HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Center is hosting an event with Newton artist Glen Ediger this weekend.

"In our Main Gallery, that will take place at 2 p.m., this Sunday, January 8," said Jace Chambers with the Center. "It's free admission and open to the public. For those who may not be able to come in person, although I highly recommend it, because that's how you get to ask your questions and really see the art making process and examples he brings with him. We'll also have it on our Facebook page as a video as well for later viewing, as well, for virtual viewing."

"It's a process heavy art form," Chambers said. "He takes either salvaged wood or salvaged metal, oftentimes from either salvage yards or demo sites. He places materials, either industrial things like rope, metal coils, coffee cans, things like that, or completely organic, we're talking leaves, sticks, that kind of thing, he leaves them on this panel. He weighs them down so they stay in place with heavy objects and then he lets mother nature just have at it."

Since so much is left to the elements, it really is a collaboration between the conditions and the artist.

"They are super interesting to look at," Chambers said. "There are some amazing impressions that he's gotten. He and I both, we've discussed how it happened, because the truth is, he doesn't always know, either. It's really, really fun work. I'm excited to learn more about his process and his decision making."

Ediger's exhibit is at the Art Center through Jan. 16.

<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/2023/1/1673023402594.jpeg" alt="Art by Glen Ediger" />
 <figcaption>Art by Glen Ediger</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Center is hosting an event with Newton artist Glen Ediger this weekend."In our Main Gallery, that will take place at 2 p.m., this Sunday, January 8," said Jace Chambers with the Center. "It's free admission and open to the public. For those who may not be able to come in person, although I highly recommend it, because that's how you get to ask your questions and really see the art making process and examples he brings with him. We'll also have it on our Facebook page as a video as well for later viewing, as well, for virtual viewing."Ediger's approach is unconventional."It's a process heavy art form," Chambers said. "He takes either salvaged wood or salvaged metal, oftentimes from either salvage yards or demo sites. He places materials, either industrial things like rope, metal coils, coffee cans, things like that, or completely organic, we're talking leaves, sticks, that kind of thing, he leaves them on this panel. He weighs them down so they stay in place with heavy objects and then he lets mother nature just have at it."Since so much is left to the elements, it really is a collaboration between the conditions and the artist."They are super interesting to look at," Chambers said. "There are some amazing impressions that he's gotten. He and I both, we've discussed how it happened, because the truth is, he doesn't always know, either. It's really, really fun work. I'm excited to learn more about his process and his decision making."Ediger's exhibit is at the Art Center through Jan. 16.<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;

Ediger talks art in Hutch 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The American Red Cross South Central and Southeast Kansas Chapter needs your help in 2023 and asks that you to consider making a New Year’s resolution to become a volunteer.

"Each year nationally, we respond to over 60,000 disasters," said Shannon Wedge with the American Red Cross. "Many times, it's the tornadoes and the hurricanes and the floods, on the east coast, west coast, wherever, that make the headlines, but it's those single family fires that don't make the headlines many times. That's truly what we are responding to."

<a href="https://www.redcross.org/volunteer/disaster-action-team.html">Disaster Action Team members</a>&nbsp;sign up for on-call shifts as part of a team to help provide 24-hour emergency response to local disasters, ensuring that your neighbors have access to resources for necessities such food, shelter and clothing. There are acute needs in the Kingman area, Kingman County and Hutchinson.

"Just this last fiscal year, we responded in Kansas to over 800 disasters," Wedge said. "Most of those were home fires. We also had a couple of larger scale disasters, the Andover/East Wichita tornado, you also had wildfires here in Reno County. We actually were partnering with many of the agencies here in Reno County to provide comfort and care to those individuals, as well."

<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeKWqK0d42RwXGrVrU51kcl3BL50O8wEDUouSmTYlzMwo9SKh6opX3p2Pfost-2BhuP7aeXdq9ObPJ1M5NwnFYYEC0D0Tv_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3MCOwQYl1jPMymjt8F65hsMojNt2ZOzLLOTEF8OOBlH6DG36BVS0kNp9wt-2F215-2BRQnrRlGohjMgymlIfo-2FL4QkycuN9fFJkW78XVT8HShEsQRjyM7oL3Wyd5rzQw36SDiVqotNwaS7LNKCGbzCIRyKB0o34miBv05asNbSrisWlG0b6VEnXOa6F0KzzAE9vqWfkRPWAsYmN7xRZcva1EvIYHLWM8XqkUIICqdQCj-2BYYEs-3D" target="_blank">Blood Donor Ambassadors</a>&nbsp;engage with blood donors at blood drives by greeting, registering, answering questions, providing information and supporting them through the recovery process at the refreshments table. The highest need is in Wichita and Hutchinson.

"We are a very volunteer driven agency," Wedge said. "90% of our workforce is comprised of volunteers. We always need people to come out and volunteer. We need responders here in Reno County and throughout the state and the country that will go on scene to provide that comfort and care."&nbsp; 

Training is free, but the hope you provide as a Red Cross volunteer can't be calculated.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeJImCOqpc8ZsN9z8fFL4WyENUsb1GBMCKK-2Bnu-2FEuGOM08z83swKyUiXn-2BNR6QEnwnMZ4nxvQ0qL2zGMz2bvCB5ZYR5t_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3MCOwQYl1jPMymjt8F65hsMojNt2ZOzLLOTEF8OOBlH6DG36BVS0kNp9wt-2F215-2BRQnrRlGohjMgymlIfo-2FL4QkyZ0T-2BHIKRGogEI6D-2B9bMzSN3U8uFXotvdR81VHgwJnJF5Okokca0z0yM-2FQ6B40obEE5VXi1uT7LO5rt-2FrJ2ksoTe8F8VBEFmWD0FLFS15c3w5j1KNAEBLHuICDHiObDXnOn0H-2BopwrAoq2AYJ8idVNU-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/volunteertoday</a>&nbsp;to get started.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673019634320.png" alt="Graphic newsletter - disaster volunteers.png" />
 <figcaption>Graphic newsletter - disaster volunteers.png</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The American Red Cross South Central and Southeast Kansas Chapter needs your help in 2023 and asks that you to consider making a New Year’s resolution to become a volunteer."Each year nationally, we respond to over 60,000 disasters," said Shannon Wedge with the American Red Cross. "Many times, it's the tornadoes and the hurricanes and the floods, on the east coast, west coast, wherever, that make the headlines, but it's those single family fires that don't make the headlines many times. That's truly what we are responding to."<a href="https://www.redcross.org/volunteer/disaster-action-team.html">Disaster Action Team members</a>&nbsp;sign up for on-call shifts as part of a team to help provide 24-hour emergency response to local disasters, ensuring that your neighbors have access to resources for necessities such food, shelter and clothing. There are acute needs in the Kingman area, Kingman County and Hutchinson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673019687360.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Just this last fiscal year, we responded in Kansas to over 800 disasters," Wedge said. "Most of those were home fires. We also had a couple of larger scale disasters, the Andover/East Wichita tornado, you also had wildfires here in Reno County. We actually were partnering with many of the agencies here in Reno County to provide comfort and care to those individuals, as well."<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeKWqK0d42RwXGrVrU51kcl3BL50O8wEDUouSmTYlzMwo9SKh6opX3p2Pfost-2BhuP7aeXdq9ObPJ1M5NwnFYYEC0D0Tv_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3MCOwQYl1jPMymjt8F65hsMojNt2ZOzLLOTEF8OOBlH6DG36BVS0kNp9wt-2F215-2BRQnrRlGohjMgymlIfo-2FL4QkycuN9fFJkW78XVT8HShEsQRjyM7oL3Wyd5rzQw36SDiVqotNwaS7LNKCGbzCIRyKB0o34miBv05asNbSrisWlG0b6VEnXOa6F0KzzAE9vqWfkRPWAsYmN7xRZcva1EvIYHLWM8XqkUIICqdQCj-2BYYEs-3D" target="_blank">Blood Donor Ambassadors</a>&nbsp;engage with blood donors at blood drives by greeting, registering, answering questions, providing information and supporting them through the recovery process at the refreshments table. The highest need is in Wichita and Hutchinson."We are a very volunteer driven agency," Wedge said. "90% of our workforce is comprised of volunteers. We always need people to come out and volunteer. We need responders here in Reno County and throughout the state and the country that will go on scene to provide that comfort and care."&nbsp; Training is free, but the hope you provide as a Red Cross volunteer can't be calculated.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeJImCOqpc8ZsN9z8fFL4WyENUsb1GBMCKK-2Bnu-2FEuGOM08z83swKyUiXn-2BNR6QEnwnMZ4nxvQ0qL2zGMz2bvCB5ZYR5t_yHCAJhxBSlmhUj2HvORGwYcX8uUmG4vjl74mPbPdjrJ-2Bdvv3VyiWRMYtsGAu4Z48wRrO3I5eQFXDyRldas-2BMEFdJ0FgGHJbznw71TxVjIA7E871Te-2BpKdLr524QRUc3MCOwQYl1jPMymjt8F65hsMojNt2ZOzLLOTEF8OOBlH6DG36BVS0kNp9wt-2F215-2BRQnrRlGohjMgymlIfo-2FL4QkyZ0T-2BHIKRGogEI6D-2B9bMzSN3U8uFXotvdR81VHgwJnJF5Okokca0z0yM-2FQ6B40obEE5VXi1uT7LO5rt-2FrJ2ksoTe8F8VBEFmWD0FLFS15c3w5j1KNAEBLHuICDHiObDXnOn0H-2BopwrAoq2AYJ8idVNU-3D" target="_blank">redcross.org/volunteertoday</a>&nbsp;to get started.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Red Cross badly needs volunteers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education will look at the purchase of a minivan and a separate 10 passenger van as part of its meeting on Monday.

Allen Samuels of Hutchinson was the winner in both bids, as they were allowed to match Midway Motors price on the minivan at $38,615 and were the outright low bidder on the 10-passenger van at $71,347.

The minivan will be at the administrative center for use and the ten passenger van will be used for activity, field trip and sporting event travel.

The USD 308 Board of Education will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. Monday, January 9, 2023, at the USD 308 Admin Center located at 1520 N Plum Street.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education will look at the purchase of a minivan and a separate 10 passenger van as part of its meeting on Monday.Allen Samuels of Hutchinson was the winner in both bids, as they were allowed to match Midway Motors price on the minivan at $38,615 and were the outright low bidder on the 10-passenger van at $71,347.The minivan will be at the administrative center for use and the ten passenger van will be used for activity, field trip and sporting event travel.The USD 308 Board of Education will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:00 p.m. Monday, January 9, 2023, at the USD 308 Admin Center located at 1520 N Plum Street.<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;

Vans on USD 308 board agenda

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Central Christian School announced its honor roll for the 1st semester on Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627664196634.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Central Christian School announced its honor roll for the 1st semester on Friday.Below is the High School Honor Roll<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673014852663.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Below is the Middle School Honor Roll:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673014891943.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

CCS announces honor roll

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As part of the Board of County Commissioners agenda on Monday, they will discuss bids for the courthouse roof project.

In mid-December the county received bids for the courthouse roof project and courthouse space renovation project that were both authorized by the commission to send out to bids on October 11, 2022. 

Both bid openings resulted in significantly higher than GLMV’s estimates. Staff has worked with GLMV to determine whether the specs need to be modified and possibly rebid.

The roof bid was estimated to be between $110,000-$140,000, which is around $16-20 per square foot.

The lowest bid was $500,419.02, approximately $50 per square foot. There were no local bids. Reno County has the cash reserves to pay for this high-cost bid, but instead of doing this, staff recommends GLMV to modify the spec sheets and rebid the project.

Brad with GLMV reached out to a Wichita roofer (not a bidder) to see if there might be a reason for the high bids. Brad found that the roofing industry is volatile, and they experienced 25% inflation in the past month. Other reasons for high bids might include roofers busy with other projects, so the timing might not be the best. Brad estimates that basic roofing projects that are not as complex as the courthouse are coming in around $20 per square foot.

Staff is recommending that the project be rebid, but commissioners need to approve that. They will meet Monday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671731649549.jpeg" alt="Reno county square" />
 <figcaption>Reno county square</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As part of the Board of County Commissioners agenda on Monday, they will discuss bids for the courthouse roof project.In mid-December the county received bids for the courthouse roof project and courthouse space renovation project that were both authorized by the commission to send out to bids on October 11, 2022. Both bid openings resulted in significantly higher than GLMV’s estimates. Staff has worked with GLMV to determine whether the specs need to be modified and possibly rebid.The roof bid was estimated to be between $110,000-$140,000, which is around $16-20 per square foot.The lowest bid was $500,419.02, approximately $50 per square foot. There were no local bids. Reno County has the cash reserves to pay for this high-cost bid, but instead of doing this, staff recommends GLMV to modify the spec sheets and rebid the project.Brad with GLMV reached out to a Wichita roofer (not a bidder) to see if there might be a reason for the high bids. Brad found that the roofing industry is volatile, and they experienced 25% inflation in the past month. Other reasons for high bids might include roofers busy with other projects, so the timing might not be the best. Brad estimates that basic roofing projects that are not as complex as the courthouse are coming in around $20 per square foot.Staff is recommending that the project be rebid, but commissioners need to approve that. They will meet Monday at 9 a.m. at the Reno County Annex.<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;

Board of County Commissioners likely to deny courthouse roof bids

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Anthony “Tony” Finlay, executive director of the Hutchinson Recreation Commission, will join Cosmosphere’s Foundation Board beginning in January. Finlay and his wife, Andrea, own and operate Harley’s Bicycles in downtown Hutchinson.

"I believe in the importance of giving back to my community," said Finlay.

Finlay has held leadership positions for Young Professionals of Reno County, Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce, Visit Hutch, Leadership Reno County and the Hutchinson Housing Commission. He is currently Chairperson of Public Policy for the Kansas Recreation &amp; Park Association and recently served as President of the Rotary Club of Hutchinson.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Parks &amp; Recreation Management from Fort Hays State University and is a Certified Parks &amp; Recreation Professional. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673014481883.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Anthony “Tony” Finlay, executive director of the Hutchinson Recreation Commission, will join Cosmosphere’s Foundation Board beginning in January. Finlay and his wife, Andrea, own and operate Harley’s Bicycles in downtown Hutchinson."I believe in the importance of giving back to my community," said Finlay.Finlay has held leadership positions for Young Professionals of Reno County, Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce, Visit Hutch, Leadership Reno County and the Hutchinson Housing Commission. He is currently Chairperson of Public Policy for the Kansas Recreation &amp; Park Association and recently served as President of the Rotary Club of Hutchinson.He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Parks &amp; Recreation Management from Fort Hays State University and is a Certified Parks &amp; Recreation Professional. <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;

Finlay joins Cosmosphere Foundation Board

WICHITA, Kan. —Wichita State University's Center for Economic Development and Business Research has released an updated Kansas Employment Forecast.

Uncertainty about an economic recession and inflation expectations has plagued the U.S. economy in 2022. The Bureau of Economic Analysis's preliminary estimates of Gross Domestic Product indicated significant declines, which sparked concerns about a recession. Those estimates have been revised upward but still, show losses. The third quarter estimates, however, have a significant rebound in the economy of 3.2%. An alternative measure of the economy that the Center has recently followed more closely is Gross Domestic Income (GDI). It too has a small decline in the first half of the year with a strong rebound in the third quarter. Based on these two estimates, the U.S. economy was on shaky ground in the first half of 2022 as it dealt with the fallout of the Russian invasion, increased energy prices, and residual COVID effects.

Unlike the nation, Kansas's economy grew in the first quarter of 2022 by 2.6% at an annualized rate due to agriculture, manufacturing, and management of companies. The state declined in the second quarter and rebounded in the third quarter with an annualized growth rate of 1.9%. Agriculture and manufacturing remain the stabilizing forces in Kansas.

In 2021, Kansas' employment grew by 1.1%, adding over 14,717 jobs, which is considered strong growth. In the first half of 2022, however, Kansas added 17,400 jobs as firms fiercely competed for labor. As a result of the tightening labor market and the deliberate slowdown of the U.S., the Center's forecast is for employment growth to slow down to 0.6% in 2023.

The majority of expected growth for Kansas in 2023 is within the production sectors, increasing 1.3% and adding 3,220 jobs. The natural resources, mining, and construction sector is projected to have the second-highest growth in employment, expanding by 1.2%. The durables manufacturing industry is forecast to grow the fastest with 2.2%, which is driven by the aerospace industry and multiple plant locations and expansions. Non-durable manufacturing is expected to moderate in 2023 and 2024 after several years of robust growth.

Trade, transportation, and utility employment are forecast to expand 0.3%, increasing by 545 jobs. The slowing growth within this industry is driven primarily by the persistent inflation eroding household purchasing power and its effects on the retail subsector. The transportation, warehousing, and logistics portion of the industry had mixed market conditions. Within Kansas, the sub-sector expanded but had several setbacks to global supply chain issues.

The service sectors are projected to account for 42% of all job growth in Kansas in 2023, adding more than 3,700 jobs and increasing by 0.6%. Professional and business services are expected to rise the most within the services industry, with 1.5% in 2023 and 1.6% in 2024. On the other hand, financial activities are anticipated to decline by 3.1% in 2022 as the sector struggles to retain employees within the tight labor market.

The household labor market conditions remain robust as employers continue adding jobs throughout 2022. Labor force is anticipated to expand by 0.3% in 2023 as firms continue to post more job openings. The growth will put further pressure on the market and will likely decrease unemployment over the next two years.

The value of production of all goods and services within Kansas increased by 2.9% in 2021. Although there was a second-quarter decline, the state is expected to continue its recovery with a total growth of 2.4% in 2022. The growth momentum is expected to continue in the following two years, with an increase of 2.2% and 2.6%. Growth sectors include manufacturing, mining, transportation, and management of companies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673006151808.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. —Wichita State University's Center for Economic Development and Business Research has released an updated Kansas Employment Forecast.Uncertainty about an economic recession and inflation expectations has plagued the U.S. economy in 2022. The Bureau of Economic Analysis's preliminary estimates of Gross Domestic Product indicated significant declines, which sparked concerns about a recession. Those estimates have been revised upward but still, show losses. The third quarter estimates, however, have a significant rebound in the economy of 3.2%. An alternative measure of the economy that the Center has recently followed more closely is Gross Domestic Income (GDI). It too has a small decline in the first half of the year with a strong rebound in the third quarter. Based on these two estimates, the U.S. economy was on shaky ground in the first half of 2022 as it dealt with the fallout of the Russian invasion, increased energy prices, and residual COVID effects.Unlike the nation, Kansas's economy grew in the first quarter of 2022 by 2.6% at an annualized rate due to agriculture, manufacturing, and management of companies. The state declined in the second quarter and rebounded in the third quarter with an annualized growth rate of 1.9%. Agriculture and manufacturing remain the stabilizing forces in Kansas.In 2021, Kansas' employment grew by 1.1%, adding over 14,717 jobs, which is considered strong growth. In the first half of 2022, however, Kansas added 17,400 jobs as firms fiercely competed for labor. As a result of the tightening labor market and the deliberate slowdown of the U.S., the Center's forecast is for employment growth to slow down to 0.6% in 2023.The majority of expected growth for Kansas in 2023 is within the production sectors, increasing 1.3% and adding 3,220 jobs. The natural resources, mining, and construction sector is projected to have the second-highest growth in employment, expanding by 1.2%. The durables manufacturing industry is forecast to grow the fastest with 2.2%, which is driven by the aerospace industry and multiple plant locations and expansions. Non-durable manufacturing is expected to moderate in 2023 and 2024 after several years of robust growth.Trade, transportation, and utility employment are forecast to expand 0.3%, increasing by 545 jobs. The slowing growth within this industry is driven primarily by the persistent inflation eroding household purchasing power and its effects on the retail subsector. The transportation, warehousing, and logistics portion of the industry had mixed market conditions. Within Kansas, the sub-sector expanded but had several setbacks to global supply chain issues.The service sectors are projected to account for 42% of all job growth in Kansas in 2023, adding more than 3,700 jobs and increasing by 0.6%. Professional and business services are expected to rise the most within the services industry, with 1.5% in 2023 and 1.6% in 2024. On the other hand, financial activities are anticipated to decline by 3.1% in 2022 as the sector struggles to retain employees within the tight labor market.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673006229645.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The household labor market conditions remain robust as employers continue adding jobs throughout 2022. Labor force is anticipated to expand by 0.3% in 2023 as firms continue to post more job openings. The growth will put further pressure on the market and will likely decrease unemployment over the next two years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673006269405.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The value of production of all goods and services within Kansas increased by 2.9% in 2021. Although there was a second-quarter decline, the state is expected to continue its recovery with a total growth of 2.4% in 2022. The growth momentum is expected to continue in the following two years, with an increase of 2.2% and 2.6%. Growth sectors include manufacturing, mining, transportation, and management of companies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673006306621.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><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;

WSU says employment will tighten

Editor's note: A clarification on the next points in the process has been added to this story.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Eligible Republican committee members from the new Reno County Commission District 4 voted Thursday evening to elect John Whitesel to the seat being vacated by Mark Reese.

According to Republican Party Chair Ryan Patton, Whitesel received nine of the 17 eligible votes with Ron Pauls receiving eight votes.&nbsp;

Whitesel joins Don Bogner as the members from the newly created commission districts. Randy Parks is the replacement in District 1 for Ron Sellers.

All five commission members are Republicans. The new members of the commission are scheduled to be sworn in Monday, Jan. 9 at 10 a.m.

Patton clarified that Whitesel's name will be sent to the Governor's office for her official appointment on Friday, but with the run up to the legislative session, it's not clear if the official appointment paperwork will be complete by Monday morning.

<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/2020/9/1601389382742.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Editor's note: A clarification on the next points in the process has been added to this story.HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Eligible Republican committee members from the new Reno County Commission District 4 voted Thursday evening to elect John Whitesel to the seat being vacated by Mark Reese.According to Republican Party Chair Ryan Patton, Whitesel received nine of the 17 eligible votes with Ron Pauls receiving eight votes.&nbsp;Whitesel joins Don Bogner as the members from the newly created commission districts. Randy Parks is the replacement in District 1 for Ron Sellers.All five commission members are Republicans. The new members of the commission are scheduled to be sworn in Monday, Jan. 9 at 10 a.m.Patton clarified that Whitesel's name will be sent to the Governor's office for her official appointment on Friday, but with the run up to the legislative session, it's not clear if the official appointment paperwork will be complete by Monday morning.<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;

Whitesel wins county commission seat

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Gas Service is partnering with Kansas agencies to assist customers with completing Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) applications. LIEAP, administered through the Kansas Department of Children and Families, helps low-income households pay a portion of their home energy costs through an annual benefit.

Kansas Gas Service representatives will be available at several community events to help fill out the required application forms and answer customers’ questions about their natural gas accounts.&nbsp;

The Hutchinson event is Jan. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Salvation Army at 700 North Walnut.

You do not need to be a Kansas Gas Customer to get help with your application.

“We know that Kansas residents are facing challenges with increases in costs across the board, including higher utility bills,” said Abbey Frye, Kansas Gas Service director of customer service. “Our goal at these community events is to ensure they are aware of the various available payment options and resources and to assist qualifying customers with their LIEAP applications.”

The 2023 LIEAP application period is from Tuesday, January 3 to Friday, March 31.

For a complete schedule of upcoming event locations and more information about the program and who qualifies, visit <a href="https://www.kansasgasservice.com/Save-Money/Assistance-Programs/Low-Income-Energy-Assistance-Program">KansasGasService.com/LIEAP</a>.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588195629664.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas Gas Service is partnering with Kansas agencies to assist customers with completing Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) applications. LIEAP, administered through the Kansas Department of Children and Families, helps low-income households pay a portion of their home energy costs through an annual benefit.Kansas Gas Service representatives will be available at several community events to help fill out the required application forms and answer customers’ questions about their natural gas accounts.&nbsp;The Hutchinson event is Jan. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Salvation Army at 700 North Walnut.You do not need to be a Kansas Gas Customer to get help with your application.“We know that Kansas residents are facing challenges with increases in costs across the board, including higher utility bills,” said Abbey Frye, Kansas Gas Service director of customer service. “Our goal at these community events is to ensure they are aware of the various available payment options and resources and to assist qualifying customers with their LIEAP applications.”The 2023 LIEAP application period is from Tuesday, January 3 to Friday, March 31.For a complete schedule of upcoming event locations and more information about the program and who qualifies, visit <a href="https://www.kansasgasservice.com/Save-Money/Assistance-Programs/Low-Income-Energy-Assistance-Program">KansasGasService.com/LIEAP</a>. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

KGS partnering with Salvation Army for LIEAP sign up

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;A local Hutchinson woman is bringing her passion for American Sign Language to her community, with a sign language study group on Jan. 7. &nbsp;

“I usually try to host them twice a month and I recently just started doing it,” Sarah Dunbar, the sign language&nbsp;group instructor, said. &nbsp;“It hasn't been going on for a long time, it's something that I kind of just caught an interest in because I know some people who wanted to learn sign. I was like sure, it's a great way to make some friends and teach people sign language, so I recently just started doing it like within the last month.” &nbsp;

Dunbar, a sign language interpreter at Morgan Elementary School in Hutchinson, discovered her passion for sign language while in high school. &nbsp;

“I took all four years of sign language in high school and since then it's always been my dream to be an interpreter, and so this year, I actually got offered the position for interpreter for deaf&nbsp;children at Morgan Elementary,” Dunbar said. “I attended a church that had a few deaf&nbsp;people in it, so I've seen the language for a long time, and so when I got in high school it started out as an extracurricular that&nbsp;they offer. Then after the first year I was in it, I&nbsp;was like, ‘this is a beautiful language.’ It really is and it connects you with people that you never thought you would connect with.”&nbsp;

Some of what Dunbar does as a sign language interpreter,&nbsp;includes checking hearing aids and signing for students in the classroom.&nbsp;

Dunbar expressed&nbsp;more schools should have American Sign Language as an elective.&nbsp;

“Even now at&nbsp;27 years-old, I never forgot about the language so it does stick with you,” Dunbar said. “There's a lot of people that want to learn new languages and I feel like sign language isn't at the top of the list, and now since I’ve become an interpreter, I have seen that more and more people are like, ‘I've always wanted to learn that,’ so I dare think it is beneficial for it to be in schools.”&nbsp;

Dunbar believes knowing sign language helps people build&nbsp;friendships and understanding with the deaf community.&nbsp;

“I know&nbsp;deaf people who I only see once or twice a year and they still remember me,” Dunbar said. “They don't forget who you are because it's such an unlearned language, that it takes a lot of practice and it takes a lot of time. I think that it would benefit the community because more people would realize how great of a community it actually is.” &nbsp;

 Dunbar’s sign language group used to operate on a closed lesson basis, but in order to reach more people and because she wants to see how large her group can get,&nbsp;she has been hosting open lessons.&nbsp;

“There's nothing in Hutchinson that I'm aware of that has signed groups for free,&nbsp;or just people that get together and want to learn a new language unless you go to college for it,” Dunbar said. “I just thought maybe this would be a great way to hopefully get a big class of people to learn about this community.”&nbsp;

Due to how small it is, Dunbar currently holds her sign group at her home. However, she hopes in the future it will grow big enough to rent a building somewhere in Hutchinson to host larger&nbsp;groups.&nbsp;

People interested in joining Sarah Dunbar’s American Sign Language study group can reach out to her on Facebook either through the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/487631296774495" target="_blank">event page</a> or her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007181408482" target="_blank">personal account</a>. &nbsp;

Dunbar said she is still workshopping on how to improve her sign language group, but her aspirations are to hopefully see more people helping the deaf people in the community, while inspiring people to&nbsp;take the time to learn American Sign Language.&nbsp;

Sarah Dunbar’s sign language group is on Saturday, Jan. 7 and will run from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. &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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672964986278.jpeg" alt="Sara Dunbar signs with her daughter-Submitted Photo" />
 <figcaption>Sara Dunbar signs with her daughter-Submitted Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;A local Hutchinson woman is bringing her passion for American Sign Language to her community, with a sign language study group on Jan. 7. &nbsp;“I usually try to host them twice a month and I recently just started doing it,” Sarah Dunbar, the sign language&nbsp;group instructor, said. &nbsp;“It hasn't been going on for a long time, it's something that I kind of just caught an interest in because I know some people who wanted to learn sign. I was like sure, it's a great way to make some friends and teach people sign language, so I recently just started doing it like within the last month.” &nbsp;Dunbar, a sign language interpreter at Morgan Elementary School in Hutchinson, discovered her passion for sign language while in high school. &nbsp;“I took all four years of sign language in high school and since then it's always been my dream to be an interpreter, and so this year, I actually got offered the position for interpreter for deaf&nbsp;children at Morgan Elementary,” Dunbar said. “I attended a church that had a few deaf&nbsp;people in it, so I've seen the language for a long time, and so when I got in high school it started out as an extracurricular that&nbsp;they offer. Then after the first year I was in it, I&nbsp;was like, ‘this is a beautiful language.’ It really is and it connects you with people that you never thought you would connect with.”&nbsp;Some of what Dunbar does as a sign language interpreter,&nbsp;includes checking hearing aids and signing for students in the classroom.&nbsp;Dunbar expressed&nbsp;more schools should have American Sign Language as an elective.&nbsp;“Even now at&nbsp;27 years-old, I never forgot about the language so it does stick with you,” Dunbar said. “There's a lot of people that want to learn new languages and I feel like sign language isn't at the top of the list, and now since I’ve become an interpreter, I have seen that more and more people are like, ‘I've always wanted to learn that,’ so I dare think it is beneficial for it to be in schools.”&nbsp;Dunbar believes knowing sign language helps people build&nbsp;friendships and understanding with the deaf community.&nbsp;“I know&nbsp;deaf people who I only see once or twice a year and they still remember me,” Dunbar said. “They don't forget who you are because it's such an unlearned language, that it takes a lot of practice and it takes a lot of time. I think that it would benefit the community because more people would realize how great of a community it actually is.” &nbsp; Dunbar’s sign language group used to operate on a closed lesson basis, but in order to reach more people and because she wants to see how large her group can get,&nbsp;she has been hosting open lessons.&nbsp;“There's nothing in Hutchinson that I'm aware of that has signed groups for free,&nbsp;or just people that get together and want to learn a new language unless you go to college for it,” Dunbar said. “I just thought maybe this would be a great way to hopefully get a big class of people to learn about this community.”&nbsp;Due to how small it is, Dunbar currently holds her sign group at her home. However, she hopes in the future it will grow big enough to rent a building somewhere in Hutchinson to host larger&nbsp;groups.&nbsp;People interested in joining Sarah Dunbar’s American Sign Language study group can reach out to her on Facebook either through the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/487631296774495" target="_blank">event page</a> or her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007181408482" target="_blank">personal account</a>. &nbsp;Dunbar said she is still workshopping on how to improve her sign language group, but her aspirations are to hopefully see more people helping the deaf people in the community, while inspiring people to&nbsp;take the time to learn American Sign Language.&nbsp;Sarah Dunbar’s sign language group is on Saturday, Jan. 7 and will run from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. &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.

Hutchinson woman hosting sign language group

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The new eight-bed care facility for adults for Horizons Mental Health Center is now fully operational for overnight stays.

"It is designed to provide some intensive support to adults who are struggling with mental health issues," said Beth Akins with Horizons. "The idea is that we can admit them into our crisis center, we can provide them the intense supports for up to 72 hours, which will hopefully help divert them from hospitalization or incarceration due to mental health challenges."

The facility is four double-occupancy rooms, so they can take even numbers of patients by gender.

"There's a high percentage of people who have been incarcerated, who are actually there because of their mental health issues, not because they are necessarily doing criminal things," Akins said. "We are really focusing on trying to provide preventative care to hopefully keep them out of the jail systems."

Part of what is helping also, is the relationships that the people who have had to use the center now have with people that have taken care of them, so that they now feel comfortable telling someone when they are struggling, before they spiral out of control.

"We're providing them the services in the community where they need the help," Akins said. "We can hopefully engage them and give them the medications or the therapy or the supports that they need so that they can feel better."

The Horizons Carrefour Crisis Center was purchased thanks to a grant from the federal government as part of the process of making Horizons a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657122675876.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The new eight-bed care facility for adults for Horizons Mental Health Center is now fully operational for overnight stays."It is designed to provide some intensive support to adults who are struggling with mental health issues," said Beth Akins with Horizons. "The idea is that we can admit them into our crisis center, we can provide them the intense supports for up to 72 hours, which will hopefully help divert them from hospitalization or incarceration due to mental health challenges."The facility is four double-occupancy rooms, so they can take even numbers of patients by gender."There's a high percentage of people who have been incarcerated, who are actually there because of their mental health issues, not because they are necessarily doing criminal things," Akins said. "We are really focusing on trying to provide preventative care to hopefully keep them out of the jail systems."Part of what is helping also, is the relationships that the people who have had to use the center now have with people that have taken care of them, so that they now feel comfortable telling someone when they are struggling, before they spiral out of control."We're providing them the services in the community where they need the help," Akins said. "We can hopefully engage them and give them the medications or the therapy or the supports that they need so that they can feel better."The Horizons Carrefour Crisis Center was purchased thanks to a grant from the federal government as part of the process of making Horizons a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic.<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;

Crisis center now fully operational

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — New Hutchinson City Manager Kendal Francis sees his job as helping all levels of city employees, both managers and rank and file, do theirs.

"I've told the team here basically, through a group email, that I've done a lot of the things I'll be asking of them. You know, I've been out in the middle of the night in a water break, freezing my rear end off. I have empathy for those people who are out there doing that, who are serving their community in that regard. Now that I've transitioned into administration, there is a balance of making certain that, first and foremost, we are transparent, because that's immensely important. I never want the council to be surprised."

It's also important that anyone who the public might ask a question of knows as much as they can know.

"Just because employees work for the City of Hutch, doesn't mean that they always know what's going on in the City of Hutchinson. I'm intentional about getting out and talking to the employees. I like to do a lot of town hall style meetings with the departments, where I get out and visit with them as a whole, just a question and answer, you know, here's what's going on, here's why we're doing this."

When Francis talks about his management style, he thinks of the sign made for the desk of former President Truman, 'The Buck Stops Here'.

"I'll be the one that takes the slings and arrows," Francis said. "I need my executive team to be focused on managing the day to day operations of their departments. My job is that buffer, not only between them and the community, but them and the governing body."

He still wants leaders and the employees to know the correct answers if they are asked and to be able to do that without excessive anxiety, so it is his job to make sure they know what they need to know.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596042579573.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — New Hutchinson City Manager Kendal Francis sees his job as helping all levels of city employees, both managers and rank and file, do theirs."I've told the team here basically, through a group email, that I've done a lot of the things I'll be asking of them. You know, I've been out in the middle of the night in a water break, freezing my rear end off. I have empathy for those people who are out there doing that, who are serving their community in that regard. Now that I've transitioned into administration, there is a balance of making certain that, first and foremost, we are transparent, because that's immensely important. I never want the council to be surprised."It's also important that anyone who the public might ask a question of knows as much as they can know."Just because employees work for the City of Hutch, doesn't mean that they always know what's going on in the City of Hutchinson. I'm intentional about getting out and talking to the employees. I like to do a lot of town hall style meetings with the departments, where I get out and visit with them as a whole, just a question and answer, you know, here's what's going on, here's why we're doing this."When Francis talks about his management style, he thinks of the sign made for the desk of former President Truman, 'The Buck Stops Here'."I'll be the one that takes the slings and arrows," Francis said. "I need my executive team to be focused on managing the day to day operations of their departments. My job is that buffer, not only between them and the community, but them and the governing body."He still wants leaders and the employees to know the correct answers if they are asked and to be able to do that without excessive anxiety, so it is his job to make sure they know what they need to know.<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;

New City Manager: Transparency is 'immensely important'

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — South Hutchinson City Manager Joseph Turner knows that his city's water needs are a major issue going forward.

"It creates challenges," Turner said. "The long story short on that is that we use about 90% of our annual water allotment each year. Obviously, the lion's share of our usage is coming from a major industrial customer, Tyson Foods. That creates some challenges. There are a lot of benefits of having a large employer like that in your community, but that also creates a lot of challenges and one of the challenges we're facing is that we're bumping up toward our water allotment limit.

The percentage they have left, they are working to get access to.

"We did perfect our first water files, I think, in modern history of the community," Turner said. "We perfected another well, another water file in 2022. We're going to file that here soon to get that taken care of and then we're going to perfect our last water file in 2023. Exciting times in terms of getting things done and on track."

A reminder that perfecting a water file means actually using the water and showing how it is going to be used, for a city with South Hutchinson's demand, that is not a challenge. 

However, if the city wants to continue to encourage development to its south, particularly in a new industrial park that the Hutchinson and Reno County Chamber wants to create, they will have to find other water somewhere. The City of Hutchinson has discussed having a study done to see if they can be that supplier or not.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671292127233.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — South Hutchinson City Manager Joseph Turner knows that his city's water needs are a major issue going forward."It creates challenges," Turner said. "The long story short on that is that we use about 90% of our annual water allotment each year. Obviously, the lion's share of our usage is coming from a major industrial customer, Tyson Foods. That creates some challenges. There are a lot of benefits of having a large employer like that in your community, but that also creates a lot of challenges and one of the challenges we're facing is that we're bumping up toward our water allotment limit.The percentage they have left, they are working to get access to."We did perfect our first water files, I think, in modern history of the community," Turner said. "We perfected another well, another water file in 2022. We're going to file that here soon to get that taken care of and then we're going to perfect our last water file in 2023. Exciting times in terms of getting things done and on track."A reminder that perfecting a water file means actually using the water and showing how it is going to be used, for a city with South Hutchinson's demand, that is not a challenge. However, if the city wants to continue to encourage development to its south, particularly in a new industrial park that the Hutchinson and Reno County Chamber wants to create, they will have to find other water somewhere. The City of Hutchinson has discussed having a study done to see if they can be that supplier or not.<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;

South Hutch to continue work on water issues

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Recreation Commission’s Board of Commissioners announced a change Wednesday to their monthly meeting day and time in 2023. 

The monthly Board of Commissioners meeting will now take place the third Wednesday of each month at 4 p.m. Meetings are held at Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st and are open to the public.

The first 2023 Hutch Rec Board of Commissioners meeting will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at 4 p.m.

There, commissioners will take an official vote on the meeting change.

For more information on the Board of Commissioners monthly meetings, contact Tony Finlay, executive director at Hutch Rec, at <a href="mailto:tfinlay@hutchrec.com">tfinlay@hutchrec.com</a> or (620) 663-6179.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670462885414.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Recreation Commission’s Board of Commissioners announced a change Wednesday to their monthly meeting day and time in 2023. The monthly Board of Commissioners meeting will now take place the third Wednesday of each month at 4 p.m. Meetings are held at Hutch Rec Downtown, 17 E. 1st and are open to the public.The first 2023 Hutch Rec Board of Commissioners meeting will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at 4 p.m.There, commissioners will take an official vote on the meeting change.For more information on the Board of Commissioners monthly meetings, contact Tony Finlay, executive director at Hutch Rec, at <a href="mailto:tfinlay@hutchrec.com">tfinlay@hutchrec.com</a> or (620) 663-6179. <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;

Hutch Rec board to meet on third Wednesdays in 2023

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson Small Business Relief and Recovery Grant Program is intended to respond to the negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency, as well as responding to the needs of an adequate workforce to fully support our local Small Businesses.

This grant focuses on the identified needs and impacts faced by local small businesses. By providing emergency grant funding to impacted local small businesses, the Program is designed to ensure the economic health of the City of Hutchinson, and thereby improve the public health and welfare for Hutchinson’s residents. The grant funded allocated hereunder is designed to help small businesses keep their doors open, protect local jobs threatened by the COVID-19 pandemic, support community recovery, and increase the resiliency of local businesses in our community. Through the program, eligible small businesses operating in the City of Hutchinson have the opportunity to apply for cash assistance to help mitigate the impacts of revenue reductions associated with COVID-19, reimburse them for Covid-19 related expenses, and assist with employee retention and development. This grant will also allow funding of new small&nbsp;business ventures based on a sound and complete business plan, located in the City of Hutchinson. The City anticipates awarding eligible small businesses with a onetime cash grant commensurate with impact to their business, based on justifiable need and business resiliency.

Grants will be awarded up to $20,000.00 per eligible business.

To be eligible for grant funding, a small business must meet the following criteria:

• Business has a drop in revenue directly attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., a decline in gross receipts, comparable to measures used to assess eligibility for the Federal Paycheck Protection Program);

• Business must register with <a href="http://Sam.gov">Sam.gov</a> and obtain a UEI number

• Business has 25 or fewer employees (including the business owner/worker); employee count shall be based on number of employees as of 3/4/2021

• Business is licensed to do business in the State of Kansas and in the City of Hutchinson

• Business had been in operation for at least three months in the City of Hutchinson prior to March 04, 2021

• Business is not facing any pending litigation or legal action

• Business is not suspended or debarred from the use of federal funds

• Business is physically located in the City of Hutchinson

• Business is not a franchise - unless that franchise is not a subsidiary of a larger corporation and is able to document that it is not a subsidiary

• Business is not a chain (unless the majority of locations are located in the City of Hutchinson)

• Business is not restricted to patrons over the age of 18

• Businesses in the hardest hit sectors including: restaurant/dining, retail, hospitality, Travel &amp; Tourism, and other service sector businesses will be prioritized for funding

• For any Small Business Startup Assistance, the proposed business must be in Hutchinson, and must have a complete business plan. Failure to provide a business plan will result in denial of funding in this category.

The official application will be released on January 9, 2023, on the City’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/ARPA">www.hutchgov.com/ARPA</a>. An information session will be held online via Microsoft Teams at 1:00 p.m. on January 27, 2023.

To register for the information session please find details on the City’s website. All applications for funding are due by February 24, 2023, by 4:30 p.m.

The City of Hutchinson understands the needs of our local Small Businesses, and we feel that this grant program will be a catalyst to assist the vital Small Businesses in the City of Hutchinson.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672869991962.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson Small Business Relief and Recovery Grant Program is intended to respond to the negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency, as well as responding to the needs of an adequate workforce to fully support our local Small Businesses.This grant focuses on the identified needs and impacts faced by local small businesses. By providing emergency grant funding to impacted local small businesses, the Program is designed to ensure the economic health of the City of Hutchinson, and thereby improve the public health and welfare for Hutchinson’s residents. The grant funded allocated hereunder is designed to help small businesses keep their doors open, protect local jobs threatened by the COVID-19 pandemic, support community recovery, and increase the resiliency of local businesses in our community. Through the program, eligible small businesses operating in the City of Hutchinson have the opportunity to apply for cash assistance to help mitigate the impacts of revenue reductions associated with COVID-19, reimburse them for Covid-19 related expenses, and assist with employee retention and development. This grant will also allow funding of new small&nbsp;business ventures based on a sound and complete business plan, located in the City of Hutchinson. The City anticipates awarding eligible small businesses with a onetime cash grant commensurate with impact to their business, based on justifiable need and business resiliency.Grants will be awarded up to $20,000.00 per eligible business.To be eligible for grant funding, a small business must meet the following criteria:• Business has a drop in revenue directly attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., a decline in gross receipts, comparable to measures used to assess eligibility for the Federal Paycheck Protection Program);• Business must register with <a href="http://Sam.gov">Sam.gov</a> and obtain a UEI number• Business has 25 or fewer employees (including the business owner/worker); employee count shall be based on number of employees as of 3/4/2021• Business is licensed to do business in the State of Kansas and in the City of Hutchinson• Business had been in operation for at least three months in the City of Hutchinson prior to March 04, 2021• Business is not facing any pending litigation or legal action• Business is not suspended or debarred from the use of federal funds• Business is physically located in the City of Hutchinson• Business is not a franchise - unless that franchise is not a subsidiary of a larger corporation and is able to document that it is not a subsidiary• Business is not a chain (unless the majority of locations are located in the City of Hutchinson)• Business is not restricted to patrons over the age of 18• Businesses in the hardest hit sectors including: restaurant/dining, retail, hospitality, Travel &amp; Tourism, and other service sector businesses will be prioritized for funding• For any Small Business Startup Assistance, the proposed business must be in Hutchinson, and must have a complete business plan. Failure to provide a business plan will result in denial of funding in this category.The official application will be released on January 9, 2023, on the City’s website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hutchgov.com/ARPA">www.hutchgov.com/ARPA</a>. An information session will be held online via Microsoft Teams at 1:00 p.m. on January 27, 2023. To register for the information session please find details on the City’s website. All applications for funding are due by February 24, 2023, by 4:30 p.m.The City of Hutchinson understands the needs of our local Small Businesses, and we feel that this grant program will be a catalyst to assist the vital Small Businesses in the City of Hutchinson.

City Announces Launch of Small Business Relief and Recovery Grant Program funded through the American Rescue Plan Act

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Norwich public water supply system located Kingman County. 

The advisory was issued because of a line break leading to low water pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain required water pressure may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Norwich indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 620-478-2278 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. 

For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDQuNjkyMjk5NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi80NjgvQ29uc3VtZXItSW5mb3JtYXRpb24tUmVnYXJkaW5nLWEtRGlzcnVwdD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.UiB-yZ_erC1U5tKXa5ok5Tr_HUKjwSKmBG0cd-rQhd0/s/1305944069/br/151724350535-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579816186796.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Norwich public water supply system located Kingman County. The advisory was issued because of a line break leading to low water pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain required water pressure may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Norwich indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system at: 620-478-2278 or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAxMDQuNjkyMjk5NDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5rZGhlLmtzLmdvdi80NjgvQ29uc3VtZXItSW5mb3JtYXRpb24tUmVnYXJkaW5nLWEtRGlzcnVwdD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.UiB-yZ_erC1U5tKXa5ok5Tr_HUKjwSKmBG0cd-rQhd0/s/1305944069/br/151724350535-l" target="_blank">kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption</a>.

Norwich no longer under boil order

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced on Jan. 4, traffic on K-14/K-96 west of the bridge over North Yaggy Road will be shifted slightly to temporary lanes on Tuesday, Jan. 10.&nbsp;

The location in Reno County is south of 50th&nbsp;Ave. and west of the Willowbrook neighborhood.&nbsp;

Motorists will be directed to drive at a reduced speed of 30 mph through the work zone.&nbsp;

The temporary lanes and reduced speed limit will be used until the K-14 realignment project is completed in June.&nbsp;

The KDOT realignment project started in the spring of 2021, and is a 15-mile, $81.7 million realignment of K-14. &nbsp;

The work stretches from Hutchinson to Nickerson to Sterling, Kan. &nbsp;

The project is expected to be completed by June 16. &nbsp;

Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor.&nbsp;

During the work, traffic will continue to use the existing K-14/96 alignment in Reno and Rice counties.&nbsp;

The Reno County portion of the realignment will start&nbsp;from about 4.5 miles southeast of Nickerson northwest to the Reno/Rice County line. The total length is a little over seven&nbsp;miles.&nbsp;

The Rice County portion of the realignment will be from the Reno/Rice County line to just north of the K-96/Avenue T junction. The total length being&nbsp;about eight&nbsp;miles.&nbsp;

For updated information on other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>.&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/2023/1/1672861437571.png" alt="The map shows the approximate location, marked in red, of the traffic shift near the Yaggy Road bridge. Map Courtesy KDOT" />
 <figcaption>The map shows the approximate location, marked in red, of the traffic shift near the Yaggy Road bridge. Map Courtesy KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced on Jan. 4, traffic on K-14/K-96 west of the bridge over North Yaggy Road will be shifted slightly to temporary lanes on Tuesday, Jan. 10.&nbsp;The location in Reno County is south of 50th&nbsp;Ave. and west of the Willowbrook neighborhood.&nbsp;Motorists will be directed to drive at a reduced speed of 30 mph through the work zone.&nbsp;The temporary lanes and reduced speed limit will be used until the K-14 realignment project is completed in June.&nbsp;The KDOT realignment project started in the spring of 2021, and is a 15-mile, $81.7 million realignment of K-14. &nbsp;The work stretches from Hutchinson to Nickerson to Sterling, Kan. &nbsp;The project is expected to be completed by June 16. &nbsp;Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, is the primary contractor.&nbsp;During the work, traffic will continue to use the existing K-14/96 alignment in Reno and Rice counties.&nbsp;The Reno County portion of the realignment will start&nbsp;from about 4.5 miles southeast of Nickerson northwest to the Reno/Rice County line. The total length is a little over seven&nbsp;miles.&nbsp;The Rice County portion of the realignment will be from the Reno/Rice County line to just north of the K-96/Avenue T junction. The total length being&nbsp;about eight&nbsp;miles.&nbsp;For updated information on other KDOT highway projects and road conditions across Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.org/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.org</a>.&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;

Traffic shift near Yaggy Road bridge in Reno County

LINDSBORG, Kan. – Bethany College announced on Jan. 2, the Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley (COSV) concert will take place on&nbsp;Jan. 15, at 4 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church in Lindsborg.&nbsp;

The performance will feature works by Igor Stravinsky, Edward Elgar, and Franz Schubert.&nbsp;

Supported by Bethany College and the Lindsborg Arts Council, the COSV is an auditioned regional ensemble of professional musicians that not only includes Bethany faculty members but players from Wichita, Manhattan, Salina, and Kansas City as well. &nbsp;

Under the musical direction of Keith Dodson, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Instrumental Studies, and led by concertmaster Ann Samuelson, the ensemble seeks to educate and engage audience members through the performance of orchestral masterworks.&nbsp;

While there are many symphonic orchestras in the Central Kansas area, this ensemble is said to be unique in terms of its smaller size. It consistently maintains accomplished principled musicians from all over the region.&nbsp;

“As a musician and connoisseur of classical music, I believe it is essential to support the COSV as it brings a high-quality performance and people to our local area together through their appreciation of music. Represented is a diverse host of faculty from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University,” President Elizabeth Mauch said. “Alongside these players are members of the Salina Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Kansas City Civic, and Kansas City Symphony, as well as our Lindsborg musicians and Bethany College faculty. Keith Dodson has programmed a season of music that will provoke your thoughts, inspire your creativity, and, most importantly, bring us closer as a community that cherishes decorating our communal time with the sounds of music.”&nbsp;

Ann Samuelson is a recently retired Instructor of Music in Violin/Viola and Piano Proficiency at Bethany College. &nbsp;

She is a member of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and maintains a private studio of violin and viola students.&nbsp;

Samuelson received her Bachelor of Music Education and Kodaly certification from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and a Master of Music in Violin Performance from the University of Connecticut.&nbsp;

Nancy Johnson has been the principal second violin of the Wichita Symphony since 2000. &nbsp;

She is also on the faculties of Bethel College and Hesston College teaching private violin students. &nbsp;

Johnson holds degrees in violin performance from The University of Kansas and Virginia Commonwealth University with post-graduate work at the University of Northern Colorado.&nbsp;

Ricardo Cavalcante de Oliveira started his musical career as a violist at Pernambuco Conservatory in Brazil at the age of 13. &nbsp;

Cavalcante de Oliveira graduated from The University of Kansas with a Master of Music with an emphasis in Viola Performance in 2022.&nbsp;

Meagan Dodson is currently the instructor of cello at Bethany College and a student in the Masters of String Pedagogy program at the University of Kansas studying under Hannah Collins. &nbsp;

Dodson&nbsp;was recently appointed to the cello faculty at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.&nbsp;

Andrew Book (double bass) is a 5th-12th grade orchestra teacher of 12 years in the Blue Valley West area of Overland Park, Kan. &nbsp;

Book graduated from Wichita State University with degrees in Music Education and Double Bass, and completed his Master of Music Education, with an emphasis in String Pedagogy.&nbsp;

Colleen White is an Assistant Professor of Flute at Kansas State University. &nbsp;

She has coordinated performance events for Grammy Award Winners, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows for the Colorado Flute Association and Spoleto Festival USA. &nbsp;

White regularly performs in a wide variety of solo, orchestral, and chamber music settings across North America, including performances with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, as a soloist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and at Carnegie Hall.&nbsp;

Margaret Marco is the Professor of Oboe at the University of Kansas and principal oboist of the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra. She holds a bachelor of music degree from Northwestern University, a master of music education from The University of Iowa, and a doctor of music arts degree from the University of Illinois.&nbsp;

Susan Gustavson Maxwell is a teacher, performer, and reed maker. &nbsp;

She currently, teaches Bassoon, History of Rock, Aural Skills, and Introduction to Music at Kansas State University and performs regularly with the Konza Wind Quintet and the Tallgrass Trio. &nbsp;

Maxwell is the only named bassoon tool maker for her Bassoon Reed Profiler. This tool used at all major music schools around the country. &nbsp;

Another of Maxwell’s area of expertise is the art of playing high notes on the bassoon. This has resulted in a High Note Studies published with three retailers.&nbsp;

Meri Jenkins completed her baccalaureate degree in music performance in her hometown at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and completed her master’s degree in music performance at Wichita State University. &nbsp;

She owns and operates Intrepid Brass Wichita LLC, which creates work and opportunities for brass players through chamber brass gigs and the newly created community ensemble, Intrepid Brass Band. &nbsp;

Jenkins teaches adjunct brass lessons at Bethel College and maintains a private studio of middle and high school students across Wichita.&nbsp;

Andrew Bishop holds a master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of Missouri and studied trumpet performance at Wichita State University. &nbsp;

In the spring of 2019, Andrew won the Principal Trumpet chair with the Des Moines Symphony. In the fall of 2021, Andrew was named Lecturer of Trumpet at Iowa State University.&nbsp;

Dan Hinman is an instructor at Kansas State University where he teaches applied trombone, the KSU Trombone Choir, and other academic music courses. &nbsp;

Hinman holds a music education degree from North Dakota State University, a master of music degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in trombone performance from the University of North Texas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672853735335.jpg" alt="The Chamber Orchestra of the Smokey Valley contains a small group of distinguished Kansas musicians. [Photo: Pixabay]" />
 <figcaption>The Chamber Orchestra of the Smokey Valley contains a small group of distinguished Kansas musicians. [Photo: Pixabay]</figcaption>
 </figure>LINDSBORG, Kan. – Bethany College announced on Jan. 2, the Chamber Orchestra of the Smoky Valley (COSV) concert will take place on&nbsp;Jan. 15, at 4 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church in Lindsborg.&nbsp;The performance will feature works by Igor Stravinsky, Edward Elgar, and Franz Schubert.&nbsp;Supported by Bethany College and the Lindsborg Arts Council, the COSV is an auditioned regional ensemble of professional musicians that not only includes Bethany faculty members but players from Wichita, Manhattan, Salina, and Kansas City as well. &nbsp;Under the musical direction of Keith Dodson, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Instrumental Studies, and led by concertmaster Ann Samuelson, the ensemble seeks to educate and engage audience members through the performance of orchestral masterworks.&nbsp;While there are many symphonic orchestras in the Central Kansas area, this ensemble is said to be unique in terms of its smaller size. It consistently maintains accomplished principled musicians from all over the region.&nbsp;“As a musician and connoisseur of classical music, I believe it is essential to support the COSV as it brings a high-quality performance and people to our local area together through their appreciation of music. Represented is a diverse host of faculty from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University,” President Elizabeth Mauch said. “Alongside these players are members of the Salina Symphony, Wichita Symphony, Kansas City Civic, and Kansas City Symphony, as well as our Lindsborg musicians and Bethany College faculty. Keith Dodson has programmed a season of music that will provoke your thoughts, inspire your creativity, and, most importantly, bring us closer as a community that cherishes decorating our communal time with the sounds of music.”&nbsp;Ann Samuelson is a recently retired Instructor of Music in Violin/Viola and Piano Proficiency at Bethany College. &nbsp;She is a member of the Wichita Symphony Orchestra and maintains a private studio of violin and viola students.&nbsp;Samuelson received her Bachelor of Music Education and Kodaly certification from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and a Master of Music in Violin Performance from the University of Connecticut.&nbsp;Nancy Johnson has been the principal second violin of the Wichita Symphony since 2000. &nbsp;She is also on the faculties of Bethel College and Hesston College teaching private violin students. &nbsp;Johnson holds degrees in violin performance from The University of Kansas and Virginia Commonwealth University with post-graduate work at the University of Northern Colorado.&nbsp;Ricardo Cavalcante de Oliveira started his musical career as a violist at Pernambuco Conservatory in Brazil at the age of 13. &nbsp;Cavalcante de Oliveira graduated from The University of Kansas with a Master of Music with an emphasis in Viola Performance in 2022.&nbsp;Meagan Dodson is currently the instructor of cello at Bethany College and a student in the Masters of String Pedagogy program at the University of Kansas studying under Hannah Collins. &nbsp;Dodson&nbsp;was recently appointed to the cello faculty at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan.&nbsp;Andrew Book (double bass) is a 5th-12th grade orchestra teacher of 12 years in the Blue Valley West area of Overland Park, Kan. &nbsp;Book graduated from Wichita State University with degrees in Music Education and Double Bass, and completed his Master of Music Education, with an emphasis in String Pedagogy.&nbsp;Colleen White is an Assistant Professor of Flute at Kansas State University. &nbsp;She has coordinated performance events for Grammy Award Winners, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows for the Colorado Flute Association and Spoleto Festival USA. &nbsp;White regularly performs in a wide variety of solo, orchestral, and chamber music settings across North America, including performances with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, as a soloist with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and at Carnegie Hall.&nbsp;Margaret Marco is the Professor of Oboe at the University of Kansas and principal oboist of the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra. She holds a bachelor of music degree from Northwestern University, a master of music education from The University of Iowa, and a doctor of music arts degree from the University of Illinois.&nbsp;Susan Gustavson Maxwell is a teacher, performer, and reed maker. &nbsp;She currently, teaches Bassoon, History of Rock, Aural Skills, and Introduction to Music at Kansas State University and performs regularly with the Konza Wind Quintet and the Tallgrass Trio. &nbsp;Maxwell is the only named bassoon tool maker for her Bassoon Reed Profiler. This tool used at all major music schools around the country. &nbsp;Another of Maxwell’s area of expertise is the art of playing high notes on the bassoon. This has resulted in a High Note Studies published with three retailers.&nbsp;Meri Jenkins completed her baccalaureate degree in music performance in her hometown at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and completed her master’s degree in music performance at Wichita State University. &nbsp;She owns and operates Intrepid Brass Wichita LLC, which creates work and opportunities for brass players through chamber brass gigs and the newly created community ensemble, Intrepid Brass Band. &nbsp;Jenkins teaches adjunct brass lessons at Bethel College and maintains a private studio of middle and high school students across Wichita.&nbsp;Andrew Bishop holds a master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of Missouri and studied trumpet performance at Wichita State University. &nbsp;In the spring of 2019, Andrew won the Principal Trumpet chair with the Des Moines Symphony. In the fall of 2021, Andrew was named Lecturer of Trumpet at Iowa State University.&nbsp;Dan Hinman is an instructor at Kansas State University where he teaches applied trombone, the KSU Trombone Choir, and other academic music courses. &nbsp;Hinman holds a music education degree from North Dakota State University, a master of music degree from the University of Minnesota, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in trombone performance from the University of North Texas.&nbsp;The concert will be&nbsp;free and open to the public.&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;

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