HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards<a href="https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=139240"> notes that Kansas kids are doing better educationally than might be assumed from the amount of funding they receive.</a>

"Kansas continues to spend less per pupil than most states," Tallman said. "We rank about 28th in the country. We spend about 10% less per pupil from all sources. However, we continue to have, across an average of a number of educational outcomes, pretty strong educational results. Probably for the last five or six years, we've used a measure tracking things like national test scores, ACT, SAT, graduation rates. The most recent update we have is that Kansas is 13th in the country."

Kansas is competitive with its neighbor states.

"We're about in the middle point of the region, a little bit higher," Tallman said. "We've consistently been around the same as the region. What we've noticed, however, is that going back about 10 years, every state except Oklahoma has increased its funding per pupil more than Kansas."

Kansas provides more state funding than the U.S. average, but its school districts receive much less local and federal aid, so total funding is lower. This is a problem that the legislature might not be as able to easily solve, as there is a disparity in property value that already is equalized as part of the school finance formula.

"Lower wealth districts, districts with less property wealth, a much higher share of their budget will come from the state," Tallman said. "Our system now really does say that even property wealthy districts still get a lot of money from the state. Those districts may also be, if you kind of break it down by county, we're also talking about the share of income tax that goes to education, the share of sales tax. Property taxes, of course, are only a portion of school funding and in Kansas, a smaller portion than more states. We rely more heavily on state sales and income tax to fund education than some states do."

Per-pupil funding affects how states can compete based on salaries, class size, and the range of academic and student support programs.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582221969260.jpeg" alt="Mark Tallman Kansas Association of School Boards" />
 <figcaption>Mark Tallman Kansas Association of School Boards</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mark Tallman with the Kansas Association of School Boards<a href="https://www.kasb.org/45132?articleID=139240"> notes that Kansas kids are doing better educationally than might be assumed from the amount of funding they receive.</a>"Kansas continues to spend less per pupil than most states," Tallman said. "We rank about 28th in the country. We spend about 10% less per pupil from all sources. However, we continue to have, across an average of a number of educational outcomes, pretty strong educational results. Probably for the last five or six years, we've used a measure tracking things like national test scores, ACT, SAT, graduation rates. The most recent update we have is that Kansas is 13th in the country."Kansas is competitive with its neighbor states."We're about in the middle point of the region, a little bit higher," Tallman said. "We've consistently been around the same as the region. What we've noticed, however, is that going back about 10 years, every state except Oklahoma has increased its funding per pupil more than Kansas."Kansas provides more state funding than the U.S. average, but its school districts receive much less local and federal aid, so total funding is lower. This is a problem that the legislature might not be as able to easily solve, as there is a disparity in property value that already is equalized as part of the school finance formula."Lower wealth districts, districts with less property wealth, a much higher share of their budget will come from the state," Tallman said. "Our system now really does say that even property wealthy districts still get a lot of money from the state. Those districts may also be, if you kind of break it down by county, we're also talking about the share of income tax that goes to education, the share of sales tax. Property taxes, of course, are only a portion of school funding and in Kansas, a smaller portion than more states. We rely more heavily on state sales and income tax to fund education than some states do."Per-pupil funding affects how states can compete based on salaries, class size, and the range of academic and student support programs.<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;

Tallman: Kansas kids getting bang for the buck

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson 9-year-old is hoping that his hair can get a little love from the community over the next few weeks.

According to an email sent to Hutch Post by his dad, Tyler, Tucker Etienne is competing in the&nbsp;USA 2023 Kids Mullet Competition.

Round 1 started on Wednesday July 12th, and it will end on Monday July 17th. 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>.

Round 1 consists of receiving fan votes and collecting donations for <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;

The amount of money raised on behalf of each contestant will also contribute to the overall score of the contestant. Round 2 begins July 19th through July 23rd, and only the top 100 point scorers from Round 1 will advance for the second round.

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. 

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.

"Tucker has been growing his mullet out since COVID began in 2020," Tyler Etienne said. "We couldn't get haircuts and he decided he actually liked it longer. Shortly after, he decided he wanted to cut it into a mullet and it's been like that ever since!"

<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/2023/7/1689424797862.jpeg" alt="Tucker Etienne-Photo via Mullet Champ" />
 <figcaption>Tucker Etienne-Photo via Mullet Champ</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Hutchinson 9-year-old is hoping that his hair can get a little love from the community over the next few weeks.According to an email sent to Hutch Post by his dad, Tyler, Tucker Etienne is competing in the&nbsp;USA 2023 Kids Mullet Competition.Round 1 started on Wednesday July 12th, and it will end on Monday July 17th. 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>.Fans can vote once every 24 hours.&nbsp;Round 1 consists of receiving fan votes and collecting donations for <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;The amount of money raised on behalf of each contestant will also contribute to the overall score of the contestant. Round 2 begins July 19th through July 23rd, and only the top 100 point scorers from Round 1 will advance for the second round.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. 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."Tucker has been growing his mullet out since COVID began in 2020," Tyler Etienne said. "We couldn't get haircuts and he decided he actually liked it longer. Shortly after, he decided he wanted to cut it into a mullet and it's been like that ever since!"<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;

Hutch kid competing online in mullet competition

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Talk20 Hutch is a gathering of people and ideas that is coming up Friday, July 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Hutchinson Public Library.

Each January and July, 10 community members each present 20 images and speak for only 20 seconds per slide. The idea is that each presenter shares a story or an expertise or an interest through the combination of quick images and words to create a cohesive narrative of a chosen topic in 6 minutes 40 seconds.

Each Talk20 edition includes presenters with different topics, demographics, and geographic locations in Reno County.&nbsp;

You can follow&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/rocsyi/3pt3bn/rcjlk2" target="_blank">Talk20 on social media</a>&nbsp;to check out more details about the event, including the line-up of this edition's presenters. Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/rocsyi/3pt3bn/74jlk2" target="_blank">Talk20 Hutch web page</a>&nbsp;for more details about the Talk20 concept, history, and past presenters.&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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689421524634.jpeg" alt="Talk20HutchSummer" />
 <figcaption>Talk20HutchSummer</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Talk20 Hutch is a gathering of people and ideas that is coming up Friday, July 21 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Hutchinson Public Library.Each January and July, 10 community members each present 20 images and speak for only 20 seconds per slide. The idea is that each presenter shares a story or an expertise or an interest through the combination of quick images and words to create a cohesive narrative of a chosen topic in 6 minutes 40 seconds.Each Talk20 edition includes presenters with different topics, demographics, and geographic locations in Reno County.&nbsp;You can follow&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/rocsyi/3pt3bn/rcjlk2" target="_blank">Talk20 on social media</a>&nbsp;to check out more details about the event, including the line-up of this edition's presenters. Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://t.e2ma.net/click/rocsyi/3pt3bn/74jlk2" target="_blank">Talk20 Hutch web page</a>&nbsp;for more details about the Talk20 concept, history, and past presenters.&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.

Talk20 Hutch Summer Edition coming up Friday

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;

7/15/2023 8:26 PM-Jill	Annette Romero-Driving under the influence; 3rd conv in 10yrs; blood/breath .08+;w/in 3hrs child present

7/15/2023 2:40 PM-Sebastian	Michael Toland-DUI; 2nd conv; blood or breath .08 or higher

7/15/2023 1:59 PM-Angel	Antonio Rodriguez-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Criminal Deprivation of Property; Other than Motor Vehicle or Firearm; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator

7/15/2023 1:43 PM-James	Allan Bright-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator

<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; &nbsp;7/15/2023 8:26 PM-Jill	Annette Romero-Driving under the influence; 3rd conv in 10yrs; blood/breath .08+;w/in 3hrs child present7/15/2023 2:40 PM-Sebastian	Michael Toland-DUI; 2nd conv; blood or breath .08 or higher7/15/2023 1:59 PM-Angel	Antonio Rodriguez-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999; Criminal Deprivation of Property; Other than Motor Vehicle or Firearm; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator7/15/2023 1:43 PM-James	Allan Bright-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; DL Violation; Drive While Habitual Violator

Daily Bookings

RENO COUNTY —&nbsp;

The Reno County Board of Commissioners, acting as the governing body of Reno County Fire Districts, Reno County Sewer Districts, and Reno County Water Districts, will meet on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, during the regularly scheduled meeting at 9:00 a.m. in the Reno County Courthouse Veterans Room, 206 W. 1st., Hutchinson, KS, for the purpose of hearing and answering objections of taxpayers relating to the proposed use of all funds and the amount of ad valorem tax Revenue Neutral Rates. 

 Detailed budget information is available at the Reno County Clerk's office and will be available at this hearing.

A budget summary is available at <a href="https://renogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/11992/SpDistricts-RNR-Budget-Hearing-09-13-23">this link</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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689412679841.jpeg" alt="SpecialDistrictsRNR2024" />
 <figcaption>SpecialDistrictsRNR2024</figcaption>
 </figure>Reno CountyRENO COUNTY —&nbsp;

The Reno County Board of Commissioners, acting as the governing body of Reno County Fire Districts, Reno County Sewer Districts, and Reno County Water Districts, will meet on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, during the regularly scheduled meeting at 9:00 a.m. in the Reno County Courthouse Veterans Room, 206 W. 1st., Hutchinson, KS, for the purpose of hearing and answering objections of taxpayers relating to the proposed use of all funds and the amount of ad valorem tax Revenue Neutral Rates. Detailed budget information is available at the Reno County Clerk's office and will be available at this hearing.A budget summary is available at <a href="https://renogov.org/DocumentCenter/View/11992/SpDistricts-RNR-Budget-Hearing-09-13-23">this link</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;

County officially publishes intent to exceed RNR for Special Districts

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;

7/14/2023 9:38 PM-Thomas	James Sallee-Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

7/14/2023 9:09 PM-Cody	Wayne Ruddick-Probation Violation

7/14/2023 8:57 PM-Arthur	Anthony Allen-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999; Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises; Stalking; Conduct after receiving notice of protection order causing fear; 2nd conviction

7/14/2023 8:52 PM-Sarah	Beth Mendoza-Failure to Appear

7/14/2023 8:36 PM-Audra	Lynn Legron-Viol protection order; Abuse order

7/14/2023 7:50 PM-Jason	David Fike-Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)

7/14/2023 3:19 PM-Huntter	Lee Friesen-Failure to Appear

7/14/2023 3:02 PM-Nicholas	Michael Henderson-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,999

7/14/2023 12:44 PM-David	Larry Mendoza-Failure to Appear; Probation Violation

7/14/2023 12:15 PM-Dakota	Aaron Smith-Failure to Appear

7/14/2023 11:31 AM-Heriberto Martinez Jr.-Probation Violation

7/14/2023 11:09 AM-Kylee	Lynn Day-Failure to Appear

7/14/2023 9:54 AM-Brian	Nicklas Palmer-Failure to Appear

7/14/2023 9:32 AM-Levi	William Platt-In Transit From-To Other Agency

7/14/2023 8:19 AM-Raquel	Angelique Rodriguez-Viol protection order; Abuse order

<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;7/14/2023 9:38 PM-Thomas	James Sallee-Poss of marijuana; 2 or more prior convictions; Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant7/14/2023 9:09 PM-Cody	Wayne Ruddick-Probation Violation7/14/2023 8:57 PM-Arthur	Anthony Allen-Criminal Damage to Property; Without consent; $1,000 to $24,999; Criminal Trespass; Posted or Locked Premises; Stalking; Conduct after receiving notice of protection order causing fear; 2nd conviction7/14/2023 8:52 PM-Sarah	Beth Mendoza-Failure to Appear7/14/2023 8:36 PM-Audra	Lynn Legron-Viol protection order; Abuse order7/14/2023 7:50 PM-Jason	David Fike-Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)7/14/2023 3:19 PM-Huntter	Lee Friesen-Failure to Appear7/14/2023 3:02 PM-Nicholas	Michael Henderson-Theft; Property or Services; $1,500 to $24,9997/14/2023 12:44 PM-David	Larry Mendoza-Failure to Appear; Probation Violation7/14/2023 12:15 PM-Dakota	Aaron Smith-Failure to Appear7/14/2023 11:31 AM-Heriberto Martinez Jr.-Probation Violation7/14/2023 11:09 AM-Kylee	Lynn Day-Failure to Appear7/14/2023 9:54 AM-Brian	Nicklas Palmer-Failure to Appear7/14/2023 9:32 AM-Levi	William Platt-In Transit From-To Other Agency7/14/2023 8:19 AM-Raquel	Angelique Rodriguez-Viol protection order; Abuse order

KYLE MCCASKEY Harvey County PIO

BURRTON, Kan. —Local, state and federal officials are investigating an illegal dumping and burning site east of Burrton.

Emergency personnel were dispatched to the 1900 block of South Sand Hill Road on Thursday morning on the report of a man injured by an outdoor fire. The man was taken to a local hospital, where he was treated and released for his injuries.

Emergency responders discovered an illegal dump site at the location, where the man is alleged to have been burning off materials for disposal.

A preliminary investigation identified the materials as a combination of substances used in paints, paint thinners and nail polish removers.

At this time, there are no known community impacts.

The quantity of materials at the site has not been determined. The incident remains under investigation. The Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency will determine any additional actions related to the site.

Burrton Fire/EMS, Burrton Police Department, Newton Fire/EMS, Sedgwick County Fire Department, Harvey County Sheriff’s Office and Harvey County Emergency Management also assisted in the response.

<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/2023/7/1689371334436.jpeg" alt="Dump site Sand Hill Road-Photo Courtesy Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Dump site Sand Hill Road-Photo Courtesy Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>KYLE MCCASKEY Harvey County PIOBURRTON, Kan. —Local, state and federal officials are investigating an illegal dumping and burning site east of Burrton.Emergency personnel were dispatched to the 1900 block of South Sand Hill Road on Thursday morning on the report of a man injured by an outdoor fire. The man was taken to a local hospital, where he was treated and released for his injuries.Emergency responders discovered an illegal dump site at the location, where the man is alleged to have been burning off materials for disposal.A preliminary investigation identified the materials as a combination of substances used in paints, paint thinners and nail polish removers.At this time, there are no known community impacts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689371404315.jpeg" alt="Dump site Sand Hill Road 1-Photo Courtesy Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Dump site Sand Hill Road 1-Photo Courtesy Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>The quantity of materials at the site has not been determined. The incident remains under investigation. The Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency will determine any additional actions related to the site.Burrton Fire/EMS, Burrton Police Department, Newton Fire/EMS, Sedgwick County Fire Department, Harvey County Sheriff’s Office and Harvey County Emergency Management also assisted in the response.<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;

Officials looking into illegal dumping and burning near Burrton

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Department responded to 2704 North Madison for a structure fire at 2:05 p.m. Friday.

The residential home had a moderate amount of smoke coming from all vents to the attic when crews arrived. Crews performed an aggressive interior attack and limited the spread of fire to a small area in the attic. 

The occupants were not home at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire was the result of a tree limb that fell on a residential power line that damaged the weather head and electrical box igniting a fire in the attic.

Hutchinson Fire Department would like to thank RCEMS, HPD, Kansas Gas and Evergy for their assistance at Friday's scene.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580901788572.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Fire Logo" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Fire Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Fire Department responded to 2704 North Madison for a structure fire at 2:05 p.m. Friday.The residential home had a moderate amount of smoke coming from all vents to the attic when crews arrived. Crews performed an aggressive interior attack and limited the spread of fire to a small area in the attic. The occupants were not home at the time of the fire. No injuries were reported.The cause of the fire was the result of a tree limb that fell on a residential power line that damaged the weather head and electrical box igniting a fire in the attic.Hutchinson Fire Department would like to thank RCEMS, HPD, Kansas Gas and Evergy for their assistance at Friday's scene.<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;

Power line causes small Friday fire

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Melinda Merrill on&nbsp;Wilson's Czech Festival.

For more information about the 2023 Czech Fest, including a full calendar of events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://wilsonczechfest.com/">wilsonczechfest.com.</a>

-The original version of this identified Melinda Merrill as Director of the Czech Festival.&nbsp; The festival has wonderful volunteer committee that is co-chaired by Susan Kriley and Kate Schiermeyer. 

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1JfYJm30qLA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Melinda Merrill on&nbsp;Wilson's Czech Festival.For more information about the 2023 Czech Fest, including a full calendar of events, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://wilsonczechfest.com/">wilsonczechfest.com.</a>-The original version of this identified Melinda Merrill as Director of the Czech Festival.&nbsp; The festival has wonderful volunteer committee that is co-chaired by Susan Kriley and Kate Schiermeyer.

Correction: Forward Ever: Melinda Merrill on Wilson's Czech Fest 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas said Friday that prices at the pump still haven't had much movement in the past few weeks.

"We're at $3.25 a gallon statewide average today," Steward said. "That's really about the same as it's been for the past couple of months. There's been very little fluctuation here statewide. Pretty much the same story at the national level. The national price average is $3.56 a gallon, which is up three cents from last week.

Reno County's average price is one of the lowest in the state at $3.10 a gallon. Area prices are as follows:

"Here in Kansas, we're $1.17 less than we were a year ago, when we were at $4.42," Steward said. "We're currently 10th cheapest in the U.S., despite a pretty big cratering in gas demand in the days following the July 4th holiday. We were down almost a million barrels per day in terms of demand, but, countering that, oil prices have been up pretty significantly. They've moved from the upper 60s to the mid 70s per barrel. We're at about 76 or 77 dollars per barrel today."

More than half of the price of a gallon of gas at the pump, on average, is controlled by the underlying price of the crude oil from which it is refined, so that leaves some concern as those prices are rising.

"Although lower gas demand typically pushes pump prices lower, these rising oil prices that we're seeing now have kept prices stable and given them a little bit of an increase on the national. If those oil prices continue to rise, we could see higher prices at the pump."

Oil prices have increased this week due to rising market optimism that fewer interest rate hikes may be on the horizon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631897543449.jpeg" alt="CHS Refinery-McPherson-Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>CHS Refinery-McPherson-Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas said Friday that prices at the pump still haven't had much movement in the past few weeks."We're at $3.25 a gallon statewide average today," Steward said. "That's really about the same as it's been for the past couple of months. There's been very little fluctuation here statewide. Pretty much the same story at the national level. The national price average is $3.56 a gallon, which is up three cents from last week.Reno County's average price is one of the lowest in the state at $3.10 a gallon. Area prices are as follows:McPherson: $3.12Harvey: $3.15Sedgwick: $3.34Kingman: $3.20Pratt: $3.27Stafford: $3.26Rice: $3.23"Here in Kansas, we're $1.17 less than we were a year ago, when we were at $4.42," Steward said. "We're currently 10th cheapest in the U.S., despite a pretty big cratering in gas demand in the days following the July 4th holiday. We were down almost a million barrels per day in terms of demand, but, countering that, oil prices have been up pretty significantly. They've moved from the upper 60s to the mid 70s per barrel. We're at about 76 or 77 dollars per barrel today."More than half of the price of a gallon of gas at the pump, on average, is controlled by the underlying price of the crude oil from which it is refined, so that leaves some concern as those prices are rising."Although lower gas demand typically pushes pump prices lower, these rising oil prices that we're seeing now have kept prices stable and given them a little bit of an increase on the national. If those oil prices continue to rise, we could see higher prices at the pump."Oil prices have increased this week due to rising market optimism that fewer interest rate hikes may be on the horizon.<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;

AAA: Gas prices not moving much in Kansas yet

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will consider a resolution to make an early additional payment on the Sports Arena bonds at their meeting on Tuesday. According to agenda documents, in 2015 and 2016, the city issued $27,430,000 worth of bonds to pay for improvements to the sports arena.

The bonds are payable with collections of a special sales tax that was approved by voters. To date, the city has accumulated an excess of sales tax after making the scheduled bond payments.

The City is prepared to use this excess to pay off the sports arena portion of the 2015-B issuance and pay towards the 2016-A issuance. Council approval of the proposed resolution will authorize the payoff and allow the City to save over $125,000 in interest.

If sales tax collections stay at current levels, the remaining amount of the bonds may be paid off between July and September 2024. The sales tax will expire at that time.

The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583539185508.jpeg" alt="Hutchinson Sports Arena" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Sports Arena</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council will consider a resolution to make an early additional payment on the Sports Arena bonds at their meeting on Tuesday. According to agenda documents, in 2015 and 2016, the city issued $27,430,000 worth of bonds to pay for improvements to the sports arena.The bonds are payable with collections of a special sales tax that was approved by voters. To date, the city has accumulated an excess of sales tax after making the scheduled bond payments.The City is prepared to use this excess to pay off the sports arena portion of the 2015-B issuance and pay towards the 2016-A issuance. Council approval of the proposed resolution will authorize the payoff and allow the City to save over $125,000 in interest.If sales tax collections stay at current levels, the remaining amount of the bonds may be paid off between July and September 2024. The sales tax will expire at that time.The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.<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;

Sports Arena extra payment on agenda Tuesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A public open house is taking place Sunday afternoon for a new unit at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson.

"What we were kind of missing is the puzzle piece of helping those that are affected with Alzheimer's and dementia," said Hope Jordan with Wesley Towers. "We have expanded to a ten bed private area called Legacy. That is specifically for those that are suffering from Alzheimer's or any related dementia."

Wesley Towers has made an effort to increase staffing for that area specifically.

"We have specially trained staff, programming for them and everything to enhance their quality of life," Jordan said.&nbsp; "Our open house to commemorate is Sunday, July 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Legacy is located in the Hester Care Center at 3711 Asbury Place."

With only ten beds, the need is greater than the current capacity, but you can check into it.

"We are having a lot of interest," Jordan said. "We are filling very quickly. If you are thinking this might be an option for your family now, or maybe even in the future, it's never a bad time to kind of look into options and kind of gauge where you are at. The one thing that we like to tell families is, the sooner that you start looking into it, especially if you're seeing memory loss or issues like that, we can kind of create a new baseline."

It's not that there is any cure for dementia at this point, but having a care plan and routine is vital to increasing quality of life for everyone.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689342417316.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy Wesley Towers" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy Wesley Towers</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A public open house is taking place Sunday afternoon for a new unit at Wesley Towers in Hutchinson."What we were kind of missing is the puzzle piece of helping those that are affected with Alzheimer's and dementia," said Hope Jordan with Wesley Towers. "We have expanded to a ten bed private area called Legacy. That is specifically for those that are suffering from Alzheimer's or any related dementia."Wesley Towers has made an effort to increase staffing for that area specifically."We have specially trained staff, programming for them and everything to enhance their quality of life," Jordan said.&nbsp; "Our open house to commemorate is Sunday, July 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Legacy is located in the Hester Care Center at 3711 Asbury Place."With only ten beds, the need is greater than the current capacity, but you can check into it."We are having a lot of interest," Jordan said. "We are filling very quickly. If you are thinking this might be an option for your family now, or maybe even in the future, it's never a bad time to kind of look into options and kind of gauge where you are at. The one thing that we like to tell families is, the sooner that you start looking into it, especially if you're seeing memory loss or issues like that, we can kind of create a new baseline."It's not that there is any cure for dementia at this point, but having a care plan and routine is vital to increasing quality of life for everyone.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Open house for new Legacy unit Sunday at Wesley Towers

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Jon Austin, DVM with Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital is urging pet owners to make a plan for their pet if they are leaving on vacation, whether the pet is going with them or not.

"Sometimes, you know, it isn't appropriate to take the pet along," Austin said. "If that's the case, then you need to find somewhere that you can leave them safely or get someone who can come to your house and imitate you while you are gone. There are services that offer that for sale. There's a website called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rover.com/">https://www.rover.com/</a>&nbsp;that my girls recommend to people and they can find house sitters and pet sitters on that website."

If you are boarding your pet, make sure it's safe for them and for any other pets staying there.

"There are several people who have boarding kennels in the Hutchinson area," Austin said. "There's three really good ones that a lot of people use. They have requirements for the pets that come to stay there of vaccinations and worming and things and so, you have to have a little lead time, you can't just decide on Friday afternoon, hey, I'm going to board the pet right now. It's not the way it works. You've got to make sure everything's up to snuff and satisfy their requirements so your pet can go. Just think ahead."

Being around unfamiliar animals is a risk, especially if your pet's vaccinations are not current.

"Kennel cough is usually the thing that happens," Austin said. "Yeah, we always suggest that they update their vaccinations and make sure the pet is healthy just before they go to the kennel. That's why those kennels require those vaccinations, so everybody there is on equal terms and is healthy and nobody has a bad experience."

If kennel cough is untreated in some animals with weakened immune systems, it can progress to pneumonia.

<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/2022/12/1671537569918.jpg" alt="chihuahua, dog, blanket" />
 <figcaption>chihuahua, dog, blanket</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Jon Austin, DVM with Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital is urging pet owners to make a plan for their pet if they are leaving on vacation, whether the pet is going with them or not."Sometimes, you know, it isn't appropriate to take the pet along," Austin said. "If that's the case, then you need to find somewhere that you can leave them safely or get someone who can come to your house and imitate you while you are gone. There are services that offer that for sale. There's a website called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rover.com/">https://www.rover.com/</a>&nbsp;that my girls recommend to people and they can find house sitters and pet sitters on that website."If you are boarding your pet, make sure it's safe for them and for any other pets staying there."There are several people who have boarding kennels in the Hutchinson area," Austin said. "There's three really good ones that a lot of people use. They have requirements for the pets that come to stay there of vaccinations and worming and things and so, you have to have a little lead time, you can't just decide on Friday afternoon, hey, I'm going to board the pet right now. It's not the way it works. You've got to make sure everything's up to snuff and satisfy their requirements so your pet can go. Just think ahead."Being around unfamiliar animals is a risk, especially if your pet's vaccinations are not current."Kennel cough is usually the thing that happens," Austin said. "Yeah, we always suggest that they update their vaccinations and make sure the pet is healthy just before they go to the kennel. That's why those kennels require those vaccinations, so everybody there is on equal terms and is healthy and nobody has a bad experience."If kennel cough is untreated in some animals with weakened immune systems, it can progress to pneumonia.<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;

Veterinarian: Plan for your pet if boarding for vacation

Jacob White is a Hutchinson host teen for the 2023 Ulster Project.

Your family: Cole, Dustin and Kaitlyn White

Town and school you attend: Hutchinson, KS Hutchinson High School

What is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: Our history and culture.

What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project:

Good people doing good things that I wouldn't normally do in Hutch.

What is your favorite meal: Chicken sandwiches

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688473890054.jpeg" alt="Jacob White-2023 Hutch Ulster Project" />
 <figcaption>Jacob White-2023 Hutch Ulster Project</figcaption>
 </figure>Jacob White is a Hutchinson host teen for the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: Cole, Dustin and Kaitlyn WhiteTown and school you attend: Hutchinson, KS Hutchinson High SchoolWhat do you like to do: BandFavorite singer or group: Journey, QueenWhat is something your Northern Irish teen would not know about Hutchinson: Our history and culture.What are you looking forward to experiencing during the Project:Good people doing good things that I wouldn't normally do in Hutch.What is your favorite meal: Chicken sandwiches

Ulster Project Hutch: Jacob White

Noah Legge is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.

Town and school you attend: I am from Portadown and attend Armagh Tech.

What do you like to do: Soccer, golf, socialising

What is something people would not know about Portadown: They have their own American football team called the Craigavon Cowboys.

What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Looking forward to meeting new people and trying new food.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688473410323.jpeg" alt="Noah Legge-Hutch Ulster Project 2023" />
 <figcaption>Noah Legge-Hutch Ulster Project 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>Noah Legge is a Northern Irish teen on the 2023 Ulster Project.Your family: The Legge familyTown and school you attend: I am from Portadown and attend Armagh Tech.What do you like to do: Soccer, golf, socialisingFavorite singer or group: ColdplayWhat is something people would not know about Portadown: They have their own American football team called the Craigavon Cowboys.What are you looking forward to experience in Hutchinson: Looking forward to meeting new people and trying new food.What is your favorite meal: Pasta

Ulster Project Hutch: Noah Legge

NEWTON, Kan. — The City of Newton explained online this week what they plan to do with the 320 North Main old Dillons property that was originally purchased for a police station.

The City did originally purchase the property at 320 N. Main with the intention to build a new police station and municipal court facility. 

During the design process, however, the Newton City Commission determined the&nbsp;cost was too high to build the facility. They instead opted to partner with Harvey County to remodel the existing Law Enforcement Center to make better use of the space. That project was completed in 2020.

Soil at the Main Street site was found to be contaminated with diesel fuel from BNSF Railway. The plan now is for the old Dillons building to be demolished, the soil contamination to be cleaned up, and the property marketed for redevelopment. 

The City likely will issue a Request for Proposals from developers to purchase and develop the property to its highest and best use, commercial retail/dining/entertainment. Asbestos has been removed from the building, and it is ready for demolition. A waste management plan has been developed for testing and removal of any soil that comes out when the footings of the building are removed. 

Earlier this spring, BNSF staff verbally agreed to pay for the soil removal costs should they be contaminated. The City is waiting on an agreement for review to solidify their willingness to pay before demolition begins.&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/2023/7/1689327996403.jpeg" alt="City of Newton Logo" />
 <figcaption>City of Newton Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>NEWTON, Kan. — The City of Newton explained online this week what they plan to do with the 320 North Main old Dillons property that was originally purchased for a police station.The City did originally purchase the property at 320 N. Main with the intention to build a new police station and municipal court facility. During the design process, however, the Newton City Commission determined the&nbsp;cost was too high to build the facility. They instead opted to partner with Harvey County to remodel the existing Law Enforcement Center to make better use of the space. That project was completed in 2020.Soil at the Main Street site was found to be contaminated with diesel fuel from BNSF Railway. The plan now is for the old Dillons building to be demolished, the soil contamination to be cleaned up, and the property marketed for redevelopment. The City likely will issue a Request for Proposals from developers to purchase and develop the property to its highest and best use, commercial retail/dining/entertainment. Asbestos has been removed from the building, and it is ready for demolition. A waste management plan has been developed for testing and removal of any soil that comes out when the footings of the building are removed. Earlier this spring, BNSF staff verbally agreed to pay for the soil removal costs should they be contaminated. The City is waiting on an agreement for review to solidify their willingness to pay before demolition begins.&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;

Newton plans to tear down old Dillons, redevelop site

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Session Two of the Hutchinson Art Center Kids Summer Art Camp starts on Monday, July 17th. 

Additionally, the projects schedule for Session Two has been updated. 

The teacher, Cinde Smith, has made some changes based on which projects students liked and which worked best during the first session and she thinks everyone will enjoy these projects. 

For more information on Kids Art Summer Camp or to register, please go online to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp?fbclid=IwAR3s32PwfYvaMhiej6MS1tOAT7b77UnEre16yP_-duTR-Ga-EefOQu6OOoc" target="_blank">https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689327106554.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Session Two of the Hutchinson Art Center Kids Summer Art Camp starts on Monday, July 17th. Additionally, the projects schedule for Session Two has been updated. The teacher, Cinde Smith, has made some changes based on which projects students liked and which worked best during the first session and she thinks everyone will enjoy these projects. For more information on Kids Art Summer Camp or to register, please go online to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp?fbclid=IwAR3s32PwfYvaMhiej6MS1tOAT7b77UnEre16yP_-duTR-Ga-EefOQu6OOoc" target="_blank">https://www.hutchinsonartcenter.net/kids-summer-art-camp</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Kids Summer Art Camp starts Monday at Hutchinson Art Center

This is day 11 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.

Northwest Kansas has been struggling to get into a harvest rhythm. With high humidity and scattered showers, combines can’t begin rolling until mid-afternoon in most cases. Overall, harvest is getting started about 10 days to two weeks later than normal. Multiple thunderstorms have come through the area, bringing with them large hail and causing significant losses in wheat fields that are just teetering on being dry enough to harvest.

Lisa Schemm from Sharon Springs reports that their harvest started on July 4, about 10 days later than normal. They still have about six days of harvest left when fields dry out, but they’ve been struggling with high moisture and finding fields that are ready.&nbsp;

“This has been one of the latest harvests to get started,” Schemm said, noting it will be, by far, the latest to finish.

Yields have ranged from 30 bushels per acre on fields with hail damage to 55 bushels per acre on dryland to 87 bushels per acre on irrigated land. Test weights have held steady at 60 to 61 pounds, for now. Protein is 12 percent and better.

The Schemm family is fighting weeds and suckerheads, which have been continuing to stall their harvest. Their harvest crew is test cutting several fields but finding moisture is still too high. While annual rainfall averages 18 to 20 inches in their area, they have received all of that average rainfall since mid-May. However, when it comes as quickly as it has, the soils can’t absorb it and benefit as much as they would if it came a little at a time.

Schemm says they planted a little later than others in the area, which may be contributing to their late harvest, but mostly it is caused by the late suckerheads, which are now even taller than the rest of the field, and the high humidity in the area. Their custom harvest crew is strung out across Kansas, with some in Ulysses and others in Sharon Springs. But both crews are struggling to find wheat that’s dry enough to cut. They are scheduled to move on to Montana at the end of next week.

“Why would harvesters want to stay here and wait for it to dry out when there’s good wheat to cut in Montana?” Schemm asked. Even their best wheat has five-foot tall kochia to go along with it. Farmers are having a hard time getting the weeds under control.

In Dodge City, Mike Schmidt, operations manager for Pride Ag Resources, reports harvest started a week late on June 20, but the first big day of cutting was June 26. They received a rain on July 4 and ever since then, harvest has been slow to pick up the pace.&nbsp;

Proteins have been all over the board, reaching as low as 7 to 11 percent, and as high as 14 percent. Test weights started out strong, reaching as high as 63 to 64 pounds per bushel; however, as harvest progresses, the test weights have gone down and they are now seeing test weights around 59 to 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;

Back in April around Easter, the area received rain in the northern portion of their territory. This saved some fields and got the crop over the hump to potentially be harvested. The southern half was not as fortunate and missed those rain events.&nbsp;

Some farmers in the area have had to control weeds, which not only pushes off harvest, but is yet another costly input to apply to a very short crop.&nbsp;

Although they have not reached Schmidt’s projection yet, he anticipates seeing a third of the wheat they usually bring in. It is still early yet, however, since there are lots of acres left to be cut.&nbsp;

Wheat that comes into the Dodge City facility usually goes to the gulf for export, but not currently. Instead, this wheat will be loaded onto trains to either go to Wichita mills, terminals or off to California.&nbsp;

In North Central Kansas, Mike Jordan from Mitchell County reports that they finished up their harvest on July 4.

“We were some of the last to finish; everybody around us was done around the 4 and 5 of July,” he explained. Jordan says that about one-third of all the fields in his area were abandoned due to thin and weedy wheat. They did not see any hail damage on their crop.&nbsp;

Jordan reports that he was getting good proteins on his wheat, ranging from 13 to 16 percent. They sacrificed yields for this high protein; however, those being just about 12 bushels per acre. His whole farm average landed in the teens this year, unable to pull through the abnormal weather and the effects of these changing patterns.&nbsp;

All of Jordan’s fields are no-till, and he said that some in the area have had continuous wheat yielding in the 30’s, with some even breaking 40 bushels per acre.

“If you wanted to walk across the fields stepping on the wheat plants along the way, you would be doing a lot of jumping,” Jordan notes. In Jordan’s years of farming, he says that he hasn’t experienced a wheat crop this bad since 1989.

“We are really just living rain to rain at this point,” he laments. He continues to say that, although their wheat crop struggled, there is corn in the area that could turn out well. Jordan is quick to acknowledge that, despite this discouraging wheat crop, there is hope for this year for surrounding farmers.

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&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gCMxpSLsI3KM8StiA8-l9PZM_ugNNiUJaIss_NU1PoPPABF2r8xPoO7_Oa7vHDQztLM7D__UAOzeREBVKEfew9j2kJ34xLA4ZQXRO_toAlAV&amp;c=mB7Pyxt7UR6V_vqyBdlPPibbSckms_Rs4RQ1Gx2anQZJCO9kk8S4CA==&amp;ch=dqi1vYJoRPje-POOdsbzzToChliW1BY4dToY6i5a2-k60-sxvBVSjQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gAiN2xqCmdyzpMr0gVDXTVOiAcmej9_1G0G3XG942Ps4nXnrQ30CAQXY5KmZvRzyL5Gtesttc45h1Y9Hr8a-deEwOyXtAgEEEObc4Y8VJMay&amp;c=mB7Pyxt7UR6V_vqyBdlPPibbSckms_Rs4RQ1Gx2anQZJCO9kk8S4CA==&amp;ch=dqi1vYJoRPje-POOdsbzzToChliW1BY4dToY6i5a2-k60-sxvBVSjQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gADsKq_abayykAwss3G3qW5d10yE1GCaadcHFhAAijMULJBpq0x1h8l01zKAdxaugrLySHtT0-SZaxcFsm4_yKw1xkldnv17twxdQkirdDCa&amp;c=mB7Pyxt7UR6V_vqyBdlPPibbSckms_Rs4RQ1Gx2anQZJCO9kk8S4CA==&amp;ch=dqi1vYJoRPje-POOdsbzzToChliW1BY4dToY6i5a2-k60-sxvBVSjQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689325427637.png" alt="Harvest Report Day 11" />
 <figcaption>Harvest Report Day 11</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas WheatThis is day 11 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.Northwest Kansas has been struggling to get into a harvest rhythm. With high humidity and scattered showers, combines can’t begin rolling until mid-afternoon in most cases. Overall, harvest is getting started about 10 days to two weeks later than normal. Multiple thunderstorms have come through the area, bringing with them large hail and causing significant losses in wheat fields that are just teetering on being dry enough to harvest.Lisa Schemm from Sharon Springs reports that their harvest started on July 4, about 10 days later than normal. They still have about six days of harvest left when fields dry out, but they’ve been struggling with high moisture and finding fields that are ready.&nbsp;“This has been one of the latest harvests to get started,” Schemm said, noting it will be, by far, the latest to finish.Yields have ranged from 30 bushels per acre on fields with hail damage to 55 bushels per acre on dryland to 87 bushels per acre on irrigated land. Test weights have held steady at 60 to 61 pounds, for now. Protein is 12 percent and better.The Schemm family is fighting weeds and suckerheads, which have been continuing to stall their harvest. Their harvest crew is test cutting several fields but finding moisture is still too high. While annual rainfall averages 18 to 20 inches in their area, they have received all of that average rainfall since mid-May. However, when it comes as quickly as it has, the soils can’t absorb it and benefit as much as they would if it came a little at a time.Schemm says they planted a little later than others in the area, which may be contributing to their late harvest, but mostly it is caused by the late suckerheads, which are now even taller than the rest of the field, and the high humidity in the area. Their custom harvest crew is strung out across Kansas, with some in Ulysses and others in Sharon Springs. But both crews are struggling to find wheat that’s dry enough to cut. They are scheduled to move on to Montana at the end of next week.“Why would harvesters want to stay here and wait for it to dry out when there’s good wheat to cut in Montana?” Schemm asked. Even their best wheat has five-foot tall kochia to go along with it. Farmers are having a hard time getting the weeds under control.In Dodge City, Mike Schmidt, operations manager for Pride Ag Resources, reports harvest started a week late on June 20, but the first big day of cutting was June 26. They received a rain on July 4 and ever since then, harvest has been slow to pick up the pace.&nbsp;Proteins have been all over the board, reaching as low as 7 to 11 percent, and as high as 14 percent. Test weights started out strong, reaching as high as 63 to 64 pounds per bushel; however, as harvest progresses, the test weights have gone down and they are now seeing test weights around 59 to 60 pounds per bushel.&nbsp;Back in April around Easter, the area received rain in the northern portion of their territory. This saved some fields and got the crop over the hump to potentially be harvested. The southern half was not as fortunate and missed those rain events.&nbsp;Some farmers in the area have had to control weeds, which not only pushes off harvest, but is yet another costly input to apply to a very short crop.&nbsp;Although they have not reached Schmidt’s projection yet, he anticipates seeing a third of the wheat they usually bring in. It is still early yet, however, since there are lots of acres left to be cut.&nbsp;Wheat that comes into the Dodge City facility usually goes to the gulf for export, but not currently. Instead, this wheat will be loaded onto trains to either go to Wichita mills, terminals or off to California.&nbsp;In North Central Kansas, Mike Jordan from Mitchell County reports that they finished up their harvest on July 4.“We were some of the last to finish; everybody around us was done around the 4 and 5 of July,” he explained. Jordan says that about one-third of all the fields in his area were abandoned due to thin and weedy wheat. They did not see any hail damage on their crop.&nbsp;Jordan reports that he was getting good proteins on his wheat, ranging from 13 to 16 percent. They sacrificed yields for this high protein; however, those being just about 12 bushels per acre. His whole farm average landed in the teens this year, unable to pull through the abnormal weather and the effects of these changing patterns.&nbsp;All of Jordan’s fields are no-till, and he said that some in the area have had continuous wheat yielding in the 30’s, with some even breaking 40 bushels per acre.“If you wanted to walk across the fields stepping on the wheat plants along the way, you would be doing a lot of jumping,” Jordan notes. In Jordan’s years of farming, he says that he hasn’t experienced a wheat crop this bad since 1989.“We are really just living rain to rain at this point,” he laments. He continues to say that, although their wheat crop struggled, there is corn in the area that could turn out well. Jordan is quick to acknowledge that, despite this discouraging wheat crop, there is hope for this year for surrounding farmers.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&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gCMxpSLsI3KM8StiA8-l9PZM_ugNNiUJaIss_NU1PoPPABF2r8xPoO7_Oa7vHDQztLM7D__UAOzeREBVKEfew9j2kJ34xLA4ZQXRO_toAlAV&amp;c=mB7Pyxt7UR6V_vqyBdlPPibbSckms_Rs4RQ1Gx2anQZJCO9kk8S4CA==&amp;ch=dqi1vYJoRPje-POOdsbzzToChliW1BY4dToY6i5a2-k60-sxvBVSjQ==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gAiN2xqCmdyzpMr0gVDXTVOiAcmej9_1G0G3XG942Ps4nXnrQ30CAQXY5KmZvRzyL5Gtesttc45h1Y9Hr8a-deEwOyXtAgEEEObc4Y8VJMay&amp;c=mB7Pyxt7UR6V_vqyBdlPPibbSckms_Rs4RQ1Gx2anQZJCO9kk8S4CA==&amp;ch=dqi1vYJoRPje-POOdsbzzToChliW1BY4dToY6i5a2-k60-sxvBVSjQ==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001tWbdFVo7xwMQkKtT6aWcV_x7VQUjoYmp13_Ynsq9AcuBArMrRkz-gADsKq_abayykAwss3G3qW5d10yE1GCaadcHFhAAijMULJBpq0x1h8l01zKAdxaugrLySHtT0-SZaxcFsm4_yKw1xkldnv17twxdQkirdDCa&amp;c=mB7Pyxt7UR6V_vqyBdlPPibbSckms_Rs4RQ1Gx2anQZJCO9kk8S4CA==&amp;ch=dqi1vYJoRPje-POOdsbzzToChliW1BY4dToY6i5a2-k60-sxvBVSjQ==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;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;

Day 11, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

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;

7/14/2023 3:17 AM-David	William Carter Jr.-Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)

7/13/2023 8:55 PM-Caitlynne	Renea Perry-Failure to Appear&nbsp;

7/13/2023 8:26 PM-Trae	Donavan Reed-Failure to Appear

7/13/2023 7:41 PM-Morgan	Glen Walkup-Probation Violation

7/13/2023 6:03 PM-Ashlee	Lakole Moresco-Failure to Appear

7/13/2023 4:34 PM-Tabitha	Mae Wheeler-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

7/13/2023 3:48 PM-Blake	Steven Roberts-DWS; 1st conviction

7/13/2023 3:25 PM-Angela	Marie Kelsey-Failure to Appear

7/13/2023 2:44 PM-Noah	John Roper-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance

7/13/2023 1:14 PM-Stephanie	Esther Young-Abuse of a child; Inhuman corp punishment &lt;18

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681919634177.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;——————————————&nbsp; &nbsp;7/14/2023 3:17 AM-David	William Carter Jr.-Domestic Battery; Knowing or Reckless Bodily Harm (1st conviction)7/13/2023 8:55 PM-Caitlynne	Renea Perry-Failure to Appear&nbsp;7/13/2023 8:26 PM-Trae	Donavan Reed-Failure to Appear7/13/2023 7:41 PM-Morgan	Glen Walkup-Probation Violation7/13/2023 6:03 PM-Ashlee	Lakole Moresco-Failure to Appear7/13/2023 4:34 PM-Tabitha	Mae Wheeler-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body7/13/2023 3:48 PM-Blake	Steven Roberts-DWS; 1st conviction7/13/2023 3:25 PM-Angela	Marie Kelsey-Failure to Appear7/13/2023 2:44 PM-Noah	John Roper-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Fail to Show Proof of Liability Insurance7/13/2023 1:14 PM-Stephanie	Esther Young-Abuse of a child; Inhuman corp punishment &lt;18

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Union Pacific will be repairing a section of the railroad crossing between Ave C and Ave D on South Monroe Street. Work will start July 18th, 2023, and is scheduled to be done on Saturday, July 22nd, 2023.

Monroe Street will be closed to all through-traffic between Ave C and Ave D while repairs are being made.

For more information call Road Safe at 316-778-2112.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689365096360.jpeg" alt="RR Crossing Monroe at Ave D" />
 <figcaption>RR Crossing Monroe at Ave D</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Union Pacific will be repairing a section of the railroad crossing between Ave C and Ave D on South Monroe Street. Work will start July 18th, 2023, and is scheduled to be done on Saturday, July 22nd, 2023.Monroe Street will be closed to all through-traffic between Ave C and Ave D while repairs are being made.For more information call Road Safe at 316-778-2112.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app.</a> <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea">CLICK HERE&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.</a>

South Monroe closed next week for railroad repair

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Due to Cosmosphere Camp being at capacity this summer, there are no rooms available to hold the July 20th Coffee at the Cosmo. 

Unfortunately, that leaves Cosmosphere no choice but to cancel.

Be sure to mark down September 21 for the next Coffee at the Cosmo, where the subject will be, ironically enough, Cosmosphere Camps.&nbsp;

For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://cosmo.org/">https://cosmo.org/</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; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689264879119.jpeg" alt="Coffee at the Cosmo Canceled" />
 <figcaption>Coffee at the Cosmo Canceled</figcaption>
 </figure>CosmosphereHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Due to Cosmosphere Camp being at capacity this summer, there are no rooms available to hold the July 20th Coffee at the Cosmo. Unfortunately, that leaves Cosmosphere no choice but to cancel.Be sure to mark down September 21 for the next Coffee at the Cosmo, where the subject will be, ironically enough, Cosmosphere Camps.&nbsp;For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://cosmo.org/">https://cosmo.org/</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; &nbsp;

No Coffee at the Cosmo in July

TOPEKA – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $4.1 million in Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits has been awarded to 36 nonprofit organizations across the state to boost fundraising efforts focused on improving local access to quality child care, health care, education, arts, and housing.

Locally, in Buhler, Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community is creating a Homes Plus Memory Care Center designated specifically for residents in early onset stages of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.&nbsp; The state awarded $116,000 in credits.

Regionally, in North Newton, Bethel College received credits for a&nbsp;student and community wellness facility with a gymnasium, weightlifting space, two lane walking track, large open lobby for social events, climbing wall and more. The state awarded $116,000 in credits.

Also, in Pratt, the Pratt Daycare Project will provide daycare space for up to 110 children from infant through preschool age (up to 5). To accomplish this project, the Pratt Childcare Foundation has been incorporated and tasked with the process of renovating an approximately 21,000 square foot facility over two phases. The state awarded&nbsp;$200,000 in credits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689264279835.jpeg" alt="Community Service Tax Credit Program" />
 <figcaption>Community Service Tax Credit Program</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of the GovernorTOPEKA – Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced today that $4.1 million in Community Service Program (CSP) Tax Credits has been awarded to 36 nonprofit organizations across the state to boost fundraising efforts focused on improving local access to quality child care, health care, education, arts, and housing.Locally, in Buhler, Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community is creating a Homes Plus Memory Care Center designated specifically for residents in early onset stages of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.&nbsp; The state awarded $116,000 in credits.Regionally, in North Newton, Bethel College received credits for a&nbsp;student and community wellness facility with a gymnasium, weightlifting space, two lane walking track, large open lobby for social events, climbing wall and more. The state awarded $116,000 in credits.Also, in Pratt, the Pratt Daycare Project will provide daycare space for up to 110 children from infant through preschool age (up to 5). To accomplish this project, the Pratt Childcare Foundation has been incorporated and tasked with the process of renovating an approximately 21,000 square foot facility over two phases. The state awarded&nbsp;$200,000 in credits.CSP tax credits have been issued in the Sunflower State since 1994. The program provides a 70% tax credit to qualified donors in rural communities (populations less than 15,000) and a 50% tax credit in larger communities. The credits are a direct deduction from the donor’s state tax obligation.<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;