Brianne Heidbreder-Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University

As one of only 13 states that does not legally allow the medical use of cannabis, Kansas will likely continue to face growing calls to rethink its approach.

In her 2023 State of the State Address, Governor Laura Kelly urged the Kansas Legislature to legalize the medical use of cannabis.

Using the personal stories of two Kansans, Kelly argued that this move could reduce suffering for those with chronic pain, seizure disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

This call to action, however, faces uncertainty in the legislature.

A bipartisan group of Kansas Senators, including seven Democrats and one Republican, introduced Senate Bill No. 171, also known as the Veterans First Medical Cannabis Act.

This Act calls for the “regulation of the cultivation, distribution, sale and use of medical cannabis.” If enacted, the bill would prioritize eligibility of those individuals currently serving in the military, as well as those separated from military service by honorable discharge during the first 60 days.

Similar to other state’s legislation, the bill also calls for the implementation of an excise tax on the cultivation and sale of cannabis.

Last week, the Kansas Committee on Federal and State Affairs held hearings on legislation (Senate Bill No. 135) that would legalize medical marijuana distribution, use, and regulation for patients diagnosed with one of 21 different health conditions.

The House Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee also heard testimony related to state marijuana policy.

During the hearings, opponents criticized the use of veterans as the face of medical cannabis and warned of criminal activity that may result from legalization.

They also argued it was a slippery slope to full legalization for recreational use.

Proponents, on the other hand, argued it was time for Kansas to move on this issue.

The federal nature of the U.S. system has created a complicated patchwork of state policies with regard to controlled substances, such as marijuana.

Marijuana and marijuana products are illegal under federal law, but this has not stopped states from adopting their own approaches.

In recent years, many states have liberalized their laws on the regulation of marijuana sale and use.

Currently, 37 states and the District of Columbia allow the use of cannabis for medically qualified individuals, leaving Kansas in the minority.

States that allow the sale and use of marijuana collect tax revenue that goes to a variety of sources from education funds to public safety and corrections departments.

In addition, public support for legalizing marijuana for medicinal and recreational use has increased in recent years. An October 2022 Pew Research survey indicates that 89% of Americans think marijuana should be legal for medical use.

Kansas may feel pressure from growing public support to legalize marijuana for medicinal and recreational use, as well as from neighboring states changing their policies.

This year, Missouri legalized recreational sale and use of cannabis and estimates suggest individuals spent nearly $13 million on cannabis products during the first weekend of sales alone.

Kansas border cities could face unique challenges as dispensaries open up on the other side of the Kansas-Missouri line.

Conversely, Oklahoma voters, who previously approved of a medical marijuana system in 2018, voted against the legalizations of recreational use on Tuesday, March 7.

With the politics of marijuana continually changing, the question remains, what will Kansas do on medical cannabis?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678373379169.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder" />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder</figcaption>
 </figure>Brianne Heidbreder-Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State UniversityAs one of only 13 states that does not legally allow the medical use of cannabis, Kansas will likely continue to face growing calls to rethink its approach.In her 2023 State of the State Address, Governor Laura Kelly urged the Kansas Legislature to legalize the medical use of cannabis.Using the personal stories of two Kansans, Kelly argued that this move could reduce suffering for those with chronic pain, seizure disorders, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).This call to action, however, faces uncertainty in the legislature.A bipartisan group of Kansas Senators, including seven Democrats and one Republican, introduced Senate Bill No. 171, also known as the Veterans First Medical Cannabis Act.This Act calls for the “regulation of the cultivation, distribution, sale and use of medical cannabis.” If enacted, the bill would prioritize eligibility of those individuals currently serving in the military, as well as those separated from military service by honorable discharge during the first 60 days.Similar to other state’s legislation, the bill also calls for the implementation of an excise tax on the cultivation and sale of cannabis.Last week, the Kansas Committee on Federal and State Affairs held hearings on legislation (Senate Bill No. 135) that would legalize medical marijuana distribution, use, and regulation for patients diagnosed with one of 21 different health conditions.The House Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee also heard testimony related to state marijuana policy.During the hearings, opponents criticized the use of veterans as the face of medical cannabis and warned of criminal activity that may result from legalization.They also argued it was a slippery slope to full legalization for recreational use.Proponents, on the other hand, argued it was time for Kansas to move on this issue.The federal nature of the U.S. system has created a complicated patchwork of state policies with regard to controlled substances, such as marijuana.Marijuana and marijuana products are illegal under federal law, but this has not stopped states from adopting their own approaches.In recent years, many states have liberalized their laws on the regulation of marijuana sale and use.Currently, 37 states and the District of Columbia allow the use of cannabis for medically qualified individuals, leaving Kansas in the minority.States that allow the sale and use of marijuana collect tax revenue that goes to a variety of sources from education funds to public safety and corrections departments.In addition, public support for legalizing marijuana for medicinal and recreational use has increased in recent years. An October 2022 Pew Research survey indicates that 89% of Americans think marijuana should be legal for medical use.Kansas may feel pressure from growing public support to legalize marijuana for medicinal and recreational use, as well as from neighboring states changing their policies.This year, Missouri legalized recreational sale and use of cannabis and estimates suggest individuals spent nearly $13 million on cannabis products during the first weekend of sales alone.Kansas border cities could face unique challenges as dispensaries open up on the other side of the Kansas-Missouri line.Conversely, Oklahoma voters, who previously approved of a medical marijuana system in 2018, voted against the legalizations of recreational use on Tuesday, March 7.With the politics of marijuana continually changing, the question remains, what will Kansas do on medical cannabis?

Insight Kansas: Kansas an outlier on Medical Cannabis

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;

3/12/2023 4:06 AM-Bobbie	Sue Raybern-Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Misd. case

3/12/2023 12:09 AM-Jennifer	Rose Richey-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

3/11/2023 11:24 PM-Earl	Dean Nisly III-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Deprivation of Property; Other than Motor Vehicle or Firearm; Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Criminal Restraint

3/11/2023 2:54 PM-Dashawn	Nicole Culver-Failure to Appear

3/11/2023 10:03 AM-Tampiria	Vyette	Wade-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana

3/11/2023 10:01 AM-Katherine	Louise	Thurston-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Knowingly drive uninsured vehicle; Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate

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;3/12/2023 4:06 AM-Bobbie	Sue Raybern-Interference with Law Enforcement; Conceal /alter/destroy evidence Misd. case3/12/2023 12:09 AM-Jennifer	Rose Richey-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv3/11/2023 11:24 PM-Earl	Dean Nisly III-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct; Domestic Battery; Knowingly Cause Physical Contact (1st conviction); Criminal Deprivation of Property; Other than Motor Vehicle or Firearm; Criminal Threat; with Intent to Terrorize or cause Evacuation; Criminal Restraint3/11/2023 2:54 PM-Dashawn	Nicole Culver-Failure to Appear3/11/2023 10:03 AM-Tampiria	Vyette	Wade-Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant; Poss of marijuana3/11/2023 10:01 AM-Katherine	Louise	Thurston-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv; Insurance; Knowingly drive uninsured vehicle; Registration Violation; Display or Possess a False, Cancelled, Suspended or Revoked Title, Plate, Decal, Placard; Registration Violation; No/Expired License Plate

Daily Bookings

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — The National Weather Service (NWS) held their annual Storm Fury on the Plains presentation at Newton High School in Harvey County on March 9. &nbsp;

The presentation offered information that will help prepare storm spotters and weather enthusiasts for the upcoming storm season by teaching Harvey County residents about the different types of storms, the features that help a storm spotter to recognize the potential severity of a storm, how to report a storm to the National Weather Service office in Wichita and general severe weather safety tips.

Andy Kleinsasser, an NWS Meteorologist, presided over the presentation. &nbsp;

"Kansas is in the bullseye of severe weather, " Kleinsasser said. 

The state ranks number one in total number of severe weather reports per year per square mile, and has since 1990.

“Severe weather density and severe weather frequency, we see the most of it so we have to be more ready than most, we have to be more weather savvy than most,” Kleinsasser said.  &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kleinsasser said the busiest part of the year for severe weather tends to run through March, April, May, and June, and then drop off in August. &nbsp;

There are four types of thunderstorms.&nbsp;

He briefly went over the first and least severe, the single cell storm. &nbsp;

“Overall, this is a fairly low threat type of thunderstorm,” Kleinsasser said. “Usually fairly disorganized, these are the kind of thunderstorms if you've ever visited or lived down in the southeastern part of the U.S., it’s hot and humid in the summer. Every afternoon you get these ‘popcorn storms’&nbsp;popping up in the heat of the day and after about 30 to 45 minutes maybe an hour at the most, they come back down.”&nbsp;

Single cell storms usually produce extremely heavy rain because they are slow moving and disorganized.&nbsp;They are capable of producing small hail and when they collapse, locally strong downburst winds. &nbsp;

The biggest threat of single cell storms is locally heavy rain. &nbsp;

The second least severe storms are multicluster storms. &nbsp;

Kleinsasser did not spend much time on these storms, with their biggest threat being fairly heavy rain and flooding. &nbsp;

Kleinsasser moved into squall line storms next. The other most severe thunderstorms are squall lines. Squall lines take on the appearance of long, sweeping walls of clouds. &nbsp;

“They stretch from horizon to horizon,” Kleinsasser said. “I’ve seen them stretch from Minnesota all the way down to Texas.” 

Squall lines present their main threat with strong straight-line damaging winds, especially when they start bowing out, which is called a bow echo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Squall lines can produce small hail, and can produce isolated tornadoes. &nbsp;

Research on squall line tornadoes in the last several years show they&nbsp;usually not occur unless it's a very strong bow echo right along the leading edge.&nbsp;

The final storm type Kleinsasser talked about were supercell storms, the these can generally produce the most severe thunderstorms. &nbsp;

A supercell is capable of producing a tornado, but most do not. Kleinsasser likened their appearance to an “alien mothership.” 

“This is kind of the mother of all thunderstorms,” Kleinsasser said. “What makes this storm so special, is the updraft that feeds that storms rotation.” &nbsp;

Kleinsasser said supercells are capable of causing all kinds of high-end extreme weather. &nbsp;

“If you’re going to get a Greensburg kind of tornado or a Joplin kind of tornado or a Andover kind of tornado, it’s going to come from a supercell.” &nbsp;

Storm spotters are advised to watch wall clouds when it comes to supercells. Wall clouds tend to take the form of an anvil or a head of cauliflower. Wall clouds should be watched for rotation, which can mean a tornado may form. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It can be hard to spot a possible tornado when trying to pick one up by watching a storm on radar. &nbsp;

However, in supercells at times, the highlight of the storm will form&nbsp;a “hook echo.” A hook echo is&nbsp;a hook-shaped rotation on a supercell radar image, signifying a chance a tornado could form.&nbsp;

The hook echo can also look like a letter “v.”&nbsp;

Kleinsasser said the National Weather Service is always ready for reports on variety and sizes of&nbsp;hail,&nbsp;winds upwards of 50 miles per hour, wind damage, flooding, and cloud rotation. &nbsp;

Storm spotters can report severe weather by tagging the National Weather Service in photos or videos on social media. The NWS can also be reached at their 24-hour line, (800) 367-5736. &nbsp;

There are many ways to spot severe weather, but it can still be dangerous to do. &nbsp;

Inexperienced spotters are advised not to go out storm chasing, but to report what they see from a safe area, such as their home.&nbsp;

Staying out of a storm’s way, and reducing the&nbsp;risk of harm by not chasing a storm, but rather recording observations from a safe distance, is a generally good idea.  &nbsp;

Should things get “choppy” and start to look bad, having a planned escape route, for those who choose to follow storms in their vehicle, is also advised. &nbsp;

When spotting, one should make sure they can see the storm unobscured. &nbsp;

Spotters can also reach out online at&nbsp;<a href="http://insw.ncep.noaa.gov/report" target="_blank">insw.ncep.noaa.gov/report</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://spotternetwork.org/" target="_blank">spotternetwork.org</a>&nbsp;or by using the MPing mobile app. &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/2020/6/1592752482558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JUDD WEIL Hutch PostHARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — The National Weather Service (NWS) held their annual Storm Fury on the Plains presentation at Newton High School in Harvey County on March 9. &nbsp;The presentation offered information that will help prepare storm spotters and weather enthusiasts for the upcoming storm season by teaching Harvey County residents about the different types of storms, the features that help a storm spotter to recognize the potential severity of a storm, how to report a storm to the National Weather Service office in Wichita and general severe weather safety tips.Andy Kleinsasser, an NWS Meteorologist, presided over the presentation. &nbsp;"Kansas is in the bullseye of severe weather, " Kleinsasser said. The state ranks number one in total number of severe weather reports per year per square mile, and has since 1990.“Severe weather density and severe weather frequency, we see the most of it so we have to be more ready than most, we have to be more weather savvy than most,” Kleinsasser said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Kleinsasser said the busiest part of the year for severe weather tends to run through March, April, May, and June, and then drop off in August. &nbsp;There are four types of thunderstorms.&nbsp;He briefly went over the first and least severe, the single cell storm. &nbsp;“Overall, this is a fairly low threat type of thunderstorm,” Kleinsasser said. “Usually fairly disorganized, these are the kind of thunderstorms if you've ever visited or lived down in the southeastern part of the U.S., it’s hot and humid in the summer. Every afternoon you get these ‘popcorn storms’&nbsp;popping up in the heat of the day and after about 30 to 45 minutes maybe an hour at the most, they come back down.”&nbsp;Single cell storms usually produce extremely heavy rain because they are slow moving and disorganized.&nbsp;They are capable of producing small hail and when they collapse, locally strong downburst winds. &nbsp;The biggest threat of single cell storms is locally heavy rain. &nbsp;The second least severe storms are multicluster storms. &nbsp;Kleinsasser did not spend much time on these storms, with their biggest threat being fairly heavy rain and flooding. &nbsp;Kleinsasser moved into squall line storms next. The other most severe thunderstorms are squall lines. Squall lines take on the appearance of long, sweeping walls of clouds. &nbsp;“They stretch from horizon to horizon,” Kleinsasser said. “I’ve seen them stretch from Minnesota all the way down to Texas.” Squall lines present their main threat with strong straight-line damaging winds, especially when they start bowing out, which is called a bow echo.&nbsp;&nbsp;Squall lines can produce small hail, and can produce isolated tornadoes. &nbsp;Research on squall line tornadoes in the last several years show they&nbsp;usually not occur unless it's a very strong bow echo right along the leading edge.&nbsp;The final storm type Kleinsasser talked about were supercell storms, the these can generally produce the most severe thunderstorms. &nbsp;A supercell is capable of producing a tornado, but most do not. Kleinsasser likened their appearance to an “alien mothership.” “This is kind of the mother of all thunderstorms,” Kleinsasser said. “What makes this storm so special, is the updraft that feeds that storms rotation.” &nbsp;Kleinsasser said supercells are capable of causing all kinds of high-end extreme weather. &nbsp;“If you’re going to get a Greensburg kind of tornado or a Joplin kind of tornado or a Andover kind of tornado, it’s going to come from a supercell.” &nbsp;Storm spotters are advised to watch wall clouds when it comes to supercells. Wall clouds tend to take the form of an anvil or a head of cauliflower. Wall clouds should be watched for rotation, which can mean a tornado may form. &nbsp;&nbsp;It can be hard to spot a possible tornado when trying to pick one up by watching a storm on radar. &nbsp;However, in supercells at times, the highlight of the storm will form&nbsp;a “hook echo.” A hook echo is&nbsp;a hook-shaped rotation on a supercell radar image, signifying a chance a tornado could form.&nbsp;The hook echo can also look like a letter “v.”&nbsp;Kleinsasser said the National Weather Service is always ready for reports on variety and sizes of&nbsp;hail,&nbsp;winds upwards of 50 miles per hour, wind damage, flooding, and cloud rotation. &nbsp;Storm spotters can report severe weather by tagging the National Weather Service in photos or videos on social media. The NWS can also be reached at their 24-hour line, (800) 367-5736. &nbsp;There are many ways to spot severe weather, but it can still be dangerous to do. &nbsp;Inexperienced spotters are advised not to go out storm chasing, but to report what they see from a safe area, such as their home.&nbsp;Staying out of a storm’s way, and reducing the&nbsp;risk of harm by not chasing a storm, but rather recording observations from a safe distance, is a generally good idea. &nbsp;Should things get “choppy” and start to look bad, having a planned escape route, for those who choose to follow storms in their vehicle, is also advised. &nbsp;When spotting, one should make sure they can see the storm unobscured. &nbsp;Spotters can also reach out online at&nbsp;<a href="http://insw.ncep.noaa.gov/report" target="_blank">insw.ncep.noaa.gov/report</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://spotternetwork.org/" target="_blank">spotternetwork.org</a>&nbsp;or by using the MPing mobile app. &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;

Spotter meeting held in Harvey County is refresher

By JUDD WEIL&nbsp; Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Legend of Hutchinson, in conjunction with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 9, commemorating the facilities $5 million remodel.&nbsp;

The remodel was a massive 10,000-square-foot expansion, meant to improve the quality of life for Legend residents in many ways such as meals, lifestyle, entertainment, and overall personal involvement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The age of the building, according to Chris Mahen, COO of Legend Senior Living, was a major factor in the choice to remodel Legend of Hutchinson. &nbsp;

“It's just an older building that needed some resources to upgrade it and make it look attractive,” Mahen said. “It needed to be upgraded to what current times are honestly, I mean, it just needed to be. When we took over, the decision was made at that time that we were going to invest the money into the property in order to bring it up to the standards of what we would build right now if we were to.”&nbsp;

The new additions include a country kitchen, a therapy kitchen,&nbsp;courtyards, a movie theater, gathering spaces,&nbsp;and an expanded dining room. &nbsp;

The interior of the building including floor and ceiling received work. It was also painted and finished. Exterior&nbsp;improvements were made to the windows and siding. &nbsp;

Every aspect of the remodel is meant to emphasize a greater freedom when living in an assisted-living community, even in the corridors for example. &nbsp;

“One of the best features about Legend is they really believe in the wide hallways and why that is, is because we want whether it's a family or a couple to be able to walk side-by-side,” Tiffany Kengari,&nbsp;Regional Sales Director and sitting administrator with Legend of Hutchinson, said.&nbsp;

Legend hosts 118 apartments that are&nbsp;divided into assisted living, independent living, and memory care for those with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;

Legend moved more of their&nbsp;apartments to assisted living and equipped their&nbsp;memory care unit with a larger activity space. &nbsp;

“We have a studio and then we have a studio deluxe, which is just larger in space, and then we have what's known as an alcove deluxe,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “The alcove deluxe would be considered more what people are thinking of a standard one bedroom.” &nbsp;

The therapy kitchen was converted from the former country kitchen. Residents are able to go in and maintain their cooking skills.&nbsp; A new country kitchen was created with the expansion. The dining room has been expanded and now features a private dining room where families can have a little bit more intimate meal if they would like.&nbsp;

Legend of Hutchinson also features another full kitchen. &nbsp;

They also have raised flower beds throughout the place for&nbsp;residents that like to grow&nbsp;vegetables that are then used in the kitchen.&nbsp;

Additionally, there are life enrichment areas and an exercise room for activities. &nbsp;

The memory care unit, or as Legend calls it, reflections,&nbsp;saw a complete remodel. &nbsp;

“The memory care unit, we redid the whole thing,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “The dining room is new, we added a large life enrichment room for them, and then we added on to their patio and their courtyard out there, and then we are starting to redo the rooms back there.”&nbsp;

“The thing about Legend, is you should never be able to tell the difference from assisted living to memory care. When you go, everything's the same,” Kengari&nbsp;added. “We set tables the same as it is in assisted living. Every program that's here [in assisted living], is back there, because what we have found throughout the years is normally memory care units are afterthoughts.” &nbsp;

In many communities, memory care units are very isolated from the rest of the long-term care facility, and often never looks the same as the assisted-living units. &nbsp;

“It looks more kind of forgotten,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “Once you enter a&nbsp;Legend community you should never be able to tell the difference between assisted living and what we call reflections.” &nbsp;

Kengari said Legend Senior Living is known for their memory care and they work a lot with neuroplasticity to find new pathways to help people in reflections to continue to perform daily tasks. &nbsp;

“We do a lot of our own training. All of our CNAs and CMAs that work in our reflections are certified dementia practitioners (CDP). We do put them through that extra training,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “We do use the best friends approach, and so they have to go through and learn the whole curriculum of what the best friends approach is.”&nbsp;

Recently, the whole staff at every level throughout Legend Senior Living’s&nbsp;46 properties went through nine weeks of dementia training. &nbsp;

Legend of Hutchinson also works closely with veteran organizations, such as American Legion, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Honor Flight. &nbsp;

A big part of Legend’s&nbsp;setup is motivation, as at&nbsp;every corner there seems to be&nbsp;something for residents to continue their quality of living.&nbsp;

“Our philosophy at Legend is that ‘idle minds idle hands,’” Kengari&nbsp;said. “Our whole purpose of what we do and why our design is, is to continue to keep you active and wanting to continue to learn and do things.”&nbsp;

Legend Senior Living operates out of Wichita and has senior living communities in six states, including Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania.&nbsp;

On March 12 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Legend of Hutchinson will be having an open house to show off the remodel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Legend of Hutchinson is located at 2416 Brentwood. To RSVP to the open house call (620) 314-4707.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678521490495.jpeg" alt="Legend of Hutchinson staff are joined by members of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. [PHOTO: Judd Weil]" />
 <figcaption>Legend of Hutchinson staff are joined by members of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce. [PHOTO: Judd Weil]</figcaption>
 </figure>By JUDD WEIL&nbsp; Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Legend of Hutchinson, in conjunction with the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on March 9, commemorating the facilities $5 million remodel.&nbsp;The remodel was a massive 10,000-square-foot expansion, meant to improve the quality of life for Legend residents in many ways such as meals, lifestyle, entertainment, and overall personal involvement.&nbsp;&nbsp;The age of the building, according to Chris Mahen, COO of Legend Senior Living, was a major factor in the choice to remodel Legend of Hutchinson. &nbsp;“It's just an older building that needed some resources to upgrade it and make it look attractive,” Mahen said. “It needed to be upgraded to what current times are honestly, I mean, it just needed to be. When we took over, the decision was made at that time that we were going to invest the money into the property in order to bring it up to the standards of what we would build right now if we were to.”&nbsp;The new additions include a country kitchen, a therapy kitchen,&nbsp;courtyards, a movie theater, gathering spaces,&nbsp;and an expanded dining room. &nbsp;The interior of the building including floor and ceiling received work. It was also painted and finished. Exterior&nbsp;improvements were made to the windows and siding. &nbsp;Every aspect of the remodel is meant to emphasize a greater freedom when living in an assisted-living community, even in the corridors for example. &nbsp;“One of the best features about Legend is they really believe in the wide hallways and why that is, is because we want whether it's a family or a couple to be able to walk side-by-side,” Tiffany Kengari,&nbsp;Regional Sales Director and sitting administrator with Legend of Hutchinson, said.&nbsp;Legend hosts 118 apartments that are&nbsp;divided into assisted living, independent living, and memory care for those with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;Legend moved more of their&nbsp;apartments to assisted living and equipped their&nbsp;memory care unit with a larger activity space. &nbsp;“We have a studio and then we have a studio deluxe, which is just larger in space, and then we have what's known as an alcove deluxe,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “The alcove deluxe would be considered more what people are thinking of a standard one bedroom.” &nbsp;The therapy kitchen was converted from the former country kitchen. Residents are able to go in and maintain their cooking skills.&nbsp; A new country kitchen was created with the expansion. The dining room has been expanded and now features a private dining room where families can have a little bit more intimate meal if they would like.&nbsp;Legend of Hutchinson also features another full kitchen. &nbsp;They also have raised flower beds throughout the place for&nbsp;residents that like to grow&nbsp;vegetables that are then used in the kitchen.&nbsp;Additionally, there are life enrichment areas and an exercise room for activities. &nbsp;The memory care unit, or as Legend calls it, reflections,&nbsp;saw a complete remodel. &nbsp;“The memory care unit, we redid the whole thing,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “The dining room is new, we added a large life enrichment room for them, and then we added on to their patio and their courtyard out there, and then we are starting to redo the rooms back there.”&nbsp;“The thing about Legend, is you should never be able to tell the difference from assisted living to memory care. When you go, everything's the same,” Kengari&nbsp;added. “We set tables the same as it is in assisted living. Every program that's here [in assisted living], is back there, because what we have found throughout the years is normally memory care units are afterthoughts.” &nbsp;In many communities, memory care units are very isolated from the rest of the long-term care facility, and often never looks the same as the assisted-living units. &nbsp;“It looks more kind of forgotten,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “Once you enter a&nbsp;Legend community you should never be able to tell the difference between assisted living and what we call reflections.” &nbsp;Kengari said Legend Senior Living is known for their memory care and they work a lot with neuroplasticity to find new pathways to help people in reflections to continue to perform daily tasks. &nbsp;“We do a lot of our own training. All of our CNAs and CMAs that work in our reflections are certified dementia practitioners (CDP). We do put them through that extra training,” Kengari&nbsp;said. “We do use the best friends approach, and so they have to go through and learn the whole curriculum of what the best friends approach is.”&nbsp;Recently, the whole staff at every level throughout Legend Senior Living’s&nbsp;46 properties went through nine weeks of dementia training. &nbsp;Legend of Hutchinson also works closely with veteran organizations, such as American Legion, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Honor Flight. &nbsp;A big part of Legend’s&nbsp;setup is motivation, as at&nbsp;every corner there seems to be&nbsp;something for residents to continue their quality of living.&nbsp;“Our philosophy at Legend is that ‘idle minds idle hands,’” Kengari&nbsp;said. “Our whole purpose of what we do and why our design is, is to continue to keep you active and wanting to continue to learn and do things.”&nbsp;Legend Senior Living operates out of Wichita and has senior living communities in six states, including Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Texas, Florida, and Pennsylvania.&nbsp;On March 12 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Legend of Hutchinson will be having an open house to show off the remodel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Legend of Hutchinson is located at 2416 Brentwood. To RSVP to the open house call (620) 314-4707.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Legend of Hutchinson commemorates remodel

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;

3/11/2023 12:18 AM-Sean	Michael Gisick-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

3/10/2023 10:18 PM-William	Allen Gentry Jr.-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct

3/10/2023 8:13 PM-Audra	Lynn Legron-Viol protection order; Abuse order

3/10/2023 5:01 PM-Angela	Renee Dougherty-Probation Violation

3/10/2023 1:12 PM-Jordan	Nathanial Vargas-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;

3/10/2023 11:19 AM-Earnest	Lloyd Klotz-Failure to Appear

3/10/2023 3:51 AM-Maynor	Leonel Velasquez Avila-Probation Violation; DL Violation; No Drivers License

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;3/11/2023 12:18 AM-Sean	Michael Gisick-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv3/10/2023 10:18 PM-William	Allen Gentry Jr.-Disorderly Conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct3/10/2023 8:13 PM-Audra	Lynn Legron-Viol protection order; Abuse order3/10/2023 5:01 PM-Angela	Renee Dougherty-Probation Violation3/10/2023 1:12 PM-Jordan	Nathanial Vargas-Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv&nbsp;3/10/2023 11:19 AM-Earnest	Lloyd Klotz-Failure to Appear3/10/2023 3:51 AM-Maynor	Leonel Velasquez Avila-Probation Violation; DL Violation; No Drivers License

Daily Bookings 

HARVEY COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 1p.m. Friday in Harvey County. 

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Honda Accord driven by Lillyan Grace&nbsp;Koehn, 19, Wichita, was&nbsp; southbound on Kansas 15 just south of NW 60th Street.

The Honda left the roadway briefly to the right. The driver over corrected to the left and entered a broadside skid. 

When the Honda entered its lane, a northbound 2016 Ford Escape driven by Katherine Marie Unruh, 40, Newton, made an avoidance maneuver and left the roadway to the right. Both vehicles collided in the east ditch.

Koehn was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Unruh to Newton Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — One person is dead following a two-vehicle accident in northern Harvey County the afternoon of March 10.&nbsp;

Preliminary information shows a car was traveling southbound on K-15 between Northeast 48th and 60th streets when it crossed the center line into the northbound lane. An SUV, traveling north, attempted to maneuver to avoid the car. The SUV collided with the side of the car as they entered the east ditch.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the accident at 1:09 p.m.

The driver of the southbound car, a female in her teens, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver’s name has not been released pending notification of family.

The driver of the northbound SUV, a female in her 40s, was transported by EMS to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

There were no passengers in either vehicle.

The accident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678486807980.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 1p.m. Friday in Harvey County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Honda Accord driven by Lillyan Grace&nbsp;Koehn, 19, Wichita, was&nbsp; southbound on Kansas 15 just south of NW 60th Street.The Honda left the roadway briefly to the right. The driver over corrected to the left and entered a broadside skid. When the Honda entered its lane, a northbound 2016 Ford Escape driven by Katherine Marie Unruh, 40, Newton, made an avoidance maneuver and left the roadway to the right. Both vehicles collided in the east ditch.Koehn was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Unruh to Newton Medical Center. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.----------HARVEY COUNTY, Kan. — One person is dead following a two-vehicle accident in northern Harvey County the afternoon of March 10.&nbsp;Preliminary information shows a car was traveling southbound on K-15 between Northeast 48th and 60th streets when it crossed the center line into the northbound lane. An SUV, traveling north, attempted to maneuver to avoid the car. The SUV collided with the side of the car as they entered the east ditch.Emergency responders were dispatched to the accident at 1:09 p.m.The driver of the southbound car, a female in her teens, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver’s name has not been released pending notification of family.The driver of the northbound SUV, a female in her 40s, was transported by EMS to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries.There were no passengers in either vehicle.The accident remains under investigation.&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;

KHP IDs Kansas woman who died in Harvey Co. crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — USD 308 announced on March 10, Hutchinson High School senior, Morgan Hixson, has been named a National Merit Scholar Finalist for 2023. She is the only student to receive the honor in all of Reno County.&nbsp;

The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition recognizing academic excellence in high school students. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which dates back to 1955.

To be considered for this honor, Hixson took the 2021 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. 

She was among 16,000 Semifinalists across the country and has now moved on to Finalist status. 

According to the official National Merit Scholarship website, about half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

Hixson is an International Baccalaureate student at Hutchinson High School, and also participates in the music program. She also received a perfect score on her ACT.&nbsp;

In her time outside of class, Hixson enjoys dance and participating in musical productions.

After graduation, Hixson would like to attend a 4-year university and has her target set on an Ivy League school, especially Yale. 

She says the support of her parents and teachers has helped her achieve her goals and that she is excited to study medicine post-graduation.

<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/2023/3/1678478645179.jpeg" alt="Morgan Hixson is the only Reno County student be named a National Merit Scholar Finalist for 2023. [Submitted Photo: USD 308]&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Morgan Hixson is the only Reno County student be named a National Merit Scholar Finalist for 2023. [Submitted Photo: USD 308]&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — USD 308 announced on March 10, Hutchinson High School senior, Morgan Hixson, has been named a National Merit Scholar Finalist for 2023. She is the only student to receive the honor in all of Reno County.&nbsp;The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual competition recognizing academic excellence in high school students. The program is conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which dates back to 1955.To be considered for this honor, Hixson took the 2021 preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. She was among 16,000 Semifinalists across the country and has now moved on to Finalist status. According to the official National Merit Scholarship website, about half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.Hixson is an International Baccalaureate student at Hutchinson High School, and also participates in the music program. She also received a perfect score on her ACT.&nbsp;In her time outside of class, Hixson enjoys dance and participating in musical productions.After graduation, Hixson would like to attend a 4-year university and has her target set on an Ivy League school, especially Yale. She says the support of her parents and teachers has helped her achieve her goals and that she is excited to study medicine post-graduation.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hutchinson High School senior named National Merit Finalist

AUDIO: Full interviews below story.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday night's semifinal in Emporia between the Hutch High Salthawks and the Kapaun Crusaders has significant meaning beyond the court.

Salthawk head coach Bryan Miller graduated Hutch High in 1997 and coached with Steve Eck during the 2019-2020 season at Hutchinson Community College.

"Coach Eck means everything to me," Miller said. "He gave me an opportunity after I got let go at Butler."

The Dragons went 23-9 that season, then Miller took the head coaching job at Hutch High.

"I have so much respect for coach Eck and how he runs his program," Miller said. "The success he's had is unparalleled. He is one of the most generous people I have ever been around."

Miller said his year with Eck allowed him to see just how generous the Hall of Fame coach was every day.

Would Miller still be coaching today if Eck didn't give him that opportunity in 2019?

"Possibly not," Miller said. "I try not to think about those type of things, but possibly not. I'm the type of person to think that everybody has their own journey that they have to go through and everybody has their own plan, and God kind of took me down that path to bring me back home."

The role is special to Miller, the Salthawk alumnus played for another one of his mentors, Phil Anderson.

As an assistant, Anderson helped the 1994 Blue Dragon men capture the NJCAA championship. He then went to Hutch High and guided the Salthawks to the 2001 Class 6A state championship. The 2002 squad finished as the Class 6A state runner-up.

Anderson just finished his ninth season as an assistant for Blue Dragon women's basketball, so he also has ties to coach Eck.

"I don't know really who I'm rooting for, I'd have to say probably rooting for coach Miller since he was a player of mine," Anderson noted.

"I've known coach Miller since he was in high school, I had the good fortune of coaching him. We've become very close in a variety of ways," Anderson shared.

Anderson will be in attendance Friday night at White Auditorium in Emporia, a place he knows all-too-well.

"I was thinking this morning, it would be such a great atmosphere to see White Auditorium packed as it was back in 2001 when we played in the state championship game," Anderson said.

"Bryan is maximizing his talent 100 percent," Eck said. "They just play hard for him, they guard. I just hope we can get the ball across half court," Eck said. "They really play hard."

What kind of feelings will coach Eck have at the conclusion of this game?

"Same as always," Eck said. "I mean, everything's good."

Friday night's winner moves on to the 6:15 p.m. championship Saturday. The loser will play for third place at 2 p.m. The 4 P.M. semifinal in Emporia features Topeka-Highland Park (23-0) and Andover (21-2).

<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/2023/3/1678468784444.jpeg" alt="Bryan Miller celebrates the Class 5A sub-state championship. Photo by Sean Boston." />
 <figcaption>Bryan Miller celebrates the Class 5A sub-state championship. Photo by Sean Boston.</figcaption>
 </figure>DAREN DUNN Hutch PostAUDIO: Full interviews below story.HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Friday night's semifinal in Emporia between the Hutch High Salthawks and the Kapaun Crusaders has significant meaning beyond the court.Salthawk head coach Bryan Miller graduated Hutch High in 1997 and coached with Steve Eck during the 2019-2020 season at Hutchinson Community College."Coach Eck means everything to me," Miller said. "He gave me an opportunity after I got let go at Butler."The Dragons went 23-9 that season, then Miller took the head coaching job at Hutch High."I have so much respect for coach Eck and how he runs his program," Miller said. "The success he's had is unparalleled. He is one of the most generous people I have ever been around."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678468958704.jpeg" alt="Miller's Salthawks are 22-1 and will face the 22-1 Kapaun Crusaders Friday night at 8 in Emporia. Photo by Sean Boston." />
 <figcaption>Miller's Salthawks are 22-1 and will face the 22-1 Kapaun Crusaders Friday night at 8 in Emporia. Photo by Sean Boston.</figcaption>
 </figure>Miller said his year with Eck allowed him to see just how generous the Hall of Fame coach was every day.Would Miller still be coaching today if Eck didn't give him that opportunity in 2019?"Possibly not," Miller said. "I try not to think about those type of things, but possibly not. I'm the type of person to think that everybody has their own journey that they have to go through and everybody has their own plan, and God kind of took me down that path to bring me back home."The role is special to Miller, the Salthawk alumnus played for another one of his mentors, Phil Anderson.As an assistant, Anderson helped the 1994 Blue Dragon men capture the NJCAA championship. He then went to Hutch High and guided the Salthawks to the 2001 Class 6A state championship. The 2002 squad finished as the Class 6A state runner-up.Anderson just finished his ninth season as an assistant for Blue Dragon women's basketball, so he also has ties to coach Eck."I don't know really who I'm rooting for, I'd have to say probably rooting for coach Miller since he was a player of mine," Anderson noted."I've known coach Miller since he was in high school, I had the good fortune of coaching him. We've become very close in a variety of ways," Anderson shared.Anderson will be in attendance Friday night at White Auditorium in Emporia, a place he knows all-too-well."I was thinking this morning, it would be such a great atmosphere to see White Auditorium packed as it was back in 2001 when we played in the state championship game," Anderson said."Bryan is maximizing his talent 100 percent," Eck said. "They just play hard for him, they guard. I just hope we can get the ball across half court," Eck said. "They really play hard."What kind of feelings will coach Eck have at the conclusion of this game?"Same as always," Eck said. "I mean, everything's good."Friday night's winner moves on to the 6:15 p.m. championship Saturday. The loser will play for third place at 2 p.m. The 4 P.M. semifinal in Emporia features Topeka-Highland Park (23-0) and Andover (21-2).<div><iframe title="Bryan Miller on Steve Eck" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=h32jg-13b25f8-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Phil Anderson on Bryan Miller" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=zdqha-13b25fc-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><div><iframe title="Steve Eck on Bryan Miller" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=bj5is-13b2606-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><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;

🏀 Beyond the Court: Miller meets mentor in state semifinal

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Dare2tri executive director Keri Serota.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_mCgRqySF6Q" 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 Dare2tri executive director Keri Serota.

🎤 Forward Ever: Dare2tri executive director Keri Serota

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Jonathan Austin, DVM, with Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital said the weather fronts common in Kansas in the spring can bring out a concerning condition in dogs.

"We have some older pets who have a condition that creates a problem for them that's stimulated a little bit by barometric pressure," Austin said. "We see it more often when that happens. It affects their balance and their stability. They call it vestibular syndrome. It creates a nausea and a dizziness in the pet. It's an inner ear thing. It causes their eyes to move back and forth left to right and they will circle and they will be very nauseous and dizzy."

It is serious, but with treatment, it can be helped.

"A lot of the time, owners think it's a stroke," Austin said. "The dog just changes their behavior very rapidly. It just happens quickly overnight. You can have something really strange like that happen. The barometric pressure change can stimulate that. It causes them a lot of distress. They have to have treatment and be hospitalized."

Treatment is directed at the underlying cause, if one, like an ear infection, can be identified. Austin had a patient this week with the condition.

"It creates kind of a nerve inflammation, if you will," Austin said. "You treat it with a high dose of a steroid. Like I said, most of them will respond pretty nicely. This black lab dog has taken about two days, but now he's starting to eat again and starting to be able to move and not just circle."

The vestibular system is responsible for maintaining normal balance. The human condition most like this is vertigo.&nbsp;

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678463673512.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Jonathan Austin, DVM, with Hutchinson Small Animal Hospital said the weather fronts common in Kansas in the spring can bring out a concerning condition in dogs."We have some older pets who have a condition that creates a problem for them that's stimulated a little bit by barometric pressure," Austin said. "We see it more often when that happens. It affects their balance and their stability. They call it vestibular syndrome. It creates a nausea and a dizziness in the pet. It's an inner ear thing. It causes their eyes to move back and forth left to right and they will circle and they will be very nauseous and dizzy."It is serious, but with treatment, it can be helped."A lot of the time, owners think it's a stroke," Austin said. "The dog just changes their behavior very rapidly. It just happens quickly overnight. You can have something really strange like that happen. The barometric pressure change can stimulate that. It causes them a lot of distress. They have to have treatment and be hospitalized."Treatment is directed at the underlying cause, if one, like an ear infection, can be identified. Austin had a patient this week with the condition."It creates kind of a nerve inflammation, if you will," Austin said. "You treat it with a high dose of a steroid. Like I said, most of them will respond pretty nicely. This black lab dog has taken about two days, but now he's starting to eat again and starting to be able to move and not just circle."The vestibular system is responsible for maintaining normal balance. The human condition most like this is vertigo.&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Spring weather changes can reveal canine illness

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The unemployment rate in Reno County rose for the month of January 2023.

According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the jobless rate for the county rose five tenths of one percent to 3.2%. The jobless rate for the same period in 2022 was 2.7%.

There were 915 county residents out of work.&nbsp; This increase was prior to the announcements of layoffs at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and at Sunoco Paper.

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/Uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Jan2023%20SA%20Rate%20Chart%20File.pdf">statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate</a>&nbsp;of 2.9% in January. This is unchanged from 2.9% in December and an increase from 2.5% in January 2022.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,500 from December. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/Uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Jan2023%20SA%20PrivateEmpl%20Chart%20File.pdf">Private sector jobs</a>&nbsp;increased by 4,400 over the month, while government increased by 4,100.

Since January 2022&nbsp;Kansas'&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/Uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Jan2023%20Seasonally%20Adj%20PR%20Packet.pdf">seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs</a>&nbsp;have increased by 48,900. This change is due to an increase of 47,100 private sector jobs and an increase of 1,800 government jobs.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561209733269.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The unemployment rate in Reno County rose for the month of January 2023.According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the jobless rate for the county rose five tenths of one percent to 3.2%. The jobless rate for the same period in 2022 was 2.7%.There were 915 county residents out of work.&nbsp; This increase was prior to the announcements of layoffs at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and at Sunoco Paper.Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/Uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Jan2023%20SA%20Rate%20Chart%20File.pdf">statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate</a>&nbsp;of 2.9% in January. This is unchanged from 2.9% in December and an increase from 2.5% in January 2022.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,500 from December. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/Uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Jan2023%20SA%20PrivateEmpl%20Chart%20File.pdf">Private sector jobs</a>&nbsp;increased by 4,400 over the month, while government increased by 4,100.Since January 2022&nbsp;Kansas'&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/Uploads/Press%20Release/LR%20Jan2023%20Seasonally%20Adj%20PR%20Packet.pdf">seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs</a>&nbsp;have increased by 48,900. This change is due to an increase of 47,100 private sector jobs and an increase of 1,800 government jobs.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.

January unemployment numbers released

PRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Pretty Prairie USD 311 is a little more than two months away from voting again on a bond issue after one was defeated in September.

"It's just under $8 million, $7.7 million, it will be an 18 mill increase," said USD 311 Superintendent Ashley Anderson. "We are trying to do some secured entrances at all of the buildings. We're doing windows and roofs on all of the school buildings. Also, we're looking at ventilation issues in our science lab and our ag shop, as well as some electrical upgrades in both of those. The big ticket is remodeling our middle school gym to replace our current high school competition gym."

This is less expensive than the previous bond attempt.

"We went back to the drawing board this time to reduce that price tag," Anderson said. "We're using a lot more of our space, just remodeling it, which is cheaper than the new construction. That's how we've tried to save some money this time around."

The current gym has some deficiencies that the Board and Anderson agree need to be addressed.

"We have a restraining line," Anderson said. "We have a very narrow court and so we have a restraining line, but we also have concrete bleachers on both sides. We have concrete steps that are just inches from that restraining line. It's always just, every game, every night, you're just like, oh, please, no one fall into those or anything like that. There's some safety concerns. The other thing is, ADA compliance is a concern. We don't have anywhere for wheelchair bound fans to sit, handrails are another issue, you know, just things like that."

<a href="https://www.renogov.org/138/Elections">USD 311 patrons will vote on the bond on May 16</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/2022/9/1662516584762.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostPRETTY PRAIRIE, Kan. — Pretty Prairie USD 311 is a little more than two months away from voting again on a bond issue after one was defeated in September."It's just under $8 million, $7.7 million, it will be an 18 mill increase," said USD 311 Superintendent Ashley Anderson. "We are trying to do some secured entrances at all of the buildings. We're doing windows and roofs on all of the school buildings. Also, we're looking at ventilation issues in our science lab and our ag shop, as well as some electrical upgrades in both of those. The big ticket is remodeling our middle school gym to replace our current high school competition gym."This is less expensive than the previous bond attempt."We went back to the drawing board this time to reduce that price tag," Anderson said. "We're using a lot more of our space, just remodeling it, which is cheaper than the new construction. That's how we've tried to save some money this time around."The current gym has some deficiencies that the Board and Anderson agree need to be addressed."We have a restraining line," Anderson said. "We have a very narrow court and so we have a restraining line, but we also have concrete bleachers on both sides. We have concrete steps that are just inches from that restraining line. It's always just, every game, every night, you're just like, oh, please, no one fall into those or anything like that. There's some safety concerns. The other thing is, ADA compliance is a concern. We don't have anywhere for wheelchair bound fans to sit, handrails are another issue, you know, just things like that."<a href="https://www.renogov.org/138/Elections">USD 311 patrons will vote on the bond on May 16</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;

Choice to remodel gym key to USD 311 bond

Prepare 2023: Andover EF-3 Tornado Retrospective

RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff’s Office is requesting public help and information in at least two theft cases. &nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678425773152.jpeg" alt="One of the theft cases involves a stolen dirt bike. [PHOTO: Reno County Sheriff's Office]&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>One of the theft cases involves a stolen dirt bike. [PHOTO: Reno County Sheriff's Office]&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY, Kan. — The Reno County Sheriff’s Office is requesting public help and information in at least two theft cases. &nbsp;On March 7, at approximately 8 a.m., Reno County deputies were dispatched to a rural property on North Langdon Road close to the Reno/Rice County line for a burglary that occurred sometime overnight. &nbsp;Through investigation, it was discovered that approximately $50,000 to $60,000 worth of tools and miscellaneous equipment was stolen from several outbuildings. Among the items stolen were various Snap-On brand hand tools with the number “8” etched into them, as well as power tools, and four catalytic converters.&nbsp;On Feb. 28, deputies were dispatched to an address on West 17 Ave. just West of Hutchinson for a burglary that occurred sometime between Feb. 26 and Feb. 28. &nbsp;During the burglary a 1995 yellow Suzuki RM250 dirt bike with the number “41” on the handlebars was stolen.&nbsp;People with information are asked to&nbsp;contact the Reno County Sheriff’s Office at (620) 694-2735. Reference case number 2023-2216 for the March 7 theft and reference case number 2023-1912 for the dirt bike. &nbsp;Those preferring to stay anonymous, can call the Reno County Crime Stoppers at (620) 694-2666 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). They can also submit tips to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.P3tips.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR26tEGLbKywvDUjObqNQVNzNUt10gS6G96Cia6zNQeP1ggEV66WfI-6Wy4&amp;h=AT28RldbIgP9h0G_yHTS5HukvtJ41O71alhvsbwu3rNQo6KsfHpqAHbNPSmzaA50nMAqZrxVxB9YRBNrSpbPmB2fRv_1r1oruLHnDhqF8ansg40Kk4mrM2FvBffZ6p1f-VdTOPVZuoJ8R0U8nA&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT23rfljmuBO3SZgHC4f4erCcsS2CsAiGJBVYbeJPrtH7opPTvqa081k2GwTm8LIghBRGWc02yWtQhuGEL-dpH5n5JM0O2BpjzRYbGpV2WbFc64omm99bfAbyml80n8VaDH9EEpNFayd4wCYLPDMKqneQOgmPUPd0YUPHEQh_jEYLvI1lmqd7jRPMZtAZ9tFDVAcew" target="_blank">www.P3tips.com.</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;

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