RENO COUNTY, Kan. — Nitrate levels have risen again above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The last nitrate level test was collected on June 6, 2023. 

The level tested at 11.2 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. 

Nitrate levels in water resources have increased in many areas due to applications of inorganic fertilizer and animal manure in agricultural areas. Below are the historical dates where previous testing took place.

The last nitrate level test prior to this month was collected on March 6, 2023. The level tested at 10.5 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems.

On June 13, 2022, Reno County received a Nitrate result of 11.3 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. A warning was then sent out on June 15, 2022, to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months.

A second notice was sent to residents on September 6, 2022, due to additional testing.

On May 7, 2021, Reno County received a precautionary public drinking water advisory of potential Nitrate water quality from KDHE. A warning was then sent out on May 17, 2021, to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent to residents on September 23, 2021, due to additional testing and a third notice was sent out October 4, 2021, due to additional testing as well.

A fourth notice was sent out on December 29, 2021, due to additional testing that was completed.

On August 12, 2020, Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A warning was then sent to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent on September 3, 2020, due to additional testing. A third precautionary public notice sent on October 27, 2020, requiring bottled water to be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.

Reno County Public Works is currently in discussions with the City of Hutchinson regarding the purchasing of water for Yoder. That negotiation is due to take place next month.

A reminder that boiling water with nitrate contamination is not effective and can actually make the problem worse.

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674487021393.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SANDRA MILBURN Reno CountyRENO COUNTY, Kan. — Nitrate levels have risen again above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The last nitrate level test was collected on June 6, 2023. The level tested at 11.2 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. Nitrate levels in water resources have increased in many areas due to applications of inorganic fertilizer and animal manure in agricultural areas. Below are the historical dates where previous testing took place.The last nitrate level test prior to this month was collected on March 6, 2023. The level tested at 10.5 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems.On June 13, 2022, Reno County received a Nitrate result of 11.3 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. A warning was then sent out on June 15, 2022, to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months.A second notice was sent to residents on September 6, 2022, due to additional testing.On May 7, 2021, Reno County received a precautionary public drinking water advisory of potential Nitrate water quality from KDHE. A warning was then sent out on May 17, 2021, to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent to residents on September 23, 2021, due to additional testing and a third notice was sent out October 4, 2021, due to additional testing as well.A fourth notice was sent out on December 29, 2021, due to additional testing that was completed.On August 12, 2020, Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A warning was then sent to Yoder residents to limit water usage, especially for infants under 6 months. A second notice was sent on September 3, 2020, due to additional testing. A third precautionary public notice sent on October 27, 2020, requiring bottled water to be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.Reno County Public Works is currently in discussions with the City of Hutchinson regarding the purchasing of water for Yoder. That negotiation is due to take place next month.A reminder that boiling water with nitrate contamination is not effective and can actually make the problem worse.<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;

High nitrate levels warrant water source changes in RWD 101

RENO COUNTY, Kan. —&nbsp;The K-14 realignment project was completed, and the highway reopened with new interchanges on June 14. 

The moment was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), and representatives from the cities of Nickerson, Sterling and Hutchinson, and officials from Reno and Rice counties. &nbsp;

The 15-mile, $81.7 million realignment project began in the spring of 2021. The work stretched from near Hutchinson to Nickerson to Sterling.

Acting KDOT Secretary Calvin Reed&nbsp;gave the opening remarks and talked about the project. &nbsp;

 “No doubt those of us who travel this beautiful new stretch of K-14 for the first time will be amazed at the amount of work that’s taken place,” Reed said. &nbsp;

In Reno County, the seven-mile&nbsp;project included five bridges and 24 reinforced concrete boxes. Earthwork involved nearly two and a quarter million cubic yards of fill and more than 100,000 tons of asphalt. &nbsp;

K-14 in Rice County is about eight&nbsp;miles in length, and it required construction of six bridges, 19 reinforced concrete boxes, and a similar amount of fill and asphalt as in Reno County.&nbsp;

The result is a 15-mile two lane asphalt freeway with eight-foot paved shoulders and&nbsp;with right-of-way secured to accommodate expansion to four lanes in the future. &nbsp;

The new highway will improve safety by limiting access to new interchanges. In addition to the interchange at Nickerson Road in Nickerson, other interchanges will be at 56th Avenue near Hutchinson and at Broadway Avenue near Sterling. &nbsp;

The new alignment also improves safety by allowing for adequate passing opportunities and eliminating the sharp turns that came with the existing alignment, which in some places dated back to World War I. &nbsp;

“The opening of this new highway represents the turning of a page for generations of residents and travelers, for whom the existing K-14 and K-96 routes was an integral part of their lives in their community’s history,” Reed said. “Now we open the door to the convenience and the opportunity this newly constructed highway&nbsp;represents. The new K-14 will make travel easier and more expedient. The drive from Sterling to Nickerson to Hutchinson and vice versa, is about to become smooth and seamless, requiring less travel time.” &nbsp;

Reed added that for thousands of residents, the new highway represents improved access to work, shopping, healthcare, recreation, commerce, and education, as well as visiting friends and family.&nbsp;

The new highway will allow first responders to be more prompt in reaching emergencies.

Additionally, the convenience of the new K-14 highway will be a selling point in attracting and keeping new residents and bringing new businesses to south-central Kansas.&nbsp;

During his opening remarks, Reed also addressed distinguished guest Lorene Bethell.&nbsp;

Lorene Bethell is the wife of the late Kansas Representative Bob Bethell, who represented Rice County and parts of Reno and Barton Counties. Bob Bethell died in a car accident when he was driving home after the Legislature had adjourned. &nbsp;

 “On Saturday, July 1, a ceremony will take place honoring Representative Bethell’s honor and bring attention to the new K-14 memorial interchange sign in his name,” Reed said. &nbsp;

The sign will be installed at the new K-14 interchange just outside of Sterling.&nbsp;

Nickerson Mayor Peggy Ruebke said she looked back at the history of the project. &nbsp;

“Today, June 14, I have the honor of helping cut the ribbon, two days before the scheduled completion,” Ruebke said. &nbsp;

Sterling Mayor Bob Boltz said it is nice to have the project come to an end. &nbsp;

“The City of Sterling would like to thank the many partners Involved in bringing this project to fruition,” Boltz said. “Back in the 1980s, the concept of the project was shared with our community, and since then our community leaders have worked diligently to make the project a benefit to the community.”&nbsp;

Boltz said Sterling has been very involved in the project when it came to representing their community and addressing the state highway system’s impact on Sterling citizens. &nbsp;

Hutchinson Mayor Jon Richardson said the K-14 project represents&nbsp;more for Hutchinson businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“For the small businesses that are located in Hutchinson that operate within the region, it's all about accessibility and convenience,” Richardson said.&nbsp;

Reno County Commission chairperson Daniel Friesen commended KDOT for their work on the K-14 highway. &nbsp;

“KDOT builds some of the best roads in the nation, I think we’re often in the top five as far as best roads,” Friesen said. “You can see that. All of their new work, it’s stellar work. This bridge and everything is pristine when they’re done with it. It’s an impressive feat.” &nbsp;

Friesen said the communities benefiting from K-14 should feel a lot closer now.&nbsp;

Rice County Commission chairperson Clay Thomas said the K-14 highway represents change and a more interconnected community among those peppered along it. &nbsp;

“The world has gotten small enough that what benefits us in Sterling now helps benefit Nickerson and vice-versa, we’re all thinking together on this,” Thomas said. “For us this is an immediate relief to some of our infrastructure.”&nbsp;

Thomas said it is going to be interesting to see what the rest of the benefits of the new highway are, but he believes the communities along the route are fortunate to have forward-thinking and thorough people on projects like K-14. &nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, was the primary contractor for the K-14 highway project.&nbsp;

The new K-14 alignment opened Wednesday afternoon. &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/2023/6/1686768879076.jpeg" alt="K-14 Ribbon Cutting-Photo by Judd Weil" />
 <figcaption>K-14 Ribbon Cutting-Photo by Judd Weil</figcaption>
 </figure>By JUDD WEIL Hutch PostRENO COUNTY, Kan. —&nbsp;The K-14 realignment project was completed, and the highway reopened with new interchanges on June 14. The moment was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), and representatives from the cities of Nickerson, Sterling and Hutchinson, and officials from Reno and Rice counties. &nbsp;The 15-mile, $81.7 million realignment project began in the spring of 2021. The work stretched from near Hutchinson to Nickerson to Sterling.Acting KDOT Secretary Calvin Reed&nbsp;gave the opening remarks and talked about the project. &nbsp; “No doubt those of us who travel this beautiful new stretch of K-14 for the first time will be amazed at the amount of work that’s taken place,” Reed said. &nbsp;In Reno County, the seven-mile&nbsp;project included five bridges and 24 reinforced concrete boxes. Earthwork involved nearly two and a quarter million cubic yards of fill and more than 100,000 tons of asphalt. &nbsp;K-14 in Rice County is about eight&nbsp;miles in length, and it required construction of six bridges, 19 reinforced concrete boxes, and a similar amount of fill and asphalt as in Reno County.&nbsp;The result is a 15-mile two lane asphalt freeway with eight-foot paved shoulders and&nbsp;with right-of-way secured to accommodate expansion to four lanes in the future. &nbsp;The new highway will improve safety by limiting access to new interchanges. In addition to the interchange at Nickerson Road in Nickerson, other interchanges will be at 56th Avenue near Hutchinson and at Broadway Avenue near Sterling. &nbsp;The new alignment also improves safety by allowing for adequate passing opportunities and eliminating the sharp turns that came with the existing alignment, which in some places dated back to World War I. &nbsp;“The opening of this new highway represents the turning of a page for generations of residents and travelers, for whom the existing K-14 and K-96 routes was an integral part of their lives in their community’s history,” Reed said. “Now we open the door to the convenience and the opportunity this newly constructed highway&nbsp;represents. The new K-14 will make travel easier and more expedient. The drive from Sterling to Nickerson to Hutchinson and vice versa, is about to become smooth and seamless, requiring less travel time.” &nbsp;Reed added that for thousands of residents, the new highway represents improved access to work, shopping, healthcare, recreation, commerce, and education, as well as visiting friends and family.&nbsp;The new highway will allow first responders to be more prompt in reaching emergencies.Additionally, the convenience of the new K-14 highway will be a selling point in attracting and keeping new residents and bringing new businesses to south-central Kansas.&nbsp;During his opening remarks, Reed also addressed distinguished guest Lorene Bethell.&nbsp;Lorene Bethell is the wife of the late Kansas Representative Bob Bethell, who represented Rice County and parts of Reno and Barton Counties. Bob Bethell died in a car accident when he was driving home after the Legislature had adjourned. &nbsp; “On Saturday, July 1, a ceremony will take place honoring Representative Bethell’s honor and bring attention to the new K-14 memorial interchange sign in his name,” Reed said. &nbsp;The sign will be installed at the new K-14 interchange just outside of Sterling.&nbsp;Nickerson Mayor Peggy Ruebke said she looked back at the history of the project. &nbsp;“Today, June 14, I have the honor of helping cut the ribbon, two days before the scheduled completion,” Ruebke said. &nbsp;Sterling Mayor Bob Boltz said it is nice to have the project come to an end. &nbsp;“The City of Sterling would like to thank the many partners Involved in bringing this project to fruition,” Boltz said. “Back in the 1980s, the concept of the project was shared with our community, and since then our community leaders have worked diligently to make the project a benefit to the community.”&nbsp;Boltz said Sterling has been very involved in the project when it came to representing their community and addressing the state highway system’s impact on Sterling citizens. &nbsp;Hutchinson Mayor Jon Richardson said the K-14 project represents&nbsp;more for Hutchinson businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;“For the small businesses that are located in Hutchinson that operate within the region, it's all about accessibility and convenience,” Richardson said.&nbsp;Reno County Commission chairperson Daniel Friesen commended KDOT for their work on the K-14 highway. &nbsp;“KDOT builds some of the best roads in the nation, I think we’re often in the top five as far as best roads,” Friesen said. “You can see that. All of their new work, it’s stellar work. This bridge and everything is pristine when they’re done with it. It’s an impressive feat.” &nbsp;Friesen said the communities benefiting from K-14 should feel a lot closer now.&nbsp;Rice County Commission chairperson Clay Thomas said the K-14 highway represents change and a more interconnected community among those peppered along it. &nbsp;“The world has gotten small enough that what benefits us in Sterling now helps benefit Nickerson and vice-versa, we’re all thinking together on this,” Thomas said. “For us this is an immediate relief to some of our infrastructure.”&nbsp;Thomas said it is going to be interesting to see what the rest of the benefits of the new highway are, but he believes the communities along the route are fortunate to have forward-thinking and thorough people on projects like K-14. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob Bergkamp Construction Co. Inc., of Wichita, was the primary contractor for the K-14 highway project.&nbsp;The new K-14 alignment opened Wednesday afternoon. &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;

Ribbon cutting brings dignitaries to new K-14

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas reminds us that going to the pump was particularly painful in June 2022.

"This week marks the one year anniversary of the most expensive average gas prices ever," Steward said. "Those took place last June at this time. On June 14, 2022, we saw the national record of $5.01 per gallon. The following day on June 15, Kansas reached its record of $4.67 a gallon."

That's not where we are this year. Average gas prices are nowhere close to $4 a gallon.

"Today's Kansas average is $3.24 a gallon," Steward said. "That compares, again, to our record of $4.67 a year ago tomorrow and nationally, we're at $3.59 a gallon. That's exactly one year after a record of $5.01 per gallon. Much lower prices at the pump. Very easy to budget for gas this summer for your summer road trips as compared to last year."

The fundamentals behind the price are in favor of the motorist a little more this year.

"We're seeing strong demand this summer," Steward said. "A lot of people out on the roads and starting off their summer vacations. In recent weeks, we've seen a very robust demand for gas, but the low crude oil prices have sort of balanced that out."

Crude oil was still below $70 a barrel as of Wednesday morning. Last year at this time, it ran around $120 per barrel.

<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/2021/9/1631897543449.jpeg" alt="CHS Refinery-McPherson-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>CHS Refinery-McPherson-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas reminds us that going to the pump was particularly painful in June 2022."This week marks the one year anniversary of the most expensive average gas prices ever," Steward said. "Those took place last June at this time. On June 14, 2022, we saw the national record of $5.01 per gallon. The following day on June 15, Kansas reached its record of $4.67 a gallon."That's not where we are this year. Average gas prices are nowhere close to $4 a gallon.Reno $3.11McPherson $3.13Harvey $3.17Sedgwick $3.24Kingman $3.20Pratt $3.31Stafford $3.29Rice $3.23"Today's Kansas average is $3.24 a gallon," Steward said. "That compares, again, to our record of $4.67 a year ago tomorrow and nationally, we're at $3.59 a gallon. That's exactly one year after a record of $5.01 per gallon. Much lower prices at the pump. Very easy to budget for gas this summer for your summer road trips as compared to last year."The fundamentals behind the price are in favor of the motorist a little more this year."We're seeing strong demand this summer," Steward said. "A lot of people out on the roads and starting off their summer vacations. In recent weeks, we've seen a very robust demand for gas, but the low crude oil prices have sort of balanced that out."Crude oil was still below $70 a barrel as of Wednesday morning. Last year at this time, it ran around $120 per barrel.<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;

Gas prices well below last year's records

NEWTON, Kan. — At Tuesday night’s meeting, the City Commission began a discussion about possibly making City parks and trails throughout the community tobacco-free.

In April, representatives of the Healthy Harvey Coalition requested that the City consider a policy against the use of tobacco products in public parks. They presented large containers of cigarette butts that had been collected by high school volunteers in local parks and described the hazards of second-hand smoke, especially to children playing. The Commission directed City staff to review the issue and bring back possible options.

City staff on Tuesday brought back a recommendation for a resolution establishing an administrative policy prohibiting tobacco use in City parks, including smoking, vaping, and chewing. Signage would be provided using funds from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Violations of the policy would not be criminal in nature, but violators could be asked to cease tobacco use or leave the park property.

Commissioners asked about including smoking cessation information on the signage or possibly limiting the tobacco-free areas to just the playgrounds or areas around the sports fields.

Commissioners will continue to seek resident feedback about the change and will consider adoption of a policy at a future meeting.

<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/2023/6/1686755854702.png" alt="City of Newton Contributed Photo" />
 <figcaption>City of Newton Contributed Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>City of NewtonNEWTON, Kan. — At Tuesday night’s meeting, the City Commission began a discussion about possibly making City parks and trails throughout the community tobacco-free.In April, representatives of the Healthy Harvey Coalition requested that the City consider a policy against the use of tobacco products in public parks. They presented large containers of cigarette butts that had been collected by high school volunteers in local parks and described the hazards of second-hand smoke, especially to children playing. The Commission directed City staff to review the issue and bring back possible options.City staff on Tuesday brought back a recommendation for a resolution establishing an administrative policy prohibiting tobacco use in City parks, including smoking, vaping, and chewing. Signage would be provided using funds from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.Violations of the policy would not be criminal in nature, but violators could be asked to cease tobacco use or leave the park property.Commissioners asked about including smoking cessation information on the signage or possibly limiting the tobacco-free areas to just the playgrounds or areas around the sports fields.Commissioners will continue to seek resident feedback about the change and will consider adoption of a policy at a future meeting.<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;

Newton discusses making parks tobacco-free

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Construction will begin in the downtown area beginning on Friday, June 16th. 

This phase of the project will be the onyx seal which will entail sealing the previous layer of aggregate. 

Please see the above map for locations of closures. All businesses affected will receive a handout with more details.

All cars must be off the street for the entire area being seal coated.

The street will be closed to all traffic during those days.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686753290762.jpeg" alt="Downtown Closures Hutch June 2023" />
 <figcaption>Downtown Closures Hutch June 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>City of HutchinsonHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Construction will begin in the downtown area beginning on Friday, June 16th. This phase of the project will be the onyx seal which will entail sealing the previous layer of aggregate. Please see the above map for locations of closures. All businesses affected will receive a handout with more details.All cars must be off the street for the entire area being seal coated.The street will be closed to all traffic during those days.Pedestrian access will be maintained.Dates could move, depending on weather.<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;

Downtown street closures start Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department is proud to announce the completion of Fire Station 1, 2222 North Main Street and you're invted to see it on Thursday.

"Tomorrow at 3 p.m., we'll be having a ribbon cutting ceremony," said Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer. "Actually, we'll be uncoupling a fire hose, instead of cutting a ribbon, more of a tradition in our line of work, followed by an open house. If you can't make it Thursday, we have one Saturday morning for families to stop by from 9 a.m. to noon."

The fire department officially starts operating out of the new building as of 8 a.m. Thursday.

"We're pretty excited about the whole process," Beer said. "Having local people, Wiens Construction, Mann and Company Architects, keeping it local, if you don't see the pride in ownership in that, going through the whole process. The building, it looks beautiful. They did a wonderful job in construction. The building is going to be here for 100 plus years."

The new station replaces a 1950s era building that was the previous Station 1 just down the street at 20th and Main.

"We just put polished concrete throughout the whole entire building," Beer said. "There's no carpet, no tile, any type of flooring besides concrete. Come on down, take a look and I'll be happy to show you all the changes, because this is truly a game changer for the City of Hutch."

The new facility is focused on decreasing the risk of cancer for firefighters by incorporating separate gear storage and decontamination areas to clean contaminated gear and equipment, keeping it away from the living area of the firefighters while they are on duty.

<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/2023/5/1685055244533.jpeg" alt="New Fire Station 1-Photo by Judd Weil" />
 <figcaption>New Fire Station 1-Photo by Judd Weil</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Fire Department is proud to announce the completion of Fire Station 1, 2222 North Main Street and you're invted to see it on Thursday."Tomorrow at 3 p.m., we'll be having a ribbon cutting ceremony," said Hutchinson Fire Chief Steven Beer. "Actually, we'll be uncoupling a fire hose, instead of cutting a ribbon, more of a tradition in our line of work, followed by an open house. If you can't make it Thursday, we have one Saturday morning for families to stop by from 9 a.m. to noon."The fire department officially starts operating out of the new building as of 8 a.m. Thursday."We're pretty excited about the whole process," Beer said. "Having local people, Wiens Construction, Mann and Company Architects, keeping it local, if you don't see the pride in ownership in that, going through the whole process. The building, it looks beautiful. They did a wonderful job in construction. The building is going to be here for 100 plus years."The new station replaces a 1950s era building that was the previous Station 1 just down the street at 20th and Main."We just put polished concrete throughout the whole entire building," Beer said. "There's no carpet, no tile, any type of flooring besides concrete. Come on down, take a look and I'll be happy to show you all the changes, because this is truly a game changer for the City of Hutch."The new facility is focused on decreasing the risk of cancer for firefighters by incorporating separate gear storage and decontamination areas to clean contaminated gear and equipment, keeping it away from the living area of the firefighters while they are on duty.<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;

Open House for new fire station Thursday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners discussed the Yoder and HABIT sewer combination project at length on Tuesday. 

The board spent nearly an hour batting ideas back and forth, because they ended up being faced with two problems. The first is that the estimate for the work to combine the sewer districts doubled from $3 million to $6 million. 

This caused chairman Daniel Friesen to ask if there is any appetite for the City of Hutchinson to add Yoder and HABIT's 250 customers to their system and whether that would even be viable. 

Back when the project was originally considered, that idea was shut down by the then city manager, but Public Works Director Don Brittain said that was two city managers ago, so he doesn't know what they would think now.

The other piece is that the landowner who is selling the county ground on which to build the newer, larger lagoons wants their money sooner than originally thought and the commission needs to decide how to pay for that. That cost is $350,000. The commission has two options.

"One is ARPA, the other is temporary notes," said Friesen. "We can put them both on the agenda. You can put your recommendation on it in the agenda packet. We can debate it in two weeks."

The larger discussion between the city and the county is likely going to be combined with an already existing conversation the two groups were going to have next month anyway related to the water line needed to mitigate the nitrate problem in Yoder Water District 101.

"Commissioner Friesen and I are probably meeting with the Chamber and the city, hopefully on July 25," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "Hopefully, we can get the Mayor and the chair and the Chamber staff to discuss the water rates and water issue. That's what he was referring to in July."

The only reason the chamber is in that discussion is because the chamber would like to see the line built with enough capacity to allow for connection to a future industrial park south of South Hutchinson. The deal between the city and the county is already done, except for deciding how much they would charge for the water. That, again, is separate from the sewer question.

<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>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners discussed the Yoder and HABIT sewer combination project at length on Tuesday. The board spent nearly an hour batting ideas back and forth, because they ended up being faced with two problems. The first is that the estimate for the work to combine the sewer districts doubled from $3 million to $6 million. This caused chairman Daniel Friesen to ask if there is any appetite for the City of Hutchinson to add Yoder and HABIT's 250 customers to their system and whether that would even be viable. Back when the project was originally considered, that idea was shut down by the then city manager, but Public Works Director Don Brittain said that was two city managers ago, so he doesn't know what they would think now.The other piece is that the landowner who is selling the county ground on which to build the newer, larger lagoons wants their money sooner than originally thought and the commission needs to decide how to pay for that. That cost is $350,000. The commission has two options."One is ARPA, the other is temporary notes," said Friesen. "We can put them both on the agenda. You can put your recommendation on it in the agenda packet. We can debate it in two weeks."The larger discussion between the city and the county is likely going to be combined with an already existing conversation the two groups were going to have next month anyway related to the water line needed to mitigate the nitrate problem in Yoder Water District 101."Commissioner Friesen and I are probably meeting with the Chamber and the city, hopefully on July 25," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "Hopefully, we can get the Mayor and the chair and the Chamber staff to discuss the water rates and water issue. That's what he was referring to in July."The only reason the chamber is in that discussion is because the chamber would like to see the line built with enough capacity to allow for connection to a future industrial park south of South Hutchinson. The deal between the city and the county is already done, except for deciding how much they would charge for the water. That, again, is separate from the sewer question.<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;

Yoder and HABIT sewer project leaves commission with questions

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Family Community Theatre is ready to present Clue this weekend in Hutchinson.

"Clue, the play, is based on the movie, which is based on the board game," said director Chelsey Juenemann. "The movie came out in the 1980s and it's your classic whodunit murder mystery. You have all the guests that come to Boddy Manor and lots of deaths are happening."

Wadsworth was played by Tim Curry in the film adaptation. FCT has their own Tim playing him in Hutchinson, Tim Haas.

"Wadsworth is the British butler," Haas said. "Kind of runs the show throughout the entire play, keeping the guests on their toes and walking everybody through the murder mystery, sort of just keeping everything on the go."

This play has an all adult cast, but the kids will love it, too.

"We keep it family friendly, even with the murder mystery going on,"&nbsp;Juenemann said. "The show will last approximately two hours with a 15-minute intermission."

The curtain goes up Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. at the Flag Theatre at 310 North Main in Hutchinson.

Tickets are available at Absolutely Home, Bookends Book Store at <a href="http://www.familycommunitytheater.org">www.familycommunitytheater.org</a> or at the Flag Theatre 1 hour prior to the show.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686660971342.jpeg" alt="Clue On Stage-Courtesy FCT" />
 <figcaption>Clue On Stage-Courtesy FCT</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Family Community Theatre is ready to present Clue this weekend in Hutchinson."Clue, the play, is based on the movie, which is based on the board game," said director Chelsey Juenemann. "The movie came out in the 1980s and it's your classic whodunit murder mystery. You have all the guests that come to Boddy Manor and lots of deaths are happening."Wadsworth was played by Tim Curry in the film adaptation. FCT has their own Tim playing him in Hutchinson, Tim Haas."Wadsworth is the British butler," Haas said. "Kind of runs the show throughout the entire play, keeping the guests on their toes and walking everybody through the murder mystery, sort of just keeping everything on the go."This play has an all adult cast, but the kids will love it, too."We keep it family friendly, even with the murder mystery going on,"&nbsp;Juenemann said. "The show will last approximately two hours with a 15-minute intermission."The curtain goes up Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. at the Flag Theatre at 310 North Main in Hutchinson.Tickets are available at Absolutely Home, Bookends Book Store at <a href="http://www.familycommunitytheater.org">www.familycommunitytheater.org</a> or at the Flag Theatre 1 hour prior to the show.<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;

FCT to perform CLUE

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Center is providing camps for kids this month and next at 405 North Washington.

"Two groups will meet the last two weeks of June and the last two weeks of July to learn about and create art," said board member Barbara Withrow. "When I say two groups, that's two age groups."

The camps are June 19 to 30 and July 17 to 28. Each daily session is $5.

"You'll be kind of split off according to grade level and skills," Withrow said. "We want kids to be successful at creating art. It's four days a week and then Friday is a free make up day, so if they have to miss for any reason, they can come in on Friday and make up what they missed."

Children age 6 to 9 will meet earlier in the morning, with children age 10-13 later in the day. The younger group meets from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and the older group meets from 11 a.m. to noon.&nbsp;

"They're going to learn about interacting with other kids," Withrow said. "They're going to learn about themselves. They're going to see the world in a different way."

Registration is limited to 20 students per class. Register online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp?fbclid=IwAR1H1q7MwqqfY_XCb8Vr8npPntx3Upm9wPGp3nWgZ4pAiA4d9lfiJPfqwCQ" target="_blank">https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp</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/2020/6/1591379933396.png" alt="Hutchinson Art Center" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Art Center is providing camps for kids this month and next at 405 North Washington."Two groups will meet the last two weeks of June and the last two weeks of July to learn about and create art," said board member Barbara Withrow. "When I say two groups, that's two age groups."The camps are June 19 to 30 and July 17 to 28. Each daily session is $5."You'll be kind of split off according to grade level and skills," Withrow said. "We want kids to be successful at creating art. It's four days a week and then Friday is a free make up day, so if they have to miss for any reason, they can come in on Friday and make up what they missed."Children age 6 to 9 will meet earlier in the morning, with children age 10-13 later in the day. The younger group meets from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and the older group meets from 11 a.m. to noon.&nbsp;"They're going to learn about interacting with other kids," Withrow said. "They're going to learn about themselves. They're going to see the world in a different way."Registration is limited to 20 students per class. Register online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp?fbclid=IwAR1H1q7MwqqfY_XCb8Vr8npPntx3Upm9wPGp3nWgZ4pAiA4d9lfiJPfqwCQ" target="_blank">https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp</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;

Hutchinson Art Center hosting camps in June and July

RENO COUNTY —&nbsp;During their June 13 meeting, the Reno County Commission discussed removing fireworks restrictions. Commissioners also talked about working with the City of Hutchinson so that both the city and county have similar regulations. 

The subject is currently on the Tuesday, June 27 Board of County Commissioners agenda for discussion and to make a decision.

Reno County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said that fireworks emitting a shower of sparks more than six feet are prohibited under the current county resolution. Commissioners directed Hoffman to draft an updated resolution allowing such fireworks.

Commissioner Randy Parks said that he is strongly in favor of working with the City of Hutchinson to remove the fireworks restrictions.

Reno County’s current fireworks resolution can be found <a href="https://www.renogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/101/FireworksRes?bidId=">here</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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624553779980.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reno CountyRENO COUNTY —&nbsp;During their June 13 meeting, the Reno County Commission discussed removing fireworks restrictions. Commissioners also talked about working with the City of Hutchinson so that both the city and county have similar regulations. The subject is currently on the Tuesday, June 27 Board of County Commissioners agenda for discussion and to make a decision.Reno County Counselor Patrick Hoffman said that fireworks emitting a shower of sparks more than six feet are prohibited under the current county resolution. Commissioners directed Hoffman to draft an updated resolution allowing such fireworks.Commissioner Randy Parks said that he is strongly in favor of working with the City of Hutchinson to remove the fireworks restrictions.Reno County’s current fireworks resolution can be found <a href="https://www.renogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/101/FireworksRes?bidId=">here</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;

Reno County Commission plans to remove fireworks restrictions

SMALLVILLE., Kan. —&nbsp;Smallville Festival continues Friday, June 16, with events dedicated to celebrating Smallville's real life Supermen and Supergirls with Community Heroes Day.&nbsp;

The<a href="https://cosmo.org/">&nbsp;Cosmosphere</a>&nbsp;will be offering <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/14ac59be-5cd9-40a2-aa2a-078e1d1641bd">a BOGO deal all day</a>.&nbsp;

First responders, including police,&nbsp;sheriffs, fire and EMS, and 911 dispatchers, will have the opportunity to buy one All-Access Mission Pass and get one free of charge on June 16.&nbsp;

Then from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., stop by the Reno County Museum for Thank a First Responder. Meet local Smallville heroes and thank them for their service to their community.&nbsp;

While at the Reno County Museum, do not forget to tour the&nbsp;From Farm to Fortress: Smallville’s Legendary Journey exhibit. The exhibit is dedicated to the history of Smallville.&nbsp;

Then wind down the evening with a free movie at Smallville's Historic Fox Theatre. At 7 p.m., they will have a free showing of the movie, DC League of Super Pets.&nbsp;

Smallville Festival will continue to be celebrated on Saturday, June 17.&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;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1685182934221.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SMALLVILLE., Kan. —&nbsp;Smallville Festival continues Friday, June 16, with events dedicated to celebrating Smallville's real life Supermen and Supergirls with Community Heroes Day.&nbsp;The<a href="https://cosmo.org/">&nbsp;Cosmosphere</a>&nbsp;will be offering <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/14ac59be-5cd9-40a2-aa2a-078e1d1641bd">a BOGO deal all day</a>.&nbsp;First responders, including police,&nbsp;sheriffs, fire and EMS, and 911 dispatchers, will have the opportunity to buy one All-Access Mission Pass and get one free of charge on June 16.&nbsp;Then from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., stop by the Reno County Museum for Thank a First Responder. Meet local Smallville heroes and thank them for their service to their community.&nbsp;While at the Reno County Museum, do not forget to tour the&nbsp;From Farm to Fortress: Smallville’s Legendary Journey exhibit. The exhibit is dedicated to the history of Smallville.&nbsp;Then wind down the evening with a free movie at Smallville's Historic Fox Theatre. At 7 p.m., they will have a free showing of the movie, DC League of Super Pets.&nbsp;Smallville Festival will continue to be celebrated on Saturday, June 17.&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;&nbsp;

Smallville Festival Community Heroes Day Friday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Reno County Head Start, Early Education Center of Reno County, and Hutchinson Public Schools are accepting preschool &amp; Early Head Start applications for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Call 620-615-5750 today to schedule your enrollment appointment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686657234244.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Early Education Center" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Early Education Center</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp; Reno County Head Start, Early Education Center of Reno County, and Hutchinson Public Schools are accepting preschool &amp; Early Head Start applications for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year.&nbsp; &nbsp;Call 620-615-5750 today to schedule your enrollment appointment.<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;

Head Start applications being taken in Hutchinson

RENO COUNTY —&nbsp;<a href="https://techinc.org/">TECH</a> held an open house at the Adult Life Skills (ALS) building to celebrate <a href="https://techinc.org/techcelebrates50years">their 50th Anniversary</a> with the Hutchinson community on June 8.

Over 125 people made their way through the recently remodeled ALS building, taking time to look through photos and memorabilia from the past 50 years of the agency's history.

The evening also included videos of well-wishes from past and current TECH staff, TECH families, and community supporters and even a few old clips of Maurice Cummings, TECH's first President and CEO.&nbsp;

Guests were also able to shop TECH Artwork and participate in a community art project that was hosted by Kara Brown and Sam Carriker, both TECH Art Coaches. 

The highlight of the evening was a brief moment of remarks by Kevin Hess, TECH's current President/CEO, Brenda Maxey, the former President/CEO of TECH, as well as Melva Cummings and Carolyn Spexarth, the wife and daughter of the late Maurice Cummings.

Carolyn Spexarth recalled growing up and helping in the TECH Work Center. 

"The biggest lesson in all of that is that he was just giving people dignity," Spexarth said. "He'd say 'We need to work. Everyone needs to work and contribute. Everyone has a part to play in this world.' That's a lesson that our whole family learned from him." 

She also talked a lot about Maurice's dedication to advocating for people with disabilities and how passionate he was about providing opportunities to the people served by TECH. 

"He'd get really 'righteous anger' when people weren't given the dignity they needed and they were shoved aside," Spexarth said. "He thought everyone needed to be heard, seen, known, and loved and wanted to give those opportunities to our family and to the community."

She went on to recall the experience Maurice and the staff at TECH faced when proposing the very first group TECH Group home.&nbsp; 

"He would attend city wide council meetings and were met with resistance by the neighbors and he finally won them over," Spexarth said. "The neighbors were scared the group home would devalue their property and within the first few months of the TECH house being completed, they came to realize that the TECH clients were the best neighbors."

Carolyn and Melva shared numerous memories from the early days of TECH when Maurice was leading the organization. 

"I'm just really grateful that people believed in my dad's vision for this (TECH). He hired the right people at the right time for the right job. He was a visionary. He was a worker but he was a visionary more than a manager," Spexarth said. "He had a gift of encouragement." 

She closed with saying, "Thank you for your support - than you to the staff. I know this is not always an easy job but you are here to make this a better place. People are flourishing beyond just survival and it's beautiful to see."

Melva Cummings said, "he's looking down at us right now."

Brenda Maxey was the President and CEO of TECH after Maurice retired in 1998 up until last summer. 

Maxey spoke to the crowd at the 50th Anniversary Celebration about the importance of TECH's work in advocacy. 

"I remember riding with Maurice to Topeka for one of his many day trips to the Capitol, where we spent our time speaking with legislators about important issues that affected the people served by TECH and all people with disabilities," Maxey said. "That work was so important as it paved the way for opportunities that may not have otherwise been available to individuals served by TECH."&nbsp;

She recalled many stories from her days with the agency, including a fond memory of several TECH families and people served by TECH going to the Capitol in Topeka on "Push Day" to share stories about themselves or their loved one and how the decisions made by legislators have an impact on opportunities available to them. 

"One person in particular that joined us, Donald Wilson, shared his story with everyone we met. For those of you that don't know Donald, his story is remarkable. Prior to joining TECH, Donald lived in institutions and growing up, he and his family had accepted that's what his life was destined to be," Maxey said. "After TECH opened in 1973, doors were opened for individuals such as Donald. He moved into a group home with TECH and flourished." 

"One of the moments I will never forget was Donald giving testimony to a legislative committee about his life with TECH and what a positive impact it made on him."

Maxey delivered a clear message message to guests.

"It's up to all of us in this room to continue advocating and being a voice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community so they have the same opportunities that you and I are afforded."

Kevin Hess, the current President and CEO of TECH recalled how the agency has evolved over the years. Hess&nbsp;acknowledged that the world was different 50 years ago for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

"The opportunities beyond graduation from high school were limited and institutions were commonplace," Hess said. "At that time, independent living seemed like a far fetched concept to many." 

While there have been changes to the services and programs offered by TECH throughout the years, the dedication of the staff and support of the community has remained steady. 

"TECH has been able to pave the way for individuals with disabilities to have choices, opportunities, and a voice for their future," said Hess.

He closed with a message of gratitude towards the TECH staff that have helped bring the agency to where it is today as well as the support of the community for the work that they are doing.&nbsp;He acknowledged individuals in the room that were employees of the organization.

 "All of this wouldn't be possible without the dedication and passion of TECH team members over the past 50 years," said Hess.&nbsp;

At the end of the evening, Hess invited Kelli Bringle to lead the group in singing "Happy Birthday" to TECH.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686692736132.jpeg" alt="TECH has been dedicated for 50s years to making sure that disabled people can have a quality of life in their community. Photo: TECH&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>TECH has been dedicated for 50s years to making sure that disabled people can have a quality of life in their community. Photo: TECH&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —&nbsp;<a href="https://techinc.org/">TECH</a> held an open house at the Adult Life Skills (ALS) building to celebrate <a href="https://techinc.org/techcelebrates50years">their 50th Anniversary</a> with the Hutchinson community on June 8. Over 125 people made their way through the recently remodeled ALS building, taking time to look through photos and memorabilia from the past 50 years of the agency's history.The evening also included videos of well-wishes from past and current TECH staff, TECH families, and community supporters and even a few old clips of Maurice Cummings, TECH's first President and CEO.&nbsp;Guests were also able to shop TECH Artwork and participate in a community art project that was hosted by Kara Brown and Sam Carriker, both TECH Art Coaches. The highlight of the evening was a brief moment of remarks by Kevin Hess, TECH's current President/CEO, Brenda Maxey, the former President/CEO of TECH, as well as Melva Cummings and Carolyn Spexarth, the wife and daughter of the late Maurice Cummings.Carolyn Spexarth recalled growing up and helping in the TECH Work Center. "The biggest lesson in all of that is that he was just giving people dignity," Spexarth said. "He'd say 'We need to work. Everyone needs to work and contribute. Everyone has a part to play in this world.' That's a lesson that our whole family learned from him." She also talked a lot about Maurice's dedication to advocating for people with disabilities and how passionate he was about providing opportunities to the people served by TECH. "He'd get really 'righteous anger' when people weren't given the dignity they needed and they were shoved aside," Spexarth said. "He thought everyone needed to be heard, seen, known, and loved and wanted to give those opportunities to our family and to the community."She went on to recall the experience Maurice and the staff at TECH faced when proposing the very first group TECH Group home.&nbsp; "He would attend city wide council meetings and were met with resistance by the neighbors and he finally won them over," Spexarth said. "The neighbors were scared the group home would devalue their property and within the first few months of the TECH house being completed, they came to realize that the TECH clients were the best neighbors."Carolyn and Melva shared numerous memories from the early days of TECH when Maurice was leading the organization. "I'm just really grateful that people believed in my dad's vision for this (TECH). He hired the right people at the right time for the right job. He was a visionary. He was a worker but he was a visionary more than a manager," Spexarth said. "He had a gift of encouragement." She closed with saying, "Thank you for your support - than you to the staff. I know this is not always an easy job but you are here to make this a better place. People are flourishing beyond just survival and it's beautiful to see."Melva Cummings said, "he's looking down at us right now."Brenda Maxey was the President and CEO of TECH after Maurice retired in 1998 up until last summer. Maxey spoke to the crowd at the 50th Anniversary Celebration about the importance of TECH's work in advocacy. "I remember riding with Maurice to Topeka for one of his many day trips to the Capitol, where we spent our time speaking with legislators about important issues that affected the people served by TECH and all people with disabilities," Maxey said. "That work was so important as it paved the way for opportunities that may not have otherwise been available to individuals served by TECH."&nbsp;She recalled many stories from her days with the agency, including a fond memory of several TECH families and people served by TECH going to the Capitol in Topeka on "Push Day" to share stories about themselves or their loved one and how the decisions made by legislators have an impact on opportunities available to them. "One person in particular that joined us, Donald Wilson, shared his story with everyone we met. For those of you that don't know Donald, his story is remarkable. Prior to joining TECH, Donald lived in institutions and growing up, he and his family had accepted that's what his life was destined to be," Maxey said. "After TECH opened in 1973, doors were opened for individuals such as Donald. He moved into a group home with TECH and flourished." "One of the moments I will never forget was Donald giving testimony to a legislative committee about his life with TECH and what a positive impact it made on him."Maxey delivered a clear message message to guests."It's up to all of us in this room to continue advocating and being a voice for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community so they have the same opportunities that you and I are afforded."Kevin Hess, the current President and CEO of TECH recalled how the agency has evolved over the years. Hess&nbsp;acknowledged that the world was different 50 years ago for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. "The opportunities beyond graduation from high school were limited and institutions were commonplace," Hess said. "At that time, independent living seemed like a far fetched concept to many." While there have been changes to the services and programs offered by TECH throughout the years, the dedication of the staff and support of the community has remained steady. "TECH has been able to pave the way for individuals with disabilities to have choices, opportunities, and a voice for their future," said Hess.He closed with a message of gratitude towards the TECH staff that have helped bring the agency to where it is today as well as the support of the community for the work that they are doing.&nbsp;He acknowledged individuals in the room that were employees of the organization. "All of this wouldn't be possible without the dedication and passion of TECH team members over the past 50 years," said Hess.&nbsp;At the end of the evening, Hess invited Kelli Bringle to lead the group in singing "Happy Birthday" to TECH.&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;

TECH celebrates 50 years of real community

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Opportunity tickets are
available for one of two large quilts used by Stage 9’s production of
Quilters.


The large quilts, Lonestar and Schoolhouse&nbsp;measure
100”x100”.  Opportunities for those are $2 each or 6 for $10.

Also, 15 individual blocks used in the production will be&nbsp;framed
and quilted and finished at 32”x32”.

Tickets for those are $1 each or 6 for $5.  


Winners
will choose their block based upon order of drawing.

The opportunities are a fundraiser for Stage 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686655105333.jpeg" alt="Quilters Lonestar-Photo Courtesy Stage 9" />
 <figcaption>Quilters Lonestar-Photo Courtesy Stage 9</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Opportunity tickets are
available for one of two large quilts used by Stage 9’s production of
Quilters.
The large quilts, Lonestar and Schoolhouse&nbsp;measure
100”x100”. Opportunities for those are $2 each or 6 for $10.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686655127228.jpeg" alt="Quilters Schoolhouse-Photo Courtesy Stage 9" />
 <figcaption>Quilters Schoolhouse-Photo Courtesy Stage 9</figcaption>
 </figure>Also, 15 individual blocks used in the production will be&nbsp;framed
and quilted and finished at 32”x32”.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686655195595.jpeg" alt="Quilters Individual Block-Photo Courtesy Stage 9" />
 <figcaption>Quilters Individual Block-Photo Courtesy Stage 9</figcaption>
 </figure>Tickets for those are $1 each or 6 for $5. 
Winners
will choose their block based upon order of drawing.The opportunities are a fundraiser for Stage 9.<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;

Opportunity to win quilts from "Quilters" available

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;

6/14/2023 1:17 AM-David	Gary Kusiak-Failure to Appear

6/13/2023 11:28 PM-John	Adrian Payne-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage

6/13/2023 8:56 PM-Caden	Scott Engstrom-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; DL Violation; No Drivers License; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

6/13/2023 7:00 PM-Lucas	Adam Wade Hall-Drugs; Distribute Opiates/Opium/Narcotic (Cocaine, Crack, Amphetamine); 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; Drugs; Distribute Substance containing Heroin / Methamphetamine; 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Drugs; Arrange sale/purchase of controlled substance using a communication facility; Endangering a Child; AGGRAVATED; Expose to the Sale/Manufacture Methamphetamine; Drugs; Distribute Opiates/Opium/Narcotic (Cocaine, Crack, Amphetamine); 3.5g to &lt; 100g; within 1000' of school; Drugs; Arrange sale/purchase of controlled substance using a communication facility; Failure to Appear

6/13/2023 6:28 PM-Joshua	Joseph Schultz-In Transit From-To Other Agency

6/13/2023 3:35 PM-Kayann	Jean Glasgow-Failure to Appear

6/13/2023 1:51 PM-Glynn	Allen Dilbeck-Probation Violation

6/13/2023 9:59 AM-Jon	Edward Whitney-Failure to Appear

6/13/2023 7:22 AM-Lakiyah	Jasmyn Grace Sain-Failure to Appear

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;6/14/2023 1:17 AM-David	Gary Kusiak-Failure to Appear6/13/2023 11:28 PM-John	Adrian Payne-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Alcohol; Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverage6/13/2023 8:56 PM-Caden	Scott Engstrom-Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; DL Violation; No Drivers License; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant6/13/2023 7:00 PM-Lucas	Adam Wade Hall-Drugs; Distribute Opiates/Opium/Narcotic (Cocaine, Crack, Amphetamine); 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Possession of Paraphernalia with Intent to Manufacture/Plant/Cultivate/Distribute Controlled Substance; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of marijuana; Drugs; Distribute Substance containing Heroin / Methamphetamine; 3.5g to &lt; 100g; Drugs; Arrange sale/purchase of controlled substance using a communication facility; Endangering a Child; AGGRAVATED; Expose to the Sale/Manufacture Methamphetamine; Drugs; Distribute Opiates/Opium/Narcotic (Cocaine, Crack, Amphetamine); 3.5g to &lt; 100g; within 1000' of school; Drugs; Arrange sale/purchase of controlled substance using a communication facility; Failure to Appear6/13/2023 6:28 PM-Joshua	Joseph Schultz-In Transit From-To Other Agency6/13/2023 3:35 PM-Kayann	Jean Glasgow-Failure to Appear6/13/2023 1:51 PM-Glynn	Allen Dilbeck-Probation Violation6/13/2023 9:59 AM-Jon	Edward Whitney-Failure to Appear6/13/2023 7:22 AM-Lakiyah	Jasmyn Grace Sain-Failure to Appear

Daily Bookings

Additional information from Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain has been added to this story.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners approved the agreement that lets them know which sections of road are now theirs because KDOT built the new K-14 at their meeting on Tuesday.

KDOT is transferring segments of old K-14 along with new alignments of Dean Road, West 95th Avenue, Old K-14 from Dean Road to the eastern Nickerson city limit, Old K-14 from the western Nickerson city limit to the Reno and Rice County line, new box bridge Br. No. 17-78-33.82 and various drainage structures on 56th, Dean Road, 82nd, 95th, Nickerson Road and Riverton Road.

In exchange for taking these sections of road over going forward, KDOT will pay the county $400,000. That money is due to the county within 30 days of the transfer date.

"I told them that we couldn't maintain our current standard without additional equipment," said Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain. "That $400,000 was for a truck, plow, spreader, tractor and a 15 foot mower. I don't believe that's ever been done before. It took me two years of negotiating this. That's what that money is for. KDOT doesn't determine how we spend that money. That's your final decision, but that's what I negotiated that money for."

The bridge being inherited by the county is one over the Arkansas River.

"We will inherit all that," Brittain said. "Approximately around 11 miles. It would have been about 12, but there's a mile of the current road between Yaggy and Dean Road that they are going to tear up, KDOT is, so we won't inherit that. That's another burden on us. Since I've been here, the state, we've inherited around 31 miles since I've been here, of additional highway."

The new K-14 alignment is due to open Wednesday.

Also, Brittain told Hutch Post in an email Tuesday that the money is in addition to KDOT performing repair work necessary to restore the road to meet local or state condition. In the case of the turnback miles that means a mill and overlay on all the roadway the county is to receive and structures will be repaired and the Arkansas River Bridge west of Nickerson will have a new east approach installed and a polymer overlay installed on the bridge deck.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686666373740.jpeg" alt="Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain</figcaption>
 </figure>Additional information from Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain has been added to this story.NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners approved the agreement that lets them know which sections of road are now theirs because KDOT built the new K-14 at their meeting on Tuesday.KDOT is transferring segments of old K-14 along with new alignments of Dean Road, West 95th Avenue, Old K-14 from Dean Road to the eastern Nickerson city limit, Old K-14 from the western Nickerson city limit to the Reno and Rice County line, new box bridge Br. No. 17-78-33.82 and various drainage structures on 56th, Dean Road, 82nd, 95th, Nickerson Road and Riverton Road.In exchange for taking these sections of road over going forward, KDOT will pay the county $400,000. That money is due to the county within 30 days of the transfer date."I told them that we couldn't maintain our current standard without additional equipment," said Reno County Public Works Director Don Brittain. "That $400,000 was for a truck, plow, spreader, tractor and a 15 foot mower. I don't believe that's ever been done before. It took me two years of negotiating this. That's what that money is for. KDOT doesn't determine how we spend that money. That's your final decision, but that's what I negotiated that money for."The bridge being inherited by the county is one over the Arkansas River."We will inherit all that," Brittain said. "Approximately around 11 miles. It would have been about 12, but there's a mile of the current road between Yaggy and Dean Road that they are going to tear up, KDOT is, so we won't inherit that. That's another burden on us. Since I've been here, the state, we've inherited around 31 miles since I've been here, of additional highway."The new K-14 alignment is due to open Wednesday.Also, Brittain told Hutch Post in an email Tuesday that the money is in addition to KDOT performing repair work necessary to restore the road to meet local or state condition. In the case of the turnback miles that means a mill and overlay on all the roadway the county is to receive and structures will be repaired and the Arkansas River Bridge west of Nickerson will have a new east approach installed and a polymer overlay installed on the bridge deck.<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;

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