HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County EMS announced this week that Deputy Chief David Trotter is retiring.  His last day is July 29th, 2023.  Deputy Chief Trotter has dedicated 44 years of his life to serving the community through Reno County EMS. 

"His steadfast commitment, exceptional leadership, and endless dedication have left a permanent mark on both the organization and the lives of the people it serves," the department said on social media. 

Deputy Chief Trotter began his EMS career as an Emergency Medical Technician with McPherson EMS in May 1977.  In 1979, he brought his passion for pre-hospital care to Reno County EMS and soon after pursued a Paramedic certification.  Deputy Chief Trotter served as a frontline provider until his promotion to Team Leader in 1990. 

Deputy Chief Trotter filled the roles of Team Leader, Interim EMS Chief, and Deputy Chief and assisted in advancing the standards of care and driving positive change within the EMS system always with a focus on the well-being of our community and frontline providers.

The department will be holding a reception to honor Trotter's service on July 25th, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Pavilion.

<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/2023/7/1689844170181.jpeg" alt="Deputy Chief Trotter" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Chief Trotter</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Reno County EMS announced this week that Deputy Chief David Trotter is retiring. His last day is July 29th, 2023. Deputy Chief Trotter has dedicated 44 years of his life to serving the community through Reno County EMS. "His steadfast commitment, exceptional leadership, and endless dedication have left a permanent mark on both the organization and the lives of the people it serves," the department said on social media. Deputy Chief Trotter began his EMS career as an Emergency Medical Technician with McPherson EMS in May 1977. In 1979, he brought his passion for pre-hospital care to Reno County EMS and soon after pursued a Paramedic certification. Deputy Chief Trotter served as a frontline provider until his promotion to Team Leader in 1990. Deputy Chief Trotter filled the roles of Team Leader, Interim EMS Chief, and Deputy Chief and assisted in advancing the standards of care and driving positive change within the EMS system always with a focus on the well-being of our community and frontline providers.The department will be holding a reception to honor Trotter's service on July 25th, 2023 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Pavilion.<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;

Reno County EMS Deputy Chief to retire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson 9-year-old is on to the next round in an online contest for the best kid's mullet.

Tucker Etienne is looking to receive more fan votes and collecting donations for&nbsp;<a href="https://homesforwoundedwarriors.com/">Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors</a>, a charity that helps provide mortgage free, accessible homes for wounded Veterans.&nbsp;

In the second round, they will have judges critique each mullet based upon length, style, and uniqueness, along with continuing votes and donations. During this round, the donations stay for each contestant but the votes reset.&nbsp;

You can <a href="https://www.mulletchamp.com/kids_and_teens/tucker-etienne-debra/?mibextid=Zxz2cZ&amp;fbclid=IwAR1TJGgkAc0FEgBV-tkrINhCwBlmSUYTRpGmOs8DtRvudzVOMmV7cCK3fSE">vote for Tucker's mullet online</a>&nbsp;once per day July 20 through 24.

Round 3 is the top 25 kids and the final round, which is August 7th through August 11th. 1st place wins $5,000, second place $1,000, and third place $500, along with a pair of sunglasses.

<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/2023/7/1689770125140.jpeg" alt="Tucker Etienne Round 2" />
 <figcaption>Tucker Etienne Round 2</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson 9-year-old is on to the next round in an online contest for the best kid's mullet.Tucker Etienne is looking to receive more fan votes and collecting donations for&nbsp;<a href="https://homesforwoundedwarriors.com/">Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors</a>, a charity that helps provide mortgage free, accessible homes for wounded Veterans.&nbsp; In the second round, they will have judges critique each mullet based upon length, style, and uniqueness, along with continuing votes and donations. During this round, the donations stay for each contestant but the votes reset.&nbsp;You can <a href="https://www.mulletchamp.com/kids_and_teens/tucker-etienne-debra/?mibextid=Zxz2cZ&amp;fbclid=IwAR1TJGgkAc0FEgBV-tkrINhCwBlmSUYTRpGmOs8DtRvudzVOMmV7cCK3fSE">vote for Tucker's mullet online</a>&nbsp;once per day July 20 through 24.Round 3 is the top 25 kids and the final round, which is August 7th through August 11th. 1st place wins $5,000, second place $1,000, and third place $500, along with a pair of sunglasses.<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;

Etienne on to Round 2 in mullet competition

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;

7/20/2023 12:38 AM-Desmond	Xavier Cantu-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant

7/19/2023 11:37 PM-Brandi	Lynn Harrington-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000

7/19/2023 10:35 AM-Bryce	Hunter Culley-Agg battery; Recklessly use deadly weapon

7/19/2023 10:13 AM-James	Joseph Andres-Viol protection order; Abuse order; Burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000; Making False Information; Probation Violation

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="Bars" />
 <figcaption>Bars</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;7/20/2023 12:38 AM-Desmond	Xavier Cantu-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant7/19/2023 11:37 PM-Brandi	Lynn Harrington-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,0007/19/2023 10:35 AM-Bryce	Hunter Culley-Agg battery; Recklessly use deadly weapon7/19/2023 10:13 AM-James	Joseph Andres-Viol protection order; Abuse order; Burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000; Making False Information; Probation Violation

Daily Bookings

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation, along with the Kansas State Fair have set the date for the dedication of the Capper Project for Monday, July 24, 2023 at 3 p.m. at the House of Capper on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.

The dedication will celebrate the rebuilding of the House of Capper and the opening of the Capper Cooperative Park, along with the support received from cooperatives throughout Kansas and the United States in the development of this historically significant project for the Kansas State Fair and the State of Kansas. The dedication will officially open the House of Capper and the Capper Cooperative Park which will serve as a permanent and continual tribute and educational outreach highlighting the work of former Kansas Governor and U.S. Senator Arthur Capper and the significant impact of cooperatives to our state and our country. The Capper Project has been designed and built as a longstanding celebration of cooperative principle; to educate youth and adults on the importance of cooperatives to the community and the country. Cooperatives which are also known as co-ops, are unique businesses that provide value to the people who use their services. A cooperative is a business owned and democratically controlled by the people who use its services and whose benefits are derived and distributed equitably on the basis of use. The House of Capper, the building portion of the project, has been constructed in the same architectural style and design as the original building, funded by the Capper Publications, on behalf of then Kansas Governor Arthur Capper in 1916. Thanks to Schaefer Architecture, Wichita, Kansas for the design work on the project which held fast to the original style while incorporating modern improvements and requirements. The Capper Cooperative Park leads into the House of Capper. The Park is an educational walk-through park consisting of an inviting landscape design and multiple lighted graphic storyboards which tell the story of cooperatives in the United States, commemorates the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922, and the work of U.S. Senator Arthur Capper. The storyboards have been expertly designed and written with images and information that communicate the vital work cooperatives have done and continue to do in our communities. The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation, chartered in 2003 with the mission:&nbsp;To inspire excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities. While the purpose of the Foundation is:&nbsp;To further the renovation, construction, preservation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds; to help, assist, promote, support, maintain, enhance, endow and advance the interests of the Kansas State Fair: and to encourage education of the public about the Kansas State Fair and its purpose and activities. Following the cancellation of the 2020 Kansas State Fair, the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation grew its commitment to help renovate and improve the Kansas State Fairgrounds for the betterment of the community and the State of Kansas. With the House of Capper being deemed structurally unsound in the spring of 2021, the Foundation accepted the challenge of rebuilding it. The Foundation knew that to find funding partners for the project it needed to be more significant to potential funders than rebuilding a historic structure on the Fairgrounds. When looking at the work of Arthur Capper it was noted that he co-authored the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922, which allowed for the legal formation of cooperatives in the United States. This became the perfect tie to potential funding partners to help tell the cooperative story. The Capper Project was created to rebuild a historic structure and to create the only permanent tribute to the work of cooperatives in the United States in what is now named the Capper Cooperative Park located on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. This project was first presented to the Kansas Cooperative Council in September of 2021, who immediately came on board as a Builder Level donor at $100,000 or more. In addition to the financial support, the Cooperative Council pledged their support in helping to promote the project to their member cooperatives across the State of Kansas and the country. This project came to fruition because of the financial support of the Kansas Cooperative Council and cooperatives from the state and the region. Additional Builder Level funders include Skyland Grain, LLC, ProValue Insurance, the Kansas Department of Commerce through the SPRINT Grant and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. The program on July 24 will include remarks offered by Paula Landoll Smith, President, Kansas State Fair Board; Mary McCurry, Chairman, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation; and Brandi Miller, President and CEO, Kansas Cooperative Council. In addition, the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce will do a ribbon cutting to signify the opening of the Capper Cooperative Park as a new and featured educational exhibit for the 2023 Kansas State Fair as well as open year-round for all non-fair events and activities. The public is invited to the dedication ceremony. However, the Foundation asks that you RSVP your intentions to attend to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@KansasSFF.org">info@KansasSFF.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 620-615-7388.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648217154052.jpeg" alt="House of Capper File Photo-Courtesy Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>House of Capper File Photo-Courtesy Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Fairgrounds FoundationHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation, along with the Kansas State Fair have set the date for the dedication of the Capper Project for Monday, July 24, 2023 at 3 p.m. at the House of Capper on the Kansas State Fairgrounds.The dedication will celebrate the rebuilding of the House of Capper and the opening of the Capper Cooperative Park, along with the support received from cooperatives throughout Kansas and the United States in the development of this historically significant project for the Kansas State Fair and the State of Kansas. The dedication will officially open the House of Capper and the Capper Cooperative Park which will serve as a permanent and continual tribute and educational outreach highlighting the work of former Kansas Governor and U.S. Senator Arthur Capper and the significant impact of cooperatives to our state and our country. The Capper Project has been designed and built as a longstanding celebration of cooperative principle; to educate youth and adults on the importance of cooperatives to the community and the country. Cooperatives which are also known as co-ops, are unique businesses that provide value to the people who use their services. A cooperative is a business owned and democratically controlled by the people who use its services and whose benefits are derived and distributed equitably on the basis of use. The House of Capper, the building portion of the project, has been constructed in the same architectural style and design as the original building, funded by the Capper Publications, on behalf of then Kansas Governor Arthur Capper in 1916. Thanks to Schaefer Architecture, Wichita, Kansas for the design work on the project which held fast to the original style while incorporating modern improvements and requirements. The Capper Cooperative Park leads into the House of Capper. The Park is an educational walk-through park consisting of an inviting landscape design and multiple lighted graphic storyboards which tell the story of cooperatives in the United States, commemorates the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922, and the work of U.S. Senator Arthur Capper. The storyboards have been expertly designed and written with images and information that communicate the vital work cooperatives have done and continue to do in our communities. The Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation, chartered in 2003 with the mission:&nbsp;To inspire excellence and understanding of Kansas agriculture, industry and culture through the Kansas State Fair, activities, educational programs and opportunities. While the purpose of the Foundation is:&nbsp;To further the renovation, construction, preservation and beautification of the Kansas State Fairgrounds; to help, assist, promote, support, maintain, enhance, endow and advance the interests of the Kansas State Fair: and to encourage education of the public about the Kansas State Fair and its purpose and activities. Following the cancellation of the 2020 Kansas State Fair, the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation grew its commitment to help renovate and improve the Kansas State Fairgrounds for the betterment of the community and the State of Kansas. With the House of Capper being deemed structurally unsound in the spring of 2021, the Foundation accepted the challenge of rebuilding it. The Foundation knew that to find funding partners for the project it needed to be more significant to potential funders than rebuilding a historic structure on the Fairgrounds. When looking at the work of Arthur Capper it was noted that he co-authored the Capper-Volstead Act of 1922, which allowed for the legal formation of cooperatives in the United States. This became the perfect tie to potential funding partners to help tell the cooperative story. The Capper Project was created to rebuild a historic structure and to create the only permanent tribute to the work of cooperatives in the United States in what is now named the Capper Cooperative Park located on the Kansas State Fairgrounds. This project was first presented to the Kansas Cooperative Council in September of 2021, who immediately came on board as a Builder Level donor at $100,000 or more. In addition to the financial support, the Cooperative Council pledged their support in helping to promote the project to their member cooperatives across the State of Kansas and the country. This project came to fruition because of the financial support of the Kansas Cooperative Council and cooperatives from the state and the region. Additional Builder Level funders include Skyland Grain, LLC, ProValue Insurance, the Kansas Department of Commerce through the SPRINT Grant and the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation. The program on July 24 will include remarks offered by Paula Landoll Smith, President, Kansas State Fair Board; Mary McCurry, Chairman, Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation; and Brandi Miller, President and CEO, Kansas Cooperative Council. In addition, the Hutchinson Chamber of Commerce will do a ribbon cutting to signify the opening of the Capper Cooperative Park as a new and featured educational exhibit for the 2023 Kansas State Fair as well as open year-round for all non-fair events and activities. The public is invited to the dedication ceremony. However, the Foundation asks that you RSVP your intentions to attend to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@KansasSFF.org">info@KansasSFF.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling 620-615-7388.&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;

Capper Project dedication is July 24

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved allocations of&nbsp; American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for housing related projects at their meeting on Tuesday.

"Of that money, $591,281.54 was allocated to housing NOFA projects," said Finance Director Angela Richard. "The Housing Commission is going to get their own pot of money, which I believe is around $300,000. I don't have that exact figure with me, but what we're talking about today is the city portion for the housing NOFA projects."

Three of the six projects that applied will get a portion of the funds.

"The applications were Levare Properties, this was the Davenports for the Leon," Richard said. "Their application was for a chiller to chill the 33 apartments that are in that building. Twenty of the 33 have been renovated. This $200,000 would not pay for the entire amount of the chiller. They had invested over $750,000 on this project and would be putting in additional money for the chiller. This was recommended that it be fully funded by the committee that was formed. The second application was the Landmark. As you may know, there's a project to redo the Landmark, bring it back to life. As part of that, I believe there will be 44 apartments. This would be a small contribution towards what the entire project would be. The next project was New Beginnings. New Beginnings would like to create small homes. The committee that reviewed this likes the idea that this could be a pilot project to test out the idea of small homes on lots, to see if this is something we can duplicate throughout the city and on infill properties."

The New Beginnings project will be on a lot just off of Main not far from the Eagle Media studios and will initially have two small homes on it, but be zoned and subdivided for up to three homes on that lot.

<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/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council approved allocations of&nbsp; American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for housing related projects at their meeting on Tuesday."Of that money, $591,281.54 was allocated to housing NOFA projects," said Finance Director Angela Richard. "The Housing Commission is going to get their own pot of money, which I believe is around $300,000. I don't have that exact figure with me, but what we're talking about today is the city portion for the housing NOFA projects."Three of the six projects that applied will get a portion of the funds."The applications were Levare Properties, this was the Davenports for the Leon," Richard said. "Their application was for a chiller to chill the 33 apartments that are in that building. Twenty of the 33 have been renovated. This $200,000 would not pay for the entire amount of the chiller. They had invested over $750,000 on this project and would be putting in additional money for the chiller. This was recommended that it be fully funded by the committee that was formed. The second application was the Landmark. As you may know, there's a project to redo the Landmark, bring it back to life. As part of that, I believe there will be 44 apartments. This would be a small contribution towards what the entire project would be. The next project was New Beginnings. New Beginnings would like to create small homes. The committee that reviewed this likes the idea that this could be a pilot project to test out the idea of small homes on lots, to see if this is something we can duplicate throughout the city and on infill properties."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689781087949.jpeg" alt="2023 Hutch ARPA Request Graphic" />
 <figcaption>2023 Hutch ARPA Request Graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>The New Beginnings project will be on a lot just off of Main not far from the Eagle Media studios and will initially have two small homes on it, but be zoned and subdivided for up to three homes on that lot.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

City approves ARPA funds for housing issues

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After hearing from Finance Director Angela Richard on Tuesday that the city might be able to pay off the debt for the Sports Arena early, City Council member Stuart Conklin III commented on sales tax more generally at the close of the meeting.

"Wichita's got an unrealistic low sales tax," Conklin said. "Everybody else around us, more or less is 8.6% or 9%, but not our main competitor, Wichita, which is 7.5% and has been forever and there's no movement to increase their tax. It's another really important thing that we are competing with Wichita."

Conklin notes that a $500 difference in sales tax on a $50,000 vehicle can be enough to keep buyers from making the trip to compare.

"We can compete on a level playing field," Conklin said. "When we have to start off by having a $500 fine by crossing the Reno County line from the Sedgwick County line, that makes it difficult. All of the dealerships in Wichita make that very clear to anybody from Wichita that is out shopping, saying, well, I'm going to go over to Hutchinson and shop around, we'll you're an idiot. You're going to pay their extra tax? Is that what you want to do?"

Conklin is a realist and understands that even when the Sports Arena goes off, Hutch will still be higher, but it is an important topic to continue to talk about.

"I think that we have to compete with Wichita on every front," Conklin said. "I've talked about that in the wage negotiations. I've talked about that in the budget meetings and it's an appropriate thing to talk about here. I know we're not discussing it right now, but I just think that needs to be understood that is a real stumbling block on bigger ticket items."

The state sales tax rate is 6.5%, amounts above that are collected by local jurisdictions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689774155078.jpeg" alt="Stuart Conklin" />
 <figcaption>Stuart Conklin</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — After hearing from Finance Director Angela Richard on Tuesday that the city might be able to pay off the debt for the Sports Arena early, City Council member Stuart Conklin III commented on sales tax more generally at the close of the meeting."Wichita's got an unrealistic low sales tax," Conklin said. "Everybody else around us, more or less is 8.6% or 9%, but not our main competitor, Wichita, which is 7.5% and has been forever and there's no movement to increase their tax. It's another really important thing that we are competing with Wichita."Conklin notes that a $500 difference in sales tax on a $50,000 vehicle can be enough to keep buyers from making the trip to compare."We can compete on a level playing field," Conklin said. "When we have to start off by having a $500 fine by crossing the Reno County line from the Sedgwick County line, that makes it difficult. All of the dealerships in Wichita make that very clear to anybody from Wichita that is out shopping, saying, well, I'm going to go over to Hutchinson and shop around, we'll you're an idiot. You're going to pay their extra tax? Is that what you want to do?"Conklin is a realist and understands that even when the Sports Arena goes off, Hutch will still be higher, but it is an important topic to continue to talk about."I think that we have to compete with Wichita on every front," Conklin said. "I've talked about that in the wage negotiations. I've talked about that in the budget meetings and it's an appropriate thing to talk about here. I know we're not discussing it right now, but I just think that needs to be understood that is a real stumbling block on bigger ticket items."The state sales tax rate is 6.5%, amounts above that are collected by local jurisdictions.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Conklin wants to see sales tax 'compete' with Wichita

Tanner Weathers is a Hutchinson host teen for the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: I have one brother, Mason, my mom, Jennifer and my dad, Patrick.

Town and School you attend: I live in Hutch and go to Trinity Catholic.

What do you like to do: I like football, basketball and working on cars.

What is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: They won't know about how big our town is and hidden attractions like the new fire station.

What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project: I am looking forward to making new friends and learning about their culture.&nbsp;

What is your favorite meal: I like chicken burritos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688475688776.jpeg" alt="Tanner Weathers-2023 Hutchinson Ulster Project" />
 <figcaption>Tanner Weathers-2023 Hutchinson Ulster Project</figcaption>
 </figure>Tanner Weathers is a Hutchinson host teen for the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: I have one brother, Mason, my mom, Jennifer and my dad, Patrick.Town and School you attend: I live in Hutch and go to Trinity Catholic.What do you like to do: I like football, basketball and working on cars.Favorite singer or group: Tyler ChildersWhat is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: They won't know about how big our town is and hidden attractions like the new fire station.What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project: I am looking forward to making new friends and learning about their culture.&nbsp;What is your favorite meal: I like chicken burritos.

Ulster Project Hutch: Tanner Weathers

Ronan McComb is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: My mom, Aodhan, my dad, Sean, Fontany

Town and school you attend: St. Ronan's College, Lurgan

What do you like to do: Swimming, cycling, water sports

Favorite singer or group: Miley Cyrus, U2, The Sawdoctors, Cranberries, Lizzo

What is something people would not know about Portadown: The local school St. John the Baptist, through the medium of English and Irish

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: I'm excited to participate in the activities planned by the leaders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688476436983.jpeg" alt="Ronan McComb-2023 Hutch Ulster Project" />
 <figcaption>Ronan McComb-2023 Hutch Ulster Project</figcaption>
 </figure>Ronan McComb is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: My mom, Aodhan, my dad, Sean, FontanyTown and school you attend: St. Ronan's College, LurganWhat do you like to do: Swimming, cycling, water sportsFavorite singer or group: Miley Cyrus, U2, The Sawdoctors, Cranberries, LizzoWhat is something people would not know about Portadown: The local school St. John the Baptist, through the medium of English and IrishWhat are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: I'm excited to participate in the activities planned by the leaders.What is your favorite meal: Bacon Butty

Ulster Project Hutch: Ronan McComb

Harrison Martin is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: My mom, Alison, my dad, Robert, my brother Wayne, my sister, Kaitlyn

Town and school you attend: Portadown College

What do you like to do: Play rugby, go to the gym, do water sports and snow skiing.

Favorite singer or group: Maroon 5 and Coldplay

What is something people would not know about Portadown: Rory Best (Ireland international) attended Portadown College.

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: The activities that we do as a group.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688475993693.jpeg" alt="Harrison Martin-2023 Hutch Ulster Project" />
 <figcaption>Harrison Martin-2023 Hutch Ulster Project</figcaption>
 </figure>Harrison Martin is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: My mom, Alison, my dad, Robert, my brother Wayne, my sister, KaitlynTown and school you attend: Portadown CollegeWhat do you like to do: Play rugby, go to the gym, do water sports and snow skiing.Favorite singer or group: Maroon 5 and ColdplayWhat is something people would not know about Portadown: Rory Best (Ireland international) attended Portadown College.What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: The activities that we do as a group.What is your favorite meal: Pizza

Ulster Project Hutch: Harrison Martin

This is day 13 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

In far western Kansas, wheat harvest is well behind schedule due to weather delays that have also brought hail damage. Despite the disruptions, elevators are generally seeing a better harvest than was anticipated this spring, although hail is hindering final yields for some and test weights are declining as producers wait for conditions to dry out enough to finish cutting.&nbsp;

Harvest is still going in western Wichita County, but most producers should wrap up by the weekend across the draw area for Scott Coop, according to grain merchandiser Brinlee McNary.&nbsp;

McNary said the crop looked pretty bleak in March, but thanks to spring rains they have taken in more bushels than they expected. Combines started rolling around July 4, about 10 days behind normal, but rain delays meant most producers spent a week out of the fields before resuming cutting.&nbsp;

The wheat has been high on protein, averaging 13 percent, but test weights have been falling from initial highs due to the rain, now at 58 pounds per bushel. Producers have seen a very wide range of yields from 20 to 70 bushels per acre.&nbsp;

Overall, McNary said Scott Coop will take in about half of their five-year average. That wheat will likely stay within the United States and be sent to flour mills or Kansas gluten plants, instead of traveling south on the rail to the Gulf of Mexico for export.&nbsp;

Harvest also started at least 10 days late in Sherman County, reported Brian Linin who farms near Goodland. About half of his wheat was destroyed, with crop insurance estimates of 0.6 to 1.7 bushels per acre. Linin’s 76-year-old father can’t remember having this much trouble getting wheat up in the fall in all his years of farming.&nbsp;

Despite the initial loss, three generations still came together to run combines this year - Brian, his father Brent and his son Blair. Test weights are averaging 58.5 pounds per bushel while proteins range from 11 to 12 percent.&nbsp;

Linin's irrigated wheat is yielding 60 to 65 bushels per acre and his dryland wheat is yielding 50 to 60 bushels per acre. The range is wider than normal due to variation between heads that are not quite ripe and others that are overripe - three days ago there were still green heads in the field. Hail also hit Sherman County last week, but Linin’s wheat fields were largely spared.&nbsp;

“The only silver lining is that this wheat is this good,” Linin said, noting a big benefit from planting into stubble to set up yield potential. “The dryland fields are a big surprise.”&nbsp;

Linin will deliver his wheat to Frontier Ag or Scoular, which will go on to the domestic mill market.&nbsp;

Eric Sperber of Cornerstone Ag in Colby also noted that the Thomas County area has never started wheat harvest this late.&nbsp;The first combines finally started rolling on July 10. With high humidity, most producers can’t start cutting until early evening, but fields have finally really ripened up in the last two days.&nbsp;

He reported test weights are struggling, averaging just over 58 pounds per bushel. Overall protein is averaging 12.1 percent, but he’s seen from eight percent up to 14 percent. Recent hail did not zero out a lot of acres, but impacted fields are now yielding half of their pre-hail potential due to shattering. Yields range from 25 bushels per acre on hail-damaged fields up to 70 bushels per acre for dryland wheat.&nbsp;

Sperber said there has been a lot of variation within fields with original tillers ripening on time, followed by taller secondary tillers ripening a few days later and then suckerheads growing even taller and ripening a few days after that. Producers have faced a number of difficulties this growing season - abandoning some poor stands in the fall, battling weeds, dealing with wheat suffering from winterkill from a cold snap in December that affected wheat with poor root structure and disease pressure from rust on fields that did not have fungicide applied.&nbsp;

“It has been a challenging crop this year from planting to harvest,” Sperber said. “It’s been really weird.”

Harvest is now 50 to 60 percent complete and needs another seven days of average weather to finish up. Sperber said they need sunshine, otherwise, the current weather will mean harvest will take much longer.&nbsp;Overall, he expects they will take in about the same number of bushels as the five-year average, due to an increase in acres. He had expected more before hail struck the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“It’s amazing with the amount of moisture we had,” he said.&nbsp;

Harvest also has about a week left to go - if there’s no rain - for Mike Sieck near Edson in Sherman County. Harvest started on July 8 but has never really kicked into full swing because most days they cannot start until noon or later - some days as late as 4:00 in the afternoon - due to humidity and scattered rains.&nbsp;

Sieck did apply fungicide, a good decision as quite a bit of stripe rust has moved into the area in the last couple of weeks. Weeds are also a contention as they aren’t dying in the cooler weather.&nbsp;

Hail has also hit the area hard. Sieck will still harvest some of the hail-damaged fields for seed wheat, even though yields have decreased to 25 bushels per acre. His average for dryland wheat is 45 bushels per acre but ranges widely. Test weights are decent at 59 to 61 pounds per bushel and protein is excellent at 13.5 to 14.5 percent.&nbsp;

He reported WestBred’s WB 4422, a replacement for Grainfield, has done well, as have the Kansas Wheat Alliance-developed varieties - KS Providence, KS Territory and KS Hamilton. North of Bird City and St. Francis, producers caught more snow and wheat is yielding even better, some places as high as 90 bushels per acre on dryland fields.&nbsp;

With varying yields and weather delays, producers are ready to close the book on the 2023 wheat harvest. As they continue cutting, Kansas Wheat will continue to share results from the field with the next harvest report scheduled for July 20.&nbsp;Look for a special edition harvest report on the hard white wheat crop on July 19.

The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.

<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/2023/7/1689766354673.png" alt="Harvest Report Day 13" />
 <figcaption>Harvest Report Day 13</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas WheatThis is day 13 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.In far western Kansas, wheat harvest is well behind schedule due to weather delays that have also brought hail damage. Despite the disruptions, elevators are generally seeing a better harvest than was anticipated this spring, although hail is hindering final yields for some and test weights are declining as producers wait for conditions to dry out enough to finish cutting.&nbsp;Harvest is still going in western Wichita County, but most producers should wrap up by the weekend across the draw area for Scott Coop, according to grain merchandiser Brinlee McNary.&nbsp;McNary said the crop looked pretty bleak in March, but thanks to spring rains they have taken in more bushels than they expected. Combines started rolling around July 4, about 10 days behind normal, but rain delays meant most producers spent a week out of the fields before resuming cutting.&nbsp;The wheat has been high on protein, averaging 13 percent, but test weights have been falling from initial highs due to the rain, now at 58 pounds per bushel. Producers have seen a very wide range of yields from 20 to 70 bushels per acre.&nbsp;Overall, McNary said Scott Coop will take in about half of their five-year average. That wheat will likely stay within the United States and be sent to flour mills or Kansas gluten plants, instead of traveling south on the rail to the Gulf of Mexico for export.&nbsp;Harvest also started at least 10 days late in Sherman County, reported Brian Linin who farms near Goodland. About half of his wheat was destroyed, with crop insurance estimates of 0.6 to 1.7 bushels per acre. Linin’s 76-year-old father can’t remember having this much trouble getting wheat up in the fall in all his years of farming.&nbsp;Despite the initial loss, three generations still came together to run combines this year - Brian, his father Brent and his son Blair. Test weights are averaging 58.5 pounds per bushel while proteins range from 11 to 12 percent.&nbsp;Linin's irrigated wheat is yielding 60 to 65 bushels per acre and his dryland wheat is yielding 50 to 60 bushels per acre. The range is wider than normal due to variation between heads that are not quite ripe and others that are overripe - three days ago there were still green heads in the field. Hail also hit Sherman County last week, but Linin’s wheat fields were largely spared.&nbsp;“The only silver lining is that this wheat is this good,” Linin said, noting a big benefit from planting into stubble to set up yield potential. “The dryland fields are a big surprise.”&nbsp;Linin will deliver his wheat to Frontier Ag or Scoular, which will go on to the domestic mill market.&nbsp;Eric Sperber of Cornerstone Ag in Colby also noted that the Thomas County area has never started wheat harvest this late.&nbsp;The first combines finally started rolling on July 10. With high humidity, most producers can’t start cutting until early evening, but fields have finally really ripened up in the last two days.&nbsp;He reported test weights are struggling, averaging just over 58 pounds per bushel. Overall protein is averaging 12.1 percent, but he’s seen from eight percent up to 14 percent. Recent hail did not zero out a lot of acres, but impacted fields are now yielding half of their pre-hail potential due to shattering. Yields range from 25 bushels per acre on hail-damaged fields up to 70 bushels per acre for dryland wheat.&nbsp;Sperber said there has been a lot of variation within fields with original tillers ripening on time, followed by taller secondary tillers ripening a few days later and then suckerheads growing even taller and ripening a few days after that. Producers have faced a number of difficulties this growing season - abandoning some poor stands in the fall, battling weeds, dealing with wheat suffering from winterkill from a cold snap in December that affected wheat with poor root structure and disease pressure from rust on fields that did not have fungicide applied.&nbsp;“It has been a challenging crop this year from planting to harvest,” Sperber said. “It’s been really weird.”Harvest is now 50 to 60 percent complete and needs another seven days of average weather to finish up. Sperber said they need sunshine, otherwise, the current weather will mean harvest will take much longer.&nbsp;Overall, he expects they will take in about the same number of bushels as the five-year average, due to an increase in acres. He had expected more before hail struck the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s amazing with the amount of moisture we had,” he said.&nbsp;Harvest also has about a week left to go - if there’s no rain - for Mike Sieck near Edson in Sherman County. Harvest started on July 8 but has never really kicked into full swing because most days they cannot start until noon or later - some days as late as 4:00 in the afternoon - due to humidity and scattered rains.&nbsp;Sieck did apply fungicide, a good decision as quite a bit of stripe rust has moved into the area in the last couple of weeks. Weeds are also a contention as they aren’t dying in the cooler weather.&nbsp;Hail has also hit the area hard. Sieck will still harvest some of the hail-damaged fields for seed wheat, even though yields have decreased to 25 bushels per acre. His average for dryland wheat is 45 bushels per acre but ranges widely. Test weights are decent at 59 to 61 pounds per bushel and protein is excellent at 13.5 to 14.5 percent.&nbsp;He reported WestBred’s WB 4422, a replacement for Grainfield, has done well, as have the Kansas Wheat Alliance-developed varieties - KS Providence, KS Territory and KS Hamilton. North of Bird City and St. Francis, producers caught more snow and wheat is yielding even better, some places as high as 90 bushels per acre on dryland fields.&nbsp;With varying yields and weather delays, producers are ready to close the book on the 2023 wheat harvest. As they continue cutting, Kansas Wheat will continue to share results from the field with the next harvest report scheduled for July 20.&nbsp;Look for a special edition harvest report on the hard white wheat crop on July 19.The 2023 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest23. Tag us at @kansaswheat on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.<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;

Day 13, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Kansas Largest Night Rodeo is back again this weekend in Pretty Prairie.&nbsp;

"You know, Pretty Prairie's not a large population town," said long-time announcer Randy Corley. "It just overflows with great rodeo fans. To me, that's so unique. It makes it such a fun place to be. They come out there to have a good time. They enjoy the rodeo. We have great cowboys, great cowgirls."

The Pretty Prairie Rodeo has been going on since 1936. It's almost a guaranteed sellout every year. This will be the first year for rodeo clown Dusty Myers.

"I live in a little town called Jumpertown, Mississippi," Myers said. "I grew up in the rodeo business. My dad rodeoed kind of regional. I grew up loving the great Lecile Harris. He lived right down the road from me. I got to watch him and Rudy Burns and grew up just wanting to be a rodeo clown."

The money raised at the rodeo stays in Pretty Prairie to provide scholarships to high school seniors, help groups such as the Prairie Sunset Home, the local food bank, scout troops, golf course, EMS, and the 4-H club.

Wednesday &amp; Thursday are Family Nights -

Children 12 &amp; under are admitted FREE

Adult Tickets are $12.00 for East, West, NE, SE, NW Sections (General Adm.)

$14.00 for SW Section (Individual Reserved Seats- rows A-N)

Advanced ticket price: (must be purchased before midnight the night before the performance) -- $12 for SW section

$25.00 for the top row (row O) of the SW Section. No advanced ticket price.

Friday &amp; Saturday Nights - All Seats are Reserved -

​Adults &amp; children – Same Price (unless they sit on your lap) 

$12.00 for NE Section. No advanced ticket price.

$15.00 for West, East, NW, &amp; SE Sections

Advance Ticket Price:  $13 for West, East, NW, and SE sections   (must be purchased before midnight the night before the performance)

$17 for SW Section - rows A-N. No advanced ticket price.

$25.00 for SW Section - row O (top row). No advanced ticket price.

Friday and Saturday night rodeo dances feature a live band, Prairie Smoke.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689762726827.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostPRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Kansas Largest Night Rodeo is back again this weekend in Pretty Prairie.&nbsp;"You know, Pretty Prairie's not a large population town," said long-time announcer Randy Corley. "It just overflows with great rodeo fans. To me, that's so unique. It makes it such a fun place to be. They come out there to have a good time. They enjoy the rodeo. We have great cowboys, great cowgirls."The Pretty Prairie Rodeo has been going on since 1936. It's almost a guaranteed sellout every year. This will be the first year for rodeo clown Dusty Myers."I live in a little town called Jumpertown, Mississippi," Myers said. "I grew up in the rodeo business. My dad rodeoed kind of regional. I grew up loving the great Lecile Harris. He lived right down the road from me. I got to watch him and Rudy Burns and grew up just wanting to be a rodeo clown."The money raised at the rodeo stays in Pretty Prairie to provide scholarships to high school seniors, help groups such as the Prairie Sunset Home, the local food bank, scout troops, golf course, EMS, and the 4-H club.Wednesday &amp; Thursday are Family Nights -July 19 &amp; 20Children 12 &amp; under are admitted FREEAdult Tickets are $12.00 for East, West, NE, SE, NW Sections (General Adm.)$14.00 for SW Section (Individual Reserved Seats- rows A-N)Advanced ticket price: (must be purchased before midnight the night before the performance) -- $12 for SW section$25.00 for the top row (row O) of the SW Section. No advanced ticket price.Friday &amp; Saturday Nights - All Seats are Reserved -July 21 &amp; 22​Adults &amp; children – Same Price (unless they sit on your lap) $12.00 for NE Section. No advanced ticket price.$15.00 for West, East, NW, &amp; SE SectionsAdvance Ticket Price: $13 for West, East, NW, and SE sections (must be purchased before midnight the night before the performance)$17 for SW Section - rows A-N. No advanced ticket price.$25.00 for SW Section - row O (top row). No advanced ticket price.Friday and Saturday night rodeo dances feature a live band, Prairie Smoke.<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;

Pretty Prairie Rodeo Wednesday through Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a social media post from the City of Hutchinson, the Rice Park Splash Pad is having pump issues and is currently operating intermittently. Park staff are working to replace the faulty pump as soon as possible, and an update will be released when a repair date is available. 

As the splash pad currently functions, the water will shut off when the pump overheats. It will remain off for an unspecified period of time while the pump cools down. Once cool, the splash pad will resume functioning as normal.

<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/2023/7/1689763126934.jpeg" alt="Splash Pad Graphic" />
 <figcaption>Splash Pad Graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — According to a social media post from the City of Hutchinson, the Rice Park Splash Pad is having pump issues and is currently operating intermittently. Park staff are working to replace the faulty pump as soon as possible, and an update will be released when a repair date is available. As the splash pad currently functions, the water will shut off when the pump overheats. It will remain off for an unspecified period of time while the pump cools down. Once cool, the splash pad will resume functioning as normal.<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;

Rice Park Splash Pad having pump problems

MCPHERSON, Kan. — Thanks to an overwhelming response from residents,&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;is expanding its popular ultra-fast fiber internet to McPherson residents and businesses. This expansion will give thousands of additional households access to gigabit speeds at affordable prices.

The first zone was connected earlier this month. Installs are taking place in the northern part of McPherson, between Sonora Drive and Wickersham Drive. Construction continues in other parts of the city.

“As a local Kansas broadband provider, we know community focus is important. We are excited to locally support and invest in McPherson, and we are proud to dedicate our resources to this wonderful, growing community in our newest fiber broadband build,” said Daniel Friesen,&nbsp;IdeaTek’s co-founder and chief innovation officer. “Our goal is to empower the McPherson community by bringing high-speed fiber internet to every doorstep, unlocking incredible opportunities for McPherson residents and businesses.”

IdeaTek&nbsp;has long been dedicated to bridging the digital divide in rural areas by bringing fiber internet access to underserved rural communities. However, internet access challenges extend beyond rural areas, Friesen said.

"Fiber internet is the gold standard for internet connectivity, and we want to bring this technology to as many communities as possible, including McPherson,” Friesen said. “With fiber, we are providing a new foundation for innovation, creativity and progress in the age of the digital economy.”

Friesen said that investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth. Fiber offers symmetrical upload and download speeds, scalable capacities for decades of future bandwidth demands, plus more reliability than the city’s current service providers. “We build to the standards of the future, not today,” he said.&nbsp;

With this rollout,&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;offers unlimited, uncapped, symmetrical speeds of up to 2.5 gigabits per second.&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;also does not require contracts.&nbsp;

IdeaTek&nbsp;will have a ribbon cutting at 9:30 a.m. July 20 at the McPherson Chamber of Commerce. Brunch will be served and the&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;team will be on hand to answer questions about service plans and the construction process. The team also will be giving away McPherson Bullpup T-shirts.

Based in Buhler,&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;was founded in 1999 by Friesen and four high school friends. Today, the company employs over 150 Kansans and is continuing to grow.&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;has deployed over 4,000 miles of fiber and built 150 fixed wireless towers, serving customers in nearly 90 Kansas communities.&nbsp;

To see if your home is in&nbsp;IdeaTek’s residential build, visit <a href="http://hookmeup.ideatek.com">hookmeup.ideatek.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584960838544.png" alt="IdeaTek Logo" />
 <figcaption>IdeaTek Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>IdeaTekMCPHERSON, Kan. — Thanks to an overwhelming response from residents,&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;is expanding its popular ultra-fast fiber internet to McPherson residents and businesses. This expansion will give thousands of additional households access to gigabit speeds at affordable prices.The first zone was connected earlier this month. Installs are taking place in the northern part of McPherson, between Sonora Drive and Wickersham Drive. Construction continues in other parts of the city.“As a local Kansas broadband provider, we know community focus is important. We are excited to locally support and invest in McPherson, and we are proud to dedicate our resources to this wonderful, growing community in our newest fiber broadband build,” said Daniel Friesen,&nbsp;IdeaTek’s co-founder and chief innovation officer. “Our goal is to empower the McPherson community by bringing high-speed fiber internet to every doorstep, unlocking incredible opportunities for McPherson residents and businesses.”IdeaTek&nbsp;has long been dedicated to bridging the digital divide in rural areas by bringing fiber internet access to underserved rural communities. However, internet access challenges extend beyond rural areas, Friesen said."Fiber internet is the gold standard for internet connectivity, and we want to bring this technology to as many communities as possible, including McPherson,” Friesen said. “With fiber, we are providing a new foundation for innovation, creativity and progress in the age of the digital economy.”Friesen said that investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth. Fiber offers symmetrical upload and download speeds, scalable capacities for decades of future bandwidth demands, plus more reliability than the city’s current service providers. “We build to the standards of the future, not today,” he said.&nbsp;With this rollout,&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;offers unlimited, uncapped, symmetrical speeds of up to 2.5 gigabits per second.&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;also does not require contracts.&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;will have a ribbon cutting at 9:30 a.m. July 20 at the McPherson Chamber of Commerce. Brunch will be served and the&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;team will be on hand to answer questions about service plans and the construction process. The team also will be giving away McPherson Bullpup T-shirts.Based in Buhler,&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;was founded in 1999 by Friesen and four high school friends. Today, the company employs over 150 Kansans and is continuing to grow.&nbsp;IdeaTek&nbsp;has deployed over 4,000 miles of fiber and built 150 fixed wireless towers, serving customers in nearly 90 Kansas communities.&nbsp;To see if your home is in&nbsp;IdeaTek’s residential build, visit <a href="http://hookmeup.ideatek.com">hookmeup.ideatek.com</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;

IdeaTek expanding to McPherson, holding July 20 event

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas and their safety partners are taking the opportunity to warn about the rise in vehicle theft, noting that the surge in auto thefts is costly for all vehicle owners.

"Nationwide, in 2022, we surpassed the one million mark for stolen vehicles for the first time in 15 years," Steward said. "That was a 7% increase over the year before. The trend is on the way up. Here in Kansas, the latest statistics from 2021, there were more than 9100 vehicles stolen in the Sunflower state. That was the 12th highest theft rate in the nation."

Vehicle theft is among the nation’s most costly property crimes and affects more than just the theft victims.

"The top five stolen vehicles are typically the most common vehicles on the road," Steward said. "We're looking at Ford pickups, Chevy pickups, Honda Accord, Honda Civic and Dodge pickups, so if you're driving one of those vehicles, you might be extra vigilant to locking your vehicle, parking it in a well-lit place, parking it in a garage, if you're able to. Some of those things can help prevent theft."

Lock your car every time and everywhere you park it. Even without the keys inside, thieves are more likely to steal a car left unlocked.

"The insurance industry reports that about one fourth of the typical comprehensive auto insurance premium goes to pay for auto theft claims," Steward said. "Those costs are being passed along across the industry, across all of the insured. To that point, comprehensive coverage is what you need to cover you in the case of a theft. Liability insurance will not cover you, so it's important to talk to your insurance agent about that."

It's estimated that approximately one motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the United States.

<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/2023/7/1689680301063.jpeg" alt="AAA Theft Graphic" />
 <figcaption>AAA Theft Graphic</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas and their safety partners are taking the opportunity to warn about the rise in vehicle theft, noting that the surge in auto thefts is costly for all vehicle owners."Nationwide, in 2022, we surpassed the one million mark for stolen vehicles for the first time in 15 years," Steward said. "That was a 7% increase over the year before. The trend is on the way up. Here in Kansas, the latest statistics from 2021, there were more than 9100 vehicles stolen in the Sunflower state. That was the 12th highest theft rate in the nation."Vehicle theft is among the nation’s most costly property crimes and affects more than just the theft victims."The top five stolen vehicles are typically the most common vehicles on the road," Steward said. "We're looking at Ford pickups, Chevy pickups, Honda Accord, Honda Civic and Dodge pickups, so if you're driving one of those vehicles, you might be extra vigilant to locking your vehicle, parking it in a well-lit place, parking it in a garage, if you're able to. Some of those things can help prevent theft."Lock your car every time and everywhere you park it. Even without the keys inside, thieves are more likely to steal a car left unlocked."The insurance industry reports that about one fourth of the typical comprehensive auto insurance premium goes to pay for auto theft claims," Steward said. "Those costs are being passed along across the industry, across all of the insured. To that point, comprehensive coverage is what you need to cover you in the case of a theft. Liability insurance will not cover you, so it's important to talk to your insurance agent about that." It's estimated that approximately one motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the United States.<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;

AAA Kansas: Protect yourself from vehicle theft

MCPHERSON, Kan. — If enough qualified businesses are interested, the City of McPherson plans to apply for a Community Development Block Grant COVID&nbsp;Resiliency&nbsp;Category (CVR).

In order to fulfill the application requirements, the City is actively seeking qualifying businesses that have an interest in having access should it be successful in attaining these funds.

To be eligible, businesses must meet the following criteria:

The purpose of the program is to aid businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic that are in need of improvements and enhancements to stay competitive in today's market and to&nbsp;stay&nbsp;resilient&nbsp;should a future pandemic be felt.

A more specific list of eligible activities that might be eligible for consideration are as follows:

Businesses with five or fewer employees might be eligible for funds up to $30,000 and those with six to 50 employees could receive up to $50,000 should the City's application be successful.

Qualifying projects might include facility or technology upgrades, e-Commerce updates, professional trainings or any other updates that can be directly related to resiliency.

If your McPherson business thinks they might qualify and you have interest you are encouraged to fill out this preliminary&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001P8tENpB5CAAn-sA2pjZSEz2i90ndNlZjwHffxXcOxrMBhXbkK3uECIYVsYW_6jeD5ZGFyywfFAZJzNBtj45cEEW82ol4xZezd7CPtr9xOTIa1r3VykesAkzbip-blODnCbKaX7DgfxWG52DMwIPrzIX1uhxzbCsV4XWW7e54ts8qqETo73i9n4ioEhdiA9oGss4vKzdhhPEoAy2HeaZMfNF-tfRP_igSKaA0Ip9qlCET5ctpnRrWhA==&amp;c=uJ-TleVDW8wxhmlZ8OyEgqBpt6xpFADWNN9fBRXPo5yLQaXUAe55dw==&amp;ch=VJoS7Xhr8hHD-r5_pDu91v_aspXQc2J_yPUzEIJ76yy94oCqIs6brA==" target="_blank">online application</a>&nbsp;no later than noon on Aug. 4. A more complete application will be required if the City Receives the grant.

If you have questions, contact City Administrator Nick Gregory by&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nickg@mcpcity.com">email</a>&nbsp;or call 620-245-2535 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595884472466.png" alt="City of McPherson logo.png" />
 <figcaption>City of McPherson logo.png</figcaption>
 </figure>McPherson Chamber of CommerceMCPHERSON, Kan. — If enough qualified businesses are interested, the City of McPherson plans to apply for a Community Development Block Grant COVID&nbsp;Resiliency&nbsp;Category (CVR).In order to fulfill the application requirements, the City is actively seeking qualifying businesses that have an interest in having access should it be successful in attaining these funds.To be eligible, businesses must meet the following criteria:<ul>
 <li>Be open on or before March 1, 2020.</li><li>Retain between 1 and 50 employees.</li><li>At least 51% of the business' employees must meet low to moderate income standards.</li>
 </ul>The purpose of the program is to aid businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic that are in need of improvements and enhancements to stay competitive in today's market and to&nbsp;stay&nbsp;resilient&nbsp;should a future pandemic be felt.A more specific list of eligible activities that might be eligible for consideration are as follows:<ol>
 <li>Upgrades allowing businesses to remain open to prevent future closures due to community illnesses and health emergencies.</li><li>Technology, hardware, and software upgrades including infrastructure, devices, and applications.</li><li>Ecommerce updates including online inventory management and website enhancements.</li><li>Professional development and training for business enhancements.</li><li>Other updates that can be directly related to resiliency improvements.</li>
 </ol>Businesses with five or fewer employees might be eligible for funds up to $30,000 and those with six to 50 employees could receive up to $50,000 should the City's application be successful.Qualifying projects might include facility or technology upgrades, e-Commerce updates, professional trainings or any other updates that can be directly related to resiliency.If your McPherson business thinks they might qualify and you have interest you are encouraged to fill out this preliminary&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001P8tENpB5CAAn-sA2pjZSEz2i90ndNlZjwHffxXcOxrMBhXbkK3uECIYVsYW_6jeD5ZGFyywfFAZJzNBtj45cEEW82ol4xZezd7CPtr9xOTIa1r3VykesAkzbip-blODnCbKaX7DgfxWG52DMwIPrzIX1uhxzbCsV4XWW7e54ts8qqETo73i9n4ioEhdiA9oGss4vKzdhhPEoAy2HeaZMfNF-tfRP_igSKaA0Ip9qlCET5ctpnRrWhA==&amp;c=uJ-TleVDW8wxhmlZ8OyEgqBpt6xpFADWNN9fBRXPo5yLQaXUAe55dw==&amp;ch=VJoS7Xhr8hHD-r5_pDu91v_aspXQc2J_yPUzEIJ76yy94oCqIs6brA==" target="_blank">online application</a>&nbsp;no later than noon on Aug. 4. A more complete application will be required if the City Receives the grant. If you have questions, contact City Administrator Nick Gregory by&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nickg@mcpcity.com">email</a>&nbsp;or call 620-245-2535 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

McPherson looking to apply for business funds

Lance Patterson, CEO, Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson

Summer is a critical time for Reno County youth as they aim to make up for the impact of interrupted learning and developmental disruption of the past few years. Boys &amp; Girls Clubs take full advantage of the summer and afterschool time to keep our kids learning, growing and above all having fun!

It’s why we keep kids’ minds engaged in the summer with programs like Summer Brain Gain, which lets kids learn through discovery, creative expression, and group work. Is summer science more fun when you’re making solar ovens and cooking s’mores in them? We think so.

Teens also use the extra summer hours to apply the workforce skills they’ve learned. This summer we placed 16 teens with internships at our Clubs, the zoo, USD 308 food service, and Express Employment. Local businesses and ARPA workforce development funding made these learning experiences possible.

We don’t just engage kids and teens’ minds in the summer, we also support their mental health needs through mentoring and social emotional learning. This summer, Horizons Mental Health Center has come to our elementary site weekly to lead activities on things like recognizing and regulating our emotions—life skills that all kids need.

We need the support of our elected officials and community to keep doing what we do best: ensure every child who enters our doors has access to key programs, mentors and experiences that give them the tools they need to define their own success. The pandemic set our kids back academically and developmentally while also severely impacting their mental health.

It’s on all of us to move the needle for youth in Reno County, creating real opportunity based on kids’ potential—not on the circumstances that surround them. Our young people are the promise of tomorrow. Prioritizing and investing in out-of-school time not only leads to better outcomes for our kids, but also to a healthier, safer, and more prosperous nation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689680524828.jpeg" alt="STEM making solar ovens-Photo Courtesy Boys and Girls Club" />
 <figcaption>STEM making solar ovens-Photo Courtesy Boys and Girls Club</figcaption>
 </figure>Lance Patterson, CEO, Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of HutchinsonSummer is a critical time for Reno County youth as they aim to make up for the impact of interrupted learning and developmental disruption of the past few years. Boys &amp; Girls Clubs take full advantage of the summer and afterschool time to keep our kids learning, growing and above all having fun!It’s why we keep kids’ minds engaged in the summer with programs like Summer Brain Gain, which lets kids learn through discovery, creative expression, and group work. Is summer science more fun when you’re making solar ovens and cooking s’mores in them? We think so.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689680631618.jpeg" alt="Internship at Hutchinson Zoo-Photo Courtesy Boys and Girls Clubs" />
 <figcaption>Internship at Hutchinson Zoo-Photo Courtesy Boys and Girls Clubs</figcaption>
 </figure>Teens also use the extra summer hours to apply the workforce skills they’ve learned. This summer we placed 16 teens with internships at our Clubs, the zoo, USD 308 food service, and Express Employment. Local businesses and ARPA workforce development funding made these learning experiences possible.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689680600267.jpeg" alt="Horizons drawing facial expressions-Photo Courtesy Boys and Girls Clubs" />
 <figcaption>Horizons drawing facial expressions-Photo Courtesy Boys and Girls Clubs</figcaption>
 </figure>We don’t just engage kids and teens’ minds in the summer, we also support their mental health needs through mentoring and social emotional learning. This summer, Horizons Mental Health Center has come to our elementary site weekly to lead activities on things like recognizing and regulating our emotions—life skills that all kids need.But we can’t do this work alone.We need the support of our elected officials and community to keep doing what we do best: ensure every child who enters our doors has access to key programs, mentors and experiences that give them the tools they need to define their own success. The pandemic set our kids back academically and developmentally while also severely impacting their mental health.It’s on all of us to move the needle for youth in Reno County, creating real opportunity based on kids’ potential—not on the circumstances that surround them. Our young people are the promise of tomorrow. Prioritizing and investing in out-of-school time not only leads to better outcomes for our kids, but also to a healthier, safer, and more prosperous nation.<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;

Boys and Girls Clubs CEO: This summer, keep kids learning

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

7/19/2023 3:07 AM-Elias	Antonio Capps-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant

7/19/2023 2:08 AM-David	Charles Shadel-Burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500; Making False Information; Direct Contempt

7/18/2023 9:52 PM-Justin	Wayne White-Probation Violation

7/18/2023 9:08 PM-Ryan	Anthony Lee-Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 8:48 PM-Wanda	Victoria Lemens-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

7/18/2023 8:13 PM-Summer	Danielle Duboise-Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 7:35 PM-Chassity	Nichole Nicholson-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

7/18/2023 6:08 PM-Alexis	Keshawn Battle-Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 4:07 PM-Brittany	Leigh Blackwell-Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 3:20 PM-Alejandro	Vidairi Serna-Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 2:36 PM-William	Daniel Lemens-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 1:17 PM-Larry	Carnell Scott-Failure to Appear; Interference with Law Enforcement; Falsely report a Misd crime by LEO

7/18/2023 10:10 AM-Kristopher	Lee Richards-Failure to Appear

7/18/2023 8:58 AM-Blake	Richard Sestini-Direct Contempt

7/18/2023 8:24 AM-Eric	Ricardo Leos-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

7/18/2023 7:26 AM-Eric	James Moeder-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919611658.jpeg" alt="Bracelets" />
 <figcaption>Bracelets</figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;7/19/2023 3:07 AM-Elias	Antonio Capps-Interference with Law Enforcement; Obstruct, Resist, Oppose, Misd case, Execution of Misd Warrant7/19/2023 2:08 AM-David	Charles Shadel-Burglary; Dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; &lt; $1,000; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Theft; Property or Services; Less than $1,500; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Theft; By Deception; Less than $1,500; Making False Information; Direct Contempt7/18/2023 9:52 PM-Justin	Wayne White-Probation Violation7/18/2023 9:08 PM-Ryan	Anthony Lee-Failure to Appear7/18/2023 8:48 PM-Wanda	Victoria Lemens-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body7/18/2023 8:13 PM-Summer	Danielle Duboise-Failure to Appear7/18/2023 7:35 PM-Chassity	Nichole Nicholson-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body7/18/2023 6:08 PM-Alexis	Keshawn Battle-Failure to Appear7/18/2023 4:07 PM-Brittany	Leigh Blackwell-Failure to Appear7/18/2023 3:20 PM-Alejandro	Vidairi Serna-Failure to Appear7/18/2023 2:36 PM-William	Daniel Lemens-Poss of marijuana; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Failure to Appear7/18/2023 1:17 PM-Larry	Carnell Scott-Failure to Appear; Interference with Law Enforcement; Falsely report a Misd crime by LEO7/18/2023 10:10 AM-Kristopher	Lee Richards-Failure to Appear7/18/2023 8:58 AM-Blake	Richard Sestini-Direct Contempt7/18/2023 8:24 AM-Eric	Ricardo Leos-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv7/18/2023 7:26 AM-Eric	James Moeder-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army at 700 North Walnut is opening their doors so people can stay cool Tuesday.

"Today we will be having extreme heat and we want a safe place for people to go in order to cool down," said Major Paul James.

 People will be able to get bottles of water available because of a donation from Dillons, and a cool place for people to sit down and relax.&nbsp;

 Cooling center hours will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday.&nbsp;

In addition, the Salvation Army can help you keep cool in your home if you do not have air conditioning.

"Just last week we received 69 fans from the Westlake Ace Hardware’s Annual Fan Drive," James said. 

Fans will continue to be given out by appointment until the end of July. 

 Donations are always welcome to the Salvation Army as this is a difficult time of year for many Hutchinson residents with energy cost having increased significantly in recent years.

Also, unlike the winter months, there is not a moratorium on shutoffs the way that there is during the Cold Weather Rule.

<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/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt="salvation army" />
 <figcaption>salvation army</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army at 700 North Walnut is opening their doors so people can stay cool Tuesday."Today we will be having extreme heat and we want a safe place for people to go in order to cool down," said Major Paul James. People will be able to get bottles of water available because of a donation from Dillons, and a cool place for people to sit down and relax.&nbsp; Cooling center hours will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday thru Friday.&nbsp;In addition, the Salvation Army can help you keep cool in your home if you do not have air conditioning."Just last week we received 69 fans from the Westlake Ace Hardware’s Annual Fan Drive," James said. Fans will continue to be given out by appointment until the end of July. Donations are always welcome to the Salvation Army as this is a difficult time of year for many Hutchinson residents with energy cost having increased significantly in recent years.Also, unlike the winter months, there is not a moratorium on shutoffs the way that there is during the Cold Weather Rule.<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;

Salvation Army providing cooling center Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interim Hutchinson City Manager Mary Grace Clements announced at Tuesday's City Council meeting that some Hutchinson water customers are going to need to change the way they pay their water bill.

"You're going to start to see, we're going to start to communicate out that as of September 1, we're going to change the ability, for security reasons, we're going to transition from our customer service agents taking water payments over the phone," Clements said. "You're not going to be able to accept that. We will not accept that after Sept. 1."

There are four other ways to pay your bill. 

1. You can set up automatic bank draft by filling out a form available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/185/Utility-Billing">https://www.hutchgov.com/185/Utility-Billing</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Interim Hutchinson City Manager Mary Grace Clements announced at Tuesday's City Council meeting that some Hutchinson water customers are going to need to change the way they pay their water bill."You're going to start to see, we're going to start to communicate out that as of September 1, we're going to change the ability, for security reasons, we're going to transition from our customer service agents taking water payments over the phone," Clements said. "You're not going to be able to accept that. We will not accept that after Sept. 1."There are four other ways to pay your bill. 1. You can set up automatic bank draft by filling out a form available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchgov.com/185/Utility-Billing">https://www.hutchgov.com/185/Utility-Billing</a>2. You can make a one-time payment at <a href="https://selfservice.hutchgov.com/css/default.aspx">waterbill.hutchgov.com</a>.3. You can pay by phone through an automated system at (620) 694-2621 option 24. You can pay in person or by mail or in the drop box at 125 East Avenue B. The mailing address is City of Hutchinson, 125 East Avenue B, PO Box 1567, Hutchinson, KS 67501.<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;