TOPEKA — The Kansas Soybean Association is calling all soybean farmers in Kansas to enter their competitive soybean crop into the Kansas Soybean Yield Contest and Value Contest. Strong participation across the state provides a snapshot of growing conditions in each region and allows friendly competition among peers. Entries are due December 1.

Districts are determined by region, tillage method and irrigation status, with a total of 18 districts in consideration. No-till on the Plains supplies additional awards in the no-till categories. Farmers may enter multiple categories, but only one entry per field.

Eligible fields must consist of at least five contiguous acres as verified by the Farm Service Agency, GPS printout or manual measurement. A non-relative witness, either Kansas State Research and Extension personnel or a specified designee, must be present at harvest and should ensure that the combine grain hopper is empty prior to harvest. Official elevator-scale tickets with moisture percentage and foreign matter included must accompany entries to be considered.

The Kansas Soybean Commission sponsors a monetary prize for the top three finishers in each district, as well as an additional $1,000 for the overall dryland and irrigated winners and any who top the 114.3 bushel-per-acre record. The amounts per district are that first place receives $300, second receives $200, and third receives $100.

The statewide Kansas Soybean Value Contest that analyzes protein, oil and other soybean qualities is also open for entries. Entrants submit 20-ounce samples, which are evaluated by Ag Processing, Inc. to determine the value. Monetary awards are also given to the three highest-value entries. Farmers may enter both the yield and value contests.

Contest winners plus one randomly drawn entry earn a trip to Commodity Classic in March. All participants receive a T-shirt for entering. Results of the contests are to be shared January 10, 2024, at the Kansas Soybean Expo in Topeka.

A full guide of contest rules and regulations, as well as the digital entry form, are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001SZu8VdAfUExmWeUnpMIAcbeEOYaoVnFFU9F5dEfZ3-tZizOW9R5oEwpZTQSQWJK1y8eEyJT8NSkTCWEXReUQvMP1agONwhntLJHJT2Pr7CTXRpwwOn34OAf-bb4LiZcx4OuSx37Obq3R9n4-S3jcOIG-VD-GQYR53JJYHGIMRmct7SQGxi-RKA==&amp;c=TVQr4aX6zfFhIHS1OTpCONsprppeXoSyJL8anb0YgStjQgxSOoaIjg==&amp;ch=UVHF8tOgAQkClVVc3So4f6QGyx5vyJlIAd8HrZSPqOysIYjbVZ_dGA==" target="_blank">kansassoybeans.org/contests</a>. Questions may be directed to the Kansas Soybean office by phone at 877-KS-SOYBEAN (877-577-6923) or to local KSRE offices.

<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/2023/8/1692745881332.jpeg" alt="Kansas Soybean" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Soybean</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Soybean AssociationTOPEKA — The Kansas Soybean Association is calling all soybean farmers in Kansas to enter their competitive soybean crop into the Kansas Soybean Yield Contest and Value Contest. Strong participation across the state provides a snapshot of growing conditions in each region and allows friendly competition among peers. Entries are due December 1.Districts are determined by region, tillage method and irrigation status, with a total of 18 districts in consideration. No-till on the Plains supplies additional awards in the no-till categories. Farmers may enter multiple categories, but only one entry per field.Eligible fields must consist of at least five contiguous acres as verified by the Farm Service Agency, GPS printout or manual measurement. A non-relative witness, either Kansas State Research and Extension personnel or a specified designee, must be present at harvest and should ensure that the combine grain hopper is empty prior to harvest. Official elevator-scale tickets with moisture percentage and foreign matter included must accompany entries to be considered.The Kansas Soybean Commission sponsors a monetary prize for the top three finishers in each district, as well as an additional $1,000 for the overall dryland and irrigated winners and any who top the 114.3 bushel-per-acre record. The amounts per district are that first place receives $300, second receives $200, and third receives $100.The statewide Kansas Soybean Value Contest that analyzes protein, oil and other soybean qualities is also open for entries. Entrants submit 20-ounce samples, which are evaluated by Ag Processing, Inc. to determine the value. Monetary awards are also given to the three highest-value entries. Farmers may enter both the yield and value contests.Contest winners plus one randomly drawn entry earn a trip to Commodity Classic in March. All participants receive a T-shirt for entering. Results of the contests are to be shared January 10, 2024, at the Kansas Soybean Expo in Topeka.A full guide of contest rules and regulations, as well as the digital entry form, are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001SZu8VdAfUExmWeUnpMIAcbeEOYaoVnFFU9F5dEfZ3-tZizOW9R5oEwpZTQSQWJK1y8eEyJT8NSkTCWEXReUQvMP1agONwhntLJHJT2Pr7CTXRpwwOn34OAf-bb4LiZcx4OuSx37Obq3R9n4-S3jcOIG-VD-GQYR53JJYHGIMRmct7SQGxi-RKA==&amp;c=TVQr4aX6zfFhIHS1OTpCONsprppeXoSyJL8anb0YgStjQgxSOoaIjg==&amp;ch=UVHF8tOgAQkClVVc3So4f6QGyx5vyJlIAd8HrZSPqOysIYjbVZ_dGA==" target="_blank">kansassoybeans.org/contests</a>. Questions may be directed to the Kansas Soybean office by phone at 877-KS-SOYBEAN (877-577-6923) or to local KSRE offices.<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;

Kansas Soybean Association announces '23 yield, value contests

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;

8/23/2023 2:56 AM-Victoria	Alejandra Rivera-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

8/23/2023 12:45 AM-Daniel	Leroy Paul-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)

8/23/2023 12:08 AM-Jacqueline	Renee Coonce-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct

8/22/2023 4:53 PM-Michala	Elizabeth Lanae Cooprider-Probation Violation; Failure to Appear; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant

8/22/2023 3:36 PM-Brandon	Paul LeGron-Failure to Appear

8/22/2023 2:24 PM-Jerlene	Lenay Oliver-Driver's Licenses; Drive while License Suspended/Cancelled/Revoked; Insurance; Drive Uninsured Vehicle upon Highway or Public Property

8/22/2023 10:24 AM-Uriah	Vincent Ballard-Failure to Appear

8/22/2023 10:24 AM	Ballard		Uriah	Vincent	Failure to Appear

8/22/2023 7:10 AM-Kelby	Ray Becker-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000; Burglary; Non-dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500

<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; &nbsp;8/23/2023 2:56 AM-Victoria	Alejandra Rivera-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)8/23/2023 12:45 AM-Daniel	Leroy Paul-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction)8/23/2023 12:08 AM-Jacqueline	Renee Coonce-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct8/22/2023 4:53 PM-Michala	Elizabeth Lanae Cooprider-Probation Violation; Failure to Appear; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose; Felony Case, Execution of a Felony Warrant8/22/2023 3:36 PM-Brandon	Paul LeGron-Failure to Appear8/22/2023 2:24 PM-Jerlene	Lenay Oliver-Driver's Licenses; Drive while License Suspended/Cancelled/Revoked; Insurance; Drive Uninsured Vehicle upon Highway or Public Property8/22/2023 10:24 AM-Uriah	Vincent Ballard-Failure to Appear8/22/2023 10:24 AM	Ballard		Uriah	Vincent	Failure to Appear8/22/2023 7:10 AM-Kelby	Ray Becker-Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000; Burglary; Non-dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500

Daily Bookings

MCPHERSON, Kan. — According to a message sent to parents Tuesday evening, McPherson High students will be back in school on Wednesday.

"The motor in the chiller of the HVAC system at MHS has been replaced and is running as necessary to cool the building," said principal Dr. Audrey A. Herbst. 

School will be in session Wednesday, August 23rd. 

McPherson High will operate on a normal Wednesday schedule with a 2:15 student dismissal time for professional learning and collaboration for staff.  

"Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for our students," Herbst said.&nbsp;

This news comes after McPherson High students were sent home at 10:45 a.m. Monday and did not have school Tuesday due to the HVAC problems.

An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect until 10 p.m. Thursday for McPherson County.&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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668630750296.jpeg" alt="McPherson USD 418 Logo" />
 <figcaption>McPherson USD 418 Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — According to a message sent to parents Tuesday evening, McPherson High students will be back in school on Wednesday."The motor in the chiller of the HVAC system at MHS has been replaced and is running as necessary to cool the building," said principal Dr. Audrey A. Herbst. School will be in session Wednesday, August 23rd. McPherson High will operate on a normal Wednesday schedule with a 2:15 student dismissal time for professional learning and collaboration for staff. "Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for our students," Herbst said.&nbsp;This news comes after McPherson High students were sent home at 10:45 a.m. Monday and did not have school Tuesday due to the HVAC problems.An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect until 10 p.m. Thursday for McPherson County.&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;

McPherson High back in class Wednesday

TOPEKA — Democrat State Rep. Jason Probst of Hutchinson joined House Minority Leader Vic Miller of Topeka in a press conference Tuesday afternoon at the Statehouse to open up the discussion on warrant policy after the raid on a newspaper publisher and his mother in Marion County, Kansas earlier this month.

"The legislation that will be drafted is designed to say, search warrants have to be signed by a District Court judge and not by a magistrate judge," Probst said. "Part of our motivation for that is to, mostly just to keep a conversation going about what we ought to be thinking about and what needs to happen and hopefully generate some more ideas. Neither Vic nor I feel like this is the answer to the problem, but we think it's a first step in keeping a conversation going about what sort of things we ought to be looking at to make sure we're protecting the free press."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/9ce4527a-402f-4d0a-888c-b859d43aa4b2">The video of Joan Meyer at the home she shared with her son Eric, publisher of the Marion County Record is sobering to anyone who watches it</a>.&nbsp;

"Anybody that saw the video could see how distressed she was," Probst said. "They were not only in her house, but they were going through things that had no relevance to anything that could be connected to an investigation. It was completely beyond the pale."

Probst, a former editor at the Hutchinson News, does understand that sometimes journalists have to defend their work, but there's a procedure that should be followed to do that.

"There would be some court challenge to getting information, or finding out about our sources or stopping a story, there was never a search warrant involved, it was always a subpoena," Probst said. "Then, we had an opportunity to bring an attorney in, our attorney, to challenge the subpoena and explain why there was an interest in protecting the source, or protecting the information, or going ahead with the story. We always had an opportunity to make those arguments in an open court in front of a judge, not through a search warrant that allowed the authorities to come in and start taking equipment and going through it on their own."

The important piece is to be able to have that discussion in the open air, because there is a reason that the First Amendment is First in the Constitution.

"The press has a specific protection in the Constitution," Probst said. "Clearly it was a very important concept to the framers of our country, that this was critical to the functioning of our democracy. The other thing is that I've always viewed the press largely as an extension of the public. If the press's rights are threatened by powerful institutions, then the public's rights are likewise threatened by those same institutions."

The Kansas Legislature does not gavel in again until January.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692785944601.png" alt="Rep. Jason Probs and Rep. Vic Miller during Tuesday's news conference -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Jason Probs and Rep. Vic Miller during Tuesday's news conference -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostTOPEKA — Democrat State Rep. Jason Probst of Hutchinson joined House Minority Leader Vic Miller of Topeka in a press conference Tuesday afternoon at the Statehouse to open up the discussion on warrant policy after the raid on a newspaper publisher and his mother in Marion County, Kansas earlier this month."The legislation that will be drafted is designed to say, search warrants have to be signed by a District Court judge and not by a magistrate judge," Probst said. "Part of our motivation for that is to, mostly just to keep a conversation going about what we ought to be thinking about and what needs to happen and hopefully generate some more ideas. Neither Vic nor I feel like this is the answer to the problem, but we think it's a first step in keeping a conversation going about what sort of things we ought to be looking at to make sure we're protecting the free press."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/9ce4527a-402f-4d0a-888c-b859d43aa4b2">The video of Joan Meyer at the home she shared with her son Eric, publisher of the Marion County Record is sobering to anyone who watches it</a>.&nbsp;"Anybody that saw the video could see how distressed she was," Probst said. "They were not only in her house, but they were going through things that had no relevance to anything that could be connected to an investigation. It was completely beyond the pale."Probst, a former editor at the Hutchinson News, does understand that sometimes journalists have to defend their work, but there's a procedure that should be followed to do that."There would be some court challenge to getting information, or finding out about our sources or stopping a story, there was never a search warrant involved, it was always a subpoena," Probst said. "Then, we had an opportunity to bring an attorney in, our attorney, to challenge the subpoena and explain why there was an interest in protecting the source, or protecting the information, or going ahead with the story. We always had an opportunity to make those arguments in an open court in front of a judge, not through a search warrant that allowed the authorities to come in and start taking equipment and going through it on their own."The important piece is to be able to have that discussion in the open air, because there is a reason that the First Amendment is First in the Constitution."The press has a specific protection in the Constitution," Probst said. "Clearly it was a very important concept to the framers of our country, that this was critical to the functioning of our democracy. The other thing is that I've always viewed the press largely as an extension of the public. If the press's rights are threatened by powerful institutions, then the public's rights are likewise threatened by those same institutions."The Kansas Legislature does not gavel in again until January.<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;

Probst, Miller want to see warrant policy change

The Reno County Health Department has been tracking overdoses and trends since Oct. 1 of 2020. In the last 24 hours there have been 5 non-fatal overdoses, 4 of those involving methamphetamine and 1 involving fentanyl. 

Methamphetamine is an illegal stimulant that can cause a host of adverse health outcomes. 

While naloxone (Narcan) is not effective for stimulants, we still strongly encourage everyone to carry naloxone and be trained in how to use it due to the unsafe and toxic drug supply that includes the presence of fentanyl and the suspicion of xylazine.

The Reno Recovery Collaborative recommends the following steps and strategies for our community:

• Naloxone (Narcan) education, trainings, and availability <a href="https://www.dccca.org/naloxone-program/">https://www.dccca.org/naloxone-program/</a>

• Encourage more people to carry naloxone (Narcan)

• Encourage members of our community who use substances to never use alone

• Check in on friends or family regularly that use substances 

For more local information, education, and specific activities on substance use, or if you want to get involved in the Reno Recovery Collaborative, please contact Seth Dewey at <a href="mailto:seth.dewey@renogov.org">seth.dewey@renogov.org</a>.

Find a treatment facility: <a href="https://findtreatment.gov/\">https://findtreatment.gov/</a>

Kansas Substance Use Disorder Treatment Referral line: 1-866-645-8216

Kansas Recovery Network: Harm Reduction services, naloxone, fentanyl test strips, etc. and peer navigation <a href="https://hutchinsonnarcan.8b.io/">https://hutchinsonnarcan.8b.io/</a>

Reno ASAP Alcohol and Drug Services: 620-665-6446

Horizons Mental Health - phone: 620-663-7595

Website: <a href="https://www.hutchregional.com/locations-services/horizons-mental-health-center">https://www.hutchregional.com/locations-services/horizons-mental-health-center</a>

PrairieStar Health Center - phone: 620-663-8484, Website: <a href="https://www.prairiestarhealth.org">https://www.prairiestarhealth.org</a>.

All these resources and other support groups can be found at <a href="http://www.renorecoveryks.com">www.renorecoveryks.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/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="Reno County Health Department 1" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Health Department 1</figcaption>
 </figure>SANDRA MILBURN Reno CountyThe Reno County Health Department has been tracking overdoses and trends since Oct. 1 of 2020. In the last 24 hours there have been 5 non-fatal overdoses, 4 of those involving methamphetamine and 1 involving fentanyl. Methamphetamine is an illegal stimulant that can cause a host of adverse health outcomes. While naloxone (Narcan) is not effective for stimulants, we still strongly encourage everyone to carry naloxone and be trained in how to use it due to the unsafe and toxic drug supply that includes the presence of fentanyl and the suspicion of xylazine.The Reno Recovery Collaborative recommends the following steps and strategies for our community:• Naloxone (Narcan) education, trainings, and availability <a href="https://www.dccca.org/naloxone-program/">https://www.dccca.org/naloxone-program/</a>• Encourage more people to carry naloxone (Narcan)• Encourage members of our community who use substances to never use alone• Check in on friends or family regularly that use substances For more local information, education, and specific activities on substance use, or if you want to get involved in the Reno Recovery Collaborative, please contact Seth Dewey at <a href="mailto:seth.dewey@renogov.org">seth.dewey@renogov.org</a>.State and National Treatment Resources:Find a treatment facility: <a href="https://findtreatment.gov/\">https://findtreatment.gov/</a>National treatment line: 1-800-662-4357Never Use Alone Hotline: 1-800-484-3731Kansas Substance Use Disorder Treatment Referral line: 1-866-645-8216Reno County Resources:Kansas Recovery Network: Harm Reduction services, naloxone, fentanyl test strips, etc. and peer navigation <a href="https://hutchinsonnarcan.8b.io/">https://hutchinsonnarcan.8b.io/</a>Crossover Recovery: 620-669-9024SACK Detox Unit: 620-259-2063Breakthru: 620-218-0636Recovery Response Team: 620-663-7595Crisis Line: 1-800-794-0163Reno ASAP Alcohol and Drug Services: 620-665-6446Horizons Mental Health - phone: 620-663-7595Website: <a href="https://www.hutchregional.com/locations-services/horizons-mental-health-center">https://www.hutchregional.com/locations-services/horizons-mental-health-center</a>PrairieStar Health Center - phone: 620-663-8484, Website: <a href="https://www.prairiestarhealth.org">https://www.prairiestarhealth.org</a>.All these resources and other support groups can be found at <a href="http://www.renorecoveryks.com">www.renorecoveryks.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;

Health Alert: Five overdoses in the last 24 hours

MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson Police, the City of McPherson and the Central Kansas Foundation invite McPherson community members to attend a free  Community Fentanyl Awareness Presentation on Thursday, August 24, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McPherson Community Building, 122 E. Marlin Street.

Representatives of those groups will present information about Opioid Usage (Local Statistics and Observations), NARCAN Resources, Signs of Overdose,  Opioid Treatment Resources, and more.&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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595884472466.png" alt="City of McPherson logo.png" />
 <figcaption>City of McPherson logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — McPherson Police, the City of McPherson and the Central Kansas Foundation invite McPherson community members to attend a free Community Fentanyl Awareness Presentation on Thursday, August 24, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McPherson Community Building, 122 E. Marlin Street.Representatives of those groups will present information about Opioid Usage (Local Statistics and Observations), NARCAN Resources, Signs of Overdose, Opioid Treatment Resources, and more.&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;

McPherson holding Fentanyl Awareness presentation Thursday

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — As Pretty Prairie USD 311 prepares to start school Wednesday, USD 311 Superintendent Ashley Anderson said work on projects approved as part of the district's bond issue has not started yet.

"We've got a schedule of projects," Anderson said. "The roofs are going to be one of the first projects. Those have been out to bid. We're just waiting right now on our CMAR to contact us and go through those. Windows, we'll start chipping away at that. The big work with the gym expansion. We'll start outside work probably in October, from what I've seen on the schedule."

The bulk of the gym expansion work will come in the summer of 2024.

"Secure entrances will come next summer, just due to the remodeling that goes on with that," Anderson said. "We're hopeful to get windows and our ag shop and our science lab, those things taken care of during the school year."

Because of that, both teachers and students are going to have to be flexible as projects go forward.

"We were working on a different project this last week when we had teachers in the building that wasn't bond issue related, but something that we needed to get done," Anderson said. "You could hear all the clinking and the pounding on things. We were just kind of all like, hey, we need to get used to it and embrace these sounds, because that means good things are happening."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/f4b2217c-1505-4be9-af68-2c573664b88b">The bond passed in May is a total bond of $7.7 million</a>.&nbsp;

<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/2022/9/1662516584762.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostPRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — As Pretty Prairie USD 311 prepares to start school Wednesday, USD 311 Superintendent Ashley Anderson said work on projects approved as part of the district's bond issue has not started yet."We've got a schedule of projects," Anderson said. "The roofs are going to be one of the first projects. Those have been out to bid. We're just waiting right now on our CMAR to contact us and go through those. Windows, we'll start chipping away at that. The big work with the gym expansion. We'll start outside work probably in October, from what I've seen on the schedule."The bulk of the gym expansion work will come in the summer of 2024."Secure entrances will come next summer, just due to the remodeling that goes on with that," Anderson said. "We're hopeful to get windows and our ag shop and our science lab, those things taken care of during the school year."Because of that, both teachers and students are going to have to be flexible as projects go forward."We were working on a different project this last week when we had teachers in the building that wasn't bond issue related, but something that we needed to get done," Anderson said. "You could hear all the clinking and the pounding on things. We were just kind of all like, hey, we need to get used to it and embrace these sounds, because that means good things are happening."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/f4b2217c-1505-4be9-af68-2c573664b88b">The bond passed in May is a total bond of $7.7 million</a>.&nbsp;<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;

Anderson: Bond issue work to come later this fall

HUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is excited to announce the induction of Ron and Marsha Schilling, Edson, Kansas as the 2023 Wall of Honor inductee in a combination of presentations to be held at the Foundation’s 2023 Boots and Bling event and also during the Supreme Drive of the Kansas State Fair Open Beef Show. Ron and Marsha have been life-long supporters of the Kansas State Fair and the Kansas Beef Cattle Industry. Ron and Marsha developed a passion for agriculture and livestock from their respective parents and their involvement in 4-H livestock projects in Sherman County. They each separately started a purebred registered Limousin cowherd as part of their 4-H projects. Their involvement with the Kansas State Fair began when they attended and also then exhibited their animals in the 4-H livestock shows at the Fair. Having known each other through 4-H, Ron said he always had his eye on Marsha, but only had the guts to ask her out on a date after he went off to Colby Community College. There, he competed on the livestock judging team and learned to give a good set of reasons. The confidence gained from livestock judging finally gave him the courage to ask Marsha for a date. One date led to many dates, and in 1979 they married and “honeymooned” in Manhattan until 1981 when Ron finished his degree in Animal Science from Kansas State University. After Ron graduated from Kansas State University they moved back to Sherman County in northwest Kansas, where they’ve made their home, and been actively involved in production agriculture; raising crops, livestock, 3 wonderful sons and 4 perfect grandkids. In 2024, Ron and Marsha will celebrate 50 years of membership in the North American Limousin Foundation with the reputation of breeding top-quality Limousin cattle that worked for cattlemen across the country. In 2012, they added a registered Angus herd to their ranching operation. The Schillings have been selling registered seedstock for more than 40 years. They currently hold two auctions each year, selling show quality heifers in the fall and a production sale in the spring focusing on Limousin, Lim-Flex and Angus bulls along with a selection of high-quality replacement females. They’ve had a love for the Kansas State Fair since their youth. The idea for holding a Supreme Drive for the open beef show at the Kansas State Fair started in the early 2000’s while exhibiting open class cattle with their sons. The Grand Champions from each beef breed would compete for the title of Supreme Champion. This was prior to the building of the Prairie Pavilion complex, built in 2004. The Schilling’s know that the quality of the open show cattle exhibited at the Kansas State Fair helped set the standard for beef shows nationwide. Grand Champions from the Kansas State Fair often go on to win major livestock shows across the nation. After many conversations, persistence and getting a Fair Board that was willing to try something new, the idea gained momentum and in 2007 with the help of Ron Holland and Anne Lampe, the first Supreme Drive was held. According to the Schillings, it was a labor of love by many in the purebred beef industry to pull off this show. It highlights all the breed Grand Champions and allows one female and one bull the distinction of Supreme Champion of the Kansas State Fair. The Schillings noted the Supreme Drive has been blessed with great sponsors from the early years, many still sponsors to this day, and new sponsors who become part of the Supreme Drive fanfare with each new fair. Ron designed the trophy after hockey’s “Stanley Cup” Trophy, where the names of the winners’ names are added each year making the trophy bigger and more prestigious to win each year in succession. "Ron and Marsha have been integral to the Supreme Drive since its inception. In addition to being an open show exhibitor and sponsor, they’ve served as treasurer of the Supreme Drive Committee since the beginning. Ron sets up the Breed Champion display, ensuring each detail is coordinated from the breed stall signs, to personally welcoming the exhibitors. Marsha organizes the Supreme Drive reception, ordering the food and setting up the event for exhibitors and spectators.” said Anne Lampe, Kansas State Fair Beef Superintendent and Show Manager. Anne continued, “Ron and Marsha are deeply invested in the success of the open beef shows at the Kansas State Fair, I always know that if I need help with anything concerning the Supreme Drive, the Schilling family is ready to help." The Schillings feel honored to be a part of the development and continued success of the Open Beef Show Supreme Drive at the Kansas State Fair. While making a difference for Kansas State Fair, they have also been active members of their local community serving on the Extension Board, Farm Bureau Board, School Board, and as 4-H club leaders, 4-H Beef leaders, on the Northwest Kansas District Free Fair Carnival Board and they host the Tri-State Royal of Champions every August. They are also actively involved in the Goodland Church of Christ. Most recently served on the Topside Manor Board which helped pass a bond issue, design and built a state-of-the-art full care facility for the elderly of Northwest Kansas. Marsha currently serves on the Ground Water Board and Ron is the current President of the Sherman County Community Foundation. The Schillings have always believed that if we want the world to be a better place, we all need to start with our home community first.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on how you can support the Wall of Honor and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation please contact James Fisher, Executive Director, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation at 620-615-7388 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org">James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692635660635.jpeg" alt="Ron and Marsha Schilling-Image Courtesy Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation" />
 <figcaption>Ron and Marsha Schilling-Image Courtesy Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Fairgrounds FoundationHUTCHINSON, Kan.— The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation is excited to announce the induction of Ron and Marsha Schilling, Edson, Kansas as the 2023 Wall of Honor inductee in a combination of presentations to be held at the Foundation’s 2023 Boots and Bling event and also during the Supreme Drive of the Kansas State Fair Open Beef Show. Ron and Marsha have been life-long supporters of the Kansas State Fair and the Kansas Beef Cattle Industry. Ron and Marsha developed a passion for agriculture and livestock from their respective parents and their involvement in 4-H livestock projects in Sherman County. They each separately started a purebred registered Limousin cowherd as part of their 4-H projects. Their involvement with the Kansas State Fair began when they attended and also then exhibited their animals in the 4-H livestock shows at the Fair. Having known each other through 4-H, Ron said he always had his eye on Marsha, but only had the guts to ask her out on a date after he went off to Colby Community College. There, he competed on the livestock judging team and learned to give a good set of reasons. The confidence gained from livestock judging finally gave him the courage to ask Marsha for a date. One date led to many dates, and in 1979 they married and “honeymooned” in Manhattan until 1981 when Ron finished his degree in Animal Science from Kansas State University. After Ron graduated from Kansas State University they moved back to Sherman County in northwest Kansas, where they’ve made their home, and been actively involved in production agriculture; raising crops, livestock, 3 wonderful sons and 4 perfect grandkids. In 2024, Ron and Marsha will celebrate 50 years of membership in the North American Limousin Foundation with the reputation of breeding top-quality Limousin cattle that worked for cattlemen across the country. In 2012, they added a registered Angus herd to their ranching operation. The Schillings have been selling registered seedstock for more than 40 years. They currently hold two auctions each year, selling show quality heifers in the fall and a production sale in the spring focusing on Limousin, Lim-Flex and Angus bulls along with a selection of high-quality replacement females. They’ve had a love for the Kansas State Fair since their youth. The idea for holding a Supreme Drive for the open beef show at the Kansas State Fair started in the early 2000’s while exhibiting open class cattle with their sons. The Grand Champions from each beef breed would compete for the title of Supreme Champion. This was prior to the building of the Prairie Pavilion complex, built in 2004. The Schilling’s know that the quality of the open show cattle exhibited at the Kansas State Fair helped set the standard for beef shows nationwide. Grand Champions from the Kansas State Fair often go on to win major livestock shows across the nation. After many conversations, persistence and getting a Fair Board that was willing to try something new, the idea gained momentum and in 2007 with the help of Ron Holland and Anne Lampe, the first Supreme Drive was held. According to the Schillings, it was a labor of love by many in the purebred beef industry to pull off this show. It highlights all the breed Grand Champions and allows one female and one bull the distinction of Supreme Champion of the Kansas State Fair. The Schillings noted the Supreme Drive has been blessed with great sponsors from the early years, many still sponsors to this day, and new sponsors who become part of the Supreme Drive fanfare with each new fair. Ron designed the trophy after hockey’s “Stanley Cup” Trophy, where the names of the winners’ names are added each year making the trophy bigger and more prestigious to win each year in succession. "Ron and Marsha have been integral to the Supreme Drive since its inception. In addition to being an open show exhibitor and sponsor, they’ve served as treasurer of the Supreme Drive Committee since the beginning. Ron sets up the Breed Champion display, ensuring each detail is coordinated from the breed stall signs, to personally welcoming the exhibitors. Marsha organizes the Supreme Drive reception, ordering the food and setting up the event for exhibitors and spectators.” said Anne Lampe, Kansas State Fair Beef Superintendent and Show Manager. Anne continued, “Ron and Marsha are deeply invested in the success of the open beef shows at the Kansas State Fair, I always know that if I need help with anything concerning the Supreme Drive, the Schilling family is ready to help." The Schillings feel honored to be a part of the development and continued success of the Open Beef Show Supreme Drive at the Kansas State Fair. While making a difference for Kansas State Fair, they have also been active members of their local community serving on the Extension Board, Farm Bureau Board, School Board, and as 4-H club leaders, 4-H Beef leaders, on the Northwest Kansas District Free Fair Carnival Board and they host the Tri-State Royal of Champions every August. They are also actively involved in the Goodland Church of Christ. Most recently served on the Topside Manor Board which helped pass a bond issue, design and built a state-of-the-art full care facility for the elderly of Northwest Kansas. Marsha currently serves on the Ground Water Board and Ron is the current President of the Sherman County Community Foundation. The Schillings have always believed that if we want the world to be a better place, we all need to start with our home community first.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For more information on how you can support the Wall of Honor and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation please contact James Fisher, Executive Director, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation at 620-615-7388 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org">James.Fisher@KansasSFF.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Ron and Marsha Schilling now in Wall of Honor for Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Brice Burlie is excited about the opportunity to lead, which is not something he would have expected to get the opportunity to do even as little as one year ago.

"The command level is something that I enjoy, because I can help the officers on the street get everything that they need to be successful themselves," Burlie said. "I can be a little more influential in the direction of the agency, providing, mainly due to my experience, that leadership, that hopefully officers on the agency can use in a positive way and be better at their jobs because of it."

Burlie has spent 24 years with the Hutchinson Police Department, and he realizes that getting those who have chosen to start their career with the agency off on the right foot is an important part of leadership.

"They've gotten all the training now, they've learned the laws, procedures, things of that nature," Burlie said. "Now they've got to go out and apply it. We do have an extensive field training program. They'll be spending the next 14 weeks riding around with another officer who is experienced. We call them the field training officers. They'll take them out on the street and then take what they've learned, in kind of the classroom environment and then start applying it to the real world. During that same time, the philosophies of the Hutchinson Police Department will start to be integrated with them and then they can start learning how to be officers on their own. After that 14 weeks, then they move out on their own, but they still have supervision on the street from our sargeants."

The staffing needs of the department still keep coverage of the city a challenge, even when close to full strength.

"We do overlap during the higher call volumes, the late afternoon into the evening," Burlie said. "You could potentially have anywhere from 10-12 officers and two sargeants along with a platoon&nbsp;lieutenant."

Burlie was named interim chief in June 2023, before being hired to the permanent job earlier this month.

<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/2023/8/1692048835078.jpeg" alt="Police Chief Brice Burlie" />
 <figcaption>Police Chief Brice Burlie</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Police Chief Brice Burlie is excited about the opportunity to lead, which is not something he would have expected to get the opportunity to do even as little as one year ago."The command level is something that I enjoy, because I can help the officers on the street get everything that they need to be successful themselves," Burlie said. "I can be a little more influential in the direction of the agency, providing, mainly due to my experience, that leadership, that hopefully officers on the agency can use in a positive way and be better at their jobs because of it."Burlie has spent 24 years with the Hutchinson Police Department, and he realizes that getting those who have chosen to start their career with the agency off on the right foot is an important part of leadership."They've gotten all the training now, they've learned the laws, procedures, things of that nature," Burlie said. "Now they've got to go out and apply it. We do have an extensive field training program. They'll be spending the next 14 weeks riding around with another officer who is experienced. We call them the field training officers. They'll take them out on the street and then take what they've learned, in kind of the classroom environment and then start applying it to the real world. During that same time, the philosophies of the Hutchinson Police Department will start to be integrated with them and then they can start learning how to be officers on their own. After that 14 weeks, then they move out on their own, but they still have supervision on the street from our sargeants."The staffing needs of the department still keep coverage of the city a challenge, even when close to full strength."We do overlap during the higher call volumes, the late afternoon into the evening," Burlie said. "You could potentially have anywhere from 10-12 officers and two sargeants along with a platoon&nbsp;lieutenant."Burlie was named interim chief in June 2023, before being hired to the permanent job earlier this month.<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;

Burlie looking to help officers get what they need

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a successful first time being included in the Cops at Donut Shops fundraiser Friday at Dunkin Donuts in Hutchinson where they raised around $450, Andrew Soule with the Reno County Sheriff's Office is looking forward to continuing to support Special Olympics throughout the fall.

"We should be having an event with Club Car Wash in the near future, I hope," Soule said. "We're getting into football season. We'll be into our Cover the Cruiser events before we know it. All kinds of things coming up throughout the rest of the year."

Soule has done Cover the Cruiser at Hutch High and Buhler football games in the past, he's hoping to do more this fall.

"I'm trying to let the folks get back to school and get the year started before I start harassing athletic directors at all our local institutions. I am planning and hoping to be able to get Nickerson done this fall."

Soule would also love to be a part of a HutchCC event, but has not spoken to them about it at this point.

<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/2021/3/1617229597449.jpeg" alt="special olympics kansas logo.jpeg" />
 <figcaption>special olympics kansas logo.jpeg</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — After a successful first time being included in the Cops at Donut Shops fundraiser Friday at Dunkin Donuts in Hutchinson where they raised around $450, Andrew Soule with the Reno County Sheriff's Office is looking forward to continuing to support Special Olympics throughout the fall."We should be having an event with Club Car Wash in the near future, I hope," Soule said. "We're getting into football season. We'll be into our Cover the Cruiser events before we know it. All kinds of things coming up throughout the rest of the year."Soule has done Cover the Cruiser at Hutch High and Buhler football games in the past, he's hoping to do more this fall."I'm trying to let the folks get back to school and get the year started before I start harassing athletic directors at all our local institutions. I am planning and hoping to be able to get Nickerson done this fall."Soule would also love to be a part of a HutchCC event, but has not spoken to them about it at this point.<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;

Fundraising continues for Special Olympics

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners will decide the direction the sewer project for the Yoder and HABIT sewer districts will go at their meeting on Wednesday.

According to agenda documents, Reno County was notified in 2018 of permit compliance issues for both the Yoder and HABIT sewer districts. Schwab Eaton out of Manhattan was hired to work on the two projects that same year.

Preliminary plans were developed by the end of 2019 for both districts independently and a possible joint project. During this time, the previous public works director and county administrator both retired. 

Don and Randy jumped into discussions with Schwab Eaton as soon as they both were in their new positions in the first quarter of 2020. The combination of the two projects into one is what staff recommends, but to understand the full impact of the decision it is important to understand a couple of nuisances between the districts’ needs.

Yoder and HABIT systems are different and have different needs with this project, but both are undersized, and Yoder is out of compliance with KDHE. The Yoder sewer district’s main problem is the capacity of their lagoons (southwest of K96 and Yoder Road) are undersized for their current needs. The internal collection system for Yoder is in adequate condition. Yoder’s lagoons are approximately 1 mile from the lagoons serving HABIT. 

The HABIT sewer district has a different problem with their system. HABIT’s biggest problem when the project began was their collection system of 70+ years will not last much longer. Examples of problems are clay pipes currently in place are deteriorating and need to be replaced with PVC.

Last spring, the county was ready to move forward with recommendations to the county commission for financing of the project and plan approvals. The plan was to have the two districts combine, with residents of the respective districts paying their fair share of the total project. The total project cost, based on 2019 estimates&nbsp;was $2.99 million, for a total of 101 estimated customers. 

The county had received preliminary loan financing through KDHE that had around 30% forgivable amounts that lowered the overall cost to residents, with the delay it is unknown how much, if any, forgivable amounts will be awarded to the district. 

The delay happened due to new information provided to the county.

As staff was working with the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center to discuss holding a town hall (public hearing) on their premises to inform the residents of the two districts about the proposed plan, the training center informed county staff that that they have preliminary plans to increase their size of facilities and number of students. The increase will understandably increase the need of their sewer usage.

At that time, staff contacted Schwab Eaton and learned with the training center’s expansion, the project will need more lagoon space that requires the county to purchase land adjacent to the current lagoons. 

The idea was then presented to the commission about purchasing land and the commission asked that county staff look into partnering with the City of Hutchinson and connect their sewer lines to the Yoder and HABIT districts.

The city is open to discussions of taking the wastewater from these two districts into their treatment plant.

For consideration, the county would still be required to follow through with the HABIT project that replaces their clay lines. Other unknowns to work with the city is what the BOD's are for all of the district users for each district and how that will impact the treatment center and whether additional costs will be added by the city for treatment.

For comparison purposes, the joint system lagoon option will cost the districts an estimated $6,133,100 and the option to connect to the City of Hutchinson's system will cost an estimated $4,898,930. Both numbers include the land purchase that has already taken place for $350,000. This is a difference of $1,234,170.

Regardless of the option chosen, Reno County will be maintaining the sewer districts entire system for the duration of the districts life.

In talking with Ranson Financial, who the county has a contract with for assistance with loan administration, that company has stated to county staff that for the KDHE loan that has a forgivable amount available, the county must choose one option or the other. 

If the county decides to change options, the county would then have to reapply and go through the process in a following loan cycle. The loan application is due by October 15, 2023.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688153783387.jpeg" alt="Reno County Courthouse- Photo by Judd Weil" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Courthouse- Photo by Judd Weil</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners will decide the direction the sewer project for the Yoder and HABIT sewer districts will go at their meeting on Wednesday.According to agenda documents, Reno County was notified in 2018 of permit compliance issues for both the Yoder and HABIT sewer districts. Schwab Eaton out of Manhattan was hired to work on the two projects that same year.Preliminary plans were developed by the end of 2019 for both districts independently and a possible joint project. During this time, the previous public works director and county administrator both retired. Don and Randy jumped into discussions with Schwab Eaton as soon as they both were in their new positions in the first quarter of 2020. The combination of the two projects into one is what staff recommends, but to understand the full impact of the decision it is important to understand a couple of nuisances between the districts’ needs.Yoder and HABIT systems are different and have different needs with this project, but both are undersized, and Yoder is out of compliance with KDHE. The Yoder sewer district’s main problem is the capacity of their lagoons (southwest of K96 and Yoder Road) are undersized for their current needs. The internal collection system for Yoder is in adequate condition. Yoder’s lagoons are approximately 1 mile from the lagoons serving HABIT. The HABIT sewer district has a different problem with their system. HABIT’s biggest problem when the project began was their collection system of 70+ years will not last much longer. Examples of problems are clay pipes currently in place are deteriorating and need to be replaced with PVC.Last spring, the county was ready to move forward with recommendations to the county commission for financing of the project and plan approvals. The plan was to have the two districts combine, with residents of the respective districts paying their fair share of the total project. The total project cost, based on 2019 estimates&nbsp;was $2.99 million, for a total of 101 estimated customers. The county had received preliminary loan financing through KDHE that had around 30% forgivable amounts that lowered the overall cost to residents, with the delay it is unknown how much, if any, forgivable amounts will be awarded to the district. The delay happened due to new information provided to the county.As staff was working with the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center to discuss holding a town hall (public hearing) on their premises to inform the residents of the two districts about the proposed plan, the training center informed county staff that that they have preliminary plans to increase their size of facilities and number of students. The increase will understandably increase the need of their sewer usage.At that time, staff contacted Schwab Eaton and learned with the training center’s expansion, the project will need more lagoon space that requires the county to purchase land adjacent to the current lagoons. The idea was then presented to the commission about purchasing land and the commission asked that county staff look into partnering with the City of Hutchinson and connect their sewer lines to the Yoder and HABIT districts.The city is open to discussions of taking the wastewater from these two districts into their treatment plant.For consideration, the county would still be required to follow through with the HABIT project that replaces their clay lines. Other unknowns to work with the city is what the BOD's are for all of the district users for each district and how that will impact the treatment center and whether additional costs will be added by the city for treatment.For comparison purposes, the joint system lagoon option will cost the districts an estimated $6,133,100 and the option to connect to the City of Hutchinson's system will cost an estimated $4,898,930. Both numbers include the land purchase that has already taken place for $350,000. This is a difference of $1,234,170.Regardless of the option chosen, Reno County will be maintaining the sewer districts entire system for the duration of the districts life.In talking with Ranson Financial, who the county has a contract with for assistance with loan administration, that company has stated to county staff that for the KDHE loan that has a forgivable amount available, the county must choose one option or the other. If the county decides to change options, the county would then have to reapply and go through the process in a following loan cycle. The loan application is due by October 15, 2023.The Board of County Commissioners meets at 9 a.m. Wednesday in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse.<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;

County commission to decide direction for Yoder, HABIT sewer Wednesday

WICHITA, Kan. — Kansas Honor Flight Wichita is asking for donations in exchange for&nbsp; opportunities to win a Henry Lever Action Octagon Frontier Rifle. The suggested donation is $10 per ticket.

Only 250 total tickets available. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasHonorFlight.Wichita">Message them on Facebook for details</a>.

The Kansas Honor Flight volunteers work to honor Kansas veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War by providing them with an all expense paid three day trip to visit their memorials in Washington, D.C. 

The organization also works to educate the youth and communities throughout Kansas about the impact of these historic wars and the freedoms our nation enjoys because of the service of our veterans.

The trip cost is approximately $900 per veteran. There are about 500 Kansas Veterans waiting to go on this once in a lifetime trip.

<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/2023/4/1681389283067.png" alt="Kansas Honor Flight logo.png" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Honor Flight logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. — Kansas Honor Flight Wichita is asking for donations in exchange for&nbsp; opportunities to win a Henry Lever Action Octagon Frontier Rifle. The suggested donation is $10 per ticket.Only 250 total tickets available. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasHonorFlight.Wichita">Message them on Facebook for details</a>.The Kansas Honor Flight volunteers work to honor Kansas veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War by providing them with an all expense paid three day trip to visit their memorials in Washington, D.C. The organization also works to educate the youth and communities throughout Kansas about the impact of these historic wars and the freedoms our nation enjoys because of the service of our veterans.The trip cost is approximately $900 per veteran. There are about 500 Kansas Veterans waiting to go on this once in a lifetime trip.<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;

Kansas Honor Flight fundraiser ongoing

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards says that educational outcomes are improving, even if test scores are not.

"If you look at long-term measures, like the percentage of our population that graduates, goes on to post-secondary education and earns more as a result, we've continued to make improvements and, in fact, are at an all-time high. There's a lot of facts out there. I rarely find something that isn't true, but sometimes it isn't part of the whole picture or the whole context."

Researchers believe 70 to 75% of all future jobs will require a credential beyond high school.

"Societal needs have changed from an economy that was not particularly high skilled," Tallman said. "Basic literacy skills, basic math skills, for most kids, a high school diploma was all you needed. What was required for a high school diploma was less than we expect now. We've shifted to a world where most jobs require more than high school, require a higher level of literacy and math and a whole lot more social concerns over things like dealing with mental health and managing technology and managing a lot of issues that weren't there for older generations."

Learning loss connected with COVID-19 is something both public and private schools will be dealing with for years to come.

"Private schools generally perform about the same as public schools who have comparable student demographics," Tallman said. "In other words, if you have fewer kids with high needs, you tend to do better, public or private. Private schools also declined, the five major private school systems in Kansas, Catholic diocese, Lutheran schools, that are accredited, all have seen a decline in performance over the same time as public schools, all of which got worse during COVID."

Most recently, Kansas high school completion reached 91.8 percent, any college 66.8 percent, and four-year degrees or higher 34.5 percent.&nbsp;

<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/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="Mark Tallman Kansas Association of School Boards" />
 <figcaption>Mark Tallman Kansas Association of School Boards</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards says that educational outcomes are improving, even if test scores are not."If you look at long-term measures, like the percentage of our population that graduates, goes on to post-secondary education and earns more as a result, we've continued to make improvements and, in fact, are at an all-time high. There's a lot of facts out there. I rarely find something that isn't true, but sometimes it isn't part of the whole picture or the whole context."Researchers believe 70 to 75% of all future jobs will require a credential beyond high school."Societal needs have changed from an economy that was not particularly high skilled," Tallman said. "Basic literacy skills, basic math skills, for most kids, a high school diploma was all you needed. What was required for a high school diploma was less than we expect now. We've shifted to a world where most jobs require more than high school, require a higher level of literacy and math and a whole lot more social concerns over things like dealing with mental health and managing technology and managing a lot of issues that weren't there for older generations."Learning loss connected with COVID-19 is something both public and private schools will be dealing with for years to come."Private schools generally perform about the same as public schools who have comparable student demographics," Tallman said. "In other words, if you have fewer kids with high needs, you tend to do better, public or private. Private schools also declined, the five major private school systems in Kansas, Catholic diocese, Lutheran schools, that are accredited, all have seen a decline in performance over the same time as public schools, all of which got worse during COVID."Most recently, Kansas high school completion reached 91.8 percent, any college 66.8 percent, and four-year degrees or higher 34.5 percent.&nbsp;<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;

Tallman: Education is advancing, despite many challenges

For the first time in a long time, I won’t have to spend a Saturday defrosting an upright freezer in anticipation of the local meat processer calling to say our half steer is ready for pick up. Ideally this would have happened last fall, but I was really trading one hand-me-down freezer for another. And I’m a firm believer in beggars not being choosers. The old freezer should have been scrapped a long time ago. Instead, it lives on in my brother’s garage. When I say old, I really mean ancient. It originally resided in my childhood basement and then my parents’ garage before I somehow agreed to take possession of it about a decade ago. It’s kept everything cold all that time, usually by encapsulating anything on the top two shelves in varying layers of ice. Through some sort of magic, it’s replacement hasn’t developed the slightest hint of frost anywhere. Maybe it’s because the seal is fully intact. Or the auto defrost function is more than a marketing gimmick. Either way, when the locker calls, I won’t have to spend a day chipping out bundles of beef from a shelf. Hopefully the call comes sooner than later, too. We’re out of steaks and running low on hamburger and roast. I might actually have to cook the beef liver I haven’t exchanged for catfish yet. Soon the freezer will be fully stocked with all of that plus a couple of briskets, some flank steak for fajitas and short ribs for braising on a chilly Sunday afternoon. I’m looking forward to filling the freezer, but I’m not especially excited to get the bill this year. The processing fee shouldn’t be too bad, but the rancher’s cut for half a steer will be substantially more this year. This is one transaction that’s non-negotiable for me. The rancher knows the value of the steer, even in times where the number is not much higher than breakeven. Beef eaters have had a couple of years with decent prices. Now we’re going to see the other side of the market because drought has culled the cattle herd to its lowest level in about a decade. Provided demand doesn’t fall off too much, fewer cattle means less beef at higher prices. The contraction didn’t start overnight, and it won’t end quickly. Higher prices will provide plenty of incentive to rebuild the nation’s cattle herd, but that won’t start until ranchers begin retaining heifers, which will eventually have calves of their own. Unlike a new freezer, there’s no magical solution to grow cattle faster. It’s not fun, but the market will eventually sort everything out. It will rain again. Ponds will refill and pastures will recover. Ranchers will restock.

I might grumble some when I get the final tally in a couple of weeks, but I can’t imagine any alternative. It’s a privilege to only fill a freezer once a year, and the convenience is still well worth the price. "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/2019/11/1574694551876.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Doering, Kansas Farm BureauFor the first time in a long time, I won’t have to spend a Saturday defrosting an upright freezer in anticipation of the local meat processer calling to say our half steer is ready for pick up. Ideally this would have happened last fall, but I was really trading one hand-me-down freezer for another. And I’m a firm believer in beggars not being choosers. The old freezer should have been scrapped a long time ago. Instead, it lives on in my brother’s garage. When I say old, I really mean ancient. It originally resided in my childhood basement and then my parents’ garage before I somehow agreed to take possession of it about a decade ago. It’s kept everything cold all that time, usually by encapsulating anything on the top two shelves in varying layers of ice. Through some sort of magic, it’s replacement hasn’t developed the slightest hint of frost anywhere. Maybe it’s because the seal is fully intact. Or the auto defrost function is more than a marketing gimmick. Either way, when the locker calls, I won’t have to spend a day chipping out bundles of beef from a shelf. Hopefully the call comes sooner than later, too. We’re out of steaks and running low on hamburger and roast. I might actually have to cook the beef liver I haven’t exchanged for catfish yet. Soon the freezer will be fully stocked with all of that plus a couple of briskets, some flank steak for fajitas and short ribs for braising on a chilly Sunday afternoon. I’m looking forward to filling the freezer, but I’m not especially excited to get the bill this year. The processing fee shouldn’t be too bad, but the rancher’s cut for half a steer will be substantially more this year. This is one transaction that’s non-negotiable for me. The rancher knows the value of the steer, even in times where the number is not much higher than breakeven. Beef eaters have had a couple of years with decent prices. Now we’re going to see the other side of the market because drought has culled the cattle herd to its lowest level in about a decade. Provided demand doesn’t fall off too much, fewer cattle means less beef at higher prices. The contraction didn’t start overnight, and it won’t end quickly. Higher prices will provide plenty of incentive to rebuild the nation’s cattle herd, but that won’t start until ranchers begin retaining heifers, which will eventually have calves of their own. Unlike a new freezer, there’s no magical solution to grow cattle faster. It’s not fun, but the market will eventually sort everything out. It will rain again. Ponds will refill and pastures will recover. Ranchers will restock. I might grumble some when I get the final tally in a couple of weeks, but I can’t imagine any alternative. It’s a privilege to only fill a freezer once a year, and the convenience is still well worth the price. "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;<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;

Insight: Filling a Freezer

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;

8/22/2023 2:10 AM-Jerlene	Lenay Oliver-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance

8/21/2023 11:33 PM-Charles	Arthur Garrett-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Failure to Appear

8/21/2023 7:18 PM-Patrick	Kasey Gandy-Failure to Appear

8/21/2023 5:47 PM-Joshua	Jerome Goetz-Failure to Appear

8/21/2023 4:14 PM-Adam	Scott McConnell-Probation Violation

8/21/2023 2:21 PM-Allen	Raymond Robinson-Rape; Overcome by Force or Fear

8/21/2023 11:38 AM-Cory	Joshua Perry-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

8/21/2023 11:32 AM-Edward	Everett King Jr.-Probation Violation

<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;8/22/2023 2:10 AM-Jerlene	Lenay Oliver-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance8/21/2023 11:33 PM-Charles	Arthur Garrett-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Failure to Appear8/21/2023 7:18 PM-Patrick	Kasey Gandy-Failure to Appear8/21/2023 5:47 PM-Joshua	Jerome Goetz-Failure to Appear8/21/2023 4:14 PM-Adam	Scott McConnell-Probation Violation8/21/2023 2:21 PM-Allen	Raymond Robinson-Rape; Overcome by Force or Fear8/21/2023 11:38 AM-Cory	Joshua Perry-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv8/21/2023 11:32 AM-Edward	Everett King Jr.-Probation Violation

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Canton public water supply system located in McPherson County.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

The advisory took effect on August 21, 2023 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 620-628-4916, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjEuODE0Mzk5NjEifQ.vQK9IiqcTBiymdn1AFfZ-9alC3O04qoUcFirNHuRpoU/s/1305944069/br/224590838358-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595873466130.jpeg" alt="boil water advisory.jpg" />
 <figcaption>boil water advisory.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Canton public water supply system located in McPherson County.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:<ul>
 <li>Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.</li><li>Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.</li><li>If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.</li><li>Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.</li><li>Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.</li>
 </ul>The advisory took effect on August 21, 2023 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 620-628-4916, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtkaGUua3MuZ292LzQ2OC9Db25zdW1lci1JbmZvcm1hdGlvbi1SZWdhcmRpbmctYS1EaXNydXB0P3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjEuODE0Mzk5NjEifQ.vQK9IiqcTBiymdn1AFfZ-9alC3O04qoUcFirNHuRpoU/s/1305944069/br/224590838358-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.<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;

Canton under boil water advisory

PRATT COUNTY—Three drivers avoided serious injury following an accident that just occurred just after 7:30 a.m. Monday in Pratt County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Kia Sorento driven by Macaiden Sky&nbsp;Dwyre, 17, Pratt, was westbound on U.S. 54 just west of River Road.

The Kia rear-ended a 2018 Dodge Journey driven by Ruth Hoeme&nbsp;McFarland, 54, Pratt, that has slowed for other traffic. The impact sent the Dodge into the rear bumper of a 2011 Chevy Silverado driven by Ashley Reed&nbsp;Spease, 16, Pratt.

&nbsp;Occupants of all three vehicles were checked by Pratt Co EMS and refused transport. Dwyre's parents transported her in a private vehicle to Pratt Regional Medical Center. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692220044286.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY—Three drivers avoided serious injury following an accident that just occurred just after 7:30 a.m. Monday in Pratt County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Kia Sorento driven by Macaiden Sky&nbsp;Dwyre, 17, Pratt, was westbound on U.S. 54 just west of River Road.The Kia rear-ended a 2018 Dodge Journey driven by Ruth Hoeme&nbsp;McFarland, 54, Pratt, that has slowed for other traffic. The impact sent the Dodge into the rear bumper of a 2011 Chevy Silverado driven by Ashley Reed&nbsp;Spease, 16, Pratt.&nbsp;Occupants of all three vehicles were checked by Pratt Co EMS and refused transport. Dwyre's parents transported her in a private vehicle to Pratt Regional Medical Center. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.<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;

Teen driver avoids serious injury after 3-vehicle crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners will take up the choice of a new county newspaper at their meeting on Wednesday. 

There are ongoing questions regarding the legal status of the Rural Messenger and its status with the Postal Service as of when the agenda was released to commissioners.

At their last meeting, Nancy Stucky with the Ninnescah Valley News raised questions about the overall process, after the commission allowed the Rural Messenger to match her price, which is not how they normally handle requests for proposal.

Commissioners understood Stucky's point, and furthermore, chair Daniel Friesen raised the question of why counties have to have a designated newspaper at all, since cities are able to opt out of that through home rule statute.

With that in mind, the draft resolution in the agenda packet names&nbsp; the Ninnescah Valley News as the county's official paper, but it is still up to the Commission if that is the direction they vote in on Wednesday.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683648162626.jpeg" alt="Reno County Commission 2-Photo by Sandra Milburn" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Commission 2-Photo by Sandra Milburn</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners will take up the choice of a new county newspaper at their meeting on Wednesday. There are ongoing questions regarding the legal status of the Rural Messenger and its status with the Postal Service as of when the agenda was released to commissioners.At their last meeting, Nancy Stucky with the Ninnescah Valley News raised questions about the overall process, after the commission allowed the Rural Messenger to match her price, which is not how they normally handle requests for proposal.Commissioners understood Stucky's point, and furthermore, chair Daniel Friesen raised the question of why counties have to have a designated newspaper at all, since cities are able to opt out of that through home rule statute.With that in mind, the draft resolution in the agenda packet names&nbsp; the Ninnescah Valley News as the county's official paper, but it is still up to the Commission if that is the direction they vote in on Wednesday.The Board of County Commissioners meets Wednesday at 9 a.m. in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse.<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;

Commissioners to make newspaper choice Wednesday

RENO COUNTY — According to a post from Reno County Emergency Management, on Saturday, over 50 firefighters, representing all 8 rural fire districts, Hutchinson Fire Department, and the Kansas Forest Service&nbsp; participated in drip torch training. 

 Those firefighters conducted small controlled burns North of Pretty Prairie, practicing their drip torch techniques.  The firefighters use this skill to help control wildfires. 

The county asked citizens to thank your firefighters and their families who gave up their Saturday to participate in this training.  Their dedication and skills will help keep Reno County safe during the impending fire season.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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/2023/8/1692608822537.jpeg" alt="Rural Firefighters from across Reno County participated in drip training on Saturday, August 19, 2023-Photo Courtesy Reno County Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Rural Firefighters from across Reno County participated in drip training on Saturday, August 19, 2023-Photo Courtesy Reno County Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — According to a post from Reno County Emergency Management, on Saturday, over 50 firefighters, representing all 8 rural fire districts, Hutchinson Fire Department, and the Kansas Forest Service&nbsp; participated in drip torch training. Those firefighters conducted small controlled burns North of Pretty Prairie, practicing their drip torch techniques. The firefighters use this skill to help control wildfires. The county asked citizens to thank your firefighters and their families who gave up their Saturday to participate in this training. Their dedication and skills will help keep Reno County safe during the impending fire season.&nbsp;&nbsp;<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;

Rural firefighters train Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 will get several upgrades to its facilities after passing a $7.6 million bond this past spring. Some work in the school has started.

"We had already committed to beginning on the science rooms previously," said Superintendent Curtis Nightingale. "We were going to come out of capital outlay for that. That work has begun. I was actually in a construction meeting on Wednesday. They are cooking right through that. Our bonds should sell, and then we'll begin moving forward with the preliminary plans and getting drawings finalized and all that to get rolling. They are trying to time that, so they can do major work during the school breaks, so as to disrupt class as little as possible."

According to the district's&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTNcvr5J1EibnPbbMRbWCDZ8nZqtoYv9r8RqMp0Y_3qxsKuwpRGgngN_OWw0-IXAL0qoQCM5bbrn9yg/pub">bond project FAQ</a>, there are several items to address in addition to the science room work. The bond sale is supposed to happen this week.

Many of the current roofs have passed their lifespan and some are beginning to leak. The district plans to commit the necessary resources to get back to a manageable maintenance position on all the roofs to begin a systematic renovation or replacement on a fiscal timeline versus responding out of necessity each year.

School security has become a critical issue in recent years. Beyond the obvious need to keep students and staff safe, the negative impact this can have on student learning, staff morale, and the public perception of a district when not addressed is of paramount importance.

The district plans to focus on specific areas:

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96x2tO9Xuxw">Applying 3M Security Film to all perimeter doors at each facility.&nbsp;</a>

The construction of an additional set of vestibule doors at three of the campuses will provide another layer of security to district buildings. This will allow staff to further determine the reason for the visit. The fourth campus will have its main entry relocated to provide a more visible entry to office staff.

Currently, once buzzed into the building, visitors have free-run. Staff has no way to control their movement. The secondary set of vestibule doors, creating a vestibule, can help to control this.

Secure Entrance - Construct a secondary set of doors to close off the current entryway in front of the office to control building access upon entry.

Renovate/Upgrade Restrooms - Renovating the two restrooms adjacent to the auditorium will give the district the opportunity to upgrade them for ADA accessibility, while also improving public access during events in the building.

Enlarge Auditorium Lobby - Extend the current auditorium lobby out under the existing overhang to provide more space for gathering following performances and events.

Auditorium and Stage Renovations - Not having had a renovation in decades, the auditorium is in need of work. The plan is to expand the usable space on the stage, update and improve curtains, lighting, and sound, update auditorium seating to include ADA-accessible seats, and add a chair lift to the stage, as well as other aesthetic improvements such as paint, carpet, and window treatments.

Secure Entrance - Move the existing entrance over to the line of sight of the front office, closing off the existing one.

Renovate ADA Restrooms in the K/PreK - The current facilities are not adequate in space or type. This would allow students and staff to use those facilities as intended without having to seek out a different restroom in another part of the building.

Renovate Existing Restrooms to ADA Compliance - Student restrooms on either end of the building will be brought up to current ADA accessibility requirements.

Replace Exterior Windows on the North and West Sides - Replace drafty and leaking windows with energy-efficient windows.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628266388485.jpeg" alt="USD 309" />
 <figcaption>USD 309</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 will get several upgrades to its facilities after passing a $7.6 million bond this past spring. Some work in the school has started."We had already committed to beginning on the science rooms previously," said Superintendent Curtis Nightingale. "We were going to come out of capital outlay for that. That work has begun. I was actually in a construction meeting on Wednesday. They are cooking right through that. Our bonds should sell, and then we'll begin moving forward with the preliminary plans and getting drawings finalized and all that to get rolling. They are trying to time that, so they can do major work during the school breaks, so as to disrupt class as little as possible."According to the district's&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vTNcvr5J1EibnPbbMRbWCDZ8nZqtoYv9r8RqMp0Y_3qxsKuwpRGgngN_OWw0-IXAL0qoQCM5bbrn9yg/pub">bond project FAQ</a>, there are several items to address in addition to the science room work. The bond sale is supposed to happen this week.RoofingMany of the current roofs have passed their lifespan and some are beginning to leak. The district plans to commit the necessary resources to get back to a manageable maintenance position on all the roofs to begin a systematic renovation or replacement on a fiscal timeline versus responding out of necessity each year.Improving Secured EntrancesSchool security has become a critical issue in recent years. Beyond the obvious need to keep students and staff safe, the negative impact this can have on student learning, staff morale, and the public perception of a district when not addressed is of paramount importance.The district plans to focus on specific areas:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=96x2tO9Xuxw">Applying 3M Security Film to all perimeter doors at each facility.&nbsp;</a>The construction of an additional set of vestibule doors at three of the campuses will provide another layer of security to district buildings. This will allow staff to further determine the reason for the visit. The fourth campus will have its main entry relocated to provide a more visible entry to office staff.Currently, once buzzed into the building, visitors have free-run. Staff has no way to control their movement. The secondary set of vestibule doors, creating a vestibule, can help to control this.Nickerson High SchoolSecure Entrance - Construct a secondary set of doors to close off the current entryway in front of the office to control building access upon entry.Renovate/Upgrade Restrooms - Renovating the two restrooms adjacent to the auditorium will give the district the opportunity to upgrade them for ADA accessibility, while also improving public access during events in the building.Enlarge Auditorium Lobby - Extend the current auditorium lobby out under the existing overhang to provide more space for gathering following performances and events.Auditorium and Stage Renovations - Not having had a renovation in decades, the auditorium is in need of work. The plan is to expand the usable space on the stage, update and improve curtains, lighting, and sound, update auditorium seating to include ADA-accessible seats, and add a chair lift to the stage, as well as other aesthetic improvements such as paint, carpet, and window treatments.Nickerson Elementary SchoolSecure Entrance - Move the existing entrance over to the line of sight of the front office, closing off the existing one.Renovate ADA Restrooms in the K/PreK - The current facilities are not adequate in space or type. This would allow students and staff to use those facilities as intended without having to seek out a different restroom in another part of the building.Reno Valley Middle SchoolSecure Entrance - Construct a secondary set of doors to close off the current entryway in front of the office to control building access upon entry.Renovate Existing Restrooms to ADA Compliance - Student restrooms on either end of the building will be brought up to current ADA accessibility requirements.Replace Exterior Windows on the North and West Sides - Replace drafty and leaking windows with energy-efficient windows.South Hutchinson Elementary SchoolSecure Entrance - Construct a secondary set of doors to close off the entryway in front of the office to control building access upon entry.Two New Classrooms with ADA Accessible Restrooms - The addition of two new classrooms on the east side of the building will provide the ability to move students currently housed outside in the modular buildings into the main building.The bond will cost an additional $9.99 per month on a $100,000 home.&nbsp;<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;