NEWTON, Kan. — Michael Llamas was sworn in as a judge for the Ninth Judicial District in Newton on Friday. 

Llamas was sworn in to the judgeship by Chief Judge Marilyn Wilder. Prior to being nominated and selected to become a judge, Llamas operated a local law practice for more than a decade.&nbsp; 

Llamas also has experience as a municipal judge. Llamas was born and raised in Newton.

"I wanted to serve this community," Llamas said. "I wanted to help people, and that's why I chose the profession that I did."

During the ceremony, Llamas took a moment to recognize the memory of his mother for her encouragement and support throughout his career.

The Ninth Judicial District includes Harvey and McPherson counties. 

Llamas fills a new judge position in the Ninth Judicial District.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670681196724.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — Michael Llamas was sworn in as a judge for the Ninth Judicial District in Newton on Friday. Llamas was sworn in to the judgeship by Chief Judge Marilyn Wilder. Prior to being nominated and selected to become a judge, Llamas operated a local law practice for more than a decade.&nbsp; Llamas also has experience as a municipal judge. Llamas was born and raised in Newton."I wanted to serve this community," Llamas said. "I wanted to help people, and that's why I chose the profession that I did."During the ceremony, Llamas took a moment to recognize the memory of his mother for her encouragement and support throughout his career."Mom, I made it," he said. The Ninth Judicial District includes Harvey and McPherson counties. Llamas fills a new judge position in the Ninth Judicial District.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New judge sworn in Friday in Newton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Effective December 9, 2022, the chief strategy officer position at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) has been eliminated as part of an executive team reorganization.

The restructure impacted Charles (Chuck) Welch who served as the health system’s chief strategy officer. Welch joined the organization in April 2019 as the vice president and chief development officer before being promoted to CSO in October 2021. 

As chief strategy officer, Welch was responsible for developing and implementing key strategic initiatives, market positioning, and business unit growth and development consistent with the mission and strategic plan.

“I would like to express my gratitude to Chuck, who has been an integral part of furthering our strategic plan the past three years, which will help set the stage for our future,” said Acting CEO and Chief Quality Officer Nick Baldetti. “On behalf of the board and executive team, I thank Chuck for his leadership, vision and dedication to HRHS and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

The executive team will continue to work closely together to maintain the continuity of day-to-day operations for the health system. The board will continue its nationwide search for the next chief executive officer, replacing Ken Johnson, who resigned last month. 

Until a replacement is selected, Nick Baldetti will continue serving as Acting CEO and Chief Quality Officer for the healthcare system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670679141271.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Effective December 9, 2022, the chief strategy officer position at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System (HRHS) has been eliminated as part of an executive team reorganization.The restructure impacted Charles (Chuck) Welch who served as the health system’s chief strategy officer. Welch joined the organization in April 2019 as the vice president and chief development officer before being promoted to CSO in October 2021. As chief strategy officer, Welch was responsible for developing and implementing key strategic initiatives, market positioning, and business unit growth and development consistent with the mission and strategic plan.“I would like to express my gratitude to Chuck, who has been an integral part of furthering our strategic plan the past three years, which will help set the stage for our future,” said Acting CEO and Chief Quality Officer Nick Baldetti. “On behalf of the board and executive team, I thank Chuck for his leadership, vision and dedication to HRHS and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”The executive team will continue to work closely together to maintain the continuity of day-to-day operations for the health system. The board will continue its nationwide search for the next chief executive officer, replacing Ken Johnson, who resigned last month. Until a replacement is selected, Nick Baldetti will continue serving as Acting CEO and Chief Quality Officer for the healthcare system.

Welch out at Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Eagle Media and Allen Samuels CDJR came together again on Friday evening for the 2022 Adopt a Child turn in party.&nbsp;

Throughout the holiday season, Country 102.9 and the Hutchinson Eagle Media stations called on the community to adopt 214 children from Reno, Harvey and McPherson counties whose families needed assistance to give them a better Christmas. The stations were given the names thanks to the Kansas Department of Children and Families.

"We had so many bicycles this year, we had to put some of them in a separate room," said organizer and Country 102.9 Program Director, Randy McKay. "The generosity of Eagle Media listeners is always so humbling. We are happy to be able to help this year and every year."

Adopt A Child recipient parents will pick up gifts next week.

<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/2022/12/1670635378723.jpeg" alt="2022 Adopt A Child-Eagle Hutchinson" />
 <figcaption>2022 Adopt A Child-Eagle Hutchinson</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Eagle Media and Allen Samuels CDJR came together again on Friday evening for the 2022 Adopt a Child turn in party.&nbsp;Throughout the holiday season, Country 102.9 and the Hutchinson Eagle Media stations called on the community to adopt 214 children from Reno, Harvey and McPherson counties whose families needed assistance to give them a better Christmas. The stations were given the names thanks to the Kansas Department of Children and Families."We had so many bicycles this year, we had to put some of them in a separate room," said organizer and Country 102.9 Program Director, Randy McKay. "The generosity of Eagle Media listeners is always so humbling. We are happy to be able to help this year and every year."Adopt A Child recipient parents will pick up gifts next week.<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;

Eagle Media Adopt-A-Child a success once again

Scott David Conklin, Sr., 62, died December 8, 2022, surrounded by his family at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born February 17, 1960, in Hutchinson, to Stuart “Joe” Frazier and Mary Ann (Kaaz) Conklin.&nbsp;

Scott graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1978 and Kansas University with a Bachelors of Business Administration. He grew up working in the family business, Conklin Cars, started by his grandfather.

After graduating from KU, he returned to Hutchinson to work in the family business alongside his father and brothers, becoming a partner in 1982. On July 23, 1983, Scott married Kathryn Meeks of Kirkwood (St. Louis), MO. They enjoyed 39 years of marriage.

Scott became the “face” of Conklin Cars around 2005, taking over the advertising after his father passed away, though never becoming comfortable with the attention that brought. He served in various ways in the community, most recently serving on the board of the Hutchinson YMCA. While the family had a dealership location in Kansas City, MO, he served as president on MainCor, a revitalization and economic development board in the area. Gardening was a passion of Scott’s; he loved all kinds of plants and landscaping. Scott was an active member of Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson, where he led the ministry of Grace for Orphans. The church was where he most desired to serve due to his strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.&nbsp;

Scott is survived by: his wife, Kathryn “Kathy” Conklin of Hutchinson; children and grandchildren, Sarah Lill (Jeremy) and their children, Genevieve and Kate of Lawrence, KS, Mary Hoover (Tony) and their children, Emme and Penelope of Hutchinson, Scott Conklin, Jr. (Paige) and their children, Scott David III, Eloise, Josephine, and Arthur of Hutchinson; and Ann Conklin of Bentonville, AR; mother, Mary Ann Conklin of Hutchinson; siblings, Stuart F. Conklin (Fran) of Hutchinson, Steven A. Conklin of Watertown, WI, and Susan Fangman (Joe) of Houston, TX; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

He was proceeded in death by his father, Stuart “Joe” Conklin, Jr.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 15, 2022, at Grace Bible Church, 1221 E. 33rd, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Private family burial will take place following the service in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary.

Scott’s full obituary can be viewed on Elliott Mortuary’s website.&nbsp; His service will be livestreamed by clicking on the link,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@gbchutch6811/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@gbchutch6811/streams</a>.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Grace Bible Church (to benefit the Grace for Orphans program) or the Hutchinson YMCA, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501

Scott David Conklin, Sr., 62, died December 8, 2022, surrounded by his family at Hospice House, Hutchinson. He was born February 17, 1960, in Hutchinson, to Stuart “Joe” Frazier and Mary Ann (Kaaz) Conklin.&nbsp;Scott graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1978 and Kansas University with a Bachelors of Business Administration. He grew up working in the family business, Conklin Cars, started by his grandfather.After graduating from KU, he returned to Hutchinson to work in the family business alongside his father and brothers, becoming a partner in 1982. On July 23, 1983, Scott married Kathryn Meeks of Kirkwood (St. Louis), MO. They enjoyed 39 years of marriage.Scott became the “face” of Conklin Cars around 2005, taking over the advertising after his father passed away, though never becoming comfortable with the attention that brought. He served in various ways in the community, most recently serving on the board of the Hutchinson YMCA. While the family had a dealership location in Kansas City, MO, he served as president on MainCor, a revitalization and economic development board in the area. Gardening was a passion of Scott’s; he loved all kinds of plants and landscaping. Scott was an active member of Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson, where he led the ministry of Grace for Orphans. The church was where he most desired to serve due to his strong faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.&nbsp;Scott is survived by: his wife, Kathryn “Kathy” Conklin of Hutchinson; children and grandchildren, Sarah Lill (Jeremy) and their children, Genevieve and Kate of Lawrence, KS, Mary Hoover (Tony) and their children, Emme and Penelope of Hutchinson, Scott Conklin, Jr. (Paige) and their children, Scott David III, Eloise, Josephine, and Arthur of Hutchinson; and Ann Conklin of Bentonville, AR; mother, Mary Ann Conklin of Hutchinson; siblings, Stuart F. Conklin (Fran) of Hutchinson, Steven A. Conklin of Watertown, WI, and Susan Fangman (Joe) of Houston, TX; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless friends.He was proceeded in death by his father, Stuart “Joe” Conklin, Jr.Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 15, 2022, at Grace Bible Church, 1221 E. 33rd, Hutchinson.&nbsp; Private family burial will take place following the service in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, with the family present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary.Scott’s full obituary can be viewed on Elliott Mortuary’s website.&nbsp; His service will be livestreamed by clicking on the link,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@gbchutch6811/streams">https://www.youtube.com/@gbchutch6811/streams</a>.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Grace Bible Church (to benefit the Grace for Orphans program) or the Hutchinson YMCA, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS&nbsp; 67501

Scott David Conklin, Sr. |1960-2022|

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The impact of the pipeline outage resulting from the leak in Kansas on Wednesday isn't known yet, according to Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas.

"The closure in the Keystone pipeline that we've seen the last few days due to the leak in northern Kansas has certainly got the industry watching," Steward said. "We're not sure exactly what the impact of that will be yet. It will certainly depend on how long that pipeline is shut down."

Before the leak, fundamentals were looking really good to keep gas prices dropping across the country.

"Demand has been low for a while," Steward said. "We're at about 7% lower than where we were a year ago in terms of gasoline demand. Total domestic gasoline stocks rose significantly in the most recent reporting period. You couple those things together and you're seeing a pretty strong decline in gas prices over the last month or two. We're at $2.94 a gallon on average in Kansas today, that's down five cents just from Monday."

Area counties continue to be on either side of the average:

The drop in demand is what was typical pre-pandemic.

"That's what we're seeing this year," Steward said. "We tend to have fewer people out driving, especially when we start seeing winter weather. We haven't seen much of that yet in Kansas."

Drivers can find current gas prices along their route at <a href="https://gasprices.aaa.com/">gasprices.aaa.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670612694147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The impact of the pipeline outage resulting from the leak in Kansas on Wednesday isn't known yet, according to Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas."The closure in the Keystone pipeline that we've seen the last few days due to the leak in northern Kansas has certainly got the industry watching," Steward said. "We're not sure exactly what the impact of that will be yet. It will certainly depend on how long that pipeline is shut down."Before the leak, fundamentals were looking really good to keep gas prices dropping across the country."Demand has been low for a while," Steward said. "We're at about 7% lower than where we were a year ago in terms of gasoline demand. Total domestic gasoline stocks rose significantly in the most recent reporting period. You couple those things together and you're seeing a pretty strong decline in gas prices over the last month or two. We're at $2.94 a gallon on average in Kansas today, that's down five cents just from Monday."Area counties continue to be on either side of the average:Reno $2.87Harvey $2.81Sedgwick $2.88Kingman $3.02Pratt $3.18Stafford $2.99Rice $3.07McPherson $2.90The drop in demand is what was typical pre-pandemic."That's what we're seeing this year," Steward said. "We tend to have fewer people out driving, especially when we start seeing winter weather. We haven't seen much of that yet in Kansas."Drivers can find current gas prices along their route at <a href="https://gasprices.aaa.com/">gasprices.aaa.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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

AAA: Pipeline leak hasn't reached pumps yet

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Home Instead Senior Care office serving Hutchinson is participating in the Be a Santa to a Senior® program again this year.

The program provides gifts and companionship for lonely and isolated seniors. The program is made possible by the generous support of area nonprofit organizations, retailers, numerous volunteers and members of the community.

“There are so many seniors, right here in the Hutchinson area, who have nothing and no one,” said Cindy Miller, owner of the local Home Instead Senior Care office. “Through this program, we are able to show them that they are valuable members of our community and that people still care.”

Home Instead has partnered with First Bank Kansas, Boy Scout troop 306, Boys and Girls Club of Hutchinson and The Medicine Shoppe to help with the gift collection and distribution.

Participating retail locations will display the Be a Santa to a Senior Christmas trees that feature ornaments with seniors’ first names and their gift requests. Holiday shoppers can pick ornaments from the trees, buy the items listed and return them unwrapped (and with the ornament attached) to the store.

Program partners and volunteers will take care of wrapping and distributing the gifts to local seniors who might otherwise spend the holiday alone.

“We have seen, firsthand, how much this program means to local seniors,” said Miller. “Without it, there would be seniors for whom the holidays would pass without even a visit.”

You can find a Be A Santa To a Senior tree at First Bank Kansas at 1600 E. 17th and at The Medicine Shoppe at 1401 N. Main in Hutchinson.

For more information about the program, visit <a href="http://BeaSantatoaSenior.com">BeaSantatoaSenior.com</a> or call 620-662-5556.

<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/2022/12/1670607177235.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Home Instead Senior Care office serving Hutchinson is participating in the Be a Santa to a Senior® program again this year.The program provides gifts and companionship for lonely and isolated seniors. The program is made possible by the generous support of area nonprofit organizations, retailers, numerous volunteers and members of the community.“There are so many seniors, right here in the Hutchinson area, who have nothing and no one,” said Cindy Miller, owner of the local Home Instead Senior Care office. “Through this program, we are able to show them that they are valuable members of our community and that people still care.”Home Instead has partnered with First Bank Kansas, Boy Scout troop 306, Boys and Girls Club of Hutchinson and The Medicine Shoppe to help with the gift collection and distribution.Participating retail locations will display the Be a Santa to a Senior Christmas trees that feature ornaments with seniors’ first names and their gift requests. Holiday shoppers can pick ornaments from the trees, buy the items listed and return them unwrapped (and with the ornament attached) to the store.Program partners and volunteers will take care of wrapping and distributing the gifts to local seniors who might otherwise spend the holiday alone.“We have seen, firsthand, how much this program means to local seniors,” said Miller. “Without it, there would be seniors for whom the holidays would pass without even a visit.”You can find a Be A Santa To a Senior tree at First Bank Kansas at 1600 E. 17th and at The Medicine Shoppe at 1401 N. Main in Hutchinson.For more information about the program, visit <a href="http://BeaSantatoaSenior.com">BeaSantatoaSenior.com</a> or call 620-662-5556.<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;

Program to give senior citizens gifts continues

BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler-based IdeaTek has expanded its footprint into Liberal, giving businesses and households access to gigabit speeds at affordable prices.

The expansion furthers the company’s mission of providing Internet Freedom to Kansas communities, said Daniel Friesen, IdeaTek’s Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer.

“We are extremely excited for the opportunities this much-needed fiber investment will bring to Liberal,” he said. “Our mission of Internet Freedom means we believe everyone should have access to high-speed fiber internet – no matter where they live. We look forward to providing residents and businesses with the world-class connectivity they deserve.”

Last year, IdeaTek deployed wireless internet to Liberal and surrounding area. It was developed as a temporary solution for remote areas. Friesen said that investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth. “Our mission is to build to the standards of the future, not today.”

With this rollout, IdeaTek offers unlimited, uncapped, symmetrical speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second. IdeaTek also does not require contracts.&nbsp;

Eli Svaty, the executive director of the Seward County Development Corporation, added that IdeaTek already has a proven track record in southwest Kansas, bringing fiber internet to residents in the nearby communities of Kismet, Plains. Meade, Minneola, Fowler, Ford and Bucklin.

“Rural Kansas has been historically left behind when it comes to fiber infrastructure development,” Svaty said. “These communities were suffering from a lack of committed and quality providers. As a homegrown company from Kansas, IdeaTek knows what it means to be a Kansan and why our people deserve the same high-speed internet as the rest of the country. Their mission of serving rural communities already sets an example.”

IdeaTek will have a meet and greet and ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16 at the Liberal Chamber of Commerce, 4 Rock Island Road. The team will be available to answer questions about the construction build and about services.

The current project is just part of IdeaTek's growth into Seward County. In May, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced IdeaTek was one of 11 recipients awarded a Broadband Acceleration Grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce. The award allowed IdeaTek to build fiber to 220 rural homes in eastern Seward County. 

Based in Buhler, IdeaTek was founded by Daniel Friesen and four high school friends in 1999. Today, the company employs over 140 Kansans and is continuing to grow. The team is dedicated to the mission of connecting underserved communities with affordable high-speed internet.&nbsp;

To date, IdeaTek has deployed more than 4,000 miles of fiber — plus built more than 100 fixed wireless towers — serving customers in nearly 70 Kansas communities.&nbsp;

Residents and businesses interested in signing up for service can visit <a href="http://hookmeup.ideatek.com">http://hookmeup.ideatek.com</a> to enter their address and contact information. Or, they can call the IdeaTek sales team at 855-433-2835. To learn more about the construction process, visit <a href="http://ideatek.com/construction">ideatek.com/construction</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584960838544.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BUHLER, Kan. — Buhler-based IdeaTek has expanded its footprint into Liberal, giving businesses and households access to gigabit speeds at affordable prices.The expansion furthers the company’s mission of providing Internet Freedom to Kansas communities, said Daniel Friesen, IdeaTek’s Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer.“We are extremely excited for the opportunities this much-needed fiber investment will bring to Liberal,” he said. “Our mission of Internet Freedom means we believe everyone should have access to high-speed fiber internet – no matter where they live. We look forward to providing residents and businesses with the world-class connectivity they deserve.”Last year, IdeaTek deployed wireless internet to Liberal and surrounding area. It was developed as a temporary solution for remote areas. Friesen said that investment in fiber is a scalable solution for Kansas’ future growth. “Our mission is to build to the standards of the future, not today.”With this rollout, IdeaTek offers unlimited, uncapped, symmetrical speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second. IdeaTek also does not require contracts.&nbsp;Eli Svaty, the executive director of the Seward County Development Corporation, added that IdeaTek already has a proven track record in southwest Kansas, bringing fiber internet to residents in the nearby communities of Kismet, Plains. Meade, Minneola, Fowler, Ford and Bucklin.“Rural Kansas has been historically left behind when it comes to fiber infrastructure development,” Svaty said. “These communities were suffering from a lack of committed and quality providers. As a homegrown company from Kansas, IdeaTek knows what it means to be a Kansan and why our people deserve the same high-speed internet as the rest of the country. Their mission of serving rural communities already sets an example.”IdeaTek will have a meet and greet and ribbon cutting at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16 at the Liberal Chamber of Commerce, 4 Rock Island Road. The team will be available to answer questions about the construction build and about services.The current project is just part of IdeaTek's growth into Seward County. In May, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly announced IdeaTek was one of 11 recipients awarded a Broadband Acceleration Grant from the Kansas Department of Commerce. The award allowed IdeaTek to build fiber to 220 rural homes in eastern Seward County. Based in Buhler, IdeaTek was founded by Daniel Friesen and four high school friends in 1999. Today, the company employs over 140 Kansans and is continuing to grow. The team is dedicated to the mission of connecting underserved communities with affordable high-speed internet.&nbsp;To date, IdeaTek has deployed more than 4,000 miles of fiber — plus built more than 100 fixed wireless towers — serving customers in nearly 70 Kansas communities.&nbsp;Residents and businesses interested in signing up for service can visit <a href="http://hookmeup.ideatek.com">http://hookmeup.ideatek.com</a> to enter their address and contact information. Or, they can call the IdeaTek sales team at 855-433-2835. To learn more about the construction process, visit <a href="http://ideatek.com/construction">ideatek.com/construction</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; &nbsp;

IdeaTek now in Liberal with fiber

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners will consider a new burn resolution for the county at their meeting on Tuesday. 

According to agenda documents, the proposed resolution has been reviewed and edited by all of the fire chiefs in Reno County, the Kansas Forest Service, NRCS, Conservation District, District Attorney's Office, County Counselor and Emergency Management.

The biggest changes to the burn resolution are:

1. Requiring a burn permit before initiating a burn, on each parcel of land. A free burn permit can be acquired by <a href="https://www.renogov.org/593/Controlled-Burn-Guidelines">filling it out on the County's website.</a>

2. Due to large fires in 2022, stand alone brush piles also have more stringent requirements than the previous resolution.

3. Violation of the charter resolution, if passed, upon conviction, is a class B misdemeanor.

The resolution would take effect 60 days after publication, unless a&nbsp; petition demanding a vote of the electors is signed and filed in the office of the County Election Officer.

Below are the relevant new sections of the ordinance to be considered.

SECTION 1 – DEFINITIONS: “Open burning” shall mean for purposes of this Resolution the burning of brush, structures and construction debris, trash, and debris piles.

“Agricultural Open Burning” shall mean the open burning of vegetation such as grass, woody species, crop residue and other dry plant residue for the purpose of crop, range, pasture, wildlife, or other watershed management.

“Recreational Burning” shall mean burning conducted in a safe container with cover sufficient to prevent embers from escaping, outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, and fire pits. This shall not include cooking fires or burning for ceremonial purposes; provided, such fires are manageable and attended by a responsible person.

“Reasonable Person” shall mean a responsible, competent individual of majority age who is not under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.

SECTION 2 – This Resolution shall be applicable in the unincorporated area of Reno County, Kansas. This resolution may be adopted by any incorporated city inside the county. Burning within the boundaries of a Kansas State Park or federally owned land conducted in compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by such State Park or federally owned land shall be presumed safe in the absence of evidence to the contrary.

SECTION 3 – No person in an individual capacity or on behalf of a corporation, LLC, partnership, or other legal entity, shall conduct, permit, or allow Open Burning or Agricultural Open Burning when prohibited by this Resolution or when conducted in violation of the requirements hereinafter prescribed.

a. Prior to commencement of Open Burning or Agricultural Open burning, the party responsible for the burn shall obtain a burn permit for each parcel they intend to burn.

The permit can be obtained from <a href="http://www.renogov.org">www.renogov.org</a>. Each burn permit is valid from the date of issuance through the whole year, expiring December 31 of the year in which it is issued.

b. The holder of the burn permit shall notify Hutchinson/Reno County Emergency Communications Center (HRCEC) by telephone at 620-694-2800 of his or her intent to burn and shall provide his or her name, address, telephone number, permit number, and the location, nature, and circumstances of the proposed burn. Failure to provide prior notification of intent to burn as herein provided shall constitute a violation of this Resolution and subject the violator upon conviction to the penalties specified at Section 7.

HRCEC personnel shall advise the caller of the existence of any burn ban then in effect in Reno County and if the weather conditions are not favorable for burning.

c. The location for Open Burning, Agricultural Open Burning, and Recreational Burning shall not be less than 50 feet from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet of any structure.

d. Open Burning, Agricultural Open Burning, and Recreational Burning are prohibited when any of the following factors are applicable, to wit:

2) When the wind speed is more than 15 mph as applied to Open Burning only;

3) When the grassland fire danger index is VERY HIGH; OR ABOVE anytime during the day of the burn;

4) When Open Burning or Agricultural Burning will commence earlier than one hour before sunrise or later than two hours prior to sunset;

5) When a burn creates a safety hazard at an airport or a traffic safety hazard.

e. Stand alone brush piles may not be commenced when the fire index is forecasted to be VERY HIGH or ABOVE anytime during the 72 hours after ignition. Brush piles will have at least a one hundred (100) foot fire break from any combustible material or structures. City and County owned brush sites may be exempt from Section 3d, provided the jurisdiction having authority conducts a site inspection and approves the burn.

f. No open burning or agricultural open burning may be commenced later than thirty (30) minutes following notification of the proposed burn to the Emergency Communications Center.

g. For Agricultural Open Burning, brush piles within the burn area must be a minimum one hundred (100) feet from all property lines. A fire break of at least thirty (30) feet on all sides of the field proposed to be burned shall be provided by the responsible person.

h. For Open Burns, adequate clearance from combustible materials unintended for burning and a minimum of one hundred (100) feet from all structures shall be provided and maintained by the responsible party.

i. Open Burning materials shall not include heavy smoke-producing materials, such as heavy oils, tires, pallets, railroad, and bridge lumber, treated lumber, plastics, or rubber.

j. The responsible person shall ensure that all Open Burning, Agricultural Open Burning, and Recreational Burning conducted shall be supervised at all times by a reasonable person until the threat of fire has been eliminated.

k. In any prosecution for violation of this Resolution made pursuant to Section 7 below, it shall be prima facie evidence that the person who owns or controls the property on which burning occurs has caused or permitted the open burning.

SECTION 4 – TEMPORARY BURN BAN: In addition to other burn ban authority, the County Emergency Management Director (the “Director”) or the County Fire Administrator (the “Fire Administrator”) in the absence of said Director, shall have the authority to issue a Temporary Burn Ban Order to be effective for up to twelve (12) hours. Said Order may be issued when in the discretion of the Director or the Fire Administrator insufficient fire apparatus or fire response personnel are available for emergency response. Temporary Burn Ban Orders shall be issued in written form and provided to HRCECC by hand delivery, by e-mail, or by fax. A District Fire Chief or his/her designee may temporarily prohibit an individual from burning for the remainder of the day if that individual was unable to properly maintain their burn.

SECTION 5 – BURN BAN: A burn ban can be put in place in the form of a local disaster declaration by the Board of County Commissioners. This burn ban shall pertain to all open burning and agricultural open burning in the unincorporated areas of the county.

SECTION 6 – No District Fire Chief or his designee shall have the authority to waive or contravene the provision of this regulation; PROVIDED, fire suppression activities supervised by Fire District personnel during an emergency response shall be exempt from the requirements of this regulation.

SECTION 7 – PENALTY. Any person or other entity who violates this Resolution shall upon conviction be guilty of a class B misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine of not more than One&nbsp;Thousand Dollars($1,000) or confinement in the Reno County Correctional Facility (Jail) for a period not to exceed 180 days, or both such fine and imprisonment. 

Further, in the discretion of the presiding Judge, any person convicted for violating this Resolution shall make restitution to property owners for actual damages and also to any Fire District for costs and expenses incurred by the Fire District&nbsp;and other firefighting and emergency personnel responding to the scene of the burn due to the conduct constituting the violation.

SECTION 8 – This Resolution supersedes and repeals Reno County Resolution 2017-12.

SECTION 9 – This Charter Resolution shall be published once each week for two consecutive weeks in the official county newspaper. This Charter Resolution shall take effect 60 days&nbsp;after final publication unless a petition signed by a number of electors in Reno County equal to not less than 2% of the number of electors who voted in the last November election or 100 electors, whichever is greater, shall be filed in the office of the County Election Officer demanding that such&nbsp;Resolution be submitted to a vote of the electors. An election, if called, shall be called within 30 days, and held within 90 days after filing the petition with the county election officer. The Board of County Commissioners shall, by Resolution, call the election and fix the date, which Resolution shall&nbsp;be published once each week for three consecutive weeks in the official county newspaper.

SECTION 10. This Charter Resolution shall be recorded by the Reno County Clerk in a book maintained for that purpose.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661441956328.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of County Commissioners will consider a new burn resolution for the county at their meeting on Tuesday. According to agenda documents, the proposed resolution has been reviewed and edited by all of the fire chiefs in Reno County, the Kansas Forest Service, NRCS, Conservation District, District Attorney's Office, County Counselor and Emergency Management.The biggest changes to the burn resolution are:1. Requiring a burn permit before initiating a burn, on each parcel of land. A free burn permit can be acquired by <a href="https://www.renogov.org/593/Controlled-Burn-Guidelines">filling it out on the County's website.</a>2. Due to large fires in 2022, stand alone brush piles also have more stringent requirements than the previous resolution.3. Violation of the charter resolution, if passed, upon conviction, is a class B misdemeanor.The resolution would take effect 60 days after publication, unless a&nbsp; petition demanding a vote of the electors is signed and filed in the office of the County Election Officer.Below are the relevant new sections of the ordinance to be considered.SECTION 1 – DEFINITIONS: “Open burning” shall mean for purposes of this Resolution the burning of brush, structures and construction debris, trash, and debris piles.“Agricultural Open Burning” shall mean the open burning of vegetation such as grass, woody species, crop residue and other dry plant residue for the purpose of crop, range, pasture, wildlife, or other watershed management.“Recreational Burning” shall mean burning conducted in a safe container with cover sufficient to prevent embers from escaping, outdoor fireplaces, chimineas, and fire pits. This shall not include cooking fires or burning for ceremonial purposes; provided, such fires are manageable and attended by a responsible person.“Reasonable Person” shall mean a responsible, competent individual of majority age who is not under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.SECTION 2 – This Resolution shall be applicable in the unincorporated area of Reno County, Kansas. This resolution may be adopted by any incorporated city inside the county. Burning within the boundaries of a Kansas State Park or federally owned land conducted in compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by such State Park or federally owned land shall be presumed safe in the absence of evidence to the contrary.SECTION 3 – No person in an individual capacity or on behalf of a corporation, LLC, partnership, or other legal entity, shall conduct, permit, or allow Open Burning or Agricultural Open Burning when prohibited by this Resolution or when conducted in violation of the requirements hereinafter prescribed.a. Prior to commencement of Open Burning or Agricultural Open burning, the party responsible for the burn shall obtain a burn permit for each parcel they intend to burn.The permit can be obtained from <a href="http://www.renogov.org">www.renogov.org</a>. Each burn permit is valid from the date of issuance through the whole year, expiring December 31 of the year in which it is issued.b. The holder of the burn permit shall notify Hutchinson/Reno County Emergency Communications Center (HRCEC) by telephone at 620-694-2800 of his or her intent to burn and shall provide his or her name, address, telephone number, permit number, and the location, nature, and circumstances of the proposed burn. Failure to provide prior notification of intent to burn as herein provided shall constitute a violation of this Resolution and subject the violator upon conviction to the penalties specified at Section 7.HRCEC personnel shall advise the caller of the existence of any burn ban then in effect in Reno County and if the weather conditions are not favorable for burning.c. The location for Open Burning, Agricultural Open Burning, and Recreational Burning shall not be less than 50 feet from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet of any structure.d. Open Burning, Agricultural Open Burning, and Recreational Burning are prohibited when any of the following factors are applicable, to wit:1) When a burn ban is in effect;2) When the wind speed is more than 15 mph as applied to Open Burning only;3) When the grassland fire danger index is VERY HIGH; OR ABOVE anytime during the day of the burn;4) When Open Burning or Agricultural Burning will commence earlier than one hour before sunrise or later than two hours prior to sunset;5) When a burn creates a safety hazard at an airport or a traffic safety hazard.e. Stand alone brush piles may not be commenced when the fire index is forecasted to be VERY HIGH or ABOVE anytime during the 72 hours after ignition. Brush piles will have at least a one hundred (100) foot fire break from any combustible material or structures. City and County owned brush sites may be exempt from Section 3d, provided the jurisdiction having authority conducts a site inspection and approves the burn.f. No open burning or agricultural open burning may be commenced later than thirty (30) minutes following notification of the proposed burn to the Emergency Communications Center.g. For Agricultural Open Burning, brush piles within the burn area must be a minimum one hundred (100) feet from all property lines. A fire break of at least thirty (30) feet on all sides of the field proposed to be burned shall be provided by the responsible person.h. For Open Burns, adequate clearance from combustible materials unintended for burning and a minimum of one hundred (100) feet from all structures shall be provided and maintained by the responsible party.i. Open Burning materials shall not include heavy smoke-producing materials, such as heavy oils, tires, pallets, railroad, and bridge lumber, treated lumber, plastics, or rubber.j. The responsible person shall ensure that all Open Burning, Agricultural Open Burning, and Recreational Burning conducted shall be supervised at all times by a reasonable person until the threat of fire has been eliminated.k. In any prosecution for violation of this Resolution made pursuant to Section 7 below, it shall be prima facie evidence that the person who owns or controls the property on which burning occurs has caused or permitted the open burning.SECTION 4 – TEMPORARY BURN BAN: In addition to other burn ban authority, the County Emergency Management Director (the “Director”) or the County Fire Administrator (the “Fire Administrator”) in the absence of said Director, shall have the authority to issue a Temporary Burn Ban Order to be effective for up to twelve (12) hours. Said Order may be issued when in the discretion of the Director or the Fire Administrator insufficient fire apparatus or fire response personnel are available for emergency response. Temporary Burn Ban Orders shall be issued in written form and provided to HRCECC by hand delivery, by e-mail, or by fax. A District Fire Chief or his/her designee may temporarily prohibit an individual from burning for the remainder of the day if that individual was unable to properly maintain their burn.SECTION 5 – BURN BAN: A burn ban can be put in place in the form of a local disaster declaration by the Board of County Commissioners. This burn ban shall pertain to all open burning and agricultural open burning in the unincorporated areas of the county.SECTION 6 – No District Fire Chief or his designee shall have the authority to waive or contravene the provision of this regulation; PROVIDED, fire suppression activities supervised by Fire District personnel during an emergency response shall be exempt from the requirements of this regulation.SECTION 7 – PENALTY. Any person or other entity who violates this Resolution shall upon conviction be guilty of a class B misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine of not more than One&nbsp;Thousand Dollars($1,000) or confinement in the Reno County Correctional Facility (Jail) for a period not to exceed 180 days, or both such fine and imprisonment. Further, in the discretion of the presiding Judge, any person convicted for violating this Resolution shall make restitution to property owners for actual damages and also to any Fire District for costs and expenses incurred by the Fire District&nbsp;and other firefighting and emergency personnel responding to the scene of the burn due to the conduct constituting the violation.SECTION 8 – This Resolution supersedes and repeals Reno County Resolution 2017-12.SECTION 9 – This Charter Resolution shall be published once each week for two consecutive weeks in the official county newspaper. This Charter Resolution shall take effect 60 days&nbsp;after final publication unless a petition signed by a number of electors in Reno County equal to not less than 2% of the number of electors who voted in the last November election or 100 electors, whichever is greater, shall be filed in the office of the County Election Officer demanding that such&nbsp;Resolution be submitted to a vote of the electors. An election, if called, shall be called within 30 days, and held within 90 days after filing the petition with the county election officer. The Board of County Commissioners shall, by Resolution, call the election and fix the date, which Resolution shall&nbsp;be published once each week for three consecutive weeks in the official county newspaper.SECTION 10. This Charter Resolution shall be recorded by the Reno County Clerk in a book maintained for that purpose.<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;

New county burn resolution on agenda

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even though they aren't going to buy the building, the Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education is going to entertain a proposal by the Boys &amp; Girls Club to make physical changes at Ave. A School to enhance their program and increase safety.

A presentation by the club is on the agenda for Monday night's board meeting, though a final vote will likely take place at a future meeting. 

Also on Monday, the board will consider a proposal to install security glass at four additional schools in the district. The proposal from Sturgeon Glass &amp; Mirror for&nbsp;$149,600 is for EntryGuard® glass. It will be paid for half from capital outlay and half from the Safe and Secure Schools state grant.&nbsp; 

Monday's meeting is at 6:00 p.m. at the&nbsp;USD 308 Administration Center at 1520 N. Plum St.&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/2022/6/1655147159618.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Even though they aren't going to buy the building, the Hutchinson USD 308 Board of Education is going to entertain a proposal by the Boys &amp; Girls Club to make physical changes at Ave. A School to enhance their program and increase safety.A presentation by the club is on the agenda for Monday night's board meeting, though a final vote will likely take place at a future meeting. Also on Monday, the board will consider a proposal to install security glass at four additional schools in the district. The proposal from Sturgeon Glass &amp; Mirror for&nbsp;$149,600 is for EntryGuard® glass. It will be paid for half from capital outlay and half from the Safe and Secure Schools state grant.&nbsp; Monday's meeting is at 6:00 p.m. at the&nbsp;USD 308 Administration Center at 1520 N. Plum St.&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;

Boys & Girls Club to present to school board

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As it does every Christmas season, next week the Polar Express rolls into the Carey Digital Dome Theater at the Cosmosphere. For some families, bringing children in pajamas to see the Christmas classic is an annual tradition.

This year, opening night for Polar Express on Dec. 16 at the Cosmosphere will be extra special. The Salvation Army will bring their canteen vehicle to the Cosmosphere parking lot to serve free cocoa, coffee, and Sugartime Confections cookies beginning at 6:00 p.m. that night.

At 7:00 p.m. that evening, the first of Cosmosphere’s 2022 Polar Express screenings begins. Additional showings continue December 17 through January 1. 

The film, based on the children’s book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg, tells the story of a young boy’s journey to the North Pole aboard a magical train.

For tickets and more information, visit <a href="http://cosmo.org/exhibitions/theater">cosmo.org/exhibitions/theater</a>.

Cocoa, coffee,&nbsp;and cookies are available for opening night only. Children are invited to attend any Polar Express showing in their favorite pajamas.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670596695884.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As it does every Christmas season, next week the Polar Express rolls into the Carey Digital Dome Theater at the Cosmosphere. For some families, bringing children in pajamas to see the Christmas classic is an annual tradition.This year, opening night for Polar Express on Dec. 16 at the Cosmosphere will be extra special. The Salvation Army will bring their canteen vehicle to the Cosmosphere parking lot to serve free cocoa, coffee, and Sugartime Confections cookies beginning at 6:00 p.m. that night.At 7:00 p.m. that evening, the first of Cosmosphere’s 2022 Polar Express screenings begins. Additional showings continue December 17 through January 1. The film, based on the children’s book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg, tells the story of a young boy’s journey to the North Pole aboard a magical train.For tickets and more information, visit <a href="http://cosmo.org/exhibitions/theater">cosmo.org/exhibitions/theater</a>. Cocoa, coffee,&nbsp;and cookies are available for opening night only. Children are invited to attend any Polar Express showing in their favorite pajamas.
<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, Cosmosphere come together to kick off Polar Express

UPDATE: Police vehicle involved in accident, investigation continues

ST. JOHN, Kan. — The Stafford County Child Care Committee said progress on their building at 413 N. Pearl Street in St. John that will be a child care center continues.

"The building has been assembled," the group said Thursday. "The skirting and decking are installed. Utilities have been getting hooked up this week."

The facility is still several months from being operational. 

"The state fire marshal should complete their inspection this month," the group said.&nbsp; 

In order to have a licensed facility, anyone who is hired will need to become licensed by KDHE which is a 90+ day process.&nbsp;If you are interested in applying, email your resume and three references by December 30 to <a href="mailto:staffordcochildcare@gmail.com">staffordcochildcare@gmail.com</a>.

While the licensing process is underway, necessary modifications will be made to the building.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670595145977.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ST. JOHN, Kan. — The Stafford County Child Care Committee said progress on their building at 413 N. Pearl Street in St. John that will be a child care center continues."The building has been assembled," the group said Thursday. "The skirting and decking are installed. Utilities have been getting hooked up this week."The facility is still several months from being operational. "The state fire marshal should complete their inspection this month," the group said.&nbsp; In order to have a licensed facility, anyone who is hired will need to become licensed by KDHE which is a 90+ day process.&nbsp;If you are interested in applying, email your resume and three references by December 30 to <a href="mailto:staffordcochildcare@gmail.com">staffordcochildcare@gmail.com</a>.While the licensing process is underway, necessary modifications will be made to the building.&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;

Stafford County Child Care Committee reports on building

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Knocknasheega?__cft__[0]=AZW36Rhux3Ab4Ph0PvBY1tuFNyWjqeuauJtrHhDXR53NPRs63HS7stHlneMbBEXO732WqvuVonfL3FarGTlsnMLMv249UehPp9LUHltMCD-gI93z3SlJmLrvAPy-3SHuRO81HfFRjMXsgB8j7sYPA-FtII_l2qNBWea2ScSp6wxgQdl9d3Dn3hIYvv8aSsKIAMk&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Knocknasheega</a> Celtic Band will be returning for their third time to perform with the Hutchinson Symphony for their Christmas Concert this weekend. The concert is sponsored by First National Bank.

The concert is Sunday, December 11th, at 3 p.m. at the Fox Theatre.

Area high school choirs and Anderson Concerto Winners will also be part of the program.

You can purchase tickets at the Fox box office during regular business hours, online at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hutchsymphony.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2gyPThl5Is1j20UvA223hJ1jPn4O8oKYsfZxjvTE9USazIOCfmqq2c3Vs&amp;h=AT3P9itcsmeHBNBcT6VSXCzkyI9FTvO-oqBde0_M2J25uFG-3dFmhOCKzoVIQMVKW5OkoCuHhCHINEZ5t6HWfSutKqZEP1Qoe9oEBv0xTaNph_d9IHlopJTCbhwhv5BEug&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1Cejqs3ah1UIQSF9rJ-N_jBToA5lw5hYRWGeSyNiWD_aWvKzRI59wYwNr5riciopsQZdAUxLMaSZ0RXL4_yE2Gy7Sl1hvDBYA27-FE9CLgmE0nzQYzlGJ_zTag-d6RA6beBS_gQqeMYtmKXLxQuM_o3Gmyl1Dlph3lu2i5LUFN_2lqWpJdMhtPpuazfUiPbbYisjdiKPHG" target="_blank">www.hutchsymphony.org</a> or before the concert.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670589848311.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Knocknasheega?__cft__[0]=AZW36Rhux3Ab4Ph0PvBY1tuFNyWjqeuauJtrHhDXR53NPRs63HS7stHlneMbBEXO732WqvuVonfL3FarGTlsnMLMv249UehPp9LUHltMCD-gI93z3SlJmLrvAPy-3SHuRO81HfFRjMXsgB8j7sYPA-FtII_l2qNBWea2ScSp6wxgQdl9d3Dn3hIYvv8aSsKIAMk&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Knocknasheega</a> Celtic Band will be returning for their third time to perform with the Hutchinson Symphony for their Christmas Concert this weekend. The concert is sponsored by First National Bank.The concert is Sunday, December 11th, at 3 p.m. at the Fox Theatre.Area high school choirs and Anderson Concerto Winners will also be part of the program.You can purchase tickets at the Fox box office during regular business hours, online at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hutchsymphony.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2gyPThl5Is1j20UvA223hJ1jPn4O8oKYsfZxjvTE9USazIOCfmqq2c3Vs&amp;h=AT3P9itcsmeHBNBcT6VSXCzkyI9FTvO-oqBde0_M2J25uFG-3dFmhOCKzoVIQMVKW5OkoCuHhCHINEZ5t6HWfSutKqZEP1Qoe9oEBv0xTaNph_d9IHlopJTCbhwhv5BEug&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1Cejqs3ah1UIQSF9rJ-N_jBToA5lw5hYRWGeSyNiWD_aWvKzRI59wYwNr5riciopsQZdAUxLMaSZ0RXL4_yE2Gy7Sl1hvDBYA27-FE9CLgmE0nzQYzlGJ_zTag-d6RA6beBS_gQqeMYtmKXLxQuM_o3Gmyl1Dlph3lu2i5LUFN_2lqWpJdMhtPpuazfUiPbbYisjdiKPHG" target="_blank">www.hutchsymphony.org</a> or before the concert.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Symphony Christmas Concert coming up

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Zion Burgess is the 2023 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bgchutch?__cft__[0]=AZXRkhNoXQB4bgIP0nQMPyW5HIIwPBtZPLe4LuZYH-mSiFx0dkBz-Funl86KZuvWeCgLgBczQThDs6lyVKVhaNP49zxNsTLThT9TXxxWPRqjbnPIj8UpJZx-p0dRBjr-8DP4hTzJnAddAv6mxE6zSelzjFPWsgZTbAykunRxLjWDlQEIjA1rVftIOUf7PjGyy1U&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson</a> Youth of the Year.&nbsp; The award was announced Thursday at the annual banquet at the Burt in Hutchinson.&nbsp;

The Youth of the Year title is a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle.

Burgess is a junior at Hutchinson High School and has been a Club member for 5 years. Zion plays football for Hutchinson High School and is active in Club programs such as Passport 2 Manhood, Keystone Club, and Road Code. Zion enjoys helping kids break out of their shells and encouraging them to have a voice.

As the local Youth of the Year, Burgess will serve as an ambassador for all teens in the local Club. Burgess will receive a $1,000 college scholarship thanks to Heartland Credit Union and will compete in the Kansas Youth of the Year competition next spring.

<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/2022/12/1670585650346.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Zion Burgess is the 2023 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bgchutch?__cft__[0]=AZXRkhNoXQB4bgIP0nQMPyW5HIIwPBtZPLe4LuZYH-mSiFx0dkBz-Funl86KZuvWeCgLgBczQThDs6lyVKVhaNP49zxNsTLThT9TXxxWPRqjbnPIj8UpJZx-p0dRBjr-8DP4hTzJnAddAv6mxE6zSelzjFPWsgZTbAykunRxLjWDlQEIjA1rVftIOUf7PjGyy1U&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of Hutchinson</a> Youth of the Year.&nbsp; The award was announced Thursday at the annual banquet at the Burt in Hutchinson.&nbsp;The Youth of the Year title is a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle.Burgess is a junior at Hutchinson High School and has been a Club member for 5 years. Zion plays football for Hutchinson High School and is active in Club programs such as Passport 2 Manhood, Keystone Club, and Road Code. Zion enjoys helping kids break out of their shells and encouraging them to have a voice.As the local Youth of the Year, Burgess will serve as an ambassador for all teens in the local Club. Burgess will receive a $1,000 college scholarship thanks to Heartland Credit Union and will compete in the Kansas Youth of the Year competition next spring.<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;

Burgess is 2023 Youth of the Year

MCPHERSON, Kan. — On Thursday, McPherson Police Chief Mikel Golden graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. 

Assistant Chief Todd Martens wrote in a release that Chief Golden began training at the FBI National Academy 10 weeks ago, in mid-October and successfully completed the training this week. Chief Golden’s training included classroom instruction, physical fitness, and more. 

Golden has dedicated over 15 years of law enforcement service to the McPherson community. He joined the McPherson Police Department in October 2006 as a Patrol Officer. While attending the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center - Class 189, his classmates voted him Class President. 

In 2008, Chief Golden was promoted to Detective and was selected for the Police Specialty Team. Assignments included the McPherson Drug Task Force in 2010 followed by the Assistant Team Leader for the Emergency Response Team in 2018. 

Chief Golden was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police and Commander of the Emergency Response Team in April 2018. On September 30, 2019, Chief Golden was promoted to Chief of Police. 

Chief Golden is a member of the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police and the Kansas Peace Officers Association. He has served on professional boards including the Kansas Gang Investigator Association (Regional Representative), Kansas Narcotics Officer Association (Regional Representative), McPherson County Crime Stoppers (Coordinator), McPherson Police Department Benefit Association (President) and City of McPherson Safety Committee. 

Chief Golden holds Bachelor of Science Degrees in Criminal Justice and in Business Organizational Leadership from Central Christian College of Kansas. He is also a graduate of FBI-LEEDA (Trilogy), the Kansas Police Administrators Seminar, Leadership McPherson, and the KU Law Enforcement Leadership Academy.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670541640510.jpeg" alt="GoldenFBIAcademy" />
 <figcaption>GoldenFBIAcademy</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON, Kan. — On Thursday, McPherson Police Chief Mikel Golden graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Assistant Chief Todd Martens wrote in a release that Chief Golden began training at the FBI National Academy 10 weeks ago, in mid-October and successfully completed the training this week. Chief Golden’s training included classroom instruction, physical fitness, and more. Golden has dedicated over 15 years of law enforcement service to the McPherson community. He joined the McPherson Police Department in October 2006 as a Patrol Officer. While attending the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center - Class 189, his classmates voted him Class President. In 2008, Chief Golden was promoted to Detective and was selected for the Police Specialty Team. Assignments included the McPherson Drug Task Force in 2010 followed by the Assistant Team Leader for the Emergency Response Team in 2018. Chief Golden was promoted to Assistant Chief of Police and Commander of the Emergency Response Team in April 2018. On September 30, 2019, Chief Golden was promoted to Chief of Police. Chief Golden is a member of the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police and the Kansas Peace Officers Association. He has served on professional boards including the Kansas Gang Investigator Association (Regional Representative), Kansas Narcotics Officer Association (Regional Representative), McPherson County Crime Stoppers (Coordinator), McPherson Police Department Benefit Association (President) and City of McPherson Safety Committee. Chief Golden holds Bachelor of Science Degrees in Criminal Justice and in Business Organizational Leadership from Central Christian College of Kansas. He is also a graduate of FBI-LEEDA (Trilogy), the Kansas Police Administrators Seminar, Leadership McPherson, and the KU Law Enforcement Leadership Academy.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

McPherson Police Chief completes FBI Academy

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Donors to the Salvation Army's red kettles this weekend in Hutchinson can double their money. 

Major Paul James tells Hutch Post that individual donors and Kiwanis are matching dollar for dollar for donations put in kettles around town.&nbsp; 

Their goal is to challenge the rest of the community to continue donating to The Salvation Army’s red kettles around town.&nbsp; 

The cost of food for Christmas Food Baskets has increased significantly and the order for food has already been placed.&nbsp; The Salvation Army also has a long way to go to ensure that every child in need this season will receive gifts.&nbsp; 

Also, if you are able, pick up a tag on the angel tree at Walmart to help make sure every child receives a toy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1564176522240.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Donors to the Salvation Army's red kettles this weekend in Hutchinson can double their money. Major Paul James tells Hutch Post that individual donors and Kiwanis are matching dollar for dollar for donations put in kettles around town.&nbsp; Their goal is to challenge the rest of the community to continue donating to The Salvation Army’s red kettles around town.&nbsp; The cost of food for Christmas Food Baskets has increased significantly and the order for food has already been placed.&nbsp; The Salvation Army also has a long way to go to ensure that every child in need this season will receive gifts.&nbsp; Also, if you are able, pick up a tag on the angel tree at Walmart to help make sure every child receives a toy.<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;

Red kettle donations doubled this weekend

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The holiday festivities continue in Hutchinson, as <a href="https://www.rchcks.org/" target="_blank">Reno County Homeschool Connection (RCHC)</a> and the Oaks Academy of Arts (OAA) will perform their third White Christmas production, starting today, Dec. 8 until Dec. 10 at Memorial Hall.&nbsp;

Described as a variety show&nbsp;akin to&nbsp;Branson, Mo. productions, around 100 area homeschool students will be singing, dancing, playing instruments and doing dramatic scenes. &nbsp;

“This is our third time doing this show, we do it every other year,” Stephanie Miller, vice president of Reno County Homeschool Connection, said. “We started in 2018, with a group of kids who had very little experience working together with music. Some of them had some musical experience, but not a whole lot as whole group.” &nbsp;

Miller said, the first production featured 50 kids. &nbsp;

“The second year, we did it during COVID,” Miller said. “That was a tough year to do any theatre.”&nbsp;

 The Oaks Academy of Arts side of Reno County Homeschool Connection was started two years ago. &nbsp;

“We wanted our homeschool kids to be able to have a place where they can do the arts, including private music lessons, dance lessons,” Miller said. &nbsp;

Janice Marcum, RCHC treasurer,&nbsp;added, “boxing, wrestling, martial arts.” &nbsp;

 Miller continued, “things like that that would be really hard for homeschoolers to get on the side, because as a mom you’re with all of your kids, it’s not like you drop them and they get to do that stuff at school.” &nbsp;

Before, homeschool parents would have to travel around the local area to drop kids off at extracurricular activities. Miller called OAA a more efficient and affordable alternative for the homeschool community enrolled in RCHC. &nbsp;

“I think we save parents about 30% for enrolling their kids in just a dance class,” Miller said.&nbsp;

  The schedule for OAA, tries to tailor to parent work schedules so that families are able to spend more time together at home, which is important to the RCHC.&nbsp;

Overall, RCHC strives to defeat the loneliness that can come through homeschooling, by being a community-driven homeschool co-op, when giving kids and families a place to come together. &nbsp;

This is reflected in programs, like the White Christmas production.&nbsp;

“The theme of our White Christmas this year, is that when we work together you actually have a better outcome,” Miller said. “Whether we’re doing co-op here or we’re doing White Christmas together, you have a better outcome when you have people to do it with and our kids have connections with other kids.&nbsp;

Miller is also the director of the White Christmas production, while Marcum is the assistant director. &nbsp;

 Miller said, she envisions the White Christmas productions as more than a Christmas program. &nbsp;

“What we do, is we start planning about a year in advance for this,” Miller said. “We start thinking about what kids do we have, what skills do they have, or what skills are they willing to grow in over the next year to where we can use them in a program to make it a Branson-style show. Which means, it’s not just the choir getting up, it’s not just the dance team getting up, it’s usually a mixture of all of our people.”&nbsp;

Additionally, kids who have participated in past productions mentor current participants. &nbsp;

The storyline weaved through the performance is all about togetherness.

The production will feature 27 songs, various dance routines, bluegrass performances, orchestral performances, solo performers, and more. &nbsp;

Kids and parents have been heavily involved in the choreography and writing process of the production.&nbsp;

There will be photo opportunities with the White Christmas performers. &nbsp;

People will also be able to visit the Oaks Christmas Store and Vendor Village in Memorial&nbsp;Hall for Christmas shopping. &nbsp;

Tickets can still be <a href="https://www.rchcks.org/white-christmas-productions-2022" target="_blank">ordered online</a> for the next three days, and are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. People can&nbsp;call&nbsp;(620) 440-6009 for table tickets.&nbsp;

Doors open at 6 p.m., with the pre-show at 6:30 p.m. and the performance at 7 p.m.&nbsp;

Memorial Hall is located at 101 S. Walnut St. in Hutchinson. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670531555943.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The holiday festivities continue in Hutchinson, as <a href="https://www.rchcks.org/" target="_blank">Reno County Homeschool Connection (RCHC)</a> and the Oaks Academy of Arts (OAA) will perform their third White Christmas production, starting today, Dec. 8 until Dec. 10 at Memorial Hall.&nbsp;Described as a variety show&nbsp;akin to&nbsp;Branson, Mo. productions, around 100 area homeschool students will be singing, dancing, playing instruments and doing dramatic scenes. &nbsp;“This is our third time doing this show, we do it every other year,” Stephanie Miller, vice president of Reno County Homeschool Connection, said. “We started in 2018, with a group of kids who had very little experience working together with music. Some of them had some musical experience, but not a whole lot as whole group.” &nbsp;Miller said, the first production featured 50 kids. &nbsp;“The second year, we did it during COVID,” Miller said. “That was a tough year to do any theatre.”&nbsp; The Oaks Academy of Arts side of Reno County Homeschool Connection was started two years ago. &nbsp;“We wanted our homeschool kids to be able to have a place where they can do the arts, including private music lessons, dance lessons,” Miller said. &nbsp;Janice Marcum, RCHC treasurer,&nbsp;added, “boxing, wrestling, martial arts.” &nbsp; Miller continued, “things like that that would be really hard for homeschoolers to get on the side, because as a mom you’re with all of your kids, it’s not like you drop them and they get to do that stuff at school.” &nbsp;Before, homeschool parents would have to travel around the local area to drop kids off at extracurricular activities. Miller called OAA a more efficient and affordable alternative for the homeschool community enrolled in RCHC. &nbsp;“I think we save parents about 30% for enrolling their kids in just a dance class,” Miller said.&nbsp; The schedule for OAA, tries to tailor to parent work schedules so that families are able to spend more time together at home, which is important to the RCHC.&nbsp;Overall, RCHC strives to defeat the loneliness that can come through homeschooling, by being a community-driven homeschool co-op, when giving kids and families a place to come together. &nbsp;This is reflected in programs, like the White Christmas production.&nbsp;“The theme of our White Christmas this year, is that when we work together you actually have a better outcome,” Miller said. “Whether we’re doing co-op here or we’re doing White Christmas together, you have a better outcome when you have people to do it with and our kids have connections with other kids.&nbsp;Miller is also the director of the White Christmas production, while Marcum is the assistant director. &nbsp; Miller said, she envisions the White Christmas productions as more than a Christmas program. &nbsp;“What we do, is we start planning about a year in advance for this,” Miller said. “We start thinking about what kids do we have, what skills do they have, or what skills are they willing to grow in over the next year to where we can use them in a program to make it a Branson-style show. Which means, it’s not just the choir getting up, it’s not just the dance team getting up, it’s usually a mixture of all of our people.”&nbsp;Additionally, kids who have participated in past productions mentor current participants. &nbsp;The storyline weaved through the performance is all about togetherness.The production will feature 27 songs, various dance routines, bluegrass performances, orchestral performances, solo performers, and more. &nbsp;Kids and parents have been heavily involved in the choreography and writing process of the production.&nbsp;There will be photo opportunities with the White Christmas performers. &nbsp;People will also be able to visit the Oaks Christmas Store and Vendor Village in Memorial&nbsp;Hall for Christmas shopping. &nbsp;Tickets can still be <a href="https://www.rchcks.org/white-christmas-productions-2022" target="_blank">ordered online</a> for the next three days, and are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. People can&nbsp;call&nbsp;(620) 440-6009 for table tickets.&nbsp;Doors open at 6 p.m., with the pre-show at 6:30 p.m. and the performance at 7 p.m.&nbsp;Memorial Hall is located at 101 S. Walnut St. in Hutchinson. &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;

Homeschool group presenting "White Christmas"

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;AAA urges everyone to prioritize safety when transporting a live Christmas tree and preventing it from becoming a fire hazard.

"We recommend, first of all, having the right kind of vehicle to transport it," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We recommend a vehicle with a roof rack. If you don't have a roof rack on your vehicle, use the bed of a pickup truck or an SUV, or inside a van or minivan, so you can fit the tree inside with all the doors closed."

According to AAA,&nbsp;44% of Americans who plan to purchase a real Christmas tree will transport the tree using unsafe methods.

"If you do need to fix it to the top of your vehicle, put down a blanket to protect your vehicle's paint from getting scratched," Steward said. "We don't recommend tying twine or rope through the window openings, because that can damage your windows, weather stripping inside your doors can be damaged from that."

Also, the tree on the roof changes the aerodynamics of the vehicle, so it might be good to take a different route.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670528216707.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;AAA urges everyone to prioritize safety when transporting a live Christmas tree and preventing it from becoming a fire hazard."We recommend, first of all, having the right kind of vehicle to transport it," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "We recommend a vehicle with a roof rack. If you don't have a roof rack on your vehicle, use the bed of a pickup truck or an SUV, or inside a van or minivan, so you can fit the tree inside with all the doors closed."According to AAA,&nbsp;44% of Americans who plan to purchase a real Christmas tree will transport the tree using unsafe methods."If you do need to fix it to the top of your vehicle, put down a blanket to protect your vehicle's paint from getting scratched," Steward said. "We don't recommend tying twine or rope through the window openings, because that can damage your windows, weather stripping inside your doors can be damaged from that."Also, the tree on the roof changes the aerodynamics of the vehicle, so it might be good to take a different route."We strongly recommend, if you can, take a route on your way home with the tree that's going to be slower speeds, maybe less traffic," Steward said. "That drag that's created by the tree on the top of your vehicle can cause an issue, we just want to make sure that we don't need to travel as fast."Before you leave the lot, give the tree several strong tugs from various directions to make sure it is secured in place and will not blow away.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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