trashcans or harassing the barn cats, we can’t help but love that dog. Rosie is truly a gem of a farm dog and definitely takes all of her jobs very seriously.When she was a puppy, we wired a plastic egg crate onto the front of the four-wheeler that she’d ride in while checking irrigation.She would trot with pride behind her humans and remind us that she was ready to go to work as we’d pick her up and place her in her little crate. With her two little paws propped up on the edge of her box, you’d see her nose pointed high sniffing the air and her ears blowing in the wind as my husband would zoom down irrigation roads.When she no longer fit in her crate, she’d ride behind the driver. Something she still does to this day.Rosie is a staple in the farm truck when my husband or I are driving. Wherever we go, Rosie generally goes as well. She’s claimed the front passenger seat as her own and will begrudgingly make allowances for others to sit in her seat by scooting over to the middle and sitting right next to the driver only if the passenger will give her scratches behind her ears.When we take the side-by-side out to check cattle, Rosie will only allow a passenger her seat if she can still either prop her front paws up onto the dashboard to get a full view of what’s ahead of her or if she can lay underneath the passenger’s legs and stick her head out the side of the UTV.Rosie also rides in combines and tractors for hours with one of her humans. One might see her on the lookout for wildlife to bark at while properly sitting at attention in the buddy seat as the tractor makes a turn at the edge of the field.&nbsp;While sitting in the buddy seat, she’s also been known to place her paw on my husband’s leg while he drives a combine for hours keeping him company. When she needs a break, she’ll just jump down to the floor and take a nap while enjoying the cold air coming from the vent.&nbsp;She’s entertainment, protection, motivation and a companion all balled up into one large ball of fur.From checking the irrigation in the mornings to harvesting fall crops late into the night, our Rosie is living her best dog life this fall on the farm."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.&nbsp;Copyright © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: A farm dog's life

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;

9/6/2023 3:13 AM-Gina	Elisabeth McCaslin-DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher

9/5/2023 10:51 PM-Dale	Ray Robinson-Burglary; Unknown Circumstance; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000&nbsp;

9/5/2023 3:42 PM-Eric	Michael Wise-Probation Violation&nbsp;

9/5/2023 3:18 PM-Caden	Scott Engstrom-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; DL Violation; No Drivers License

9/5/2023 3:05 PM-Heather	Lynette Freeman-Probation Violation

9/5/2023 1:56 PM-Xander	Bryan Dutcher-Failure to Appear

9/5/2023 11:39 AM-Felipe	Augustine Deleon-Murder in 1st degree; Intentional/premeditated; Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm; Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500

9/5/2023 10:19 AM-Billy	Joe Greene-In Transit From-To Other Agency

9/5/2023 10:13 AM-Kirsten	Janette Crone-Failure to Appear

<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;&nbsp;9/6/2023 3:13 AM-Gina	Elisabeth McCaslin-DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher9/5/2023 10:51 PM-Dale	Ray Robinson-Burglary; Unknown Circumstance; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000&nbsp;9/5/2023 3:42 PM-Eric	Michael Wise-Probation Violation&nbsp;9/5/2023 3:18 PM-Caden	Scott Engstrom-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; DL Violation; No Drivers License9/5/2023 3:05 PM-Heather	Lynette Freeman-Probation Violation9/5/2023 1:56 PM-Xander	Bryan Dutcher-Failure to Appear9/5/2023 11:39 AM-Felipe	Augustine Deleon-Murder in 1st degree; Intentional/premeditated; Agg battery; Knowingly cause great body harm; Battery; Phys contact rude/insult/angry manner; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,5009/5/2023 10:19 AM-Billy	Joe Greene-In Transit From-To Other Agency9/5/2023 10:13 AM-Kirsten	Janette Crone-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

Clarification: Hutchinson Police amended this release twice. The second change included the full name of the person arrested.

Hutchinson police made an arrest for attempted murder after a victim was found stabbed Tuesday.

According to a release from Hutchinson Police, officers responded Tuesday morning to the area of 16th and Plum for the report of a stabbing.&nbsp;

When officers arrived on scene, they found one victim with multiple stab wounds. The victim was transported by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and later to St. Francis in Wichita for their injuries. The victim is currently in stable condition.

The investigation revealed there was an argument between the victim and Felipe Augustine Deleon, which ended with him stabbing the victim multiple times. It was also revealed the victim was battered by the same man the night prior. Felipe Augustine Deleon was initially placed under arrest for the charges of 1) Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, 2) Aggravated Battery, and 3) Battery. He is currently in custody at the Reno County Correctional Facility.

After further investigation, police revealed that they upgraded the initial Attempted 2nd Degree Murder charge to Attempted 1st Degree Murder and added a charge of Theft.

Felipe Augustine Deleon is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case is still under investigation. The victim’s identity is not being released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566940016883.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clarification: Hutchinson Police amended this release twice. The second change included the full name of the person arrested.Hutchinson Police DepartmentHutchinson police made an arrest for attempted murder after a victim was found stabbed Tuesday.According to a release from Hutchinson Police, officers responded Tuesday morning to the area of 16th and Plum for the report of a stabbing.&nbsp;When officers arrived on scene, they found one victim with multiple stab wounds. The victim was transported by EMS to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and later to St. Francis in Wichita for their injuries. The victim is currently in stable condition.The investigation revealed there was an argument between the victim and Felipe Augustine Deleon, which ended with him stabbing the victim multiple times. It was also revealed the victim was battered by the same man the night prior. Felipe Augustine Deleon was initially placed under arrest for the charges of 1) Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, 2) Aggravated Battery, and 3) Battery. He is currently in custody at the Reno County Correctional Facility.After further investigation, police revealed that they upgraded the initial Attempted 2nd Degree Murder charge to Attempted 1st Degree Murder and added a charge of Theft.Felipe Augustine Deleon is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case is still under investigation. The victim’s identity is not being released at this time.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutchinson police make arrest in stabbing Tuesday

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Office investigated the report of an unidentified male shooting a weapon into the air, out of the back of a pickup in the county after school on Tuesday afternoon. 

A Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 route bus was in the general vicinity and several students and the driver saw this take place. The bus was not near the person, none of the shots were at the bus, and no one was injured. 

It was later determined it was dove hunters shooting at birds. The sheriff’s office asks hunters to abide by all Wildlife and Parks regulations. Unless the hunter has a disability permit, according to those regulations, it is unlawful to shoot at game from a vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583185956572.jpeg" alt="Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Sheriff's Office Badge</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff's Office investigated the report of an unidentified male shooting a weapon into the air, out of the back of a pickup in the county after school on Tuesday afternoon. A Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 route bus was in the general vicinity and several students and the driver saw this take place. The bus was not near the person, none of the shots were at the bus, and no one was injured. It was later determined it was dove hunters shooting at birds. The sheriff’s office asks hunters to abide by all Wildlife and Parks regulations. Unless the hunter has a disability permit, according to those regulations, it is unlawful to shoot at game from a vehicle.<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;

Sheriff's office investigates misunderstanding with USD 309 bus

Michael Murphy, Representative for Kansas 114th district, filed to run for the 34th Senate district currently held by Senator Mark Steffen. Senator Steffen informed Rep. Murphy several weeks ago he did not intend to run for reelection. After prayer and consideration, the decision was made to file.

Rep. Murphy is currently serving his second term in the Kansas House. During his tenure he has served on Water, Education, Agriculture and Legislative Modernization committees.

“While passing good legislation is important, stopping bad legislation is perhaps even more important. Our Declaration and Constitution remind us that government is instituted to secure rights, not give or establish or infringe on these rights,” Murphy says. “I have tried to do my job in Topeka with this in mind. Our district deserves solid Christian conservative representation in Topeka. I have delivered that as a representative and will in the senate.”

During the 2021 term, Rep. Murphy introduced a bill to help assure high school students could not only take technical courses, but leave high school with a certificate. That ended as a pilot program, but in 2022 he made sure to get the full bill across the finish line. It became law July 1st. Also in 2021, Rep. Murphy took the lead with a consumer protection bill relating to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria being forced on Kansans. 2021 was a year to inform, and in 2022 the legislature did pass a portion of the bill which protects all state deposits and KPERS.

Rep Murphy says, “I answer to God, my wife, our constitutions and my constituents, not to special interests.”

<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/2023/9/1693936804984.jpeg" alt="RepMichaelMurphy" />
 <figcaption>RepMichaelMurphy</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Murphy Campaign ReleaseMichael Murphy, Representative for Kansas 114th district, filed to run for the 34th Senate district currently held by Senator Mark Steffen. Senator Steffen informed Rep. Murphy several weeks ago he did not intend to run for reelection. After prayer and consideration, the decision was made to file.Rep. Murphy is currently serving his second term in the Kansas House. During his tenure he has served on Water, Education, Agriculture and Legislative Modernization committees.“While passing good legislation is important, stopping bad legislation is perhaps even more important. Our Declaration and Constitution remind us that government is instituted to secure rights, not give or establish or infringe on these rights,” Murphy says. “I have tried to do my job in Topeka with this in mind. Our district deserves solid Christian conservative representation in Topeka. I have delivered that as a representative and will in the senate.”During the 2021 term, Rep. Murphy introduced a bill to help assure high school students could not only take technical courses, but leave high school with a certificate. That ended as a pilot program, but in 2022 he made sure to get the full bill across the finish line. It became law July 1st. Also in 2021, Rep. Murphy took the lead with a consumer protection bill relating to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria being forced on Kansans. 2021 was a year to inform, and in 2022 the legislature did pass a portion of the bill which protects all state deposits and KPERS.Rep Murphy says, “I answer to God, my wife, our constitutions and my constituents, not to special interests.”<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;

Murphy files for Kansas Senate District 34

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson will be collecting more actual dollars in taxes for its 2024 budget than it did in 2023. Exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate was approved by the City Council on July 18. 

The Hutchinson City Council approved the budget at the council meeting on Tuesday.

In 2023, the mill levy was 41.555. The official budget is at 40.326 and the Revenue Neutral Rate is 39.104.

That is the ceiling for the city's budget. They can always spend less and do so almost every year, but they can't spend more than what they said in their budget publication from mill levy dollars.

The City budget also includes the Hutchinson Recreation Commission (HRC) budget with a proposed 2024 mill levy rate of 3.613, which exceeds their revenue neutral rate.The HRC has held their required public hearings.

The council has left the potential for the first year of a two year turf project at Hobart-Detter and Fun Valley in the budget without deciding one way or the other on whether they will go forward, as they have not heard back yet on cost share from USD 308. The city also left their allocation to the chamber the same for now and decided not to fund HEELO Inc's request for Juneteenth.

On the state form, any projected 2024 ending cash balances are included in the expenditures to allow budget authority to spend the balance. This helps prevent budget amendments in the case of unexpected expenditures.

The city's 2024 budget authority including recreation is $ 108,790,336 on taxes levied of $15,898,861.

The budget was approved unanimously by the four council members in attendance. Stuart Conklin was not present on Tuesday.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson will be collecting more actual dollars in taxes for its 2024 budget than it did in 2023. Exceeding the Revenue Neutral Rate was approved by the City Council on July 18. The Hutchinson City Council approved the budget at the council meeting on Tuesday.In 2023, the mill levy was 41.555. The official budget is at 40.326 and the Revenue Neutral Rate is 39.104.That is the ceiling for the city's budget. They can always spend less and do so almost every year, but they can't spend more than what they said in their budget publication from mill levy dollars.The City budget also includes the Hutchinson Recreation Commission (HRC) budget with a proposed 2024 mill levy rate of 3.613, which exceeds their revenue neutral rate.The HRC has held their required public hearings.The council has left the potential for the first year of a two year turf project at Hobart-Detter and Fun Valley in the budget without deciding one way or the other on whether they will go forward, as they have not heard back yet on cost share from USD 308. The city also left their allocation to the chamber the same for now and decided not to fund HEELO Inc's request for Juneteenth.On the state form, any projected 2024 ending cash balances are included in the expenditures to allow budget authority to spend the balance. This helps prevent budget amendments in the case of unexpected expenditures.The city's 2024 budget authority including recreation is $ 108,790,336 on taxes levied of $15,898,861.The budget was approved unanimously by the four council members in attendance. Stuart Conklin was not present on Tuesday.<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.

Council approves 2024 budget

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 and the Hutchinson Police Department work together to make sure that schools are secure and safe places for students to learn.

"Being inside the school and connecting with all the students that are in the school, it's a big thing that they do," said Hutchinson Police Chief Brice Burlie. "The second thing is providing security for the school. Being inside the school, they are able to quickly respond to any situations that might happen inside the school and also building that relationship with the faculty and staff at the school is very important, as well."

There are all sorts of drills that schools are required to conduct now on a regular basis.

"We have some soft lockdown drills," said USD 308 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson. "We have evacuation drills. We have active shooter drills. We partner with the police department. Our principals will reach out to the police department and do a crawl, walk, run kind of phase about what a soft lockdown might look like. We'll get our maintenance operations involved, so they can check doors during this time. We have a way to lock down the building&nbsp; at the touch of a button. We exercise those to make sure that those are working."

The police also have keys to every building in the district if they are ever needed after hours.

"They ask for our input," Chief Burlie said. "We'll go do checks on the buildings and then provide them what we saw, advise maybe potential solutions to the problem. They have no problem listening to that and doing the best that they can to make sure their schools are as safe as possible."

An important piece of the School Resource Officer's job is building relationships with kids in the school so if they see something that isn't right, they will come to the officer and be honest. That's the most important thing students can do to be safe is to be willing to talk to the officer if they need to.

<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/2023/9/1693684484282.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson High School- School Resource Officer Kobe Brown" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson High School- School Resource Officer Kobe Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson USD 308 and the Hutchinson Police Department work together to make sure that schools are secure and safe places for students to learn."Being inside the school and connecting with all the students that are in the school, it's a big thing that they do," said Hutchinson Police Chief Brice Burlie. "The second thing is providing security for the school. Being inside the school, they are able to quickly respond to any situations that might happen inside the school and also building that relationship with the faculty and staff at the school is very important, as well."There are all sorts of drills that schools are required to conduct now on a regular basis."We have some soft lockdown drills," said USD 308 Superintendent Dr. Dawn Johnson. "We have evacuation drills. We have active shooter drills. We partner with the police department. Our principals will reach out to the police department and do a crawl, walk, run kind of phase about what a soft lockdown might look like. We'll get our maintenance operations involved, so they can check doors during this time. We have a way to lock down the building&nbsp; at the touch of a button. We exercise those to make sure that those are working."The police also have keys to every building in the district if they are ever needed after hours."They ask for our input," Chief Burlie said. "We'll go do checks on the buildings and then provide them what we saw, advise maybe potential solutions to the problem. They have no problem listening to that and doing the best that they can to make sure their schools are as safe as possible."An important piece of the School Resource Officer's job is building relationships with kids in the school so if they see something that isn't right, they will come to the officer and be honest. That's the most important thing students can do to be safe is to be willing to talk to the officer if they need to.<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;

School Resource Officers important to safety in USD 308

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch is getting ready to start a class for new business owners later this month.

"This is Jump! by Entrepreneur and Business Basics," said Jackson Swearer with StartUp Hutch. "This program comes to us by way of NetWork Kansas. This is one of their, what they call board certified programs. They've basically gone out and looked for different programs for entrepreneurship and found ones that they think are really effective. This is one of those."

Grant dollars are able to make this affordable for new business owners, while still giving them some skin in the game.

"It's a $750 value," Swearer said. "Thanks to some money from StartUp Hutch and then also some grant funds from NetWork Kansas, we're able to provide that to local Reno County entrepreneurs at only $50 a person."

It's a 12-week course to learn all the basics to start a business.

"Our ideal folks to participate in that are people who have an idea that they are thinking about starting, or maybe people who have just gotten started out," Swearer said. "They are in that first year, maybe their first few years of business and they really want to take a step back, get a handle on things and look at how they can move forward."

One blessed business owner will also get some seed money, as well.

"It concludes at the end of the 12 weeks with a pitch contest on Dec. 4," Swearer said. "All of the participants will be invited to give a pitch for their business idea that they are hoping to launch, or that they are hoping to expand. The winner of that pitch contest can win a $2000 grant. Not a lot of funds, but to somebody just starting out, that can really help to get things going."

It's a hybrid training, so you can come to watch it in person or do most of the classes <a href="https://entrepreneur-business-basics.square.site/product/jump-reno-county-fall-2023/18?cs=true&amp;cst=custom&amp;fbclid=IwAR0_EhjxUMqv7_ugPncikG_LVYFpeyxSalgbUTiYVTzLS41ccLz7e6YZApU">online</a>. Only three of the class dates are required in person.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599831307342.jpeg" alt="StartUp Hutch" />
 <figcaption>StartUp Hutch</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — StartUp Hutch is getting ready to start a class for new business owners later this month."This is Jump! by Entrepreneur and Business Basics," said Jackson Swearer with StartUp Hutch. "This program comes to us by way of NetWork Kansas. This is one of their, what they call board certified programs. They've basically gone out and looked for different programs for entrepreneurship and found ones that they think are really effective. This is one of those."Grant dollars are able to make this affordable for new business owners, while still giving them some skin in the game."It's a $750 value," Swearer said. "Thanks to some money from StartUp Hutch and then also some grant funds from NetWork Kansas, we're able to provide that to local Reno County entrepreneurs at only $50 a person."It's a 12-week course to learn all the basics to start a business."Our ideal folks to participate in that are people who have an idea that they are thinking about starting, or maybe people who have just gotten started out," Swearer said. "They are in that first year, maybe their first few years of business and they really want to take a step back, get a handle on things and look at how they can move forward."One blessed business owner will also get some seed money, as well."It concludes at the end of the 12 weeks with a pitch contest on Dec. 4," Swearer said. "All of the participants will be invited to give a pitch for their business idea that they are hoping to launch, or that they are hoping to expand. The winner of that pitch contest can win a $2000 grant. Not a lot of funds, but to somebody just starting out, that can really help to get things going."It's a hybrid training, so you can come to watch it in person or do most of the classes <a href="https://entrepreneur-business-basics.square.site/product/jump-reno-county-fall-2023/18?cs=true&amp;cst=custom&amp;fbclid=IwAR0_EhjxUMqv7_ugPncikG_LVYFpeyxSalgbUTiYVTzLS41ccLz7e6YZApU">online</a>. Only three of the class dates are required in person.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jump! class coming up for businesses

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The inaugural Zoo Paint &amp; Sip is at the Hutchinson Zoo Sept. 23.

Participate in painting, adult beverages, a silent auction, and special Zoo experiences. 

Your $75 ticket includes three complimentary drinks, a take-home DIY painting, access to exclusive silent auction items, a special gift for the inaugural event, and gourmet snacks throughout the event.&nbsp;

You can purchase tickets <a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/hutchinson/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTI1ODI0NjQ=">here</a>. Space is limited.

<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/2023/9/1693690900693.png" alt="Zoo Paint and Sip" />
 <figcaption>Zoo Paint and Sip</figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson ZooHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The inaugural Zoo Paint &amp; Sip is at the Hutchinson Zoo Sept. 23.Participate in painting, adult beverages, a silent auction, and special Zoo experiences. Your $75 ticket includes three complimentary drinks, a take-home DIY painting, access to exclusive silent auction items, a special gift for the inaugural event, and gourmet snacks throughout the event.&nbsp;You can purchase tickets <a href="https://secure.rec1.com/KS/hutchinson/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTI1ODI0NjQ=">here</a>. Space is limited.<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;

Zoo Paint & Sip coming up Sept. 23

MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson College announced the funding of an <a href="https://www.mcpherson.edu/2023/07/mcpherson-college-establishes-1-billion-endowment/">over $1.5 billion endowment in July</a>.

"A donor challenged us to raise $250 million and they would double match that up to $500 million," said President Michael Schneider. "In fact, this donor made a $1 billion irrevocable estate commitment. This is an estate commitment. We do not have the dollars right now, but we will have them in the future. In addition to the donor's $1 billion, we raised another $530 million."

The goal is to make McPherson College the small liberal arts college of the future.

"Not only does it secure our future, it secures the future that we want, it secures a strong future," Schneider said. "It infuses hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars to Kansas, so that we can continue to work on our plans to build a rural healthcare degree program and programs that will support rural healthcare in Kansas. It will allow us to take that excellence we've built in automotive restoration and build out an engineering school. This really secures my vision for students to graduate, every student, to meet 100% of need for every student in the future and to ensure that any student who wants to participate in our Student Debt Project can graduate from McPherson College without any debt."

The Student Debt Project is where McPherson College donors match 25 cents for every dollar a student contributes to their education. The school is also improving its physical infrastructure.

"We've got a brand new campus commons coming on board, right off our beachfront property on Kansas Avenue, adjacent to campus, which will be all new dining services, student services, our one stop shop for students, registering for classes, paying their accounts, financial aid, everything in between, in addition to a brand new welcome center that overlooks campus. We're expanding our Sports Center. We're adding a campus bar and grill, to give our students some other options. We've remodeled all of our residential properties, but that's just the beginning. Our board finalized a framework for a campus master plan here this summer and we're going to be going out into the local community, out into our campus over the next year, to really have a conversation about, what does it look like to build a modern destination campus?"

It's hard to say what education will look like in the coming decades, though students after COVID especially, want to feel a part of a community that values them and their contributions, and McPherson College wants to become that community.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689963133288.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy McPherson College" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy McPherson College</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostMCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson College announced the funding of an <a href="https://www.mcpherson.edu/2023/07/mcpherson-college-establishes-1-billion-endowment/">over $1.5 billion endowment in July</a>."A donor challenged us to raise $250 million and they would double match that up to $500 million," said President Michael Schneider. "In fact, this donor made a $1 billion irrevocable estate commitment. This is an estate commitment. We do not have the dollars right now, but we will have them in the future. In addition to the donor's $1 billion, we raised another $530 million."The goal is to make McPherson College the small liberal arts college of the future."Not only does it secure our future, it secures the future that we want, it secures a strong future," Schneider said. "It infuses hundreds and hundreds of millions of dollars to Kansas, so that we can continue to work on our plans to build a rural healthcare degree program and programs that will support rural healthcare in Kansas. It will allow us to take that excellence we've built in automotive restoration and build out an engineering school. This really secures my vision for students to graduate, every student, to meet 100% of need for every student in the future and to ensure that any student who wants to participate in our Student Debt Project can graduate from McPherson College without any debt."The Student Debt Project is where McPherson College donors match 25 cents for every dollar a student contributes to their education. The school is also improving its physical infrastructure."We've got a brand new campus commons coming on board, right off our beachfront property on Kansas Avenue, adjacent to campus, which will be all new dining services, student services, our one stop shop for students, registering for classes, paying their accounts, financial aid, everything in between, in addition to a brand new welcome center that overlooks campus. We're expanding our Sports Center. We're adding a campus bar and grill, to give our students some other options. We've remodeled all of our residential properties, but that's just the beginning. Our board finalized a framework for a campus master plan here this summer and we're going to be going out into the local community, out into our campus over the next year, to really have a conversation about, what does it look like to build a modern destination campus?"It's hard to say what education will look like in the coming decades, though students after COVID especially, want to feel a part of a community that values them and their contributions, and McPherson College wants to become that community.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the HutchPost mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily HutchPost email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

McPherson College secures its future with estate commitments

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dan Murray with the Kansas chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business said good help remains hard to find for their members.

"Forty percent of small business owners reported job openings that they could not fill," Murray said. "That's down two points from last month, but it's still very, very high. It is the lowest level since February 2021."

When you know it's going to be a struggle to find a replacement, sometimes you have to open up the checkbook a little more to keep someone.

"More small business owners are planning to increase their compensation in the next three months," Murray said. "The unfilled job openings slipped again in August. Owners are actively working to retain current employees and attract qualified applicants. To do that, they've got to raise compensation."

Murray isn't optimistic about the rest of the year, either.

"Unless we see a significant change in our economy, I don't see the problem improving," Murray said. "We have a population problem in Kansas, as you likely well know. Our population has remained flat or decreased in some respects, depending on where you live in the state. Until we address that problem and attract more folks to come to the state of Kansas, I'm not sure that we're going to see much improvement."

Thirty-five percent of small business owners have job openings for skilled workers and 18% have openings for unskilled labor.

<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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600954270300.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dan Murray with the Kansas chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business said good help remains hard to find for their members."Forty percent of small business owners reported job openings that they could not fill," Murray said. "That's down two points from last month, but it's still very, very high. It is the lowest level since February 2021."When you know it's going to be a struggle to find a replacement, sometimes you have to open up the checkbook a little more to keep someone."More small business owners are planning to increase their compensation in the next three months," Murray said. "The unfilled job openings slipped again in August. Owners are actively working to retain current employees and attract qualified applicants. To do that, they've got to raise compensation."Murray isn't optimistic about the rest of the year, either."Unless we see a significant change in our economy, I don't see the problem improving," Murray said. "We have a population problem in Kansas, as you likely well know. Our population has remained flat or decreased in some respects, depending on where you live in the state. Until we address that problem and attract more folks to come to the state of Kansas, I'm not sure that we're going to see much improvement."Thirty-five percent of small business owners have job openings for skilled workers and 18% have openings for unskilled labor.<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;&nbsp;

NFIB Kansas: Hiring still a struggle for members

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;

9/5/2023 3:52 AM-Jason	Earle Kieffer-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

9/4/2023 9:41 PM-Brenna	Sue Gerard	Endanger a Child; AGGRAVATED; Recklessly

9/4/2023 9:19 PM-Johnathan	Amadeus Ward-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Endanger a Child; AGGRAVATED; Recklessly; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

9/4/2023 7:07 PM-Sean	Michael Philbrick-DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+&nbsp;

9/4/2023 3:08 PM-Mason	William Gumpenberger-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage

9/4/2023 11:08 AM-Kimberly	Lynn Guerrero-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000

9/4/2023 7:12 AM-Robert	Wayne Carter-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Probation Violation&nbsp;

9/4/2023 7:03 AM-Schuyler	Joseph Willis-Agg burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

9/4/2023 5:33 AM-Muriel	Jane Stevenson-DUI; 2nd conv; blood or breath .08 or higher

9/4/2023 5:30 AM=Desire	Victoria Williams-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

9/4/2023 1:24 AM-Andrade		Cristian	Jovanny Ruiz-Failure to Appear

9/3/2023 8:05 PM-Justin	Paul Brown-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order

9/3/2023 7:57 PM-Angela	Christine Rasdall-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

9/3/2023 7:48 PM-Ashlee	Brooke Griffin-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

9/3/2023 9:46 AM-Erick	Charles Farrell-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant; Probation Violation; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="Bracelets" />
 <figcaption>Bracelets</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;9/5/2023 3:52 AM-Jason	Earle Kieffer-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order9/4/2023 9:41 PM-Brenna	Sue Gerard	Endanger a Child; AGGRAVATED; Recklessly9/4/2023 9:19 PM-Johnathan	Amadeus Ward-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Endanger a Child; AGGRAVATED; Recklessly; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body9/4/2023 7:07 PM-Sean	Michael Philbrick-DUI; 2nd conv; comp evidence of blood/breath .08+&nbsp;9/4/2023 3:08 PM-Mason	William Gumpenberger-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage9/4/2023 11:08 AM-Kimberly	Lynn Guerrero-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,0009/4/2023 7:12 AM-Robert	Wayne Carter-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Probation Violation&nbsp;9/4/2023 7:03 AM-Schuyler	Joseph Willis-Agg burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision9/4/2023 5:33 AM-Muriel	Jane Stevenson-DUI; 2nd conv; blood or breath .08 or higher9/4/2023 5:30 AM=Desire	Victoria Williams-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant9/4/2023 1:24 AM-Andrade		Cristian	Jovanny Ruiz-Failure to Appear9/3/2023 8:05 PM-Justin	Paul Brown-Viol protection order; Pre-trial order9/3/2023 7:57 PM-Angela	Christine Rasdall-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body9/3/2023 7:48 PM-Ashlee	Brooke Griffin-Failure to Appear&nbsp;9/3/2023 9:46 AM-Erick	Charles Farrell-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant; Probation Violation; Violation of conditions of release, on parole, conditional release or postrelease supervision

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Land Bank will have two items of business to deal with at their meeting Tuesday afternoon. 

The first is a request to donate property at 604 West 7th Street from&nbsp;Rebecca A. Hughes who is a co-heir with Thomas T. Lucas in the estate of Steven T. Lucas and Kenneth B. Lucas. Rebecca and Thomas wish to donate the property as they live far away from Hutchinson. 

The second item is a request of Joseph Anthony to purchase 712 S. Maple Street. He wants to build a 1,400 square foot home and a shop on the lot. Board members wanted to hear from Anthony before making a decision.

The Land Bank's regular meeting is Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the&nbsp;Hutchinson City Hall Executive Conference Room at 125 E. Avenue B.

The Land Bank Board also will meet in a Joint Study Session with the Planning Commission on Housing later in the month on Tuesday, September 19th at 5:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Land Bank will have two items of business to deal with at their meeting Tuesday afternoon. The first is a request to donate property at 604 West 7th Street from&nbsp;Rebecca A. Hughes who is a co-heir with Thomas T. Lucas in the estate of Steven T. Lucas and Kenneth B. Lucas. Rebecca and Thomas wish to donate the property as they live far away from Hutchinson. The second item is a request of Joseph Anthony to purchase 712 S. Maple Street. He wants to build a 1,400 square foot home and a shop on the lot. Board members wanted to hear from Anthony before making a decision.The Land Bank's regular meeting is Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the&nbsp;Hutchinson City Hall Executive Conference Room at 125 E. Avenue B.The Land Bank Board also will meet in a Joint Study Session with the Planning Commission on Housing later in the month on Tuesday, September 19th at 5:30 p.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; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Land Bank Board to meet Tuesday

MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson College President Michael Schneider noted that in addition to the group of students that brought the 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S Cabriolet to Pebble Beach in August, there were many alumni that were there as part of the jobs they got after graduation.

"All the cars line up to go out on tour on Thursday before the car show on Sunday," Schneider said. "I counted our alums on at least 75 of those different cars that were lined up to go on that tour. They are out there. A lot of them couldn't enjoy some of the festivities, because, quite honestly, they were working on some of the other of the world's best cars."

The Auto Restoration program at McPherson College is the only one of its kind in the United States.

"You're talking about a cap of 170 students," Schneider said. "Forty-five students a year who come into the program, 45 to 50. It's a four year liberal arts degree program. Students turn down top engineering schools like Michigan, MIT and others to come to school at McPherson College."

There is an amazing demand for these graduates expertise.

"We stopped doing job fairs," Schneider said. "We do internship fairs. We have a very robust internship program. Students can have one, two, three, four, some students have four internships, that move right into a job. This industry is hungry for labor. They are hungry for students, not just to work in their shops, but take over their shop. These students are the future of this industry."

Over the years, more than 25 McPherson College students have earned college scholarships from Pebble Beach.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692904511143.jpeg" alt="McPherson College 2023 ConcoursDElegance-Photo Courtesy McPherson College" />
 <figcaption>McPherson College 2023 ConcoursDElegance-Photo Courtesy McPherson College</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostMCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson College President Michael Schneider noted that in addition to the group of students that brought the 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S Cabriolet to Pebble Beach in August, there were many alumni that were there as part of the jobs they got after graduation."All the cars line up to go out on tour on Thursday before the car show on Sunday," Schneider said. "I counted our alums on at least 75 of those different cars that were lined up to go on that tour. They are out there. A lot of them couldn't enjoy some of the festivities, because, quite honestly, they were working on some of the other of the world's best cars."The Auto Restoration program at McPherson College is the only one of its kind in the United States."You're talking about a cap of 170 students," Schneider said. "Forty-five students a year who come into the program, 45 to 50. It's a four year liberal arts degree program. Students turn down top engineering schools like Michigan, MIT and others to come to school at McPherson College."There is an amazing demand for these graduates expertise."We stopped doing job fairs," Schneider said. "We do internship fairs. We have a very robust internship program. Students can have one, two, three, four, some students have four internships, that move right into a job. This industry is hungry for labor. They are hungry for students, not just to work in their shops, but take over their shop. These students are the future of this industry."Over the years, more than 25 McPherson College students have earned college scholarships from Pebble Beach.<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;

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